Best And Most Beautiful Coffee Houses in Vilnius

While I love city breaks, I’m always completely exhausted afterwards. I have a severe case of FOMO, which is constantly triggered by the big city lights, its seductive museums, its tempting architectural gems, and other tantalizations.
Food? I can eat later; after all, I had breakfast just a couple of hours ago.
Drink? Fine, but only a sip on the go so I don’t become completely dehydrated.
Plus, this ascetic way of visiting saves me from time-consuming trips to the bathroom.
Two birds with one stone.
Fortunately, there are also cities like Vilnius where leisure’n’pleasure are an important part of the culture, allowing me to both fulfill my mission as a self-proclaimed city scout and at the same time pamper myself and relax. This brings me to Vilnius’ rich coffee house culture. It needed to be explored. Someone had to do the job, so I sacrificed myself and can introduce you now to the best and most beautiful coffee houses in all of Vilnius.

Coffee in Vilnius

The history of coffee in Lithuania dates back to the 18th century, when the beverage was introduced via Poland and the Ottoman Empire. In Vilnius, coffee consumption quickly became an integral part of urban life, especially among the upper classes. Coffee houses were meeting places for intellectuals, artists, and revolutionaries, similar to those in Vienna or Kraków.

Some traditional cafés still recall this era. They offer classic coffee varieties, homemade cakes, and nostalgic interiors. Perfect for a taste of the past.

Since the 2010s, a young, creative coffee scene has developed in Vilnius, causing a stir, especially in neighborhoods such as Užupis, Naujamiestis, and the old town, obviously. Third-wave coffee houses dominate here, emphasizing quality, origin, sustainable cultivation, and gentle roasting.

Vilnius’s young scene not only loves coffee, but also the combination of coffee and urban lifestyle. Therefore, many cafés also function as workplaces, such as Mint Vinetu, which is also a secondhand bookstore. Cafés like Elska Coffee, on the other hand, place great emphasis on Nordic design with plants and natural materials.

Vilnius thus offers an almost unique blend of traditional coffeehouse culture and a dynamic, trendy coffee scene. Coffeehouses in Vilnius have always been, and continue to be, places of encounter and exchange, from literary salons to modern coworking cafés.

Today, Vilnius’s coffee culture is a vibrant mix of historical roots and a modern, experimental spirit. Whether you’re looking to indulge in nostalgia in an old café or try the latest filter brewing methods, Vilnius offers coffee experiences with character, charm, and plenty of passion. A must-do for every coffee lover!

My 15 Favorite Coffee Houses in Vilnius

As I wrote above, the rich and varied coffee culture has a firm grip on Vilnius. It would take years of research and testing to find what are undoubtedly the best coffeehouses in the country. And by the time I completed my mission, countless new ones would have opened, so I had to start all over again.

Therefore, for this post, I limited myself to 15 of Vilnius’ best and trendiest coffee houses. Let’s explore them together!

Café Pilies Kepyklėlė

Café Pilies Kepyklėlė is located in the heart of Vilnius on Pilies gatvė shopping street. Located in a beautifully renovated old building with exposed arches, stone walls, and antique tableware, the café exudes old-fashioned elegance. It’s small, warmly lit, and popular with locals and tourists alike.

Originally, it focused exclusively on freshly baked rolls. Today, however, you can choose from a wide selection of pies, cakes, and other small pastries.

Light snacks such as soups, salads, and delicate crepes round out the offerings. They are freshly prepared and filled with delicious fillings such as mushrooms, spinach, or ham and cheese.

In addition to excellent coffee, they also serve a selection of herbal teas and freshly squeezed orange juice.

Café Pilies Kepyklėlė’s location is ideal for a stop between Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square. The café is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Kristupo Kavinė

Not far from Café Pilies Kepyklėlė is another cozy and atmospheric café: Kristupo Kavinė. Known for its welcoming ambiance and rich cultural heritage, Kristupo Kavinė has become a popular gathering place for locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated experience in a truly unique setting.

Located in a charming historic complex that once served religious and social purposes, the café combines old-world elegance with modern comforts.

The interior is tastefully designed, blending rustic charm with contemporary touches. During warmer months, guests can enjoy the tranquil outdoor terrace.

Kristupo Kavinė serves a menu of European and Lithuanian-inspired dishes, including hearty soups, salads, elegantly presented main courses, and sumptuous desserts. Of course, the café is also known for its coffee.

