Top 15 Best Things To Do in Lithuania

Unleash your adventurous spirit and dive into the top 15 best things to do in Lithuania! Picture yourself walking along the mesmerizing sand dunes of Curonian Spit or the fairytale fortress of Trakai Island Castle. Discover all of that and more in this blog!

Elevate your journey with Lithuania's diverse selection of tours to add to your itinerary. With various flight options and the best places to stay all over Lithuania, reaching this charming destination is easier than ever. Let’s get started—check off your bucket list and dive into the exciting experiences that await you in this stunning country!

15. Delve Into History and Soviet-Era Statues at Grutas Park

Take a day trip to South Lithuania’s Grutas Park open-air museum. Located near Druskininkai, it features around 86 Soviet-era statues of various sizes, some tall and striking, preserved after Lithuania's independence.

Grutas Park is popular with visitors wanting to learn more about the Soviet occupation. Among the famous sculptures are the Totalitarian and Terror Spheres and a statue of Vladimir Lenin, symbolizing Soviet control. Meanwhile, prison camp replicas depict the terror and harsh regime of that time.

Set aside an hour or two to explore the park and make the most of your visit. The park's large size and layout call for plenty of walking, so comfortable shoes are necessary to enjoy one of the best things to do in Lithuania.

14. Be Amazed at the Museum of Illusions in Vilnius

If you love interactive fun and mind-bending experiences, the best thing to do in Lithuania is visit the Museum of Illusions in Vilnius. This museum is famous for its exhibits that challenge your senses and offer new perspectives on reality. Each display is designed to twist your perception in a unique way.

The Museum of Illusions is perfect for those who enjoy interesting activities, and even kids will love it. You can explore rooms filled with holograms, 3D art, and creative visual tricks. Some exhibits even allow you to participate.

This fun museum flips reality upside down with its optical illusions, classical riddles, lightning-popping Leyden jars, rooms of mirrors, and light shows. This is one of the best things to do in Lithuania for families, couples, or anyone with a curious mind. Don’t forget your camera for capturing this unique experience!

13. Visit the Baroque Pazaislis Monastery and Church in Kaunas

It's always a great idea to spend a day in Kaunas and visit the Pazaislis Monastery and Church. This 17th-century Baroque building is one of the largest and most beautiful in Lithuania. It’s known for its attractive design, detailed carvings, and peaceful setting by the Kaunas Reservoir.

You can explore the grand church, which has Baroque frescoes by Italian painter Michelangelo Palloni. Then, stroll through the monastery gardens with century-old linden trees and views of the reservoir.

In summer, enjoy live classical music concerts at the Pazaislis Music Festival in the monastery’s courtyard. The blend of stunning architecture and cultural events makes visiting Pazaislis Monastery and Church one of the best things to do in Lithuania.

12. Learn Lithuania’s History at the KGB Museum

Visit the KGB Museum in Vilnius on a private tour. This famous site is also known as the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights. Prepare to step into a dark chapter of Lithuania’s history through actual prison cells used during the Soviet era. You’ll discover Lithuania’s struggle for freedom through powerful stories and exhibits.

The experience is intense and unforgettable, offering insight into Lithuania's difficult past. Walk through the old KGB headquarters and view artifacts that tell the stories of resistance fighters. A powerful, chilling exhibition documents the daily struggles of these brave individuals.

Gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s journey to freedom by experiencing one of the best things to do in Lithuania. If you want to learn more about this chapter of history, a walk around Vilnius will reveal more about the Soviet era in Lithuania.

11. Explore Nature in Aukstaitija National Park

Discover the Aukstaitija National Park on a full-day tour. It's a must-visit destination in northeastern Lithuania. Known for its pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic streams, it offers an unforgettable escape into nature. You can hike forest trails, kayak through calm waters, or explore the park’s cycling routes.

