Hidden Trails and Enchanted Forests: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip Through Lithuania

Morning: Arrive in Vilnius, pick up your rental car, and embark on a scenic drive to Aukštaitija National Park. Known for its lush pine forests and picturesque lakes, this park promises a tranquil start to your journey.

Afternoon: Upon arrival at the park, stop by the welcome center to pick up a trail map and get recommendations. Depending on your arrival time, you might enjoy a leisurely hike or bike ride along the park's well-marked trails. For a unique experience, consider renting a kayak or SUP to explore the serene lakes.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local eatery in a nearby village. Try traditional Lithuanian dishes at a cozy restaurant or guesthouse, immersing yourself in the local cuisine.

Morning: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and then head out to explore Aukštaitija's diverse landscapes. Take a peaceful hike through the forest trails, or rent a kayak for a refreshing paddle on one of the many lakes.

Afternoon: Visit the Beekeeper Museum in the village of Palūšė, where you can explore an outdoor museum village showcasing traditional beekeeping tools, wooden folk statues and local honey. This visit offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture and craftsmanship. Consider visiting the nearby Ginučiai water mill. Discover the historical charm of Palūšė by visiting its hexagonal wooden church, dating back to 1757. For a deeper dive into the region’s history, explore nearby fortification mounds, such as the Taurapilio Mound near Lake Tauragnas.

Evening: Conclude your day with dinner at a charming local restaurant, such as Romnesa Ignalina, or guesthouse. Savor more traditional Lithuanian dishes while reflecting on your day’s adventures in this enchanting region.

Morning: Wake up to the peaceful and serene environment of the forest and enjoy a leisurely morning before beginning your travel.

Afternoon: Depart for Šiauliai. Consider a stop at Anykščiai Regional Park to walk the canopy trail and climb the 34-meter observation tower for stunning views. Optionally, visit the village of Naisiai to see the park featuring wooden sculptures of Pagan gods.

Evening: Arrive in Šiauliai and start your evening at Black Bar, which offers a unique, dark, vampiric atmosphere and creative cocktails. Šiauliai's architecture primarily reflects the Soviet style from the 1940s and 1950s, a result of the city's history during and after the world wars. For dinner, head to Arkos, an intimate café-bar along the pedestrian street in the old town, where you can enjoy hearty Lithuanian cuisine.

Morning: Rise early to visit the Hill of Crosses, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just 12 km north of Šiauliai. Explore the towering maze of over 100,000 crucifixes of various sizes and materials. Appreciate the beauty, symbolism and cultural significance of this unique pilgrimage site, which continues to grow each year.

Afternoon: Head to the picturesque lakeside town of Plateliai for lunch. On your way, stop by the Cold War Museum within Žemaitija National Park. Explore the large exhibits and experience a Soviet-era ballistic missile launch complex.

Evening: Continue your journey to Palanga, a beach resort town known for its carnival seaside atmosphere, open-air restaurants and wide sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea. Stroll along Basanavičiaus Street, the main pedestrian area, and consider dining at Vila Komoda, renowned as one of the best restaurants in Lithuania. Continue to Klaipeda for the evening.

Morning: Depart Klaipeda on the ferry to the Curonian Spit. Note that the ferry can get busy, so plan to arrive early. After about a 45-minute drive from the ferry terminal, reach Nida on the Curonian Spit. Start your day exploring this charming town. Sights include the Amber Gallery Museum, Evangelical Lutheran Church, an ethnographic cemetery and a local lighthouse.

Afternoon: Enjoy an incredible lunch of smoked local fish at Tik pas Joną. Before or after lunch, visit notable sites such as the Curonian Spit National Park, and the impressive dunes and beaches in the area. Hike up the famous sand dunes for breathtaking views of the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. Next, head to the village of Juodkrante, located about 30 minutes from Nida. Discover the village's attractions, including the Witch's Hill, which features wooden sculptures of mythological figures, and enjoy a walk along the scenic coastal path.

Evening: Head back to Klaipeda, and if time permits, explore additional attractions such as the park along the Dane River, the historical architecture and charm of Klaipeda’s Old Town, the iconic hand-cranked bridge, the mysterious Black Ghost Statue and the Old Mill Hotel and nearby Sculpture Park.

