A Beginner's Guide to Lithuania

Lithuania, one of Europe’s hidden treasures, is adorned with shimmering lakes, lush forests, and the captivating shores of the Baltic Sea.

However, this country offers more than just breathtaking landscapes. The cobblestone streets of its capital, Vilnius, are lined with stunning spired churches showcasing baroque artistry, while the art deco buildings of its second city, Kaunas, have recently received UNESCO recognition.

Beyond Vilnius and Kaunas, Lithuania is full of diverse attractions. The remnants of pagan culture can still be felt in Europe’s last country to embrace Christianity, evident in the wooden grave markers known as krikštai and folkloric carvings throughout the land; the wrought-iron artistry of the poignant Hill of Crosses in Šiauliai; and the medieval music resonating at alternative festivals like Mėnuo Juodaragis and Jotvos Vartai.

And that’s not all. Indulge in the spa treatments of Druskininkai. Discover remnants of Lithuania’s Soviet history at Grūto Parkas sculpture park, the Atomic Bunker in Kaunas, the Cold War Museum at Žemaitija National Park, and the Ignalina nuclear power station. Explore traditional villages in Dzūkija National Park, enjoy vibrant nightlife in beachfront Palanga, and traverse the enchanting Curonian Spit’s coastline, forests, and sand dunes on foot or by bike.

At these locations and beyond, you’ll uncover the unique allure that makes Lithuania so fascinating.

When is the best time to visit Lithuania?

You can visit Lithuania throughout the year, but it truly shines in the high summer months, when the days are long, nights are short, and the Baltic Sea is pleasantly warm. During summer, Lithuanians celebrate with a variety of festivals: notable events include Klaipėda’s 4-day nautical Sea Festival, the Lithuanian Song and Dance Festival in Vilnius, Palanga’s vibrant Summer Festival, and the medieval festivities of the midsummer Rasos Feast at Kernavė. Since July and August attract crowds to the stunning beaches and forests of the Curonian Spit, consider staying in quieter villages like Preila and Pervalka instead of the bustling tourist center of Nida.

Late spring is a joy, featuring an abundance of wildflowers across the countryside. From September to November, enjoy numerous sunny days perfect for hiking and cycling in various national parks, all while avoiding crowds and witnessing the beautiful fall foliage. Crisp evenings in early spring and late autumn are ideal for enjoying events like the Vilnius International Film Festival, Mama Jazz, and Kaunas Jazz Festival.

Winter (December to February) can attract budget-savvy travelers, as it sees fewer tourists, affordable accommodations (except around the Christmas/New Year period), and the historic centers of Vilnius and Kaunas, along with Trakai Castle, appearing particularly enchanting under a layer of snow.

How long should I stay in Lithuania?

You can experience a lot in a weekend in Lithuania, from soaking in the ambiance of Vilnius to exploring the stunning Trakai Island Castle—an easy day trip from the capital. Lithuania also offers rich rewards for those who wish to explore at a more leisurely pace.

If your time is limited to a couple of days, dedicate at least one of them to Vilnius. Stroll through its charming cobblestone Old Town, climb Gediminas Hill, visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, and discover the unique “mini-republic” of Užupis.

With four days, take a bus west to Klaipėda and then a ferry to the Curonian Spit, where you can hike and cycle its scenic trails, ascend towering sand dunes, visit an excellent amber museum, relax on white-sand beaches, and explore quaint fishing villages. Alternatively, head northeast to Aukštaitija National Park for forest hikes between traditional villages and paddleboarding on tranquil lakes.

If you have an entire week, venture south to Druskininkai to enjoy its mineral waters and wander among the Soviet-era statues at Grūto Parkas. Pay a visit to the Hill of Crosses, explore a Soviet nuclear bunker in Žemaitija National Park, and savor traditional farmhouse-style beer in Biržai.

Is it easy to get around Lithuania?

Lithuania’s two main airports, located in Vilnius and Kaunas, offer direct flights to various cities across Europe. From Vilnius International Airport, buses 1 and 2 frequently run to the city center (about 25 minutes); there’s also a train service from the airport (once an hour; 10 minutes), with taxis and Bolt rides available at reasonable prices (€10–15). Kaunas International Airport can be accessed via bus 29G from the city center, taking 45 minutes to an hour; a taxi ride (around 30 minutes) costs less than €20. The small Palanga airport services a few international destinations, with bus 100 scheduled to align with flights.

Once you arrive in Lithuania, getting around is simple. Vilnius and Kaunas have an extensive network of affordable public buses. City centers are very pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions located close together. Cyclists will appreciate the expanding bike lane networks, with bicycles easily available for rent from various docking stations; Bolt electric scooters are also an option. Cycling is an excellent way to discover the Baltic coast, including the Curonian Spit and the Nemunas Delta, as well as the forest-covered Aukštaitija and Žemaitija National Parks.