With over 100 lakes, including Lake Tauragnas, the deepest in Lithuania, you can enjoy fishing, canoeing, and swimming. You can also visit nearby historic villages like Paluse and explore attractions like the Beekeeping Museum in Stripeikiai.

Spending a day in Aukstaitija National Park is definitely one of the best things to do in Lithuania. Feel free to stay for more if you want to immerse yourself in nature. Go birdwatching, enjoy outdoor activities, or relax at peaceful lakeside spots.

10. Relax in the Spa Town of Druskininkai

Delight in a day of adventure in Druskininkai, an ideal destination in southern Lithuania. Known as an established spa town, it’s famous for its healing mineral springs. You can enjoy treatments like therapeutic baths and massages at renowned spas.

Soaking in mineral pools, enjoying mud baths, or trying detox therapies are among the best things to do in Lithuania's spa town. These treatments are perfect for travelers looking to destress or recover after outdoor activities.

Book accommodation in Druskininkai and indulge in wellness treatments for a relaxing vacation. Energize your body and feel rejuvenated in Lithuania's top spot for self-care.

9. Soar Above Vilnius in a Hot Air Balloon

Experience the thrill of riding a hot air balloon and soaring above Vilnius, Lithuania's capital. This unique adventure offers breathtaking views of the city’s stunning Baroque architecture and rich history. Admire the picturesque streets and lush surroundings as you float gracefully over the famed Vilnius Old Town.

The hot air balloon ride is perfect for travelers who want a unique view of the capital. The experience might feel a bit nerve-wracking at first, especially as you lift off, but you'll be in a peaceful and serene setting once the balloon is in the air.

Flying over Vilnius in a hot air balloon is thrilling and relaxing, and truly, it’s one of the best things to do in Lithuania. Book your flight at sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views, and don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

8. Explore the Port City of Klaipeda

Take a private walking tour around Klaipeda, Lithuania's third-largest city and only seaport. As the gateway to the Baltic Sea, its unique port status and proximity to the Curonian Spit make visiting the city one of the best things to do in Lithuania.

There’s plenty to explore around Klaipeda’s port, such as the Lithuanian Sea Museum, where you can see sea lions and dolphins. The port area also offers scenic views of ships coming and going. Walk along the Dane River promenade, with its cozy cafes and restaurants lining the waterfront.

For the best experience, visit Klaipeda during the summer when the port is at its liveliest. Cruise passengers can spend their time wisely exploring the highlights of Klaipeda and the Curonian Spit on an exciting shore excursion.

7. Visit the Medieval Kaunas Castle

There are a variety of activities to do in Kaunas, and one of the highlights is visiting the historical Kaunas Castle. Built in the 14th century, it served as a fortress to defend against the Teutonic Knights. Inside, you can explore exhibitions that tell the story of the castle.

Next to it, you can stroll through Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park. The park offers peaceful riverside views of the castle, where the Nemunas and Neris rivers meet for a scenic backdrop.

Go beyond the castle for the best things to do in Lithuania by exploring the romantic side of Kaunas on a walking tour and learning the spooky stories of the city's Old Town. Summer is the ideal time to explore, thanks to the pleasant weather.

6. Enjoy the Seaside at Palanga

Another best thing to do in Lithuania is to enjoy a relaxing escape through a wide range of vacation packages in Palanga, the country’s summer capital. Palanga Beach, which stretches 11 miles (18 kilometers) along the sea, is the main attraction of this resort town. It’s the perfect spot for a coastal getaway in Lithuania.

Palanga Beach has soft golden sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun. For something different, you can try paddleboarding or windsurfing. In the evening, walk along the Palanga Pier to watch a beautiful sunset over the Baltic Sea.

For sightseeing, you can easily join a walking tour around different landmarks in Palanga and learn why it’s Lithuania's amber capital. Embark on a private tour of the Palanga Amber Museum, the surrounding Palanga Botanical Park, and the city's historical spots for a memorable trip.

