Lithuania Travel Information

Lithuania is a country located in Northern Europe, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. From its charming medieval towns to its rolling hills and pristine lakes, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Lithuania. Whether you're interested in exploring the country's rich history, admiring its natural beauty, or immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained during your visit. Here are the top 10 things to do in Lithuania.

1. Visit Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval town centers in Europe. Take a stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire its colorful buildings and historical monuments, and sample some of the local cuisine at one of its many traditional restaurants.

2. Explore the Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a sacred site located near the city of Šiauliai. It's said to have originated as a place for Lithuanians to commemorate loved ones who were lost during struggles against foreign invaders. Today, the hill is covered in tens of thousands of crosses and is considered one of the most unique and important pilgrimage sites in Lithuania.

3. See the Trakai Castle

Trakai Castle is a beautiful 14th-century castle located on an island in Lake Galvė. The castle was once the residence of the Grand Duke of Lithuania and is now one of the country's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can tour the castle, admire its well-preserved architecture, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding lake.

4. Visit the Curonian Spit

The Curonian Spit is a 98-kilometer-long sand dune peninsula that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. It's a popular destination for nature lovers, with its beautiful beaches, pristine forests, and unique sand dunes. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the spit, go hiking in the nearby forests, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the view.

5. Explore the Žemaitija National Park

Žemaitija National Park is a beautiful park located in the Žemaitija region of Lithuania. It's home to rolling hills, pristine lakes, and dense forests, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquility of the park's natural surroundings.

6. Visit the KGB Museum

The KGB Museum is a unique museum located in Vilnius that documents the history of the KGB, the Soviet Union's security agency. The museum provides a fascinating look at the country's recent history and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Cold War or Soviet history.

7. Take a Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens of Vilnius are a beautiful and tranquil park located in the heart of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admire the various plant species, and relax in the peace and quiet of the park's natural surroundings.

8. Visit the Lithuanian Sea Museum

The Lithuanian Sea Museum is a museum located in Klaipėda that documents the history and culture of Lithuania's coastal regions. Visitors can learn about the country's maritime heritage, admire the various exhibits, and enjoy the stunning views of the Baltic Sea.

9. Explore the Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a unique and fascinating site located near Šiauliai in northern Lithuania. It is a hill covered with hundreds of thousands of crosses, rosaries, sculptures, and other religious artifacts, making it a pilgrimage site for many Lithuanian Catholics. The Hill of Crosses has a rich history, with the first crosses believed to have been placed there in the 19th century to commemorate loved ones who were lost in uprisings against the Russian Empire. Today, the Hill of Crosses is a symbol of Lithuanian resistance and a site of national pride.

10. Visit the Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology and Folk Art

The Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology and Folk Art is a unique and fascinating museum located in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The museum explores the traditional Lithuanian way of life, including the country's customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions. Visitors can explore exhibits on traditional Lithuanian crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and wood carving, as well as learn about the country's pagan roots and its relationship with Christianity. The museum also features a large collection of traditional Lithuanian folk costumes and textiles. A visit to the Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology and Folk Art is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Lithuania.

Climate

Lithuania has a temperate climate that is characterized by mild summers and cold winters. The average temperature in summer is around 20°C (68°F), while in winter it drops to around -5°C (23°F). The country receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with the wettest months being June to August.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lithuania depends on what you're looking to do during your trip. If you're interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking or exploring the countryside, the best time to visit is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Winter, on the other hand, is ideal for those who enjoy winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, as well as for those who want to experience the magic of a traditional Lithuanian winter.

For those who want to experience the cultural and historical side of Lithuania, any time of the year is a good time to visit, as the country is home to many fascinating museums, churches, and castles that can be visited year-round. The months of June to September are especially popular among tourists, as this is when many of the country's cultural events, such as music and dance festivals, take place.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Lithuania has a number of modern and well-equipped hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. Many of the country's hotels are located in the capital city of Vilnius, but there are also plenty of options in other cities and towns, such as Kaunas and Klaipeda.

Hostels

Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, and Lithuania has a good selection of clean, comfortable, and affordable hostels. Many of these hostels are located in the city centers and offer a variety of private and shared rooms to choose from.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are another budget-friendly option, offering a more personal and homelike atmosphere. These small, family-run establishments are often located in quiet, rural areas, and offer a unique and authentic experience of Lithuanian life.

Vacation Rentals

For those who want more space and privacy, vacation rentals are a great option. These include apartments, villas, and holiday homes, which can be rented for a few days or for an entire holiday. Vacation rentals offer a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Lithuania, and many come equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as kitchens and living rooms.

Camping

For those who enjoy the great outdoors, camping is another option in Lithuania. The country has a number of well-equipped campgrounds, many of which are located near lakes or forests, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Public Transportation

Lithuania has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and trolleys. This is the best option for those who want to get around on a budget, and for those who want to experience the local way of life.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a good option for those who want more flexibility and independence, and for those who want to explore more remote areas. There are several car rental companies located in major cities and airports, offering a range of vehicles to choose from.

Taxis

Taxis are another option, and they are widely available in major cities and towns. Taxis are a convenient way to get around, but they are also more expensive than other forms of transportation.

Private Transfers

Private transfers are a convenient and comfortable option, especially for those who are traveling in a group. These transfers can be arranged in advance and provide door-to-door service, making it easy and stress-free to get around Lithuania.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.