Vilnius Botanical Garden

About

The Vilnius University Botanical Garden is the largest and oldest botanical garden in Lithuania, offering a rich blend of scientific heritage, natural beauty, and public engagement. Established in 1781 by Professor Jean-Emmanuel Gilibert, the garden has evolved through several relocations and now operates across two sites: the main 191-hectare campus in Kairėnai and a smaller section in Vingis Park. The Kairėnai site, set on the grounds of a former manor estate, features themed plant collections, greenhouses, and seasonal exhibitions, while the Vingis branch offers a more compact, centrally located green space open during warmer months. Together, they house over 11,000 plant taxa and support research in genetics, conservation, and horticulture. The garden also serves as a venue for concerts, festivals, and educational programmes, making it a dynamic cultural and recreational destination. With its fusion of academic purpose and public appeal, the Vilnius Botanical Garden invites visitors to explore biodiversity while enjoying a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Vilnius Lithuania

Location

Vilnius University Botanical Garden is the largest botanical garden in Lithuania, spanning 199 hectares across two locations: Kairėnai and Vingis Park. The main site is at Kairėnų g. 43, on the eastern edge of Vilnius, set within the historic grounds of Kairėnai Manor. This garden features diverse plant collections, ornamental gardens, ponds, and remnants of the old manor, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy educational programs, cultural events, and recreational areas for picnics, with a small restaurant near the entrance. The Kairėnai site is easily accessible by public transport, with the nearest bus stop, Kairėnai, just a three-minute walk away and served by buses 18, 38, and 114. Nearby, you’ll find the tranquil landscapes of Verkiai Regional Park and the scenic Neris River valley, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty surrounding Vilnius. The garden is open year-round and is especially popular in spring and summer when its vast plant collections are in full bloom.