Things to Do in Lithuania

About Lithuania

Lithuania sits between Poland and Latvia with a Baltic coastline, medieval towns, and old-growth forests that most Europeans overlook. The Vilnius Old Town earned UNESCO status for its baroque churches and narrow streets, while the Curonian Spit features massive sand dunes that reshape themselves each season. Trakai Castle, built on an island, draws crowds for good reason—the Gothic brick fortress sits surrounded by lakes that freeze solid in winter. The country won independence through the Singing Revolution in the late 1980s. That spirit stuck. Locals still forage for mushrooms in Aukštaitija National Park and mark summer solstice with traditional celebrations involving flower crowns and bonfires. You'll find wooden crosses throughout the countryside, some carved centuries ago. The food is heavy and filling. Cepelinai—potato dumplings stuffed with meat—appear on most menus, along with dark rye bread and beetroot soup. Cafés in Vilnius serve strong coffee and Lithuanian beer flows cheap. The old quarters smell like pine and occasionally the sea when wind comes from the coast. Time does move slower here. The culture mixes Soviet-era grit with pre-Christian traditions and a push toward modern European identity. You won't find this place in most top-ten lists—which means fewer tourists and lower prices than Prague or Krakow.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Rent a car for maximum flexibility exploring Lithuania's countryside and coastal regions. Public buses connect major cities efficiently, while Vilnius offers bike-sharing and reliable trams. Book train tickets online for scenic routes to Kaunas and Klaipėda at discounted advance prices.

Money: Lithuania uses the Euro. Cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small vendors and rural areas. Tipping 10% at restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory. ATMs are abundant in cities but scarce in remote villages—withdraw cash before countryside trips.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering Lithuanian homes and dress modestly in churches. Avoid loud conversations in public transport. Learning basic Lithuanian phrases like 'Ačiū' (thank you) and 'Labas' (hello) shows respect and opens hearts—locals deeply appreciate the effort.

Food Safety: Tap water is safe throughout Lithuania. Try traditional cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup) at local restaurants. Visit farmers markets for fresh produce. Mushroom picking is popular—join guided tours rather than foraging independently for safety.

When to Visit

Summer (June-August) offers Lithuania's warmest weather with temperatures reaching 20-25°C, perfect for coastal exploration and outdoor festivals, though accommodation prices increase 40-60% above off-season rates. The White Nights Festival in June and Song and Dance Festival (every four years in July) create magical experiences. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide ideal conditions with 15-18°C temperatures, minimal rainfall (40-50mm monthly), and 30% lower prices—perfect for city exploration and countryside drives when forests burst with wildflowers or autumn colors. Winter (December-February) transforms Lithuania into a crystalline wonderland with temperatures dropping to -5°C, creating enchanting Christmas markets in Vilnius and Kaunas, plus 50% accommodation savings. However, expect 8 hours of darkness daily and occasional snow. Kaziukas Fair in early March celebrates spring's arrival with traditional crafts. Shoulder seasons offer the best value for budget travelers, while summer suits families and beach lovers despite crowds. Photography ensoiasts should visit during autumn's golden light, and culture seekers will find winter's cozy indoor venues and festivals particularly rewarding. Each season reveals different facets of Lithuania's complex character, from summer's coastal euphoria to winter's introspective charm.