Lithuania, as the southernmost Baltic state, has a unique atmosphere and history. I’ll present 10 locations from the most beautiful sights!
It is bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the southeast, Poland to the south, and Russia’s Kaliningrad region to the southwest.
Table of Contents
Best places in Lithuania
Vilnius
Lithuania’s capital is the country’s largest and culturally richest city.
Located at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers, the city’s history dates back to the Middle Ages. It was first mentioned in a document from 1323, in which Grand Duke Gediminas declared the city as Lithuania’s capital. Since then, the city has become the center of Lithuanian culture, science, and religion.
Its most famous part is the Old Town, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. The Old Town is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval city districts, showcasing a unique blend of Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architectural styles.
The city’s symbol is the Gediminas Tower, which stands on top of a hill and offers a stunning panorama of Vilnius. The Uzupis district must be highlighted. This artistic neighborhood operates as its own „republic” with its own constitution and holidays.
Vilnius attractions, museums, weather
Trakai Castle
One of Lithuania’s most famous and spectacular historical sites is located 28 kilometers from Vilnius, rising from the waters of Lake Galvė on a small island.
Built in the second half of the 14th century during the time of Lithuania’s Grand Dukes, especially Kęstutis and his son Vytautas. Trakai was an important political and military center in the Middle Ages, one of the most important defensive bastions of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. It lost its political significance in the 15th century and gradually fell into ruins over the centuries. Today, however, it has been beautifully restored.
The castle is a unique example of Gothic brick architecture. It consists of a main courtyard, defensive walls, bastions, and an inner castle. Inside is the Grand Ducal Palace, which previously served as the residence of Lithuanian grand dukes.
The Curonian Spit
This is an impressive 98 km long sandy peninsula that stretches between Lithuania and Russia (Kaliningrad region).
This special geographical formation separates the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. Its most spectacular elements are the sand dunes, which are among the world’s largest moving sand dunes. The dunes constantly change due to erosion and wind. Because of this, it’s also known as the „Baltic Sahara”.
There are several beaches and beautiful settlements among the attractions. Among the latter, Nida stands out. Thomas Mann, the famous German writer, lived and worked here for a while. Today his house can be visited as a museum.
Kaunas
Lithuania’s second-largest city is an important cultural center. In 2022, it won the title of European Capital of Culture.
The 14th-century Gothic fortress, Kaunas Castle, is among the country’s oldest castles. The museum in the castle showcases the city’s history. The Old Town is full of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and baroque churches.
It’s famous for its vibrant cultural life. The city is home to numerous theaters, museums, and art galleries. One of the most unique is the Devil’s Museum, which displays over 3,000 sculptures and artworks depicting devils from around the world.
Aukštaitija National Park
Located in northeastern Lithuania, it is the country’s oldest national park.
One of its main attractions is its natural diversity. There are 126 lakes in the area, some of which are connected by underground waterways. The largest lake is Lake Dringis, famous for its picturesque islands. Forests cover 70% of the area, mainly pine forests that are over 200 years old.
One of the most visited viewpoints is Ladakalnis Hill, from where six lakes can be admired at once. Palūšė village is the gateway to the national park, where the famous Palūšė wooden church is located. Built in the 18th century, the church is a unique wooden architectural monument.
Druskininkai
The city is located near the Belarusian and Polish border and is one of Lithuania’s most popular resorts.
Its spa history dates back to the 18th century when Stanisław August Poniatowski, the last Polish king, officially declared it a spa town. The city developed rapidly and remained a popular resort during both Imperial Russia and later the Soviet Union.
Of course, there is also a modern type of spa. The Druskininkai Aquapark is a wellness and entertainment center with pools, saunas, and water slides awaiting visitors.
Lake Plateliai
Located in Žemaitija National Park, it is one of the country’s most beautiful and largest lakes.
The lake is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers due to its special natural beauty and clean water. The lake encompasses seven islands, of which the most famous is Pilies Island, where a castle once stood.
Hill of Crosses
One of Lithuania’s most unique and well-known sacred sites.
It emerged in the 14th century when locals placed crosses on the hill in memory of the struggles for the country’s freedom. The site’s significance grew in the 19th century during Russian imperial rule when Lithuanians placed crosses to express their resistance and national identity.
The hill is completely covered with Christian symbols of various sizes and styles. These were placed by individuals, families, pilgrims, and tourists, and continue to grow. Many crosses were carved or created by Lithuanian artists, often with religious motifs such as depictions of Jesus, Mary, or saints.
Klaipeda
Lithuania’s third-largest city is located on the Baltic Sea coast and is the country’s only seaport.
The Old Town, the historical center, welcomes visitors with atmospheric narrow streets and old buildings. Here you can find the city’s most famous buildings, such as St. Mary’s Church, Klaipėda Theater, and the Historical Museum.
Its most famous museum is the Klaipėda Maritime Museum. It offers interesting exhibitions for those interested in maritime life, navigation, and the city’s history. The museum grounds also include an aquarium that showcases the Baltic Sea’s wildlife.
Ogre
The small town on the banks of the Daugava River is known for its rich natural and cultural values.
One of its main attractions is its proximity to nature and the city’s green spaces. The Zilie Kalni Nature Park near the city offers beautiful hiking trails, cycling routes, and viewpoints.
