Relax In Lithuania's Favorite Spa Town: Druskininkai

What to see

Druskininkai is composed of one main walking street, Vilniaus al., that begins at the beautiful, red brick St. Mary’s Church. Along Vilniaus al., you’ll see numerous works of art dotted along the street. Many of them are recreations of paintings by famous Lithuanian artist M. K. Ciurlionis. Lining the street are also several shops, restaurants, and hotels. At the end of Vilniaus al., you’ll run directly into the Druskininkai Aqua Park and Spa, which is popular both in the winter and summer. Additionally, you’ll see a cable car that can take you on a short ride that provides views of the nearby forests.

The stunning Russian Orthodox Church (Joy of All Who Sorrow Church) is also a sight not to be missed when in Druskininkai. This church is eye-catching as it is the brightest color of blue, making it stand out from the surrounding grey and brown buildings.

In addition to enjoying the Druskininkai Aqua Park and Spa as well as spa treatments at your accommodation, the Vijuneles Park is a wonderful way to unwind in nature. The Druskonis and Vijuneles Tvenkinys Lakes are located in this park, providing beautiful scenery in which to reflect.

Where to eat

Toli Toli is a hidden food gem in downtown Druskininkai on Vilniaus al. 8. Note that Toli Toli is located slightly off of Vilniaus al., around the corner of a building. The food at Toli Toli is a unique and flavorful interpretation of European comfort food. The menu seems to vary, but their beetroot soup made with coconut is really tasty, as is their hummus platter. They also serve coffee prepared from Crooked Nose and Coffee Stories’ coffee beans, which are locally roasted in Vilnius.

City Coffee provides a caffeinated, cool haven right beside St. Mary’s Church, at V. Kudrikos g. 37. The coffee at City Coffee is perfectly prepared and they serve cake made from Belgian chocolate.

Further afield

Located about a 15 minute drive from downtown Druskininkai, you’ll find Grutas Parkas (Soviet Park), which is a park filled with statues from the Soviet times. These statues have been collected from all over Lithuania, and instead of being discarded, have been moved to this park. Along with the statues are short descriptions and photographs of the statue in its former location. The statues are dotted throughout a pine forest, and watchtowers play eerie Soviet music in the background.

Note that there is a small zoo on the grounds but the animals do not appear to be well cared for. I preferred to skip over this whole area.

Prices vary depending on the season, but adult prices range from 6 EUR to 7.50 EUR (6.42 USD to 8 USD). Audio guides are also available and can be rented for 13.30 EUR (14.44 USD).