Lithuania

Lithuania: general info for travelers

Lithuania is a country located in Northern Europe. It is the southernmost of the three Baltic States, bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east and south, Poland to the south, and the Baltic Sea to the west. It covers an area of approximately 65,300 square kilometers and has a population of around 2.8 million people. Its capital and largest city is Vilnius, known for its baroque architecture, historical landmarks, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lithuania has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of national identity, reflected in its traditions, music, cuisine, and language. The country is also known for its natural beauty, including dense forests, rolling hills, sprawling lakes, and scenic coastline.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Lithuania, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Lithuania: places to visit

Certainly! Here are some of the must-visit places in Lithuania: 1. Vilnius Old Town - The historic center of the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Gediminas Tower and Cathedral Square.
2. Trakai Island Castle - A picturesque castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, Trakai Island Castle is a well-preserved example of medieval fortress architecture.
3. Hill of Crosses - Located in northern Lithuania, the Hill of Crosses is a pilgrimage site and a unique symbol of Lithuanian culture, with over 100,000 crosses placed by visitors over the years.
4. Curonian Spit - A long, narrow sand dune peninsula that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea, the Curonian Spit is a natural wonder that offers beautiful vistas and a wide range of outdoor activities.
5. Palanga Botanical Park - Home to over 500 different species of plants, the Palanga Botanical Park is a charming place to relax and explore, with winding paths, small ponds, and picturesque bridges.
6. Aukštaitija National Park - One of the country's most popular national parks, Aukštaitija boasts stunning natural beauty, including pristine lakes and forests, as well as cultural landmarks like the Ladakalnis Hill Fort.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in Lithuania - there is truly something for everyone in this beautiful country!
There is more to see and do in Lithuania: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Lithuania: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Lithuania, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Lithuania has a moderate continental climate, which means that it has distinct seasons. In general, summers are warm and winters are cold, but the temperatures can vary depending on the region. Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the countryside, and attend festivals.
Autumn (September to November) is mild, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F). This season is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy the fall colors and the harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F). This is the time for winter sports in Lithuania's ski resorts.
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful season to visit Lithuania because of the blooming flowers and trees. Temperatures rise from around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), making it a comfortable season to explore the country's cities, towns, and countryside.
In summary, the best time to visit Lithuania depends on your interests and activities. Summer is ideal for outdoor adventures, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Spring and autumn are great for sightseeing and exploring nature in a more relaxed and peaceful environment.

Lithuania: activities and what to do

There are plenty of activities and sports to do on holiday in Lithuania. Here are some options: 1. Cycling: Lithuania has many scenic cycling routes, from the forests to the coast. The country has a good bike infrastructure, so you can rent a bike at any time and explore its beauty.
2. Kayaking / Canoeing: Lithuania is also known for its beautiful rivers, which makes it a perfect destination for kayaking and canoeing. The rivers Nemunas, Neris, and Dubysa have fantastic routes for all skill levels.
3. Hiking: The country has various routes for hiking, ranging from forests and meadows to breathtaking coastlines. Some of the most popular trails are Biržai Regional Park, Aukštaitija National Park, and Curonian Spit National Park.
4. Sightseeing: Lithuania has a rich history and culture, and there are numerous places to visit, including museums, castles, and national parks. You can visit Trakai Castle, Vilnius Old Town, and the Hill of Crosses to learn about the country's history.
5. Beach sports: If you're visiting Lithuania during the summer, there are plenty of beach sports like beach volleyball, windsurfing, and kitesurfing to enjoy on the shores of the Baltic Sea.
6. Winter sports: During the winter, Lithuania offers skiing and snowboarding facilities such as "Snow Arena" in Druskininkai, which is one of the biggest indoor skiing facilities in Europe.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports available in Lithuania; there’s something to suit everyone’s preferences and skill levels.

Lithuania: few words on history and culture

Lithuania has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was once a powerful kingdom known as the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which ruled over much of Eastern Europe. Throughout the centuries, Lithuania has been influenced by various cultures, including Nordic, Germanic, Slavic, and Jewish.
Lithuanian culture is very unique and is based on its long-standing traditions, folklore, and artistic heritage. The traditional Lithuanian cuisine is famous for its variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including potatoes, mushrooms, and berries.
Lithuania also has a vibrant arts scene, and its literature, music, and art have gained worldwide recognition. Famous Lithuanian artists include composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, painter and illustrator Eglė Žvirblytė, and author Rūta Šepetys.
Religion also plays an important role in Lithuania's culture, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic. The country is also home to various historic churches and monasteries that serve as important cultural and religious landmarks.

