population: 0.54 million

extension: 401.0 square kilometers

Museums

Great! Vilnius has several museums worth visiting, including the National Museum of Lithuania, the Museum of Genocide Victims, and the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. If you're interested in art, I suggest checking out the MO Museum or the Contemporary Art Centre. For similar types of museums nearby, you can visit the Open-Air Museum of Lithuania or the Rumsiskes Ethnographic Museum, both located within a reasonable driving distance from Vilnius.

Food

Sure! Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Vilnius, Lithuania include:

1. Cepelinai: A traditional Lithuanian dish made from grated potatoes stuffed with minced meat or cottage cheese, and served with sour cream and bacon bits.

2. Kugelis: A potato pudding that is typically served with bacon, sour cream, and lingonberry jam.

3. Saltibarsciai: A cold beet soup that is usually served during summer months and often accompanied by boiled potatoes and dill.

4. Vedarai: A type of sausage made from grated potatoes and stuffed with meat or other fillings, typically served with mustard.

5. Zemaiciu blynai: Thin pancakes made from a mixture of potatoes and wheat flour, usually served with sour cream and a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, meat, or cottage cheese.

These dishes are considered staples of Lithuanian cuisine and are beloved by locals.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals in Vilnius enjoy:

1. Explore Užupis: This bohemian neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Vilnius. It's filled with street art, galleries, and cafes, and it even has its own constitution.

2. Try traditional Lithuanian food: Head to the Old Town to sample local dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings stuffed with meat), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and kugelis (potato pudding).

3. Take a hot air balloon ride: Vilnius is one of the few cities in the world where you can take a hot air balloon ride over the city. It's a unique and memorable way to see the sights.

4. Visit the Green Lakes: Just a short drive from Vilnius, the Green Lakes are a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and picnicking during the summer months.

5. Attend a festival or event: Vilnius has a lively cultural scene, and there are often festivals, concerts, and other events happening throughout the year. Check out what's on during your visit and join in the fun.