Home › Itineraries › 7 Days

The Perfect Week in Lithuania

From Medieval Castles to Coastal Dunes

Trip Overview

This week-long journey through Lithuania unveils the Baltic nation's rich tapestry of history, nature, and culture. Starting in vibrant Vilnius, you'll explore baroque architecture and contemporary museums before venturing to the fairy-tale Trakai Island Castle. The itinerary takes you to Kaunas, Lithuania's second city with its medieval heritage, then north to the spiritual Hill of Crosses. The adventure culminates on the stunning Curonian Spit, where towering sand dunes meet the Baltic Sea. This thoughtfully paced itinerary balances cultural immersion with natural beauty, offering authentic Lithuanian experiences from traditional cuisine to unique museums. You'll travel efficiently between destinations while having time to savor each location's distinct character.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
May to September for best weather; December for Christmas markets
Ideal For
First-time visitors, History enthusiasts, Nature lovers, Cultural explorers, Photography enthusiasts

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Vilnius Discovery

Vilnius
Settle into Lithuania's charming capital and explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, discovering baroque architecture and contemporary Lithuanian culture.
Morning
Old Town orientation walk
Begin your Lithuanian adventure exploring Vilnius Old Town's cobblestone streets, admiring the baroque architecture and vibrant street art. Wander through Cathedral Square and climb Gediminas Tower for panoramic city views. The compact historic center is perfect for getting your bearings and soaking in the atmosphere of this Baltic gem.
3 hours $5-10
Lunch
A traditional Lithuanian restaurant in the Old Town serving cepelinai and šaltibarščiai
Traditional Lithuanian Mid-range
Afternoon
Lithuanian National Museum of Art
Immerse yourself in Lithuanian artistic heritage at this comprehensive museum showcasing works from the 16th century to contemporary pieces. The collection offers insight into Lithuania's cultural evolution, featuring paintings, sculptures, and applied arts that reflect the nation's complex history and creative spirit. Plan to spend quality time with the impressive permanent collection.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Užupis district exploration and dinner
Stroll through the bohemian Užupis neighborhood, reading its quirky constitution on the wall, then enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro with local craft beer

Where to Stay Tonight

Vilnius Old Town (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse in the historic center)

Central location allows easy exploration on foot and immediate access to restaurants and nightlife

Purchase a Vilnius City Card for free public transport and museum discounts if planning multiple attractions
Day 1 Budget: $90-130
2

Vilnius Museums & Culture

Vilnius
Dive deeper into Lithuanian culture through unique museums and discover the fascinating confluence of two major rivers.
Morning
Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania
Explore Lithuania's financial history and the journey to the euro at this engaging museum. Interactive exhibits showcase historical currency, economic development, and even let you try lifting a gold bar. The museum provides fascinating context about Lithuania's transition from Soviet rule to EU membership, making economics surprisingly captivating through well-designed displays.
1.5-2 hours Free
Lunch
A contemporary café near the Green Bridge serving modern Lithuanian fusion dishes
Contemporary Lithuanian Mid-range
Afternoon
Confluence of Nemunas and Neris and Lietuvos etnografijos muziejus
Visit the scenic point where Lithuania's two major rivers meet, a site of natural beauty and historical significance. Then explore the Lithuanian Ethnographic Museum to understand traditional rural life, folk customs, and crafts. The museum's collection of traditional costumes, tools, and household items offers authentic insight into pre-industrial Lithuanian culture and regional diversity.
3 hours $6-10
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in game meats and forest mushrooms, followed by a walk along illuminated Old Town streets

Where to Stay Tonight

Vilnius Old Town (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Staying put eliminates check-in/check-out time and maximizes exploration hours

Many Vilnius museums offer free entry on the last Sunday of each month
Day 2 Budget: $75-110
3

Trakai's Island Castle

Trakai
Journey to Lithuania's most iconic castle, dramatically situated on an island, and experience the unique Karaim culture.
Morning
Trakai Island Castle
Explore this breathtaking 14th-century castle rising from Lake Galvė, one of Europe's most photogenic fortresses. Walk through the restored Gothic halls, climb defensive towers, and visit the museum showcasing medieval Lithuanian Grand Duchy history. The castle's island setting creates magical reflections, and the interior exhibits bring to life the era when Trakai served as a capital of the Grand Duchy.
2.5-3 hours $10-15
Arrive early to avoid tour groups, especially in summer months
Lunch
A Karaim restaurant serving traditional kibinai pastries, a local specialty brought by Turkic settlers centuries ago
Karaim traditional Budget
Afternoon
Lake walk and town exploration
Stroll along the scenic lakeside paths surrounding Trakai, offering different perspectives of the castle and opportunities to rent paddle boats or kayaks. Explore the small town's wooden Karaim houses and visit the Karaim kenesa (prayer house). The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make this a relaxing counterpoint to the morning's historical immersion.
2-3 hours $10-20
Evening
Return to Vilnius for dinner
Dine at a restaurant in Vilnius's Gedimino Avenue area, enjoying Lithuanian craft beer and smoked fish dishes

