travel in lithuania

Blame it on the Baltic sea breeze or the almost-endless midsummer days: Lithuania has an otherworldly quality. In the southernmost of the Baltic states, beaches are spangled with amber and woodlands are alive with demonic statues. Medieval-style mead and traditional wood-carving never went out of style.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hill of Crosses

Lithuania's fabled Hill of Crosses is a symbol of defiance as much as a pilgrimage site. More than 100,000 crosses have been planted on this low hill,…

Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

If you only see one museum in Vilnius, make it this one. On a site that has been settled since the 4th century AD stands the latest in a procession of…

Vilnius Cathedral

Stately Vilnius Cathedral, divorced from its freestanding belfry, is a national symbol and the city's most instantly recognisable building. Known in full…

Grūtas Park

With Soviet-era statues of Lenin, Stalin and prominent Lithuanian members of the Communist Party that once dominated Lithuanian towns lining the forest…

Vilnius University

Founded in 1579 during the Catholic Counter Reformation, Vilnius University was run by Jesuits for two centuries. During the 19th century it became one of…

Cold War Museum

This museum on the site of a former Soviet nuclear missile base is situated deep in the heart of the Žemaitija National Park. The highlight is the chance…

Museum of Genocide Victims

This former headquarters of the KGB (and before them the Gestapo, Polish occupiers and Tsarist judiciary) houses a museum dedicated to thousands of…

Lithuania's dark 20th-century history is poignantly told here, 7km north of Kaunas. Begin in the sombre, church-like gallery with striking stained glass…

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The 2141km Forest Trail hiking route links the forests and national parks of Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia.

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Lithuania and beyond

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Lithuania Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Lithuania is the southernmost Baltic state. It’s also the biggest. Like the rest of the Baltics, I think Lithuania is an underrated destination, especially by American tourists who don’t know much about it or its charming (and affordable) neighbors.

Home to just under 3 million people, Lithuania has blossomed from its drab past into a fun, lively, and affordable budget destination.

It offers a mix of history (you can trace it back to 2,000 BCE), beautiful nature (it has flatlands, abundant forests, lakes, beaches, and dunes), and impressive historic architecture.

The crowning jewel of the country is Vilnius, the country’s capital. In addition to its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is home to a wild and affordable nightlife popular with the backpacker crowd.

In short, Lithuania punches well above its weight and shouldn’t be glossed over by travelers.

This travel guide to Lithuania can give you the tips and tricks you need to plan the ultimate adventure here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Lithuania

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lithuania

1. Explore Vilnius

Lithuania’s capital city has a historic old town, tons of street art, chill cafes, lots of Gothic and medieval architecture, and a wild nightlife. Explore incredible examples of Baroque buildings along the cobblestone streets of the city’s Old Town and don’t miss the Neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, or St. Saint Anne’s Church if you prefer Gothic architecture. A walk down Poetry Street pays homage to Lithuanian poets and writers, and the entire city is covered in some of Europe’s best street art. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (6 EUR) to learn about the city’s dark past and hike up the Hill of Three Crosses for a panoramic view of the city.

2. Visit Kaunas

Kaunas’ student population gives this city a young and energetic vibe. Wander Freedom Avenue (the main shopping street) to take in the city and people-watch. You also should see the Ninth Fort memorial, a genocide memorial and museum (Nazis used the nearby Ninth Fort as an execution site during their occupation). The city is well known for its Interwar era architecture which has been designated as a European Heritage site and you’ll find some of the best examples of Art Deco buildings in Europe here. There’s also a World War II museum (Lithuania was annexed by Germany from 1941-1945) in an old nuclear bunker and a scenic monastery overlooking the sea.

3. Hit the beach in Palanga

Located on the western coast, Palanga boasts long and wide sandy beaches where locals and tourists alike come to relax. White sand and scenic dunes make for a perfect beach day. They are the only beaches of their kind along the Baltic Sea, with 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) to explore. The beach is dotted with resorts, and it’s a popular summer vacation spot for Lithuanians. The town itself is surrounded by forests, and Palanga Park is full of beautiful old-growth trees. The city’s main avenue is filled with bars for those looking to enjoy the nightlife and there’s also tons of green space nearby that’s perfect for hiking and cycling.

4. Hike in Trakai Historical National Park

Opened in 1992, there are over 32 lakes in this park, which is located near Vilnius. It makes a perfect day trip for nature lovers. Be sure to visit Trakai Castle, Lithuania’s iconic 14th-century castle, built on an island in the middle of a lake. An iconic landmark, the well-preserved castle is made from red bricks and offers a peek into the past of Lithuania’s aristocracy. A historic town dating back to the 13th century, a few other castles, and plenty of gorgeous lake views add to the magic. Get Your Guide offers a tour from Vilnius (including an audio guide).

5. See the tallest sand dunes in Europe

Lithuania is home to the tallest shifting sand dunes in Europe. Known as the Curonian Spit, some dunes have been recorded to reach heights of 60 meters (196 feet). Thanks to the specific winds that occur here, the dunes can move at a rate of 15 kilometers (9 miles) per year and in the past have covered entire villages. It’s incredible to see up close!

Other Things to See and Do in Lithuania

1. visit kernave.

Located 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Vilnius, Kernave was the old medieval capital of Lithuania. The area has all kinds of forts, burial sites, and historical and cultural monuments dating back to the late Paleolithic Period. Though the town was destroyed by the Teutonic Knights (a Catholic military order) in the Middle Ages, you can still wander the ruins and learn more about the region’s history. Don’t miss the nearby Kernave Archaeology and History Museum. Admission is 4 EUR.

2. See the Hill of Witches

The Hill of Witches is an outdoor sculpture trail of wooden folk art in Juodkrante, a small town on the Curonian Spit. This art installation brings the forest to life with its creations, taking visitors on a trip through Lithuania’s most popular folk tales and legends. Each of the 80 wooden sculptures was hand-carved by local artists and each sculpture depicts a different character from folk and pagan traditions. Plan to spend around an hour seeing all the sculptures. Admission is free.

2. Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes

Located in Vilnius, this 17th-century Baroque palace was built for the country’s Grand Dukes. Today, it’s a history and art museum. You can tour stately and ornate ceremonial rooms, see traditional weaponry and armor, and learn about the palace’s history. Most of the palace is a reconstruction as it was first damaged by fire and then later destroyed by the Russians. However, it still does a good job of showing how the ruling class lived during the 17th century and the descriptions are really informative. Admission is 5 EUR.

3. Drink traditional mead

Lithuanians are proud of their traditional beer brewing and there are numerous microbreweries throughout the country. In addition to craft beer, there’s also locally-produced mead, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermenting honey. Mead is the oldest alcohol in the world and it’s been said that the mead was so popular in Lithuania in the middle ages that noble families consumed upwards of 30 barrels of it each week. Like beer, expect to pay a few euros for a glass.

4. See the Hill of Crosses

Located 12 kilometers (7 miles) from Siauliai are over 100,000 crosses and religious statues covering an entire hill (93% of the country is Christian and most identify as Catholic). The crosses are believed to have originally been placed there by local Catholics as early as 1831. As the years went by, more and more crosses appeared. The site slowly became a popular place of pilgrimage for Lithuanian Catholics. During the Soviet occupation, the Hill of Crosses became a symbol of national defiance as the Soviets bulldozed the hill three times. The Lithuanian people continued to re-erect the crosses each and every time. These days, visitors often leave a cross, adding to the collection. Admission is free.

5. Visit the Museum of Illusions

This museum opened in 2016 in Vilnius and has some 70 exhibits, including optical illusions and virtual reality. It’s a fun and quirky place to visit, especially if you’re visiting with kids. You can ask the staff to explain the science behind each illusion and exhibit too. Admission is 12 EUR.

6. Explore Anyksciai Regional Park

Easily accessed as a day trip from Kaunas or Vilnius, Anyksciai Regional Park was created in 1992 and spans an incredible 38,000 acres. There are hiking and biking trails, archeological sites, and a super cool 300-meter treetop walking path. The path stands 35 meters (115 feet) above the forest and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. There are taller viewing platforms as well that provide 360° panoramic views of the park. Entry is just 1 EUR.

7. Visit the Museum of the Ninth Fort

Like much of Eastern Europe, Lithuania has had a challenging past. In the Museum of the Ninth Fort, you’ll learn about that violent history, from Lithuania’s part in World War I to their 20th-century hard-labor prison camps to the mass killings during World War II. The museum focuses on the atrocities of the wars and their aftermath — and how those atrocities shaped the country and its people. Outside in the museum grounds, there’s a massive 32-meter-tall (104-feet) memorial to the 50,000 Lithuanian Jews who were murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust. Admission is 6 EUR and guided tours are an additional 15 EUR

8. Go birdwatching in Curonian Spit National Park

Located along Lithuania’s coast near Klaipeda, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best locations in Lithuania for birdwatching. Expect to see mergansers, egrets, cormorants, and more here. The best time to visit is in September during the migration season. Admission to the park is 5 EUR per vehicle in the off-season and 20-30 EUR per vehicle during the summer (depending on the size of the vehicle). Be sure to visit the nearby spa town of Neringa while you’re here.

9. Visit the Devil’s Museum

For something unconventional and off the beaten path, visit the Devil’s Museum in Kaunas. It boasts a spooky collection of over 3,000 paintings, sculptures, and other works of art of the devil. From traditional religious figurines to political works of social commentary, there’s a lot to see here. The collection began in 1966 and has grown as more and more people donate items. Admission is 5 EUR.

10. Explore Uzupis

If you are looking for Lithuania’s art scene, head to the bohemian neighborhood of Uzupis. When the Soviet Union left the country, a group of artists came together to form the ‘Republic of Angels.’ They consider themselves an independent country, set on 148 acres of land. With 120 residents, they even have their own president, bishop, churches, and a grand total of four official flags. It’s sort of Lithuania’s version of Denmark’s Freetown Christiania. Most walking tours stop here, show you around, and highlight the “country’s” history and evolution.

11. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

Also known as the Museum of Genocide Victims, this museum was opened in 1992 in Vilnius. It‘s situated in the building where the KGB (the Russian secret police) operated between 1940-1991. The building is a former prison and the place where death sentences were implemented by the Communist regime. Today, it has exhibitions where you can learn about Lithuania’s loss of independence, the Soviet occupation, and the country’s fight for independence.

12. Explore Aukštaitija National Park

North of Vilnius, Aukštaitija National Park is 400 square kilometers (250 square miles) of pine and spruce trees and tons of wildlife (including wild boars). The oldest park in the country, it was established in 1974 and has lots of rivers and lakes (30 and 100 respectively) and numerous hiking trails. There are also a couple of archaeological sites from the 9th-12th centuries here. There’s no fee to enter but there are a few strictly controlled areas that you need a permit to visit or you need to be accompanied by a park employee.

Lithuania Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms start around 13 EUR per night for a 8-12-bed dorm. For a 4-8-bed dorm, expect to pay 16 EUR. Free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities are standard and most of the party hostels run pub crawls, which often include a free drink. For a private room, expect to pay at least 30 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, wild camping is perfectly legal and safe (and even encouraged). If you prefer to camp in a formal campground, they are available around the country and cost from 8 EUR per night for a basic two-person plot without electricity.

Budget hotels start around 30 EUR per night for a double or twin. Expect basic amenities like TV, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee/tea maker. Some include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in the country, with private rooms starting at 25 EUR per night (but average double that price when not booked in advance). For an entire home or apartment, prices start at 50 EUR but generally average double that.

Food – Lithuanian cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional rural fare. Mushrooms (and other foraged foods), beetroot soup, smoked sausages, and herring are all common staples. Pickled foods and potatoes are also super popular. Be sure to try cepelinai , the national dish, which are dumplings made from potatoes with a bacon sauce and sour cream. Potato pancakes and fried cheese curd are two other popular dishes to keep an eye out for as well.

When eating out, expect to pay around 8 EUR for an inexpensive meal of local cuisine. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 6 EUR for a combo meal. A pizza costs between 7-10 EUR. For Thai or Chinese food, expect to pay between 8-13 EUR for a main course.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of local cuisine including a drink costs around 40 EUR at a more mid-range restaurant.

Expect to pay around 3.50 EUR for a beer. A latte or cappuccino costs around 2.50 EUR while a bottle of water costs 1.25 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 25-40 EUR for basic staples like potatoes, meat, pasta, and seasonal produce.

Backpacking Lithuania Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 45 EUR a day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours. Add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget if you plan on drinking.

On a mid-range budget of 110 EUR per day, you can stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 210 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Lithuania Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Lithuania isn’t that expensive of a place to visit. As long as you don’t splash out on upscale accommodation and fine dining (or party too much), it’s hard to overspend here. That said, if you want to save some extra money, here are my suggestions:

• Take a free walking tour – Vilnius offers a handful of free walking tours to get you familiar with the city. I always take one when I get to a new city to learn about the history and culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – FlixBus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country. They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent seats for overnight and long-haul journeys.
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money make sure you book accommodation with a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it definitely saves you money.
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Lithuania, wild camping is perfectly legal and safe on public land.
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a fun way to not only save money but you’ll get to meet a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Lithuania are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few euros. Definitely skip the taxis too!
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Lithuania

Lithuania has lots of clean, fun, and affordable hostels to stay in. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Lithuania:

• Mikalo House (Vilnius)
• Jimmy Jumps House Hostel (Vilnius)
• The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas (Kaunas)

How to Get Around Lithuania

Public transportation – Public transportation in Lithuania is safe, clean, and reliable. Prices vary by city, but tickets in Vilnius cost 0.65 EUR for 30 minutes and 0.90 EUR for 60 minutes. You can get 1-,3-, and 10-day passes for 5 EUR, 8 EUR and 15 EUR respectively. If you pay the driver directly, a one-way fare costs 1 EUR.

Taxi – The starting fare for taxis is 1.30 EUR and then it is 0.60 EUR per kilometer.

Train – Trains in Lithuania are fast and convenient. You can easily reach all the main cities in the country via train. The 70-minute ride from Vilnius to Kaunas costs around 8 EUR while the four-hour ride from Vilnius to Klaipeda costs 22 EUR.

Bus – Buses in Lithuania are a budget-friendly choice for traveling around the country and into neighboring countries. A bus from Vilnius to Kaunas takes just under 90 minutes and costs around 12 EUR. From Vilnius to Klaipeda takes just under four hours and costs 28 EUR. The journey from Vilnius to Riga, Latvia takes 4.5 hours costs 20 EUR.

Flying – There are no domestic flights within Lithuania.

Car rental – Roads in Lithuania are well maintained and car rentals are affordable. Rentals begin at 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. While not necessarily cheaper than taking the bus, having a car offers much more freedom. Just make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for any car rental in the country.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Lithuania

Like its Nordic and Baltic neighbors, Lithuania has short summers and long winters. If you are wanting to get in some beach time then you need to visit between June and August. Even during this time, the temperatures can cool in the evenings so make sure you pack a sweater. Expect daily highs of 20-22°C (68-71°F) during the summer.

To save a bit of money and beat the summer crowds, visit during the shoulder months of April-May or September-October. During these months, it’s still warm enough to spend time outdoors. The national parks are particularly pretty during the autumn.

Winters are cold, with daily temperatures dropping below freezing. While prices are lower, unless you’re here for winter sports, I’d skip a winter visit.

Regardless of the time of year, rain is common in Lithuania so be sure to always keep a raincoat handy. If you plan on hiking be sure to bring a waterproof jacket.

How to Stay Safe in Lithuania

In Lithuania, violent crime is rare. Scams and pick-pocketing are common enough, though, so you’ll want to be vigilant in high-traffic areas in Vilnius, such as bus stations and on crowded public transportation.

If someone strikes up a conversation with you trying to sell something on the street or if young children suddenly approach you, be on alert — someone may be reaching for your wallet while you’re distracted.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s best to be safe than sorry.

Overall, scams are rare but, to avoid getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Lithuania Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Lithuania Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

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27 Top Things to Do in Lithuania (+Insider Tips & Map of Best Places)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 24, 2024

Are you considering a trip to the most beautiful country in the Baltics and wondering what there is to see and do in Lithuania ? In this article, you will find my selection of some of the best places to see and the best things to do in Lithuania . This is an insider’s guide, filled with local tips and advice, and I hope that it will inspire you to visit my home country and explore it deeper.

I have been running the Full Suitcase travel blog for several years now, writing about the most diverse destinations from all over the world… Yet, I always struggled to write about my home country, Lithuania, because it’s somehow hard to see it through the eyes of a tourist…

However, when I Googled ‘best things to do in Lithuania’, I found that all the best-ranking articles don’t do Lithuania justice… Sadly, most of them are written by hired writers who have never even been to Lithuania and have no idea what it’s truly like, not to mention all the inaccuracies and highlighting the strangest places just for the sake of filling the article…

And so I decided that it’s time to share my favorite places and best things to do in Lithuania, giving you a unique local insight and useful practical tips.

I want to show you how diverse and beautiful my home country is and that there is so much more to see and do in Lithuania than it looks at first sight. Find out!

This guide contains the very best things to do in Lithuania and the most unique destinations that you really should see . Every place featured here is one that we, Lithuanians, are proud of. At the same time, I only chose places that I think are truly worth your time as a tourist.

So if you are visiting the country for the first time and want to see the very best that Lithuania has to offer, this guide is for you. Find out!

Good to know: Because the locations mentioned in this article are scattered all over Lithuania, I also created a map , indicating each point of interest. You can find it at the bottom of this article. That should help you get a better idea of where everything is located and plan your trip accordingly.

These are the best things to do in Lithuania:

1. Sand Dunes of the Curonian Spit

I want to start this list with my personal favorite place in Lithuania – sand dunes of the Curonian Spit . This is a place where I spent countless summers as a child, a place that I took my husband to when he first visited Lithuania, and a place that I recommend to every tourist traveling to Lithuania.

The Curonian Spit is one of the most unique places in Lithuania. This 98 km long, 0,4 – 4km wide sand-dune spit separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. There are just a couple of villages, surrounded by endless forests and drifting sand dunes. Sometimes, it seems that time stood still here.

There is a lot to see in the Curonian Spit (and I’ll cover some of the best places below), but the main reason to come here is the sand dunes. Up to 60 meters high in places, these are the highest drifting dunes in Europe.

After intensive logging in the 17th and 18th centuries, the dunes began moving, burying several villages under the sand. Lots of effort and continuous dune stabilization work continues in order to preserve this ever-evolving landscape for future generations. Curonian Spit is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

TIP: The most impressive dunes that shouldn’t be missed are Parnidžio kopa ( Parnidis Dune ) in Nida and Pilkosios kopos or Mirusios kopos (Grey Dunes or Dead Dunes) also called Agilos kopa in Naglių Nature Reserve .

Good to know: If you walk too far to the southwest from Parnidis Dune, you risk entering the territory of Kaliningrad, part of the Russian Federation. Make sure that you follow any signs and don’t get into trouble for crossing the border.

LEARN MORE: Curonian Spit

2. Vilnius Historic Center

Vilnius Historic Center , or Vilnius Old Town, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-see in Lituania. Despite countless wars and destructions, Vilnius managed to preserve its medieval layout and an impressive mix of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and classical architecture.

There are many impressive buildings in the Old Town and the best way to see it all is to explore the historic center on foot.

Don’t miss the St. Anne’s Church and the adjacent St. Francis of Assisi (Bernardine) Church, the Gate of Dawn, Pilies Street, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Vilnius University and the Church of St. Johns, the Presidential Palace, and of course Vilnius Cathedral with its Bell Tower, and our National pride – Gediminas Tower…

I am not going to mention all these places separately because this would require a whole separate article. But some of them deserve a separate mention and you’ll find some more info further below.

TIP: See if you can join one of the walking- or bike tours with local guides during your visit to Vilnius. It’s a great way to explore the old town, get some background information of the main sights, and hear interesting stories about the city and its fascinating history.

3. Trakai Island Castle

Trakai Castle , built in the 14-15th centuries and just recently restored, is considered a definite must-see place in Lithuania. Located in the most beautiful setting on a little island surrounded by Lake Galvė, the castle is truly impressive. The whole area around Trakai is dotted with lakes and if you can, take your time to explore it as well.

