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Lithuania
Vilnius
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From $91 /day
Lithuania
Lithuania is a Baltic treasure where medieval history meets modern innovation amidst a landscape of deep forests and shimmering lakes. In the capital, Vilnius, you will find one of Europe's largest and most enchanting Baroque old towns, alive with a vibrant cafe culture and hidden courtyards. Beyond the city, the dramatic sand dunes of the Curonian Spit and the haunting beauty of the Hill of Crosses offer experiences found nowhere else on earth. Whether you are exploring the creative hubs of Kaunas or the tranquil national parks, the country offers a sense of untouched authenticity. It is a destination that rewards the curious with its rich folklore, hearty cuisine, and a peaceful, slow-paced atmosphere.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
1 city
3 guides
$91 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Vilnius
Languages
Lithuanian
Currency
Euro (EUR)
1 € ≈ 1.18 $
Plug Type
Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+370
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 in summer)
Emergency
112 (Police/Fire/Ambulance)
Why Visit Lithuania
Baroque Splendor in Vilnius
Wander through winding cobblestone streets and discover a skyline dominated by church spires and the hilltop Gediminas Castle Tower. The capital's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and bohemian Uzupis district.
Unreal Coastal Landscapes
Experience the Curonian Spit, a narrow strip of massive sand dunes and pine forests where the Baltic Sea meets the lagoon. This protected landscape offers serene beaches and charming fishing villages like Nida.
Hearty and Unique Flavors
Sample a cuisine built on tradition, from the iconic pink beet soup to savory potato dumplings that provide a true taste of Baltic heritage. The local food is comforting, seasonal, and exceptionally filling.
A Creative Modernist Hub
The city of Kaunas serves as a vibrant center for art and history, featuring unique interwar architecture and a thriving contemporary cultural scene. It offers a more industrial but equally artistic contrast to the capital.
Peaceful Natural Escapes
With over 6,000 lakes and five national parks, the country is a haven for hikers, kayakers, and those seeking silence. The deep green forests are perfect for foraging berries and mushrooms in the late summer.
Exceptional Value for Travelers
Enjoy a high standard of dining, accommodation, and cultural experiences for an average daily budget of just $91 / €77. It remains one of the most affordable destinations in the European Union without sacrificing quality.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Lithuania
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Vilnius & Eastern Lithuania
This region is home to the capital and the fairytale island castle of Trakai, which sits beautifully on Lake Galve. It blends urban sophistication with serene lake districts and rich historical sites.
The Lithuanian Seaside
This coastal stretch includes the port city of Klaipėda, the lively resort of Palanga, and the protected dunes of the Curonian Spit. It is the go-to destination for beach lovers and those seeking fresh sea air.
Kaunas & Central Lithuania
Situated at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, this region is famous for its interwar modernism and the bustling Laisvės Alėja pedestrian street. It is the cultural heart of the nation.
Aukštaitija National Park
Located in the northeast, this is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, featuring a labyrinth of interconnected lakes. You will find ancient wooden churches and traditional villages that seem frozen in time.
Žemaitija
Also known as Samogitia, this western highland region is rich in distinct folklore and traditions. It is home to the famous Hill of Crosses and the stunning, deep waters of Plateliai Lake.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mildest and the days are exceptionally long. Summer offers the best conditions for exploring the Baltic coastline and outdoor festivals.
Peak Season
Jun, Jul, Aug
Summer brings warm temperatures averaging 20–25°C (68–77°F) and vibrant outdoor life. This is the busiest period for coastal resorts like Nida and Palanga, with the highest accommodation prices.
Shoulder Season
May, Sep
May and September offer pleasant weather for city sightseeing with fewer crowds. Nature is particularly beautiful during the spring bloom or the golden autumn foliage.
Off-Peak
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Winters are cold and dark, with temperatures often dropping to -5°C or lower. While snowy landscapes and Christmas markets provide a magical atmosphere in December, many rural attractions may have limited hours.
Getting Around
Lithuania has a compact and efficient transport network that makes traveling between major hubs simple. There is no meaningful scheduled domestic flight network; most trips are by rail or bus, which are reliable and affordable.
Bus
The most extensive way to travel, with coaches connecting almost every town. Major operators like Kautra and TOKS offer modern vehicles with Wi-Fi on main routes between Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda.
Train
Operated by LTG Link, trains are a comfortable option for traveling between major cities. The Vilnius–Kaunas route is frequent and takes approximately 1h08–1h27 depending on service, with tickets from ~$5.89+ / €5+ (varies by time/train).
