Information about Lithuania

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Lithuania

Lithuania is the southernmost of the three Baltic nations, and it stands out as the largest and most densely populated of the group. When you look at its position on the map, it shares borders with Latvia to the north and Belarus to the east and south. To the west, it meets the cool waters of the Baltic Sea, while Poland sits to its southwest. The land here is a beautiful mix of rolling hills, thick forests, and a countless number of rivers and quiet lakes.

Most of the country is quite low-lying, which makes it perfect for farming. In fact, agricultural land is considered the nation’s most valuable natural resource. You won't find any massive mountains here, as the highest point, Kruopine Hill, only reaches about 300 meters above the sea. This means the landscape is mostly horizontal and peaceful, offering wide-open views of the countryside.

The plant life across the country is divided into three main zones that give the land its character. Along the coast, you will find stunning pine forests and hardy plants that manage to thrive on the shifting sand dunes. These coastal areas have a very different feel compared to the lush, green interior of the country. It is a place where the air smells of salt and pine needles.

Water is a huge part of the Lithuanian identity, with more than 700 rivers and streams winding through the territory. The Nemunas is the longest and most famous of them all, and it used to be a vital path for ships traveling through the region. If you take a boat trip along its banks today, you will see many old castles and forts. These stone structures were built long ago to protect the land and monitor the busy trade routes.

The country is split into four distinct ethnographic regions that each have their own flavor. Aukstaitija is the highland area in the northeast, known for its many lakes and hills. Zemaitija covers the lowlands in the west, reaching from the sea to the Nevezis River. Then you have Dzukia in the southeast, which is famous for its woods, and Suvalkija in the west, known for its fertile fields.

Lithuania is also lucky to have plenty of natural materials like dolomite, clay, and quartz sand buried in the ground. These are used to make high-quality glass and ceramics that the country is known for. However, the most famous treasure is amber, or what the locals call gintaras. This "Baltic gold" is often found on the shores of the sea and the Curonian Lagoon, especially after a storm.

Vilnius, the capital, is located in the southeastern part of the country where the Neris and Vilnia rivers meet. It is a city that blends history with a very modern way of life. Originally, the land was home to various Baltic tribes who were eventually brought together by Mindaugas in 1236. He was the first king of Lithuania and helped the nation grow into a massive power.

By the end of the 14th century, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania had expanded so much that it was actually the largest country in Europe. In 1385, it joined forces with Poland, and the kingdom reached its peak size and influence under the famous ruler Vytautas the Great. This alliance lasted for centuries until the kingdom was eventually divided by neighboring powers in 1795.

The road to modern independence was long and often very difficult for the people living here. After the First World War, the country managed to become independent again, but it was later taken over by the Soviet Union during World War II. It took until 1990 for the nation to finally break free and declare its independence once more. Since 2004, it has been a proud member of the European Union.

Regions and resorts Lithuania

Nature Lithuania

Lithuania is a genuinely beautiful country that feels incredibly green no matter where you go. It is home to a massive variety of plants and animals that thrive in its clean environment. The most striking part of the natural landscape is definitely the thick, deep forests. These woodlands cover nearly 28 percent of the entire country, creating a massive natural playground for wildlife.

When you walk through these forests, you will mostly see pine and spruce trees, along with plenty of birch groves. There are also many other beautiful trees like alder, ash, and oak scattered throughout the woods. Sometimes these trees grow in their own large groups, while other times they are mixed together in a colorful jumble. Along the lakes and rivers, you can find unique plants like horsetail and various types of tall grasses.

The oak tree holds a very special place in the hearts of the local people as a symbol of strength and endurance. Even though oak forests only make up about 2 percent of the woodland area, they are highly respected. One specific tree, the Stelmuze Oak, is famous for being the thickest in the country and one of the oldest in Europe. It is estimated to be around 1500 years old and stands as a living monument to history.

The forests are also incredibly tall in some places, like the massive 150-year-old larch that reaches 46 meters into the sky. Locals love heading into these woods during the warmer months to go foraging. It is a popular tradition to gather wild mushrooms and baskets full of berries. You can find everything from sweet wild strawberries and raspberries to tart cranberries and blueberries.

To keep all this beauty safe, the country has established five large national parks and many smaller nature reserves. The most famous one is likely the Curonian Spit, which is a very narrow strip of land between the sea and the lagoon. It features massive sand dunes that look like a desert, right next to cool pine forests and sandy beaches. It is a truly unique environment that you won't find anywhere else.

