I wasn’t sure what to expect of Lithuania. The country is progressive in many ways, like using credit cards even for bus tickets, yet it retains a traditional charm. It was relaxed, welcoming, affordable, and offered plenty of activities. Summers are pleasantly warm, and it’s great that the sun sets so late.
Key aspects for digital nomads in Lithuania
- Cost of living: €800-€1200 per month.
- WiFi reliability: Excellent across the country.
- Language: Lithuanian; many speak English.
- Food: Veggie-friendly options are available.
- Accommodation costs: Dorms from €10, private rooms from €30.
- Getting there: Well-connected by flights and busses
- Getting around: Buses and trains are reliable; rental cars offer flexibility.
- People: Friendly and approachable.
- Gyms: Many available in larger cities.
- Visa: 90-day Schengen visa; digital nomad visas available.
- Personal recommendation: Ideal for those who love nature and history.
Best places to live, work, and party
I found Lithuania to be a great blend of productivity and leisure. The cities offered a mix of work and exploration opportunities.
Working in Vilnius
Rich in culture and history, with excellent co-working spaces. You can spend days exploring the city and its surroundings during your lunch break or on the weekends. Perfect for at least one or two weeks if you’re in a rush.
- Café recommendation: RoseHip Vegan Bistro as well as their pendant RoseHip Vegan Kebab.
- Accomodation: Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping offers both dorms and private rooms. (Book via their website for the best rate)
Working in Klaipeda
A coastal town with a relaxed vibe. I’d probably stay on the Curonian Spit next time where it’s really quiet. Klaipeda itself doesn’t have much to offer..
- Accomodation: Light House Coliving provided a serene work environment and a gym next door.
Working in Kaunas
I only visited Kaunas for a day. Many (internationa) students provide the city with a great vibe.
- Café recommendation: Arte y Sabor – A popular vegetarian restaurant with many vegan options.
Best times to travel the baltcis
I recommend visiting Lithuania in the summer. The warm weather between 20-24°C is perfect for exploring, and the long daylight hours with the sun setting around 11 pm give you more time to enjoy outdoor activities. The cities are vibrant with festivals, markets, and plenty of events, making it an ideal time for both work and leisure.
- June to August: Warm with temperatures between 20-24°C. The sun sets around 23:00, and there’s a lot happening in the cities.
- September to November: Mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.
- December to February: Cold with picturesque landscapes.
- March to May: Blooming nature and pleasant weather.
Top 10 tourist attractions
Many of the following sites can be visited during weekends, lunch breaks, or after work, providing a perfect balance of work and leisure.
- Trakai Castle: Located 28 km west of Vilnius, this picturesque island castle takes about half a day to explore. It’s easily reachable by bus or train and can be visited independently or with a guided tour.
- Curonian Spit: Near Klaipėda, this UNESCO site features stunning dunes and beaches. A full-day trip is ideal, best explored with a guided tour.
- Vilnius Old Town: In the heart of Vilnius, known for its medieval architecture. Perfect for a few hours’ exploration on foot, no tour needed.
- Kaunas Castle: Located in Kaunas, this Gothic castle takes about two hours to explore. You can visit on your own or join a guided tour.
- Hill of Crosses: Near Šiauliai, about 220 km from Vilnius. It takes half a day to visit and is best explored independently, though tours are available.
- Aukštaitija National Park: About 100 km northeast of Vilnius, known for its lakes and forests. A full day is recommended, and it can be explored on your own or with a tour.
- Nida: On the Curonian Spit, near Klaipėda. A day trip is perfect, easily explored independently (take the ferry from Klaipeda for 2 Euro return, catch the bus for 6 Euro one way, explore and return the same way).
- Palanga Beach: Near Klaipėda, known for its sandy beaches. Ideal for a weekend visit, easily explored on your own.
- Gediminas Tower: In Vilnius, offering panoramic views. Takes about an hour to visit, no tour needed.
- Užupis District: An artistic neighborhood in Vilnius. A few hours is enough to explore, best enjoyed independently.
Hidden gems
Former Prison in Vilnius Old Town: A unique historical site offering a glimpse into the past.
Seskine District in Vilnius: A charming area with a touch of socialism, offering a unique local perspective. Take bus no. 10 all the way to Jovaro st. and walk back. It’s an interesting and safe area.
Parnidis Dune: A breathtaking natural spot on the Curonian Spit, near Nida.
Getting around locally
- Bus: Affordable with good WiFi. Overnight buses to Estonia, including Tallinn, are convenient.
- Train: Efficient connections between major cities.
- Rental car: Offers flexibility for exploring remote areas.
Visa information for digital nomads and tourists
- EU citizens: No visa required.
- Non-EU citizens: 90-day Schengen visa, long-term visa options available. Friends from outside the EU found the 90-day Schengen visa straightforward, with options for extending their stay.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Lithuania offers a digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay longer than the standard tourist visa. To apply, you’ll need proof of remote work or freelance income, health insurance, and sufficient funds to support your stay. The visa typically lasts for one year and can be extended.
Local food and vegetarian options
- Traditional Dishes: You must try šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup, which super refreshing on a hot day), cepelinai (potato or vegetable dumplings), and the various sweet curd snacks in supermarkets (varškės sūreliai).
- Vegetarian Restaurants: Plenty of options in Vilnius and Kaunas.
Sustainable travel in Lithuania
- Use Public Transport: Buses and trains are eco-friendly and efficient. I preferred public transport to reduce my carbon footprint.
- Recycling: Widely practiced.
- Eco-Friendly Activities: Reduce plastic use and support local businesses.
What experiences have you had in Lithuania? Share them in the comments below!
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