Uncovering Lithuania’s Hidden Treasures: 8 Must-Visit Destinations

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you uncover Lithuania’s hidden treasures, ensuring seamless communication while exploring 8 must-visit destinations, from medieval cities to stunning natural landscapes.

A land where medieval castles meet pristine beaches, Lithuania packs a wealth of natural and historical wonders into a compact Baltic country. With fewer crowds than its neighbours Latvia and Estonia, Lithuania offers intrepid travellers the chance to explore ancient forests, charming old towns, and unique cultural sites at their own pace.

1. Trakai Island Castle: A Medieval Marvel

Perched on an island in Lake Galvė, the 14th-century Trakai Island Castle is one of the most beautiful places in Lithuania. This striking red-brick fortress was once the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Today, visitors can:

• Cross the wooden footbridge to the castle

• Explore the castle’s towers, halls, and Gothic and Renaissance chambers

• Learn about the history of the Karaites, an ancient Turkic people who settled in Trakai in the 14th century

• Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Galvė for stunning views of the castle

Getting There: Trakai is just 28 km west of Vilnius. Trains and buses run frequently between the two cities, with a journey time of around 30 minutes.

2. Vilnius Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem

As one of the best places to visit in Lithuania, Vilnius Old Town charms visitors with its labyrinth of cobblestone streets and Baroque architecture. Must-see sights include:

• Gediminas Castle Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic city views

• St. Anne’s Church: Marvel at this Gothic masterpiece

• Gates of Dawn: Visit the 16th-century city gate and chapel

• Užupis: Stroll through this bohemian neighbourhood, known as the ‘Republic of Užupis’

Insider Tip: For a unique experience, book a hot air balloon ride over Vilnius at sunrise or sunset.

3. Hill of Crosses: A Powerful Pilgrimage Site

The Hill of Crosses, located 12 km north of Šiauliai, is a deeply moving testament to Lithuanian faith and resilience. This small hill is blanketed in over 100,000 crosses, crucifixes, and rosaries left by Catholic pilgrims.

• The tradition of leaving crosses began in the 19th century as a symbol of Lithuanian nationalism and resistance to foreign rule.

• During the Soviet era, the hill was bulldozed multiple times, but Lithuanians continued to plant crosses in the dead of night.

• Today, the Hill of Crosses stands as a powerful reminder of Lithuania’s history and a famous place of pilgrimage.

4. Curonian Spit National Park: A Natural Wonder

Stretching 98 km along the Baltic Sea, the Curonian Spit is a UNESCO-listed national park shared by Lithuania and Russia’s Kaliningrad Oblast. This narrow strip of sand dunes, pine forests, and quaint fishing villages is a haven for nature lovers and one of the top Lithuania tourist places. Highlights include:

• Parnidis Dune: Climb the wooden staircase to the top of this 52-meter-high dune for breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon.

• Nida: Explore this charming resort town, known for its colourful wooden houses and Thomas Mann Memorial Museum.

• Hill of Witches: Hike through this open-air gallery featuring wooden sculptures depicting Lithuanian folklore and pagan traditions.

5. Kaunas: Lithuania’s Second City

Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas, served as the country’s temporary capital between 1920 and 1939. Today, this vibrant university town offers a mix of medieval charm and modern energy. Top attractions include:

• Kaunas Castle: Visit this 14th-century castle on the banks of the Nemunas River.

• Laisvės Alėja: Stroll down this lively pedestrian street lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.

• Devil’s Museum: Explore this quirky museum housing a collection of over 3,000 devil sculptures and carvings.

6. Aukštaitija National Park: A Natural Escape

Covering over 400 sq km of forests, lakes, and rivers, Aukštaitija National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the best places to visit in Lithuania for nature lovers. Activities include:

• Hiking and cycling along scenic trails

• Canoeing and kayaking on the park’s lakes and rivers

• Visiting traditional villages and ethnographic museums

• Birdwatching and wildlife spotting (look out for lynx, wolves, and beavers)

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for warm weather and long daylight hours.

7. Palanga: Lithuania’s Premier Beach Resort

Located on the Baltic Sea coast, Palanga is Lithuania’s liveliest and most popular beach resort. With its long sandy beach, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly attractions, Palanga attracts visitors from across Lithuania and beyond. Highlights include:

• Palanga Beach: Sunbathe, swim, or stroll along this wide, sandy beach.

• Palanga Pier: Walk out over the sea on this 470-meter-long pier, especially stunning at sunset.

• Amber Museum: Learn about the ‘Baltic Gold’ at this museum housed in a 19th-century palace.

Insider Tip: For a quieter beach experience, head to the nearby town of Šventoji.

8. Druskininkai: A Spa Town Retreat

Nestled in southern Lithuania, Druskininkai is a historic spa town known for its mineral springs, mud baths, and wellness resorts. Surrounded by pine forests and lakes, Druskininkai offers a relaxing escape from city life. Key attractions include:

• Druskininkai Spa: Indulge in mineral baths, massages, and beauty treatments at this modern spa complex.

• Snow Arena: Hit the indoor ski slopes year-round at this unique attraction.

• Grutas Park: Explore this controversial sculpture park featuring Soviet-era statues and propaganda.

Getting There: Druskininkai is 130 km southwest of Vilnius. Buses run regularly between the two cities, with a journey time of around 2 hours.

Stay Connected in Lithuania with Airtel

As you explore Lithuania’s diverse attractions, stay connected with Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming plans. Airtel ensures you have reliable access to data and voice services wherever your journey takes you.

From making online reservations to navigating with GPS, an international roaming plan keeps you connected without the hassle of local SIM cards. Plus, with affordable rates starting at just ₹133 per day, Airtel’s plans offer great value for frequent travellers.

Lithuania may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to history, culture, and natural beauty. From the medieval charm of Vilnius and Trakai to the stunning landscapes of the Curonian Spit and Aukštaitija National Park, this Baltic gem offers something for every type of traveller. So why not add Lithuania to your bucket list and discover its hidden treasures for yourself?