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Located in the Baltic region of Europe, Lithuania is an undiscovered truth that is still waiting to be realised. Places to visit in Lithuania offer the best combination of history, culture, and beautiful scenery. Lithuania is a small but charming country with vibrant cities, stunning beaches, vast national parks, and medieval castles. With rich landscapes and vibrant history, Lithuania proves itself to be a magical place for those looking for a less hectic European vacation. This Baltic gem enables you to appreciate luxurious modern amenities while respecting ancient cultures and traditions.
10 Best Places To Visit In Lithuania
If you are looking for the most beautiful places in Lithuania, here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Lithuania.
1. Vilnius Old Town
Photo: Pofka / Wikimedia Commons
Vilnius Old Town is the historical heart of Lithuania’s capital. The UNESCO World Heritage Organization has recognised this medieval area as a World Heritage Site. Its history stretches back to the 13th century. You can identify a mix of Classical, Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural styles. Steep stone streets and narrow alleys lead to quaint cafes and secret courtyards. Lithuania is known for its cultural diversity, and the colourful buildings showcase it. Due to its authentic atmosphere and historical significance, Vilnius Old Town is one of the best cities to visit in Lithuania.
Major Attractions: Gediminas Tower, Vilnius Cathedral, St. Anne’s Church, Gate of Dawn, Palace of the Grand Dukes
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO)
2. Trakai Island Castle
Photo: Scotch Mist/ Wikimedia Commons
The Trakai Island Castle, located in Lake Galve, hosts it. It is one of the most beautiful places in Lithuania. Built in the 14th century, the castle is made of red bricks and is of Gothic style. It was previously the home of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. A wooden bridge connects the castle to the coast. The surrounding lakeside becomes breathtaking in every season. You can see the elegantly decorated interior rooms. They are now part of a museum with historical exhibitions. It is a beautiful day trip from Vilnius due to the tranquil lakeside setting.
Major Attractions: Castle Museum, Lake Galvė, Karaim Cultural Exhibits, Traditional Karaim cuisine
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
3. Kernavė Archaeological Site
Photo: Pofka / Wikimedia Commons
The “Troy of Lithuania” is the Kernavė archaeological site that is also listed under UNESCO protection. Kernavė has five stunning hill forts that were built during the tumultuous Neolithic era. These hill forts date back to the late Neolithic era and served as the first known capital of Lithuania. The site offers spectacular views of the Neris River valley. Artefacts from different eras can be seen in a modern museum nearby. Every July, a popular medieval festival adorned with crafts and demonstrations that bring history to life is held at the site.
Major Attractions: Five hill forts, Archaeological Museum, Annual Medieval Festival (July)
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to 1 day
Nearest Airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
4. Kaunas Old Town
Photo: Christine und Hagen Graf / Wikimedia Commons
Kaunas is the second largest city in Lithuania and is a focal point in the country’s history. The city has a rich combination of medieval, Renaissance and neo-classical architecture due to its association with Lithuania’s temporary capital during World War I. This unique Kaunas Modernism architectural style is now recognised by UNESCO. The cheerful atmosphere emphasises a relaxed attitude that makes Kaunas one of the best places to visit in Lithuania. Students from nearby universities contribute to the vibrant culture that makes the city attractive, filled with numerous galleries, restaurants and museums.
Major Attractions: Kaunas Castle, Town Hall Square, House of Perkūnas, St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Devil’s Museum
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Kaunas International Airport (KUN)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda.
5. Hill Of Crosses
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
The Hill of Crosses is a wonderful blend of defiance and Lithuanian devotion, making it one of the most prominent symbols of their culture. There are more than a million crosses on this small hill, most of which were placed after the uprising against Russia in 1831. This practice continued during the Soviet era, even though the Soviets bulldozed the place several times. The Lithuanians always restored it. Pope John Paul II visited it in 1993, and it still receives visitors who keep the crosses in memory. The hill is worth seeing and gives the visitors an experience that is unforgettable. Such works create a sense of solemnity as well as hope in the atmosphere.
