Lithuania is fast emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for family travel, with a unique blend of cultural heritage, hands-on attractions, and natural beauty – all within easy reach of the UK with a flight time of under three hours.
The country has received significant international recognition in recent months. For example, Lithuania was featured in the Michelin Guide for the first time in 2024, with 32 restaurants listed and four awarded a Michelin star. In addition, Lonely Planet named Lithuania the second-best travel destination in the world – and the top-ranked in Europe.
Spring is an ideal time to explore the country. Pleasantly mild temperatures and longer days provide optimal conditions for outdoor exploration, while a range of family-focused attractions across the country ensures that younger visitors are kept engaged and entertained.
Vilnius
The capital city, Vilnius, offers a rich mix of history, culture, and child-friendly activities. The medieval Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is compact and walkable, making it suitable for families travelling with children.
Highlights include the Toy Museum, which features interactive exhibits designed to engage children through play, and the Automuseum, which is home to over 100 historically significant vehicles. Amongst the cars in the collection are Rolls-Royce and Jaguar models, a classic London taxi, and vehicles with unique stories from Lithuania’s past.
For more active pursuits, the Skypark Trampoline Arena offers a safe indoor space for play, including climbing areas and trampolines. Nearby, a family-friendly zoo allows children to meet small animals such as rabbits and parrots.
Vilnius is also known for its architectural landmarks, with nearly 100 churches located across the city. Notable examples include Vilnius Cathedral, the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, and the Church of St. Anne, which is widely regarded as one of the finest Gothic buildings in the region.
Trakai
A short trip from the capital brings visitors to Trakai, a historic lakeside town famous for its fairytale castle on Lake Galvė.
Once the capital of Lithuania, Trakai offers scenic views, boat rides, and the chance to sample kibinai – traditional pastries introduced by the Karaim community in the 14th century. The town combines cultural history with outdoor exploration, making it a popular day trip for families.
Kaunas
Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas, provides a balance of history, modern culture, and interactive experiences. The Old Town is filled with street art, independent cafés, and architectural landmarks. Recognised by UNESCO for its interwar modernist architecture, the city has earned growing attention as a design destination.
Attractions for families include the Lithuanian Aviation Museum, where children can explore real aircraft, and the Devil’s Museum, a collection of folklore-inspired art. The new Mokslo Sala (“Science Island”) is also located here, offering over 140 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and STEAM learning spaces designed to spark curiosity in young visitors.
A visit to the Pažaislis Monastery, just outside the city, provides a quieter interlude. Surrounded by nature, the site offers scenic walking routes and views of Baroque architecture.
Šiauliai
In northern Lithuania, the city of Šiauliai is best known for the Hill of Crosses—one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Situated twelve kilometres from the city centre, the hill is covered in more than 100,000 crosses and religious symbols, making it a powerful testament to faith and cultural identity.
Lithuania’s tradition of cross-making has been officially recognised by UNESCO as part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage, reflecting its historical significance during the Soviet era.
Visit https://lithuania.travel/en for more information on the best places for families to see and explore in Lithuania.
You must be logged in to post a comment.