Because Trakai is just a short drive from the capital city, visiting Trakai Castle is the most popular day trip from Vilnius. It’s also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lithuania, a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Sometimes, it might feel like a tourist trap, but if you look beyond the crowds, the tour buses, and the souvenir shops, you’ll be able to appreciate the unique setting and impressive architecture dating back from the times when the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was one of the main powers in the region, stretching all the way to the Black Sea.

TIP: You can visit Trakai by taking a guided tour from Vilnius . Alternatively, take a car or a train and visit on your own. If you come in the warm season, I highly recommend renting a rowing boat or a kayak. It’s a great way to explore the beautiful area around the castle. The best way to appreciate the incredibly beautiful surroundings here is by taking a hot air balloon tour .

4. Gediminas Castle Tower

One of the absolute must-see places in Vilnius, Gedimino   bokštas ( Gediminas Tower ) deserves a separate mention and a place on this ‘best of Lithuania’ list.

This tower is one of our National symbols and one of the very few historic places in the country that we were allowed to be proud of even in Soviet times.

Gediminas’ Tower is the most important feature remaining of the former Upper Castle in Vilnius. The first wooden fortifications at this place were built in the 14th century by Grand Duke Gediminas. This castle was the start of Vilnius city which would later become the capital of Lithuania.

According to a legend, Gediminas was hunting in the sacred forest near the two rivers that we now know as the Vilnia River and Neris River. Because he was too tired to head home, he set camp at this place for a night. That night, he dreamt of an iron wolf, standing on top of a hill and howling as loud as a hundred wolves. In the morning, he asked the head priest to interpret the dream. He told him that the iron wolf represents a castle and a city that will be established here and the glory and fame of which will be known throughout the entire world.

As it was common in those days, Gediminas saw this as a will of God and decided to build a city in this location, naming it Vilnius, after the Vilnia River.

Every Lithuanian grows up reading fairy tales and stories of this legend and it would be hard to find a Lithuanian who hasn’t visited the tower at least once in their lifetime… It will come as no surprise that Gediminas’ Tower Castle is considered as one of the most important places to see in Lithuania.

Practical info: Gediminas’ Tower Castle is open daily (except on Public Holidays). You can either take a funicular or walk up the hill. The views from the top of the tower are worth the effort and you can also visit the weapons and armory exhibitions inside.

5. Hill of Crosses

Kryžių kalnas , Hill of Crosses , is not just one of the best places to visit in Lithuania, it definitely deserves a place on any list of the most unique places in the world. Hundreds of thousands of crosses in all shapes and sizes, covering this tiny hill in the middle of nowhere is a very impressive sight!

Hill of Crosses dates back to the beginning of the 19th century when people were placing crosses to commemorate their loved ones who died in the uprising against the Russian Tsar. Needless to say, the authorities were not amused. It was forbidden to place crosses and they were being torn down by the government. That didn’t stop the people, however; they just looked for more remote locations. That’s how the Hill of Crosses on the Domantai Hill Fortress was born.

Despite the political oppression, the Hill of Crosses continued to grow and became a symbol of hope and strength for the Lithuanian people. It has become a very popular place for all kinds of religious celebrations in the interwar period.

Afterwards, as Lithuania was occupied by the Soviets, it was strictly forbidden to place crosses or to come to pray here. The Soviets have tried everything in order to destroy the Hill of Crosses – they took away all the crosses, closed the roads leading to it, and even tried to flood the area… But the harder they tried, the stronger was the will of the people to preserve it.

People would come here in the middle of the night, bringing new crosses all over again. The Hill of Crosses has become the symbol of heroic resistance to the suppression of religious freedom.

Ever since Lithuania’s independence, the Hill of Crosses has gained more and more significance. Its importance was crowned by the visit of the Pope in 1993. Nowadays, it’s a popular pilgrimage site and one of the most special places to see in Lithuania.

Practical Information: Hill of Crosses is located near Šiauliai, in northern Lithuania. It’s about 2.5 hrs drive from Vilnius and 2hrs drive from Kaunas or Klaipėda. It’s a good stop if driving to Riga in Latvia, that’s also about 2 hours away from here. It’s always open and there is no fee to visit and you can come here at any time.

While it requires some effort to get here, most people consider it more than worth it. It’s one of the most unique places you’ll ever visit.

TIP: You can visit the Hill of Crosses with this popular tour as a day trip from Vilnius . Alternatively, there is a private tour that combines the Hill of Crosses with a visit to Anykščiai (see #14 further below).

LEARN MORE: How to Visit the Hill of Crosses

6. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

Valdovų rūmai , the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is an excellent museum located inside the restored 15th-century palace at the Cathedral Square in Vilnius. I would dare say that, at the moment, this is the best museum in Lithuania.

The museum has several parts, with the most impressive one being the ruins of the original palace underground and the beautiful rooms displaying authentic furniture, tapestries, and paintings on the upper floors.

But probably the most impressive is the incredible historic virtual reality 3D experience . We have seen many virtual reality experiences in various contexts and this one is one of the very best ever. It’s great for both, kids as well as adults.

In a matter of a couple of minutes, you’re taken back in time and witness the creation and growth of Vilnius city. It’s so well done that it will take your breath away. I think that this 3D experience is the best thing you can do in Vilnius. It will help you appreciate everything you see in the city even more. Don’t miss this!

Practical info: The museum is open daily in summer, and every day except Mondays the rest of the year. Closed on certain Public holidays. More info here .

No list of the best places in Lithuania would be complete without mentioning its second-largest city and my hometown, Kaunas . Dating back to the 14th century and set in the place where the two biggest rivers in Lithuania – Nemunas and Neris – come together, Kaunas has always held a very significant place in Lithuania’s history.

In the interwar period, when Vilnius was occupied by the Polish, Kaunas was the temporary capital city of Lithuania. The city has known good times, but it has also suffered a lot, and for a while, it looked like it was struggling with its image.

Recently, Kaunas has been selected as the European Capital of Culture of 2022 and the city is rapidly changing beyond recognition. I am glad to say that it is doing its best to restore and reinvent itself and is again becoming a city that we can all be proud of. 

Not to be missed is Kaunas Old Town, Kaunas Castle, the Town Hall Square ( Rotušės aikštė ), the Cathedral, Vytautas Church, House of Perkūnas, Confluence of Nemunas and Neris rivers, the main pedestrian street Liberty Boulevard ( Laisvės alėja ), St. Michael the Archangel’s Church, and its countless museums including M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art and Žmuidzinavičius Museum, known as the Devils’ Museum (more info further below).

8. Klaipėda

Surprisingly, hardly ever mentioned as one of the best places to visit in Lithuania, Klaipėda is, in my opinion, another must-see in Lithuania.

Lithuania’s third-largest town and its biggest main port city, Klaipėda is located at the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. If you are taking a cruise through the Baltic States, you’ll likely stop here for a day.

Formerly known as Memel, Klaipėda was part of the Prussian Kingdom until 1923. That’s the reason why architecture here is very different than in the rest of Lithuania. I just love the wood-framed 18th-century German-style buildings in Klaipėda!

Don’t miss the Theater Square, the beautiful riverside of Danės River, and countless narrow streets and historic buildings of the Old Town. Another favorite is the Lithuanian Sea Museum (more information further below).

9. Lithuanian Folk Museum in Rumšiškės

There is no better place to get to know what life in Lithuania was like in the past than the Lithuanian Folk Museum in Rumšiškės, aka Open-Air Museum of Lithuania. It’s one of the largest ethnographic open-air museums in Europe, set in a beautiful area close to Kaunas Lagoon.

The museum is a great introduction to the ethnographic regions of Lithuania – Dzūkija (Dainava), Aukštaitija (Highlands), Suvalkija (Sudovia), Žemaitija (Samogitia)… All the houses here represent their respective regions and it’s interesting to see the architecture (and even the traditional clothing) differ from place to place. Inside, you’ll find typical household appliances and machinery, most dating from the 18th – 19th centuries.

Inside the museum, you’ll also find a ‘town’ with traditional buildings from all around Lithuania. There is also a church, a market square, and various houses of craftsmen with demonstrations in pottery, weaving, amber and wood crafting.

TIP: While the nicest time to visit the open-air museum is summer, it’s worth a trip the whole year round. Various events are held here in all seasons. Probably the best-known and the most popular one is Užgavėnės (a sort of Mardi Gras or a carnival, but then in the old-fashioned Lithuanian style). If you are visiting Lithuania during the carnival period (the week of Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday), Rumšiškės is not to be missed!

Practical information: The museum is located just off the highway between Vilnius and Kaunas, about 80km from Vilnius and 30 from Kaunas town center. For opening times and other info, please consult the official website of the museum .

10. Pažaislis Monastery

Pažaislio Vienuolynas ( Pažaislis Monastery ) and the Church of the Visitation are a part of the largest monastery complex in Lithuania. Located on the shores of the Kaunas Reservoir (huge artificial lake), this 17th-century monastery is one of the best places to see in Lithuania. Yet, you won’t find many tourists here. It might get busy during certain events, but most likely, you’ll have this gem all to yourselves.

The magnificent buildings are probably the most beautiful example of Italian Baroque architecture in Lithuania and are definitely worth seeing. While it’s an actual working monastery, it’s possible to visit the beautiful church.

If you have some extra time, go for a walk in the surrounding area. It’s so beautiful and peaceful here.

Practical information: The monastery is located about 10km from the Kaunas town center and can be best reached by car. Public transport is also available. It’s open for visits daily, except Mondays. For more information and opening hours, please check their website .

TIP: You can visit Kaunas, Rumšiškės Folk Museum, and Pažaislis Monastery as a day trip with this guided tour from Vilnius .

Nida is one of the biggest towns of the earlier mentioned Curonian Spit. In addition to the impressive sand dunes of the area, this picturesque town itself is also worth mentioning among the best things to do in Lithuania. It’s a true hidden gem!

Nida is a small fishermen’s town that has preserved its unique character and architecture not found anywhere else in Lithuania. It’s my favorite vacation place in Lithuania, but because it’s more isolated and not laying directly on the beach, it’s much quieter than the earlier mentioned Palanga.

Not to be missed are the earlier mentioned sand dunes, the colorful wooden fishermen’s houses, Thomas Mann Museum, and the lighthouse. You can also take a boat trip and see the impressive sand dunes from the water or visit the nearby Ventės Ragas (Ventė Cape). But my favorite thing to do is rent a bike and explore the 52 km of bike paths of the Curonian Spit. You’ll never want to leave!

LEARN MORE: Ultimate Guide to Nida

12. Grūtas Park

Grūto parkas ( Grūtas Park ) is a privately owned Soviet sculpture garden located in the forests of Grūtas village, near Druskininkai in the South of Lithuania. It contains a big exposition of the Soviet-era statues, Soviet memorabilia, and lots of other Soviet relics from the times when Lithuania was part of the USSR.

As Lithuania gained independence and all the towns and villages started getting rid of the statues of Lenin, Stalin, and other Soviet-era heroes, a businessman from Grūtas decided to collect them. In 2001, he opened this unique museum that quickly became the talk of the town. It has recently been expanded and now you can also find a small zoo, a kids’ playground (from the Soviet times), and a café here.

Grūtas Park has always been a bit of a controversial place, but it shows a big part of our recent history, and I think it’s certainly worth a visit. It is now considered as one of the most interesting places to see in Lithuania, so if you have a chance, give it a go.

Practical information: The park is open daily, the whole year round. For practical information and how to get there, please check their website .

TIP: You can visit Grutas Park, together with some other landmarks in the region by taking this highly-rated private day tour from Vilnius .

13. Druskininkai

One of the nicest small towns in Lithuania, Druskininkai , is little known to Western visitors. I didn’t see anyone mention it among the best towns to visit in Lithuania, but it’s really worth a visit. I might be biased as my godparents live here and I absolutely love Druskininkai, but I’m not the only one. This resort town is one of the most popular domestic destinations among Lithuanians and an absolute favorite among vacationers from neighboring countries.

Best known for its SPA treatments, Druskininkai is a very green town, with parks, forests, and lakes in and around the town. There are countless walking and biking paths, and the town has quite a lot to offer to tourists. Take a stroll on the pedestrian Vilnius Blvd, rent a rowing boat on the beautiful little lake with a fountain in the middle, rent a bike and discover one of the many parks, or visit a museum…

There is also a fantastic indoor water park, an adventure park, an indoor skiing arena, a gondola with fantastic views over the Neris River, and so much more… In the evenings, don’t miss the Musical Fountain – it’s always fun and you can order a song of your choice if you like to. If you want to explore further, you can also take a boat trip to the nearby historic Liškiava village.

Having mentioned all this, it might sound like Druskininkai is a busy town overrun by tourists. But it never feels like that! It has an amazing atmosphere and it’s a great place to visit in Lithuania in any season.

TIP: Druskininkai is like a destination in itself, so I recommend spending at least one night here (there are lots of really nice hotel s in town). Combine the visit with the earlier mentioned Grūtas Park which is located just nearby.

14. Anykščiai: Treetop Walking Path, Horse Museum & Puntukas Stone

Anykščiai is a sort of resort town, about 100km North of Vilnius. Known as one of the SPA towns and mostly visited by locals, I think it’s also worth a trip for tourists looking to get a bit off the beaten path in Lithuania.

The town itself is very nice and green, and its main landmark is the St. Matthias Church with the tallest spires in Lithuania. But most Lithuanians come here for another reason. A stone.

Anykščiai has always been known as the place where you could see Lithuania’s largest stone, Puntukas . We would travel all the way from the other side of the country just to see the stone…

I recently found out that it’s actually the second-biggest stone in the country, after the Barstyčiai stone, but nobody in Lithuania has ever heard of the latter. So Puntukas is our national stone and a place that every Lithuanian will proudly mention as one of the things to see in Lithuania.

A few years ago, a new attraction has been opened just nearby – Anykščiai Treetop Walking Path , and that is, in my view, worth the visit to the area more than any stone. This   Anykščiai Canopy Walk is located inside the national park, surrounded by lush forests. It’s a peaceful (although short) walk at the level of treetops, ending on top of an observation tower with an amazing view of the surroundings.

Another highlight in the Anykščiai area is Arklio Muziejus ( Horse Museum ). It’s a great place to visit, and especially if you are fond of horses or are traveling in Lithuania with kids. With lots of hands-on activities and horse riding available, it’s considered one of the best open-air museums in Lithuania.

While none of these places is an absolute must-see in Lithuania in itself, all of them together make for a really nice excursion. In addition, you can also combine all these places together with the nearby barefoot path or Labirynth park and turn it into a great family-friendly day out.

Practical information: Puntukas stone can be seen for free at any time, while the treetop walk can only be accessed during the day. It’s open daily, but hours vary by season. The Horse Museum is also open every day; for more information, please consult the official website .

TIP: If you don’t have a car, there are several tours that can bring you to this area as a day trip from Vilnius.

15. Palanga Amber Museum & Pier of Palanga

Palanga is the most popular Lithuanian seaside town. Thousands of Lithuanians spend their summer holidays at Palanga beach.

The town is a mix of beautiful nature, forests, and stunning white-sand beaches, but also the crazy busy and loud pedestrian Basanavičiaus Street that reminds you of a huge country fair… But if you can ignore this noisy crowded street, you will find that Palanga is actually a very pleasant little town that is worth visiting.

The reason why I decided to include it on this list of places to visit in Lithuania is because of the Palanga Amber Museum and the Pier of Palanga .

Palangos gintaro muziejus ( Palanga Amber Museum ) is located inside the restored 19th-century Tiškevičiai Palace and surrounded by the beautiful Palanga Botanical Garden. The museum features a really nice collection of Lithuanian gold – amber.

Amber is something that you’ll see everywhere in Lithuania – every souvenir shop and every market sells all kinds of amber jewelry and other products. But if you want to see some really nice exquisite pieces of amber, then there is no better place to do that than in this museum. My favorites are amber pieces with the fossilized remains of insects. Talking about stopping time…

Another reason to visit Palanga is the Pier of Palanga or Palangos tiltas ( Palanga Bridge ) as locals call it. There is no better place to see a sunset in Lithuania than from this wooden pier that stretches far into the sea.

On summer evenings, and especially on the weekends, it might feel like half of Lithuania has gathered to watch a sunset here. But if you come here in the lower season, you might have it all to yourself, and it’s simply magical…

TIP: If you decide to visit Palanga in summer, try to avoid weekends. If you are visiting in the colder season, after the storm, you might find some small pieces of amber on the beach.

16. Užupis

Located in the center of Vilnius, Užupis is actually just a quirky part of Vilnius Old town. Literally, Užupis means ‘beyond the river’ and it’s indeed separated from the rest of the city by the Vilnia River.

After the fall of the USSR and the disappearance of the former Soviet statues, several local artists erected a statue of the US rock musician Frank Zappa, as a symbol of freedom and democracy. A few years later, they went a step further, and on the 1st of April 1997, declared the independent state of Užupis.

While it calls itself one of the smallest republics in the world and boasts its own constitution, government, president, and even a navy consisting of a couple of small boats, Užupis is not in any way a political statement, but rather an art project if you like. It’s an exciting area loved by artists and they pride themselves on treating everyone equally.

Don’t miss the Constitution of the Republic of Užupis which can be found on the wall of a building on Paupio Street, 3A. It has been translated into 26 different languages, so no excuses or saying you didn’t know the laws of this self-proclaimed republic…

Some of the laws of Užupis state that ‘ Everyone has the right to be unique ‘, ‘ Everyone has the right to hot water, heating in winter and a tiled roo f’, or ‘ A dog has the right to be a dog ‘ and ‘ A cat is not obliged to love its owner, but must help in time of need ‘… You get the idea…

It’s a fun place to see in Vilnius and has become one of the most quirky and popular tourist attractions in Lithuania.

17. Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

The Museum of Genocide Victims aka Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is one of the most interesting museums in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Situated inside the former KGB building, this is by no means a light-hearted attraction. Some of the things you’ll see here are harsh and thought-provoking. But it’s a big part of our history and so if you want to know what Lithuania has been through in the recent past, this museum is a must!

Inside, you can visit the former KGB prison and see the premises where death sentences were executed for 50 (!) years. Here, you can learn about Lithuania’s occupation and repressions by the Soviets, and the persistent fight for independence.

Practical information: The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5-6 PM. See the official website for more info.

18. The Geographical Center of Europe & Europa Park

Back in 1989, the French National Geographic Institute determined that the geographic center of Europe is located in Lithuania, near the village of Purnuškės. Several countries claim to be at the heart of Europe and I’m not going into those discussions, but Lithuania gladly accepted this French calculation and proudly calls itself the Center of Europe.

If you like visiting quirky symbolic places like this, then you’ll enjoy a quick photo stop at the Geographical Center of Europe . It’s not much more than a monument, and you can get a special certificate confirming that you visited the center of Europe.

Another interesting place to see nearby is Europos Parkas ( Europa Park ), a sort of open-air museum that was designed to give artistic significance to the fact that Lithuania is the Center or Europe. This is a privately-owned museum, set in the forest with a variety of large modern artworks scattered in the area. In my view, it’s not really a must, but if you are visiting the area anyway, it’s a nice place to stretch your legs and see something different.

Practical information: The Center of Europe is located in Purnuškės, about 30km North of Vilnius and can be visited at any time. Europa Park is located in the same area, about halfway between Vilnius and Purnuškės. It can be visited the whole year round and is open daily. For opening hours and practical info, please check the official website .

19. M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art

Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis was a Lithuanian composer, painter, and writer who lived at the end of the 19th – the beginning of the 20th century. He’s one of Lithuania’s most famous artists and one of Europe’s pioneers of abstract art.

In his short life of just 36 years, he created hundreds of pieces of music, paintings, poems, and literary works. M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art in Kaunas houses the biggest collection of those works and is one of the best art museums in Lithuania. Not only can you find a big collection of his paintings, but also listen to his music. The two are interrelated and many of Čiurlionis’ paintings have musical names.

In addition to the works of Čiurlionis, this large museum houses ancient Egyptian and Greek art, as well as a big variety of European art from the 16th to 20th centuries.

