Vilnius TV Tower

Vilnius, Vilnius1-1.5 hoursBest: Clear days for views; January 13 for memorial

Lithuania's tallest structure at 326.5 meters, with an observation deck and revolving café — also the site of the January 13, 1991 massacre when Soviet troops killed 14 civilians defending Lithuanian independence.

The Vilnius TV Tower is Lithuania's tallest structure, soaring 326.5 meters above the Karoliniškės district. Its observation deck at 165 meters offers the highest viewpoint in the Baltics, with panoramic views stretching across Vilnius and deep into the surrounding countryside on clear days. But the tower is far more than a viewing platform. On January 13, 1991, Soviet paratroopers stormed the tower in an attempt to suppress Lithuania's independence movement. Thousands of unarmed civilians had formed a human shield around the tower, and 14 people were killed and over 700 injured when tanks and soldiers attacked. This event, known as Bloody Sunday, galvanized international support for Lithuanian independence. Today, the base of the tower features a memorial to the January 13 victims, with photographs and testimonials. The observation deck and revolving café operate as a tourist attraction, but the site retains its profound historical significance for Lithuanians.

Why Visit

The highest viewpoint in the Baltics combined with one of the most important sites of Lithuania's independence struggle. The contrast between tourist attraction and sacred memorial is deeply moving.

History

Built in 1980. On January 13, 1991, Soviet troops killed 14 civilians defending the tower. The event is commemorated annually and was crucial to Lithuanian independence.

Address

Sausio 13-osios g. 10, Vilnius

Opening Hours

Daily 11:00-21:00

Admission

€9 adults, €5 students

54.6881, 25.2136

Visitor Tips

1Visit on a clear day for views stretching 50+ km
2The revolving café is a unique dining experience
3The January 13 memorial at the base is deeply moving
4Book restaurant reservations in advance
5Evening visits offer Vilnius illuminated below