Baltic road trip – very best the Baltics have to offer

Vilnius

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and home to world-famous, age-old architecture, UNESCO old town and rich cultural heritage. It’s also one of the greenest cities in Europe, hosting an abundance of green zones that’s unusual for capitals. Getting to know Vilnius starts by visiting its heart, the Vilnius Cathedral (Vilniaus arkikatedra), and climbing the nearby Gediminas Castle Tower (Gedimino pilies bokštas). The picturesque Pilies street (Pilies gatvė) is a great spot for lunch; keep an eye out for the House of Signatories (Signatarų namai), the birthplace of the Lithuanian Independence Act of 1918. The Užupis Republic (Užupio Respublika) – an artists’ quarter that has its own President, Constitution, and anthem – is just a couple of steps away. After wandering through its cosy streets, head to a museum of your choice to discover Lithuania’s fascinating history, and end the day with dinner at the Vilnius TV Tower (Vilniaus TV bokštas), the tallest construction in the country.

Trakai

When in Lithuania, a visit to Trakai, the country’s historical capital, is a must. A place particularly popular with tourists, Trakai can be easily reached by car, bus or train. Start your visit with the highlight of the town, the medieval Trakai Castle (Trakų pilis), standing on an island in Lake Galvė (Galvės ežeras). The residence of Lithuania’s Grand Dukes back in the 15th century, today it’s a spectacular venue for concerts, exhibitions and plays. After a tour of the castle, spend some time on a pedalo, boat, yacht or paddleboard on Lake Galvė to take in the views of the Trakai townscape. Across the lake stands the neoclassical Užutrakis Manor (Užutrakio dvaras), whose impressive French-style park is a great spot to take postcard-worthy pictures. Before you head home, don’t miss the chance to try the savoury Karaite pastry, kibinas!

Kaunas

For seekers of culture, history and creative experiences, Kaunas is a one-stop-shop. The second-largest Lithuanian city, European capital of culture 2022, is the perfect place to find inspiration. Kaunas is also to become UNESCO heritage site for its modernism architecture. To get your creative fix, add some sites of impressive street art and modernist architecture to the itinerary of your walking tour, and don’t forget to see the historic old town, authentic Art Deco flat, the world’s only Devil’s Museum (Velnių muziejus), and Lithuania’s oldest stone castle, the Kaunas Castle (Kauno pilis). Those inspired by historical sites should visit the M. K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art (Nacionalinis M. K. Čiurlionio dailės muziejus) to admire the genius of Lithuania’s greatest artist, and the Ninth Fort (Kauno IX fortas), a witness to the country’s tumultuous history. The Pažaislis Monastery (Pažaislio vienuolynas), one of the finest Baroque gems in Northern Europe, is another inspiring place and a well-loved filming location. For some relaxation, take a walk along the waterfront of the nearby Kaunas Lagoon (Kauno marios). Wherever you go, you’ll experience the creative spirit of the city – as the locals say, Kaunas makes you feel #kaunastic!

The Curonian Spit

The Curonian Spit (Kuršių nerija) is a unique result of the interaction between man and nature. This narrow sandy peninsula is loved not only by locals and tourists, but also by migratory birds that pass over the Spit twice a year. In 2000, the Curonian Spit became a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its unique natural and cultural features. This corner of Lithuania, often called the Baltic Sahara, is a true paradise for holidaymakers –majestic dunes and serene pine forests hide plenty of oases to relax in. Climb up the Nida Lighthouse (Nidos švyturys) for some amazing panoramas and visit the Nagliai Nature Reserve (Naglių gamtos rezervatas) for the striking landscape of the Dead Dunes. For foodies, trying locally caught and smoked fish is a must-try.

Klaipėda

Lithuania’s only port, Klaipėda is the country‘s gateway to the Baltic Sea. It‘s also a city with a fascinating past – Klaipėda was part of Germany for quite some time, so the city’s Old Town is unlike any other in Lithuania. The German influences are evident in Klaipėda’s architecture – red brick walls and clean, pointy roof forms. Among the city’s highlights is the Lithuanian Sea Museum (Lietuvos jūrų muziejus), where you can discover the secrets of the underwater world in carefully curated displays and enjoy daily dolphin performances during the summer.

The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses (Kryžių kalnas) is undoubtedly the most mysterious place in the Baltics. Standing near the city of Šiauliai in northern Lithuania, the Hill hosts hundreds of thousands of crosses left by pilgrims. Desecrated but never destroyed, set on fire but never burned down, the Hill of Crosses is a potent symbol of faith, hope, and freedom. In 1993, Pope John Paul II prayed at the Hill, and continued to talk about this sacred place in his sermons and speeches. The Hill of Crosses represents cross-crafting tradition which is UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This place has a particular aura that invites travellers to think about their wishes, fears, hopes and dreams.

