Located in northern Europe, Lithuania is a country rich in history, culture and natural beauty. The Baltic state is bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east and south, Poland to the south and the Baltic Sea to the west. Known for its striking medieval architecture, verdant natural parks and bustling capital Vilnius, Lithuania is a destination that promises discovery and charm at every turn.
Lithuanian culture is deeply influenced by its past, mixing Baltic, Slavic and Western elements. The locals have a deep gratitude for their heritage, which is reflected in their folk music, dance and art. Lithuania is predominantly Roman Catholic, which can be seen in the abundance of churches and the celebration of Christian festivals and saints’ days that color Lithuanian life.
The ethnic cuisine is rich and traditional, featuring dishes such as Cepelinai (potato dumplings), beetroot soup and a variety of rye breads. Lithuanians also produce excellent dairy products and are especially fond of their cheese and curds.
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After arriving in Lithuania, I joined a local tour group, which gave me a comprehensive overview of the country and the opportunity to make new friends. For accommodation, I booked a room through Booking.com at the Artis Centrum Hotels in Vilnius, which I chose because of its good reviews and convenient location.
Day 1: Arrival in Vilnius
- The quaint charm and vibrant energy of Vilnius greeted me the moment I stepped out of the airport. I was immediately drawn to the seamless blend of historic buildings and modern developments. I used the Taxify app to book a comfortable taxi to the Artis Centrum Hotels, enjoying the city views on the way.
- After I checked into the hotel, I did a quick freshen up and met and greeted my tour group in the hotel lobby. This is a group of enthusiastic travelers from all over the world and there is excitement in the air.
- The highlight of the first day is dinner at Etno Dvaras, one of the famous traditional restaurants in Vilnius. We sampled the Cepelinai, delicious potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat, cheese or mushrooms. The flavor combinations of Lithuanian cuisine are exquisite and unique. Beetroot soup is another classic Lithuanian dish, with its sweet and tangy flavors in contrast.
- After dinner, we strolled leisurely in the bustling Pierres Street, feeling the lively atmosphere, admiring local handicrafts and exchanging stories. As the day ends, I look forward to the days ahead.
Day 2: Explore Vilnius
- Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel the next day. We then embarked on a guided tour of Vilnius with our knowledgeable local guide. We start at Vilnius Cathedral, a breathtaking architectural marvel that bears witness to the city’s historic splendor. The stunning interior left us all speechless.
- Next, we climbed to the top of Gediminas’ Tower, the only remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius. The panoramic views of the city from the top are breathtaking and provide perfect photo opportunities.
- After a morning full of history, it’s time for lunch at Lokys. The star of our meal was the Kibinai, a puff pastry stuffed with lamb and onions. Crunchy pastries with savory fillings create a delightful culinary experience.
- After lunch, we strolled through the narrow cobbled alleys of the old town, admiring the timeless charm and architectural diversity. We ended the day with a visit to the Uzupis district, Vilnius’ artistic and bohemian heart, full of art installations, quirky shops and cozy cafés.
Day 3: Trakai tour
- On the third day, we ventured to Trakai, a peaceful lake resort town known for its historic castle and beautiful scenery. Our day begins with a visit to the picturesque Trakai Island Castle. This well-preserved 14th-century fortress stands majestically in the middle of Lake Galvi, its red brick walls contrasting with the blue water.
- We had a lakeside lunch in Kybynlar after the castle visit. We sampled Kybyn, a Karaite dish similar to Kibinai. It is a serene and satisfying experience to enjoy local cuisine while admiring the serene lake view.
- The rest of the afternoon is spent wandering the charming streets of Trakai, shopping for unique souvenirs such as Karaim kėkės (traditional Karaite pastries) and Lithuanian amber jewelry.
- As we returned to Vilnius in the evening, our favorite moments of the day were shared, and I was filled with gratitude for the memorable experiences and new friends we made on this trip.
Looking back on my trip, I can say that my three days in Lithuania were filled with rich experiences. Lithuania is a country that values history and tradition while embracing modernity, and this is reflected in everything from its architecture to its cuisine.
I am very impressed with the hospitality of Lithuanians. The locals are warm and friendly, ready to share their culture and stories. Group tours are a great platform to meet new people and share experiences, adding to the fun of traveling.
My trip to Lithuania was a fascinating journey through a country with a perfect mix of old and new. The stunning sights, tantalizing flavors, and friendships formed made this trip one of my most memorable. I highly recommend a trip to Lithuania to experience its culture, taste its cuisine and soak up its history.
As I wrap up this travelogue, I can confidently say that I am looking forward to returning to Lithuania to further explore its hidden gems and delve deeper into its rich culture and traditions. Lithuania, with its stunning landscapes and hospitable people, is etched in my heart and is a destination I eagerly look forward to returning to.