TIP: One of the top attractions here now is an amazing VR film ‘Trail of Angels’ based on Čiurlionis’ works. Don’t miss it! And if you don’t have time to go to Kaunas, this experience is now also available in Vilnius. You can find more info here (be sure to reserve this in advance!).

Practical information: This museum is located in the center of Kaunas and is open daily, except on Mondays. There is an audio guide available and the dedicated staff is always ready to give you more details. More info here .

20. Devils’ Museum

Žmuidzinavičius Museum , known as the Devils’ Museum in Kaunas is one of the most special, quirkiest museums in Lithuania. It’s also the only museum in its kind in the world, and so it definitely deserves a mention among the main points of interest in Lithuania. If you are in Kaunas, don’t miss it!

Antanas Žmuidzinavičius was an artist who collected an impressive number of sculptures and carvings of devils from all over the world. After his death, his collection has been turned into a museum. In addition to the impressive collection of devils, you can also see paintings by the artist himself.

At the moment, the museum houses over 3000 devils from over 70 different countries. You can also learn a lot about Lithuanian folklore and stories and myths about the devils and evil creatures displayed here. If you bring a unique devil from your own country, the museum will accept it as a present and most likely add it to their collection.

Practical information: This museum is located in Kaunas, just next to the previously mentioned Čiurlionis Museum of Art. It’s open daily, except on Mondays.

21. The Hill of Witches

The Hill of Witches is an outdoor sculpture gallery in Juodkrantė, on the earlier mentioned Curonian Spit. All the sculptures here are made of wood and most portray Lithuanian fairytale characters, such as witches and devils.

Set in a beautiful forest, this feels like a magical place that will especially appeal to families with children. The Hill of Witches might not be a huge landmark, but it’s so unique and so typically Lithuanian that I think it deserves a visit. If you are visiting the Curonian Spit and have half an hour to spare, it’s a must-do!

Practical information: Since the sculptures are set in the forest, it’s always open and it’s free of charge.

22. Lithuanian Sea Museum

Lietuvos jūrų muziejus ( Lithuanian Sea Museum ) is a maritime museum with big aquariums, an aquarium tunnel, great sea lion and dolphin shows, and also historical exhibits. Located in an old fort on the northern tip of the Curonian Spit, it’s just a very short ferry ride away from Klaipėda town center.

It’s a fun place to visit in Lithuania with kids. Not only can you see a big variety of fish and animals including penguins, sea lions, and dolphins, it’s also a great place to learn more about the Baltic Sea. In addition, you will find some big old ships and also a replica of an old fisherman’s house.

Practical information: Old Smiltynė Passenger Ferry is the best way to get to the museum from Klaipėda. Alternatively, if you are visiting the Curonian Spit anyway, you can come here by car. Just get here early in the morning or parking space will be really hard to find.

It’s open the whole year round. In summer, the museum is open daily except on Mondays, the rest of the year – opening hours differ per season. More information on their website . Count at least half a day for a visit.

23. Dutchman’s Cap

Olando kepurė ( The Dutchman’s Cap ) is a 24-meter high sand hill with a steep cliff crashing into the Baltic Sea. It’s probably one of the most untouched, rough coastal landscapes in Lithuania.

The Dutchman’s Cap gets its name due to its shape that – looking from sea to land – looks like a traditional bi-corn admiral’s hat. This area has been mentioned as a navigational guide for sailors and fishermen in the early 19th century.

While not an absolute must in Lithuania, it’s a very nice tranquil place with nice scenery. It’s worth a short stop if you find yourself on the Lithuanian coast, but I wouldn’t drive all the way to the coast just for this. The best time to visit is at sunset.

Practical information: The Dutchman’s Cap is located between Klaipėda and Palanga (see the exact location on the map further below). There are many walking paths in this area. You’ll have to leave your car at one of the designated parking areas and walk 10-15 minutes to get to a small viewing platform. It’s also possible to walk down to the coast. You can spend half an hour here or a few hours (searching for amber :)) – it’s up to you.

24. Vilnius TV Tower

I was debating whether to include Vilnius TV Tower in this list of the best places to visit in Lithuania. But, since it has historical significance and offers some of the best views in Vilnius, I decided that it’s worth a mention.

On the 13 of January 1991, Vilnius TV Tower was at the center of a bloody independence fight against the Soviets. This was one of the last struggles that finally tore the USSR apart. Sadly, 14 Lithuanian people were killed here by the Soviet tanks that day. This is one of the darkest chapters of our recent history and I still remember the events of that day as if it was yesterday.

With over 326m in height, Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest building in Lithuania and the 8th tallest in Europe. You can visit an underground gallery, the Fight for Freedom Museum, and also take an elevator to the 165m height from where you get an amazing panorama of Vilnius and its wide surroundings.

TIP: Have lunch or dinner at the rotating Paukščių takas (Milky Way) restaurant and enjoy the 360° views with the whole city of Vilnius at your feet.

PRO TIP: If you are visiting Lithuania in the summer season and are looking for something unique to do in Vilnius, check out the new Edge Walk experience !

Practical information: The TV Tower is open for visits daily. More information on their website .

25. Lakes, Rivers, and Forests

With over 6000 lakes, more than 800 rivers, and over 33% of the territory covered by forests, Lithuania is a paradise for those who love simple, untouched nature .

It will come as no surprise that Lithuanians massively leave cities and head to nature every weekend. Kayaking, swimming, fishing, berry- and mushroom picking are just some of the favorite pastimes for Lithuanian people. In winter, people go walking, cross-country skiing, skiing, and also ice-fishing. No matter the season, Lithuanians love the outdoors.

If you are looking to explore Lithuania deeper, do as the locals do, and head to one of the many forests and lakes.

TIP: If you don’t know where to start, here you can find a selection of organized kayak tours all over Lithuania . If you are visiting Lithuania in summer, there is no better way to experience our nature than by going kayaking!

26. Christmas Trees

Lithuanian Christmas trees deserve a special mention. They are so nice and so special that it’s really worth it to (re-) visit Lithuania in winter, just to see the Christmas trees.

The most unique and spectacular Christmas trees can be found in Cathedral Square and the Town Hall Square in Vilnius and also at the Town Hall Square in Kaunas.

But also smaller towns often have the most beautiful Christmas decorations.

LEARN MORE: Vilnius Christmas Trees and Christmas Markets

27. Lithuanian Food

No list of the best things to do in Lithuania would be complete without mentioning traditional Lithuanian food . If you are traveling to Lithuania, make sure to taste at least some of our local specialties.

Lithuania has many traditional dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The most famous and typically Lithuanian are our potato dishes, such as cepelinai , kugelis ,  bulviniai   blynai , and vėdarai .

Other favorites include  koldūnai (sort of dumplings), lietiniai blynai (filled pancakes), šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup), kepta duona su česnaku (fried bread with garlic), baravykų sriuba (boletus mushroom soup), and also non-alcoholic drinks such as kisielius or gira .

TIP: If you try just one typical Lithuanian dish, make it  cepelinai . They are a sort of potato dumplings, somewhat comparable to the Italian gnocchi in taste and structure. However, cepelinai are much bigger and they are stuffed with either meat or curd filling. They are usually served with a very heavy and fat spirgučiai sauce, but if you are not a fan of fat food, I recommend asking for sour cream instead.

LEARN MORE: Lithuanian Food: Best Traditional Dishes to Try in Lithuania

Even More Interesting Places to See in Lithuania

As already said, in this list, I only included the best places to visit in Lithuania that I think are worth your time the most. If you have more time, you might want to consider the following Lithuania destinations as well:

• Kernavė – the former medieval capital of Lithuania and an archeological site close to Vilnius.
• Kėdainiai – one of the oldest towns in Lithuania.
• Birštonas – resort and SPA town surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Labanoras regional park tower – 2nd highest observation tower in Lithuania with amazing views of the area.
• Panemunė Castle – one of the most authentic castles in Lithuania (17th century).
• 9th Fort of the Kaunas Fortress – a museum and memorial for the Holocaust victims.
• Užutrakis Manor – restored 19th-century manor.
• Paneriai Memorial Museum – Holocaust memorial in a forest where tens of thousands of Jews lost their lives.
• Ventė Cape – headland of Nemunas Delta and a bird-watchers paradise.
• Stelmužė Oak – with over 1,000 years, the oldest tree in Lithuania and one of the oldest in Europe.

Needless to say, there is so much more to see and do in Lithuania. But most tourists never visit even half of these places… So if you cover even just a small part of the above, you’ll have a much better idea of what Lithuania is truly like.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Lithuania

In order to help you get a better idea of where all these points of interest and attractions are located, I created this map of the best places to see in Lithuania .

The purple color indicates the main landmarks and places mentioned in this article. The orange color is for the other nice points of interest that are mentioned separately here above. In order to keep a more clear overview of the main landmarks in Lithuania, I didn’t indicate all the smaller places that are worth visiting in each of the mentioned towns.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our list of the very best places to see and things to do in Lithuania. I sincerely hope that you found some new ideas in this article and that it has inspired you to explore Lithuania beyond the most popular places like Vilnius and Trakai.

If you have any questions about the places mentioned above, don’t hesitate to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help. Have you been to Lithuania and want to share your experience? Feel free to do so as well!

READ ALSO: Baltics Itinerary: how to see the best of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in 2 weeks

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Featured image by Wide Wings/Shutterstock.com. All the other images by Jurga/FullSuitcase.com

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Monday 25th of March 2024

Really nice blog! We are coming by car in next July from Finland to Latvija. We stay a week in Trakai. We have been there 2019. Last time we came by plane. Now we want see more...I think we also drive daytrip to Druskininkai, We come from Riga to Trakai. From Trakai we drive to Daugavpils.

Sounds like a good plan; Lithuania is wonderful in the summer! Just beware that Trakai (especially the area around the castle) is very busy during the day. Have a great trip!

Gary Kasten

Thursday 14th of March 2024

This is such a wonder presentation. My wife and I are coming to visit. This all started many years ago when we met a gal by the name of Asta who was working in a german night club in Wisconsin Dells Wisconsin in the USA. We still maintain friendship so we are coming to your country. Asta is taking the week off to tour us around your country. She has suguested many thing she would like us to see. Now I haveto read more of your article to let Asta know of other things we might want to do, so thank you for all the information.

Friday 15th of March 2024

Glad to help, Gary, and have a great time in Lithuania!

Saturday 9th of March 2024

What a wonderful article! My husband and I are planning to ride a big loop via motorcycle from England encompassing the Baltics and Scandinavia in June and I have added many of these places to our "hopefully" list! Especially the bee keeping village and Druskininkai. I just love those beautiful little villages, we have nothing like them in Australia. Thank you for sharing these wonderful ideas!

Sunday 10th of March 2024

Sounds like a nice adventure, Georgie. Have a great trip!

Sunday 10th of July 2022

I am so excited to come across your blog and will be using it as a guide when I visit Lithuania in August. Do you recommend having a car to travel to these places - specially from the capital to the sand dunes? Also, do you recommend any healthy favorite restaurants that serve tradition food (not looking for fancy and more for authentic food)? We will be in Lithuania for 4.5 days.

Thursday 14th of July 2022

@Jurga, thank you so much for taking the time reply. Will definitely take your advice. Looking forward to the trip!

Wednesday 13th of July 2022

Hi Kanch, if you just have 4-5 days in Lithuania and want to travel all the way to the Curonian Spit from Vilnius, then yes, I definitely recommend hiring a car. Just be sure not to speed - Lithuanian police is usually very active, especially in the areas you'd least expect it. For restaurants, there are so many restaurants serving traditional Lithuanian food all over the country (even next to the main highways). Most of them are rather simple, low-key restaurants, just like Lithuanian dishes. The best way to find them is to simply ask for recommendations at your accommodation. They usually know all the best places nearby. I also always read the reviews on Google Maps - it helps to avoid disappointments. Have a great trip!

Larry Reibstein

Wednesday 21st of April 2021

Hi -- Just discovered this marvelous blog and this article is wonderfully timely as we're planning a trip to Lithuania in 2022, Covid willing. I have a specific question and hope I'm not imposing on you. We recently discovered, through my daughter's hard work, that our family goes back to Kaunas (Kovno), your home town, with relatives found dating to 1774. I'm looking for resources either there, whom we could meet, or elsewhere that offers information on local Lithuanian ancestry and might have records we can dig into and further research. A scholar, a university office, a foundation of some sort or a government office, perhaps? Alternatively, are there travel agencies that focus on ancestry travel there? Thank you for any guidance and again sincerely hope I'm not imposing on your busy days!

Friday 23rd of April 2021

Hi Larry, I was just reading some articles in Lithuania and there are apparently some companies that specialize in this kind of research, but I have no idea how they work and what it costs, or if you can find any free info. To start with, you could try the official archives and otherwise, I think you'll just have to search online for companies/people that might be able to help you. I don't have any personal experience with this and I don't know anyone who does that. I found a websites that seems to be offering this kind of service - see True Lithuania. Also this website seems to have quite some useful info. Hope this helps, Larry, and I hope you can make that trip happen next year!

Home » Travel Guides » Lithuania » 15 Best Places to Visit in Lithuania

15 Best Places to Visit in Lithuania

The first stop on the Baltic trio has a whole load of must-sees and must-do sites up its sleeve.

Forged by long alliances with Poland to the west, conflicts with Russia and Sweden and the Teutonic Knights, and shaped by Slavic builders and Orthodox faiths to name just some of the influences, it’s hardly surprising that Lithuania has so many interesting places for the budding traveler.

Let’s explore the best places to visit in Lithuania :

The historic capital of the Grand Duchy is a veritable treasure trove of medieval wonders and gorgeous Gothic come Russo-flavoured Baroque architecture.

In the Old Town, cobbled roadways weave under the buttresses of the beautiful St Anne’s Church, over café-spattered plazas and under the soaring Gediminas Keep and Upper Castle citadel dating from the 13th century.

Meanwhile, the new town’s blocks pulse with beer bars and sleepless rock clubs, and Europe’s boho district extraordinaire – the self-proclaimed Republic of Uzupis – beckons on the edge of town, a place of shabby-chic, graffiti-strewn streets and more drinking joints than you can shake a cepelinai potato dumpling at!

Jutting out over the confluences of the Nemunas and Neris rivers right in the heartlands of central Lithuania, the second-city of Kaunas proudly stakes its claim as the country’s alternative hub and partying capital.

Thousands of students drive the nightlife, which bubbles up on the tree-shaded boulevard of Laisves Aleja and between the countless craft bars and underground drinkeries of the historic centre, while daytime means seeking out the crumbling bulwarks of the red-brick Kaunas Castle and wandering the enchanting cobblestone alleys of the Old Town – Kaunas’ prettiest district and the home of charming medieval merchant guilds and one gorgeous city hall.

Then there’s the exhibitions dedicated to M. K. Ciurlionis (arguably Lithuania’s best-known artist), which simply shouldn’t be missed!

UNESCO-attested Kernave is steeped in a history and heritage that goes back further than many of the other towns in Lithuania.

It’s hailed as one of the first ever medieval capitals of the Grand Duchy, and it’s thought that the golden age boom happened here in the 13th and 14th centuries, before the onslaught of the Teutonic Order came and razed the fortifications and keeps.

Today, travelers who make their way to the archaeological reserves lining the meanders of the Neris River can spy out mounds (literally!) of relics, now clad in earth but concealing layer upon layer of bulwarks and burial sites, throne rooms and more, and tracing back to the late Palaeolithic Period no less!

4. Klaipeda

Erstwhile Memel was once one of the strongholds of Teutonic rule in the Baltic, later becoming a thriving port and trading town of the Duchy of Prussia, and then the northernmost city in the German Empire of the late 19th century.

Today, Klaipeda bursts with relics of this 800-year-long history, all the while combining them with the more modern edge and nightlife scene expected of the touristic gateway to the Curonian Spit (Lithuania’s most famous coastal stretch). That means travelers can weave between curious sculptures and cobbled squares in the Old Town, hit Lithuanian taverns to sip the locally-brewed beer and case out the bulwarks of Klaipeda Castle all in the same day, and that’s not even mentioning the medieval docksides, the cannong-dotted Prussian bastions and the German-styled beer halls of the main square!

A patchwork of verdant pine forests and flat grasslands, undulating dunes and sandy beaches that curves its way along the Baltic Coast where Lithuania arches towards its long-time Polish compadre in European history and the curious Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, Neringa is one of the most coveted destinations in the country for sure.

Encompassing the whole Lithuanian length of the Curonian Spit, the area offers prime biking and hiking, windsurfing and fishing on the waters of the Curonian Lagoon, the sun-kissed resort strips of Nida and the earthy cottages that makeup age-old towns like Pervalka.

Then there’s Thomas Mann’s charming cottage to see, and the various artist workshops and galleries that sprouted here with the German exodus out of Konigsberg in the 1800s.

Palanga has become a byword for summertime hedonism amongst Lithuanians right across the country, and today this one’s high-season electro and chart parties rage from June to August on the Jonas Basanavicius boulevard and amidst the countless bars and al fresco cocktail joints that line its fringes.

The beach is another magnet during the dog days, offering perhaps Lithuania’s most accessible and sunbather-friendly stretch of golden Baltic sand.

But it’s not all late nights and lazy afternoons in Palanga either.

There’s the picturesque neo-Renaissances charm of the Tiskeviciai Palace to see too, along with the interesting Amber Museum, and the nature reserves of the Curonian Spit nearby!

7. Dzukija National Park

Lithuania’s largest national park covers a whopping 550 square kilometers of land, and makes its home on the edge of the Belarusian border in the extreme south-east of the country.

It’s adorned with great swathes of pine forests and riparian wetlands, all of which come cut through by the meandering channels of the Nemunas River.

Inland dunes are an interesting feature too, rising and dropping to sandy peaks and troughs and playing host to a kaleidoscope of different grasses and rock strata.

Boardwalk treks delve deep into the woods for those donning the hiking boots, while mushrooms bloom in the undergrowth and traditional waxwork crafting abounds in the rural villages.

Trakai is a fantastical fragmentation of islets and grassy hills, shimmering waters and rolling meadows.

It makes its home just a little to the west of the capital at Vilnius and draws crowds of travelers and locals right throughout the year.

Many come to wonder at the Lord of the Rings-style castle that forms the heart of the Trakai Historical National Park; a sprouting of red-brick keeps and turrets that mirrors perfectly against the lake waters all around.

Others come for the summertime recreation that clusters around the banks of the trio of large lakes: Akmena, Galve, Skaistis.

Then there’s the curious multicultural remainders of the Karaim community – a unique Turkic tribe that still uses the pretty timber Trakai Kenesa synagogue that’s seen on-site.

9. Anyksciai

Sat midway between Kaunas and the Latvian border in the east, the indelibly green town of Anyksciai offers a natural getaway balanced with some truly handsome religious architecture.

Check out the soaring Gothic spires of the red-brick Basilica of Apostle Evangelist St Matthew that dominate the banks of the meandering Sventoji here.

With a history going back more than 500 years, this striking construction now touts the tallest church towers in all of Lithuania and some bright stained-glass works by the revered artist Anorte Mackelaite.

After that, be sure to dust off the walking boots (if summer) or wax down the skis (if winter), because Anyksciai has also got the humble ski resort of Kalitos Kalnas and endless arrays of hiking trails on its peripheries.

10. Druskininkai

Moneyed, manicured Druskininkai is the prime spa town in all of Lithuania.

It was famed as far back as the 1600s, under the Grand Duke Stanislaw August Poniatowski, and then rose to prominence in the 19th century with the patronage of one tsar Nicholas I of Russia no less.

The city continues to go from strength to strength, and today its gilded mansions and spa facilities ooze with the chatter of well-to-do Muscovites and city livers.

But mineral-packed waters and healing powers aside, the spot also hails in as the onetime home of Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis (and there’s a fine museum chronicling the artist’s life), and the spot of the all-new Forest Museum – an immersive exhibition that takes visitors on a haunting journey through Lithuanian folklore and witchery.

11. Panevezys

Lithuania’s fifth-largest cityscape can be found sprawled out on the rolling floodplains of the Nevezis River, in the very heartlands of the country’s northern reaches.

