9 Best Cities in Lithuania to Visit + 3 Other Top Places to Visit in Lithuania

Planning your trip to the beautiful Baltic nation of Lithuania, and not sure which are the best cities in Lituania to visit? You’re in the right place!

This country is steeped in history and culture, not to mention rolling landscapes filled with pine forests. From towering castles to cobblestone streets I’ll tell you about the best places to visit in Lithuania.

I’ve visited Lithuania on two separate occasions – each time to different places, and each time always in amazement about how underrated the country is.

In this guide, I’ll be highlighting the 9 best cities in Lithuania that, in my opinion, you simply cannot miss. They are all worthy of a place somewhere on your Lithuania itinerary!

The Best Places to Visit in Lithuania

The Baltic nation of Lithuania is gaining traction as a vibrant holiday destination – especially in recent years when the classic holiday destinations of Greece and Southern Spain have been too hot during the peak summer holiday season.

Lithuania offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns. Each Lithuanian city carries its own distinct character and allure, promising a unique experience for every traveller – whatever your interests. This makes the task of listing the best city in Lithuania a challenging one!

The country regained independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990, and over the past three decades, Lithuania has emerged as a forward-thinking nation, that takes pride in their heritage and have managed to seamlessly blend the old and the new. As you plan your trip to Lithuania, expect to be greeted with warm smiles, stories of the country’s past and present, and a plethora of – sometimes unusual – sights to see.

The cities and countryside are filled with fascinating sights, from majestic castles to serene pine forests – and believe it or not – white sandy beaches. In this guide, I shed light on the top places to visit in Lithuania to help you make the most of your trip.

So let’s get ready to explore the best Lithuanian cities.

Top 9 Best Cities in Lithuania

• Vilnius
• Kaunas
• Klaipėda
• Šiauliai
• Trakai
• Druskininkai
• Palanga
• Panevėžys
• Zarasai

and three other great places to see in Lithuania

• Nida
• Juodkrantė
• Liškiava

I’ve partnered with Lithuania Travel to bring you this travel guide. This article is based on some of the destinations and experiences I took part in. All views and opinions are my own.

Lithuania Cities Map

Planning what to visit in Lithuania? This map shows all the places mentioned in this article.

Best Cities in Lithuania

If you’re wondering where to go in Lithuania, it’s time to delve into the heart of each city. I give an overview of each city, as well as the best things to see while you’re there.

1. Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city filled with stunning architecture, bustling streets, and endless charm. Its Old Town is one of the most beautiful places in Lithuania. Like the other Baltic capitals of Riga and Tallinn, Vilnius is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts impressive Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings.

Of course, you could wander about by yourself, getting lost in the photogenic streets, however, to really get the most out of your visit and to learn about the history of the city as well as insider tips and hidden gems, then it’s worth taking a guided tour of Vilnius.

One of the most famous buildings in Lithuania is the iconic Gediminas Castle Tower – if you’re feeling energetic then climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

The city of Vilnius is also home to an autonomous district, Užupis, known for its bohemian vibe and street art. Don’t miss the chance to cross the “Republic of Užupis” bridge while you’re there to find a whole array of street art, and installations, as well as read the Constitution of the Republic of Užupis.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

If you’re visiting the city, I highly recommend Artagonist Art Hotel in the historic centre of Vilnius. I stayed here and was impressed with how close it was located to everything. The rooms (and public spaces) are modern and are filled with artwork and installations, and they also serve an outstanding breakfast.

Best Places to Visit in Vilnius

• Explore the historic Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the iconic Gediminas Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
• Step into the sacred Vilnius Cathedral, a significant symbol of the Lithuanian state.
• Wander around Užupis, a bohemian self-declared republic within the city.

2. Kaunas

Kaunas is one of the biggest cities in Lithuania – in fact, it’s the second-largest city and is a hub of Lithuanian economic, academic, and cultural life. The city boasts a mix of modern and historical architecture, as well as beautiful parks and gardens.

One of the main attractions in Kaunas is the charming Old Town with medieval merchant houses, castle, impressive churches, and cosy cafes. If you’re interested in history and culture join one of the Kaunas city walking tours.