Lithuania: how to move around on holiday

The most convenient means of transport to reach Lithuania depends on where you are coming from. If you are traveling internationally, the main international airports in Lithuania are Vilnius International Airport (VNO) and Kaunas International Airport (KUN). You can fly into either of these two airports from major cities such as London, Berlin, Warsaw, and Moscow among others.
Once you arrive in Lithuania, there are several modes of transportation available to help you get around. The bus and train network is comprehensive and affordable, with buses being more frequent and covering more routes than trains. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in major cities, but they can be more expensive than other modes of transport.
If you prefer to explore Lithuania at a more relaxed pace, renting a car is an excellent option. Driving in Lithuania is relatively easy, and there are many car rental options available at the airports and in major cities. Alternatively, cycling is also a popular way to explore Lithuania's picturesque countryside. To hire a car to visit Lithuania, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Lithuania: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Lithuania with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Some of the typical foods of Lithuania are: 1. Cepelinai - also known as "zeppelins," these are large potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cottage cheese, and usually served with bacon and sour cream.
2. Kugelis - this is a potato pudding made with grated potatoes, eggs, milk, and sometimes bacon or sausage. It's a hearty dish often served as a main course.
3. Borscht - this is a vegetable soup made with beets, potatoes, carrots, and sometimes meat or mushrooms. It can be served hot or cold, and is often accompanied by sour cream.
4. Skilandis - a smoked meat dish made from ground pork or beef mixed with garlic, salt, and pepper, then smoked over wood chips until it's fully cooked.
5. Kibinai - these are pastry pockets filled with meat or vegetables such as mushrooms and onions. They are often baked or fried and served as a snack or light meal.
6. Sakotis - a popular dessert often served at special occasions, sakotis is a cake made by slowly pouring batter over a spit that rotates over an open flame. The cake takes on a tree-ring-like appearance and is often decorated with icing or fruit.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and traditional foods you can find in Lithuania!

Lithuania: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

No, Lithuania is not an expensive country for tourists. In fact, it is one of the most affordable countries to travel to in Europe. Prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are relatively low compared to other European countries. So if you're planning on taking a trip to Lithuania, you can expect to stretch your budget a little further than in other more expensive destinations.

Lithuania: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Lithuania: 1. Online travel agencies such as Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels and apartments.
2. Local tourism websites such as Vilnius-Tourism.lt and Kaunas-Tourism.lt provide information about accommodation options in the major cities.
3. Hostelworld.com and Hostelbookers.com offer a wide selection of hostels in Lithuania, especially in the larger cities.
4. Couchsurfing.com is an online platform that connects travelers with locals who are willing to offer accommodation for free.
5. You can also consider staying with a Lithuanian family through websites such as Homestay.com and Homestayin.com. It's always best to read reviews from other travelers before booking your accommodation to ensure that you find a comfortable and reliable option.
You can check hotel prices in Lithuania here:
Booking.com

Lithuania: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Lithuanian Department of Tourism, around 3 million tourists visited Lithuania in 2019. The most popular months for tourism in Lithuania are usually from June to August, as well as public holidays and weekends. Some popular events such as music festivals and Christmas markets can also bring in large crowds. However, in general, Lithuania is not as crowded as some other European destinations, and travelers can enjoy the country's attractions relatively peacefully throughout the year.
Generally, Lithuania is a safe country for tourists. However, as with any destination, tourists should exercise caution in certain areas, especially at night in urban areas, where mugging and pickpocketing can occur. Some areas with higher crime rates include certain neighborhoods in Vilnius and Kaunas, as well as train and bus stations.
Tourists should also be aware of the risks of credit card fraud and internet scams. It's recommended to use ATMs in well-lit, public areas. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Overall, Lithuania is relatively safe for tourists, and exercising common sense and taking precautions can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Lithuania on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Lithuania: events for tourists

Lithuania has many interesting events throughout the year to offer to tourists, here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Kaziukas Fair - Held in Vilnius every year in March, this is the biggest and oldest annual folk arts and crafts fair in Lithuania.
2. Vilnius City Fiesta - This is a three-day annual festival in September, featuring street musicians, artists, dancers, and food vendors.
3. International Film Festival - This festival takes place in Vilnius every year in March and features local and international films, workshops, and events.
4. Song and Dance Celebration - Held every four years, this event is a celebration of Lithuanian culture and tradition through music, dance, and costumes.
5. Christmas Markets - During December, cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda host Christmas markets where vendors sell traditional Lithuanian food, crafts, and gifts.
These are just a few examples, but Lithuania has many other events and festivals that may interest tourists, depending on their interests and preferences.

