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1 Week in Lithuania (2025): The Perfect Itinerary From a Frequent Visitor

Plan your perfect week in Lithuania with this authentic 2025 itinerary. Discover Vilnius, Kaunas, and the Curonian Spit with insider tips, hidden gems, and money-saving advice from a seasoned traveler.

My Love Affair with Lithuania: An Introduction

The first time I visited Lithuania in 2017, I arrived in Vilnius with exactly zero expectations and a vague plan to “see what happens.” Five visits later, I’m still discovering hidden corners of this Baltic gem that continue to surprise me. On my most recent trip in early 2024, I found myself explaining to a skeptical American couple at my guesthouse why they should extend their planned 2-day visit. “You’ll regret it if you don’t,” I insisted over breakfast. They messaged me a week later: “We stayed the full 7 days. Best decision ever.”

Lithuania packs an incredible amount of diversity into a small package—from the baroque splendor of Vilnius to the pristine dunes of the Curonian Spit, from medieval castles to Soviet-era bunkers. With thoughtful planning, one week gives you just enough time to experience the country’s highlights while still allowing for those spontaneous moments that make travel memorable.

In this 2025 itinerary, I’ll share what I’ve learned through multiple visits (and plenty of mistakes) to help you craft the perfect week in Lithuania. You’ll discover how to navigate the country efficiently, where to splurge and where to save, and how to experience Lithuania like a local rather than a tourist.

Labas (hello) and welcome to your Lithuanian adventure!

Essential Planning: When to Visit Lithuania in 2025

Timing can make or break your Lithuanian experience. After multiple visits across different seasons, I’ve found each offers something special, but also potential drawbacks:

Best Times to Visit Lithuania

  • Late Spring (May-June): My personal favorite. The weather is mild (13-22°C), tourist crowds are thin, and prices haven’t hit summer peaks. The lush greenery is stunning, especially in the national parks.
  • Summer (July-August): Peak season with warm temperatures (20-25°C) and numerous festivals. This is when I visited in 2019, and while I enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere, I paid about 30% more for accommodations.
  • Early Autumn (September): A hidden gem season with comfortable temperatures, beautiful foliage, and harvest festivals. The Curonian Spit is magical during this time.
  • Winter (December-February): Bitterly cold (-5 to -15°C) but atmospheric, especially during Christmas markets. I spent New Year’s 2022 in Vilnius and was enchanted by the snow-covered Old Town, though many coastal attractions were closed.

Insider Tip: For 2025, consider planning around Lithuania’s centenary celebrations of the 1925 Land Reform, with special events planned throughout the year, particularly in Kaunas and rural areas. The national holiday calendar has also been updated for 2025, adding a new public holiday on June 27th (Statehood Day), which will feature special festivities.

Weather Considerations for 2025

Climate patterns have shifted slightly in the Baltic region. Recent years have seen warmer springs starting earlier (sometimes as early as April) and extended summer seasons into September. Winter has become less predictable, with periods of intense cold interspersed with milder spells.

If you’re hoping to experience traditional snow-covered Lithuania, January-February remains your safest bet, though coming prepared for varying conditions is wise. During my February 2023 visit, temperatures swung from -12°C to 5°C in the span of a week!

Budget Considerations by Season

Season Accommodation Activities Crowds
Spring (Apr-Jun) €45-80/night Most open, few lines Low to moderate
Summer (Jul-Aug) €65-120/night All open, some queues High, especially weekends
Autumn (Sep-Oct) €40-75/night Most open, quiet access Low, except national holidays
Winter (Nov-Mar) €35-65/night* Limited coastal options Very low, except Christmas

*December holiday prices in Vilnius can spike to summer rates

Getting Around Lithuania: Transportation Guide

Lithuania’s compact size makes it perfectly suited for a one-week exploration. At just 65,300 km², you can cross the country in about four hours, meaning less time traveling and more time experiencing. Here’s what I’ve learned about getting around effectively:

Public Transportation vs. Car Rental

After trying both options across multiple trips, here’s my honest assessment:

Public Transportation

  • Trains: Lithuania’s rail network connects major cities with clean, punctual service. The newly modernized line between Vilnius and Kaunas (completed in late 2023) now takes just 38 minutes. Tickets cost €5-12 one-way.
  • Buses: The extensive network reaches virtually every town. Autobusubilietai.lt is the main booking platform, with tickets ranging from €5-25 depending on distance.
  • City Transport: Vilnius and Kaunas have efficient bus and trolleybus networks. Download the Trafi app for real-time schedules. A single ride costs €1-2, or get a 3-day tourist card for €12.