Rundale

Latvia is home to many palaces and manors, with Rundale Palace being one of the most spectacular. It is a masterpiece and an outstanding example of Baroque and Rococo architecture and one of the top places to visit in summer when roses in the garden near the palace are blooming and reaching for the sun. You can explore the palace, visit the palace museum and stroll through its gardens. Reserve at least a couple of hours for this magical place to experience it to the fullest.

Riga

Riga is a blend of timeless charm and cutting edge cool. Stroll through Riga Old Town, see its magnificent churches, such architectural masterpieces as the House of Blackheads or St. Peter’s Church, and taste some delicious food in one of the many Old Town cafes. Don’t forget to look up once in a while, as there are over 800 spectacular Art Nouveau buildings throughout the city, with the greatest concentration on Alberta Street. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre, head to the Open Air Ethnographic Museum or the Riga Zoo on the banks of lake Kisezers.

Jurmala

Jurmala is a resort town by the Baltic Sea, where sunsets are nothing but romantic. One of the town’s main attractions is its beaches, but there’s more to Jurmala than the sandy strip! For example, it is home to one of the largest historical wooden architecture ensembles in Latvia. If you are looking for some shopping and modern cafes to entertain your taste buds, the pedestrian-only Jomas Street is for you. Nature lovers will enjoy the 24 kilometres of white sand beaches and nature trails like the Kemeri Bog trail, which leads into a swamp landscape untouched by civilization.

Gauja National Park

As the biggest national park in Latvia, Gauja National Park offers to dive deep in the open arms of nature and enjoy natural springs, sandstone outcrops, picturesque views and fascinating nature trails. There are also two worth-visiting cities on the territory of Gauja National Park – Sigulda and Cesis. In Sigulda, you can fly in the wind tunnel at Aerodium, visit the Sigulda Castle Quarter, go down the bobsleigh track, and if that’s not extreme enough for you, you can bungee jump from a cable car above the River Gauja. In Cesis, home to one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Baltics, you’ll find a vibrant restaurant scene in a historical environment. You can also visit the Araisi Archaeological Park near Cesis, where you will find a reconstructed wooden lake castle.

Pärnu

If you are looking for a town that’s equally cute and chill, the seaside town of Pärnu is the place to be! A leafy summer capital with surf vibes that will definitely help you take off some of your urban stress. Start with hopping on a bike and getting a feel of the coastline, plentiful parks and cafes, and characteristic wooden architecture. Then stop for a stroll of the tiny Hanseatic old town (you can also go the other way around)! Have we mentioned that your kids will love it as well? Plus, just a 20-minute away, Lotteland theme park awaits those ready for a day of family fun. Pärnu is also a wellness hotspot, with plenty of spa hotels with massages to go with your cocktails.

Tallinn

Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved Hanseatic town centres in the world. Stroll through its winding streets, stop at cafes for a break and climb up to Toompea hill for incredible red rooftop views. It is only a short tram ride (or walk) away from Telliskivi Creative City that offers an entirely different atmosphere. An industrial setting turned into a lively hub of shops, bars, galleries and restaurants, with Fotografiska photo centre as the main star. Then head out to Noblessner, a modern seaside district that gained the summer hotspot status with its people-watching terraces. For romantics, we recommend the Kadriorg Palace and park. It’s filled with art galleries, small restaurants and overwhelming greenery.

Lahemaa National Park

Just an hour away from the capital lies the beautiful area of Lahemaa National Park. Choose between spending the night either in one of the historical manor houses or a traditional farmhouse. Then, the next morning, grab a rental bike and pedal to the sandy seaside hiding behind the pine forest, and enjoy the relaxed settings of the Altja fishermen village or Käsmu, the Captain village. Alternatively, hike along the endless wooden pathways through beautiful bogs and lush forests that the hiking trails of Lahemaa abundantly provide. To top it off, treat yourself to a hearty meal at one of the area’s home restaurants.

Tartu

Welcome to Estonia’s student town! The creative and easygoing vibe will definitely charm you from first sight. Take in the funky graffiti art in Aparaaditehas and bohemian Soup Town and wander the small Old Town streets where the University takes centre stage. Climb up to the green Toomemägi hill, enjoy the impressive ruins of the Cathedral and then dive into the colourful museum scene. Be it the small and quirky Toy Museum, the prominent Estonian National Museum or the fun AHHAA museum for the whole family, you’re sure to find something to your liking. And don’t miss out on the Upside Down House that’ll make your head spin! Tartu, selected as the European Capital of Culture 2024, provides a wide range of cultural activities – everything from student stand up comedy nights to classical music concerts in a church.