Aside from food, Kristupo Kavinė hosts small concerts, poetry readings, and community gatherings. Its proximity to Vilnius University and other local cultural institutions makes it a meeting place for students and artists.

Kristupo Kavinė is open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Sundays, they already open at 9.30 a.m.

My Tip:

Kristupo Kavinė stands at the corner of the historic complex of Vilnius University. It is one of the oldest in Eastern Europe and is also attractive to visitors as it includes St. John’s Church with its famous St. John’s Bell Tower.

At 68 meters, the Bell Tower is one of the tallest historic towers in Vilnius and has an observation deck offering a 360° view of the Old Town. For a 5 €uros entrance fee, you can work off the calories from your coffee break by climbing up. Alternatively, you can take an elevator. From this glass-enclosed level, you already have a good view. However, you can still climb some very steep stairs up to the terrace.

ESKEDAR

Another highlight among the coffee houses along the Pilies gatvė is Eskedar Coffee. It’s a coffee brand and café chain founded by Ethiopian refugee and later entrepreneur Eskedar Tilahun.

Tilahun came to Lithuania in 2006. After graduating with a degree in International Business Management, she founded Eskedar Coffee to bridge the gap between her Ethiopian heritage and her new life in Lithuania. One of her goals, of course, is to promote Ethiopian coffee culture through authentic beans and traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies. The drinks are made from beans imported from Africa and then roasted in Lithuania.

Today, you can find Eskedar Coffee at four locations in Vilnius. Nevertheless, Eskedar Tilahun opened her first café in the historic Signatarų namai in 2021. It was in this so-called House of the Signatories where the Lithuanian Declaration of Independence was signed in 1918.

Therefore, it is only natural that the tradition of this historic building is continued by organizing exciting cultural events alongside first-class gastronomy.

However, weather permitting, you can enjoy a delicious coffee at one of the tables along the street while people-watching.

Eskadar Coffee opens every day at 10 a.m. From Monday to Wednesday, they close at 10 p.m., on Thursdays and Sundays at 11.30 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays at 2 a.m.

Beigelistai

The popular bagel café Beigelistai is located on a street parallel to Pilies gatvė. With two locations, including this one on Literatų Street and another in the historic Halės Market, it offers a cozy atmosphere.

Beigelistai is known for its dense, freshly baked bagels, which are often compared to those in New York. Which is ironic, since bagels were invented by Polish Jews. Hence, we are dealing with a somewhat quirky re-import.

However, the classics like salmon with cream cheese, capers, and onions are particularly popular, as are original versions with sun-dried tomatoes or ham and cheese.

In addition to bagels, the café also offers homemade soups, fresh salads, and sweet treats. There are even vegan options.

The cozy ambiance with high bookshelves, relaxing music, and friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Beigelistai is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

My Tip:

Eskadar Coffee as well as Beigelistai are just a stone’s throw from Vilnius’ iconic Literatų Gatvė. This famous Literature Lane is one of the city’s most charming and artistic streets. This truly unique open-air art project celebrates literature and its authors, especially those with a connection to Lithuania.

To this end, the walls were decorated with small art panels, ceramic plates, and mini-installations. Each piece is dedicated to a writer connected to Lithuania by birth, work, or inspiration. To date, there are over 200 plaques, and the project continues to grow.

StrangeLove

StrangeLove is a standout specialty café that was established in 2015. Since then, it has become a cherished destination for both locals and visitors seeking exceptional coffee in a laid-back yet creative setting.

StrangeLove roasts its beans on-site, sourcing from small farms in regions like Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, and Kenya. For adventurous palates, unique drinks like the yuzu tonic espresso provide a refreshing twist .

Yet, the café also offers a small menu with snacks made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Weekday lunches feature rotating two-course menus. Obviously, amazing desserts are also available.

Note that StrangeLove is a favorite spot for freelancers and digital nomads. The café offers ample seating and, most importantly, reliable Wi-Fi. On warmer days, guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace adjacent to the Bernardine Gardens.

StrangeLove’s opening hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. On weekends, they open only at 10 a.m.

My Tip:

As I mentioned above, StrangeLove is directly adjacent to Bernardine Gardens, a beautiful, tranquil green oasis in the vibrant city center of Vilnius. Therefore, I cannot recommend enough taking a leisurely stroll before or after your coffee.

Coffee1

Tucked away in the bohemian district of Užupis, Coffee1 is a warm and welcoming independent café. Spread over two floors, it offers a cozy hideaway from the bustling neighborhood with indoor seating, especially around a rustic fireplace. On sunny days, they place a couple of tables on the sidewalk outside.