Car Rental

For my 2024 visit, I rented a car for the entire week (about €230 total from CarsRent, a local company) and found it offered unmatched flexibility, especially for reaching natural areas like Trakai, Kernavė, and the Curonian Spit. Gas prices in March 2025 are hovering around €1.60/liter.

Money-Saving Tip #1: If renting a car, avoid the airport locations. By taking a quick €10 Bolt ride to downtown Vilnius and renting from there, I saved nearly €80 on my week-long rental. Just make sure to check the office hours, as many city locations close early on weekends.

My Recommendation

For a one-week itinerary, I suggest a hybrid approach: spend your first 2-3 days in Vilnius using public transportation, then rent a car for the remainder of your trip to explore more remote areas. This gives you the best of both worlds—you’ll avoid city parking fees while still having freedom for rural exploration.

One mistake I made on my first visit was renting a car immediately upon arrival, then paying €15/day for parking in Vilnius, where I didn’t actually need it. Learn from my error!

Getting To and From the Airport

Vilnius International Airport (VNO) has significantly improved its connections since my first visit. In 2025, your options include:

  • Train: The airport train station connects directly to Vilnius Central Station (€0.70, 7 minutes)
  • Bus #88: Connects to the city center (€1, 15-20 minutes)
  • Bolt/Uber: Around €7-10 to Old Town, my go-to choice when arriving with luggage

Perfect 7-Day Lithuania Itinerary for 2025

After multiple trips and countless revisions to my own plans, I’ve crafted what I believe is the ideal week-long itinerary that balances must-see highlights with hidden gems, urban experiences with natural beauty, and structured sightseeing with free time for spontaneous discoveries.

Day 1-2: Vilnius and Surroundings

Day 1: Historic Vilnius

Start your Lithuanian adventure in the capital’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, a perfect introduction to the country’s complex history.

My typical morning begins with breakfast at Druska Miltai Vanduo (€7-9 for a fantastic meal), followed by a walking tour of the essentials:

  • Cathedral Square & Bell Tower: The heart of Vilnius. Look for the special “miracle tile” where the human chain to the Baltic Sea began in 1989.
  • Gediminas Hill: Climb for panoramic views (€5 entry to the tower). In 2024, they finally installed benches at the viewing platforms—a welcome addition!
  • Pilies Street: The main artery of the Old Town, filled with amber shops. I’d recommend Amber Queen for authentic pieces with fair prices.
  • St. Anne’s Church: Gothic masterpiece that even Napoleon wanted to take home.

For lunch, I always stop at Šnekutis (Šv. Mikalojaus g. 15) for traditional Lithuanian food at honest prices (€5-7 for a filling meal). Their cepelinai (potato dumplings) are divine, especially washed down with local beer.

In the afternoon, explore either:

  • Option A: The bohemian Republic of Užupis with its constitution of quirky human rights (including a dog’s right to be a dog). The area has gentrified since my first visit but still maintains its artistic soul.
  • Option B: The somber but essential Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (€4), housed in former KGB headquarters. Allow 2 hours to properly absorb the powerful exhibits.

Evening: Dinner at Sweet Root for a splurge (€65 tasting menu) or Etno Dvaras for authentic Lithuanian cuisine at moderate prices (€15-20).

Day 2: Trakai Castle Day Trip

Just 28km from Vilnius lies the postcard-perfect Trakai Castle, set on an island in Lake Galvė. I’ve visited in three different seasons, and each offers a completely different atmosphere.

Morning: Take the train from Vilnius (€2.50 each way, 30 minutes) or drive if you’ve already picked up your rental car.

The castle opens at 10am (€9 entrance). Arrive early to beat tour groups—a lesson I learned the hard way during summer 2019 when I arrived at noon and spent 30 minutes just waiting to enter.

