Vilna, Lituania

Day 2 - Vilnius Breakfast included.  Meet the guide to explore Vilnius’ historic old town.  On this tour you’ll stroll through the narrow streets of old town,, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the former Jewish quarter, St. Anne's church, Užupis, as well as some hidden surprises along the way.  This tour not only gives you the history of the more than 700 years of the city but also tales of its life  through the eyes of a local.

After a short break for lunch you’ll head to one of the city’s most infamous locations, the Lukiškės Prison where for 115 years it was guarded by high walls and barbed wire, but today the site is open to the public as a repurposed arts & entertainment spot for exhibitions, concerts and more. This unique space (which was the filming location for the Soviet prison scenes in Stranger Things season 4) was where the most notorious of criminals would be sent from murderers & other violent criminals to religious & political dissidents and others deemed “threats” by the Soviet authorities including pro-independence Lithuanians.  During this fascinating tour you’ll learn the stories of the prison, see the cells, including the Orthodox cathedral inside the prison.  After you can enjoy a drink at one of the several bars now built inside the prison courtyard.

Free evening.

Day 3 - Vilnius Breakfast included.   This morning you’ll visit the building that once housed the Gestapo headquarters during the Nazi occupation, and then the KGB headquarters during the subsequent Soviet occupation.  Now a museum, it documents the loss of independence in the mid-20th century, the repressions carried out by the Soviet government, and the people’s struggle to regain their independence. You’ll see the former KGB internal prison and cells, and see the stories of the suffering of the people imprisoned here and their struggle not to lose their human dignity, faith and hope.

This afternoon you’ll meet the guide to embark on a culinary adventure in Vilnius, where centuries-old food traditions continue with modern day interpretations.  You’ll explore the rich tapestry of the Lithuanian menu: influenced by various nations, historical nuances and what is available from the Baltic Sea to the inner farmlands & forests.   You’ll be surprised to find that this country’s culinary delights extend much further than just potato or meat dishes.  On this tour you’ll have the opportunity to sample various Lithuanian delicacies as well as try several  traditional naturally infused spirits (for palate cleansing), with the flavors you’ve likely never tried before (non-alcoholic options also available).. 

Free evening.

Day 4 - Vilnius Breakfast included.  Free day and departure on your own (if you have a later departure you can leave your bags with reception).