Vilna – The Lithuanian Jerusalem

Vilna – The Lithuanian Jerusalem

An educational journey exploring Vilna’s rich Jewish intellectual, spiritual, and cultural heritage — from its golden age to the present day.

Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Duration: - Age: All ages
Languages: -
Registration open Educational / Heritage / Jewish history
Location:
Vilnius, Lithuania
Duration:
-
Ages:
All ages
Languages:
-
Apply now
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Overview

Vilna is a city with a Jewish presence dating back to the 16th century. Known as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania,” it became a major center of Jewish learning, spirituality, and intellectual life - shaped by figures such as the Gaon of Vilna and the movements that followed.

Participants in Israel – live like a local experience

Who is this program for?

  • Jewish participants of all ages
  • Families, community groups, and educational institutions
  • Individuals interested in Jewish history, learning, and heritage
  • Those seeking a deeper understanding of Jewish intellectual and spiritual traditions

Jewish thought & movements

  • The legacy of the Gaon of Vilna
  • The Jewish Enlightenment (Haskalah)
  • Chovevei Zion
  • Hasidim and Mitnagdim
Participants in Israel – live like a local experience

What's included

  • Personal support from day one
  • Shared housing options
  • Local health insurance
  • Public transportation pass
  • International community
  • Group trips and excursions
Holocaust & historical memory

Participants learn about the impact of the Holocaust and the Vilna Ghetto, approaching these topics through education, memory, and reflection within the broader historical narrative of the city.

The city and its surroundings

The journey introduces participants to Vilna and its surrounding areas – exploring the city’s layered past alongside its vibrant and evolving present.

Experience & perspective

This program offers a thoughtful exploration of Jewish continuity, resilience, and creativity — connecting historical legacy with contemporary Jewish identity.

How it works

Submit your application

Interview with a program advisor

Confirm your participation

Pack your bags and come to Israel!

Dates & Availability

Find the upcoming program dates and current registration status.

Program Start date End date Status Action
Masa Volunteers Masa Volunteers 27 Jan, 2026 25 Feb, 2026 Last few spots Apply now
Masa Volunteers Masa Volunteers 15 May, 2026 11 Jun, 2026 Registration open Apply now
Masa Volunteers Masa Volunteers 25 Jul, 2026 11 Aug, 2026 Join a waitlist Apply now
PROGRAM
MASA Volunteers
MASA Volunteers
START DATE
27 Jan, 2026
END DATE
25 Feb, 2026
STATUS
Last few spots
Apply now
PROGRAM
MASA Volunteers
MASA Volunteers
START DATE
27 Jan, 2026
END DATE
25 Feb, 2026
STATUS
Registration open
Apply now
PROGRAM
MASA Volunteers
MASA Volunteers
START DATE
25 Jul, 2026
END DATE
11 Aug, 2026
STATUS
Join a waitlist
Apply now

Don't take our word for it!
Hear it from real participants.

Participant | USA
No words can describe how incredible this gift is. The experience is so intense that if you even stop to think for a second you will miss something extraordinary. The places you go, the people you meet and the entire trip itself is nothing but beauty. Whenever memories cross my mind, they still bring tears to my eyes.
Jamie
Head of a school | USA
The itinerary that was prepared for us was exemplary. The staff was excellent and attended to our every need. I was most impressed with the educational content of the program. I look forward to working with Israel Experience again next year.
David
Head of a community | UK
I only have high praise for your organization and staff. We appreciate your hard work in building an affordable and safe trip for our members. But most of all, thank you for all those extra special touches that made all the difference to the trip. A special mention must be made of our tour-guides. This tip will be remembered forever by our community.
Ram
Participant | Argentina
When I saw the Kotel for the first time, I felt one of those inspiring moments. We’re in the Jewish homeland. This is home.
Salo
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