Money-Saving Tip #2: If visiting between November-March, entrance to Trakai Castle is half-price on the last Sunday of the month. I saved €4.50 per person during my winter visit simply by planning around this discount day.

Lunch: Try the famous Karaite kibinai (savory pastries) at Senoji Kibininė (€2-3 each). The traditional lamb filling is particularly excellent.

Afternoon: Hike around the lake (a 12km loop) or rent a paddleboat in summer (€10/hour). In winter, if the lake freezes sufficiently, locals skate around the castle—a magical experience I enjoyed in January 2022, though lake freezing has become less reliable with warming winters.

Return to Vilnius for your final evening in the capital.

Day 3-4: Kaunas and the Countryside

Day 3: Kaunas, Lithuania’s Second City

Morning: Pick up your rental car (if following my recommended hybrid transportation approach) and drive to Kaunas (1 hour) or take the train (38 minutes, €7.30).

Kaunas has undergone a remarkable transformation since being named European Capital of Culture in 2022. The city has maintained this momentum, with continued renovation of its modernist buildings and an energized cultural scene that surprised me during my 2024 visit.

Begin at Kaunas Old Town, more compact than Vilnius but equally charming. Don’t miss:

  • Kaunas Castle: The city’s 14th-century origin point (€4 entry)
  • Laisvės Alėja: The elegant pedestrian boulevard recently renovated with outdoor cafes
  • Vilniaus Street: Medieval thoroughfare with excellent amber and linen shops

Lunch at Uoksas (€15-20), where I had one of my best meals in Lithuania—their duck with local berries was unforgettable.

Afternoon: Visit the quirky Devils’ Museum (€5), housing over 3,000 depictions of devils from around the world, then explore the M.K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art (€8) to see works by Lithuania’s most famous painter-composer.

End the day at the Kaunas Market for a sensory overload of local products. The smoked cheese vendors will let you sample before buying—a perfect opportunity to try the local specialty, džiugas cheese.

Day 4: Rural Lithuanian Heritage

Today explores Lithuania’s ancient roots and rural traditions. Having a car is essential for this day.

Morning: Visit Kernavė Archaeological Site (UNESCO World Heritage, €3), Lithuania’s earliest known capital. The five hillfort mounds date back to 9000 BCE. When I visited in 2021, I was the only tourist there despite its historical significance—a peaceful experience exploring Lithuania’s origin story.

Continue to Rumšiškės Open-Air Ethnographic Museum (€9), an immense outdoor museum with reconstructed villages from all Lithuanian regions. Plan at least 3 hours here—I initially allocated just 1 hour and regretted it deeply.

During summer weekends, artisans demonstrate traditional crafts. I tried my hand at šiaudiniai sodai (straw chandelier) making, failing miserably but enjoying the experience!

Local Phrase: To express appreciation for craft demonstrations, say “Labai įdomu” (lah-BAI ee-DOM-oo), meaning “Very interesting!”

Late afternoon: Drive to Klaipėda (3 hours), Lithuania’s coastal gateway. Check into your accommodation—I recommend the charming Old Port Hotel (€65-90) in a converted warehouse.

Day 5-6: Coastal Lithuania

Day 5: Curonian Spit National Park

The Curonian Spit ranks among Europe’s most unique landscapes—a narrow sand peninsula with massive dunes, pine forests, and tiny fishing villages. This UNESCO-listed site was the highlight of my first Lithuanian trip and keeps drawing me back.

Morning: Take the ferry from Klaipėda to Smiltynė (€12 with car, runs every 30-60 minutes). In peak summer, arrive early—I once waited nearly 2 hours during an August weekend!

Your first stop should be Parnidis Dune near Nida. The wooden walkway leads to stunning views over what feels like a Lithuanian desert. The enormous sundial at the top was damaged in a 1999 storm but has been beautifully restored.

Lunch in Nida at Kastuvos Restoranas for excellent local fish (€12-18). Their smoked eel is a regional specialty worth trying.

Money-Saving Tip #3: Bringing your own water and snacks to the Curonian Spit is essential. Food prices in Nida can be 30-40% higher than the mainland due to the logistics of bringing supplies across the lagoon. I fill a cooler bag before taking the ferry.