Once a royal charter town in the boom days of the Grand Duchy, the city was rumbled and rocked and razed with the Industrial Revolution and tumultuous European conflicts of the 20th century.

That said, some remnants of the pre-war elegance do remain, whether in the ochre-hued facades and Russian Imperialist styles of the city cathedral, or the lines of aged cottages that occasionally pop up amidst the utilitarian blocks courtesy of Stalin et al.

12. Siauliai

Most people who flock to the post-industrial, onetime Soviet powerhouse city of Siauliai come in search of the legendary Hill of Crosses, which rises in a haunting array of crucifixes and effigies of Christ to the north of the town proper.

However, linger just a little in this off-the-beaten-track center and you’ll discover an array of pretty tree-lined streets, a buzzing café culture, and a gorgeous local cathedral with eye-catching whitewashed faces and a spiked tower.

Be sure to stroll the cobbles of Povilas Visinskis Square, too and flit in and out of the curious and quirky exhibitions on offer at the town’s Bicycle Museum and Radio and TV tech institutes.

13. Aukstaitija National Park

The first ever national park in Lithuania continues to turn heads with its beautiful backcountry patchwork of old growth pine forests and nigh on 30 individual lakes and river ways.

Yes sir, Aukstaitija is a veritable outdoorsy gem of the country’s north-east, offering adventurous types a glimpse of the famed riparian wilds that roll all over this section of the Baltic.

Deer stalk the woodland paths here, while rushes sway on the banks of colossal Lake Tauragnas.

Meanwhile, ancient artifacts and rustic villages draw the attention of anthropologists (it’s thought this area has been inhabited for more than 11,000 years!), and there are haunting burial sites and timber churches to rival even the Viking mounds and staves of Scandinavia.

14. Plateliai

Standing right in the midst of another of Lithuania’s great natural jewels, Plateliai is the much-loved gateway to the Zemaitija National Park, which crowns the grassy Zemaiciu Highland region just a short way from the salt-washed coast of the Baltic Sea.

The verdant and lush surroundings here make for great walking, and even host attractions like the Plokstine missile base left over by the Soviets – now home to the fascinating Cold War Museum.

In the town of Plateliai itself, visitors can spy out one gorgeous timber church from the 1700s, or opt to leave the city streets for a jaunt along the banks of the eponymous lake, where grassy meadows and laid-back hotels but right up to the water’s edge.

15. Rumsiskes

Creaking windmills and faded wooden cottages clad in moss and sod mark out Rumsiskes from the ever encroaching districts of Kaunas that neighbour it.

Unfortunately, the creation of a reservoir in the middle of the 20th century submerged great portions of the old town here, while efforts to preserve the centuries of history associated with the site gave rise to the largest open-air ethnography museum in the entire Baltic region: The Open-Air Museum of Lithuania.

Travelers who make their way here today can expect re-enactment tours and traditional architecture aplenty, along with collections of historic furnishings, clothing, religious iconography and more.

15 Best Places to Visit in Lithuania:

• Dzukija National Park
• Druskininkai
• Aukstaitija National Park

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Lithuania Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Nestled in the heart of the Baltic region, Lithuania welcomes visitors with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Steeped in a fascinating past that includes medieval grandeur, Soviet influence, and a resilient spirit of independence, Lithuania boasts enchanting old towns, architectural marvels, and serene landscapes. Vilnius, the capital, captivates with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, while Trakai Castle, set on a tranquil lake, showcases the country’s medieval heritage. The Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with pristine sand dunes and pine forests along the Baltic Sea. Lithuania’s warm hospitality, vibrant festivals, and a burgeoning contemporary scene make it a compelling destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of history and modern allure.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

The best time to visit Lithuania as a tourist depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek, as each season offers its unique charm.

• Summer is the peak tourist season, characterized by mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and vibrant green landscapes. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the country’s natural beauty, including the Curonian Spit and Lithuania’s lakes.
• Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. It’s an ideal time for those who enjoy sightseeing without the peak-season hustle. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn showcases colorful foliage.
• Winter in Lithuania can be cold with temperatures often below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports like cross-country skiing or are drawn to festive holiday markets, this season can be magical. Vilnius and other cities are adorned with holiday decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Lithuania depends on your interests and the type of experience you desire. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of summer festivals, the tranquility of spring or autumn, or the charm of a winter wonderland, Lithuania has something to offer year-round.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Lithuania offers various transportation options for tourists to explore its cities, towns, and scenic landscapes. Here are some recommended ways to get around Lithuania:

• Buses: Lithuania has an extensive and well-connected bus network that reaches cities, towns, and even remote areas. Buses are a cost-effective and efficient way to travel between locations.
• Trains: The railway network connects major cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda. Trains provide a comfortable and scenic way to travel across the country.
• Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Lithuania, especially if you want to venture into more remote areas or picturesque landscapes. The road infrastructure is well-maintained, and driving allows for flexibility in your itinerary.
• Taxis are readily available in urban areas and can be a convenient option for short trips within cities. It’s advisable to use reputable taxi services, and you can ask your accommodation for recommendations.
• Lithuania is a bike-friendly country, and many cities have dedicated bike lanes. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore urban areas, parks, and scenic routes. Vilnius, in particular, offers a bike-sharing system.
• While Lithuania is a small country, there are domestic flights available. However, for most tourists, flying is not necessary for domestic travel, as ground transportation is efficient.
• Many Lithuanian cities, especially the historic Old Towns, are pedestrian-friendly. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, explore narrow streets, and discover hidden gems.
• Guided tours and packages are available for specific attractions or regions. These can be convenient for those who prefer a structured itinerary with a knowledgeable guide.
• Besides local buses, long-distance coaches connect major cities and towns. This can be a comfortable and affordable option for traveling between regions.

Choose the transportation mode based on your preferences, the distance you plan to cover, and the experiences you seek. Public transportation is generally reliable, and the compact size of Lithuania makes it easy to navigate by various means.

What’s the Official Language?

The official language of Lithuania is Lithuanian. Here are some useful Lithuanian phrases for tourists:

• Hello – Labas
• Goodbye – Viso gero
• Please – Prašau
• Thank you – Ačiū
• Yes – Taip
• No – Ne
• Excuse me / I’m sorry – Atsiprašau
• Do you speak English? – Ar kalbate angliškai?
• Help – Pagalba
• How much is this? – Kiek tai kainuoja?
• Where is…? – Kur yra…?
• I don’t understand – Aš nesuprantu
• I need a doctor – Man reikia gydytojo
• Cheers! – Į sveikatą!
• Good morning – Labas rytas
• Good evening – Labas vakaras
• My name is… – Mano vardas…
• What’s your name? – Koks jūsų vardas?
• Where are you from? – Iš kur jūs esate?
• I love Lithuania – Aš myliu Lietuvą

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience and often be appreciated by locals. While many Lithuanians, especially in urban areas, speak English, making an effort to use their language can go a long way in fostering positive interactions.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Lithuania offers a variety of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here are some recommended places to stay in Lithuania:

• Old Town: Vilnius’ Old Town is a popular choice for accommodation. It boasts charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. There are numerous hotels, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations in this area.
• Užupis District: Known for its artistic and bohemian vibe, Užupis is an alternative neighborhood with unique accommodations. It’s within walking distance of the Old Town.
• Business District: If you prefer a more modern setting, consider staying in the business district, where you’ll find international chain hotels and convenient access to amenities.
• Old Town: Kaunas’ Old Town is characterized by its medieval architecture and lively ambiance. Many hotels and guesthouses offer a comfortable stay while being close to historical attractions.
• City Center: The city center also provides various accommodation options, with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural sites.
• Old Town and Port Area: Klaipėda’s Old Town and the nearby port area are popular for accommodation. The Old Town exudes maritime charm, while the port area offers scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
• Around Lake Galvė: Trakai is famous for its stunning castle on Lake Galvė. Staying in the vicinity of the lake allows you to enjoy picturesque views and easy access to the castle.
• Seafront: Palanga, a popular seaside resort, offers accommodations along the seafront. This area provides a beachy atmosphere and proximity to the Baltic Sea.
• City Center: Druskininkai, known for its spa resorts and wellness facilities, has accommodations in the city center. This area offers convenience for exploring local attractions.
• If you’re interested in experiencing Lithuania’s rural charm, consider staying in guesthouses or farmsteads in the countryside. This provides an opportunity to connect with nature and local traditions.

When choosing accommodation, consider your preferences, budget, and the activities you plan to engage in. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Major online travel platforms can help you find a variety of options tailored to your needs.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Lithuania boasts a rich culinary tradition, with dishes that reflect the country’s agricultural heritage and historic influences. Here are some must-try Lithuanian foods for tourists:

• These potato dumplings are typically filled with minced meat, curd, or mushrooms. They are often served with sour cream and bacon bits, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.
• This refreshing pink soup is made with beets, kefir (fermented milk), cucumbers, dill, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s a popular summer dish, known for its vibrant color and unique taste.
• Kugelis is a traditional Lithuanian potato dish, often described as a potato pudding or cake. It consists of grated potatoes, bacon, onions, eggs, and milk, creating a dense and savory dish.
• Potato pancakes are a common Lithuanian dish, especially during celebrations. They are made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, eggs, and seasoning, then fried until golden brown.
• This popular snack features rye bread cubes fried until crispy and then rubbed with garlic. It’s often served with cheese or various spreads.
• Koldūnai are small, filled dumplings that can be boiled or fried. They are typically filled with meat, mushrooms, or curd and served with sour cream or butter.
• Lithuania’s proximity to the Baltic Sea makes smoked fish a delicacy. Try smoked eel, herring, or lamprey for a taste of the local seafood.
• Skilandis is a Lithuanian sausage made from minced meat, garlic, and various spices. It’s air-dried and smoked, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic sausage.
• Herring is a staple in Lithuanian cuisine. Try it marinated and served with onions for a classic taste of the sea.
• Šakotis is a traditional Lithuanian cake resembling a tree. It’s made by layering thin batter on a rotating spit, creating a unique and visually appealing dessert.

Don’t forget to accompany your meals with Lithuanian beer, which is well-regarded for its quality and variety. Exploring local markets and traditional restaurants is a great way to experience the diverse flavors of Lithuanian cuisine.

What to See? 🔍

Lithuania is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-see places for tourists:

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Vilnius Old Town, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic sites such as Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Castle, and the Gate of Dawn.
• Located on an island in Lake Galvė, Trakai Castle is a picturesque medieval fortress surrounded by water. It offers a glimpse into Lithuania’s history and is easily accessible from Vilnius.
• The Hill of Crosses is a unique and sacred site covered in thousands of crosses, each representing a prayer or a memory. It’s a powerful symbol of resistance and faith.
• This UNESCO World Heritage site is a narrow sand dune peninsula that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. It features stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages.
• Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, has a charming Old Town with medieval architecture, vibrant markets, and the impressive Kaunas Castle overlooking the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers.
• Located on the Curonian Spit, the Hill of Witches is an outdoor sculpture gallery featuring wooden sculptures depicting characters from Lithuanian folklore and pagan traditions.
• Although located just across the border in Latvia, Rundale Palace is a magnificent Baroque palace worth visiting. It was designed by the same architect who created the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg.
• Immerse yourself in nature at Aukštaitija National Park, known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and traditional wooden villages. It’s an excellent destination for hiking, boating, and exploring Lithuanian folklore.
• Another national park offering beautiful landscapes, Žemaitija National Park features lakes, rivers, and the iconic wooden Žemaitija Hillfort, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Explore the stunning Amber Museum housed in a 19th-century palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. The museum showcases a unique collection of amber, often referred to as “Baltic gold.”

These are just a few highlights, and Lithuania has much more to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or cultural experiences, Lithuania has a diverse range of attractions to explore.

What to Do? 📸

Lithuania offers a range of activities that cater to various interests. Here are some must-do things for tourists in Lithuania:

• Discover the history and charm of Vilnius by exploring its Old Town on foot. Join a guided walking tour to visit key landmarks, hidden gems, and learn about the city’s rich history.
• Hike or take a funicular to the Three Crosses Hill for panoramic views of Vilnius. The crosses are a symbol of the city and offer a picturesque setting for photography.
• Experience Lithuanian culture by attending a traditional song and dance festival, known as a “Dainų šventė.” These events celebrate the country’s folk traditions and are held periodically.
• Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Galvė to get closer to Trakai Castle and explore the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a relaxing way to appreciate the landscapes.
• Immerse yourself in Lithuanian traditions by joining a folk workshop. Learn to make traditional crafts, try your hand at traditional dances, or participate in a cooking class.
• Spend a day or more relaxing on the sandy beaches of the Curonian Spit. The beaches offer a peaceful retreat, and the unique landscape adds to the overall experience.
• Basketball is the most popular sport in Lithuania, and attending a game is a cultural experience. Cheer for a local team and witness the passion that Lithuanians have for this sport.
• Located in Rumsiskes, the Open-Air Museum provides a glimpse into traditional Lithuanian rural life. Explore authentic wooden buildings, learn about traditional crafts, and experience rural customs.
• Gain insights into Lithuania’s complex history by visiting the Museum of Genocide Victims in Vilnius. The museum is located in the former KGB headquarters and documents the country’s Soviet occupation.
• Savor Lithuanian cuisine by trying cepelinai, the iconic potato dumplings. Visit a local restaurant to enjoy this hearty dish, often served with sour cream and bacon.
• Experience Lithuania from above by taking a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy breathtaking views of landscapes, lakes, and historic sites.
• Witness the Hill of Crosses at sunset for a magical and serene experience. The atmosphere becomes even more mystical as the sun sets behind this iconic pilgrimage site.

These activities offer a mix of cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, and culinary delights, providing a well-rounded experience of Lithuania.

Culture and Safety 🦺

Culture in Lithuania:

Lithuania has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its history, traditions, and influences from neighboring countries. Here are some cultural aspects to keep in mind when traveling to Lithuania:

• The predominant religion in Lithuania is Roman Catholicism. Many cultural traditions and festivals are tied to religious celebrations, so it’s respectful to be aware of and appreciate these customs.
• Lithuanian is the official language, and while many Lithuanians speak English, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Lithuanian phrases as a gesture of goodwill.
• Lithuania has preserved some pagan and folk traditions that are celebrated through festivals, rituals, and crafts. Participating in or observing these events can provide a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural identity.
• Lithuanians are known for their hospitality. If invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift for the host. A polite demeanor and expressing appreciation for the local culture are valued.
• Lithuania has a vibrant arts scene with a strong tradition of choral singing and traditional music. Attend cultural events, concerts, and art exhibitions to experience the country’s creative expressions.
• Lithuanians have a deep connection to nature, and many cultural practices involve outdoor activities. Respect for the environment is important, so follow local guidelines for responsible tourism.

Safety in Lithuania:

Lithuania is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s essential to be aware of common safety practices:

• Lithuania has a relatively low crime rate, but like any destination, be cautious in crowded areas and public transport. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
• Lithuania has a well-developed healthcare system. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. The emergency number is 112 for any urgent medical assistance.
• Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. Exercise normal precautions when using public transport or taxis, and be cautious while crossing the streets.
• Lithuania uses the Euro (EUR). Be mindful of your valuables and use safes provided by accommodations to store important items.
• Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. For example, smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, and it’s illegal to drink alcohol in public places.
• The emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance is 112.

As in any destination, staying informed, respecting local customs, and practicing common sense contribute to a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Lithuania. Always check for any travel advisories or updates before your trip.

In conclusion, Lithuania offers a captivating blend of rich history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding destination for travelers. From the enchanting cobblestone streets of Vilnius Old Town to the serene landscapes of the Curonian Spit, visitors can explore a diverse range of attractions. Immerse yourself in the warmth of Lithuanian hospitality, savor traditional cuisine, and witness the country’s unique blend of Catholic and pagan traditions. With a strong emphasis on preserving its heritage and a commitment to welcoming tourists, Lithuania invites you to discover its enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultural tapestry. Whether you seek historical insights, outdoor adventures, or simply a tranquil escape, Lithuania promises a memorable and enriching experience for every traveler.

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Explore Lithuania

Plan your trip to lithuania: best of lithuania tourism.

Essential Lithuania

Trending in the forums

Lithuania Is Great For

Art & history.

Historic sites

Eat & drink

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Climate
• 4.2 Terrain
• 4.3 History
• 4.4 National holidays
• 4.5 Visitor information
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By train
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.1 By train
• 7.3.1 Rules
• 7.3.3 Car rental
• 7.4 By taxi
• 7.5 By bicycle
• 7.6 By thumb
• 10.2 Tipping
• 10.3 Shopping
• 16 Stay safe
• 17 Stay healthy
• 19.1 Land line phones
• 19.2 Mobile phones
• 19.3 International calls
• 19.4 Internet
• 19.5 Post office

Lithuania ( Lithuanian : Lietuva ) is a Baltic country in northeastern Europe . Lithuania possesses a unique character that distinguishes it from other Baltic countries. Its distinctiveness arises from being primarily a Catholic nation and having a history of being part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth , which was one of the most powerful entities in Northern Europe.

Lithuania is a charming country with a rich history and culture that is definitely worth exploring. From the charming streets of Vilnius , the capital city, to the serene beauty of the Curonian Spit, there are plenty of reasons to add Lithuania to your travel bucket list.

Regions [ edit ]

Regional differences of Lithuanian culture reflect the complicated historical development of the country. Since the 13th century five ethnographic areas, or regions, have formed the current territory of Lithuania:

These ethnographic regions even today differ by dialects, ways of life and behaviour styles, while until the turn of the last century there were pronounced differences in dress and homestead styles as well as village planning.

Lithuania is justly proud of its unfailing treasures of folklore: colourful clothing, meandering songs, an abundance of tales and stories, sonorous dialects and voluble language. This ethnographic heritage is nourished by ethnographic and folklore companies and barn theatres. Ethnographic crafts and culinary traditions are being revived. Folk craft fairs and live craft days are organised during many events and festivals.

Cities [ edit ]

• 54.687222 25.28 1 Vilnius — capital of the country with many medieval churches
• 55.072222 24.280556 2 Jonava
• 54.9 23.933333 3 Kaunas — second biggest city and temporary capital between the two world wars
• 55.7125 21.135 4 Klaipėda — third biggest city, famous for its summer festivals
• 55.725 24.363889 5 Panevėžys
• 55.928056 23.316667 6 Šiauliai — fourth biggest city, with a sun theme and specialist museums
• 54.633333 24.933333 7 Trakai — on the shores of several lakes

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 55.344 26.057 1 Aukštaitija National Park — a land of lakes, hills and forests, popular for water tourism and rural tourism in the summer
• 55.274444 20.970833 2 Curonian Spit — unique sand dunes with rare flora, seaboard forest, white sanded beaches and old ethnographic villages
• 54.894 25.305 6 Purnuskes — according to some measures the centre of Europe
• 56.116667 22.016667 7 Žemaičių Kalvarija — famous pilgrimage site, most visitors come in the beginning of July to visit the large church festival

Understand [ edit ]

Some visitors tend to see the Baltic states as being similar countries with regional differences. They share a common recent history: the three countries declared independence in 1918 at the collapse of the Russian Empire , were occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940, conquered by Nazi Germany in 1941, and incorporated into the Soviet Union from 1944 until independence was restored in 1991. However, there are differences between the countries' languages (Estonians speak a Finnic language unlike Latvia or Lithuania) and religion (Lithuanians are Catholics, Latvians are mostly Lutherans and Estonians are irreligious). Also, Lithuania is more oriented towards Central Europe, while Estonia is oriented towards Northern Europe).

Since 2004, Lithuania has been a member of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Lithuania is the only Baltic country with more than 800 years of statehood tradition, while its name was first mentioned one thousand years ago, in 1009. For a period in the 15th century, Lithuania was one of the largest states in all Europe, where crafts and overseas trade prospered.