5. Climb Gediminas Tower for Scenic Views

For an amazing experience, visiting the Gediminas Castle Tower with an expert guide near Vilnius Old Town is one of the best things to do in Lithuania. The tower is part of the Vilnius Castle Complex and offers stunning views of the city’s red rooftops and the Vilnia River.

Inside the tower, you can explore exhibits that showcase the models and construction of Vilnius castles across the centuries. You’ll also see Baltic jewelry, military artifacts, and old city images. The second floor features an interactive display comparing historical and modern views of Vilnius.

To reach Gediminas Tower, you can either hike a scenic path or take a funicular for a more leisurely ascent. The surrounding park is perfect for a relaxing break after your visit. For the best experience, visit at sunset when the sun casts a warm glow over the city.

4. Discover Natural Beauty on the Curonian Spit

Explore the unique natural formations of the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit, a narrow strip of land located in western Lithuania. It's one of the best things to do in Lithuania, offering a stunning blend of nature and tranquility. You’ll be amazed by its vast sand dunes, forests, and scenic beaches, particularly near Nida.

One of the cultural highlights of the Curonian Spit is the Hill of Witches in Juodkrante. This enchanting outdoor gallery has over 80 wooden sculptures inspired by Lithuanian folklore. It’s a whimsical experience, full of stories from local myths and legends, adding a magical touch to the natural surroundings.

For the adventurous, you can spend a day exploring the Baltic treasures at the Curonian Spit. Have fun hiking the Parnidis Dune for panoramic views. You can also visit the nearby beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and kitesurfing. With its natural beauty, the Curonian Spit promises a trip like no other.

3. Experience the Spiritual Hill of Crosses

For a unique spiritual experience, go on a day trip to the Hill of Crosses near Siauliai. It’s one of the best things to do in Lithuania, with over 100,000 crosses that symbolize the country’s resilience and faith.

Walk among the crosses and discover legends of ghosts, miracles, and heroic acts of defiance. As you explore the Hill of Crosses, you can leave your own cross and become part of its rich tradition. For those who don’t bring a cross, local vendors sell some onsite.

After that activity, visit the nearby chapel dedicated to Pope John Paul II, which is considered one of the best things to do in Lithuania. The area holds special significance due to the pope’s visit in 1993. The chapel is a beautiful and peaceful place to pray and reflect on the day's events.

2. Visit the Iconic Trakai Island Castle

If you’re looking for a fairytale-like destination, the best thing to do in Lithuania is to take a private tour of Trakai Island Castle from Vilnius. Located on Lake Galves, the castle is surrounded by water and features majestic towers, stone walls, and a picturesque setting.

Inside the castle, you can explore a collection of armor, coins, valuable paintings, and household utensils from the medieval period. On sunny days, renting a boat or kayak to glide through the clear waters of Lake Galve is a relaxing way to enjoy the surroundings.

If you prefer to stay on land, there are scenic walking paths that wind around the shores. These trails offer beautiful views and are ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes. Visiting the iconic Trakai Island Castle is indeed one of the best things to do in Lithuania.

1. Explore the Historic Vilnius Old Town

Finally, for the top spot, discover Vilnius Old Town on a self-guided audio tour and learn why it’s the best thing to do in Lithuania! Well, for one, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's home to the largest Baroque Old Town in Eastern and Central Europe.

Aside from Baroque buildings, the streets are filled with Gothic and Renaissance architecture, featuring pointed arches, intricate carvings, and detailed facades. Iconic landmarks such as St. Anne’s Church and the Gates of Dawn are just a few of the highlights.

The Old Town is rich in history and stunning architecture, but the wider city has even more to offer. Explore the mesmerizing streets of Vilnius on a walking tour and be amazed by its attractions and beauty. Marvel at the artsy Uzupis neighborhood, savor local cuisine at Paupys Market, and enjoy the natural surroundings of Vingis Park.