Morning: Depart Klaipeda and head east following Route 141 and the Neman River, enjoying a scenic drive that takes approximately 240 km. This route takes you past a variety of sights, including Panemunės Pilis Castle, the historic Raudone Castle, the charming town of Vilkija and Raudondvaris Castle on route to Kaunas.

Afternoon: Before entering the city of Kaunas, stop at the Ninth Fort. The Ninth Fort in Kaunas, Lithuania, is a significant historical site, originally built as a military fortification and later used as a prison during the Soviet era. Today, it serves as a poignant memorial and museum, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust and the Soviet repressions, offering visitors insights into Lithuania's turbulent 20th-century history. If time permits, explore the Museum of Devils. The Museum of Devils in Kaunas is a unique and intriguing cultural institution dedicated to showcasing an extensive collection of devil-themed art and folklore, reflecting the rich tapestry of Lithuanian myth and superstition.

Evening: Stroll through the charming streets of Old Town Kaunas before heading to Uoksas for the Michelin-starred restaurant’s incredible tasting menu focused on seasonal and local cuisine.

Morning: Start your journey early from Kaunas to maximize your day. Enjoy a scenic drive, about one-and-a-half hours, heading north to the picturesque town of Trakai, home to the famous Trakai Castle. Explore the medieval castle located on an island in Lake Galvė. Walk through the castle’s historic halls, enjoy the beautiful views from the ramparts and learn about its history at the museum exhibits.

Afternoon: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or café, sampling traditional Lithuanian dishes such as kibinai (meat-filled pastries), a local specialty. After lunch, take a stroll around the charming town of Trakai, and if time allows, consider a boat ride on Lake Galvė for a different perspective of the castle. Continue your journey to Vilnius, which takes about 30–45 minutes. Arrive in the city and begin exploring the Lithuanian capital.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and take a leisurely evening stroll through the city to soak in its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is rich in history, culture and architecture. Spend at least two days here exploring the various sights. Consider a walking tour on your first day to get your bearings as well as recommendations from a local guide.

Here are some of the top sights to visit in Vilnius:

• Vilnius Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, historic buildings and vibrant squares.

• Vilnius Cathedral: The main cathedral of Lithuania, known for its neoclassical architecture and impressive interior.

• Gediminas Tower: A historic tower offering panoramic views of the city, part of the original Upper Castle.

• Užupis: A quirky, artistic neighborhood that has declared itself an independent republic with its own constitution.

• Church of St. Anne: An exquisite example of Gothic architecture, famous for its intricate brickwork.

• Vilnius University: One of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe, featuring beautiful courtyards and historic buildings.

• The Gate of Dawn: A historic city gate with a chapel housing a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.

• Museum of the Occupation and Freedom Fights: A museum dedicated to Lithuania's history under Soviet and Nazi occupations.

• The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: A reconstructed palace showcasing the history of Lithuania's Grand Duchy.

• Bernardine Garden: A serene park with beautifully landscaped gardens and views of the Vilnia River.

Vilnius offers a diverse dining scene ranging from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to modern and international options. Here are some top recommendations for dining in Vilnius:

• Fine Little Day: A trendy spot known for its modern European cuisine and stylish ambiance. It offers a mix of seasonal dishes with a creative twist.

• Locals: A popular restaurant serving contemporary Lithuanian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative dishes.

• Senoji Trobelė: A charming restaurant that offers traditional Lithuanian fare in a rustic, cozy setting. It’s known for its hearty dishes and authentic flavors.

• Nineteen18: Located in the heart of Vilnius, this restaurant provides a refined dining experience with a menu that blends Lithuanian and international cuisines.

• Bottles of Vilnius: A great choice for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a sophisticated dining experience, featuring an extensive wine list and a menu with European and local influences.

• Turgus: Situated in the historic market area, Turgus offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu of contemporary Lithuanian dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Kiosk: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative street food-inspired menu, Kiosk offers a range of modern dishes in a casual setting.

• Gastronomija: A fine dining establishment offering an elegant atmosphere and a menu that combines Lithuanian and European flavors with an emphasis on presentation and quality.

These dining spots provide a range of experiences, from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to modern and international flavors, ensuring a memorable culinary experience in Vilnius.