Discover

Lithuania

Though occasionally overshadowed by fellow Baltic states Latvia and Estonia, to those in the know, Lithuania is considered one of Europe’s best kept secrets.

Begin your adventure in the capital city of Vilnius, regarded by many as the ‘Rome of northern Europe’, where unusual architecture, baroque splendour and artistic flourishes mingle amongst the bars, restaurants and green spaces that have earned it such a beguiling reputation.

For the more discerning traveller, outside Vilnius you’ll such oddities as a Soviet sculpture park, a disused nuclear missile site-turned-museum and the Hill of Crosses, not to mention stunning hidden beaches along its bracing Curonian Spit coastline.

 

What you’ll love most about Lithuania

  • Discover the historic charm of Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, where the cobblestone streets and baroque architecture of the UNESCO-listed Old Town offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history, with highlights including the magnificent Vilnius Cathedral and the Gediminas Tower
  • Explore the medieval Trakai Castle, nestled on an island in Lake Galvė, where the well-preserved fortress and picturesque surroundings invite you to step back in time and enjoy the beauty of one of Lithuania’s most iconic landmarks
  • Wander through the haunting Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai, a powerful symbol of Lithuanian faith and resistance, where thousands of crosses of all sizes and designs create a moving and unique pilgrimage site
  • Experience the natural beauty of Lithuania’s Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where pristine sandy dunes, dense forests, and charming fishing villages offer a serene escape along the Baltic Sea’s stunning coastline
  • Savour the flavours of Lithuanian cuisine, from hearty dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup) to sweet treats like šakotis (tree cake), as you dine in traditional restaurants and cosy cafes that celebrate the country’s culinary traditions
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Lithuania, with lively festivals, contemporary art exhibitions, and folk music performances that showcase the nation’s rich heritage and modern creativity, promising a dynamic and enriching experience for visitors

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Vilnius’s weather patterns

Where to Book

  • Pazaislis Monastery - Lithuania Travel/Andrius Aleksandravicius

  • Lake in the Trakai district - Lithuania Travel/Vaidas Geguzis

  • Raudone Castle - Lithuania Travel/Laimonas Ciunys

  • Trakai Castle, Lithuania Travel/Vaidas Geguzis

  • Landscape near Trakai - Lithuania Travel/Vaidas Geguzis

  • The Curonian Spit sand dunes and purple sky - Lithuania Travel/Andrius Aleksandravicius

  • Trakai Castle at night - Lithuania Travel/Laimonas Ciunys

  • Vilnius at night - Lithuania Travel/Laimonas Ciunys

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • -2℃
  • -1℃
  • 4℃
  • 12℃
  • 18℃
  • 21℃
  • 23℃
  • 22℃
  • 17℃
  • 10℃
  • 4℃
  • -1℃
  • 15
  • 12
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 15
  • 15
  • 15
  • 14
  • 17
  • 17
  • 15

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January envelops Lithuania in a deep winter hush. Snow blankets Vilnius’ Old Town, creating a postcard-perfect scene, while Trakai’s frozen lakes invite ice-skating and winter festivals. Indoor attractions like the MO Museum offer cultural warmth against the chill.

February

As February unfolds, the country prepares for Užgavėnės, Lithuania’s lively pre-Lenten celebration. Masked parades and hearty pancakes symbolize the farewell to winter, while the last frosty days provide ideal conditions for exploring snowy forests in the Aukštaitija region.

March

With March, the first hints of spring emerge. Temperatures slowly rise, making it a good time to visit the Curonian Spit, where migratory birds begin their seasonal journeys. Vilnius' cafes buzz with life as locals welcome the lengthening days.

April

In April, Lithuania blossoms into spring. Kaunas’ riverside promenades and botanical gardens come alive with colour, and the forests of Dzūkija National Park offer scenic hiking trails. Mild weather adds a pleasant backdrop to Easter celebrations, rich with local traditions.

May

May sees the countryside in full bloom. Warm and sunny days, with highs reaching 15-20°C, are perfect for cycling along the Nemunas River or exploring Klaipėda’s maritime heritage. Outdoor festivals and markets add vibrancy to the towns and cities.

June

June brings long daylight hours and the summer solstice festival, Joninės. Lithuanians gather to light bonfires, sing, and celebrate nature. The Baltic coast, with its golden dunes and refreshing sea breeze, becomes a favourite escape.

July

In July, summer peaks with temperatures often reaching 20-25°C. Palanga’s beaches bustle with holidaymakers, and the Curonian Spit offers serene retreats. Festivals like the Sea Festival in Klaipėda bring music, food, and maritime traditions to life.

August

August continues the summer charm, though crowds begin to thin. This is an excellent time to visit Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai or take a peaceful boat ride on Lake Galvė. Fresh produce, such as berries and mushrooms, enhances local markets.

September

September ushers in a golden autumn, with crisp air and vibrant foliage in places like Anykščiai Forest. Vilnius' Old Town is especially picturesque under the autumnal glow, and cultural events, such as the Vilnius Music Week, keep the city lively.

October

By October, Lithuania fully embraces autumn’s colours. Nature lovers can hike in Žemaitija National Park or visit Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum to learn about traditional rural life. Cooler days are ideal for hearty Lithuanian dishes like cepelinai.

November

November takes on a quieter, reflective tone. All Saints’ Day sees cemeteries illuminated with candles, a poignant and beautiful tradition. The shorter days make Vilnius’ art galleries and restaurants even more inviting.

December

December transforms Lithuania into a festive haven. Christmas markets light up Vilnius Cathedral Square, offering mulled wine, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats. Snow often graces the cities, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Have you considered...

For history lovers and admirers of Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic architecture, cultural events and cuisine, a short break to any one of Poland‘s top cities – Gdansk, Krakow, Warsaw and Wroclaw has to be on top of the list of European places to encounter.

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