Departure to Baltics
When I think about the picture of the summer idyll, I envision it in a Baltic way: pine trees, herbal iced tea, new books, grill by the lake and unmapped strolls in the downtown of Vilnius. Being Lithuanian means valuing summertime to the max since we only have a short span of summer breeze in our home country. So, the moment we catch the sun interlude – we soak in and treasure it.
Although I have lived abroad for more than a decade, the place I call home is where I speak my native language. Therefore, the last few summers I decided to treat myself with the departure(s) to the Baltics and immerse myself in Lithuanian joys.
Vilnius, the oldest medieval city in the world, the capital of Lithuania, is getting its well-deserved recognition in the European travel space. However, it remains the genuine gem with its truthful flow and and I am frankly satisfied about it.
As I enjoyed my time in Lithuania with the deepest takes, I’d like you to get a glimpse of what might catch your interest to hop on the next departure to the Baltics yourself.
CULTURE
National Art Gallery: showcasing modern Lithuanian artists in a minimalistic scenario. Get an iced sparkling water in the museum cafe and enjoy the view over the river, facing one of the highest TV towers in Europe.
Mo Museum: designed by Liebeskin architecture studio, it is one of the newest additions to the Lithuanian cultural scene. Combining contemporary art, tech and multidisciplinary curation, it is one of my favourite places for an art browse and music program.National theatre: not only a truly stunning facade of the building,but also the interior inside suspends the attention. The agenda combines contemporary dance, theatre, classical music and more. For me, it is the place for cultural encounters back home.
COFFEE
We have to speak about the coffee, of course.
Espresinė: the best coffee in Vilnius. Period. It gets really busy, so better to save your place on the bench early.
Kalve Roastery: originally from Latvia, this speciality coffee shop is a true design spot. Great place to do your mails, sip a cold brew and grab some beans for home.
Demoloftas: a true definition of a neighbour’s community, this cafe and restaurant takes coffee seriously. And their mindset definitely brings the appreciated results – it is excellent.
Crooked nose: no liquids to drink, but the best beans and coffee goods to grab. If you are passionate about coffee as much as I am, you might want to book a coffee workshop and deepen your knowledge.
AROUND THE TABLE
Panama Food Garden: for any occasion! Focused on world cuisine, it has truly delicious food and some Baltic specialities to feed your thirst. Moreover, the garden and greenhouse – a perfect set-up to wind down and enjoy the conversations around the table.
Tempo V39: a newly opened spot that serves small plates to share, natural wines and dangerous cocktails, plays jazz and soul fromthe vinyls. Sounds like a plan!
Desertu klubas: weekend destination for some treat – yourself sweets paired with the filter coffee or prosecco. A relaxed industrial setting makes it special to enjoy your cake and chat with the friendly staff about everything and nothing.
MOVE
If you are into unleashing your energy with the running pace, go for the riverside run towards Vingis park. A stunning view, a light breeze and some good-looking runners along the way!
My Pilates: a small disclosure… I got hooked with pilates in this studio two years ago and I continue to praise the quality, the studios’ design and attentive coaches as much as I can. Give it a try and thank me later for your new or extended passion.
This edition was developed in collaboration with Gintare Adomaityte a Lithuanian – Lisbon based cultural relations and communication consultant, who leads the projects in the intersection of music, fashion, design and art.
Her project ranges from Moncler, Prada, On, 032c to Billie Eilish, FKA twigs and Sonar Festival.
