Lithuania

A quiet kind of beauty — forests, lakes, cozy towns, and a slower pace of life that invites you to breathe and stay a little longer.

Lithuania might not be the first place people think of when planning a European trip — and honestly, that’s part of its charm. It surprises you gently. From the charming old town of Vilnius to misty lakes, wild coastlines, and cozy cafés tucked into wooden houses, this is a place that welcomes you slowly — and stays with you long after you leave.

It’s where the air smells like pine after rain, where life moves slower, and where the simplest moments somehow feel the most meaningful. I was born here — and I’m so excited to show you the places, stories, and quiet corners I’ll always come back to.

 

 

About Lithuania

Here’s what you should know about Lithuania — essential info to make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.

  • Country: Lithuania
  • Region: Northern Europe / Baltic States
  • Capital: Vilnius
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Lithuanian (English is widely spoken, especially in cities)
  • Time Zone: GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 in summer (EEST)
  • Plug Type: Type C & F (European 230V)
  • Payment: Cards are widely accepted
  • Transportation: Best explored by car, but it’s easy to get around by public transport
  • Safety: Very safe for travelers, including solo female travelers
  • Emergency Number: 112 (all emergencies)
  • Internet: Fast and reliable 4G/5G; Wi-Fi available in most places
  • Digital Nomad Friendly: Yes — especially in Vilnius and Kaunas, with great cafés and co-working spots
  • Best for: Solo travelers, slow travelers, couples, nature lovers, creative souls
  • Tipping: Not required, but 5–10% is common and appreciated

 

Lithuania is welcoming, walkable, and full of peaceful places to slow down and recharge. Whether you’re here to explore charming old towns, dive into Baltic nature, or just enjoy slow mornings with good coffee — there’s something special waiting for you.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Lithuania

Lithuania has four distinct seasons — each offering its own charm, colors, and rhythm. Whether you’re into the warm summer days by the lakes, cozy café moments in autumn, or snowy city strolls in winter, there’s no wrong time to visit — just different experiences.

 

Best Time to Visit
  • June to August – Summer is the most popular time to visit. The days are long (up to 17 hours of daylight!), the weather is warm, and locals are out enjoying nature. Expect lively city squares, festivals, and more tourists — especially in Vilnius and coastal areas.
  • May to mid-June and September are perfect if you prefer fewer crowds, cheaper flight prices, and mild weather. Spring brings blooming nature and a soft energy as everything starts waking up. September feels slower, golden, and peaceful — ideal for a more relaxed experience.
Off-Season
  • October to April – Autumn is beautiful but chilly, with misty mornings and golden trees. Winter can be magical too, especially in December when festive lights bring the old towns to life. Just be ready for cold temperatures, shorter days, and a quieter atmosphere.

 

If you’re visiting between seasons, pack layers — Lithuanian weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not unusual to get a mix of sunshine, rain, and a cool breeze in one day. But that’s part of the charm — it keeps you grounded, present, and always looking up.

 

 

How to Get to Lithuania

Lithuania is well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it easy to reach whether you’re planning a city break, a road trip, or a longer Baltic adventure.

By Air
  • Vilnius International Airport (VNO) – the largest and most popular, with regular direct flights from major cities across Europe including London, Paris, Berlin, Oslo, and Warsaw.
  • Kaunas Airport (KUN) – a hub for low-cost airlines like Ryanair, often offering affordable connections from across Europe.
  • Palanga Airport (PLQ) – located on the Baltic coast, ideal if you’re heading to the seaside or western Lithuania.
    Flights from other European countries are usually 1.5–3 hours.
By Land

Lithuania shares borders with Latvia, Poland, and Belarus, and is easily accessible by car, bus, or train from neighboring countries.

  • By Bus – International bus routes (like FlixBus, Ecolines, or Lux Express) offer budget-friendly travel between Lithuania and major European cities.
  • By Train – Rail connections exist from Poland and Latvia, though they’re more limited and slower than buses.
By Sea

If you’re arriving from Sweden or Germany, you can also take a ferry to the port city of Klaipėda — a scenic and slower way to enter the country, especially with a car.

 

 

Getting Around Lithuania

Lithuania is easy to explore. Renting a car gives you the most freedom — especially if you want to visit smaller towns, nature spots, or the coast. Roads are in good condition, and driving is smooth and safe.

