Lithuania’s most untouched wilderness is not located in the formal surroundings of the Alps or the dense forests of northern Scandinavia -it’s in fact nestled deeply within Lithuania itself.
With untouched green expanses, ancient forests, and a rich cultural inheritance, Lithuania’s national parks are finally gaining the recognition they merit, as the country has been named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s leading destinations in their ‘Best in Travel 2025’ list.
This achievement did not catch Olga Gončarova, General Manager at Lithuania Travel, off guard, as Lithuania’s cultural attractions and national parks have been quietly impressing those in the know for some time. “Lithuania is an underappreciated gem in Europe,” she explains. “There’s no overtourism here… only natural splendor and authentic culture.”
The recent Lonely Planet recognition is considered by Gončarova as “a gift” to Lithuania, “not only for tourism professionals, but for all Lithuanians who contribute to creating a welcoming, authentic experience for visitors.”
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The five national parks of Lithuania highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and dedication to eco-friendly tourism, from historic lake-rich areas near the capital, Vilnius, to extensive coastal dunes and ancient forests.
The area is getting more wooded every year,” notes Gončarova. “The infrastructure is becoming more developed annually… we now have over 150 different paths where people can hike.
Each park integrates nature and history, with small villages nestled beside vibrant landscapes teeming with rare flora and fauna.
Starting with the inviting charm of Trakai Historical National Park to the vast expanses of the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit, these parks present a leisurely travel experience for travelers seeking to avoid the crowds found in Europe’s more populous destinations.
This short excursion leaves ample time for one to explore Trakai itself, explore the beautiful Interwar town architecture and sample local cuisine at an inn restaurant.
UNESCO-listed Trakai National Park, the smallest in Lithuania with an area of 82 square kilometers, is a captivating mix of history, lakes, and lush woodlands.
Gončarova notes that Trakai is remarkably close to Vilnius, situated approximately 25 kilometres away.
Dominating the park is Trakai’s Island Castle, a medieval fortress situated on Lake Galve that entices visitors throughout the year. Just a 700-meter leisurely walk to the south lies the captivating remains of the Peninsula Castle, adding a layer of mystery to the park’s historical charm. With lakes comprising about 20 per cent of the park’s size, Lake Galve becomes a vibrant hub for canoeing and kayaking in the warmer months.
Beyond the castle, the park has clear lakes and wooded paths that make it perfect for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. Due to its convenient location and rich history, Trakai has long been a popular destination for locals and visitors.
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Traditional wooden houses, built in a unique Karaite architectural style, can be found in the village of Trakai. This is where visitors can gain insight into Lithuania’s distinctive cultural blend and sample local specialties, such as ‘kibinai’, a savory pastry that originated with the Karaite community hundreds of years ago.
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Head west to Curonian Spit National Park to experience the unbridled beauty of the Baltic coast, which Gončarova describes as “very unique”. This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches along a thin sandbar, dividing the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea.
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Visitors can explore Europe’s largest shifting dunes, known as the ‘Dead Dunes’, where the sands have engulfed entire villages over the centuries. The Curonian Spit is also renowned for its amber reserves, often referred to as “Baltic gold”, which locals have skillfully transformed into adornments and various creations over many generations.
Avid explorers can discover the coastline on a bike ride, as trails extend along the entire length of the spit, showcasing breathtaking views of the sea and the lagoo
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In Lithuania’s northwest, Žemaitija National Park is a place where nature, mythology, and history come together. This park, which is centered around the famous Lake Plateliai, features breathtaking landscapes that locals insist are surrounded by myths and legends.
By day, the lake is an inescapable magnet for swimming, kayaking, or cycling along its picturesque shores. Families converge on its sandy, shallow coast, particularly near Hotel Linelis, where a playground, volleyball, and basketball courts make it a family favourite.
Despite its serene appearance by day, the lake takes on a more ominous tone at night. Local legends alert against swimming in the evenings when eerie sounds from the depths of the lake and tales of long-haired woodland spirits are said to arise. Whether or not you believe it, this only adds to the rich repository of lore that contributes to Žemaitija’s fascinating allure.
Attraction at this missile base provides a chilling look into an era when nuclear threats were a prominent concern.
Inside the underground bunkers that once stored SS-4 medium-range missiles, each equipped with 2-megaton warheads, exhibits recreate the intense atmosphere of the Cold War era.
Guests stroll through various security checkpoints and surveillance areas, delving into displays showcasing missile technology and Cold War propaganda exhibits.
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Lithuania’s oldest national park, Aukštaitija National Park, is a combination of lakes, forests, and traditional villages.
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One must-see site in Aukštaitija is Ladakalnis, a historic hill offering a breathtaking panoramic view of six surrounding lakes. “We have more than 30 observation towers in the national parks,” notes Gončarova.
Historically, Ladakalnis was a site of worship for ancient Baltic tribes, and many visitors today continue the tradition of leaving pebbles as offerings to the goddess Lada, who, according to legend, was revered here.
In addition to its breathtaking landscapes, Aukštaitija is dedicated to safeguarding Lithuania’s traditional crafts and heritage. “We have special initiatives to link with local customs,” Gončarova explains. In the village of Meironys, situated on the shore of Lake Lūšiai, the Nature School provides engaging activities focused on environmental education.
Another important cultural attraction within the park is the Beekeeping Museum, where visitors get a comprehensive insight into Lithuanian beekeeping via educational programs, artistic displays, and practical activities.
Dzukija National Park: Lithuania’s biggest woodland
Dzūkija serves as a popular destination for bird enthusiasts.
Between April and September, the forests of Dzūkija come alive with the sweet melodies of birds. Across the Merkys Valley, the distinctive calls of corncrakes echo through the air, while kingfishers dart above the Ūla River, and black storks and goosanders are often spotted along its banks.
A popular tradition in Dzūkija is mushroom picking, especially during autumn. Visitors can participate in foraging tours conducted by locals who share their expertise on the forest’s edible mushrooms and the cultural importance of foraging in Lithuania.