In 1579, Vilnius University, an important scientific and educational centre on the European scale, was opened. In the 16th century, Lithuania adopted its First, Second and Third Statutes. They were the backbone of the legislative system of the country, and had a major impact on the legislation of other European states of the time. Despite merging with Poland and losing its independence, Lithuania managed to keep its Third Statute in effect for as many as 250 years, which was instrumental in preservation of national and civic self-awareness of the public. The Constitution of Lithuania-Poland together with the French Constitution, both adopted in 1791, were the first written constitutions in Europe. Lithuania was part of the Russian Empire in the nineteenth century, became independent after World War I, and was annexed to the Soviet Union in 1940, before again gaining its independence in 1991.

Climate [ edit ]

Transitional, between maritime and continental; wet, moderate winters (average of -5 °C) and summers (average of +16 °C). Climate is maritime near the seaside with wet, mild summers and winters. Climate in South-Eastern Lithuania is influenced by the continental weather masses with dry, warmer summers and harsher winters.

Summer months receive the most precipitation (up to 50% of the annual precipitation), autumn and winter are drier with spring being the driest season. Snow occurs every year, it can snow from October to April. In some years sleet can fall in September or May.

Terrain [ edit ]

Lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil. The fertile central plains are separated by hilly uplands that are ancient glacial deposits.

The highest point, Aukstojas Hill, is just 294.84 m (967.322 ft), about 24 km southeast of Vilnius , just off the main highway to Minsk and within sight of the Belarus border. 30% of Lithuania is forest covered.

History [ edit ]

Lithuania was formed in the middle of the 13th century. It became a huge feudal country stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea in the Middle Ages, and in 1569 entered a union with Poland to form a commonwealth. Lithuania was part of the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth until the Polish Partitions in the 18th century when it became part of the Russian Empire .

Modern Lithuania gained its independence from Russia in 1918 following World War I and the dissolution of the Czarist monarchy. However, in 1940 Lithuania was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union, and shortly thereafter occupied by the Nazis, who murdered almost its entire hitherto very prominent Jewish population and many local Poles, with help from local collaborators. Later in World War II, the Soviet Union recaptured Lithuania and also brutally persecuted and killed many Lithuanians, particularly during Stalin's reign of terror. On 11 March 1990, Lithuania became the first of the Soviet republics to declare its independence, but this proclamation was not generally recognised until September 1991, following an abortive coup in Moscow. The Soviet Union recognised Lithuania's independence on 6 September 1991. A constitution was adopted on 25 October 1992. The last Russian troops withdrew in 1993. Lithuania restructured its economy for integration into Western European institutions and became a stable democracy and a member of the European Union and NATO.

Lithuania received comparatively fewer Russian immigrants than the other two Baltic states during the Soviet era, and the town of Visaginas is the only one with an ethnic Russian majority. However, significant ethnic Russian minorities exist in Lithuania's major cities. Lithuania was the only one of the three Baltic states to grant citizenship to its ethnic Russian minority following its independence from the Soviet Union.

National holidays [ edit ]

• Independence Day – 16 February : Independence from Russian Empire in 1918 following World War I.
• Restitution of Independence – 11 March : Restoration of independence from the Soviet Union.
• St. John's Day – 24 June: Despite its Christian name, celebrated mostly according to pagan traditions (Midsummer's Day).
• Statehood Day – 6 July : Commemorates the coronation in 1253 of Mindaugas as the first and only King of Lithuania. Later rulers of Lithuania were called Grand Dukes.
• Christmas – 25 December

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Lithuania Travel

Talk [ edit ]

The official language of Lithuania is Lithuanian , making up one of two languages (along with Latvian ) of the Baltic branch of the Indo-European family. Despite Lithuanian's closeness to many other European languages, its antiquated grammar makes it a notoriously difficult language to master. To become fluent in the language, it takes almost a year of study. Having saying that, any attempt to speak the language or acquire a few words will be enthusiastically received by the people. Lithuanians are fully aware that their language is difficult for foreigners to understand, and they do not expect you to be proficient in it.

English is widely spoken by the younger generation who grew up after independence, but the older generation who grew up under Soviet rule typically do not speak any English. Lithuanians who speak English are usually keen to practise it with foreigners.

Russian is commonly used as a second language in Lithuania, although its use is dwindling as most younger Lithuanians prefer to study English. Notwithstanding this tendency, Lithuania is home to a sizable ethnic Russian minority who speak Russian as their first language. According to EU data, 40% of Lithuanians speak Russian. In general, older generations are more fluent in Russian than younger generations, but the younger generation that was educated after independence is more likely to speak English than Russian. Younger ethnic Russians educated after independence are more likely to speak Lithuanian as a second language. Older ethnic Russians who were educated during the Soviet era, on the other hand, usually do not speak any Lithuanian.

Because of Lithuania's complicated and turbulent history with Russia, some ethnic Lithuanians may take offence if they are addressed in Russian. The usage of Russian may be interpreted as a lack of respect for Lithuanian language and culture, especially in delicate political circumstances or situations.

Other spoken languages include Polish and German , but their use is limited to a few pockets in the country.

In Samogitia (Western Lithuania), most people also speak Samogitian, which is somewhat different from Standard Lithuanian.

Get in [ edit ]

Lithuania is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

By plane [ edit ]

Most airlines arrive at Vilnius International Airport ( VNO  IATA ), the main airport. Low cost carriers serve Kaunas International Airport ( KUN  IATA ). And there is the smaller seaside Palanga airport ( PLQ  IATA ).

Riga ( RIX  IATA ) airport in Latvia is an attractive alternative for destinations in northern Lithuania. Other alternatives not far from the border are Minsk ( MSQ  IATA ) and Kaliningrad ( KGD  IATA ).

By train [ edit ]

From Poland: a daily train runs from Krakow at 04:00 via Warsaw Centralna at 07:30 to reach the border towards 15:00. Here you change onto the Lithuanian train for Kaunas at 16:30 and Vilnius at 17:30. (If you flew into Warsaw, you could take any train to Białystok then join the cross-border train at a more congenial 10:30 next morning.) The westbound train sets off from Vilnius at noon.

Another train lumbers on Saturday and Sunday between Białystok and Kaunas on the old route via Mariampole, which pre-dates the Rail Baltica line. So it's overtaken by the Krakow-Vilnius train and you'd only use it to reach one of the villages along the old route.

From Belarus: the trains from Minsk are suspended in 2022.

From Russia: the trains from the exclave of Kaliningrad are suspended in 2022, as are the services via Minsk from Moscow and other Russian cities.

From Latvia: since 27 December 2023 there is now one direct train each way running between Riga and Vilnius, departing Riga at 15:28 and arriving in Vilnius at 19:51. See LTG Link's page for more information.

By car [ edit ]

Major " Via Baltica " road links Kaunas to Warsaw in the south and Riga and Tallinn in the north. The Baltic road, which links Vilnius to Tallinn, was just reconstructed. It is a very easy and pleasant route.

Overall, the major roads between the cities are of decent quality. Be extremely cautious when getting off the main roads in rural areas, as some of them may contain pot holes and general blemishes which could damage a regular car if you go too fast. While driving between cities there are usually cafes and gas stations with bathrooms and snacks.

By bus [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ].

There are passenger/car ferries to Klaipeda from Sweden, Germany, Denmark operated by DFDS , Lisco , and Scandlines [dead link] . However they do not run every day and are relatively slow, but most aim to travel overnight.

Get around [ edit ]

State-owned railway passenger service LTG Link has services to major cities in Lithuania as well as an international service from Vilnius to Warsaw and Kraców with a change in Mockava. Most of the trains also stop at smaller stations along the way. Part of those smaller stations is inaccessible by any other means of public transportation. Fares are low compared to Western Europe: Vilnius-Kaunas around €9 – 104 km, Vilnius - Klaipėda around €23 – 376 km (as of Mar 2023). In major railway stations tickets are bought at the ticket office inside the station building until around 5 minutes before the departure. A ticket is valid only on the exact train for which it was sold. However it is possible to buy tickets in advance. When buying tickets for round trip 5% discount is applied for return ticket. Many smaller stops have no ticket offices and tickets are bought from the travel attendant on board the train. In case you board the train in a station with a working ticket office and want to buy a ticket from the travel attendant you will pay an additional fee of €2. However this might be the only option if one arrives too late to the station but manages to catch the train. The same rules for discounts apply as for other public transport in addition to occasional promotional discounts. In particular, there is a 50% discount for students with a Lithuanian Student ID or ISIC. There is also a discount for a group of passengers taking the same train the same day starting at 10% for groups from 3 to 20 people. Tickets are validated by train attendants and must be kept until the end of journey due to sporadic checks by the inspectors.

Depending on the route trains might be faster or slower option than buses or minibuses. Examples of intercity routes where it is faster to go by train is Vilnius-Klaipėda and Vilnius-Kaunas. There are no high-speed railway lines in Lithuania. Where routes overlap trains usually run less frequently than road transport. However train sometimes is the only option to reach remote destinations far from major roads and towns (especially on routes Vilnius-Marcinkonys and Vilnius-Turmantas). This make trains popular among wilderness visitors and citizens looking for wild berries or mushrooms.

In general trains are more spacious than buses making them suitable for those with large bags or oversized items (such as skis, bikes). It is possible to transport bicycles on board of all the trains however special bike-ticket is needed (fee depends on the distance). Most trains have special racks for bicycles located in the first or last car. However these can accommodate only 2-3 bikes and it is not uncommon to simply line the bicycles along the aisle. Such practice is acceptable provided that the bicycles do not restrict movement of people. Most regional trains have a configuration of 3-3 chairs next to 2-2 chairs across the isle. This means that up to 10 people can see each other simultaneously and makes trains popular among larger companies. In some trains 3 seats form one comfortable bench which is long and wide enough to be used as a bed - provided there is enough place for other passengers. Some of the long-distance trains have compartments which can accommodate six seated passengers, usually on Fridays through Sundays.

Historical Aukštaitija Narrow Gauge Railway in Anykščiai offers short trips to the Rubikiai lake. In summer it runs on regular schedule, rest of the time tours must be booked in advance.

In Lithuania it is easy to move by bus and practically all the bigger and most smaller places can be reached by bus. There are two types of intercity buses: express and regional. Express buses stop only at major towns and usually are much faster than regional. Express buses also tend to be much newer and comfortable. Sometimes (but not always) those buses are explicitly labeled as Ekspresas ("express"). It is the best option for longer distance travels between cities. In contrast, regional buses stop at every stop along the way. Thus they usually are slow, for example a 40 km trip can last an hour. Regional buses mainly are old cars that have been imported from the Nordic countries. Service quality in those buses might be lower compared to Western standards. Regional buses are best if you need to reach stations circumvented by express buses. However it is not uncommon for express and regional buses to service the same route thus it is better to ask in advance. Some buses are indirect, i.e. they go via towns out of the direct way between two cities. These are usually labeled as "CityA - CityB per CityC" ( per meaning "via").

Buses operate regularly between the main centres and the regional centres. There is usually a bus company in every town. Some of the biggest and best are TOKS (from Vilnius ), Kautra (from Kaunas ), Klaipėdos autobusų parkas (from Klaipėda ), Busturas from Šiauliai and mini bus company, Transrevis. For students with Lithuanian Student ID, bus companies grant 50% discount around the year. By law for students with ISIC (International Student Identity Card) issued in European Union countries, bus companies should also grant 50% discount. Remember to keep your ticket till the end of journey in case inspectors decide to check the bus in one of the stations.

The bulk of Lithuania's bus routes and turns has been listed in an address autobusubilietai.lt from which you also can reserve the tickets for certain routes. However, pay attention to the fact that the payment system supports only some of the Lithuanian banks, and your credit card at may not work. Another on-line bus ticket service is iticket.lt which has more payment options.

For buses and trolley-buses on routes within towns and cities it is recommended to buy the ticket in advance from a kiosk, board the vehicle using the middle door and stamp the ticket using one of the ticket punches. These used to be near the middle door, but with the introduction of electronic ticketing, there is often a single ticket punch behind the driver's seat. Tickets bought from the driver, rather than kiosks, are more expensive and may also generate an off-handed response if the bus is late or crowded and you don't provide the exact change. Students with Lithuanian Student ID or ISIC (International Student Identity Card) issued in European Union countries are eligible to 50% discount for single tickets and 80% discount for monthly tickets. Inspectors periodically check tickets and will issue a fine if you cannot produce a validated ticket or document proving eligibility to discount. The bus is exited by the middle door and it is important to head for the door before the bus has stopped - it can be impossible to leave once people have started boarding.

In addition to common buses, there are minibuses which usually operate express routes.

There exists a national public transport route planner visiMarsrutai .

As with the rest of mainland Europe, Lithuanian traffic travels on the right, and all distances are posted in kilometres.

The road network in Lithuania is fairly good, especially the motorways. The quality of road surface on minor roads can vary. Many are unpaved and quite shaky. The improvement work hampers traffic in many places. The Via Baltica road goes through Lithuania from Estonia to Poland. Another important road is the A1 from Vilnius to Klaipeda.

Rules [ edit ]

Speed limits for M1 category vehicles:

• 50 km/h inside cities
• 90 km/h on rural roads
• 70 km/h on roads without an asphalt or cement pavement
• 130 km/h (April-October) or 110 km/h (November-March) on highways
• 120 km/h (April-October) or 110 km/h (November-March) on motorways
• headlights should be on at any time of the day

Turning right at a red traffic light is allowed where indicated by a green arrow (square white sign next to the red light, containing a green arrow indicating the permitted direction), provided that it does not endanger other traffic. The absence of such a sign means that turning right on red is not allowed, and the police will stop any driver seen breaking this rule. These signs began to be phased out in 2020, however they can still be found.

Many bigger junctions have a separate green light for traffic turning left, but only one red/yellow light. The green light for the other directions shows arrows going straight and to the right, but these are easily overlooked. Thanks to the white reflective frame around most of these traffic lights, they are most easily identified by their outline.

On two- or three- lane roads, it is polite to move out of the right-hand lane (if safe to do so) when you intend to travel straight ahead; this keeps the right-hand lane clear for right-turning traffic. When moving back to the right hand lane watch out for fast-moving vehicles approaching from behind.

If the right-hand lane is marked with 'A' it is a dedicated bus lane. A lane marked 'A / TAKSI' can also be used by taxis. Electric vehicles may also use this lane if this is indicated. Other road users may only enter the lane in order to turn right into a side road.

The older motorways still have some places in which U-turns are allowed to reach an exit on the opposite carriageway. Usually there is a lower speed limit around these places; the A2 (Vilnius–Panevėžys) has variable speed limit signs which activate when a vehicle is in the U-turn section.

Motorists do not necessarily observe traffic regulations, so especially the pedestrians should exert the same caution as elsewhere in former Soviet countries. Moving domestic animals and roe deer may cause dangerous situations on the roads and motorways.

Roundabouts are a feature of the Lithuanian road network, particularly in the cities. Visitors from countries where this type of junction is uncommon or not used at all, may find the Wikipedia article on roundabouts useful.

The blood alcohol limit is 0.4‰ in Lithuania for drivers of private passenger cars; lower limits apply for other vehicle categories, commercial transport or novice drivers (who have held a drivers license for less than two years).

Fixed speed cameras are frequent along country roads and motorways, usually near crossroads or pedestrian crossings, and in cities. These are usually announced by a sign. Many of them appear to be designed to be turned around from time to time, watching the opposite direction. There is also an increasing number of speed cameras controlling the average speed of the vehicle over the distance.

Fuel [ edit ]

Petrol and diesel fuel is available at all filling stations. LPG is available at most larger stations. EV is more seldom. Petrol nozzles are green, while diesel nozzles are black.

While there are EU fuel markings at filling stations, there is also the local system. Petrol is labelled with a number, which is usually used on the price sign and is displayed on the pump in larger digits. This number is the RON (Research Octane Number) of the fuel. "95" means 95 RON petrol fuel. It is available at all stations. Some stations may also have "98". The price of 98 RON petrol is not usually displayed on the sign; you need to look for the price at the pump.

LPG is labelled as LPG or SND . Stations that provide LPG will also have cabinets with 50-l gas cylinders. These cabinets are usually labelled as DUJŲ BALIONAI ("gas canisters"). A canister costs about €20. These canisters are used mainly for cooking in areas with no natural gas supply, as a cheaper alternative to electric stoves. These canisters are too large to fit into caravans.

Diesel fuel is usually labelled as "D", but it may also be labelled as "DK". Some filling stations (especially rural) may also have diesel nozzles labelled as "DK". These dispense diesel are meant for agricultural purposes, such as powering tractors and other farm equipment. This fuel is sold in bulk to farmers, which store and dispense it at their farm. It is sold at a discount to farmers, but there are 3 catches:

• There is a quota on how much can be purchased,
• you cannot use it in your car, and
• you need to provide a permit to buy this fuel.

EV chargers can be found at some large filling stations and private establishments.

Usually, you pay for fuel at the store, which will have a sign that reads PARDUOTUVĖ . Some stations may also have a self-service machine near the door to the store. You do not usually pay at the pump, except for unattended stations. At most stations, between 22:00 and 06:00, you need to pay before filling up.

Car rental [ edit ]

Some rental companies (especially in the Western EU) may not allow their vehicles to be driven into Lithuania, be sure to check before booking a car. If other modes of transportation do not work for you, you may need to change cars at the border.

Many of the international car rental companies also operate in Lithuania, but the density of rental stations is not as dense as e.g. in Western Europe. If you are near one of the international airports ( Vilnius [dead link] , Kaunas or Palanga , near Klaipėda), check the web site of that airport for any rental car companies which have a presence there.

Apart from that, there are many smaller car rental companies. Many of them will deliver the car to a previously agreed address (usually only within Lithuania) at a prearranged time. Car return works in the same manner; thus even one-way rental is possible. Surcharges might apply, however, for pick-up and return by rendez-vous. Such rental companies can be found through the two major automobile ad portals:

• https://autoplius.lt , Skelbimai > Daugiau > Transporto nuoma > Lengvųjų automobilių nuoma (Classified ads > More > Vehicle rental > Car rental)
• https://autogidas.lt , Nuoma > Automobilių nuoma (Rent > Car rent)

CityBee offers smartphone app based car rental.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are run on a meter and can be booked by the phone numbers shown on the door of the taxi. Taxis are relatively cheap compared to western Europe. Some companies may not be as safe as others, common sense will keep you safe in this regard. "Taking the long way round" used to be common but had nearly been eradicated. However, there still were some reports of foreigners paying more than expected. Keep in mind that it is up to the operator to set embarkation and travel fees. Some taxis waiting at the strategic places (for example airports, bus stations) exploit this by setting fees several times higher than market average. In general it is cheaper to order a taxi by phone instead of taking one in the street. You can also ask to quote the price in advance while ordering taxi by phone or before embarking the car. Some visitors leave small tips for the driver however this is entirely optional.

If you do not need a fancy ride, taxi can be as cheap as €0.37/km. Taxi prices in regional cities tend to be considerable lower than in major cities making them more suitable for out of town trips.

Ride-hailing is available in Lithuania and the following are the most anticipated providers:

• TAKSI 1820 Works only in Vilnius +37052500500
• 1820 (smartphone app)
• Bolt . The most popular ride hailing service which includes many cities. ( updated Apr 2023 )
• Uber . Works only in Vilnius. ( updated Apr 2023 )
• Etransport , ☏ +370 611 11111 . Works in most cities in Lithuania, similar prices to ride hailing. ( updated Apr 2023 )
• Forus (smartphone app)

By bicycle [ edit ]

Cycling in Lithuania is quite popular, however it depends on the exact location as in major cities pavements usually will have a bicycle pathways with numerous signs, although getting around by bicycle in rural areas might become a bit of a challenge. Two international EuroVelo cycle routes across the country, EuroVelo No. 10 and EuroVelo No. 11 equipped with quality signs, bike paths are of excellent quality.

It might be dangerous to leave your bicycle outside alone for more than a few hours without locking it. The international bicycle project BaltiCCycle [dead link] may provide you with an information and help.

By thumb [ edit ]

Hitchhiking in Lithuania is generally good, however there have been some incidents in the early 2020s. Use common sense. Get to the outskirts of the city, but before cars speed up to the highway speeds.