Lithuania: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Lithuania, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Absolutely! Here is a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Lithuania: Day 1: Start in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Visit the historic Old Town and see landmarks like the Cathedral of Sts. Stanislaus and Vladislav, and the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Day 2: Take a day trip to Trakai Castle, a beautiful 14th-century fortress located on a lake. Day 3-4: Explore the Curonian Spit, a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of a long, thin sand dune peninsula with beautiful beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and unique vegetation.
Day 5-7: Continue your journey to beautiful Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city. Visit the Old Town and explore a number of interesting museums like the Ninth Fort Museum, the Devil's Museum, and the Kaunas Castle.
Day 8-9: Visit the Hill of Crosses in Northern Lithuania, a stunning monument featuring thousands of crosses atop a hill. Day 10-12: Drive to the beautiful Aukstaitija National Park located in the eastern part of Lithuania full of forests, lakes and local ethnic area with original houses and traditions Day 13-14: Finally, end your trip by heading south to Dzūkija national park and explore the beautiful landscapes and see endangered species of animals.
I hope this helps you plan a great trip to Lithuania!

Lithuania: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Lithuania described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Akmene is a city located in the northern part of Lithuania. It has a population of approximately 10,000 people and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by beauti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akmene
- Anykščiai is a town in northeastern Lithuania that has a population of around 11,000 people. It is located in the Aukštaitija National Park, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anyksciai
- Birštonas is a small town located in central Lithuania, known for its natural mineral water and tranquil surroundings. It is situated on the banks of the Nemunas river and surrounded by dense forests ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Birštonas
- Druskininkai is a town located in southern Lithuania and is known for its natural mineral water springs, therapeutic spas, and beautiful natural surroundings. It is home to numerous cultural and histo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Druskininkai
- Gargždai is a small town in western Lithuania, located in the Klaipėda district. It has a population of approximately 7,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Minija River. The town has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gargždai
- Ignalina is a town in northeastern Lithuania, located about 90 km north of the capital, Vilnius. It is situated on the banks of the Snaigynas River and surrounded by dense forests and lakes. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ignalina
- Joniškis is a small town located in the northern part of Lithuania. It has a population of approximately 11,000 people and is known for its beautiful parks, historical architecture, and vibrant cultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Joniškis
- Jurbarkas is a small town in Lithuania situated in the southwestern part of the country, near the Nemunas River. It has a population of around 13,000 people and is known for its rich history and cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jurbarkas
- Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania, located in the central part of the country. With a population of over 300,000 people, it is an important cultural, economic, and academic center. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaunas
- Kedainiai is a historic town in central Lithuania, located on the banks of the river Nevėžis. It is the fourth largest city in the Kaunas County and has a population of around 30,000 people. Kedainiai... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kedainiai
- Kelme is a town located in the north-western part of Lithuania, approximately 50 km east of the Baltic Sea. It is the administrative center of the Kelme district municipality. With a population of aro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kelme
- Klaipeda is a city located in western Lithuania, situated on the shore of the Baltic Sea. With a population of around 150,000 people, it is the third-largest city in the country. Klaipeda is an import... CONTINUE here for a trip to Klaipeda
- Kretinga is a town located in the western part of Lithuania, about 12 kilometers from the Baltic Sea. It has a population of around 20,000 people and covers an area of 7.8 square kilometers. It is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kretinga
- Kybartai is a small town located in the southwestern part of Lithuania, close to the border with Belarus. The town has a population of around 2,700 people and is situated on the banks of the Neman Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kybartai
- Lentvaris is a small town located in the eastern part of Lithuania, about 25 kilometers from the capital city of Vilnius. It is situated near the beautiful Lake Galve, which makes it a popular destina... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lentvaris
- Marijampolė is a city in the southern part of Lithuania, located approximately 45 kilometers west of the country's second-largest city, Kaunas. The city has a population of around 35,000 people and is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marijampole
- Mažeikiai is a city located in the northwestern part of Lithuania. It has a population of approximately 34,000 people and is the fifth-largest city in the region. The city is known for its oil refiner... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mažeikiai
