Lithuania: 10 Places and Experiences to Include in Your Trip

Lithuania is compact, easy to navigate, and offers a mix of history, nature, and everyday culture without overwhelming crowds. Medieval old towns sit within reach of forests and coastline, and most major sites can be combined into a short but varied itinerary.

Here are 10 places and experiences in Lithuania that give a clear overview of the country.

Lithuania at a Glance

Explore Vilnius Old Town

The historic center of Vilnius is one of the largest preserved old towns in Europe. Churches, courtyards, and narrow streets reflect centuries of architectural influence. Walking is the best way to understand how the city developed.

Visit Trakai Island Castle

Located on a lake near Vilnius, Trakai Island Castle is one of Lithuania’s most recognizable landmarks. The setting and restored brick structure provide context for the country’s medieval history.

Walk Through Kaunas Old Town

Kaunas offers a smaller but equally engaging historic center. The city blends Gothic and Renaissance architecture with modern cultural spaces, making it a practical second stop after Vilnius.

See the Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a significant pilgrimage site where thousands of crosses have been placed over decades. The site reflects religious expression and resilience rather than traditional monument design.

Explore the Curonian Spit

The Curonian Spit is a narrow sand dune peninsula shared with Russia. Forest paths, fishing villages, and coastal scenery make it one of Lithuania’s most distinctive landscapes.

Visit Klaipėda

The port city of Klaipėda shows German architectural influence and serves as a gateway to the Baltic coast. Its compact old town is easy to explore in a few hours.

Spend Time in Nature Parks

Lithuania has several regional parks with lakes, forests, and walking trails. These areas highlight how accessible nature remains across the country.

Learn About Recent History

Museums in Vilnius and Kaunas provide insight into Lithuania’s twentieth century history, including Soviet occupation and independence movements. Understanding this context adds depth to the visit.

Visit Local Markets and Cafés

Daily life in Lithuania unfolds in neighborhood markets and small cafés. Trying traditional dishes and observing local routines offers a clearer sense of modern Lithuanian culture.

Explore Smaller Towns

Towns outside the main tourist route offer wooden houses, quiet streets, and regional traditions. Including at least one smaller stop gives a more complete picture of the country.

Experience Lithuania Like a Local With HomeExchange

Lithuania is easiest to understand when you stay in residential neighborhoods rather than only near major landmarks. With HomeExchange, travelers can stay in local apartments in Vilnius, Kaunas, or coastal towns, allowing daily routines to shape the trip. Shopping at neighborhood stores, cooking local ingredients, and walking through nearby parks provide context beyond sightseeing.

Staying in a real home supports slower travel and a clearer view of how Lithuanians live today. It helps turn a short visit into a more grounded and practical experience.