Afternoon: Visit the Thomas Mann Museum (€4) to learn about the Nobel laureate’s summer home, then walk through the atmospheric old cemetery with its traditional carved wooden grave markers.

End the day with a sunset walk along Nida’s harbor, where fishing boats still bring in their daily catch. The smell of smoked fish permeates the air from the traditional smoking huts.

Return to Klaipėda in the evening or stay overnight in Nida for a more relaxed experience (though accommodations are 40-50% more expensive than in Klaipėda).

Day 6: Klaipėda and Palanga

Morning: Explore Klaipėda’s Old Town, with its unique German-influenced fachwerk architecture. Start at Theatre Square with the famous “Annchen von Tharau” statue, then wander the reconstructed castle site and atmospheric old warehouse district.

Look for the quirky miniature sculptures hidden throughout the old town—part of the “Klaipėda Legend Route.” Finding them became a fun scavenger hunt during my stay!

Lunch at Mėmelės Blėkitis for authentic regional dishes in a historic building (€8-12).

Afternoon: Drive to nearby Palanga (25 minutes), Lithuania’s premier beach resort. While overcrowded in summer, spring and autumn reveal its elegant, peaceful character.

Visit the magnificent Amber Museum (€7) housed in a 19th-century palace, then stroll through its surrounding botanical garden to reach the sea via the famous Palanga Pier.

Local Phrase: When admiring the Baltic Sea views, you might want to say “Koks gražus vaizdas!” (koks gra-ZHUS vaiz-das), meaning “What a beautiful view!”

If weather permits, join locals for amber hunting after a storm—the Baltic Sea regularly washes up small pieces of “Lithuanian gold” on Palanga’s beaches. During my October 2019 visit, I found three small pieces after just 30 minutes of searching!

Evening: Return to Klaipėda for dinner at 19 Nendriu, specializing in modern interpretations of Curonian cuisine (€25-35). The fish soup served in a bread bowl is particularly memorable.

Day 7: Return to Vilnius via Hill of Crosses

Morning: Begin your journey back to Vilnius, but not before visiting one of Lithuania’s most extraordinary sights.

Drive to the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai (2 hours from Klaipėda). This pilgrimage site contains over 100,000 crosses, from tiny lapel pins to enormous carved monuments. It began in the 19th century and became a powerful symbol of Lithuanian resistance during Soviet occupation, when authorities bulldozed the site multiple times only to have crosses reappear overnight.

The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else I’ve visited—simultaneously somber and hopeful, overwhelming yet peaceful. During my first visit, I impulsively bought a small wooden cross (€5 from vendors near the parking lot) and added it to the thousands, writing a small wish on its back.

Afterward, continue to Vilnius (2.5 hours). Return your rental car and enjoy a final evening in the capital.

For your farewell dinner, I recommend Lokys in a medieval merchant house, specializing in traditional Lithuanian hunting cuisine. Their beaver stew might sound unusual, but it’s a fascinating taste of authentic medieval Lithuanian fare (€35-45).

Making Memories: My Conclusion and Action Plan

Lithuania continues to be one of Europe’s most rewarding undiscovered gems. With each visit, I uncover new layers of its complex history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The country’s small size and warm hospitality make it perfect for an intensive week of exploration.

During my first visit in 2017, I made some painful mistakes: rushing through Vilnius in just a day, skipping Kaunas entirely, and missing the Hill of Crosses because it seemed “too far” from my route. Don’t repeat my errors—Lithuania deserves a thoughtful, unhurried approach.