- Moletai is a small town and municipality located in the eastern part of Lithuania, in the Aukstaitija region. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is situated on the shore of Lake Moletai, w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moletai
- Neringa is a resort area located in Lithuania and is situated on the Curonian Spit, which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Curonian Spit is a narrow piece of land that separates the Curonian Lagoo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Neringa
- Pakruojis is a town in northern Lithuania, located around 150 km from the capital city of Vilnius. It has a population of approximately 8,000 people and is known for its historic architecture, includi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pakruojis
- Palanga is a seaside resort town located on the western coast of Lithuania, along the Baltic Sea. It is known for its long sandy beaches, sand dunes, and beautiful sea views. Palanga is also famous fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palanga
- Panevežys is a city in northern Lithuania and is the fifth-largest city in the country. It is located on the banks of the Nevezis river and has a population of around 95,000 people. Panevežys has a ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Panevežys
- Plunge is a small town in northwestern Lithuania that has a population of approximately 22,000 people. It is a historic town that has been inhabited since the 11th century and was granted city status ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Plunge
- Prienai is a small town located in the southern part of Lithuania, about 100 kilometers from the capital city of Vilnius. The town has a population of around 9,000 people and is situated on the banks ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Prienai
- Radviliškis is a small city located in the Northern part of Lithuania. It has a population of around 16,000 people and is known for its beautiful green spaces, historic architecture, and rich cultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Radviliškis
- Raseiniai is a town in western Lithuania located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) west of the capital city, Vilnius. It has a population of around 12,000 people. The town is situated in a scenic area wi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Raseiniai
- Rokiškis is a town located in northeastern Lithuania, near the border with Latvia. It has a population of around 13,000 people and is known for its beautiful old town, Rokiškis Manor, and the annual R... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rokiškis
- Šiauliai is the fourth largest city in Lithuania, located in the northern part of the country. It is a cultural, educational, and industrial center with a rich history dating back to the 13th century.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siauliai
- Skuodas is a town located in the Northwestern part of Lithuania, in the region of Klaipeda. It has a population of around 5,000 people. Skuodas is known for its beautiful landscapes, including picture... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skuodas
- Taurage is a town in the western part of Lithuania, situated near the Latvian border. It is located in the Taurage district municipality and has a population of approximately 25,000 people. The town i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taurage
- Trakai is a small historic city located in Lithuania, about 28 kilometers west of the capital city, Vilnius. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and the striking Trakai Isl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trakai
- Utena is a city in northeastern Lithuania, located approximately 100 kilometers north-east of Vilnius. It has a population of around 26,000 people and covers an area of 15 square kilometers. It is sit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Utena
- Varena is a town located in the southeast part of Lithuania, approximately 73 kilometers southwest of the capital city, Vilnius. It is situated on the shores of the Sventoji River and surrounded by de... CONTINUE here for a trip to Varena
- Vilnius is the capital city of Lithuania, located in the southeastern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 540,000 people and covers an area of 401 square kilometers. Vilnius has ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vilnius
- Zarasai is a town in northeastern Lithuania, situated on the shores of Lake Zarasas. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including forests and lakes. The town has a rich history and cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zarasai
- Šakiai is a small town located in western Lithuania, in the region of Marijampolė County. It has a population of around 7,000 people and is known for its historic wooden architecture, beautiful parks,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šakiai
- Šalcininkai is a town in southeastern Lithuania, located near the border with Belarus. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is the administrative center of the Šalčininkai district municipal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šalcininkai
- Šilalė is a small town located in western Lithuania, near the border with Latvia. It has a population of about 5,000 people and it dates back to the 13th century. The town is surrounded by beautiful f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šilale
- Šilutė is a town municipality located in the western part of Lithuania, near the border with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. It is situated on the banks of the Nemunas River and has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šilute
- Šventoji is a small town located on the coast of the Baltic Sea in northern Lithuania. It is situated about 12 km north of Palanga, a popular resort town. Šventoji is known for its beautiful sandy bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šventoji


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