When most travelers think of Lithuania, the capital city, Vilnius, immediately comes to mind with its charming Old Town and vibrant culture. But beyond Vilnius, Lithuania hides an abundance of treasures waiting to be explored. If you’re planning your trip with a Lithuania visa, consider venturing further to discover breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, serene coastal towns, and unique cultural sites that showcase the country’s rich heritage. This guide takes you on a journey to some of Lithuania’s hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable.

Trakai: A Fairytale Castle on Water

Trakai, a beautiful town located just 30 kilometers away from Vilnius, is famous due to its beautiful Island Castle. The red-brick fortress, which is surrounded by the calm waters of Lake Galvė, seems to have been taken out of a fairytale. Visitors may visit the museum located in the castle, hire a kayak and paddle across the lake or sample the Karaim cuisine that is unique to the area. Trakai is a perfect day trip from the capital, but spending a night here lets you soak in the tranquil atmosphere after the day crowds disappear.

Klaipėda: Lithuania’s Coastal Gateway

Klaipeda is the destination of choice for travelers wishing to explore the seaside beauty of Lithuania. This is a port city on the Baltic Sea and a blend of maritime tradition and contemporary culture. Explore the Old Town with its cobblestone streets flanked by timber-framed houses, or attend the Sea Festival in the summer. Klaipeda is also the entry point to the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with otherworldly dunes and pristine beaches. The Curonian Spit is ideal for cycling, hiking or just getting away and relaxing, and it is a side of Lithuania that very few visitors get to see.

Kaunas: The Soul of Lithuanian Culture

Kaunas is a city that should not be dismissed, as Vilnius is frequently the center of attention. Kaunas is known as the temporary capital during the interwar years, and is home to art deco architecture, interesting museums and a vibrant cafe culture. The city was the European Capital of Culture in 2022, and the creative spirit is still alive. Don’t miss a stroll along Laisvės Alėja, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Hill of Crosses: A Spiritual Landmark

Perhaps one of the unique and mysterious sites in Lithuania is the Hill of Crosses, near Šiauliai. Thousands of crosses, crucifixes, and religious symbols fill the hill, placed there by pilgrims for centuries. It is both a spiritual and cultural monument which represents strength and faith in the history of Lithuania. The atmosphere here is touching, and regardless of whether you are religious or not, it is something worth experiencing.

Druskininkai: A Wellness Retreat

If relaxation is part of your travel plan, Druskininkai is the ultimate destination. This spa town in southern Lithuania is famous due to its mineral waters, therapeutic mud baths, and modern wellness centers. The city is also a year-round destination with Snow Arena being one of the largest indoor skiing slopes in Europe in the winter.

Aukštaitija National Park: Nature at Its Best

For nature lovers, Lithuania offers more than cities and history. The oldest national park in the country, the Aukštaitija National Park, is a paradise of lakes and forests, as well as wooden villages. Tourists are offered to have fun by kayaking along the linked lakes, hiking on the beautiful trails, or visiting ancient ethnographic villages where traditions have been maintained. This is the best escape in case you want to feel the life of the Lithuanian countryside.

Lithuania Schengen Visa Simplified: Travel with Ease

Exploring these hidden gems becomes effortless with the right travel documents. The Lithuania Schengen visa simplified process makes it easy for travelers to explore not just Lithuania but also other Schengen countries. With a little planning, you can experience Lithuanian treasures as well as those of adjacent destinations and have a truly enriching European experience.

Conclusion: Plan Your Journey Beyond Vilnius

Lithuania is more than just its capital—it’s a country filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you are interested in the medieval magic of Trakai and the coastal beauty of Klaipeda, the cultural riches of Kaunas and the natural wonders of its national parks, you will find something here to suit your type of traveler. When you are ready to discover these less-popular destinations, don’t delay. Start your journey today with quick approval for the Lithuania visa process and uncover the best that Lithuania has to offer beyond Vilnius.