Looking for a Baltic gem full of medieval charm, cultural vibrance, and natural beauty? I say—head to Lithuania! Tucked between Poland, Latvia, and Belarus, Lithuania completely surprised me with its warm hospitality, Gothic spires, sandy shores, and deep-rooted traditions. Whether I was wandering the cobbled streets of Vilnius Old Town, snapping photos of lake castles, or digging my toes into Baltic beach sand, Lithuania offered history and heart at every turn.
Lithuania Highlights:
- Love history? I strolled through Vilnius Old Town, and it’s honestly one of the most beautiful historic centers I’ve ever seen—Baroque churches, quirky courtyards, and a magical, timeless feel.
- Can’t resist a castle? You’ll love Trakai Island Castle. It looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale, perched on a lake just a short ride from Vilnius. I rented a boat and paddled around—it was unforgettable!
- Craving fresh air? Head to the Curonian Spit. I explored the dunes, wandered pine forests, and collected bits of amber on the beach. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and so worth the trip.
- Feeling artsy? I visited the Užupis Republic—a quirky, self-declared “micronation” inside Vilnius with its own constitution and street art around every corner. You’ll feel like you stumbled into a living poem.
- Want to dive into culture? If you can time your visit during a folk festival or traditional dance performance, do it. The music, costumes, and joy are absolutely infectious.
Best Time to Visit Lithuania
I found the best time to explore Lithuania is between May and September. You get mild, comfortable weather—perfect for walking, beach days, and long golden evenings. Summer buzzes with festivals, while September brings autumn colors and quieter streets (plus cozy cafes!).
How to Get to Lithuania
- By Air: I flew into Vilnius International Airport (VNO), but you can also land in Kaunas (KUN) or Palanga (PLQ) if you're exploring the coast or central regions. There are plenty of budget-friendly flights from major European cities.
- By Train: There are limited rail options from places like Poland and Latvia—it’s scenic but a bit slow. Good if you’re not in a rush.
- By Bus: I found Lux Express and FlixBus really reliable and super affordable for getting in from Riga, Warsaw, or Tallinn.
Where to Stay in Lithuania
- Traveling with kids? I stayed at Hotel Congress Avenue in Vilnius—great family-sized rooms and an easy walk to all the main sights in Old Town.
- Planning a romantic trip? Romantic Boutique Hotel Apia is perfect—charming, quiet, and tucked into the historic heart of Vilnius with all the old-world feels.
- Want a nature escape? I loved Vila Ula in Druskininkai. Lakeside cabins, spa access, and forest views—total reset button.
Best Things to Do in Lithuania
Bernardinai Garden - Stroll through blooming landscapes and relax in this romantic green space.
Botanical Garden of Vilnius University - Explore exotic plants and enjoy a quiet spring walk.
Church Heritage Museum - Discover sacred art and admire unusual religious treasures.
Europos Parkas - Walk along forest trails and see exciting modern sculptures.
Gate of Dawn - Visit this sacred site and reflect during a peaceful weekend stop.
Gediminas' Tower - Climb to panoramic views and explore historical sights in Vilnius.
Hill of Crosses - Witness an unusual pilgrimage site filled with thousands of crosses.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)