If you’re interested in the Soviet past and finding out how it shaped the country, then don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Ninth Fort Museum, a former Soviet prison camp during World War II.

Best Places to Visit in Kaunas

• Stroll through the picturesque Old Town and Castle and admire the mix of architectural styles.
• Learn about Lithuania’s history at the Ninth Fort Museum.
• Explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, Kaunas Botanical Garden.
• Experience the vibrant local art scene at the Kaunas Picture Gallery.

3. Klaipėda

Klaipėda, situated on the Baltic Sea coast, is Lithuania’s sole port city and serves as a crucial gateway to the country. Formerly known as Memel, Lithuania acquired the city in 1923 and renamed it Klaipėda. This ice-free port underwent substantial growth and emerged as the central hub for Lithuania’s international trade.

The city has a laid-back atmosphere and a unique blend of German and Lithuanian culture due to its history of being a former Prussian territory. It’s also one of the best places to stay if you want to visit the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO-listed narrow strip of land that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea.

Best Places to Visit in Klaipėda

• Visit the quaint Klaipėda Old Town with its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.
• Enjoy a ferry ride to the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the 19th-century neo-Gothic Klaipėda Clock Museum for a fascinating look at the history and mechanisms of timekeeping.
• Learn about the city’s history at the Castle Museum.

4. Šiauliai

Located in northern Lithuania, Šiauliai is the fourth-largest city in the country. The city is known for its religious significance, being home to the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site with over 100,000 crosses on display.

If you’re wondering what to see in Lithuania that’s a little bit offbeat, then the Hill of Crosses is the answer. The first written mention of the crosses dates back to 1850, although some believe they may have appeared earlier.

It is speculated that mourning relatives of the victims of revolts against the Russian regime in 1831 and 1863 left these crosses. Today it has since become a symbol of Lithuanian resistance to foreign occupation and serves as a place for people to express their faith and beliefs, or simply witness the powerful display of crosses.

Best Places to Visit in Šiauliai

• Take a trip to the Hill of Crosses, an iconic landmark and a symbol of Lithuania’s faith and resilience.
• Explore the Šiauliai Ausros Museum, filled with artefacts and exhibits showcasing the history of the city.
• Visit St. Peter and Paul’s Cathedral, a beautiful Baroque church with an impressive interior.
• Enjoy a walk through Šiauliai Botanical Garden, home to over 1,400 species of plants.

5. Trakai

If you look up any list of top 10 places to visit in Lithuania, I guarantee that Trakai will be at the top of that list. Located just 30km west of Vilnius, Trakai is a picturesque town known for its stunning lakeside castle and cultural history.

The most iconic landmark in Trakai is the beautiful red-brick Castle of Trakai, also known as the Island Castle. Originally it was built in the 14th century. It served as the residence of the Grand Duke of Lithuania and is now a popular tourist attraction – for both locals and visitors.

You can cross the footbridge and explore the castle’s grounds, towers, and courtyards, or take a boat ride on the surrounding lake for stunning views of the castle from afar.

For nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking in the surrounding forests and around the beautiful lakes

If you’re looking for things to do in Lithuania in winter, it gets so cold here that you can go sledging and skating on the lake when it freezes over!

The Karaites of Trakai

The Karaites are a small ethnic and religious group residing primarily in Trakai, they came here towards the end of the 14th century.

They originated from the Crimean Peninsula, with their name being derived from the Karaite faith which is based on the Old Testament but with Islamic elements. Even though they have been living in Lithuania for more than 600 years, they have successfully preserved their distinct language and traditions.

In Trakai, you’ll find traditional Trakai Karaite houses which are wooden, and stand endwise to the street. They have the signature three windows facing the street; one for their God, one for the Grand Duke and one for themselves.

The cultural influence of the Karaite is also significant in their culinary scene. While you’re in Trakai don’t miss trying kibinai, a traditional pastry filled with meat or vegetables – a local speciality – I opted for a veggie-friendly spinach and vegetable one – it was delicious!

Best Places to Visit in Trakai

• Explore the iconic Trakai Island Castle, situated on an island in Lake Galvė.
• Try the local Karaite dish, kibinai, at one of the town’s traditional restaurants.
• Enjoy a peaceful walk around the picturesque Lake Galvė.
• Visit the Trakai History Museum to delve deeper into the region’s past.