I still remember the smell of smoked fish on the Curonian Spit, the sound of Baltic waves on Palanga’s shore, the taste of cold šaltibarščiai (pink beetroot soup) on a warm summer day, and the feeling of absolute tranquility while watching the sunset from Parnidis Dune. These sensory memories linger long after the trip ends.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for the Perfect Lithuanian Adventure

  1. Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead if visiting during summer or on holidays. Lithuania’s growing popularity means the best places fill quickly. I learned this the hard way in July 2019, when I ended up in a subpar hotel because I waited until the last minute.
  2. Learn 5-10 basic Lithuanian phrases. While young Lithuanians speak excellent English, older generations appreciate the effort. Even my mangled pronunciation of “ačiū” (thank you, pronounced ah-CHOO) earned warm smiles from locals.
  3. Pack layers regardless of season. Baltic weather is notoriously changeable—I’ve experienced four seasons in a single day! A waterproof jacket is essential even in summer.
  4. Withdraw cash before visiting smaller towns. While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, some rural restaurants and markets remain cash-only. ATMs can be scarce outside urban areas.
  5. Schedule at least one authentic experience beyond standard sightseeing—perhaps a traditional food workshop, amber crafting class, or local folklore evening. These create the most lasting memories.

Sustainability Tip: Lithuania’s excellent tap water means you can save money and reduce plastic waste by bringing a reusable bottle. I’ve been filling mine from taps across the country for years without issues. The country has also introduced a bottle deposit system (€0.10 per container), so return rather than discard any plastic bottles you do use.

Whether you’re drawn by the baroque splendor of Vilnius, the unique landscape of the Curonian Spit, or the powerful history of a nation that has repeatedly fought for its independence, Lithuania offers a European experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly different. As the locals might say, “laimingo kelio“—happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuania Travel

Is Lithuania safe for tourists?

Absolutely. Lithuania has one of the lowest crime rates in the EU, and I’ve never felt unsafe, even walking alone at night in Vilnius. The most common issues tourists face are occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas and taxi overcharging (use Bolt app to avoid this). The country has excellent healthcare facilities if needed.

How expensive is Lithuania compared to other European destinations?

Lithuania offers excellent value compared to Western and Northern Europe. A typical restaurant meal costs €10-20, a local beer €3-4, and quality accommodations run €50-100 per night. Museum entries average €5-10. My daily budget (excluding accommodation) typically runs €40-60 for comfortable travel with occasional splurges. It’s comparable to Poland or Slovakia in pricing.

Can I get by with English in Lithuania?

In cities and tourist areas, absolutely. Younger Lithuanians (under 40) generally speak excellent English. In rural areas, language barriers are more common, but basic communication is usually possible. I’ve found that Google Translate’s camera feature helps with menus and signs in smaller towns. Russian is widely understood by older generations but may be politically sensitive—ask before using it.

What’s the best way to handle money in Lithuania?

Lithuania uses the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities (Visa/Mastercard more than American Express), but keep some cash for small purchases, rural areas, and markets. ATMs are abundant in towns but may have limited withdrawal amounts (usually €500-800 maximum). Inform your bank about travel plans to avoid card blocks. Tipping culture exists but is modest—10% is standard in restaurants, but not mandatory.

Is one week enough time for Lithuania?

One week allows you to see the highlights at a reasonable pace. If you have more time, consider adding visits to the Zemaitija National Park, the Soviet missile base at Plokštinė, or exploring the spa town of Druskininkai. With less time, prioritize Vilnius and the Curonian Spit, sacrificing Kaunas if necessary.

What souvenirs should I buy in Lithuania?

Authentic souvenirs include amber jewelry (look for certification to avoid plastic fakes), linen products, handmade wooden items, traditional black bread, and Grybukai (mushroom-shaped cookies). Local crafts markets in Vilnius (Pilies Street) and Klaipėda offer the best selection. I’ve found the Linen Garden shops to have excellent quality-to-price ratio for textiles.

How has Lithuania changed since COVID-19?

As of 2025, Lithuania has fully reopened with no COVID restrictions. The pandemic accelerated digital services—most attractions now offer online booking, and contactless payment has become nearly universal. Some smaller guesthouses and restaurants closed permanently, but new businesses have emerged. The tourism recovery has been strong, with visitor numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels in summer 2024.

Should I visit Lithuania as part of a Baltic States tour?

While many travelers combine Lithuania with Latvia and Estonia, I recommend giving Lithuania its own dedicated trip if possible. The three Baltic states are more different than most realize, each with distinct language, culture, and atmosphere. Rushing through all three in a week means missing the depth each country offers. If you must combine them, allow at least 10-14 days.

References and Further Reading

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