15 Best Places to Visit in Lithuania: Exploring the Hidden Gems

Katsuto Jyumonji

10 months ago

aerial photography of brown buildings during daytime

1. Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is a vibrant blend of history and modernity. With its charming Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can wander through narrow cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Gediminas Tower, the symbol of the city, offering panoramic views of Vilnius.

2. Trakai

A short drive from Vilnius, Trakai is a picturesque town known for its stunning island castle. The Trakai Castle, situated on Lake Galvė, is a must-visit attraction. Explore the castle’s rich history and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. Take a boat ride on the lake or try traditional Karaim cuisine in one of the local restaurants.

3. Kaunas

Located in the heart of Lithuania, Kaunas is the country’s second-largest city and a cultural hub. Visit the impressive Kaunas Castle, stroll along the charming Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue), and explore the vibrant street art scene. Don’t miss the M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum, showcasing the works of Lithuania’s famous painter and composer.

4. Klaipėda

Situated on the Baltic Sea coast, Klaipėda is a port city with a rich maritime heritage. Explore the charming Old Town, visit the famous sculpture “The Black Ghost,” and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s restaurants and bars. Take a ferry to the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning sand dunes.

5. Nida

Nestled on the Curonian Spit, Nida is a small town renowned for its natural beauty. Explore the picturesque dunes, visit the Thomas Mann Museum, and enjoy the tranquility of the Baltic Sea. Take a walk along the promenade and indulge in delicious local seafood dishes.

6. Šiauliai

Šiauliai is a city known for its unique Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site with thousands of crosses symbolizing faith and resistance. Explore the hill and learn about its fascinating history. Visit the Šiauliai Aušros Museum to delve deeper into the city’s cultural heritage.

7. Druskininkai

Druskininkai is a popular spa town known for its mineral springs and wellness resorts. Relax in the healing waters of the Druskininkai Aquapark, explore the Grūtas Park, which displays sculptures from Lithuania’s Soviet era, and visit the Snow Arena, the largest indoor ski slope in the Baltics.

8. Palanga

Palanga is a coastal resort town famous for its sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. Visit the Palanga Amber Museum, housed in a beautiful palace, and stroll through the enchanting Botanical Park. Don’t miss the lively Basanavičius Street, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

9. Anykščiai

Anykščiai is a small town surrounded by picturesque nature. Visit the impressive Treetop Walking Path, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forests. Explore the beautiful Anykščiai Regional Park, home to the tallest church in Lithuania, the Church of St. Matthias.

10. Kernavė

Kernavė is a historic site known as the first capital of Lithuania. Explore the archaeological site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the country’s ancient history. Visit the Kernavė Museum and take part in the annual Medieval Festival held in the summer.

11. Hill of Witches (Raganų Kalnas)

The Hill of Witches, located in Juodkrantė, is a unique sculpture park filled with wooden sculptures depicting characters from Lithuanian folklore. Take a leisurely walk through the park and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere.

12. Curonian Lagoon

The Curonian Lagoon, shared between Lithuania and Russia, is a serene body of water surrounded by stunning landscapes. Take a boat trip on the lagoon, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

13. Aukštaitija National Park

Aukštaitija National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering pristine lakes, dense forests, and picturesque villages. Explore the park’s hiking trails, go kayaking on the lakes, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.

14. Hill of Three Crosses (Trys Kryžiai)

Located in Vilnius, the Hill of Three Crosses is a symbol of Lithuania’s resilience. Climb the hill to reach the three crosses and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The hill is particularly beautiful at sunset.

15. Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum

The Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum is a unique attraction showcasing traditional Lithuanian village life. Explore the authentic wooden houses, learn about traditional crafts, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Lithuania offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Vilnius, relaxing on the sandy beaches of Palanga, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Aukštaitija National Park, Lithuania is sure to captivate you with its hidden gems.