Lithuania's gastronomic highlights

Vilnius

Day 1: Welcome to Lithuania!

Today, you'll arrive in Vilnius! After landing at the airport, pick up your rental car and make your way to the hotel. Check in and enjoy time to rest and recharge your batteries, or head out to explore Lithuania's capital.

Vilnius

Day 2: Your first culinary taste

The Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, unveils itself as a captivating exhibition of vibrant Baroque residences, with its Old Town proudly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the charming streets, designer boutiques and upscale craft shops discreetly inhabit dilapidated facades. Amidst this cultural tapestry lie inviting cafes and restaurants, providing the perfect opportunity to savor authentic Lithuanian cuisine. 

Delve into the realm of traditional Lithuanian dishes at a local snack bar. Indulge in the crunch of fried bread, experience the renowned cold-bar soup, or relish the flavors of potato dumplings known as cepelinai. Opt for a tasting dinner or peruse the menu to fully immerse yourself in the culinary richness of local traditions. 

Vilnius - Trakai - Druskininkai

Day 3: The start of a self-drive journey

Embark on a gastronomic adventure as you take control of the steering wheel for a self-drive journey across Lithuania's most picturesque and renowned destinations. 

Just a stone's throw away from Vilnius, Trakai is cradled by lakes, forests, and the echoes of two ancient castles. This city, steeped in history, whispers tales from the era of the Lithuanian Grand Dukes when Trakai proudly served as Lithuania's capital.  

Upon arrival in Trakai, a mandatory visit to a Karaite restaurant awaits, where you can indulge in the Karaite national dish - kibinai. These delectable pastries, crafted from yeast dough and filled with lamb or beef, are best enjoyed while sipping on hot natural broth, tea, or bread kvass. 

Post-lunch, set your sights on Druskininkai for a rejuvenating overnight stay, culminating a day of culinary and cultural exploration.

Druskininkai - Kaunas

Day 4: Tree cake indulgence & scenic driving

Druskininkai is rapidly emerging as the premier recreation destination in Lithuania. Here, the experience transcends mere relaxation; you can inhale the pristine air, savor mineral water drawn straight from natural springs, and partake in myriad activities that nurture both your physical well-being and mental tranquility.

No Lithuanian vacation is complete without indulging in sakotis, the iconic tree cake. Elevate your culinary experience with a tree cake tasting at a local Druskininkai cafe. Sakotis rank among the most renowned baked goods in Lithuanian culinary heritage, gracing the tables of weddings, christenings, and anniversaries.

As the afternoon unfolds, embark on a scenic drive to Kaunas for an overnight stay, adding the perfect conclusion to a day filled with rejuvenation and gastronomic exploration.

Kaunas - Klaipeda

Day 5: Culinary castle tour

Wake up early and take a stroll around the second-largest city in Lithuania – the colorful, modern, and constantly changing city of Kaunas. 

Today, your journey leads to Kaunas Castle, where a tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The experience culminates with a tasting session, allowing you to savor dishes as they were enjoyed in times of yore - by hand. A bowl of water and the edge of a tablecloth accompany the tasting, providing a tactile and immersive dimension to your culinary exploration. 

In the afternoon, drive to Klaipeda, Lithuania's distinguished port city. Once an integral part of Germany, the Old Town exudes the essence of traditional German cities, with its charming German-built wooden houses. Spend your evening traversing the streets, soaking in the city's distinctive charm.

Klaipeda - Curonian Spit National Park - Klaipeda

Day 6: Venture to the Curonian Spit National Park

Embark on a day trip to the Curonian Spit National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unmatched European landscapes. Discover the mystical allure of the Hill of Witches, meander through the Stone Sculptures Park, marvel at one of Europe's largest cormorant colonies, and traverse the captivating expanse of the famed Dead Dunes Valley.  

Fishing is not just an activity here; it's a way of life ingrained in the local culture. Upon reaching Neringa, treating yourself to freshly smoked fish paired with a crisp beer becomes an essential experience. In the afternoon, explore the charming fishing village or unwind on the serene shores of the Baltic Sea. As the evening approaches, journey back to Klaipeda, reflecting on a day filled with exploration and cultural indulgence.

Klaipeda - Vilnius

Day 7: Final day of exploration in Vilnius

Drive the scenic route back to Vilnius and savor your leisure time in the city. Bask in the evening charm of the Old Town, where you can fully immerse yourself in its timeless atmosphere. Conclude your last evening in Lithuania with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in the delectable flavors that showcase the culinary richness of the city. 

Vilnius

Day 8: Goodbye, Lithuania

Your trip has sadly come to an end: after breakfast, make your way back to the airport for your return flight home, filled with memories of unforgettable food and adventure.