Lithuania by train
Steeped in history and tradition, Lithuania is not to be missed when traveling through eastern Europe. From grand castles to picturesque lakes and lush forests, make sure it is part of your itinerary!
Lithuania quick facts
Eurail passes for Lithuania
Trains in Lithuania
The main rail operator in Lithuania is Lietuvos Gelezinkeliai.
Domestic trains
- Vilnius Railway Station Gelezinkelio Stotis is the largest station in the country, and the main hub for rail traffic.
- There is a direct train connection from Vilnius airport to this central station 16 times a day, which takes 7 minutes and costs €0.70.
- Other large stations are in Klaipéda, Marijampolé, Jonava, and Kaunas.
- Eurail Passes are not valid on the buses or trams.
What are the train travel times between Lithuania's major cities? You won't need to make seat reservations if you use regional trains for the following routes:
| Route | Travel time |
|---|---|
| Vilnius to Kaunas | 1hr 34min |
| Vilnius to Klaipéda | 4hr 10min |
| Vilnius to Siauliai | 2hr 33min |
International trains
- The main international connection is between Vilnius and Bialystok in Poland.
- This trip takes on average 7hr 30min including a 2hr transfer in Kaunas.
- This line runs on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays only. Bikes and luggage can be carried on board, space permitting. There is a 35kg limit on luggage.
Places to visit
Old Town Vilnius
The social hub of the capital, Vilnius' Old Town has something for everyone, from grand architecture, to a buzzing nightlife. It is also the perfect spot to relax, with many riverside cafés and eateries.
Amongst the many unique buildings, one of the most prominent is St Anne's Church, whose twisted red-clay towers pierce the skyline. You can also visit the crypts which lead under Vilnius cathedral to learn more about the history of the city.
How to get there
All of Vilnius is accessible by foot, with the Old Town being a short walk from the train station.
The Republic of Uzupis
Formerly one of the most dangerous areas of the city with a dark history, the bohemian self-governed Republic of Uzupis is a fascinating place to visit. Initially a neighbourhood left to crumble, artists took it over and built a republic with its own currency and constitution, founded on the ideas of community and co-operation.
These days, the streets are lined with art, and the area hosts many creative festivals and events year-round.
Beware though, as locals believe that if you happen to gaze into the eyes of the mermaid statue that greets you as you enter, you'll never want to leave.
How to get there
The Republic of Uzupis is mostly within the Old Town area of Vilnius, reachable by crossing one of the many bridges over Vilnia River.
Sand dunes of Nida
Stretching for 98 kilometers, the shifting sands in western Lithuania are a natural wonder well worth visiting. The dunes, known as the Curonian Spit, frame the Curonian Lagoon and protect it from the waves of the Baltic Sea. Now a protected national park, the flora and fauna thrive, and nature lovers can possibly catch a glimpse of everything from racoons to moose and jellyfish.
How to get there
There are ferries twice a day that take you to Nida from Klaipeda which take 2 hours. There are also buses that run regularly, with a jouney time of 1h 40m.
Tower of Gedimas
Overlooking the city of Vilnius is the Tower of Gedimas, all that is left of the Upper Castle that was once the first line of defence for the city.
Nowadays, it offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city, and houses a small museum that covers the history of the castle.
How to get there
The Tower can be reached by foot via a road, or by taking a funicular from the city up the hill directly in less than 2 minutes.
Hill of Crosses
With the origins shrouded in mystery, the Hill of Crosses has been a popular place of pilgrimage for over a century. The number of crosses continues to grow, with over 200,000 currently – and visitors are welcome to leave their own.
The site, located a short journey from Siauliai, used to be a fort. However the Soviet occupations of the area gave it a new significance, and now it holds a place in Lithuanians' hearts as a symbol of heritage, remembrance, and also resistance.
How to get there
From Siauliai, a bus can take you to Domantai from which the hill is a 20-minute walk.
Trakai Castle
Situated on beautiful Lake Galve, this ancient castle has been built, reduced to rubble and restored multiple times since its construction in the 16th century. Nowadays, it is open to the public, and hosts many permanent and temporary exhibitions along with festivals throughout the year.
How to get there
The town of Trakai can be reached by train from Vilnius. The journey is around 30 minutes, and costs less than 2 euros