Metro
There is no metro or tram system in any Lithuanian city; public transport in Vilnius consists of an extensive network of buses and trolleybuses.
Car
Car rentals are widely available and roads are generally well-maintained. Bolt is the primary ride-hailing app and is significantly more affordable and reliable than hailing traditional street taxis.
Food & Drink
Lithuanian food culture is centered around hearty ingredients like potatoes, rye bread, and sour cream, reflecting its agrarian roots. Meals are designed to be substantial and comforting, often accompanied by locally brewed beer or traditional fermented drinks.
Must Try
Cepelinai
Large, zeppelin-shaped potato dumplings stuffed with meat or curd and served with a generous dollop of sour cream and bacon bits.
Šaltibarščiai
A refreshing cold beet soup known for its vibrant pink color, made with kefir, cucumbers, and dill, typically served with hot boiled potatoes.
Kugelis
A savory, baked potato pudding that is often enriched with eggs, onions, and bacon, serving as a staple comfort food across the country.
Balandėliai
Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, then simmered in a light tomato or sour cream sauce.
Juoda Duona
Traditional dark rye bread that is dense, fragrant, and often flavored with caraway seeds, forming an essential part of every meal.
Šakotis
A unique tree cake with distinctive spikes, baked on a rotating spit over an open fire and frequently served at weddings and celebrations.
Gira
A traditional fermented drink made from rye bread, offering a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that is perfect for quenching thirst in summer.
Money & Costs
Lithuania offers excellent value for money compared to Western Europe. A typical traveler can expect to spend ~$91 / €77/day, covering mid-range accommodation, meals, and local transport.
Tipping
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 10% of the total bill is the standard for good service in restaurants.
Cards
Card acceptance is very high in cities, where almost all shops, cafes, and taxis accept contactless payments.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in all towns. Using bank-run ATMs like Swedbank or SEB is recommended to avoid unnecessary transaction fees.
Culture & Etiquette
Lithuanians are generally reserved but very polite and hospitable once you get to know them. Respecting local traditions, language, and the country's difficult history is the key to making a good impression.
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Remove your shoes when entering someone's home, as most hosts will provide slippers for you to wear to keep the interior clean.
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Bring an odd number of flowers if you are invited to dinner, as even numbers are strictly reserved for funerals and mourning.
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Aim to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants for good service, though it is not legally required or included in the bill.
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Use a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting locals, as this is a sign of respect and sincerity.
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Do not whistle while you are indoors, as local superstition suggests this invites bad spirits or bad luck into the household.
✕
Do not sit at the corner of a table if you are unmarried, as a popular folk belief says you will not get married for seven years.
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Avoid comparing Lithuania to its former Soviet occupiers or assuming people speak Russian; it is much better to use English or a few words of Lithuanian.
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Do not leave empty alcohol bottles on the table after finishing them, as it is considered bad luck; place them on the floor instead.
Safety & Health
Lithuania is a very safe destination with a low violent crime rate. Standard precautions should be taken against petty theft in crowded areas of Vilnius and on public transport.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations are recommended. Travelers planning significant time in forests or rural areas should consider a Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Overcharging in 'gentlemen's clubs' where tourists are lured by locals and presented with exorbitant bills.
- ⚠ Unregulated street taxis charging double or triple the standard rate; always use a ride-hailing app like Bolt.
- ⚠ ATM skimming devices in poorly lit or non-bank locations.
- ⚠ Friendly strangers on intercity trains attempting to distract travelers to steal luggage or wallets.
Healthcare standards are high in private clinics, though public hospitals may have longer wait times. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Language
Lithuanian is the sole official language. English is widely and fluently spoken by the younger generation and in the tourism industry, though Russian and Polish are also common among older residents.
English Spoken: Widely spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Labas | LAH-bahs |
| Thank you | Ačiū | AH-choo |
| Please | Prašom | PRAH-shohm |
| Yes | Taip | TAYP |
| No | Ne | NAY |
| Excuse me | Atsiprašau | ah-tsih-prah-SHOU |
| How much? | Kiek kainuoja? | KYEK kai-NWAH-yah? |
| Where is the toilet? | Kur yra tualetas? | koor ee-RAH twah-LEH-tahs? |
Visa & Entry
Lithuania is part of the Schengen Area. ETIAS is scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2026 (exact date to be confirmed); it is not required until it starts operating.
Max Stay
90 days in 180-day period
Passport Validity
Issued within last 10 years and valid 3+ months beyond planned Schengen departure
Visa-free for
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most EU/EEA citizens
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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