In recent years, the Baltic States have been on the radar, especially for those who’ve traversed through much of Scandinavia and Central Europe. Lithuania’s capital is a wonderful preface, a quieter debut as you gear up for both Riga and Tallinn.

Out of the three major cities in the Baltic States, Vilnius was, by far, my favorite. Strolling through its reticent Old Town or shopping for nuts and fruits as Halle Market was about to close, reminded me of a decade ago’s Budapest. Before hefty groups of tour buses took over hushed streets, peppered by locals going about their everyday lives.

There’s much to do in Vilnius for a simple, romantic weekend getaway. Keep in mind that the city is full of students under the age of 25, but this means a colorful nightlife and youthful energy which juxtaposes a tragic past. Lithuania’s history may be dark, but its capital city is certainly worth a visit, as a charming introduction to your own story in the Baltics.

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The Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum was established in 1989, it honors and preserves Lithuanian Jewish history and culture. In 1997, the museum was renamed in remembrance of Talmudic scholar, Vilna Gaon. Vilnius itself has a limited number of museums, which provides even more reasons to visit this one since it not only displays copious artwork, it also includes historical artifacts and extensive information regarding Jewish community in Lithuania throughout history.

One of the best places to shop for groceries and local produce in Vilnius is certainly the Halle Market, or Halės Turgus, located in Old Town. It is the oldest and largest market in Vilnius, originally constructed in 1906 by architect Vaclovas Michnevicius. The 8,400 square meter indoor space is home to fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese stands, cured meats, bakeries…and much more. The marketplace is the hub of its own butchery, and abundant organic products, making it one of the best places to learn about Lithuanian food culture.

One of the must-see sights in Vilnius has to be the Gate of Dawn, built as a defensive fortification from 1503-1522. The gate is embellished with religious artifacts meant to protect the city and travelers from attacks. Here, the Chapel features The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, believed to have magical powers hence this has become a stop for hundreds and thousands of pilgrimages throughout centuries.

For a fun experience you can enjoy with the kids or on your own, the Vilnius Museum of Illusions is full of interactive surprises. There’s a 2D café, numerous fascinating and educational displays that showcase colorful art, physics and creativity. You can also opt for a personal guide (at free of charge) to accompany and explain each station throughout the entire museum.

Located in the former KGB building, the multi-floor Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights remembers five decades of Soviet’s occupation of Lithuania. Inside, there are various artifacts that depict anti-Soviet Lithuanian partisans as well as victims of imprisonment, deportations and executions. The walls outside are dedicated to the names of victims killed during the occupation. The execution room in the basement explains where prisoners died then buried in graveyards located outside the city of Vilnius.

In addition to Town Hall Square, the Cathedral Square in Vilnius Old Town is one of the main plazas that features city fairs, parades and major activities. Here, you’ll see the beautiful Vilnius Cathedral and an iconic Bell Tower which has become an emblem of Lithuania’s capital.

You can find Literatų gatvė, or Literary Street, charmingly tucked in a curvy alley inside Old Town. It is dedicated to famous writers and poets throughout Lithuania’s artistic history. There are decorative plaques and plates that you can admire up close. The name of the alley refers to several bookstores and printing houses situated on the same street where Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz once lived during the early 1800s.

Užupis, or the Republic of Užupis, is similar to Christiania in Copenhagen – an independent republic within a capital city of a country. True to its name, Užupis means “the other side of the river,” and it can be discovered on the other side of the Vilnia River where most of the Jewish population living in this neighborhood were completely killed during the Holocaust. Afterwards, the abandoned houses were occupied by prostitutes and the homeless.

During the Soviet’s occupation of Lithuania, this area became the hub of bohemians and artists. In 1997, Užupis officially became an independent republic ruled by its own laws and constitution. Today, it is worth a whole day of visit. The neighborhood boasts cute cafés, artist studios, concept stores and cool bars.