Right now, there are about 250,000 large wild animals living across the Lithuanian countryside. The most common ones you might spot are roe deer, which seem to be everywhere, followed by wild boars. If you are lucky, you might also see larger animals like red deer or the massive moose. These giants of the forest are impressive to see in person, especially when they move silently through the trees.

Predators also call these forests home, with foxes and wolves being the most common hunters. Much rarer are the lynx, which are very shy and hard to find in the wild. The country also has a healthy population of around 2000 otters living near the water. Other animals you might encounter include rabbits, badgers, and even raccoon dogs that hide in the thick undergrowth.

The many lakes and streams are teeming with life, full of fish like perch, pike, and bream. Out in the Baltic Sea, the waters are home to different species like flounder, cod, and even salmon. It is a paradise for people who enjoy fishing or just watching the water. The variety of life beneath the surface is just as impressive as what you see on the land.

Bird watchers will find plenty to keep them busy here as well, with huge flocks of geese and swans passing through. You can also hear the songs of many different woodland birds and occasionally spot a rare European woodpecker. However, the most iconic bird is the white stork, which is the national bird of Lithuania. You will often see them nesting on top of poles or old chimneys near farms and roads.

Climate Lithuania

Because Lithuania is a mostly flat country sitting right on the Baltic Sea, its climate is what experts call semi-continental. This basically means that the winters get quite cold and the summers stay fairly mild and pleasant. On the coast, the weather is tempered by the sea, so it doesn't get quite as extreme as it does further inland. In the middle of winter, the coastal temperatures usually hover just below freezing.

Inland areas experience a bit more of a contrast, with colder winters and slightly warmer summer days. During the winter months, the days get very short and dark, which can feel a bit gloomy. It is very common for the temperature to stay below zero for weeks at a time. Snowfall happens pretty often, though it usually comes in light, steady dustings rather than massive blizzards.

The weather can change very quickly depending on which way the wind is blowing. When air comes in from the Atlantic Ocean, things tend to warm up and the snow might even start to melt. However, if the wind shifts and starts blowing from the direction of Russia, the temperature can plummet. It is not unusual for it to drop to minus 20 or even minus 30 degrees during a really harsh cold snap.

Once spring arrives, the temperatures start to climb back up, though it happens very slowly. April can still feel quite chilly, and it is not uncommon to see a bit of late-season snow or frost in the mornings. However, by the end of the month, you usually get the first few days of real warmth. By the time mid-May rolls around, the weather finally feels consistently nice and comfortable.

Summer lasts from June through August and is generally the most popular time for people to be outside. The days are incredibly long, giving you plenty of light even late into the evening. Temperatures on the coast stay around 20 degrees, while inland it can get a bit warmer, reaching the mid-twenties. It is a great time for hiking or visiting the beach, though you should always be ready for a bit of rain.

Even though the summer is warm, it is actually one of the rainier seasons in this part of the world. Showers can pop up out of nowhere, but they usually don't last long enough to ruin the whole day. People generally enjoy the humidity because it keeps the forests looking lush and green. It is the perfect weather for the wild berries and mushrooms to grow in the woods.

When autumn starts in September, the air is still quite pleasant and the leaves begin to change color. By October, however, the sky tends to get a lot cloudier and the rain becomes more frequent. The temperature starts to drop steadily as the weeks go by. It is usually around late October or November when people see the first snowflakes of the year, signaling that winter is on its way.

If you are planning a trip, the best time to visit is definitely during the summer months. From June to August, you get the best chance of having warm, sunny weather for exploring. If you actually prefer the look of a snowy winter wonderland, February is a better choice than December. By then, the days have started to get a bit longer, so you have more light to enjoy the scenery.

Transport in Lithuania

Getting around Lithuania is actually quite easy because there are good bus and train connections between almost all the towns. Whether you are heading to a major city or a tiny village, you can usually find a way to get there. The public transport system is very well-organized and reliable for both locals and travelers. It makes exploring the country a lot less stressful than you might expect.

In the bigger cities like Vilnius and Kaunas, you will find a busy network of buses and trolleybuses. These run frequently and can take you almost anywhere you need to go within the city limits. Smaller towns usually just have a standard bus service since they don't need trolleybuses. You won't find any subway systems or local city trains here, as the buses do a great job on their own.

When it comes to buying tickets for city transport, you have a couple of options. You can stop at a small street kiosk to get them ahead of time, which is usually a bit cheaper. If you are in a rush, you can also just buy a ticket directly from the driver when you hop on. Some cities also have private minibuses that follow specific routes and are very convenient for quick trips.