6. Druskininkai

Lithuania is famous for its spa culture. Druskininkai is a popular spa town situated in southern Lithuania, near the borders of Poland and Belarus. This charming town has been a popular destination for relaxation and wellness since the 19th century when its natural mineral waters were discovered.

Today, it’s still one of the best places to visit Lithuania for anyone wanting a bit of rest and relaxation. Druskininkai attracts visitors with its numerous spa resorts – I highly recommend SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai.

Other places of interest in the city are the Druskininkai Aquapark, which features a variety of pools, slides and saunas, and the Grutas Park – an outdoor museum showcasing Soviet-era sculptures. If you’re interested in cycling or hiking, the surrounding nature parks offer a multitude of trails and views.

SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai

I had the pleasure of staying for 3 nights at the 4 star SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai. This wellness centre is located in the charming town of Druskininkai, Lithuania, which has a long history as a health resort.

The location itself is picturesque, with pinewoods surrounding it and the Nemunas River flowing nearby. It boasts a mild and warm climate with clean and fresh air – perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The onsite restaurant serves delicious food using fresh, local ingredients – perfect for a balanced and wholesome diet during your stay. The menu offers a great variety of dishes to suit all tastes – also there are plenty of options for vegetarians too!

Rooms are comfortable and fitted with ambient lighting as well as slippers and robes for use during your stay. I particularly loved the large soft beds – perfect for a good night’s sleep. There’s also an onsite gym, bowling alley, games room with ping-pong as well as the Amber Room – a room fitted with the best sound system you’ll find, with comfortable reclining chairs and a large screen to watch a range of fully immersive films.

The real highlight of my stay was the wellness procedures and treatments – I had a 60-minute full body massage during my stay – it was pure bliss!

You also have unlimited use of the spa facilities which include various pools, jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms. The water used at SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai is highly mineralized and directly supplied from a local source – you even have the chance to drink it – it’s warm and very salty, but apparently good for you.

Best Places to Visit in Druskininkai

• Experience rejuvenation at one of the many spa centres offering mineral water treatments and mud therapies.
• Visit the intriguing Grutas Park featuring Soviet-era statues and an insight into Lithuanian history.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful Nemunas River or explore the dense pine forests surrounding the town.
• Experience the thrill of winter sports, regardless of the season, at the Snow Arena, an indoor ski slope.

7. Palanga

Palanga, located on the stunning Baltic Sea coast, is a popular seaside resort town. Here is the best place in Lithuania to find soft, golden sandy beaches, a lively atmosphere, and beautiful parks.

The town is famous for its Amber. The city’s Amber Museum showcases a wide variety of amber pieces and educates visitors on the history and cultural significance of this precious gemstone.

Palanga also has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from. And for those interested in history and architecture, the Palanga Botanical Park features traditional wooden buildings and beautiful gardens.

If you’re looking for a lively beach vacation with plenty of activities, Palanga is one of the best cities in Lithuania to visit.

Things to Do in Palanga

• Relax and soak up the sun at Palanga Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
• Stroll along the picturesque Birute Park and visit the Amber Museum, which showcases the town’s rich amber heritage.
• Explore the lively Basanavicius Street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
• Experience the buzzing nightlife at one of Palanga’s many bars and clubs.

8. Panevėžys

Located in the northern part of Lithuania, this is the fifth-largest city in Lithuania. Panevėžys is a modern and vibrant city. It’s known for its green spaces, cultural events, and unique architecture.

One of the main attractions in Panevėžys is the St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-style church that dominates the city’s skyline.

In addition to its historical sites, Panevėžys has a thriving arts and culture scene. The Cultural Centre hosts various events, including concerts, theatre performances, and art exhibitions – you’ll also find plenty of murals and street art dotted around the city.

Things to Do in Panevėžys

• Admire the intricate murals and street art scattered throughout the town.
• Visit Juozas Miltinis Drama Theatre, named after a famous Lithuanian theatre director.
• Indulge in traditional Lithuanian cuisine such as cepelinai, potato dumplings filled with meat or cheese, at one of the local restaurants.
• Immerse yourself in Lithuanian art and culture at Panevėžys Civic Art Gallery and Panevėžys Museum.

