Private Tour

Jewish heritage tour in Vilnius

Overview

Available languages

Norwegian

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

I invite you to join a half-day Jewish heritage tour in Vilnius. In the 19th century, Vilnius was known as the 'Jerusalem of the North,' where Yiddish culture flourished. We will explore the Old Town, tracing the rich Jewish history where the Great Synagogue stood and the Vilnius Gaon lived. I will share stories and highlight places linked to other famous Lithuanian Jewish figures. We will walk through the area that was the Jewish ghetto during the Holocaust, visiting locations where the Jewish government (Judenrat), theater, and library once operated. Additionally, we will visit the only functioning synagogue in Vilnius, one of about 100 that existed before the war. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the vibrant Jewish life that once thrived in Vilnius and reflect on its lasting impact on the city's cultural landscape.

Additional Info

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Professional guide

Tickets to the Synagogue

Hotel pickup and drop-off (If in the center)

Coffee and/or Tea

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

The small Jewish ghetto in Vilnius is home to the sculpture of the Vilnius Gaon, a revered scholar and prominent figure in Jewish history. We will also visit the site of the Great Vilnius Synagogue, where archaeologists have uncovered parts of the bima (the raised platform from which the Torah is read) and the ritual bath, known as the mikva. These findings provide valuable insights into the vibrant Jewish community that once thrived in this area. The synagogue was not only a place of worship but also a center for education and community life. As we explore these historical sites, we will reflect on the rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy of the Jewish people in Vilnius

50 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

This is the place where the resistance against the Nazis began, marked by the powerful words of Abba Kovner, who famously declared his call to action. As we explore this historic street, we will discover the remnants of the former Jewish library and other significant traces of Jewish life that once flourished here. The area is rich with history, showcasing the vibrant culture, community, and resilience of the Jewish people in Vilnius before the war. We will also encounter memorials and plaques that honor those who fought against oppression and commemorate the legacy of the Jewish community in this city.

50 minutes • Admission Not Applicable