Attractions: Collection of crosses, religious statues, pilgrim’s chapel
Best Time To Visit: Year-round, though summer offers more comfortable weather
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Šiauliai International Airport (SQQ)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda.
6. Klaipėda
Photo: Mantas Volungevicius / Wikimedia Commons
The only port experience in Lithuania comes from Klaipeda, which appears to be much more modern than other parts of the country. The city displays strong German influence, which can be seen in the style of the buildings. Founded in the 13th century as Memel, Klaipeda has a different feel than other Lithuanian cities. Wood-framed, intricately designed buildings, as well as numerous statues, line the narrow streets of the old centres. In July, the annual Sea Festival takes place, making it one of the best cities to visit in Lithuania.
Major Attractions: Theatre Square, Sculpture Park, Castle Museum, Lithuanian Sea Museum, Old Ferry Terminal
Best Time To Visit: June to August for best weather and summer festivals
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Palanga International Airport (PLQ)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
7. Curonian Spit National Park
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful places in Lithuania is the Curonian Spit National Park, which has the highest sand dunes in Europe, reaching up to 60 meters in height. The peninsula stretches for 98 kilometres between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. The area is mainly covered by pine forests, where much of the sand trying to swallow up the villages accumulates, as well as many small fishing villages near the lagoon. This ecosystem is thus worthy of UNESCO World Heritage status.
Major Attractions: Parnidis Dune, Hill of Witches, Nida village, Thomas Mann’s Summer House, Amber Bay
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Palanga International Airport (PLQ)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
8. Aukštaitija National Park
Photo: Wojsyl / Wikimedia Commons
Aukštatia National Park is home to Lithuania’s oldest national park, which dates back more than a century. It is filled with the stunning beauty of nature with 126 lakes. The dense forest and rolling hills create ideal conditions for hiking. Surrounded by nature, this forest is also full of great kayaking opportunities. You can spot a wide variety of wildlife here. This park is the custodian of Lithuania’s rural culture and traditions. There are authentic villages made of wood throughout the park. The ancient roots of paganism can be found in the form of some ancient sites within the park boundaries.
Major Attractions: Lake Baluošas, Stripeikis Beekeeping Museum, Ethnographic Homesteads, Ancient oak forests, Ladakalnis Hill viewpoint
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
9. Panemunė Castle
Photo: Modris Putns / Wikimedia Commons
Panemunė Castle was built by nobles in the 17th century, and it displays a mix of architecture from the Renaissance and early Baroque eras. It was a luxurious residential castle and defensive fortress and has recently undergone a partial restoration. Visitors are now able to fully explore several halls, and the quiet surrounding park has many walking paths for those seeking peaceful walks. The castle overlooks the Nemunas River valley, offering spectacular views. The site hosts medieval festivals throughout the summer, featuring demonstrations of history-related crafts and knightly tournaments.
Major Attractions: Castle museum, Art gallery, Reconstructed castle interiors, Surrounding park and gardens
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Kaunas International Airport (KUN)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
10. Palanga Beach & Botanical Park
Photo: Scotch Mist / Wikimedia Commons
Palanga welcomes visitors as Lithuania’s premier seaside resort. The stunning Saronic Bay stretches for 18 kilometres parallel to the borders of the Baltic. The beautiful botanical garden is located along the coastline, which houses the Amber Museum, housed in a 19th-century palace. Palanga becomes extremely lively during the summer months, and the main promenade is filled with cafes, bars, and shops. Palanga is known for its lively cultural events that take place during the summer.
Major Attractions: Palanga Beach, Botanical Park, Amber Museum, Palanga Pier, Basanavičius Promenade
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Palanga International Airport (PLQ)
Nearest Seaport: Klaipėda
Lithuania is a treasure trove of travel experiences. There are many historic cities and breathtaking landscapes for you to explore. You will never forget them because of the stunning combination of rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. With an endless array of staggering places to visit in Lithuania, you will have ample opportunities for the much-awaited Baltic adventure. If you want to find the best places to visit in Lithuania, plan your trip with TripXL to get a customised itinerary according to your personal interests and travel style.
Cover Photo: Arvydas Venckus / Unsplash
