Day 1. Arrival to Vilnius
Welcome to Vilnius! We are so excited to have you here. Once you arrive, we will be happy to meet you at the airport and provide a comfortable transfer to your 4-star hotel in the heart of the city. We hope you enjoy your stay in Vilnius and please don’t hesitate to let us know if there is anything we can do to make your trip even more enjoyable!
Day 2.
Our tour traces this historical journey, taking you through Jewish cemeteries, old settlements, central streets, Cathedral Square, Gediminas Hill, the Medieval Jewish quarter, and significant landmarks such as Vilna Gaon’s residence, City Hall Square, Gates of Dawn, Uzupis district, and the Taharat Hakodesh Synagogue. The journey spans from 1323 to the present day, offering a glimpse into Vilnius’s unique atmosphere and cultural heritage.
Day 3: Vilnius - Paneriai - Trakai - Vilnius
Having delved into Lithuanian history up to WWII yesterday, today we solemnly honor the victims of communal tragedy. We’ll visit the Big Ghetto, the courtyard of the “judenrat,” and learn about Jacob Gens. We’ll delve into the resistance against the Nazis, led by figures like Itzik Wittenberg and Aba Kovner, explore the Cheep Houses and the labor camp’s history, spotlighting Karl Plage. The day concludes with a visit to the Paneriai Holocaust Memorial.Transitioning to a different theme, we embark on a tour to Trakai, the ancient Lithuanian capital and residence of the Grand Dukes, located 28 km from Vilnius. Famous for its lakes and cultural heritage, Trakai features a 14th-century insular castle with a museum showcasing Lithuanian history and the lifestyles of different estates and ethnic groups. Additionally, we’ll visit the Karaites Museum, learning about this small ethnic group that has practiced Judaism since their migration from Crimea about 600 years ago.
Day 4. Tour to Kaunas
Departure for Kaunas, the interim capital of pre-war Lithuania. En route, we’ll make a stop at Zezmariai (Zhezhmer), once home to a remarkable Jewish community before the war, and view a surviving example of a wooden synagogue. Our journey continues with a visit to the country life open-air museum in Rumsiskes, offering insights into Lithuania’s 18th and 19th-century way of life, architecture, traditions, and crafts.Upon reaching Kaunas, our tour encompasses Slabodka, a Jewish settlement in the pre-war suburb of Kaunas and a WWII ghetto, along with a visit to the Old Jewish cemetery. Explore the Ninth Fort, a somber site where thousands of Jews from Lithuania and beyond met their tragic end.
Day 5: Vilnius – Moletai walking trip – Vilnius
Embark on a serene walking tour through the enchanting landscapes of Moletai, Lithuania, as you explore the trails winding through lush forests and along the shores of crystal-clear lakes. Take in the sounds of birdsong and the rustling leaves as you traverse paths that lead to picturesque spots by the lakes. Absorb the beauty of the surroundings, appreciating the serenity offered by the pristine lakes and verdant woodlands. After a morning of exploration, transition to the heart of Lithuanian culture with a traditional lunch at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Vilnius on your own
Discovering Vilnius in your leisure time can truly widen your horizons. Take a stroll around the charming Old Town and its narrow streets, explore the variety of galleries and museums, or simply immerse yourself in the local cuisine scene. Vilnius has something for everyone during their free time.
Day 7: Departure
Transfer to the Airport