Coffee1 specializes in freshly roasted specialty beans. However, beyond great coffee, the café serves up a delightful selection of homemade ice creams, pastries, and other traditional Lithuanian treats.

Coffee1 is a very family-friendly place, hence, you’ll find some toys for the little ones. And while laptops may not be allowed on busy weekends, you are welcome to bring yours on weekdays and do your work on the spot.
In essence, Coffee1 is more than just a café, it’s a cozy cultural hub that reflects Užupis’s relaxed artistic spirit. Whether you’re craving a beautifully crafted flat white, a scoop of homemade ice cream, or simply a warm place to pause and recharge, Coffee1 encapsulates the heart and soul of local Lithuanian café culture.
Coffee1 is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. except for Sundays when they open only from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

My Tip:

Yes, my tip is obvious, namely to visit the exciting district of Užupis.

Make sure to read the constitution of this self-declared independent republic that is displayed in over 50 languages alongside the Paupio gatvė. Admire the amazing urban art, and finally to rub shoulders with the locals at Coffee1.

KIRAS

KIRAS is a cozy, retro-style café and vegan bakery known for its plant-based desserts, specialty drinks, and warm, inviting atmosphere.

The cakes and desserts are made exclusively with plant-based ingredients. Popular dishes include poppy seed cake with coconut and caramel chickpea cake. Savory options like hot paninis with beetroot, tofu, or jackfruit are also available.

KIRAS serves freshly roasted Crooked Nose coffee. I’m featuring this artisan roaster below. There’s also a wide selection of specialty teas. Unique drinks like chai latte, matcha, and cardamom latte are available, customizable with cow’s milk or a choice of four plant-based milks.

Committed to sustainability, the café impresses with its upcycled, colorful retro interior. The cozy and nostalgic atmosphere is accompanied by cool jazz and soul music. It’s a popular meeting place for locals and tourists who want to enjoy a coffee or dessert in a relaxed atmosphere.

KIRAS has three locations in Vilnius, open Monday to Friday from around 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Pinavija Café & Bakery

This family-run establishment is known for its cozy, nostalgically inspired ambiance and its excellent baked goods.

The café’s menu offers a delicious selection of traditional Lithuanian pastries and desserts. Of particular note is the Smetoniškas Napoleonas, a cake made with a unique recipe of hand-rolled dough and a special buttercream infused with high-quality French cognac.

If savory snacks are your thing, be sure to try the traditional pastries, typically filled with meat such as lamb, beef, or chicken. Of course, there are also vegetarian options.

Also worth mentioning is the play area for toddlers, which allows even stressed parents to unwind.

The café is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Elska Coffee

The minimalist and cool Elska Coffee offers a somewhat different vibe. However, it is also an outstanding specialty café. The word Elska translates to Love in Icelandic, and the café fully lives up to this claim with its sociable atmosphere, high-quality products, and community-oriented philosophy.

Elska Coffee is known for its specialty coffees and sources its beans from renowned roasters. The café offers various preparation methods, including pour-over techniques and classic espresso drinks. Experienced baristas are happy to assist guests in selecting beans based on their taste profile.

The menu offers a variety of snacks and also vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Elska’s interior combines eclectic design elements with cozy seating, large windows, and art magazines. It’s the perfect environment for relaxing and working. An outdoor terrace offers additional seating, ideal for observing the bustling city on sunny days.

The café’s proximity to the Pamėnkalnio Art Gallery, Lithuania’s oldest independent gallery, makes a visit even more worthwhile.

Elska Coffee is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 8 a.m. on weekends.

My Tip:

Elska Coffee is in the vicinity of two beautiful greeneries, namely Pamėnkalnio skveras and Reformatų parkas, alongside the bustling Pylimo gatvė.

So if you need a quick breather or feel like taking a relaxing stroll on gently rolling paths and between lush lawns, you’re in the perfect spot.

Ponių Laimė

Ponių Laimė is the superstar among Vilnius’s many beautiful cafés. Its fame, as could be expected in the 2020s, is due to its Instagrammability. Yes, admittedly, the facades of many shops and cafés in Vilnius are elaborately decorated, but Ponių Laimė takes it up a notch with its oversized macarons and elaborate floral decorations.

Ponių Laimė, which translates to ladies’ delight, was established in 1995 and is legendary not only for its elegant decor, but also for its delicious desserts. However, the café also offers a light lunch menu with salads and Lithuanian and international dishes.