9. Zarasai

Nestled in the northeastern part of Lithuania, Zarasai is a small town surrounded by beautiful lakes and lush forests. Its pristine natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for anyone into outdoor pursuits.

Aside from its stunning natural landscapes, Zarasai also has plenty of history and cultural heritage to delve into, making it one of the top places of interest in Lithuania for those keen on finding out more about Lithuania’s past.

Things to Do in Zarasai

• Walk around Lake Zaraitis, one of the country’s largest natural bodies of water
• Visit Zarasai Regional Museum, which showcases the town’s history and traditions
• Take a boat tour of one of the many lakes surrounding the town.
• Explore the nearby Aukštaitija National Park, known for its scenic hiking trails and diverse wildlife.

A few other places to visit on your Lithuania vacation…

10. Nida

Located on the Curonian Spit, a narrow sand dune that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea, Nida is a small fishing village that has become a popular tourist destination. If you’re looking for beautiful pictures of Lithuania, then I suggest searching for this town – the colourful wooden houses are super cute.

With its stunning natural surroundings and photogenic backdrop, Nida attracts visitors from all over the world. Nida offers an ideal setting for those looking to relax and unwind, with its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views of the lagoon.

Things to Do in Nida

• Take a walk through Neringa National Park, home to some of the most beautiful dunes in Europe.
• Visit the iconic Parnidis Dune, known for its stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Explore the charming streets of Nida and admire its traditional wooden houses.
• Explore Nida Lighthouse, one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in Lithuania.

11. Juodkrantė

Nestled on the Curonian Spit, Juodkrantė is another coastal town that boasts gorgeous natural scenery. With its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for nature lovers and beachgoers.

I mentioned earlier on in this article about the Hill of Crosses – well here you can find the Hill of Witches! It’s a sculpture park filled with wooden carvings of Lithuanian folk tales, witches, and other creatures. It’s definitely worth a visit for some unique photo opportunities.

Things to Do in Juodkrantė

• Explore the Hill of Witches, an open-air sculpture museum filled with wooden carvings depicting Lithuanian folklore and legends.
• Walk along the shoreline, where you can witness the stunning panoramic views of the Curonian Lagoon.
• Visit the Juodkrantė Amber Bay, where you can learn about the history and significance of amber in Lithuanian culture.
• Discover the unique flora and fauna of the region in the Curonian Spit National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

12. Liškiava

Perched on the banks of the Nemunas River, Liškiava is a small town with plenty of history and a serene atmosphere. Its main attraction is the magnificent Liškiava Manor, an 18th-century palace surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful scenery.

The manor also houses a museum where visitors can learn about its past owners and their contributions to Lithuania’s culture and heritage.

It’s also home to one of the oldest monasteries in Lithuania. The light pink building sits proudly at the top of a (very steep) flight of steps. We visited as part of our cycle tour of Lithuania – cycling up that hill was a killer, but the view at the top was fabulous.

Things to Do in Liškiava

• Visit Liškiava Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Lithuania with a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
• Enjoy a picnic along the riverbank or take a relaxing boat ride on the Nemunas.
• Learn about traditional Lithuanian life at the Ethnographic Crafts Museum.

Best Cities in Lithuania – FAQs

In this section, I’ll answer some of the frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Lithuania. Whether you’re wondering about the best time to visit Lithuania, or seeking more tips on the best places to visit in Lithuania, this section is for you.

How Many of These Best Places to Visit in Lithuania Are on Your List?

Well, there you have it, I’ve given you a fairly comprehensive list of the best cities in Lithuania as well as plenty of insights on what to see in each place.

How many of these places will you be adding to your Lithuania itinerary?

Looking for more information about Lithuania or the Baltic States Travel? Then check out these other inspirational articles…

• 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltics
• 3 Must-Visit Lithuania Castles
• Visiting an Abandoned Amusement Park in Elektrenai, Lithuania
• 33 Amazing Things To Do in Tallinn
• Riga 3 Days Itinerary