Where to Stay Tonight

Vilnius Old Town (Same accommodation as previous nights)

Trakai is an easy day trip, making a base in Vilnius most practical

Take the bus from Vilnius bus station to Trakai for an authentic local experience and save money versus organized tours
Day 3 Budget: $85-120
4

Journey to Kaunas

Kaunas
Travel to Lithuania's second city, exploring its medieval castle and vibrant interwar architecture along pedestrian boulevards.
Morning
Travel to Kaunas and Kaunas Castle
After a scenic 90-minute journey, explore the ruins of Kaunas Castle, Lithuania's oldest stone castle dating to the 14th century. Though partially ruined, the remaining towers and walls tell stories of battles against Teutonic Knights. The castle grounds at the confluence of two rivers provide a peaceful setting, and the small museum inside explains the fortress's strategic importance in medieval times.
2 hours exploration $5-8
Lunch
A café in Kaunas Old Town serving hearty Lithuanian soups and dark rye bread
Traditional Lithuanian Budget
Afternoon
Laisvės Alėja and interwar architecture
Stroll down Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue), one of Europe's longest pedestrian boulevards, lined with cafés and shops. Admire Kaunas's unique collection of 1920s-30s modernist architecture from when it served as Lithuania's temporary capital. The city's interwar heritage is currently being recognized by UNESCO, making this an architecturally significant walk through a fascinating period of Lithuanian history.
2-3 hours $0-10
Evening
Dinner in Old Town
Enjoy dinner at a traditional cellar restaurant in Kaunas Old Town, sampling potato pancakes and local beer

Where to Stay Tonight

Kaunas city center (Mid-range hotel near Laisvės Alėja)

Central location provides easy access to both Old Town and modern city amenities

Check if any events are happening at Kaunas's revitalized Yard Gallery cultural spaces in former industrial buildings
Day 4 Budget: $80-115
5

Hill of Crosses & Coastal Journey

Šiauliai to Klaipėda
Visit Lithuania's most spiritual site before traveling to the coastal city, gateway to the Curonian Spit.
Morning
Hill of Crosses
Experience this extraordinary pilgrimage site where over 100,000 crosses of all sizes create a powerful spiritual landscape. The site symbolizes Lithuanian resistance and faith, having been repeatedly destroyed by Soviets only to be rebuilt by believers. Walking among the countless crosses, rosaries, and folk art sculptures creates a profound, almost otherworldly atmosphere that's unlike anywhere else in Europe.
1.5-2 hours Free (donations welcome)
Located 12km north of Šiauliai; arrange taxi or tour from Kaunas or Šiauliai
Lunch
A roadside café in Šiauliai serving filling Lithuanian comfort food before continuing the journey
Lithuanian home cooking Budget
Afternoon
Travel to Klaipėda and city exploration
Journey to Lithuania's port city on the Baltic coast. Explore Klaipėda's charming Old Town with its German heritage architecture, half-timbered buildings, and the iconic Ännchen von Tharau fountain. Walk along the Danė River and discover the city's maritime character. The compact center reveals Klaipėda's unique history as the former Prussian city of Memel.
2-3 hours $5-10
Evening
Seafood dinner
Dine at a waterfront restaurant specializing in fresh Baltic fish and locally smoked seafood

Where to Stay Tonight

Klaipėda Old Town (Comfortable hotel near the ferry terminal)

Proximity to the ferry for easy access to the Curonian Spit tomorrow

This is a long travel day; consider hiring a driver or joining a small group tour to maximize time and comfort
Day 5 Budget: $95-135
6

Curonian Spit Wonders

Curonian Spit
Explore the UNESCO-protected sand dune peninsula, visiting dramatic landscapes and the unique Sea Museum.
Morning
Curonian Spit National Park and The Dead Dunes
Take the ferry to this extraordinary 98km sand spit separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. Hike through The Dead Dunes, massive sand formations reaching 60 meters high that create a desert-like landscape. The shifting sands and sparse vegetation create an otherworldly environment. Walk the marked trails offering spectacular views over the lagoon and sea, understanding why this unique ecosystem earned UNESCO protection.
3-4 hours $15-20 including ferry and park entry
Rent bicycles in Nida or Juodkrantė to cover more ground efficiently
Lunch
A traditional fisherman's restaurant in Nida village serving smoked fish and fish soup
Local seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Lithuanian Sea Museum
Visit this fascinating museum housed in a 19th-century fortress on the northern tip of the spit. Explore aquariums showcasing Baltic Sea marine life, a dolphinarium with performances, and exhibits on maritime history and ecology. The penguin enclosure and seal pools are highlights. The museum's unique location and comprehensive displays make it one of Lithuania's most visited attractions, perfect for all ages.
2-3 hours $12-18
Check dolphin show times in advance and arrive 30 minutes early for good seats
Evening
Sunset at the Baltic beach
Watch the sunset from the wide Baltic beaches, then enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in Nida village

