Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (Okupaciju ir Laisves Kovu Muziejus)
The basics
At the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, you can uncover Lithuanian history from the end of World War II, to Soviet occupation, to Lithuanian independence. It's easy to pair a museum visit with an Old Town outing, and you can avoid the crowds by pre-booking skip-the-line tickets. Learn as you go with an audio guide, and for the best value, visit Tuskulėnai Peace Park—your ticket is good for same-day entry to both sights.
Things to know before you go
- The Museum of Occupations is a must-see for travelers interested in the USSR and Lithuanian history.
- Students and retired adults enjoy discounted museum entry; free entry is offered for children aged seven and under, patrons with disabilities, and Vilnius City Card holders.
- You can purchase a booklet or postcard at the museum bookshop.
- Travelers report the museum is not wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
The most convenient way to visit the museum is on a guided tour. Soviet history tours and Chernobyl tours typically include the museum as a stop, while bike tours and walking tours let you see more in less time. If you prefer to take public transit, numerous buses stop nearby—along Pamėnkalnio Street—and it's only about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The Museum of Occupations holds typical business hours Wednesday through Sunday, and is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Plan to visit during the week to enjoy a quieter experience in this somber museum, and skip a visit during peak tourist season—over the summer months—if you want to avoid the crowds.
Visiting the Memorial Complex of the Tuskulenai Peace Park
Located across the Neris River just about three kilometers (1.8 miles) from the Museum of Occupations, the Memorial Complex of the Tuskulenai Peace Park is an important complement to your museum visit. The sight was once a mass grave, and prisoners were held and tortured here under the KGB. Today, the property is a peaceful space, offering visitors the chance to stroll and reflect. The on-site conference hall hosts screenings, exhibitions, and seminars.
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- Gediminas Avenue (Gedimino Prospektas)
- Lukiskes Square (Lukiskiu Aikste)
- Subacius Hill
- Money Museum (Pinigu Muziejaus)
- National Art Gallery
- Presidential Palace
- Vilnius University (Vilniaus Universitetas)
- National Museum of Lithuania, New Arsenal
- Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (National Museum)
- Vilnius Cathedral (Arkikatedra Bazilika)
- Gediminas Castle Tower (Gedimino Pilies Bokstas)
- Vilnil Museum of Illusions
- Amber Museum-Gallery (Gintaro Muziejus-Galerija)
- St. Anne's Church
- Bernardine Church (Bernardinu Parapija)