It should be noted, however, that due to its popularity, the café is often frequented by tour groups, and the atmosphere is therefore not as relaxed as in other establishments featured here. Furthermore, the prices are comparable to those in other European countries.

Ponių Laimė is open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Augustas & Barbora Love Story Café

Also located in the charming Stiklių gatvė alley is the lavishly decorated café and bar Augustas & Barbora Love Story Café.

Inspired by the legendary love between Duke Žygimantas Augustas and Barbora Radvilaitė, the café recreates this historic romance with stunning flair. Lavishly arranged with thousands of blossoms by florist Mantas Petruškevičius, you’ll feel like you’re in a blooming dream garden. The facade, draped in dangling flowers and imaginative props, has rightly been awarded a design award.

Naturally, the enchanting decor of the Augustas & Barbora Love Story Café makes the venue one of the most Instagrammable attractions in the city. And since the decor changes regularly with the seasons, you certainly won’t have to stop for just one visit.

In addition to coffee, the drinks menu also offers champagne and sophisticated cocktails.

In short, the Augustas & Barbora Love Story Café is much more than just a café. Rather, it is a multi-sensory experience where romance, fantasy, craftsmanship, and top-class gastronomy come together in a wonderful way.

My Tip:

Stiklių gatvė leads through Vilnius’ Glass Quarter, a fascinating blend of history, craftsmanship, and artistic innovation.

To this day, in addition to the outstanding cafés featured above, the district is home to small shops, art galleries, and glass studios. So keep your eyes peeled on your way to Ponių Laimė and Augustas & Barbora Love Story Café so you don’t miss any of these gems.

Mint Vinetu

Mint Vinetu is one of my absolute favorite cafés in the city, thanks to its unique concept and distinctive atmosphere. This remarkable space seamlessly combines a secondhand bookstore with a cozy café, creating a haven for book lovers and coffee lovers alike.

While not a traditional café, Mint Vinetu offers a wide selection of beverages to suit every taste. The signature drink, the so-called Bouquiniste Coffee, is a robust brew, slightly larger than a double espresso, and is prized by regulars for its strength. Tea lovers will appreciate the unique blends named after literary works.

The café offers an extensive collection of used books in various languages. Visitors can browse the shelves, then find a cozy corner among the upcycled furniture and read to their heart’s content.

Mint Vinetu is, of course, much more than just a café. Various cultural events are held here regularly. In addition to books and beverages, Mint Vinetu offers a selection of unique souvenirs and handicrafts.

I love Mint Vinetu, but I would like to point out that its combination with the bookstore creates a subdued atmosphere. I wouldn’t necessarily meet up with friends for a boisterous chat, but rather go when I need peace and quiet or want to focus on my work.
Think library vibe.

The café is open every day from 12 noon to 8 p.m.

My Tip:

Just a few steps from Mint Vinetu is the Dominican Church of the Holy Spirit, one of the city’s most atmospheric and spiritually powerful Baroque landmarks. Though often overshadowed by more prominent structures, this church holds a rich history and a unique character.

While the exterior is relatively modest, the interior is lavish, characterized by dramatic vaults, gilded altars, swirling stucco decoration, and vivid frescoes that seem to dissolve the boundaries between architecture and illusion.

Taste Map Coffee Roasters

Taste Map Coffee Roasters is a renowned specialty coffee company known for its high quality. Founded in 2012 by award-winning baristas Domas Ivonis and Ieva Malijauskaitė, the company began as a large-scale roasting facility and has since expanded to include several cafés throughout the city.

Taste Map places great emphasis on high-quality, single-origin beans, primarily from Brazil and Colombia. The coffee menu includes espressos, filter coffees, and cold brews. Signature creations such as espresso tonics are popular! There is also a modest selection of pastries and small snacks.

Opened in 2015 on M. K. Čiurlionio gatvė, the flagship store impresses with its stylish interior. On nice days, you can also enjoy your favorite beverage on the terrace, although this is right on the street. Therefore, for an even more secluded atmosphere, the branch on Gynėjų gatvė by the Neris River is more suitable.

Taste Map not only serves coffee, but also promotes coffee culture through information and engagement. They have organized events such as Lithuania’s first Aeropress Championship, and their team has won awards in national and international coffee competitions.

Taste Map Coffee Roasters branches are generally open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. on weekends.

My Tip:

As a matter of fact, there isn’t much of tourist interest around Taste Map Coffee Roasters. However, I recommend visiting the Russian Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine and Michael which is just around the corner. Built in 1913 to honor the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty, it is also often called the Romanov Church.

