1. Summary
This article provides essential information about Lithuania, including basic facts, top sights, travel tips, and insights into its history and culture.
Lithuania is a captivating Baltic nation characterized by its stunning 55 miles of coast along the Baltic Sea. It shares borders with four countries: Latvia, Poland, Belarus, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.
Basic Lithuania Facts
Population: 3,244,000
Capital: Vilnius, population = 560,190.
Currency: Lithuanian litas (Lt)
Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET) and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) in summer.
Calling Code: 370
Internet TLD: .lt
Language and Alphabet: Lithuanian, one of the two surviving Baltic languages, utilizes the Latin alphabet with specific letters and modifications. While many Lithuanians speak Russian, attempting to use Lithuanian will be appreciated, as will English. In some areas, knowledge of German or Polish can also be beneficial.
Religion: Approximately 79% of the population practices Roman Catholicism, while other religions, such as Eastern Orthodoxy and Islam, are present among various ethnic groups.
Top Sights in Lithuania
Vilnius serves as a vibrant cultural hub in Lithuania, regularly hosting fairs, festivals, and holiday events. Notable examples include the festive Vilnius Christmas market and the Kaziukus Fair, both drawing visitors from around the globe.
Another significant attraction is Trakai Castle, which offers a deep dive into Lithuania’s medieval history and makes for an excellent day trip from Vilnius.
Moreover, the Hill of Crosses stands as an important pilgrimage site, where devout individuals congregate to pray and leave their crosses among thousands left by prior pilgrims. This remarkable religious landmark has attracted visits from popes.
Lithuania Travel Facts
Visa Information: Most travelers can enter Lithuania without a visa for visits lasting under 90 days.
Airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO) serves as the main entry point, with trains providing the quickest connection to the central train station. Additionally, buses 1, 1A, and 2 link the city center to the airport.
Trains: The Vilnius Railway Station connects internationally to Russia, Poland, Belarus, Latvia, and Kaliningrad, along with numerous domestic options; however, buses may offer a cheaper and faster alternative.
Ports: Lithuania’s principal port is in Klaipeda, accommodating ferries that connect to Sweden, Germany, and Denmark.
Lithuania History and Culture Facts
Historically, Lithuania was a medieval power that included territories from Poland, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. It later emerged as part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Following a brief independence after World War I, Lithuania became part of the Soviet Union until regaining independence in 1990. Since 2004, Lithuania has been a member of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement.
The vibrant culture of Lithuania is reflected in traditional Lithuanian folk costumes and celebrated during festive occasions, including Carnival.
