This beautiful European capital is said to be dirt cheap and absolutely stunning
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This Eastern European capital has quickly become a popular tourist destination for many Irish holidaymakers seeking an affordable and unique European getaway.
The Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, is at the top of the list of trending, must-visit destinations, according to KAYAK’s Summer Savings 2025 Report, and a top destination for Irish tourists.
The travel company found a 105% increase in flight searches compared to last year, with flights from Dublin as cheap as €22 in August, according to Skyscanner.
Why Vilnius is the perfect summer destination
Vilnius’s appeal lies in its combination of low costs and rich cultural experiences.
A typical two-night stay costs approximately €275,44, including meals, drinks, sightseeing, and transport. This translates to about €138 per person.
According to the report, costs in Vilnius are over 10% lower than those in the runner-up capital, Lisbon. Additionally, it was also less than half that of 18 other cities.
And not to forget, a pint of domestic beer in Vilnius will set you back between 3 and 5 euros, according to financial tech firm Wise.
Some would argue the price of that pint alone is reason enough to hop on a flight to Lithuania’s capital, especially compared to a €10 pint in central Dublin.
Vilnius is also believed to be one of the greenest cities in Europe, hence why spring and summer are the perfect time to plan a visit. Make sure to visit Vilnius University Botanical Garden in Kairėnai, where you can admire hundreds of brightly coloured rhododendrons.
A Vilnius local told the Daily Express: “I have lived in Vilnius for most of my life, except for a couple of years in the UK, and yet every spring in this city, filled with blooming flowers and abundant green spaces, takes my breath away.
“If you visit Vilnius during the warm season, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life. The city is compact and uncrowded, offering a perfect balance of a historically rich and beautiful Old Town, quality culture, exciting events, great coffee shops and places to grab a drink, and plenty of green areas for relaxation or active pursuits.
“Could anything be more Lithuanian than taking a refreshing evening swim in one of the many forested lakes around Vilnius on a hot summer day?”
However, she did add, “I think tourists shouldn’t enter Vilnius in winter. It’s dark, cold, and everyone is at home.”
Just a short walk from Vilnius Old Town, you’ll stumble upon Vingis Park, a 162-hectare serene forested park ideal for walking, cycling, roller-skating or even outdoor concerts of famous artists, including Björk or Elton John.
The trending city offers a vibrant cultural scene.
The UNESCO-listed Old Town features baroque architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and landmarks such as the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral.
Last but not least, the bohemian Užupis district, known for its artistic community and self-declared independence, adds to the city’s free-spirited charm.
