Vilnius, the second-largest city in the Baltic states, has earned the title of 'Capital of Christmas' from the European Parliament's Christmas Cities Network. The Lithuanian city is renowned for its elaborate decorations, with twinkling lights, baubles, and Christmas trees lining every street. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine from stalls while buskers play festive songs, creating a magical atmosphere.
The city's main Christmas market is located in Cathedral Square, part of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The centrepiece is a 20-metre-high, 205-square-metre Christmas tree that has been ranked first by European Best Destinations for two consecutive years. The market features wooden stalls selling sweet treats, mulled wine (€7, with a €2 refund on returned mugs), and festive crafts. Local delicacies include 'kaladinis' chimney cakes, sweet curd donuts, and gingerbread.
Beyond the main market, Vilnius hosts ten different Christmas markets across the city, including a unique one at Lukiškių prison. The city even has its own Christmas currency—red pine cones—launched by the national bank. A two-storey, 10-metre-high Christmas carousel, crafted by Italian artisans, adds to the festive charm.
Vilnius is easily accessible from London City airport, with return flights from £33. The city boasts a rich history, over 50 churches, underground spas, museums, and an arts quarter. Parts of Netflix's Stranger Things series four were filmed there, including in the now-closed 100-year-old prison. Traditional Lithuanian cuisine can be sampled at Lokys, the oldest family-run restaurant, which serves dishes such as bright pink cold beetroot soup and beaver stew.
The Christmas market runs from 29 November to 6 January, with other markets at the train station, Hale Market, and Lukiškių prison.
