A land of primeval forests, gorgeous sandy beaches, and beautiful lakes, Lithuania remains an unexplored gem of the Baltics. Its history resembles that of its northern neighbor Latvia. Claiming independence in 1918, Lithuania was included in the USSR after WWII. It finally regained control in 1991. Lithuania now shares borders with Belarus to the south, Poland to the south-west, and Kaliningrad, Russia, and the Baltic Sea sit in the north-west.

Due to its budget-friendliness and fast, uninterrupted internet connections, Lithuania has become a haven for backpackers and digital nomads during the last decade. Simultaneously, its beautiful landscapes have acted as perfect backdrops in many international film productions. The country is home to diverse attractions eager to impress varied interests. Its comparatively short coastline is, in particular, a tourist magnet due to the presence of the Curonian Spit. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with moving dunes, sandy shores, and wooded areas in the Baltic Sea, travelers all the way from Kiel, Germany, buy ferry tickets to Lithuania to come and witness this natural wonder.

Unlike the other Baltic nations, Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, is not a port town but situated inland. Known for its distinct architectural styles – from baroque to gothic, amusing street art, and a thriving craft beer scene, Vilnius demands a few days of exploration. While in town, stop by Užupis, an autonomous neighborhood with a quirky vibe, cool cafes, and a separate constitution. For beach lovers, Lituania’s resort towns of Palanga and Klaipėda are awash with family-friendly excursions like the Sea Museum, Klaipėda Castle, and the Museum of Clocks.

Once you’ve landed on the coast, having bought ferry tickets to Lithuania from Ferryscanner, remember that in true Baltic tradition, the country isn’t without its eccentricities. From the bust of Frank Zappa in Vilnius and the underground Plokštinė missile base to the Hill of Witches with eerie sculptures from Lithuania folklore, come prepared to be fascinated by a nation that is already capturing the traveling world’s curiosity.