Where to Stay Tonight

Nida or return to Klaipėda (Guesthouse in Nida for a resort atmosphere, or return to Klaipėda hotel)

Staying in Nida extends the Curonian Spit experience; Klaipėda offers more dining options

Visit Birutė Hill in Nida for sunset views over the lagoon and to see the monument to this legendary Lithuanian priestess
Day 6 Budget: $100-145
7

Final Discoveries & Departure

Klaipėda to Vilnius
Explore unique museums before returning to Vilnius, with time for last-minute souvenir shopping and farewell dinner.
Morning
Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology
If time permits before returning to Vilnius, visit this unique museum in Molėtai (en route) combining astronomy, ethnography, and ancient Baltic cosmological beliefs. The museum explores how Lithuanian ancestors understood the cosmos through mythology and folk traditions. Interactive exhibits and the observatory offer a distinctive perspective on Lithuania's cultural heritage, blending science with ancient wisdom in ways found nowhere else.
1.5-2 hours $6-10
Check opening hours in advance as they vary seasonally
Lunch
A countryside restaurant along the route back to Vilnius, serving farm-fresh Lithuanian dishes
Farm-to-table Lithuanian Mid-range
Afternoon
Return to Vilnius and souvenir shopping
Arrive back in Vilnius with time to explore craft markets and specialty shops for Lithuanian linen, amber jewelry, and local food products. Browse the stalls near Town Hall Square or visit dedicated craft shops for quality handmade items. This is your opportunity to bring home authentic Lithuanian products, from herbal teas to traditional wooden crafts, while enjoying final strolls through familiar Old Town streets.
2-3 hours $20-100 depending on purchases
Evening
Farewell dinner
Celebrate your Lithuanian journey with a special dinner at an upscale restaurant serving modern interpretations of traditional cuisine, paired with Lithuanian wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Vilnius near airport or Old Town (Hotel convenient for your departure time)

Choose based on flight schedule; airport hotels for early departures, Old Town for afternoon flights

Save room in your luggage for Lithuanian chocolate and honey, which make excellent gifts and are available at the airport
Day 7 Budget: $85-125

Practical Information

Getting Around

Lithuania is compact and well-connected. Rent a car for maximum flexibility, especially for the Hill of Crosses and Curonian Spit. Alternatively, use comfortable intercity buses connecting major cities (Vilnius-Kaunas 90 minutes, Kaunas-Klaipėda 3 hours). Vilnius has good public transport with buses and trolleys. Trakai is easily reached by bus from Vilnius. The Curonian Spit requires a ferry from Klaipėda. Domestic travel is affordable and reliable, with buses being the most economical option.

Book Ahead

Book Curonian Spit accommodation in summer months well ahead. Reserve dolphin shows at the Lithuanian Sea Museum online. Consider booking a guided tour or driver for the Hill of Crosses. Vilnius and Kaunas hotels can usually be booked closer to travel dates except during major events.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changeable Baltic weather, rain jacket, sunscreen, swimwear for summer, insect repellent for Curonian Spit, camera with extra batteries, reusable water bottle, light backpack for day trips

Total Budget

$630-905 for 7 days (excluding flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or guesthouses ($25-40/night), eat at self-service cafeterias and markets, use buses exclusively instead of car rental, pack picnic lunches, choose free attractions like the Hill of Crosses and riverside walks, skip paid museum audio guides, and buy snacks from supermarkets. Cook some meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities. Total budget can reduce to $50-70 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Book boutique hotels in historic buildings ($150-250/night), hire a private driver-guide for the entire week, dine at fine dining restaurants featuring contemporary Lithuanian cuisine with wine pairings, arrange private after-hours tours of major attractions, stay in a luxury spa resort on the Curonian Spit, take helicopter tours over Trakai Castle, and include spa treatments. Budget increases to $300-500 per day.

Family-Friendly

Add the Lithuanian Zoo near Kaunas for a half-day animal encounter, spend more time at the Lithuanian Sea Museum's dolphinarium and penguin exhibits, rent bikes on the Curonian Spit for family cycling, choose family-run guesthouses with larger rooms, include beach time for sandcastle building, visit parks with playgrounds in each city, opt for interactive exhibits at museums, and allow flexible timing for children's energy levels and interests.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Lithuania

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Lithuania

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Lithuania

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Lithuania

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Lithuania

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.