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LITHUANIA

If you think Lithuania is somewhere in South America, think again. If your eyes are fixed on a map of the Balkans, press another key on your keyboard. So where is Lithuania located? The lyrics of one of Lithuanian songs say it’s in the middle of Europe – and indeed, those are not just song lyrics. Using the method of gravitational centres, researchers at the National Institute of Geographic and Forest Information in France established that the geographical centre of Europe is in fact found in Lithuania. The nation is only a few hours by plane from other European capitals and can also easily be reached by coach, train or even boat. So welcome to this country of Northern Europe, to the very centre of Europe… to Lithuania. More information: Lithuania Travel.
The country has preserved many pagan and folk traditions that are still alive in villages. On the other hand, big cities are rich with vibrant cultural life and endless entertainment opportunities. There are numerous museums that have accumulated huge collections, national and private art galleries, the never-ending buzz of theatre and music halls, fascinating nightlife, a variety of entertainment options and sports events.
 

Some colours can be made in a lab, but nothing beats natural and vivid colours that reveal themselves when you visit a new country. Join Lukas at the Super Secret Institute of Colours in Lithuania as he searches for unique colours and hues. Or, simply come to Lithuania for colours you never knew existed.
 

Total area: 65,300 sq. km
Population: 2 795 680 (in 2021)
Language: Lithuanian
Currency: Euro
Local time: GMT + 3 hours (EEST)
International telephone code: +370
Geographical location: The Republic of Lithuania lies on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. Lithuania has a border with Latvia, Belarus, Poland and Russian Federation (the area of Kaliningrad). 
Membership: EU, NATO, Schengen, the UN and the OECD
 

VILNIUS

Capital of Lithuania has always been at the crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures. The city’s historical buildings are charming for their differing styles, featuring elements of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classicism. Narrow streets in the Old Town and spacious, open squares provide evidence that Vilnius was never inclined to shake off the influence of alien cultures. Indeed, quite the opposite – it always showed them respect and readily used them for the city’s embellishment.

Today, as well as other Baltic capitals, Vilnius is a modern, homely and welcoming city full of culture and creation. It is a place where you can see talking statues, hear music being played, smell good food and have adventures. You can get to the centre of Vilnius by boat, take to the sky in a hot-air balloon, pick some beautiful liverleaves from the forest in the middle of town, or count stars from the top of the hill where the legendary iron wolf howled in Grand Duke Gediminas’s dream. More information: Go Vilnius.

Boring is not an option here – Vilnius is packed with action, art, inspiration, history, and many adventures along the way. The city is fit for pleasure seekers – going to a movie or a modern art exhibition opening, enjoying a dinner at some of the best restaurants in Lithuania, or joining the active nightlife scene will give you a taste of local life. 

But Vilnius is also open for adventurers – kayaking right through the city centre of Vilnius, running in nature, hiking in national parks, joining a mountain-bike race, or soaring across the sky in a hot-air balloon will give you thrills. Experiences in Vilnius.

Nearly half of Vilnius is made up of green space – about three times more than Amsterdam, Berlin and Warsaw. While most cities are an explosion of concrete with a few green oases around, Vilnius feels like it’s be a part of a huge green forest – green spaces make up 46 % of the city. 

While exploring the city you might eventually find yourself crossing an unexpected meadow, or navigating through some old trees to reach your next destination. These are just some of the perks of living in one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Breathe deep and relax.

Compact city filled with parks, squares, and hiking trails – Vilnius is extremely friendly to those who enjoy a good walk while keeping track of their step counts. The city definitely helps you walk your 10,000 daily steps!
Choosing a boring route is impossible because Vilnius has a story to tell around every corner. 
Create your own map of discoveries or choose from more than 20 walking routes designed for all types of explorers. From true hiking in the picturesque landscapes of the regional parks to the artistic side of Vilnius and its historical landmarks, each route is detailed with a step count, average duration and a great description of what to expect. No need to plan ahead, everything is prepared, all you need to do is walk and enjoy.  
Routes prepared in advance: Walkable Vilnius

You’ll walk through an art gallery, even if you don’t visit one. Discover impressive shapes, colours, and characters while taking a stroll through the city and turning random corners.
Visit Literatų Street, which is adorned with more than 200 works of art to give passers-by a dose of street art. Or walk the streets to catch a glimpse of murals by the famous Millo, Os Gemeos, Tank Petrol, and many other foreign artists who have left their legacy on the city’s buildings. Always be prepared to be amazed. Don’t forget to visit the artistic independent Republic of Užupis. It’s filled with unique art installations and a bohemian aura. Check out the constitution of Užupis – which is translated into more than 50 languages, so you can be sure of the rights the citizens of Užupis have. Maybe you’ll even want to become one yourself.