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Gate of Dawn (Ausros Vartai) Tours and Activities

Vilnius’s medieval defensive walls originally had nine entry gates, all built in the early 16th century; as was custom then, each was decorated with a portrait of the Virgin Mary to ensure the protection of the city. Today only remnants of these walls still stand after the Russian attacks of 1799, and the whitewashed Gate of Dawn (Aušros Vartai), completed in 1522 with an ornate pediment, is the last remaining of the original fortified city entrances.
Around 1630, Carmelite monks from a nearby monastery replaced the original image on the Gate of Dawn with a new icon named the ‘Vilnius Madonna’, painted on oak boards and widely believed in both Catholic and Orthodox faiths to have mystical healing powers. The Renaissance-style, pastel-blue-and-white Chapel of Our Lady of the Dawn was grafted on to the southern side of Gate of Dawn around 1706 to house the painting, which became one of Lithuania’s most revered icons.
Today it is encrusted in gold and silver and its pretty little chapel is adorned with silver votives donated by pilgrims. Masses are held in both Polish and Lithuanian and on holy days the streets around the chapel are brought to a standstill as worshipers flock to pray in front of the icon.
Practical Info
The Gate of Dawn is open daily from 6 a.m until 7 p.m.
Address: Aušros Vartų gatvė 14, Vilnius 01303, Lithuania
Hours: Daily 6am-7pm
14 Tours and Activities to Experience Gate of Dawn (Ausros Vartai)
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
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Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
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Three Capitals of Lithuania Trakai Kernave Vilnius
3
Explore the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, the archaeological site of Kernave, and the historic city of Trakai on this full-day tour from Vilnius. After taking in the highlights of Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town, continue to see the ancient hill forts of Kernave, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, visit the island castle of Trakai, set sail on a cruise around the lake (optional), and tuck into a traditional Lithuanian lunch at a local restaurant (own expense).
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From
US$193.78
per group
From
US$193.78
per group

Full-Day Vilnius City Tour and Trakai Castle from Vilnius
8
Discover the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius and the medieval Trakai Castle—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—on this full-day tour. See the Gate of Dawn, St Anne’s Church, and Cathedral Square on a guided tour of Vilnius; visit the Paneriai memorial Museum; and explore the fairy-tale castle of Trakai, on the shores of Lake Galvė.
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From
US$173.19
Price varies by group size
From
US$173.19
Price varies by group size

Private Vilnius Old Town Walking Tour
2
Discover baroque architecture and medieval heritage in Lithuania on this private 2.5-hour Vilnius Old Town walking tour. Follow a private guide through Vilnius’ historic Old Town, and gain insight into the city’s rich history and heritage. Admire bold architecture and pretty streets, and mingle with the locals going about their day. Along the way, discover top city attractions and famous landmarks including the Church of St Francis and St Bernard, Gediminas' Tower, the Presidential Palace and Vilnius Cathedral, and admire fine city views from Castle Hill and Subacius Hill.
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From
US$63.40
Price varies by group size
From
US$63.40
Price varies by group size

Highlights of Vilnius - Short City Bike Tour
26
Explore the Lithuanian capital on two wheels on this 3-hour Vilnius city bike tour. Hop onto your bike and spin through Vilnius’ historic Old Town as a guide sheds light on the city’s colorful history. Delve into the UNESCO–listed Republic of Užupis — popular among local artists — and discover top local attractions including the 16th-century Wall of Vilnius, and the Church of St Francis and St Bernard. Along the way, watch locals chatting in busy cafes, head through bustling squares and see a side of the city many visitors miss.
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From
US$24.22
Price varies by group size
From
US$24.22
Price varies by group size

Vilnius Guided Ghost Walking Tour
86
See an unusual side of Vilnius on a ghost walking tour. Learn about the city’s dark secrets and superstitions from your guide as you wander the dim-lit streets of Old Town. Visit Vilnius Satan House and Kingdom of Death and spot eerie church frescoes. Take a shot of “Devil’s drink” as you explore the city.
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From
US$14.53
From
US$14.53
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
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Small-Group Vilnius Half Day City Tour
2
Discover baroque architecture and medieval history in Lithuania’s capital on this 3-hour small-group Vilnius city tour. Follow a guide along Vilnius’ pretty streets and discover top attractions including the Bernardine Church and Monastery, the Church of St Anne, Cathedral Square, the Presidential Palace and Vilnius University. Stroll along Gediminas Avenue, soak up the atmosphere in the UNESCO–listed Old Town and enjoy panoramic views over the rooftops from Subačius Hill. Along the way, gain insight into Vilnius’ culture and heritage, and learn what makes the city tick.
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From
US$90.84
Price varies by group size
From
US$90.84
Price varies by group size