Trains are another great way to travel, though they don't run as often as the buses do. The main rail network, Litrail, connects most of the major hubs across the country. For example, you can easily take a train from the capital to Kaunas or all the way to the coast in Klaipeda. There are also international lines that can take you to places like Warsaw if you want to keep traveling.

Taxis are plentiful in the big cities and can be a very convenient way to get around quickly. However, they can get a bit expensive if you just hail one on the street, especially late at night. Many people now prefer to use ride-sharing apps, which are very popular in Vilnius. These apps let you see the price before you even get in the car, so there are no surprises.

If you really want to have total freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a fantastic idea. You can find rental offices in all the major cities and at the airports. The roads in Lithuania are generally in very good condition and are easy to navigate. It is a great way to find hidden spots in the countryside that the buses might not reach.

While you won't find water taxis for getting around town, you can certainly arrive in the country by sea. Large ferries connect the port city of Klaipeda with several different countries like Germany and Sweden. It is a very scenic way to start a trip, especially when you see the coastline appearing on the horizon. Most people who travel this way bring their own cars along on the ferry.

The country has three main airports, with the largest one being located just outside of Vilnius. It is very close to the city center, only about 4 kilometers away, and is linked by frequent bus and train services. Even though there are three passenger airports in different parts of the country, there aren't any domestic flights. Since the country isn't huge, it is much faster and easier to just drive or take a bus.

Money and shopping in Lithuania

Back in early 2015, Lithuania officially joined the eurozone, which means the currency used everywhere is the euro. You will find that ATMs are very common in both big cities and smaller towns. Even if you find yourself in a tiny village, there is a good chance you can find a place to withdraw cash. Most of these machines work perfectly with standard international bank cards.

While you can always swap your cash at a local bank, it is usually much simpler to just use your debit card. Many shops and restaurants in the cities accept cards, but it is always smart to have some cash for smaller markets. Lithuania is a great place for shopping because it offers a mix of big European brands and unique local goods. The prices are often quite reasonable compared to Western Europe.

If you enjoy finding a good deal, you should know that major sales usually happen twice a year, just like in other European countries. For a more authentic experience, you should definitely wander through the old streets of the big cities. You will find plenty of small souvenir shops tucked away in historic buildings. These places are perfect for finding handmade items that you won't see anywhere else.

One of the most popular things to bring home is something made of amber. The locals call it gintaras, and they are very proud of this beautiful stone that comes from the sea. You can find everything from simple necklaces and earrings to complex pieces of art and even amber magnets. It is a timeless gift that really captures the spirit of the Baltic coast.

Ceramics are another big deal here, and the variety is truly impressive. You can find very practical things like bowls and plates, or more decorative items like colorful bells and animal figures. Many people love picking up a traditional beer mug made of heavy clay. These items are often handmade by local artists who have been practicing their craft for years.

Wood carving is a very old tradition in this part of the world, and the skill of the craftsmen is world-class. When you visit a local market, you will see all kinds of wooden spoons, decorative plates, and small statues. These items have a very rustic and warm feel to them. They make for great practical gifts that also look beautiful sitting on a kitchen shelf.

Linen is another high-quality product that the country is famous for. You can find beautiful linen clothing, tablecloths, and bed sheets in many specialty shops. It is a natural fabric that feels very comfortable to wear regardless of the weather. If you are visiting in the winter, you might also want to look for thick wool socks and gloves decorated with traditional patterns.

Food lovers will have a great time exploring the local treats like dark rye bread, honey, and various hard cheeses. One of the most famous sweets is a tall, spikey cake called Sakotis, which is often served at weddings. It has a very unique shape and tastes delicious with a cup of tea. It is a very popular item for tourists to pack in their suitcases before heading home.

Finally, if you are a sports fan, you probably already know that basketball is almost like a religion here. In almost any shopping mall, you can find team jerseys, scarves, and even basketballs signed by famous players. Picking up some basketball gear is a great way to remember your trip to a country that lives and breathes the game. It is a huge part of the local culture and pride.

Main attractions Lithuania

Lithuania is a place where you can find a deep connection with both history and nature at the same time. The country is home to hundreds of parks and dozens of protected reserves that keep the landscape looking fresh and untouched. You can find thousands of lakes scattered across the land, making it a perfect spot for anyone who enjoys being near the water. The historical legacy here stretches back many centuries and gives you a real sense of stepping back into the past.

