An Underrated Capital City in Europe: Vilnius, Lithuania

Places:

• Three Cross Monument - Overlooks the Old Town and provides breathtaking views of the city. Take the time to walk to the top and enjoy the peace and beauty of the forest path.

• Gediminas' Hill and Castle Tower - A 15th century castle that overlooks the Old Town. Walking up to the top is free but if you do not like steep steps, you can take a funicular to the top.

• Old Town - A UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque architecture and historic landmarks. I recommend just walking the streets and getting lost as there are lots of local shops and cafes nestled through the cobblestone streets.

• Gates of Dawn - Features a revered painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy and hosts a chapel at the on the upper floor.

Museums:

• Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights - Former KGB headquarters and prison. Learn about the Lithuanian struggle during the rule of the Soviet Union.

• Lukiškės Prison - Prison turned gallery. Ability to see works of art from local artist and also learn about the builds 115-year history as a prison.

• Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania- Former place of the Grand Duke of Lithuania. Now home to art and the National Museum of Lithuania where you can learn about the history of this great nation.

Parks:

• Bernardine Garden - Situated right in the heart of Vilnius. Quiet garden that is great for taking a stroll and seeing the beauty of the medieval city.

Spa:

• Bokšto Spa - Day spa that will leave you refreshed and ready to take on the adventures of Vilnius.

Day trips:

Located 30 minutes outside Vilnius, Trakai is a picturesque town that surrounds Trakai Island Castle (a 14th-century fortress in the middle of Lake Galvė). Plenty of small shops and local restaurants to fill your day. Best way to see the town is to take a hot air balloon ride over it. Once you do, you will feel like you're in a Studio Ghibli movie.

• Київ: Ukrainian food; great home cooking that keeps you full and warm. Especially on a cold rainy day.

• BISTRO 18: French food; great three-course lunch special that will leave you filled and happy.

• Fiorentino: Italian food; small Italian restaurant that makes you feel like grandma is in the back cooking. Food is filled with flavor and not light on portion size.

• Gloria: French culinary influence; off the beaten path and nestled away. Offers creative dishes and a seasonal menu that is fresh and filled with flavor.

• Sakai Ramen: Probably the best ramen I have ever had. Cozy restaurant that seats maybe 10 people and provides the most flavorful ramen.

• Nineteen18: One of Lithuania's first Michelin-starred restaurants that provides innovative locally inspired food.

• Rotonda: Located in Bernardinų parkas and a great spot to grab a lunch. Fresh food with a fun vibe. Great place to get an afternoon drink in the summer.

• Kitchen Coffee Vilnius: A great coffee spot located down a quiet street off the main path.

• Nomads Cocktail Bar: Creative cocktails from world class bartenders.

• Etno Dvaras: Lithuanian food through and through.