8 Best Things To Do In Lithuania

1. Visit the citadel in Kaunas

Walking around, it may feel surprising to find out that Kaunas is the second largest town in Lithuania, as it seems small, cute and easy to get around. The main highlight of Kaunas is its citadel or castle, which is located in the old city center. This Gothic style building, built in the 14th century, gives the town a particular personality. If you’ve already seen many European castles, you might not be impressed. Yet Kaunas’ castle speaks a lot about Lithuania’s history and is worth a visit.

Kaunas Citadel

Address: Pilies g. 17, Kaunas 44275, Lithuania

Website: Kaunas Citadel (in Lithuanian)

2. Take a long walk on the beach in Palanga

Palanga is a resort town that has a long beach, at about 18 km (11 miles) long, known as Palanga Beach. Even if the water might be too cold to go for a swim, a long walk next to the shore is very relaxing. With so many forests around, it’s easy to forget that Lithuania is placed on the shore of the Baltic Sea. During high season, it can get quite busy - many Lithuanians like to spend their holidays in the sun. There are also a few bars and nice places to go out, in case you want to experience the night life, in Lithuania.

Palanga Beach

Address: Along the coast, in Palanga

3. Walk around the old town in Vilnius

Vilnius is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason. There are many impressive buildings in the old city center, some of which will explain you parts of Lithuanian history. Some places worth mentioning are Cathedral Square, with its imposing Vilnius Cathedral, the Castle Hill area and the Palace of the Grand Dukes. Walking in these areas will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. The architecture is fascinating and it’s amazing how well it was preserved, over the years.

Vilnius Old Town

Address: Vilnius, Lithuania

4. Bike around the Curonian Spit

Klaipeda is a port town, which is mostly famous because it’s the town that takes you to the curious place called Curonian Spit - a peninsula split between two countries: Lithuania and Russia. The biggest town on the peninsula is called Neringa. The peninsula has a few points of interest and even more good stories. To get here, you’ll have to take a ferry from Klaipeda. The trip can be made by car, but biking will allow you a better opportunity to appreciate the green forest.

Curonian Spit

Address: Neringa, Klaipeda, Lithuania

Website: Curonian Spit

5. Visit Trakai Island Castle

Located on an island in the middle of Lake Galve, Trakai Island Castle provides visitors not only with a wonderful view but also with a lot of information related to Lithuanian culture and history. The setting and surroundings make the place very special. It is the perfect place for walking and learning history.

Trakai Island Castle

Address: Trakai 21142, Lithuania

Website: Trakai Island Castle (in Lithuanian)

6. Nemunas Delta

Nemunas is the largest river in Lithuania. It spills into the Curonian lagoon, forming a wetland delta, with breathtaking views. It’s especially impressive if you’re a bird enthusiast, as it’s a great spot for bird watching. If you get there in spring, the view is even more beautiful, as the area will be flooded. There aren’t so many places in the world where you can see such landscape, so make sure not to miss it.

Nemunas Delta

Address: Silute, Lithuania

Website: Nemunas Delta (in Lithuanian)

7. Hill of crosses

Placed about 12 km (7.5 miles) away from Šiauliai city, the view that this man-made landscape creates is impressive. Many people come here on pilgrimage trips. There are often services held on the hill of crosses, but no matter if you’re a Christian or not, the multitude of crosses on each square meter provides a unique view. If you’re driving yourself, it’s not difficult to find.

Hill of Crosses

Address: Jurgaičių, Meškuičių, Šiauliai 81439, Lithuania

Website: Hill of Crosses

8. Grutas Park

This is the place to visit if you’re passionate about the history of the Soviet Union or just history, in general. In Grutas Park you can find many sculptures and monuments that date back to the Soviet era. The monuments displayed here were gathered from all over the country after Lithuania got its independence. This stop is particularly good for families traveling with kids, as there are also playgrounds available. You can easily spend around 2-3 hours here.

Grutas Park

Address: Grūto k., Druskininkų r. 66441, Lithuania

Website: Grutas Park (in Lithuanian)

Experience wonderful landscapes, discover castles and learn about the history of Lithuania

The personality of this country is very interesting, especially considering that it got its independence relatively recently, in comparison to other countries. There are many things to do and learn while in Lithuania and the friendliness of local people is unequaled. You will for sure fall in love very quickly with this green country.

One visit won’t be enough to understand Lithuanian culture and the struggles of young Lithuanians. The historic links with Russia gave Lithuania a different direction about which you can find out more, during your visit. And if you have more time, do venture into Latvia as well. It will be a good opportunity to compare the two neighboring countries.