One of the most impressive spots to visit is the Curonian Spit which is very easy to reach from the city of Klaipeda. A quick boat ride across the water brings you to a place with massive sand dunes that are constantly shifting with the wind. These are actually the largest dunes you can find in this part of Europe and they create a very unique atmosphere. It feels like a completely different world where the sand meets the sea and the pine forests.

The capital city is famous for its Old Town which has earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list for very good reasons. It sits right where two major rivers come together and serves as a beautiful example of how medieval architecture has been preserved. As you walk through the streets you can see a mix of styles like Gothic and Renaissance alongside Neoclassical buildings. It is widely considered one of the best-preserved old towns on the continent today.

There are many landmarks here that you should try to see like the beautiful St. Annes Church and the Presidential Palace. You can also walk through the historic Jewish quarters or climb up to see the Gediminas Tower and the remains of the Upper Castle. These sites date back to the thirteenth century and offer a great view of the surrounding area. The Gates of Dawn and the busy Town Hall Square are also essential stops for anyone visiting the city for the first time.

While you are wandering through the capital you might also want to cross the Green Bridge or visit the historic university grounds. Totoriu Street is another charming spot and the local Amber Gallery shows off some truly beautiful craftsmanship. If you want to see one of the oldest settlements in the country you should head to Kedainiai. This town was founded way back in 1372 and is famous for its elegant Baroque style buildings.

The center of Kedainiai is full of interesting sights including old townhouses and various religious buildings like Protestant and Orthodox churches. There is also a history of synagogues here that adds to the cultural mix of the town. Another very famous site is the Hill of Crosses which is a deeply moving place for many visitors. It is covered in thousands of crosses and images of Christ that have been placed there over many years.

If you are interested in how money works the Money Museum is a great place to stop by. It is located where the national bank used to be and it tells the story of the local currency called the litas. You can also learn about money from all over the world through various interactive exhibits. It is a very hands-on experience that makes learning about finance much more interesting than you might expect.

For those who love the outdoors the Aukstaitija National Park is a real treasure filled with lakes and wild forests. It was the first national park created in the country and represents the best of the local natural resources. You can find traditional villages tucked away in the woods and spend time on the water. Even though there are no high mountains to climb the open spaces and gentle winds make it a great place for active relaxation.

The Baltic coast is the go-to destination if you want to enjoy the beach and go for a swim. Palanga is a very popular resort town that gets quite busy with people looking for summer fun. If you prefer something a bit quieter and more traditional the area of Neringa is a fantastic choice. Whether you are looking for adventure or just a quiet place to sit by the lake the local landscape has plenty to offer.

Tourism in Lithuania

Even though many people think of summer when they plan a trip Lithuania actually has a lot to offer during the colder months too. When the snow starts to fall the landscape turns into a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. You can find several places for downhill skiing and snowboarding with plenty of gear available for rent on site. The ski lifts make it easy to spend the whole day out on the slopes enjoying the fresh air.

If you are looking for something a bit faster you might enjoy a snowmobile safari. These trips take you through beautiful snowy trails in the deep forests and even across the surface of frozen lakes. Many of these adventures start quite close to the capital city of Vilnius so you do not have to travel far. It is a thrilling way to see the countryside when it is covered in a thick blanket of white snow.

For those who want to see the land from a different perspective there are opportunities to go flying over some of the most scenic areas. Hot air ballooning is a very popular activity here and it offers a peaceful way to look down at the forests and lakes. If you want more of an adrenaline rush you can try paragliding in a tandem setup with a professional instructor. They even offer short extreme flights if you want to experience some acrobatic moves in the air.

The country also hosts various marathons and half-marathons throughout the year for people who love to run. If you are into water sports the Curonian Lagoon is a fantastic place for kitesurfing because of the steady winds. There are also sailing regattas that take place on the larger bodies of water during the warmer months. For the truly brave there are even spots where you can try jumping off bridges with professional safety equipment.

There are some very unique experiences available like having dinner high up in the sky or going on a night hike through the marshlands. These night treks through the bogs are a great way to see a side of nature that most people never get to experience. If you prefer staying on solid ground you can take a bicycle trip to visit the old hill forts. There are many well-marked hiking trails that lead you to unexpected and beautiful spots in the countryside.

During the summer months the long coastline and the numerous inland lakes become the center of all activity. You can find plenty of places to go kayaking or canoeing even if you are staying right in the middle of Vilnius. The rivers flowing through the city provide a great route for a relaxing afternoon on the water. Many locals also enjoy windsurfing and diving in the clear waters of the regional lakes.

