Summary
The first stop on the Baltic trio has an extensive array of must-visit sites and activities.
Influenced by long-standing relations with Poland to the west, conflicts involving Russia and Sweden, the Teutonic Knights, and shaped by Slavic builders and Orthodox faiths, it is unsurprising that Lithuania is replete with intriguing locations for the discerning traveler.
Let’s examine the top destinations to explore in Lithuania:
1. Vilnius
The historic capital of the Grand Duchy is a remarkable collection of medieval marvels and exquisite Gothic and Russo-Baroque architecture.
In the Old Town, cobbled streets meander beneath the graceful arches of the beautiful St Anne’s Church, alongside café-dotted squares, and below the imposing Gediminas Keep and Upper Castle citadel dating back to the 13th century.
Furthermore, the new town vibrantly pulses with beer establishments and lively rock venues, and Europe’s unique bohemian district—self-styled as the Republic of Uzupis—invites visitors with its eclectic, graffiti-laden streets and numerous bars.
2. Kaunas
Situated at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers in the heart of central Lithuania, Kaunas boldly presents itself as the country’s cultural hub and nightlife center.
A diverse student population invigorates the nightlife on the tree-lined Laisves Aleja boulevard, while the historic center offers numerous craft bars and underground venues. During the day, visitors can explore the remnants of Kaunas Castle and wander the inviting cobblestone lanes of the Old Town, which boasts appealing medieval merchant guilds and an impressive city hall.
Additionally, exhibitions commemorating M. K. Ciurlionis—arguably Lithuania’s most celebrated artist—are not to be missed!
3. Kernave
Recognized by UNESCO, Kernave is steeped in a rich history that predates many other towns in Lithuania.
Celebrated as one of the original medieval capitals of the Grand Duchy, this location flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries until the Teutonic Order devastated its fortifications and structures.
Today, visitors can explore archaeological reserves along the meandering Neris River, where mounds conceal layers of ancient relics, including burial sites and throne rooms dating back to the late Palaeolithic Period.
4. Klaipeda
Previously known as Memel, Klaipeda once served as a stronghold of Teutonic governance in the Baltic, evolving into a prosperous port and trading center within the Duchy of Prussia, and later becoming the northernmost city in the German Empire during the late 19th century.
Presently, Klaipeda boasts an array of historical artifacts reflecting its 800-year legacy, while simultaneously offering modern nightlife and attractions as the gateway to the Curonian Spit—Lithuania’s most renowned coastal region. Visitors can explore quirky sculptures and cobblestone squares in the Old Town, enjoy locally-crafted beers at traditional taverns, and admire the bulwarks of Klaipeda Castle—all in a single day, alongside medieval docksides and German-style beer halls in the main square.
5. Neringa
A stunning blend of lush pine forests, expansive grasslands, undulating dunes, and sandy beaches, Neringa stretches along the Baltic Coast and towards the historical Polish territory and the unique Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. This region is undoubtedly one of Lithuania’s most desirable destinations.
Stretching along the entirety of the Curonian Spit, it offers excellent opportunities for biking, hiking, windsurfing, and fishing on the Curonian Lagoon’s waters, along with sun-soaked beaches and quaint cottages in age-old towns like Pervalka. It also features the charming cottage of Thomas Mann, along with various artist workshops and galleries that emerged following the German exodus from Königsberg in the 1800s.
6. Palanga
Palanga has become synonymous with summer revelry among Lithuanians nationwide. Today, high-season electro and chart parties thrive from June to August along Jonas Basanavicius Boulevard and the numerous bars and outdoor cocktail lounges lining its periphery.
The beach serves as a major attraction during the summer months, offering perhaps Lithuania’s most accessible stretch of golden sand.
However, Palanga is not limited to late nights and leisurely days.
Visitors can also admire the picturesque neo-Renaissance charm of the Tiskeviciai Palace, explore the intriguing Amber Museum, or discover the nature reserves located nearby in the Curonian Spit.
7. Dzukija National Park
Lithuania’s largest national park occupies an impressive 550 square kilometers, located on the southeastern border near Belarus.
This park features expansive pine forests and riparian wetlands, intersected by the winding Nemunas River.
Inland dunes, characterized by sandy peaks and valleys, host a diverse array of plant species and rock formations.
Wooden boardwalks invite hiking enthusiasts to delve deep into the park, where mushrooms flourish in the underbrush and traditional waxwork artistry thrives in local communities.
8. Trakai
Trakai presents a captivating constellation of islets, verdant hills, shimmering lakes, and sprawling meadows.
Situated just west of Vilnius, it attracts visitors throughout the year.
