The oldest oak tree in the park is estimated to be over 400 years old and stands as a protected natural monument.
The park's current layout is a faithful restoration of the 19th-century botanical landscape design created by Russian-born architect Alexander Strauss.
During the Soviet era, the park was renamed Sereikiškės Park, a name that many locals still use colloquially today.
The park is situated on land historically belonging to the Bernardine monks, which explains its connection to the adjacent monastery buildings.
The musical fountain is programmed with daily shows that synchronize water movements to classical and modern musical scores.
Bernardine Garden is a historical park located in the center of Vilnius, nestled between the Vilnia River and the Gediminas Castle Hill. The park underwent a significant reconstruction in 2013 to restore its original 19th-century plan designed by Alexander Strauss. It features a botanical section, a rose garden, and a musical fountain that hosts light-and-sound shows. The grounds are home to several ancient oak trees, including one estimated to be over 400 years old. Paths wind along the riverbank, connecting the garden to the nearby Bernardine Monastery and St. Anne's Church. The park integrates diverse landscape styles, incorporating elements of a botanical garden, a monastery garden, and a riverside recreational area. It serves as a major green lung for Vilnius Old Town. Visitors can access various recreational facilities, including a playground and outdoor chess tables.
The bridge over the Vilnia River, providing a framed view of both the park greenery and the spires of St. Anne's Church.
Enter from the direction of the Gediminas Tower to walk downhill through the garden toward the river.
Visit the rose garden area in early summer for the peak blooming period.
Look for the outdoor public chess tables if you want to observe or join in a local game.
Do not attempt to swim in the Vilnia River within the park boundaries as currents can be unpredictable.
The park is significantly more accessible and active from late spring through early autumn; certain sections may have limited access during heavy winter snowfall.
Maintain quiet around the monastery walls; do not climb on the historical statues or the protected 400-year-old oak tree.