See [ edit ]

The most southern of the Baltic countries, Lithuania's historic heritage sets it quite apart from the other two. Visiting this small but colourful country today, few travelers might guess that this was once the largest nation in Europe. A few monuments are reminders of those golden ages, when the Grand Duchy of Lithuania stretched out far into modern day Russia , Poland and Moldova , but even fewer are still inside the Lithuanian borders. The archaeological site of Kernavė , then a medieval capital, is now a World Heritage Site and has historic hillfort mounds as well as a museum. The Trakai Island Castle in Trakai is sometimes called "Little Mariënburg". It's located on an island and was one of the main strongholds in the prime days of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Although it was severely damaged in 17th century wars with Muscovy, the castle was beautifully restored in the 19th century and is now a popular tourist sight. Kaunas Castle in Kaunas is even older, but only a third of the original building remains.

The country's lovely capital, Vilnius , is a small, pleasant place with a UNESCO listed historic centre. It's the perfect place to admire a range of architectural styles , as it boasts a mixture of gothic, renaissance, baroque and neoclassical buildings. Stroll through the narrow streets and cosy courtyards and kick back for a coffee in one of the many cafés on Pilies Street. Then, walk down Gediminas Avenue, the town's main street lined with governmental buildings and theatres, towards the old neighbourhood of Žvėrynas . With some 65 churches, the famous Gediminas Tower , the Cathedral Square , the Royal Palace , the Presidential Palace and many other monuments and museums, you won't run out of things to see in Vilnius any time soon.

For a day at the sea, the popular seaside resort of Palanga is the place to be. Although it gets crowded in summer, it has some great beaches and beautiful sand dunes. Sand dunes is also what you'll find at the almost 100 km long Curonian Split , which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea coast. It's a World Heritage Site shared between Lithuania and Russia and is best explored from the large port city Klaipėda , which is also a good hub for other seaside resorts on the Baltic coast. Not far from Klaipeda is the village of Juodkrante , which is famous for its Hill of Witches , decorated with sculptures from the country's legends and tales. The fishermen's town of Nida is praised for its shores and ancient ethnographic cemetery.

A few kilometres from the northern city Šiauliai you'll find the remarkable Hill of Crosses , an extraordinary and popular pilgrimage site. Over 100,000 crosses – small, huge, simple and exuberant – have been placed here by faithful from far and wide. On the other side of the country, in the very south, you'll find the popular and classy spa resort town of Druskininkai , surrounded by lakes and rivers.

Like its Baltic neighbours, Lithuania has a lot to offer for nature lovers. Dense forests, hills, beautiful blue lakes and rivers are the main base. The forested Aukštaitija National Park is perhaps the most popular of the country's national parks, and is home to elk, deer and wild boar. Some of the pines you'll see here are up to 200 years old and the park is a safe haven for many plants and birds that are endangered in the rest of the country. The 126 lakes and countless streams in between them make the park a great place for water sports activities and the villages in the park have some interesting wooden churches. Another favourite is the Nemunas Delta . The vast wetlands around the place where Neman River reaches the Baltic Sea are a popular eco-tourism destination and an important bird habitat.

Lithuania has many religious sites , especially of the Catholic faith. All of them are open for people of any religion and background. The most popular pilgrimage sites to visit are:

• Žemaičių Kalvarija in Samogitia (most pilgrims come in July)
• Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai
• Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn , Vilnius
• Šiluva , Samogitia.

Do [ edit ]

If you are searching for some health treatment or recreation the best resorts for that are Druskininkai and Palanga. Neringa is a great option for a nice, calm holiday for becoming one with yourself.

Basketball is the national sport, and the nation is basketball mad, (comparable to the British with Soccer and New Zealand with rugby). Lithuania is one of the most successful teams in international competition, winning medals in three out of four Olympic tournaments, (bronze), and finishing fourth in 2008. All this from just five Olympic appearances. Major domestic clubs are BC Žalgiris from Kaunas and BC Rytas from Vilnius. For this reason in almost every park and playground you will find a basketball court.

Be careful if some people challenge you to a basketball game. Common Lithuanians are very good in basketball, and you might just embarrass yourself.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Lithuania uses the euro , like several other European countries . One euro is divided into 100 cents. The official symbol for the euro is €, and its ISO code is EUR. There is no official symbol for the cent.

All banknotes and coins of this common currency are legal tender within all the countries, except that low-denomination coins (one and two cent) are phased out in some of them. The banknotes look the same across countries, while coins have a standard common design on the reverse, expressing the value, and a national country-specific design on the obverse. The obverse is also used for different designs of commemorative coins. The design of the obverse does not affect the coin's acceptability.

Lithuania adopted the euro as its currency on 31 December 2015, replacing the litas (plural litai or litų ). The old currency was converted to euros at a fixed exchange rate of 1:3.45280 Lt. You can exchange the old currency at the central bank indefinitely.

Tipping [ edit ]

5% is the standard tipping amount, but in some cases the 5% tip is already included in service charge.

Shopping [ edit ]

Lithuania has a lot of shopping malls for such a small population. There is no big difference between shopping malls here and in western Europe. Especially, Lithuania has become a shopping tourism destination for citizens of Belarus and Russia where some items are not available or cost considerably more.

Vilnius has become a shopper's paradise when plenty of massive shopping centres were opened all over the city. Akropolis (a chain of shopping malls in Lithuania) is one of them and definitely worth visiting if you are a shopping malls maniac, as it houses an ice skating rink, bowling lanes and a cinema. The largest shopping centers are Akropolis and Panorama.

Gariunai is the Baltic's largest open air market, located on the western edge of Vilnius. Thousands of merchants can be found there on a good weekend, from not only Lithuania, but also from as far away as Ukraine. Clothes, shoes, music and software can be bought there. Counterfeit goods are ubiquitous. A low price is guaranteed, quality is not.

Kaunas is also a city of shopping centers, and Laisvės avenue in the center of the city is a pedestrian thoroughfare. The main shopping centers in Kaunas are: Akropolis, Mega, Molas, Savas, HyperMaxima, and Urmas shopping area. There is even that symbol of "mall culture", which is new to Lithuania, Akropolis.

Klaipeda is a major shopping center for people from Latvia and Kaliningrad. The main shopping centers are: Akropolis, Arena, Studlendas and BIG. Many people coming to the city on cruise ships shop in Klaipeda, due to the good value and price combination.

Eat [ edit ]

Lithuanian dinners usually include meat, potato, vegetables and sometimes a curd sauce of some sort. Case in point: the cepelinai , or zeppelins, which are meat filled potato-starch based zeppelin-shaped masses traditionally slathered in a sauce of sour cream, butter, and pork cracklings. Pork is traditionally eaten, beef much less so. Vegans will have a hard time eating out, although some large restaurant chains will have vegetarian dishes on the menu.

Some fast food in Lithuania, such as Kibinai (from the Karaim people) small turnovers usually filled with spiced lamb, and Čeburekai (a Crimean Tatar snack), large folds of dough with a scant filling of meat, cheese, or even apples, can be found around the city.

Many restaurants have menus in English (usually in the Lithuanian menu) and to a lesser extent, Russian. Though use caution as sometimes menus in other languages may have inflated prices, although this is a rarity, and won't be found in Vilnius , or the better known chains such as Čili Pica.

While in Lithuania, one should try these national dishes: appetisers - Piršteliai prie alaus - thin, rolled-up puff pastries served with beer; main courses: Cepelinai (or didžkukuliai ) su spirgučiais - potato balls with meat (about €3.20); Vėdarai - a sausage, made of a potato stuffed intestine of a pig (about €3); Skilandis - pig stomach stuffed with meat, garlic and cold-smoked; Plokštainis - meal of potatoes (€2.30–4); Bulviniai blynai (grated potato pancakes) with different sauces; Virtinukai - curd patties; Kastinys - soft sour cream butter; Šaltnosiukai - dumplings filled with lingonberries; Fish - pike or perch, is often baked whole or stuffed, or made into gefilte fish (various prices); Silkė - marinated, baked, fried or served in aspic herring; soups - Šaltibarščiai (a summer soup based on beets and soured milk), Juka (blood soup) or Cabbage soup flavored with carrots, ham, onions. Ruginė duona (dark rye bread) is very advisable to try with soups. Lithuanian cuisine is also famous for wide use of wild berries, mushrooms, and cheese. Honey and poppy seeds are commonly used as filling in pastries. For desserts, try Žagarėliai - twisted, thin deep-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar or Spurgos - a Lithuanian variant of doughnuts, often filled with preserves.

Drink [ edit ]

Lithuania is a beer -drinking country, with the most famous brands being Svyturys, Kalnapilis, Utenos, Volfas Engelman and Gubernija. A visit to a kiosk will show that there may be more than 50 different brands of beer in this small country. Alcohol percentages are displayed on the label, and usually range from 4–9.5%. Compared to other European countries, beer is usually affordable, in shops €0.50–1 per half litre, in bars €0.75–2 per half litre. The beer tastes excellent, putting global brands to shame and it can be said that Lithuanian lager is of at least equal quality to Czech, Slovak, German and Polish lager. A request for a Lithuanian beer always generates goodwill, even in a Chinese or other foreign-themed restaurant.

When you visit a bar or restaurant without intending to eat, try one of the bar snacks, which are very popular among Lithuanians. The most popular of these snacks consists of a bowl of pieces of garlic bread covered in cheese.

In addition to beer, rather cheap but high quality vodka (or "degtinė" in Lithuanian) is consumed, but not to the extent usually associated with this part of the world. Also, every region has its own home-made speciality of which "Samane" is most famous or notorious and is best avoided. The larger supermarkets have an incredible variety of vodka from all the main vodka-producing countries.

Lithuanian mead , or "midus" is a beverage produced exclusively under government control. It is commonly made from various types of Lithuanian flora, from leaves and berries to some tree bark. Alcohol content range from 10–75% (considered medicinal).

For tourists, quality sparkling wines , such as Alita or Mindaugas, and local liqueurs are popular choices to bring back home.

Alcohol cannot be sold in shops between 20:00 (15:00 on Sundays) and 10:00, but can be purchased in bars, cafes and restaurants.

In shops and cafés different tea and coffee qualities are widely available. The selection in coffee ranges from northern European brands to French ones. In coffee houses, you should expect to pay up to €1.50 for your coffee. Some cafés offer also a variety of special coffees with more or less special prices. Many cafes (kavinės) still make "lazy" coffee, which is simply coffee grounds and boiling water, unfiltered, with grounds at the bottom of the cup, often surprising the drinker - ask before you buy. Tea is usually sold at 50% of the price of coffee. Some of the wonderful drinks such as the Marganito are great for fun filled party drinks and rated one of the top kinds of wine in the country, perfect for weddings.

Unlike restaurants, or pubs aimed at tourists, bars (Baras) may be frequented by heavy drinkers and can therefore be somewhat rowdy. Nevertheless, a visit may still be very rewarding, especially if you accept an invitation to participate in karaoke.

Smoking is banned in cafés, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, discothèques and other public establishments. However, many nightclubs have internal smoking rooms, which have a degree of ventilation.

Sleep [ edit ]

The price of accommodation depends very much on the place. For instance, in Joniškis (Northern Lithuania), you can get a good hotel room for €25 whereas an equivalent room might be as much as €100 in Vilnius. Some hotels do not have home pages. Nevertheless, the Internet helps considerably in planning.

Throughout the country, homestays, sleeping "with the grandmother", are typical. On main street of a town there are many elderly townsfolk offering spare beds in their extra rooms. These experiences are worth seeking out.

If you want to rent the apartment, the prices will be usually from €200 a month. In the biggest towns there are companies which rent apartments "to the long-time tourist or working here". In these you complete on good conditions the apartment furnished and cleaned by the cleaner. From €300.

If you are looking for an apartment for a shorter period (from a few days onwards), do a Web search for "trumpalaikė butų nuoma". This will give you some portals or sites of companies, though not all of them are available in English – some are, however, available in other languages such as German, Polish or Russian.

You will find the hotels of every town on their own interleaves. However, remember that this is the service maintained by the volunteers and you should not wait for current prices let alone that there would be all the possibilities listed.

An interesting accommodation alternative is a countryside accommodation or an own cottage. Countryside.lt offers the shining catalog for accommodation alternatives and you find nearly all the countryside targets and a reservation system from there.

Most large cities such as Vilnius or Kaunas have an abundance of hotel options. When traveling to a popular vacation spot in the summer (like Palanga or Druskininkai ) make sure to book a room in advance because demand may outnumber supply. Additionally, some of the cafes on the main highways between cities also have rooms to rent.

Learn [ edit ]

Lithuania has one of the best educational systems in the world. Many universities participate in student exchange programs. Most popular international university in Lithuania is LCC International University in Klaipeda . The best universities of Lithuania are Vilnius University (Vilniaus Universitetas), Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Vilniaus Gedimino Technikos Universitetas) and Kaunas University of Technology (Kauno Technologijos Universitetas).

In Kaunas there is the biggest technical university, KTU, in the country and a medical university LSMU (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences), sports academy LKKA, music and theatre academy LMTA, agriculture university ASU and multidisciplinary University of Vytautas Magnus, VDU.

Klaipeda and Siauliai also has its own universities. In the country several lower educational institutions which go with the name kolegija (eng. college) also are found.

The course supply hangs very much from the university and there also are somewhere programmes for English. However, pay attention to the fact that Lithuania's official language is Lithuanian and in the law it has been prescribed that the Lithuanian student has a right to study in Lithuanian in Lithuania. Especially all the courses of the candidate level will be thus in Lithuanian and in the Master of Arts programmes in English the bulk of the courses is in English. Depending on the rules of the university the courses must have a certain number of foreign students attending before the lectures need to be in English (this concerns courses announced to be held in English) and if this limit is not exceeded, the lecturer may lecture, if desired, in Lithuanian.

The grading system in Lithuania is generally 1–10 in which 5-10 correspond to the accepted performances. The local students usually have to keep their average very high and still a higher one in order to get the scholarship in order to guarantee free studies. There is no financial aid for studies.

Work [ edit ]

There are now many work options in Lithuania. One seldom manages working life without control of the language, therefore basic working knowledge of Lithuanian is highly recommended. You may get by with Russian or, to an increasing extent, English, although your mileage may vary.

Any EU national can work and live freely in Lithuania. However, EU nationals spending more than 90 days over an 180-day period in Lithuania need to obtain a residence title ( teisės Lietuvos Respublikoje gyventi pažymėjimas or just TLRGP ). This document is issued to any EU national who can provide proof of a valid health insurance (in the form of a European Health Insurance card) and a source of sufficient income (the amount is determined based upon individual circumstances). It can be applied for at Migracijos departamentas (Department of Migration). Upon obtaining the residence title, registering your residence with the municipality of residence is mandatory within a month. This requires proof, such as a rental contract, the landlord's signature on the declaration form or an extract from the land register proving your ownership. Not all immigration officials are familiar with the procedures for EU nationals (which are much less stringent than those for non-EU nationals), therefore ask if you have doubts.

Non-EU nationals need a residence permit and a registered address for working.

The Migration Department provides its services in Lithuanian, English and Russian. Visits require registration through the web site, which is also where you can indicate what language you would like to communicate in.

As of 2021, workers in Lithuania pay 20% income tax (up to €400/month are exempt from taxes for workers earning less than approx. €2700/month) and 19.5% for health and unemployment insurance. Web sites such as Atlyginimo skaičiuoklė provide an exact breakdown.

Workers are required by law to undergo periodic health inspections if they are under 18, work shifts or during night hours, or if their workplace exposes them to certain risk factors. The latter is the case even for office jobs (risks being eye strain and carpal tunnel syndrome).

Stay safe [ edit ]

In general, Lithuania is a safe country. But you should take basic safety measures:

• Take care when visiting potentially dangerous neighbourhoods at night. After dark it is safer to walk along main roads, than to take a short cut through a park or apartment complex, as these areas often have very poor lighting. Take a taxi if you are afraid of possible encounters. A thing to watch out for is bicycle theft, and it is advisable not to leave valuable things in your car.
• As in other Eastern European countries, public displays of affection between same-gender partners such as holding hands or kissing may result in a confrontation from an onlooker. Suspicion of homosexuality may also cause problems.
• Members of ethnic minorities, (particularly those of African descent), may experience some form of racism . This is not tolerated by the authorities and racist attacks are rare. However non-whites might be stared at by locals, especially in rural areas. More often than not this can be out of pure curiosity rather than malice. The issue of race relations, the history of slavery and civil rights are relatively unknown. That said, the presence of several Afro-American basketball players in the Lithuanian league does help and means that racism is perhaps not as big a problem as other eastern European countries.
• Driving in Lithuania is considered dangerous according to European standards. Lithuania's rapidly expanding economy has led to an increase in traffic density, thus accident rates are high. As a pedestrian, take great care when crossing the roads, as pedestrian crossings are widely ignored. When driving be careful of aggressive, quickly going and irresponsible drivers. It's better to pass them even if they are flouting rules. Keep in mind that traffic police could be corrupt. Mind the forest roads, collisions with wildlife animals can easily occur.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

If bitten by a dog, wild animal or a snake , seek medical attention immediately. Snakes are not venomous in Lithuania, except for the European Viper ( angis ) whose bite only rarely is lethal though quite painful. A dog ( šuo ) or cat ( katė ) bite can carry the risk of rabies. Mosquitoes ( uodai ) carry no disease and are only an annoyance in the summer months. A forest tick ( erkė ) bite carries the risk of Lyme disease or encephalitis.

Tap water is suitable for drinking in many parts of Lithuania. In other areas, local people prefer to purchase bottled water or to run tap water through water filters. If you need to buy bottled water, a 5-litre bottle is not much more expensive than a one-litre bottle. Where in doubt about the tap water, seek local advice.

Mineral water is also offered in restaurants, cafés and shops, although it's a bit more expensive than tap water. Some popular brands are Birutė and Vytautas. But be warned - those are carbonated, and foreigners describe "Vytautas" as "sea water" due to its salty taste.

Respect [ edit ]

Lithuanians are a Baltic nation and are their own people; confusing them as Russians or anything else may cause offense.

Lithuanian is a notoriously difficult language to master, but learning how to greet locals in their own language can go a long way. They will appreciate your efforts in Lithuanian.

Lithuania was a constituent republic of the Soviet Union from the end of World War II until 1990. However, due to several historical events, including 19th century occupations by Tsarist Russia, territorial disputes with Poland in the early 20th century, and Soviet rule in the 20th century; discussions of disputes with neighboring countries can be sensitive. When referencing Lithuania in the context of the former USSR, it's essential to exercise caution as praising Soviet practices is unlikely to be appreciated by Lithuanians.

World War II and the Holocaust are emotional and sensitive topics for many Lithuanians.

Lithuanians may appear at times nationalist. Ethnic identities and local traditions might be taken very seriously. The history of the country is rife with invasions and confrontations. It is best to avoid superficial comments on sensitive topics such as World War II, Nazi occupation, and Soviet rule.

Lithuanians may appear sad, depressive ( suicide rates in Lithuania are among the highest in the world), a little bit rude and suspicious. Smile at a Lithuanian in the street and most likely they will not respond in kindness. Smiling in Lithuania is traditionally reserved for friends; smile at a stranger and they will either think you're making fun of them and there's something wrong with their clothes or hairdo. Furthermore, an automatic Western smile is often regarded as insincere.

Women in the entire former USSR area are traditionally treated with respect. Female travellers should not act indignant when local male friends pay their bills at restaurants, open every door in front of them, offer their hand to help them climb down that little step or help them carry anything heavier than a handbag - this is not sexual harassment or being condescending.

As is the case throughout the Baltic countries , there is still some resentment and distrust towards Russia and Lithuanians are often stereotyped as "anti-Russian". Keep in mind that most Lithuanians have absolutely nothing against Russian people; rather, many of them only remain distrustful of the Russian government.

Anti-China sentiment is also high in Lithuania, and most Lithuanians are staunch supporters of the Taiwan independence movement. Taiwan's struggle for independence from China is seen by most Lithuanians as reminiscent of their own long and hard struggle for independence from the Soviet Union.

Connect [ edit ]

Land line phones [ edit ].