Comfortable and affordable trains are particularly handy for traveling between Vilnius and Kaunas, Ignalina, and Šiauliai. For other routes, intercity buses—which connect all major cities and towns—are usually the faster choice. If you prefer maximum flexibility, consider renting a car for travel between multiple destinations. The roads are well-maintained, signage is clear, and parking is generally available, except in cobblestoned town centers.

Must-see attractions in Lithuania

After exploring Vilnius’ Cathedral Square, meandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town, admiring the stunning architecture, and climbing Gediminas Hill, consider diving into the city’s unique attractions. The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights offers a sobering yet fascinating insight into how Lithuanians preserved their culture during periods of Polish, German, and Soviet occupation. Another symbol of resilience is the artistic enclave of Užupis. If you’re curious about Soviet history, don’t miss Vilnius’ newest attraction: Lukiškių Kalėjimas 2.0, a former prison now transformed into an arts space.

For dining in Vilnius, choose from Lithuanian favorites like potato pancakes, pork roasts, and dumplings at the quirky Etno Dvaras, or enjoy tasting menus featuring innovative Baltic cuisine, paired with carefully selected wines or unique house-made nonalcoholic drinks at Nineteen18 (reservations recommended). In Kaunas, savor hearty stews and beetroot soup in a rustic farm-themed setting at Bernelių Užeiga, or book a table at Uoksas for menus that highlight sustainable, seasonal ingredients sourced from the Baltic Sea.

A quick half-day excursion from Vilnius leads you to Trakai, where you’ll find Lithuania’s most enchanting castle. Set on an island in Lake Galvė, it’s best enjoyed by renting a stand-up paddleboard for stunning views from all sides. Don’t miss the Karaite Ethnographic Museum on Trakai’s main street to discover the intriguing history of the Karaites, Lithuania’s smallest ethnic group, and be sure to sample Karaite kibinai (meat-filled pastries) at one of the lakeside eateries.

Beyond its delightful Old Town, Kaunas boasts two essential apartments that showcase the city’s art deco charm. Small-group “experiential” tours guide visitors through the Art Deco Museum and the Amsterdam School Museum, where beautifully restored rooms adorned with period decor are complemented by sparkling wine served in cut-crystal glasses, all while sharing tales of the apartments’ original residents.

What’s my top recommendation for activities in Lithuania?

A stay on the Curonian Spit is enchanting. Nestled in one of four quaint former fishing villages along this slender, pine-covered stretch that extends into the Baltic Sea, I relish exploring the trails that wind through its pine and birch forests, foraging for berries in summer, mushrooms in autumn, and refreshing myself with dips in the brisk waters.

There's nothing quite like welcoming the sunrise from the summit of Parnidis Dune, the largest of the dunes that have earned this area the title of “Lithuania’s Sahara.” I also delight in discovering the secrets of amber at Nida’s modern Mizgiris Amber Museum, connecting with devil and witch sculptures on Witches’ Hill in Juodkrantė, and sailing on the Curonian Lagoon by day, savoring its shimmering waters on a long summer evening while enjoying freshly smoked eel from the local village.

What budget should I expect for a trip to Lithuania?

Visiting Lithuania is quite budget-friendly, though accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on whether you're enjoying the bustling summer by the Baltic Sea or experiencing the quiet winter in the cities.

• Stay in a dormitory: €15–25

• Basic double room: €35–65

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €45–100

• Public transport ticket: €1 for a single bus ride

• Coffee: €1.50

• Sandwich: €5

• Dinner for two: €25–60

• Bicycle rental: starting at €5/15 per hour/day

• Pint of beer: €3

• Museum entry: €3–7

• Art deco tour: €24

Common questions about traveling to Lithuania

Which languages are spoken in Lithuania?

Lithuanian is the official language. While many older individuals speak Russian, those in their 20s and 30s generally have a strong command of English.

How is the nightlife in Lithuania?

Cities like Vilnius and Kaunas boast lively nightlife, featuring trendy wine and craft beer bars, clubs with DJ performances, and venues offering live music.

Are there vegetarian and vegan options in Lithuanian restaurants?

Vegetarian diets have become quite popular in Lithuania, and although there are few dedicated vegetarian restaurants outside Vilnius and Kaunas, most eateries across the country offer vegetarian options.

What items should I bring for my trip to Lithuania?

If you're visiting during the summer, make sure to pack beachwear and casual outfits, but don’t forget layers for cooler evenings, even during the hottest weeks. Given the variety of activities available, include a range of clothing options and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to dine in upscale restaurants or go clubbing, bring some nicer attire. In winter, a warm parka and snow boots will be essential.