Vilnius is known for its Christmas tree. Every year Cathedral Square gets a new, tall tree design made of thousands of lights, and the lighting evening draws crowds from all over Lithuania. Around it stands the city’s Christmas market, with the white Cathedral and its bell tower as the backdrop.
Dates 2026
According to Go Vilnius, the city tourism office, the Christmas tree on Cathedral Square is lit on 28 November 2026, and the Christmas market there runs from 28 November to 27 December 2026. Daily opening hours are announced closer to the date.
How long from Riga to Vilnius?
Riga to Vilnius is about 294 km, around three and a half hours by car without stops, through Bauska and Panevėžys. In winter allow a little more time for the weather.
Ways to go with a driver
1. Direct transfer. From your address in Riga to your hotel in Vilnius, without stops. From €345 for a car with up to three passengers, one way, for the whole car.
2. A day trip with stops. The best sights are almost on the route: Bauska Castle, Rundāle Palace, the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai, and Trakai Island Castle just before Vilnius. Arrive in Vilnius as the tree lights come on. From €415 per car.
3. Stay a night. Most guests spend one or two nights in Vilnius and return to Riga at the same price. The Old Town of Vilnius is a UNESCO World Heritage site and worth more than an evening.
Tips
- Come at dusk to see the tree being lit up; December evenings start early.
- Dress warmly: Vilnius in December is often below zero.
- Lithuania uses the euro, as Latvia does.
- Combine it with the markets in Riga and Tallinn for a Baltic Christmas: Riga Christmas market and Tallinn Christmas market.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Vilnius Christmas tree lit in 2026?
On 28 November 2026 on Cathedral Square, when the Christmas market also opens.
How long does it take from Riga to Vilnius by car?
About three and a half hours for some 294 km without stops.
How much is a private transfer from Riga to Vilnius?
From €345 one way for a car with up to three passengers. A day trip with stops starts from €415.
What can I see on the way?
Bauska Castle, Rundāle Palace, the Hill of Crosses and Trakai Island Castle are all close to the route.
Dates checked in November 2026 against Go Vilnius. They can change, so check before you travel.