There is a monopoly operator for land line phones: TEO (it now belongs to "TeliaSonera AB"), a subsidiary of Sweden (Telia) and Finland (Sonera). Land line phones are easy to find throughout the country. Phones are used with cards, which you can find in kiosks, "TEO" or newspaper stands.

Mobile phones [ edit ]

There are three major mobile phone operators in Lithuania: Telia, BITE and TELE 2. About 97% of the country's surface is covered by the standard European GSM 900/1800 MHz network, the remaining 3% are non-walkable forests.

The pre-paid SIM cards you can buy in any kiosk and they are: Pildyk (Tele2), Labas (Bite) and Ežys (Telia). Pildyk has the cheapest internet, but the smallest coverage area (which should suffice unless you want to use internet in deep forests). For onward travel, only Ežys includes EU roaming allowances in its plans, while the others charge extra for this.

Getting a monthly-rate plan (if you intend to stay longer) can be difficult. As of 2021, Tele2 will not sell monthly-rate plans to foreigners (even EU citizens) unless they have a permanent residence permit. Bitė is more flexible in that respect.

If you are planning to live in Lithuania, get a plan which includes a mobile signature (mobilusis parašas). This provides you with a way to log in to virtually every government services and plenty of non-government ones (such as banking or utilities suppliers) using your phone. Being implemented as a SIM toolkit app, it works with pretty much any phone (not just smartphones) and doesn’t require you to download an app.

International calls [ edit ]

To call abroad from Lithuania:

• From a land line phone: 00 Your Country Code The Number Abroad
• From a mobile phone: + Your Country Code The Number Abroad

To call to Lithuania from abroad, dial the Lithuania country code, +370, then the number, as if calling from a domestic mobile phone. It is also often that the number is written with 8 in the beginning (i. e. 86XXXXXXX), in this case simply replace 8 with +370 to make a call.

International and roaming calls are expensive. To reduce your bill you can:

• Buy "phone cards" for international calls
• Talk over the Internet

Internet [ edit ]

If you're bringing a laptop, Wireless LAN Hot-Spots are available in distinct places (mostly "Zebra" from - TEO), sometimes free, otherwise not very cheap. Best chances of finding one are at airports, railway stations, in cafés, shopping malls, universities, various places. You can ask in your hotel, but be prepared to pay. For those who need to connect at an Internet cafes, major cities do have internet cafes. You can get free wireless Internet in Kaunas main pedestrian street, Laisvės Alėja. Download speed reaches 26.2 Mbit/s, while upload speed is 16.8 Mbit/s. The internet service that provide such speeds are not free.

With your mobile phone you can use: CSD, HSCSD, GPRS or EDGE, but the cost may be unattractive. There's 4G coverage almost everywhere in the country, except for a few spots in the countryside. If your phone is not SIM-locked, you may consider purchasing a pre-paid SIM card designed for data access.

If you want to communicate with your friends or locals using internet, you'll need Facebook Messenger. Whatsapp is not very popular here. Older generation people usually have Viber too. The most popular social websites are Facebook and Instagram. Though Facebook is being used by older people, while younger people choose Instagram.

Post office [ edit ]

If you see the sign "Lietuvos paštas" on a storefront, this doesn't mean it is a pasta shop! It is actually the post office where you can mail letters and packages.

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8 best places to visit in lithuania {+ full itinerary}.

When we visited Vilnius (the capital of Lithuania) in early 2019, I really wasn’t too sure what to expect.

As a post-Soviet satellite state, Lithuania is one of the many countries in Eastern Europe that seems to get very little publicity in the UK.

But after spending a few days in Vilnius and discovering that there were so many awesome things to do there, we simply HAD to discover more of the country!

So we rented a car for 2 days and set about on our Lithuania itinerary that took us to many of the best cities and towns.

What we discovered was one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

There are truly breathtaking views all across the country, and so much to see despite it being relatively small.

Well, to help you plan your own Lithuania itinerary, here are what I believe to be the 8 best places to visit in Lithuania this year.

Travellerspoint

First up, let’s start with the capital city!

In my opinion, Vilnius is a wonderful blend of old and new.

Here, you will find old castles, cobbled streets and gorgeous churches dating back hundreds of years.

But amidst it all is a hustling, bustling generation of young professionals, working for exciting new companies.

Of an evening time, when the weather is nice, you will find the streets lined with people sat outside of trendy bars and cafes.

They also have a few novels, modern transport initiatives that I haven’t discovered anywhere else in Europe.

Most notably, Citybee, which is an app you downloaded on your phone, and from here you can quickly and easily rent electric vehicles and scooters for however long you like.

Simply login and upload a few details, and then rock up and scan whichever vehicle it is you wish to take.

You can find out more and learn how it works on the Citybee website .

The best things to do in Vilnius

There are literally tonnes of awesome things to do in Vilnius , but here are our 5 favourite things to do there.

• Climb up Gediminas Castle Tower
• Go bar hopping in the evening
• Visit the Cathedral
• Go on a guided walking tour
• Hire the Citybee scooters for a few hours!

Where to stay in Vilnius

There’s great accommodation to suit all budgets in Vilnius.

• Tinggly Blogger House - This is where we stayed as a part of our sponsored stay with Tinggly . However, you can also hire it out on Booking.com. It’s a really place to stay, warm cosy and very modern. They have a full kitchen you can use, a giant projector screen and even a Segway! It’s located about a 10 minute drive from the city centre.
• Radisson Blu - We love the Radisson Blu Hotels and the one in Vilnius is a large, modern hotel that is very hard to miss. It is ideally located in the city centre, just a short walk or drive from all of the main sites. If you are happy to spend a little more, then this is a great place to choose.

2. Šiauliai

In recent years, Siauliai has become an increasingly popular place to visit, and for one major reason …

The Hill Of Crosses.

This is literally what it says on the tin. A large hill that you can walk over, covered in thousands upon thousands of crosses.

Some big, some small, some wooden, some metal, it really is a unique and wonderful spot to discover.

It has become a very popular pilgrimage spot, and Pope John Paul II even visited back in 1993.

You don’t need to spend too long here, but you certainly can’t miss it if you are road tripping across Lithuania.

The best things to do in Šiauliai

• Visit the Hill Of Crosses
• Check out the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
• Take a walk around Rėkyva Lake

3. Klaipėda

On the western coast of Lithuania, you will discover the large port city of Klaipeda.

As well as being a significant trading hub for the country, it has grown to become a popular place for tourists and local Lithuanians.

Here, you will find a long sandy beach stretching as far as you can see.

As you walk down it you come across old battery forts from WW2.

If the weather’s nice, and you’re feeling particularly daring, then you can even go for a swim!

Back in town, you will find a number of nice spots to visit.

This includes …

The best things to do in Klaipėda

• Sculpture Park
• The ruins of Memel Castle

Nida is possibly my favourite place to visit in Lithuania.

Located on a spit of land just off the coast of Klaipeda, Nida is nestled away at the far end, offering stunning ocean views from both sides.

It is surprisingly built up and is a popular place for holiday goers and, I imagine, retirees.

You’ll find lots of nice beachside restaurants and even a small farmers market at the end of town.

To get to Nida, you will need to catch a ferry across from Klaipeda to Smiltyne.

These run very regularly and aren’t very expensive as they only take about 15 minutes each way.

But as a word of warning, the queues back over from Smiltyne to Klaipeda can get very long and congested.

As such, leave plenty of time if you have a deadline for getting back across to the mainland.

Kaunas once served as the nation’s capital in 1938 and has ever since been an important and well developed city.

We didn’t have the chance to discover too much of Kaunas, but did manage to stop off and see one of their most famous and humbling sites, the Ninth Fort.

This is a large memorial and sculpture built in dedication to the roughly 50,000 jews and other Lithuanians who were killed in WW2.

The burial site is located right beside the statue, a chilling reminder of Lithuania went through under Nazi rule.

The best things to do in Kaunas

• Visit the Holocaust memorial at Ninth Fort.
• Discover Kaunas Castle
• Marvel at Vytautas the Great Church and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
• Take a stroll through the Old Town

Trakai ended up being one of my favourite places in Lithuania, located just a short 1 hour drive away from Vilnius.

Here, you will find perhaps the best castle anywhere in Lithuania.

The castle dates all the way back to the 14th century, and is still in incredibly good condition.

But what makes it so captivating is that it’s located on a small island in the middle of a giant lake.

You can spend hours walking around the town, the lake and even taking boat rides out and around the lake itself.

We didn’t have time for this, as the day was already drawing to an end when we reached Trakai, but it’s definitely something to do if you have more time!

It only cost a few Euros per person and they take you to many of the nicest spots.

Alternatively, you can rent a kayak and take yourself out and discover the castle from even more angles.

Seriously, don't you think this castle should have made an appearance in Game of Thrones?

The best things to do in Trakai

• Discover the beauty of Trakai Island Castle
• Go for a boat ride out on the lake
• Go for a sunset meal by the lake

7. Panemunės pilis

If you are interested in discovering even more spectacular castles, then one of the best places to visit in Lithuania is Panemunes Pilis.

It was built in the early 1600s and is located just up from the banks of the Neman River.

It has been recently renovated and restored, and guests even have the choice to stay there for a night .

It is a few Euros to go into the castle, and you can climb to the top of one of the spires. On a clear day, you are blessed with astounding views for miles in all directions.

Then, just outside the castle you will find 2 small lakes and some peaceful wooded gardens to walk through.

There’s also the opportunity to ride a pony and to try out some archery if you wish.

When you leave, head over the main road and stop off at the small snack wagon located right by the river.

They serve a few basic options, but it’s such a nice spot to take a minute to relax and appreciate the scenery.

8. Raudone Castle

As you head back towards Kaunas or Vilnius, then you can simply follow the road that runs alongside the gorgeous Neman River.

It is by far one of the most spectacular things to see in Lithuania, and the drive alongside it is wonderful and you are blessed with some of Lithuania’s best views for hundreds of miles.

Also, as this would have once served as a key means of transporting goods throughout Lithuania, there are a number of towns and castles located not far from it’s banks.

With Raudone Castle being the next one, located just 10 minutes from Panemunes Pilis.

The castle itself isn’t quite as spectacular, but the grounds around it are.

You can take some time to walk around the grounds and then enter the castle and walk to the top of one of its towers.

Other Great places to visit in Lithuania

As we only had 2 days to drive across Lithuania. We had to stick to the most popular Lithuania attractions.

However, if you have more time, then there is plenty more to see, despite Lithuania being such a small country.

Other spots to visit, of which we didn’t get chance to visit, but really wanted to include:

• Aukštumala Educational Trail
• Kirkilai Observation Tower
• Marvele Cascade
• Lake Apvalaus

Planning the perfect Lithuania itinerary

As mentioned throughout, we had 2 days to drive across Lithuania, which is plenty of time if you are happy to spend 4 or 5 hours driving each day.

In fact, here is the exact 2 day Lithuania route that we followed:

• Panemunes Pilis
• Raudone Castle

This is plenty to see and do in just 2 days, and I wouldn’t recommend trying to cram in any more.

But what I would recommend is allowing more time to spend traveling across Lithuania.

I imagine that 4 to 5 days would be plenty of time to see all of the places to visit discussed above and to do so at a slow and leisurely pace.

Getting around Lithuania

Now that you know which places you want to see in Lithuania, it’s time to decide how you plan to get around!

Based on our experience, I would 100% recommend having your own form of transport, be it a car or a campervan.

It gives you complete freedom over the route you take and which places you choose to stop off at across Lithuania.

So how do you go about hiring a car in Lithuania?

Option 1: Rentalcars.com / Hertz

We did a lot of research before hiring our car and ended up booking through Rentalcars.com with Hertz.

Rentalcars is a good place to start your search as they are a price comparison site for all of the major car hire firms in Lithuania.

By booking through them, you also tend to get a few extra perks, such as a free secondary driver.

In total, we paid around 100 Euros for the two day booking. We picked it up Saturday morning and took it back Sunday night.

This included 2 drivers, and full insurance and cover for any damages we might incur.

Click here to search for car rental in Lithuania

Option 2: Citybee

Remember the company Citybee that I mentioned when discussing Vilnius?

Well, they allow people to hire out both cars and mopeds.

As such, you are perfectly able to hire a car directly through their app and then drive it to other parts of Vilnius.

We saw a number of Citybee cars when driving across Lithuania, so it’s certainly something that a number of people do.

I can’t comment on how easy it is, but I do know that you can find out everything you need to know directly on their app .

As a developed European nation, Lithuania has decent rail networks operating all across the country.

Aside from the 2 castles, you can use trains to visit all of Lithuania’s best cities and towns discussed above.

You can find out more about train travel in Lithuania here , here and here .

Similarly, you are more than able to get buses all across Lithuania.

This doesn’t give you quite as much freedom as having your own form of transport, but is certainly much cheaper.

If you want to look at bus routes and bus tickets then here are a few good sites to use:

• Check My Bus
• Autobusubilietai.lt

If you want to get across to Nida from Klaipeda, then you will need to get the ferry to Smiltyne.

When you arrive in Klaipeda, simply follow the signs to the ferry terminal, and you then pull up and purchase a ticket from the barrier attendant before you get into the docks.

The ticket costs around 20 Euros and is for a return fare.

The trains run very regularly, and you can find out their full schedule here .

Common questions when planning where to visit in Lithuania

To help you with planning your perfect Lithuania itinerary, I’ve gone ahead and answered the most common questions people have when visiting.

All of which I had myself!

How much should I budget for visiting Lithuania?

Lithuania is actually quite a cheap country (at least compared to other European countries).

As a rough idea …

• A cheap hotel room will set you back roughly 30 Euros per night
• A meal in a mid-range restaurant is about 5 or 6 Euros per person if you eat local Lithuanian cuisine (which you should!)
• Petrol is currently 1.15 Euros a litre

We budgeted 40 Euros a day per person, which allowed us to see everything we wanted and to eat out once or twice a day.

Do they speak English in Lithuania?

The national language is Lithuanian, but In most cases, yes they speak English.

However, if you speak to many older people, then you will find that they either don’t know English or refuse to speak it.

Instead, they will speak Lithuanian or Russian.

If you are speaking to younger people, then you will typically find that they speak fluent English, especially if they are working in tourist-oriented jobs.

Are Lithuanians friendly?

I will let you make up your own mind on this!

Based on our experience, I think Lithuanians are just naturally much more reserved than people from the UK and other parts of Europe.

When you speak to them, they rarely smile and many will seem quite short and possibly rude.

However, this is just a part of their culture and likely a throwback to the long time the country spent under Soviet rule.

You tend to find that the younger generations are much more open and friendly than older people who grew up and lived through much tougher times.

When is the best time to visit Lithuania?

If you are looking for warmer weather, then you should visit in the Summer months from June till August.

With that being said, we visited in late April until early May, and found the weather to already be very hot, with temperatures in the day time exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

Apparently, the autumn months of September and October can be very lovely in Lithuania, but it can start to get pretty cold.

If you are there in the heart of winter, then expect it to get very, VERY, cold!

From what we discovered, Lithuania is prone to extreme heat in the summer and extreme cold in the winter months.

What’s the best way to get to Lithuania?

If you are coming from Europe, then flights to Lithuania are pretty darn cheap.

Our tickets were £56.50 each, for return flights from London with Ryanair.

If you are flying within Europe, then you tend to find that Ryanair offer the cheapest flights.

Either way, the best way to find flights to Lithuania is by using Skyscanner .

You can also drive to Lithuania or get a coach.

Final thoughts

Hopefully you can tell that I am a really big fan of Lithuania!

We really had no idea of what to expect when we arrived, but left having fully enjoyed and appreciated our time spent exploring there.

So thank you once again to the Tinggly team for helping to make our trip so memorable.

Hopefully, this rundown of the best places to visit in Lithuania has helped you in planning your own Lithuania itinerary.

As always, if you have any further questions, then just drop me a comment below and I will be happy to help wherever I can!

Planning to visit other countries in the Baltics? Check out these posts for inspiration:

• Our Epic 2 Week Baltic Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Things To Do In Latvia
• The Best Things To Do In Estonia
• How To Plan A Trip

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Let us know what you think.

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Lithuania travel guide - including map of Lithuania, attractions, culture, key facts, health and safety, money and weather in Lithuania

Lithuania is full of history, from the   iconic Hill of Crosses   (a poignant memorial to the Lithuanians who died fighting against Tsarist, Nazi and Soviet rule) to   Vilnius’s Unesco-listed Baroque Old Town .

In the capital’s   cobbled streets , you’ll also find a wealth of quirky shops, eccentric   cafés and bohemian art galleries . And since Lithuania is thankfully not part of the Eurozone, you can get this   culture-fix   on the cheap.

Lithuania’s   countryside   also makes for affordable and unique breaks.

Hikers and cyclists   can enjoy the well-marked trails of the   Curonian Spit National Park   - an extraordinary strip of   sand dunes   and   pines   that separates the   wildlife-rich Curonian lagoon   from the Baltic Sea.

There’s lots of   boating fun   to be had in   Trakai National Park   and in the lesser-visited   Aukstaitija National Park , it’s possible to walk for hours without meeting anyone.

Wanderlust recommends

• Discover   Vilnius’ hidden gems   with our guide to the Lithuanian capital
• Spot   elk, deer, cormorants and storks   around the unique   Curonian Spit
• Explore the   islets, lakes, wooden cottages   in   Trakai National Park , also home to Lithuania’s most spectacular   castle .
• Unwind in the   spa town of Druskininkai , a former playground of Soviet bigwigs.
• Reflect on Lithuania’s struggle for independence at the   Hill of Crosses, Siauliai .
• In winter, fill your hip flask with vodka and join the locals   ice fishing   on Lake   Galve   – just 18km from Vilnius.

Wanderlust tips

A warning   worth bearing mind when you’ve had too much midus and make your way to the nearest WC: the letter   M   on the door does not stand for Men. It signifies   moteru (women).

Sometimes a simple upward-pointing triangle is used to signpost female toilets. The letter   V (for vyru)   or a downward-pointing triangle marks   male   toilets.

Further Reading

Travel in lithuania: vital statistics.

• Capital of Lithuania:   Vilnius
• Population of Lithuania:   3.5 million
• Languages in Lithuania:   Lithuanian  
• Time in Lithuania:   GMT +1
• International dialling code in Lithuania:   +370
• Voltage in Lithuania:   220 AC 50 Hz
• Visas for Lithuania:   Lithuania visas
• Money in Lithuania:  Euro.  Credit cards and travellers’ cheques are accepted in large towns. 
• Lithuania travel advice:   Foreign and Commonwealth Office
• Lithuania tourist board:   Lithuanian Travel

When to go to Lithuania

Climate and crowds in Lithuania:   Much of the country is under permanent snow cover from November to March and the average temperature is below freezing.

Summer (from May to August) brings the warmest weather. It’s worth visiting at the beginning of summer since most Lithuanians take their main annual vacation at the height of summer, causing severe congestion and August sees the most rain.

Late April when the   flowers are in bloom   and September and October when the parks are a sea of red are pleasant times to visit.

No matter what time of year, the weather can be unreliable, so take waterproofs.

Festivals in Lithuania:   Kaunas   holds a month-long Jazz festival in April, while Vilnius stages a classical   music festival   throughout June. In May, the capital holds the colourful Vilnius carnival.

International airports

Vilnius (VNO) , 6km from the city

Getting around in Lithuania

Trains   in Lithuania are cheap but slow and infrequent. Train services between Vilnius and Lithuania’s other major cities tend to be slightly cheaper than the express bus services but take longer. For timetables, see   Litrail .

Buses   are the mainstay of Lithuania’s public transport system. The cross-country express routes linking Vilnius and Kaunas with Klaipéda and Palanga are frequent, fast and served by comfortable, modern coaches.

Lithunian towns are well covered by   innercity bus networks .

Most have bike lines so   cycling   can be a good way of getting round. Outside of the main cities, cars are invaluable for reaching places painfully slow to get to or inaccessible by public transport.

If you’re hiring a car local operators tend to give a better deal than international agencies.

Lithuania accommodation

Although smaller   boutique hotels and B&Bs   are springing up in Lithuania’s cities, be prepared to end up in the odd   1970s monstrosity   on your travels.