If you like more speed you can hop on a jet ski and explore the vast stretches of blue water. The country is incredibly well-suited for water-based recreation because there is so much water everywhere you look. Whether you are on a quiet river or the open sea there is always a way to get active. Most people find that a mix of different activities makes their trip much more memorable and exciting.

The local climate allows for a wide range of outdoor hobbies that change with the seasons. In the spring and autumn the forests are perfect for long walks or bird watching. The transition between seasons brings different colors to the trees and different moods to the lakes. It is the kind of place where you can always find something to do regardless of the weather outside.

Taking part in these activities is also a great way to meet local people who share the same interests. Whether you are at a ski resort or a kiteboarding school the atmosphere is usually very friendly and welcoming. You will likely leave with some great stories and perhaps a few new skills. Lithuania really knows how to make the most of its natural landscape for both locals and visitors alike.

Accommodation in Lithuania

One of the things that people love most about visiting this country is the chance to engage in eco-tourism. There are thirty-five different national and regional parks that offer a huge amount of value for anyone who loves nature. You can spend your days walking through quiet forests or cycling along paths that wind through the countryside. Many visitors also enjoy taking small boats out onto the rivers and lakes to see the landscape from the water.

Fishing is another huge draw for nature lovers and is considered one of the best ways to relax here. Since the region is absolutely packed with rivers and lakes there are endless spots to cast a line. You can find a wide variety of fish like pike and perch or even salmon and carp depending on where you go. It is a very peaceful way to spend an afternoon and is a big part of the local ecological tourism scene.

When it comes to finding a place to stay you will find plenty of options that fit just about any budget. There are high-end five-star hotels in the bigger cities and simpler guesthouses in the smaller towns. You can also find farmhouses where you can experience a bit of rural life or stay in a hostel if you are looking to save money. For those who really want to be close to nature there are many well-maintained campsites available.

If you are heading to the coast you will find some great beach hotels that put you right next to the sand. Imagine waking up in a spacious room and looking out the window to see the waves of the Baltic Sea. These places are perfect for enjoying the cool evening breeze after a day spent in the sun. The seaside atmosphere is very relaxing and many people come here just to recharge their batteries.

Resort towns are another excellent choice for your stay because they often have a lot of amenities in one place. Palanga has the largest number of hotels but places like Neringa and Druskininkai are also very popular. In recent years there has been a big increase in the number of spa hotels in these towns. These spots usually stay open all year and offer things like saunas and heated pools which are great during the winter.

For a different kind of experience you might want to look into countryside tourism objects. These can range from simple wooden cottages to more sophisticated hotels that are built far away from the noise of the city. They offer a chance to stay in a quiet rural setting while still having access to modern comforts. It is a great way to see the parts of the country that most tourists might skip over.

In the smaller towns that are not considered major resorts you might find that the choices for accommodation are a bit more limited. You might only have one or two local inns to choose from but they often have a very cozy and personal feel. If you are driving long distances you will find motels located along the main highways. These are convenient for a quick overnight stop when you are traveling between the major cities.

Renting an apartment or a house has become one of the most popular ways to stay in the country lately. It is often very affordable and gives you a bit more privacy and space than a standard hotel room. You can often find some really great deals especially if you are staying for more than a couple of nights. Prices can be very reasonable and it allows you to feel a bit more like a local resident.

If you are planning on camping it is a good idea to check the locations in advance because the number of high-standard sites is somewhat small. Most of the best campsites are located near the most beautiful natural landmarks or just outside the big cities. You are usually allowed to pitch a tent near lakes and rivers for a small fee even in national parks. Just keep in mind that these basic spots might not have many facilities so you should come prepared.

Kitchen and dishes Lithuania

Eating well is a big part of the local culture and people here really enjoy their food. Most of the traditional dishes are quite simple and use ingredients that have been grown on local farms for generations. You will see a lot of rye bread and potatoes along with various types of meat and dairy products. Beets and mushrooms are also very common and they add a lot of flavor to the daily meals.

Pork is definitely the most popular choice when it comes to meat although you can also find beef and lamb. If there is one dish you absolutely have to try it is the famous meat-filled potato dumplings known as cepelinai. They are shaped like large zeppelins and are usually served with a heavy helping of sour cream and fried bacon bits. For those who do not eat meat some places offer a version filled with curd cheese instead.

