Lithuania is a land of forests, lakes and medieval charm. Vilnius, the capital, is full of narrow cobbled streets, Baroque churches and hidden courtyards. Gediminas Tower overlooks the city from its hill, offering panoramic views. Kaunas blends history with modern energy. Its old town is lined with Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Filled with street art, cafes and lively squares give it a youthful vibe.
The countryside is dotted with serene lakes, rolling hills and pine forests. Trakai Castle rises from the waters of Lake Galvė, a striking medieval fortress surrounded by small fishing villages. The Curonian Spit stretches along the Baltic Sea with golden sand dunes, quiet beaches and forests. Aukštaitija National Park offers crystal-clear lakes and hiking trails through ancient woods. The hill forts of Kernavė reveal Lithuania’s early history.
Traditional crafts, amber jewelry, folk festivals and wooden crosses reflect deep-rooted traditions. Food markets serve rye bread, smoked fish and hearty local dishes. You can explore historic towns, cycle along scenic routes or relax by peaceful lakes. Lithuania is a country full of surprises, rich in history and alive with natural beauty.
Lithuania in a nutshell
- Population 2.8 million people (2023)
- Capital Vilnius
- Citizens are Lithuanian
- Native language is Lithuanian
- Local currency Euro
- Size 65.300 km²
The Big Four
Fun Facts
- Lord of Amber Lithuania is known as the “Amber Country.” Its Baltic amber has been collected, traded and crafted into jewelry for thousands of years. The coastal town of Palanga hosts an amber museum and annual fairs.
- Basketball Nation Lithuania has a strong basketball culture and is considered one of the best basketball nations in the world, with the sport often described as the country’s "second religion." They have won multiple European and World Championships.
- Oldest
- Hill of Crosses Near Šiauliai, the Hill of Crosses is covered with over 100,000 crosses, left by pilgrims over centuries. It symbolizes peaceful resistance and national identity during foreign occupations.
- Largest medieval town Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, filled with Baroque architecture and narrow winding streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical preservation and cultural vibrancy.
Explore the regions
Lithuania's history
The region was first settled by Baltic tribes, whose wooden forts and sacred groves marked early communities. In the 13th century, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania emerged as a powerful state, stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. It became one of Europe’s largest and most influential kingdoms under rulers like Gediminas and Vytautas the Great.
In 1386, Lithuania formed a union with Poland through the marriage of Grand Duke Jogaila and Queen Jadwiga, creating the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Vilnius became a major center of learning, art and trade.
Lithuania faced invasions in the 18th century and the eventual partitions of the Commonwealth, which placed it under Russian rule. In the 19th century, Lithuanians preserved their language, traditions and folk culture despite pressures of Russification.
In 1918, Lithuania declared independence. After decades of struggle, the country restored its independence in 1990, becoming the first Baltic state to break free from Soviet rule. Lithuania honors its history in castles, hill forts and cobbled towns while embracing a vibrant Baltic identity.