Many are drawn to the enchanting Lord of the Rings-style castle that is the centerpiece of Trakai Historical National Park; its striking red-brick turrets perfectly reflected in the surrounding lakes.
Others seek summer activities on the banks of the three large lakes: Akmena, Galve, and Skaistis.
The unique cultural remnants of the Karaim community—a Turkic tribe—can also be observed, including their beautiful timber Trakai Kenesa synagogue located on-site.
9. Anyksciai
Located midway between Kaunas and the Latvian border, the verdant town of Anyksciai provides a natural retreat alongside striking religious architecture.
Be sure to admire the soaring Gothic towers of the red-brick Basilica of Apostle Evangelist St Matthew, which dominate the banks of the gentle Sventoji River.
With a history exceeding 500 years, this impressive structure is known for having the tallest church spires in Lithuania, adorned with vibrant stained-glass works created by the renowned artist Anorte Mackelaite.
Following your visit, lace up your hiking boots (in summer) or prepare your skis (in winter), as Anyksciai offers the humble ski resort of Kalitos Kalnas as well as an extensive network of hiking trails in the area.
10. Druskininkai
Elegantly refined, Druskininkai stands as Lithuania’s premier spa destination.
It gained notoriety as early as the 1600s under Grand Duke Stanislaw August Poniatowski, subsequently achieving prominence in the 19th century under the patronage of Tsar Nicholas I of Russia.
Today, this charming town flourishes, with its opulent mansions and spa amenities buzzing with activity from affluent visitors.
Beyond its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic offerings, the city is also linked to the celebrated artist Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis, featuring a notable museum dedicated to his life, alongside the newly established Forest Museum—an immersive exhibition that guides visitors through Lithuanian folklore and mysticism.
11. Panevezys
The fifth-largest city in Lithuania sprawls along the rolling floodplains of the Nevezis River, situated in the northern region of the country.
Originally a royal charter town during the flourishing days of the Grand Duchy, it experienced significant upheaval due to the Industrial Revolution and conflicts in the 20th century.
Despite this, remnants of its pre-war elegance remain, reflected in the ochre-hued facades and Russian Imperial architecture of the city cathedral, along with the charming aged cottages that sometimes contrast with the utilitarian structures from the Soviet era.
12. Siauliai
Various visitors drawn to the former Soviet industrial powerhouse city of Siauliai often seek the mystical Hill of Crosses, which is adorned with an impressive collection of crucifixes and Christ effigies to the north of the town.
However, a closer exploration of this off-the-beaten-path destination reveals charming tree-lined streets, a vibrant café culture, and an impressive local cathedral characterized by its striking whitewashed facade and spired tower.
Do not miss strolling through Povilas Visinskis Square and experiencing the intriguing exhibits at the town’s Bicycle Museum and Radio and TV technology institutions.
13. Aukstaitija National Park
As Lithuania’s first national park, Aukstaitija continues to captivate with its stunning natural scenery comprising old-growth pine forests and nearly 30 distinct lakes and rivers.
This region serves as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the enchanting riparian wilderness that characterizes the Baltic’s northeastern landscapes.
Here, deer roam along the woodland trails, while cattails gently sway along the shores of vast Lake Tauragnas.
Moreover, the area attracts archaeologists and historians due to its ancient artifacts and rural settlements thought to have been inhabited for over 11,000 years. Visitors can also explore burial sites and traditional wooden churches reminiscent of Viking craftsmanship.
14. Plateliai
Situated amidst one of Lithuania’s notable natural treasures, Plateliai serves as an essential entry point to the Zemaitija National Park, which crowns the grassy Zemaiciu Highlands just a short distance from the Baltic Sea coastline.
The lush surrounding landscape encourages excellent walking opportunities, and also features attractions like the Soviet-era Plokstine missile base, now transformed into the enlightening Cold War Museum.
Within the town of Plateliai, visitors can admire a beautiful wooden church dating from the 1700s, or enjoy leisurely walks along the shores of the eponymous lake, where grassy meadows and comfortable hotels extend right to the water’s edge.
15. Rumsiskes
Weathered windmills and decaying wooden cottages contribute to the unique character of Rumsiskes, distinct from the encroaching districts of Kaunas that border it.
Regrettably, the establishment of a reservoir in the mid-20th century submerged significant portions of the original town. However, efforts to preserve the rich historical legacy have given rise to the largest open-air ethnographic museum in the entire Baltic region: The Open-Air Museum of Lithuania.
Visitors today can expect immersive reenactment tours alongside traditional architecture, as well as collections featuring historic artifacts, clothing, religious icons, and more.
