Understand

Prepare to be captivated by Lithuania, a dynamic member of the European Union since 1May2004 and NATO since 29March of that same year. With a rich and storied history spanning over eight centuries, this Baltic country has stood at the crossroads of Western and Eastern civilizations, engaging in dramatic battles for independence and survival. In the Middle Ages, Lithuania flourished as the largest state in all of Europe, fostering prosperous trades and overseas commerce. A pivotal moment in its heritage came in 1579 with the opening of Vilnius University—an esteemed hub of scientific and educational prowess on a grand European scale. During the 16th century, Lithuania established its First, Second, and Third Statutes, which not only shaped its legislative system but also influenced the legal frameworks of other European nations. So significant was Lithuania's Third Statute that it remained in effect for an astounding 250 years, playing a crucial role in preserving national identity and civic consciousness. Lithuania's historical significance extends even further. In 1791, it proudly adopted the Constitution of Poland-Lithuania, making it one of the earliest constitutions in Europe. This landmark event occurred mere months before the adoption of the iconic French Constitution. Such milestones in Lithuania's enduring past underscore its significance as a key player in Europe's political and cultural landscape.

Get in

Dreaming of exploring Lithuania and other fascinating European countries? Lithuania is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means there are no border controls between the countries that have signed this treaty. If you have a visa for any Schengen member, it's valid for all other countries that have implemented the treaty. However, be aware that not all EU members have signed the Schengen treaty, and not all Schengen members are part of the European Union. This means that there may be spot customs checks but no immigration checks if you're traveling within Schengen but to/from a non-EU country, or you may have to clear immigration but not customs when traveling within the EU but to/from a non-Schengen country. For more information on how the Schengen Zone works and entry requirements, check out our article on Travel in the Schengen Zone. Get ready to embark on an incredible European journey!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Cepelinai - Also known as zeppelin potatoes or potato dumplings, cepelinai are a traditional Lithuanian dish consisting of boiled potato dough, often filled with meat or accompanied by bacon and served with a sour cream and onion sauce.

Koldūnai - A Lithuanian fish soup made primarily with carp and other freshwater fish, along with potatoes, onions, and various spices. The fish is typically marinated in vinegar before cooking, giving the soup a distinct flavor.

Šakotis - A towering, cone-shaped pastry made of layers of flaky dough, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as poppy seed mixture, sugar, and raisins, or even minced meat and onions. Šakotis can be enjoyed both as a dessert and a snack.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing