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National Museum of Lithuania

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National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)

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The National Museum of Lithuania is the most significant and oldest institution dedicated to the preservation of the nation's historical and cultural heritage. Its origins date back to 1855, making it the oldest museum establishment in the country. The impressive main exhibitions are housed in the building known as the New Arsenal, located at the foot of Gediminas Castle Hill in the historical center of Vilnius. The museum's vast collections encompass more than one million artifacts, which are meticulously organized into various thematic sections. Visitors can wander through comprehensive exhibitions that focus on Lithuanian archaeology, medieval numismatics, traditional ethnography, and the turbulent political history spanning from the foundation of the Grand Duchy to the national rebirth. The National Museum provides an extensive and profound insight into the identity and customs of the Lithuanian people, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the country's roots.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

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Avg °C-7-6-16131619181361-4
Rain mm5243444774771028354685654

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The National Museum of Lithuania is an indoor museum in the New Arsenal building at Cathedral Square, visitable with a ticket. The archaeological and historical exhibitions are extensive, spread over multiple floors.
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Typical hours
Typical opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, on some days until 18:00. Monday and Tuesday are usually closed; exact times should be checked on the website.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the permanent exhibitions. In temporary exhibitions, photography may be restricted - please observe the notices at the entrance.
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Time needed
A thorough tour through all exhibition rooms takes about two to three hours. Those interested in specific topics like the Middle Ages should allow at least three hours.
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Combine with
The museum is located at Cathedral Square, so it pairs naturally with the cathedral and bell tower. Gediminas Tower and the old town are also just a few minutes away.
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Getting there
The museum is in central Vilnius, within walking distance from the station and most attractions. Parking is available in surrounding garages, and public transport stops at Cathedral Square.
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Insider tip
Visit the museum on the first Wednesday of the month, as entry is often free then (subject to current policy). Allow enough time for the archaeology museum in the basement, which is particularly impressive.

Geography

Coordinates
54.68790, 25.28910

Facts

  • Established in 1855
  • Located in the New Arsenal of Vilnius Castle
  • Collection of over 1 million items
  • Focuses on Lithuanian ethnography

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Akropolis VilniusAkropolis Vilnius3 km · NWExplore →
Pavilniai Regional ParkPavilniai Regional Park4 km · EExplore →
Vilnius TV TowerVilnius TV Tower5 km · WExplore →
Rokantiškės HillRokantiškės Hill6 km · EExplore →
Verkių Regional ParkVerkių Regional Park7 km · NExplore →
Thermo Fisher Scientific VilniusThermo Fisher Scientific Vilnius8 km · NExplore →
Vilnius University Botanical GardenVilnius University Botanical Garden9 km · NEExplore →

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Sights in the town National Museum of Lithuania (10)

National Museum of Lithuania🏛 museum

Museum in Vilnius, Lithuania, covering Lithuanian history and culture.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-18:00♿💶

foundation of the former church of St. Anne and St. Barbara

Catholic church building in Belarus, only foundation remains.

Castellan's House🏛 museum

Museum in Vilnius, a historic building.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-18:00♿💶

Tiškevičių rūmai

Residence of Klementina Tiškevičienė, built 1884-1888. Housed a science and art museum from 1907-1914.

The Old Arsenal🏛 museum

Museum in Vilnius, a former arsenal.

King Mindaugas Bridge

Bridge in Vilnius, Lithuania, spanning the Neris River.

Gediminas Tower

Viewpoint tower on Gediminas Hill in Vilnius.

Vilnius Upper Castle

Castle in Vilnius, Lithuania, a historic fortification.

Gediminas Hill

Hill in Vilnius, Lithuania, site of Gediminas Castle.

Southern Tower

Ruins of a southern tower of the former castle.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you see at the National Museum?
Exhibits related to the history, archaeology, and folk art of Lithuania.
Where is the main building located?
At the foot of Gediminas Hill in Vilnius (Arsenalo g. 1).
What are the opening hours?
Generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; often closed on Mondays.
Are there combined tickets?
Yes, there are tickets valid for multiple branches of the museum.
Is the museum accessible?
The main building is largely accessible for wheelchair users.
National Museum of Lithuania: where is it located?
National Museum of Lithuania is located in Lithuania.
National Museum of Lithuania: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Museum of Lithuania, foundation of the former church of St. Anne and St. Barbara, Castellan's House.
National Museum of Lithuania: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
National Museum of Lithuania: why is it worth visiting?
The National Museum of Lithuania is the most significant and oldest institution dedicated to the preservation of the nation's historical and cultural heritage.
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Utena — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Kėdainiai Old Town — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Kėdainiai — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Ukmergė area — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Elektrėnai — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Grigiškės — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Anykščiai — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Trakų Vokė — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Trakų Vokė is located in the suburban area of Vilnius.
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Lentvaris
Lentvaris is an industrial city near Vilnius and Trakai.
Garliava — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Garliava is a growing city located immediately south of Kaunas.
Kaišiadorys — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
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Kaišiadorys is an important railway junction between Vilnius and Kaunas.

History & landmarks

Vilnius Old Town — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval town centers in Northern Europe.
Kaunas Town Hall — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
Kaunas Town Hall
The Town Hall in the main square of Kaunas is often called the 'White Swan' due to its elegant shape and white facade.
Vilnius Town Hall — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
Vilnius Town Hall
A Neoclassical landmark in the heart of the Old Town, designed by Laurynas Gucevičius.
Merkinė — National Museum of Lithuania (Lithuania)
Merkinė
A historic settlement at the confluence of the Nemunas and Merkys rivers, famous for its massive hillfort.