Lithuania

Stationed on the Baltic outposts of Europe, Lithuania is anything but backwater. Extremely proud of its heritage, Lithuania loves a good national celebration, and it's got plenty of natural, historic, artistic and architectural assets to show off about. The best places to stay in Lithuania are suitably well placed to make the most out of all it has to offer.

Once upon a time Lithuania had an empire that stretched all the way to the Black Sea, then it vanished from the map as it was swallowed whole by the USSR. But now this rebellious powerhouse is back, and a fully-fledged, national flag-waving member of the EU and of NATO.

Tiny Vilnius has a spire-topped UNESCO listed old heart, but is also known for its hardcore clubbing scene. So for many, this perfect city-break destination is one of the best places to stay in Lithuania, and that's the kind of unexpected contradiction which makes Lithuania such a quirky, vibrant destination.

Lithuania sits on the knife edge between political powers and has suffered throughout history, being pushed and pulled by the Soviets and the Nazis, but it has a very clear national identity, and a tradition of religious harmony unheard of in the region. This dramatic history might be a surprise for some visitors, but it's certainly worth delving into.

What Not To Miss

• The medieval capital, Kernave, is now a World Heritage Listed archaeological site. Hike around the green surroundings and pop into various museums to learn all about its history.
• The beautifully restored Trakai Island Castle, which sits on an island, was once an important stronghold in the days of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Nowadays, it's a great spot to visit and you'll love its serene location.
• Vilnius is an absolute must - with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, its 65 churches, and seemingly endless list of cultural sights.
• The Moletai Lakeland is a region of 200 different sized lakes, dotted with charming little resorts.
• The Curonian Spit is famous for its white beaches backed by magical sand dunes and seaboard forests concealing fascinating old villages.
• It's also worth seeking out Lithuania's oddities such as the Hill of Witches, decorated with sculptures from the land's myths and legends, and the Hill of Crosses, where over one hundred thousand crosses have been contributed, by the faithful.

Use our guide to the best places to stay in Lithuania and start planning your trip to this fascinating country.

For a city break

• The Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square offers five star luxury in the heart of beautiful Vilnius. With marble bathrooms, lavish suites, a spa and a top-notch restaurant, what's not to love?
• Grybas House Hotel is a cosy 10 room guesthouse in Vilnius's old town, just minutes from museums, galleries, shops and bars.
• The Atrium Hotel is a good, reasonably priced hotel that's been converted to contemporary standards from a 16th Century house. With simply designed rooms featuring original features (like exposed wooden beams), it oozes character.
• Grotthuss Hotel has been converted from traditional houses on a narrow, medieval street, into a comfortable design hotel. Enjoy splendid meals in the restaurant's picturesque courtyard.

For complete escape

• The Mabre Residence is a more traditional mansion, converted into a 40 room hotel, complete with a beauty spa. Plus, it's bang smack in the centre of Vilnius.
• Vilnius Grand Resort is located about 20 minutes outside Vilnius and enjoys a wonderful setting - surrounded by pine forests and two lakes. This contemporary stay boasts a fantastic golf course, an indoor pool and extensive spa facilities.

For something unique

• The Narutis Hotel is beautifully decorated with frescoes and Gothic vaults, and its rooms have Turkish baths and jacuzzis. Quite something, and well located in the old town.
• Shakespeare Hotel - it's true, totally themed for the Bard, and other literary greats. Why? No one knows, but it's stylish with its themes, and well located for the highlights of Vilnius, without being too touristy.
• The Stikliai Hotel is charming bordering eccentric, with an excellent restaurant and rich decor.
• Ramada Hotel will transport you back in time to another era with its opulently traditional decoration. An elegant base in the centre of town.

For An Apartment Or holiday villa

• If you've decided that you'd prefer a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• The best time to visit Lithuania is during the summer months, with the average temperature reaching 17°C in July and August. That said, this is peak tourist season and so expect to pay more for accommodation and for there to be a fair few people around.
• If you're into your winter spots or are on a budget then from May to October's the time to visit for you. Tourism slows down a lot at this time of year and flights are generally cheaper too, with December and January the least expensive months.
• International visitors can fly into either Kaunas International Airport, Palanga International Airport, Vilnius International Airport or Siauliai International Airport. Once you arrive, the airports are well served by buses which will take you to the centre of town.
• Ryanair fly from Luton, Bristol, Stansted and Dublin to Kaunas. They also offer flights from Stansted to Palanga, as well as from Luton and Stansted to Vilnius.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure which to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Lithuania.
• Widen the net to include the best places to stay in Latvia or Poland.
• Alternatively, feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.