Designed in a blend of Rostov and Suzdal historicist styles, the church is noted for its beautiful gilded onion-shaped domes. While the exterior is rich in arches and stucco ornamentation, the interior is rather simple with wooden iconostasis and chandeliers.

Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories

Once you’re in the area of Taste Map Coffee Roasters’ flagship café, you can as well pay Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories a visit. While it no longer functions as a traditional café, visitors are welcome to participate in scheduled tastings and workshops. These provide insights into various brewing techniques, bean origins, and flavor profiles, fostering a comprehensive appreciation for this special beverage. Founded in 2011 by Emanuelis Ryklys, the establishment has evolved from a specialty café into a multifaceted institution encompassing a micro-roastery, coffee school, and retail shop.

The interior of Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories is characterized by minimalist design, with lots of natural materials such as wood and lots of plants, creating a serene atmosphere

Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories are open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Espresinė

Espresinė is located in the upscale Žvėrynas district. It is known for its high coffee quality and very laid-back atmosphere.

Operated by Kavos Broliai, a local coffee roasting collective that sources beans exclusively from smallholder farmers around the world, the focus is on light and sweet roasts to highlight the unique characteristics of each coffee. The café also offers beverages prepared using various brewing methods.

The café itself offers a minimalist and rather cool atmosphere, accompanied by subtle soul or jazz music. The small menu includes expertly brewed coffee and a selection of fine pastries. If in doubt, just ask the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

And if you enjoyed the specialty coffee beans so much that you want to enjoy them at home, why not browse Espresinė’s online shop?

Espresinė is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

My Tip:

The Žvėrynas district, located northwest of the city center, is still known for its sophisticated atmosphere and beautiful wooden houses from the early 20th century. Before visiting Espresinė, it’s a good idea to take a long walk through this authentic yet very special neighborhood of Vilnius.

So yes, these are 15 of the most beautiful Coffee Houses in Vilnius. If you need further inspiration for your visit to the city, check out my post What to See on an Unforgettable Weekend in VILNIUS where you’ll find tons of tips. In my post Vilnius Baroque: The City’s Twelve Most Magnificent Churches, I’m introducing the 12 most magnificent houses of worship, plus five amazing Orthodox churches.

If urban art is your jam, make sure to check out the comprehensive post on Best Street Art in VILNIUS. In my post La Vie en Rose: How Vilnius Celebrates Soup with Exuberance, I’m inviting you to join the fun during Vilnius’ annual Pink Soup Fest. And finally, if you have only a short stay, like for instance a layover in Vilnius, make the best of it with my guide for 24 hours in VILNIUS. There you’ll find a complete itinerary for a sunny day as well as for a rainy day.

How to Get Around

The Old Town is easy to explore on foot. Since some of the main sights are located in hilly areas and many streets are cobblestoned, I can’t really recommend exploring the city by bike. Nevertheless, it is an option.

Like virtually all European cities, Vilnius has a well-developed public transportation system, consisting primarily of buses and trolleybuses. The network is comprehensive and, above all, very affordable. Interestingly, it is supplemented by privately operated minibuses, which are integrated into the official system, but run mainly on the less frequented routes. However, these minibuses are faster than regular buses and have fewer stops.

Regular bus service runs from 5:30 a.m. to midnight. After that, night buses run throughout the night with a limited schedule.

A single ticket costs 0.65 €uros in an app, whereas a paper ticket costs 0.90 €uros. For 5 €uros, you can get a 24-hour day ticket, and a 3-day ticket costs only 8 €uros. Note that apparently, the app works only with Lithuanian phone numbers, and everything is in Lithuanian. Therefore, I’d argue that the best way to buy tickets is by getting the Vilniečio Card. There are ticket machines at some stops, and paper tickets are also available on the bus. Keep in mind that you cannot pay cash but need to use a contactless means of payment.

Visiting Organized

I’m an avid solo-travelling woman. Since solo travel doesn’t equal solitude, I love to join organized tours here and there. They allow me to meet fellow travellers – for just a short moment or a lifelong friendship.

Therefore, here is a great tour where a local takes you for coffee. This way you get to know the fashionable side of Vilnius first hand and can enjoy it to the max*:

Map

On this map, you can see exactly where the coffee houses I’m introducing above are located.
Clicking on the slider symbol at the top left or the full-screen icon at the top right will display the whole map, including the legend.

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