Lithuania

This new, comprehensively updated sixth edition of Bradt’s Lithuania remains the only full-length standalone guide to the largest and southernmost of the three Baltic states. Insider insights and intimate depictions - from authors steeped in the country’s tourism industry since 2000 - characterise this new guidebook to an exciting, relatively under-the-radar destination. The old town of Vilnius (the capital, where grand Gothic and Baroque façades line cobbled streets), the second city Kaunas and the UNESCO-listed Lithuanian coast (the Curonian Spit, with its traditional fishing villages amid fragile sand-dune ecosystems) are the eye candy that attract international visitors. Behind these main sights is a patchwork of unspoilt rolling landscapes, wholesome village life, crafts, traditions and scars from a brutal Soviet occupation. Upon these elements are layered the youthful energy, new technologies and quirky artistic expression that create the vibrant spirit leading Lithuania into a new era. Lithuania is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons: feel spring’s vitality when wandering amid wildflower-rich meadows; soak up summer vibes at the seaside; forage through autumnal forests; or crunch through crisp snow in old town streets. To get the best out of your stay, track down your interests locally. Rural heritage provides a strong identity and community here. If you visit a national park, attend an immersive crafts workshop, hike through the forests or visit wooden villages with their church-nesting storks. Foodies should not simply eat in the best restaurant in Vilnius, but attend a cookery class or lunch in a village tavern where not only is food how grandma cooks it but you will probably meet grandma. Deepen your understanding of this fascinating country by visiting Plokstine’s secret Soviet missile base (which now houses a Cold War museum) or the Hill of Crosses pilgrimage site (a national symbol of Lithuania’s resistance against foreign occupation). Stay in spa resorts in Druskininkai, Birstonas or Palanga, where Soviet sanatoriums have been replaced by indulgent wellness centres. Canoe around Trakai Castle then book a traditional ’Kibinai’ cookery workshop with the Karaite ethnic community. For all this, and much more besides, Bradt’s Lithuania guidebook provides the perfect travel companion.

Sally Chambers is an expert in travel to Lithuania and co-owner of specialist tour operator Baltic Holidays. From 1999 to 2001, she lived in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, working for a local travel guide publisher. She arrived knowing nothing about the country and, as she was driving through a bleak, grey, snow-covered landscape, practised basic Lithuanian vocabulary and counting 1 to 10. Fortunately, things swiftly improved: any free time was spent exploring the country, and she was soon recommending where local friends should go on their weekends! Since returning to live in the UK, she has been promoting Lithuania as a travel destination and tailoring tours of Lithuania and the other Baltic states. She often works on Lithuania-time for meetings, considers the country her second home, and regularly returns to research and to catch up with colleagues and friends. Bradt’s Lithuania is her first book.