The bunker and chambers of the Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall showcase weapons and artillery used from the 16th century onwards. Most visitors find about one hour to be ample time to walk through the museum and head up to the viewing terrace. A few city tours of Vilnius may make a stop outside the bastion, but a guided tour inside requires advance reservations made through the museum by phone or email.
The entrance and main exhibitions are wheelchair-accessible. Video guides with Lithuanian Sign Language are available, as is some information in braille.
If coming by car, park in the open lot on the north side of the hill, next to the Tymo flea market location.
Many museum exhibits are interactive displays, increasing appeal for younger audiences.
Information displays in the museum are presented in both Lithuanian and English.
The Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall is on the east side of Vilnius Old Town, and you can walk there in fewer than 10 minutes from places such as the Dawn Gate and Town Hall Square. The museum is even easier to reach if you’re getting around Vilnius by bicycle. The nearest bus stop, Aušros vartai, is a stop on various routes from the train station and is a short walk from the entrance.
Like many museums in Vilnius, the bastion is closed on Mondays. The museum tends to be busier on the weekend, so try and go on a weekday morning for fewer crowds. However, entry to the museum is free on the last Sunday of the month, making it a great time to go if you’re on a budget and don’t mind it being busy.
Although the Bastion of the Vilnius City Wall does offer views of the city, it is a little distant from some of the city’s most popular landmarks. For a more immediate view of Vilnius Old Town, head to the top of the hill where Gediminas Castle Tower stands. If you want a view that also includes this symbol of the city, cross the river and walk up to the Three Crosses Monument.