There are other meat dishes that are very popular like the pork steaks known as karbonadas. You might also see shashlik which is meat grilled on skewers and is a favorite during the summer months. The local cuisine also features a lot of different soups that are perfect for any season. The most famous one is a bright pink cold beet soup that is made with kefir and served with hot potatoes on the side.

If you visit during the colder months you might prefer a warm mushroom borscht or a hearty soup made with smoked meats. There is also a lot of focus on dishes made from flour like various types of dumplings with different fillings. Pancakes are another staple and they are often made with grated potatoes rather than just flour. These potato pancakes are usually served with sour cream or apple sauce and are very filling.

Being so close to the sea and having so many lakes means that seafood is also a big part of the diet. Smoked eel is a local delicacy that you can often find near the Curonian Lagoon. Other fish like pike and carp are also very common and are prepared in many different ways. Many people also enjoy marinated herring which is often served with fried onions and a bit of sour cream as an appetizer.

When it comes to drinks beer is by far the most common choice for most people. There is a long tradition of brewing here and many locals take great pride in the quality of their beer. You can find many small craft breweries that make unique styles that you won't find anywhere else. It is often the go-to drink for social gatherings and celebrations with friends and family.

No meal is complete without something sweet and the local desserts are quite impressive. The most famous one is probably the spit cake called sakotis which looks like a tree with many small branches. It is made by painting layers of batter onto a rotating spit over an open fire. Another favorite is a no-bake cake called tinginys which is made from crushed cookies mixed with cocoa and condensed milk.

You can also find delicious poppy seed cakes and many different versions of honey cake that are very popular. The local bakeries are full of various cookies and waffles that go perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. There are also many types of cream cakes that are often served at birthdays and special events. You will definitely not go hungry here if you have a bit of a sweet tooth.

The food culture is very much about sharing and enjoying the company of others. Whether you are at a fancy restaurant or a small village tavern the portions are usually quite generous. It is common to spend a long time at the table talking and enjoying the different flavors. Trying the local food is one of the best ways to understand the history and the spirit of the people who live here.

Culture and traditions Lithuania

The culture in this part of the world is a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and modern influences. One of the most interesting things about it is how elements of old pagan mythology have blended with Christian beliefs over the years. You can still see signs of this heritage in the local folklore and the way people celebrate certain holidays. It gives the country a very distinct identity that is different from its neighbors.

In general you will find that the people here are very polite and have a lot of respect for one another. They tend to be quite calm and are usually very good listeners who will not interrupt you when you are speaking. There is also a deep love for the natural world and people take great care to protect the environment. This respect for nature is something that you can feel whenever you visit the local parks or forests.

Christianity plays a very big role in daily life and the majority of the population identifies as Catholic. You will see many beautiful old churches in every town and city across the country. There is also a smaller percentage of the population that belongs to the Orthodox Church. The official language has very old roots and most people feel a strong ethnic connection to it because of its unique history.

The architecture you see as you travel around reflects the different periods of the countrys history. You can find old forts and grand castles that were built by the nobility hundreds of years ago. On the other hand some of the government buildings and residential blocks have a more functional look from the Soviet era. This mix of old and new creates a very interesting visual landscape in the urban areas.

Art and creativity are very important here and you will find many galleries and workshops in the cities. There is a strong tradition of craftsmanship and many artists are well-known on the international stage. Whether it is painting or sculpture or modern design there is always something interesting to see. Many local artists also hold exhibitions abroad to share their work with a wider audience.

Music is another essential part of life and the country was even known as the land of songs in ancient times. Choral singing is especially popular and you can often hear large groups performing traditional folk songs. There is also a very active jazz scene with several international festivals taking place every year. These events attract fans and musicians from all over the world to cities like Kaunas and Vilnius.

Basketball is much more than just a game here and is often called the second religion of the nation. People are incredibly passionate about the sport and the national team has a long history of success. Ever since winning a major championship in 1937 basketball has been the number one sport in the country. On game nights you can feel the excitement in the air as everyone tunes in to watch the match.

If you want to really get to know the local spirit you should try to attend one of the many festivals. There are events for everything from rock music to traditional food like the smelt festival in Palanga. You can also find film festivals and medieval celebrations that take place in old castle grounds. These events are not just for watching as visitors are usually encouraged to join in the fun and participate.

Whether it is a night of jazz or a traditional folk dance these cultural experiences are very welcoming. They offer a window into the soul of the country and show how proud people are of their heritage. You will find that even in a modern world the old traditions are still very much alive. It is this balance between the past and the present that makes the local culture so special to experience.