2-Hour Segway Tours in Vilnius
1
Cover tons of ground in a short amount of time on this Segway tour of Vilnius. Meet up with your guide and group to learn how to operate your 2-wheeled, electric, self-balancing scooter; you'll get the hang of it in no time and head out through the city. Zoom over the cobblestone streets of Old Town and around other city highlights, choosing from three routes. As you travel, listen to your guide's commentary to learn about Vilnius' history and culture.
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From
US$55.91
From
US$55.91

Vilnius - City of Contrasts - The Original City Tour by bicycle (bike+food tour)
6
Discover the best that Vilnius has to offer during this half-day bike tour around the city. Visit the Old Town, the more modern business district, a Soviet-era neighborhood, and one of the city’s more beautiful residential areas as you pedal around the city. Discover the city’s unique history and culture from your informative guide and get insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and have fun.
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From
US$31.07
Price varies by group size
From
US$31.07
Price varies by group size

Private City Tour of Vilnius
1
Get a fuller experience of Vilnius' heritage and culture than possible on a group tour on this private walking tour. In the company of just your party, embark on the tour at a time of your choosing and see the sites that interest you the most, such as Cathedral Square, Gediminas Avenue, and the Jewish Quarter.
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From
US$161.49
From
US$161.49

Discover Vilnius on Private Tour and Enjoy Superb Views of Gediminas Castle Hill
Make the most of your visit to Vilnius. Discover the medieval heart of Vilnius on a comprehensive old town walking tour taking you to the superb views of the Gediminas Castle Hill. Highly professional private tour guides and fast-track admission to museums will make your trip to Vilnius a truly memorable one!
• Guaranteed skip-the-line entrance
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From
US$216.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$216.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Historical Walk through Vilnius with a Local
This Experience is provided by a private Local.
Discover the historical side of Vilnius with a passionate local who wants to share all the historical and fun facts about Vilnius.
Our excursion will start by the Vilnius City Hall, and take us on a stroll right into the heart of historical Vilnius! Learn about how the city has grown and changed over time. From seeing the historical old town and amazing waterside vistas to discovering the history behind the Vilnius Palace as well as learning the story of the saved elm trees at Kungsträdgården, discover unique sites that an ordinary tourist tour won’t show you!
We always knew travelling was the best way of learning, but having a knowledgeable Local by your side to give you insider tips and share local secrets is even better!
Of course, if you want to learn about something in particular or have a special interest, just let me know, and I will adjust the itinerary for you!
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From
US$73.30
From
US$73.30

Vilnius Walking Tour Old Town and Uzupis in English or Norwegian
2
During this excursion we will walk in Vilnius Old Town, Castles territory, Uzupis- which is considered as bohemian district of the city, amber gallery. You will see also many hidden places as courtyards and the places you would not find on your own. Of course, you will hear many interesting stories on the way.
Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe. 25 churches, two castles, medieval streets, old campus of university from 16th century, city wall with the Gate of Dawn, medieval Jewish quarters which became ghettos during the World War II.
Uzupis- district of artists is one of the most interesting places in the town. Community of artists declared so called free state from Lithuania 1997 April 1st. Now April 1st is the day of independence of Uzupis. We will explore the district with its galleries, artists, constitution and sculptures.
It is possible to make a break and taste Lithuanian beer or food for additional price.
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From
US$121.11
per group
From
US$121.11
per group

Private Tour: All-Highlights of the Vilnius Old Town
4-hour walking tour of the Vilnius historic center. You walk along the streets of the old city, you will see Gate of Dawn, Church of St. Casimir, St. Anne's Church, Town Hall, Vilnius University, Church of St. Johns, Presidential palace, Vilnius Cathedral Square, Gediminas Tower, Gediminas Avenue, Lithuanian National Drama Theater, Lithuanian National Library, as well as a panorama of the city from the Gediminas Castle Tower.
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From
US$215.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$215.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Vilnius Old Town and Uzupis Tour
Explore the old town of Vilnius with its array of exceptional discoveries and impressive architecture
Benefit from a small group tour ( max 12 people ) for the utmost personalized attention
Head into Vilnius Cathedral to learn about the city's history and culture
Climb the steps of St. John's bell tower for amazing views of the city and the surrounding area
See one of the most important pilgrimages at the Gate of Dawn
Discover the extraordinary republic of Uzupis within the city
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From
US$96.89
From
US$96.89
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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