Tours in Lithuania
Lithuania inhabited by people of Baltic descent, was once a powerful empire stretching from Baltic Sea to Black Sea. Nowadays, it is known for its fascinating history, beautiful nature and friendly, welcoming people with one of the nicest capitals in Europe - Vilnius which is still undiscovered by mass tourism. There are plenty of other sights than the city, such as national parks abundant with lakes and rivers, the Baltic Sea coast with its gorgeous sand dunes and little charming villages hidden away from the obvious tourist paths. When you visit the Baltics, Lithuania could be the highlight of your trip.
Lithuania could start your Baltic tour. It’s famous baroque heritage can be discovered, not only in Vilnius, but throughout the country. Contemporary Lithuanian culture is world-class - Vilnius was elected as European Capital of Culture in 2009. Catholic country with recent pagan heritage gives a certain exotic flavor to the celebrations. There are all sorts of festivals: from classic, jazz and theatre to folk festivals and marvelous craft fairs.
Lithuania has just about everything to offer to tourists: beautiful, historic cities, romantic castles and manor houses set in a landscape of rolling hills and lakes, an unspoiled coastline, and a wide choice of international and local hotels and restaurants. Last but not least, the price and value will pleasantly surprise you while visiting Lithuania and other Baltic states.
Vilnius - the capital city, has a medieval atmosphere with a blend of many diverse cultures. Its splendid architectural ensemble is unique in Europe which has placed the Old Town of Vilnius on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Close to Vilnius, is the fascinating 15th century Trakai Castle, a magnificent monument to the past glory of medieval Lithuania.
If you are interested in folk history, then a visit to the Open-Air Countryside Museum in Rumsiskes gives a good insight into the way of life of Lithuanian farming traditions and rural architecture in the end of 19th century.
The biggest city after Vilnius to visit is Kaunas, the interim capital between the two World Wars. It has the charm of a bygone epoch mixed with a vibrant, contemporary culture and hosts numerous museums.
However, no visit to Lithuania would be complete without going to the Baltic seacoast. Its premier, seaside resort called Palanga, a beautiful city with a unique Amber Museum, a large botanical park, extensive sand beaches, and many summer festivals and concerts.
Nearby is Neringa National Park, located on the Curonian Spit. The romantic, old fishing villages, the dunes, and the forests of pine trees stunted by sea wind are on a must-see list. And stop by the Hill of Witches to enjoy its folk-art, wooden sculptures created by the folk artists.
One also shouldn’t miss the Hill of Crosses near the city of Siauliai to view a sacred place for expressing gratitude to God.
Definitely make a stop at the forested resort town Druskininkai with its numerous spas, the largest water park in the Baltic area and a home to Grutas Park famous for the Soviet era statuary.
The latest Lithuanian addendum to the UNESCO World Heritage List is the old Lithuanian capital from the 13th century Kernave. It's amazing landscape just 30 km from Vilnius will provide good relaxation for the soul and a history museum that will educate about the fascinating early history of Lithuania. The highlight of Kernave is Festival of Living Archaeology Days - held every year in the beginning of July and is considered to be one of the very few in Europe where prehistoric crafts and arts are recreated for the visitors’ pleasure.
Come visit Lithuania for that rare combination of leisure and excitement. Choose one of the tours in Lithuania or Baltic tour packages that include Lithuania.
