Vilnius

With no details of a campsite to be found, we opted for the Panorama Hotel on the outskirts of the "old town" - reasonably easy to drive to and with secure parking.  After our traditional siesta, we headed off towards the centre. Walking through the "old town" bathed in the setting sun left us with only a moderate impression of the area. We found that we preferred the "new town" and the area around Gedimino (big central avenue type street) where we had dinner.  

Chapel at the Gate of Dawn

However, past 9pm the "old town" seemed an altogether different place - quaint, warm and friendly.  The following day when we went back for a better look around and some photos, it still had the charm of the evening before, but now we were also able to appreciate some of the grandeur and potential of the place, which seemed to have completely eluded us in the early evening the day before.  

Town Hall

In 2009, Vilnius will become one of the European Capitals of Culture. Preparations are already well under way for this event: roads in the old town were being relaid, many of the churches and historic houses were being spruced up especially, and the completion of the reconstruction of the "Lower Castle" is set to be finished by then.  If you are thinking of going somewhere for a long weekend in 2009, then we would strongly recommend a visit - we are certainly planning on trying to return for it.

View down Pilies Gatve towards the castles

The Lower Castle

The Upper Castle

The Cathedral

The Cathedral Belfry

The Presidential Palace