Public transport is reliable between cities. Buses and trains connect Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, and beyond. In cities, you can walk, take a bus, or use apps like Bolt or Uber for quick rides or scooter rentals.

 

 

Lithuania Travel Costs

Lithuania is affordable and offers great value — from cozy cafés to boutique stays.

The country uses the Euro (€). Cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but it’s smart to carry some cash in smaller towns or markets.

Meals can be as little as €8–15 per person, while boutique hotels range from €70–120/night. You’ll find plenty of experiences — museums, walks, nature spots — that are free or low-cost. It’s easy to enjoy more for less.

 

 

Top Things to Do in Lithuania

Lithuania is small but full of character — a place where history, nature, and modern culture blend in quiet, beautiful ways.

 

Highlights to Explore:
  • Walk through the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Vilnius
  • Watch a dreamy sunset at Užutrakis Manor
  • Visit Trakai Castle floating in the middle of the lake
  • Explore the dunes and forests of the Curonian Spit
  • Wander the artistic streets of Užupis — Lithuania’s bohemian republic
  • Discover the Hill of Crosses, one of the most unique sites in Europe
  • Relax by one of the country’s many peaceful lakes
  • Try a traditional kibinas at Senoji Kibininė in Trakai

Some of the best moments in Lithuania are the quiet ones — walking through foggy forests, stumbling upon a view you didn’t expect, or simply feeling the slow, grounding rhythm of the place.

 

 

Best Areas to Stay in Lithuania

Where you stay in Lithuania can really shape the kind of experience you’ll have — whether you’re after city charm, peaceful nature, or a quiet local vibe. Everything is close by, so no matter where you base yourself, exploring more is always within reach.

  • For History & Culture – Vilnius Old Town. Full of cobbled streets, cozy cafés, and historical landmarks. It’s the heart of the capital and a perfect base if you want to walk everywhere and soak in the atmosphere.
  • For a Local, Artsy Feel – Užupis (Vilnius). The city’s creative soul. Think art galleries, indie cafés, riverside walks, and a slower pace just steps away from the Old Town.
  • For Nature & Lakeside Calm – Trakai. A small town surrounded by lakes and forests, with the famous island castle at its center. Perfect for a peaceful escape that’s still close to Vilnius.
  • For Coastal Vibes – Nida or Juodkrantė (Curonian Spit). Dreamy wooden houses, sandy dunes, and forest trails. This is where you come to slow down completely and breathe by the sea.
  • For a City with a Creative Edge – Kaunas. Lithuania’s second-largest city, full of street art, architecture, and energy. Great for a less-touristy but culturally rich experience.

 

What to Eat & Drink in Lithuania

Lithuanian food is really filling and full of flavor. Most dishes are made to keep you warm and satisfied — especially during the colder months. And honestly, the way it’s presented is often so beautiful, even in the simplest places. Just a heads-up though: the food here is heavy! You might feel full halfway through your plate, so come with an empty stomach — and leave room to try a few different dishes.

 

Traditional Dishes to Try:
  • Cepelinai – Our national dish. Huge potato “dumplings” filled with meat or curd, served with sour cream and bacon bits.
  • Šaltibarščiai – Bright pink cold beetroot soup. Always served with a side of hot potatoes — a summertime must.
  • Kibinai – Savory pastries from the Karaim community in Trakai. Flaky, warm, and best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
  • Balandėliai – Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice, slow-cooked in tomato sauce (one of the best dishes).
  • Karka – Slow-roasted pork knuckle, often served with potatoes and fermented cabbage. A proper Sunday meal.
  • Raugintų kopūstų sriuba – Sauerkraut soup with smoked meats.
  • Bulviniai blynai – Crispy potato pancakes. Golden and served with sour cream or mushroom sauce.
  • Varškėčiai – Soft cottage cheese pancakes, lightly sweet and usually served with sour cream or berry jam.
  • Varškės apkepas – Baked cottage cheese pudding. Something between cake and breakfast.
  • Kepta duona – Fried rye bread with garlic and cheese sauce — the best beer snack.

 

Sweet Treats:
  • Tinginys – A “lazy” no-bake chocolate dessert made with crushed biscuits.
  • Šakotis – A traditional tree cake, usually served at weddings and holidays.
  • Obuolių pyragas – Warm apple cake, the kind every Lithuanian grandma bakes. Best with a scoop of ice cream!
  • Medaus pyragas (Medutis) – the most traditional, old style honey cake, perfect with a cup of coffee.