Room rates in the   coastal resorts   can rise dramatically in peak season.

In Vilnius, where hotels cater largely for a business clientele, there are good weekend deals to be had.

Rural farmhouse   stays can be a good value option and a chance to sample real Lithuanian home-cooking.

You can get information on these from local tourist offices and many are listed in the national tourist board’s publication,   Countryside Holidays .

Lithuania food & drink

Lithuania’s national dish is   Cepelinai   (Zeppelin), so called because of its shape. This meat-filled   potato dumpling   is traditionally slathered in sour cream and pork cracklings.

Pork and potatoes feature heavily in most Lithuanian dishes.

Vegetarians   will have a hard time of things if they don’t eat fish. The Baltic, the Curonian lagoon and Lithuania’s rivers provide an abundant supply of cod, plaice, salmon, trout, perch and eel, which is often served smoked.

Lithuania’s most distinctive drink is   gira , a refreshing   rye-brew   with little or no alcohol content. Most bars have a daunting array of   locally produced beers   and spirits , including several types of vodka and   midus   – a fiendishly-strong honey mead.  

Health & safety in Lithuania

If you are an EU citizen, a   European Health Insurance Card   covers you for emergency medical treatment.

No vaccinations   are required, though it’s worth checking your tetanus jab is up to date. In some parts of Lithuania there is a small risk of contracting tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease – consider insect repellent.

Tap water is   safe to drink , although in certain areas the locals prefer to   drink bottled water.

Lithuania is   generally a safe   country for tourists. However, there have been occasional reports of tourists being drugged in bars and robbed, so don’t accept drinks or food from strangers.

Don’t flaunt   valuables or lots of money in public as pickpockets do operate in Lithuania’s cities.

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Lithuania Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, lithuania - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.  

Exercise normal precautions in Lithuania.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lithuania.

If you decide to travel to Lithuania:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Lithuania.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, lithuania map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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Lithuania Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Lithuania. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Carnival and Mardi Gras June 30, 2021 This notice has been removed. Destination List: Lithuania, Malta, North Macedonia, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, United States

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Lithuania.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Lithuania.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Lithuania is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Lithuania, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Lithuania. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Lithuania include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Lithuania’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Lithuania may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Lithuania, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Lithuania for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Lithuania travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: May 6, 2024 10:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, lithuania - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Lithuania

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The crime rate is low but violent crime, including mugging, does occur.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occasionally occurs, particularly on public transport and in bars and night clubs.

Car theft and theft from cars also does occur.

Single individuals that might look like they are in possession of money or valuable belongings, may be targeted in less populated areas after dark.  Individuals have also been harassed for reasons of race or foreign-looking appearance.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• At night, avoid walking alone in parks, poorly lit areas, parking lots and side streets and alleys.
• Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Credit card and ATM fraud is a concern, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Strangers may invite you to visit local bars.This is often a ploy to overcharge customers for drinks. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

This is of particular concern at bus and railway stations, but you should remain cautious in night clubs, too

Road safety

Roads are generally in good condition but lanes are not always clearly marked.

Travelling at night in rural areas can be hazardous due to slow-moving horse-drawn carts, bicycles and vehicles travelling without taillights or reflectors on poorly lit streets and highways.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during winter. Drivers can be aggressive.

Public transportation

Rail service is efficient and reliable. Most trains are new and comfortable. Make sure that your personal belongings are secure at all times, especially when travelling on overnight international trains.

Bus service throughout the country is safe and reliable. Frequent bus and air services link Lithuania to neighbouring countries.

Taxis are inexpensive. Use only officially marked taxis from taxi stands or reputable hotels.

To avoid being overcharged, negotiate the price in advance and ensure that the taxi driver is using the meter. Always ask for a receipt.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

belarus_border_closures

Belarus border closures

Starting in February 2023, Lithuanian authorities shut down certain border crossings with Belarus due to security concerns.

If you plan to cross the Lithuania-Belarus border, the following crossings remain open:

• Medininkai/Kamienny
• Šalčininkai/Beniakoni

Travelling by land into Belarus is increasingly difficult. More closures or changes to restrictions could happen with little or no warning.

If you are near the border or travelling through a border crossing:

• be aware of your surroundings
• avoid large crowds and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Lithuanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Lithuania is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days* Student visa: required Work permit: required

* The 90-day period begins upon initial entry into any country of the Schengen area. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country within any 180-day period.

Vehicles with Russian license plates

Since September 2023, Lithuania has enforced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia with nine or fewer seats. This restriction is currently in place at the border and reflects existing European Union sanctions against the Russian Federation.

Vehicles registered in Russia carrying Russian license plates will be refused entry into Lithuania. An exception applies to vehicles transiting to or from the Russian territory of Kaliningrad driven by the vehicle owner. Transit through Lithuania must be done within 24 hours.

Sanction requirements for vehicles registered in Russia – Customs of the Republic of Lithuania

Curonian Spit

The Curonian Spit—an elongated sand dune that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea—is divided between Lithuania and the Russian Federation, with a border crossing at Nida.

Canadians wishing to visit the Curonian Spit region in Russia must possess a Russian visa.

Health Insurance

When entering Lithuania, non-EU citizens must be able to show sufficient proof of medical insurance to customs officials. The insurance must cover the entire length of the stay. If you do not have proof of insurance coverage, you may be required to obtain health insurance from a Lithuanian insurance company when you arrive.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is only available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

You may be at risk in remote, rural areas if you have existing health problems.

Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate payment for health services.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Lithuania are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Lithuania to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Lithuania authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Lithuanian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Lithuanian society.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Lithuania.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Lithuania, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Lithuania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Lithuania, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Lithuanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Lithuania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Export of religious items and antiquities

Strict regulations are in place on exporting religious items or antiquities. If you purchase or acquire any such item while in Lithuania, confirm with local authorities if you may export such items with you before attempting to leave.

You can drive in Lithuania with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for 90 days.

However, you should carry an international driving permit.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.04 percent for experienced drivers and 0.00 percent for new drivers, motorcyclists, taxi drivers and truck drivers. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver's licence and your vehicle on the spot. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines or jail sentences.

The police are not required to respond to minor road accidents where there are no injuries to persons and both parties agree that police presence is not needed. In case of disagreement, do not move the vehicle(s) until the police arrive.

Car insurance is mandatory. Border officials may request that you show them original documents.

• Driving in Lithuania  - European Commission
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency of Lithuania is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Expect cold temperatures, snowstorms and windstorms in winter.

These conditions can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. If you decide to travel to Lithuania during this period:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Roadside assistance

Dial 1414 for roadside assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the office of the Canadian Embassy in Lithuania, in Vilnius, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Lithuania set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Lithuania.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Lithuania, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Lithuania (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Embassy of Lithuania in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Lithuania). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Lithuania .

At border control, you may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for a second home
• show proof of your travel insurance
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay – the amount varies depending on your accommodation

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Lithuania and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Apply for a visa

To stay longer (for example, to work, study or for business) you must meet the Lithuanian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Embassy of Lithuania in the UK .

If you stay in Lithuania with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

You can apply online at Lithuania’s Migration Department .

Arrivals from Belarus, Ukraine or Russia, including the Kaliningrad Oblast

If you have arrived in Lithuania from Belarus, Ukraine or Russia (including the Kaliningrad Oblast) and need help, call +370 5246 2900 and select the option for “calling about an emergency involving a British national.” You can also send an enquiry via the web contact form.

British nationals can travel to Lithuania from Belarus, Russia or Ukraine by car or bus.

For more information, please see our Russia Travel Advice .

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro ’s Lithuania guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Lithuania . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Lithuania

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Restrictions on Russian vehicles

There are restrictions on vehicles with Russian licence plates in Lithuania. See Lithuania’s Customs Department for more information .

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The best time to visit Lithuania is late spring or summer, when there’s usually enough fine weather to allow you to stroll around the cities and make significant forays into the great outdoors. On the whole though, the only thing that’s predictable about the Baltic climate is the deep, dark winters – in all other seasons the weather can be changeable in the extreme.

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Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.

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Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

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Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

Summers are relatively short (roughly mid-June to late August), and although you may well experience a string of hot, dry days during this period, showers and chilly nights are equally likely. Remember to pack a waterproof jacket and warm sweater alongside your T-shirts.

Temperatures cool down rapidly from mid-September onwards, although autumn can be an extraordinarily beautiful season in which to visit, with the golden brown leaves of deciduous trees contrasting with the dark-green pines.

The first snowfalls can come as early as mid-November, and by early to mid-December winter sets in with a vengeance. Average daytime temperatures can remain below zero right through until March, plummeting to minus 15–20°C in particularly cold spells. Winter can of course be a magical time, with lakes, rivers and large expanses of the Baltic Sea freezing over, and crunchy snow cover adding an air of enchantment to medieval city centres. However, rural areas can be difficult to get to without a four-wheel-drive vehicle (only the main highways are showploughed), and you’ll have to be well togged up in order to endure anything but the shortest of walks. Wherever you are in winter, some form of hat or head covering is absolutely essential.

Even when the spring thaw sets in, the countryside can remain grey and barren until well into April (or even May in northern Estonia), when a sudden explosion of colour transforms the landscape. The countryside takes on a green lushness, drawing cattle and horses out from their winter barns, while city-dwellers indulge in a frenzied stampede for the pavement cafés.

The Rough Guides to Lithuania and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Lithuania

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Lithuania

• Culture and Etiquette in Lithuania
• Eating and drinking in Lithuania
• Getting around Lithuania: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Lithuania
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Lithuania

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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What to do in Vilnius, Lithuania - 2 Day Itinerary & Helpful Travel Tips

T he Baltic countries remain one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. And out of those three states, Lithuania is the least-known country. While many travelers visit Tallinn and Riga , only a few make it to Vilnius. Here are our tips on what to do in Vilnius and helpful tips and things to know before you visit the city.

Take advantage of this hidden gem and visit a beautiful city with stunning architecture, a vibrant history and lots of things to do in Vilnius. And the best of it? Even during high season, you won’t see as many tourists as in other European capital cities.

Vilnius has so much to offer that you can easily spend three or four days here. But even if you’re short on time and only have two days, you’ll enjoy this city. Let us show you everything that Vilnius has to offer with this two-day itinerary.

What to do in Vilnius – 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1 vilnius itinerary, cathedral square.

Start your day right in the heart of Vilnius, at Cathedral Square. The legend goes that a pagan temple once stood here. When the grand-duke of Lithuania converted to Christianity, he decided to replace that temple with a cathedral.

The square itself is only around 200 years old. Before, the area was densely populated, just like the rest of Vilnius Old Town. While here, make sure to go into the cathedral. You can find more splendidly decorated churches in the Old Town (we especially liked the Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit), but the cathedral is worth a visit to see the many graves of Lithuanian rulers and Grand Dukes. The oldest ones date back to the 15th century.

Gediminas Hill

From Cathedral Square, it’s only a short walk to Gediminas Hill. You have the choice between walking or taking a funicular. The hill isn’t very high, and the funicular ride takes less than a minute, but from the top, you have a great view of Vilnius Old Town.

On top of the hill, you will see old fortifications. Those are the remains of the Upper Castle. Gediminas, who ruled Lithuania as a Grand Duke in the 14th century, constructed the first castle in this strategic location.

At the edge of the fortifications, overlooking the Old Town, you can see a tower. A Polish architect reconstructed Gedminas Tower in 1933, the only part of the building that got reconstructed until now. Inside, you can find an exhibition about old Vilnius and the history of the castle.

If you want to learn even more about Vilnius and its history, visit the Old and the New Arsenal which you can find just below Gediminas Hill. They house part of the Vilnius City Museum. In the Old Arsenal, you can learn about ancient history, while the New Arsenal is all about the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Old Town Vilnius

From Gediminas Hill, walk south to get into the Old Town of Vilnius. On your way, stop by the Presidential Palace. On Sundays, you can see a flag hoisting ceremony here. Going inside with a guided tour is free, but you need to reserve your spot in advance.

Your next stop is the University of Vilnius so that you can visit St John’s Church. If you want to, you can climb to the top of the Bell Tower. From here, you can once again enjoy Vilnius from above.

While walking through the Old Town, make sure to check out Literatų gatvė, Literature Street. This cobblestone street is famous for the many plaques on the walls, dedicated to authors from Vilnius. Literature Street is a great photo spot and also an excellent place to learn about Lithuanian literature.

In the historic center of Vilnius, you will find lots and lots of churches – 28 to be exact. As already mentioned above, we recommended that you visit the Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit. The interior looks stunning with its green iconostasis. Besides that, you can find many more churches worth visiting. Just keep your eyes open while walking around.

The Old Town is also a great place to buy souvenirs. Along the cobblestone streets, you will find many handicraft shops. In some of them, you can even watch the artists while they work, so the Old Town is perfect for finding authentic Lithuanian crafts.

If you’re getting hungry, step into one of the many cafes and enjoy some baked goods and snacks.

Gate of Dawn

At the southern end of the Old Town, you will find the Gate of Dawn. This gate is the only one that remains from the City Wall that once surrounded Vilnius.

Today, the Gate of Dawn is famous for its painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy. This icon attracts pilgrims from not just Lithuania but all over the world. Initially, locals placed the artefact here to protect the city against attacks and to bless travelers.

Make sure to go into the chapel where you can see the icon. Like in most churches in Vilnius, the ornate decorations stand out and make going inside worth it.

Republic of Uzupis

No visit to Vilnius would be complete without a visit to the Republic of Uzupis . This neighborhood on the other side of the Vilnia river used to be one of the most problematic areas in town. Crime ran high, putting Uzupis at the top of the Lithuanian crime statistics. Murders weren’t unusual, and the only people who moved here were those who absolutely couldn’t afford to live elsewhere.

Then, the Soviet Union collapsed, and people started seeing the potential of Uzupis. Artists moved in, the crime rate went down, and Uzupis transformed into one of Vilnius’ most expensive neighborhoods.

In 1998, local artists declared the independence of the Republic of Uzupis. Of course, nobody else recognises the neighbourhood as an independent country, especially since it started as an April Fools’ Day Joke. But that didn’t stop the republic from creating its own government, flag, anthem and constitution. For a while, Uzupis even had an army of  11 men, which eventually retired.

While walking through Uzupis, keep your eyes open to discover lots of fantastic street art. Along the roads, you’ll find cafes and art galleries.

Down by the river, you can see the Uzupio Kavine. This cafe also serves as a government building, and the parliament of the Republic of Uzupis meets here regularly.

Further uphill, you’ll run into the Angel of Uzupis, which is one of the nation’s most recognisable monuments. If you now turn right, you’ll see the constitution, translated into more than 30 languages. 

Dinner at Etno Dvaras

Tonight, you should try Lithuanian food . Lithuanian cuisine, while not well-known internationally, is hearty, filling, and tasty. The best place to sample an assortment of local dishes is Etno Dvaras, a restaurant that specializes in Lithuanian cuisine.

As a starter, order Kepta Duona. Lithuanians love eating dark rye bread so much that they’ve transformed it into a delicious treat – fried breadsticks. You can find those all over Lithuania, usually served together with a beer in bars. In Etno Dvaras, they come with a delicious cheese sauce.

As a main dish, we recommend going for something with potatoes. Potatoes play a massive role in Lithuanian cuisine, and you’ll find it hard to discover as many variations elsewhere.

Try the Cepelinai, for example, potato dumplings shaped like zeppelins. They usually come with sour cream and locals often refer to them as Lithuania’s national dish. Or have some potato pancakes, made of grated potatoes fried in a pan. One of the more unusual potato dishes is the potato sausage, a sausage skin filled with mashed potatoes and bacon bits instead of meat. If you visit Vilnius in summer, you’ll enjoy the Saltibarsciai. This cold beetroot soup is perfect for hot summer days.

Day 2 Vilnius Itinerary

Trakai half-day trip.

Start your second day early and hop on a bus to Trakai .

Buses regularly leave from the central bus terminal, right next to the train station, and you can buy your ticket from the driver. The ride takes between 30 and 40 minutes, and you’ll arrive at the bus station a bit south of Trakai.

The town of Trakai is famous for two things. First, you can find the Trakai Island Castle here. And second, this area is home to the Karaites, a Turkish minority living in Lithuania.

Historians think that Grand Duke Vytautas brought them to Trakai in the 1400s as castle guards. Around 60 of them still live in the area, and this is the perfect place to learn more about their culture. You can find an exhibition inside the Island Castle, or you can visit the Karaim Ethnographic Museum in Trakai. 

For centuries, Trakai played an essential role in Lithuania . While Vilnius was always the capital city, Trakai, with its Island Castle, served as an administrative center. Also, many foreign guests and diplomats stayed here.

From the Old Town of Trakai, you can reach the castle via a bridge. The structure consists of multiple buildings, with the tallest one housing the most exciting exhibition. Here, you can learn everything about the history of Trakai and the Island Castle.

On your way out, you’ll pass a smaller building in which you can see a collection of artefacts that once belonged to the owners of the castle.

Be aware that you need to pay extra for permission to take photos on the castle grounds and that the museum is closed on Mondays!

Besides visiting the Island Castle and the Ethnographic Museum, you should go for a walk through the Old Town. Here, you can find many colourful wooden houses. If the weather is nice, stroll along the lake or take a boat ride across the water. After exploring Trakai, go back to the bus station and take a bus to Vilnius.

Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, sometimes also called the Genocide Museum. You can find this museum in the former KGB headquarters, which, before the KGB, served as the Gestapo headquarters.

As you can imagine, a lot of grim history happened here. The basement used to serve as a prison, and we suggest that you start your visit here. Most of the cells are small and damp and staying here, especially in winter, must have been a nightmare. But some cells are even worse. The padded one, for example, with the straitjacket. If you got thrown in here, nobody would ever hear your screams.

Make sure to exit into the courtyard and cross into the execution chamber. Between 1944 and the 1960s, KGB officials executed more than 1,000 prisoners here.

On the upper floors of the building, you can find an exhibition about resistance to the Soviet Union. You’ll also find a small collection about the persecution of Jews in Lithuania. Some of the inscriptions down in the cells date back to the early 1940s when the Gestapo used the building.

Lithuanian Dinner

After leaving the museum, stroll down Gedimino prospektas. This street connects the museum to Cathedral Square, and you can find lots of shops here. Close to Cathedral Square, it turns into a pedestrian zone, and you’ll also see restaurants on both sides.

If you’re hungry, start looking for a place to sit down and eat. We recommend going once again for Lithuanian food. Maybe try some herring or cabbage rolls this time. Or switch things up and go to a bar, to eat fried breadsticks and wash them down with Lithuanian beer.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Vilnius

How to get around vilnius.

You can walk between most of the stops mentioned in the itinerary above. The Old Town of Vilnius is relatively compact, and it’s worth going on foot to take in the architecture.

If you get tired, you can catch either a bus or a taxi. 

For going to the central bus station take bus number 2, which stops right behind Gediminas Hill. As an alternative, depending on where you’re staying, you should have no problem flagging down a taxi or walking.

Best time to visit Vilnius

You can visit Vilnius all year long. Summer is a great season because you will experience good weather. Cafes place tables in the street, and the sun goes down late, so you can spend the evenings going for long walks along the water.

On the downside, you’ll run into lots of other tourists in summer. If you want to avoid the crowds, go in spring or autumn, when the weather is nice, but the city doesn’t get as crowded.

In winter, you will see almost no foreign tourists. That means you have most tourist attractions (almost) to yourself. On the downside, the weather can be wet and rainy. If you’re lucky, you will experience snow. Trakai looks incredible when the lake freezes over, and you have the chance to walk over the ice to the castle. And the Old Town of Vilnius is a spectacular sight with all roofs covered with snow.

What to do in Vilnius – 2 Day Itinerary & Helpful Travel Tips was written by Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights . Daniel and Ilona met in Turkmenistan and kept traveling together. At the moment, they are based in Germany and spend as much time exploring Europe as possible. They especially like trying weird and tasty food and visiting lesser-known places. On their blog Top Travel Sights, they write about their experiences and share their best advice with fellow travelers. Check out their blog, Facebook , Instagram , and Pinterest .

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