Experience in Vilnius, Lithuania by Ausra

What is it like to live in Vilnius? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Vilnius, first of all, is the capital of Lithuania, so it means the biggest city, lots of people, lots of students and also international ones. Vilnius city centre is really cozy with small streets in it. Lots of nice cafes and restaurants to have meal or grab morning coffee. There are lots of historical places to visit, such as, Gediminas castle, Lord palace, Pilies street and so on. Also, lots of different types of spending night life there. There are different kind of bars, clubs, it is up to person's needs.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Vilnius?

As I mentioned before, the night life is really nice in Vilnius. Lots of different kind of music bars, pubs and clubs. Lots of international people as well. So, there is no need to worry, you are not alone there.

How much does it cost to live in Vilnius?

Well, it depends. In my case, I am still living with my parents, but for flat near the city centre you would probably pay 200€/month. Food and public transport is cheap comparing to other EU countries. For example, you can easily have a meal with 5e, glass of beer- 2-3e.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Vilnius? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not difficult if you rent it in advance (especially before September). Try to find an accommodation near city centre or the place where your university/internship is.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

All dishes are mainly from potatoes. Cepelinas- a big potato dumpling with the meat inside. Kugelis - again a pie made of potatoes. Bulviniai blynai- potato pancakes. Moreover, you would like to try our famous "pink soup". And for desert try to find "Šakotis" (cake made of butter, egg whites and yolks, flour, sugar, and cream, cooked on a rotating spit in an oven or over an open fire) or "Tinginys" (typical dessert made of biscuits or crackers, cocoa, butter, sugar and solidified milk).

Tinginys

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What places would you recommend visiting in Vilnius?

Gediminas castle, Cathedral, Pilies street, Lord palace, Užupis. Moreover, there are lots of beautiful parks in the city centre just to chill out. In addition, near Vilnius, there is town called Trakai. You have to go there at least once and eat traditional meal of this town -kibinai (pastry made of meat and onions).

Is it good to eat out in Vilnius? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It depends of what kind of cuisine you wanna try:

• Lithuanian kitchen: Lokys, Šturmų švyturys (always fresh fish).
• French kitchen: Balzakas, Rene.
• Chinese/Japanese kitchen: Rytai, Kinų rožė, Soya.
• Cheap: Express Pica, Wolk to Walk.

Is the nightlife good in Vilnius? Where is good to go?

Very good.

• Bars: Gringo, RePublic, Alchemikas, Berlin, Studio 9.
• Clubs: Exit, Mojo lounge, Cash, Mojitos.

What advice would you give future students heading to Vilnius?

Have fun! And do not worry, in Vilnius, most all people speak English and they will help you no matter what!

Trakai

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