 

Local Drinks:
  • Gira – A fermented bread drink, non-alcoholic and slightly sweet.
  • Midus – Traditional Lithuanian mead made from fermented honey — smooth, sweet, and warming.
  • Lithuanian beer – Local breweries offer everything from crisp lagers to rich dark ales. Lithuania is known for a great beer!
  • Berry wines – You’ll find wines made from blackcurrants, raspberries, or sea buckthorn — fruity and unique.

 

Helpful Travel Notes

Before you go, here are a few things to keep in mind that will make your trip to Lithuania smoother and more enjoyable.

 

Internet & Connectivity

Internet in Lithuania is fast and super reliable — one of the best in Europe. You’ll find free Wi-Fi in most accommodations, cafés, and public spaces. If you’re staying longer or working remotely, you can easily grab a local SIM or eSIM from providers like Telia, Bite, or Tele2 — all offer great coverage and affordable data plans.

 

Language

The official language is Lithuanian. English is commonly spoken in cities, especially among younger people and in tourist spots, but in smaller towns, it’s helpful (and appreciated) to know a few local words.

 

A few words to know:
  • Labas – Hello (informal)
  • Laba diena – Good afternoon
  • Ačiū – Thank you
  • Prašau – Please / You’re welcome
  • Kiek kainuoja? – How much does it cost?
  • Kur yra…? – Where is…?
  • Atsiprašau – Excuse me / Sorry
  • Aš nekalbu lietuviškai – I don’t speak Lithuanian
  • Ar kalbate angliškai? – Do you speak English?

 

Local Etiquette

Lithuanians are polite and respectful, but they really value personal space — so don’t be surprised if people seem a little reserved at first. A handshake is common for first-time meetings or in formal situations, but don’t expect hugs or close contact right away. Some people might even feel uncomfortable if you stand too close or speak too loudly. It’s not that people are cold — they’re just a bit more private until they get to know you. Give it time, respect the space, and you’ll find that locals are kind, helpful, and genuinely welcoming once the ice is broken.

 

Driving & Parking Tips

Driving is on the right, and roads are generally in great condition. Parking is mostly paid — even in smaller towns. Paid zones are usually marked with signs or colored lines on the street. In cities like Vilnius or Kaunas, you can use apps like UniPark or m.Parking to pay for street parking. Free parking does exist, but it’s less common, especially in central areas. Always check the signs, and avoid leaving your car in unmarked spots to prevent tickets.

 

Drinking Water

Tap water in Lithuania is very clean and safe to drink — some of the best quality in Europe. You’ll find public refill stations around cities like Vilnius and Kaunas, so bringing a reusable bottle is a great idea. Bottled water is available everywhere too, but honestly, you can refill straight from the tap without worry.

 

Health & Medical Info

For emergencies, dial 112 — it connects you to all emergency services.
If you’re an EU citizen, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) works here. For non-EU visitors, travel insurance is recommended to cover medical care.

 

Safety & Travel Tips

Lithuania is a very safe country for travelers — whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or as a couple. But here are a few simple tips to help your trip go smoothly:

  • Keep an eye on your things in busier areas like central Vilnius, train stations, or tourist events. Pickpocketing isn’t common, but it can happen — especially in summer or festivals.
  • When driving, watch out for wild animals in forested areas — especially early in the morning or at night, as they can suddenly cross the road.
  • Winters can be icy, so if you’re visiting between November and March, dress warm and wear proper footwear — sidewalks can get slippery.
  • Public transport is safe and reliable, but not always available late at night. Use Bolt for taxis — it’s easy and affordable.

 

Do’s and Don’ts

✔️ Try local dishes — even if they sound unusual (you might be surprised!)
✔️ Learn a few Lithuanian words — it shows respect and opens up warmer conversations
✔️ Visit smaller towns and nature parks — they hold a lot of charm

✖️ Don’t assume people are rude if they don’t smile right away — it’s just the culture
✖️ Don’t cross roads on red, even if no cars are coming — locals follow the rules
✖️ Don’t talk loudly in public spaces — keep it respectful

I hope this guide helps you see a more personal side of Lithuania — and maybe even inspires you to explore it your own way. If you’re looking for more tips, stories, or ideas for your trip, you’ll find them on the blog. And if you ever have a question, feel free to reach out!