With its festive Christmas markets, rich history, and ample nature to explore, Lithuania makes for an ideal winter destination in Europe. From lively capital cities like Vilnius to quaint seaside towns dotted along the Baltic coastline, there are plenty of cool things to experience in Lithuania once the snow starts falling. Here are five of the best activities to add to your winter itinerary.
Visit Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius Old Town is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Lithuania’s vibrant capital. Many of the winding cobbled streets and pastel-colored buildings date back to the 16th century, earning Vilnius Old Town a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage site listing. Walk along these atmospheric medieval lanes, passing impressive churches like Vilnius Cathedral and St. Anne’s Church, before climbing the steep steps to Gediminas Tower for scenic views over red-tiled rooftops. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, refuel at one of the many excellent restaurants and cafés around the Town Hall Square area. Just click here to find out if you need a Schengen visa prior to booking your flight!
Marvel at Trakai Island Castle
Just a short drive from Vilnius lies the exceptionally photogenic Trakai Island Castle, constructed way back in the 14th century. While summer draws more visitors, wintertime still sees its fair share of travelers venturing out to admire this magnificent castle from the banks of Lake Galvė. Spanning several small islands connected by wooden footbridges, Trakai Castle cuts an impressive figure with its triangular red-brick towers and turreted fortifications rising straight out of the icy water. When the lake freezes over in winter, hardy locals and tourists alike strap on their ice skates or go for brisk walks along the thick ice for unique views of the fortress walls.
Soak in Druskininkai’s Spa Town Ambience
Nicknamed the “Pearl of Lithuania,” Druskininkai dazzles visitors with its relaxing spa town surroundings, upscale hotels, and emerald stretch of the Nemunas River. Wander through this quaint little resort and discover an array of intriguing sculptures like a giant grasshopper and rotating figurines acting out the 12 months of the year. Let your stresses melt away inside one of Druskininkai’s many mineral-rich wellness centers before warming up in a cozy riverside café. From late January through February, the town also hosts an entertaining Snow Arena festival featuring ice sculptures, music, sports events, and more wintry fun.
See Klaipeda’s German History
Situated along the coast in western Lithuania, the port city of Klaipeda reveals an unexpected glimpse into the country’s German past through its Teutonic architecture and seasonal cultural events. Take a sightseeing cruise around frozen Klaipeda harbor or bundle up for a wintry walking tour of the atmospheric Old Town streets lined by centuries-old German-style buildings. Time your visit for late winter to experience unique local takes on German Carnival, including costume parades, concerts, masked balls, and traditional feasts.
Explore Curonian Spit National Park
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional natural beauty, Curonian Spit National Park stretches along a thin sandy strip of land between the Curonian Lagoon and Baltic Sea. The park protects unique aquatic warbler habitats along with pine forests, peaceful beaches, and the largest traveling sand dunes in Europe. From birdwatching to beachcombing and everything in between, Curonian Spit offers a bounty of eco-friendly outdoor activities for winter visitors. Or take to the frozen Curonian Lagoon by boat, ice sail, or even hot air balloon for phenomenal aerial perspectives over this slender peninsula’s captivating winter landscape.
With atmospheric old towns, striking castles, rejuvenating wellness retreats, rich cultural traditions, and stunning natural scenery, Lithuania promises an unforgettable European winter escape. So, pack your warmest layers and get ready for a magical season embracing all the festive feels, frosty adventures, and holiday magic this wonderful country has to offer.
