Hey there, fellow nomads! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination for your next backpacking trip, look no further than Lithuania. This stunning Baltic country offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, and can be explored for under $15 a day. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience and tips for backpacking in Lithuania on a broke budget for two weeks.
Day 1-2: Vilnius
- Accommodation: Stay at the Vilnius Hostel (dorm bed from $10/night) or camp at the Vilnius Camping Site ($5/night)
- Food: Try traditional Lithuanian cuisine at the local markets (meal from $3) or grab a bite at the budget-friendly restaurant, Bistro 18 (meal from $5)
- Attractions: Explore the historic Old Town (free), visit the Vilnius Cathedral (free), and stroll through the beautiful Bernardine Park (free)
Day 3-4: Trakai
- Transportation: Take the bus from Vilnius to Trakai ($2)
- Accommodation: Stay at the Trakai Hostel (dorm bed from $12/night) or camp at the Trakai Camping Site ($5/night)
- Food: Enjoy traditional Karaim cuisine at the local restaurant, Kybynlar (meal from $5)
- Attractions: Visit the stunning Trakai Island Castle ($5), explore the Trakai Historical National Park (free), and take a boat tour of the lake ($10)
Day 5-6: Kaunas
- Transportation: Take the bus from Trakai to Kaunas ($3)
- Accommodation: Stay at the Kaunas Hostel (dorm bed from $10/night) or camp at the Kaunas Camping Site ($5/night)
- Food: Try traditional Lithuanian cuisine at the local markets (meal from $3) or grab a bite at the budget-friendly restaurant, Reallas (meal from $5)
- Attractions: Explore the historic Old Town (free), visit the Kaunas Castle (free), and stroll through the beautiful Laisvės Alėja (free)
Day 7-8: Klaipėda
- Transportation: Take the bus from Kaunas to Klaipėda ($4)
- Accommodation: Stay at the Klaipėda Hostel (dorm bed from $12/night) or camp at the Klaipėda Camping Site ($5/night)
- Food: Enjoy seafood at the local restaurant, Žuvėdra (meal from $8)
- Attractions: Explore the historic Old Town (free), visit the Klaipėda Castle (free), and take a stroll along the beautiful Klaipėda waterfront (free)
Day 9-14: Aukštaitija National Park
- Transportation: Take the bus from Klaipėda to the Aukštaitija National Park ($5)
- Accommodation: Camp at the Aukštaitija National Park Camping Site ($5/night)
- Food: Cook your own meals at the campsite or try traditional Lithuanian cuisine at the local restaurant, Žemaitiu smukle (meal from $5)
- Attractions: Hike through the stunning Aukštaitija National Park (free), explore the beautiful lakes and forests, and take a dip in the nearby hot springs ($5)
Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $10-12/night (average)
- Food: $3-5/meal (average)
- Transportation: $2-5/trip (average)
- Attractions: mostly free or $5-10/entrance (average)
Total daily budget: $15
Transportation
Getting around Lithuania is relatively easy and affordable. Here are your options:
- Buses: An extensive network of buses connects major cities and towns. Tickets are cheap (around €1-2) and can be purchased on board or at kiosks.
- Trains: Trains are a comfortable option for longer distances. Prices vary depending on the route, but you can expect to pay around €10-20 for a one-way ticket.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on the price before you start your journey.
- Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt are popular in major cities.
- Car rental: If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available at airports and cities.
- Biking: Lithuania has a growing cycling infrastructure, and many cities offer bike rentals.
Nightlife
Lithuania’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, with something for every taste and budget. Here are some hotspots:
- Vilnius: The capital city is home to a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Try the trendy Užupis neighborhood or the Old Town for a night out.
- Kaunas: This student town has a lively atmosphere, with many bars and clubs along the Laisvės Alėja.
- Klaipėda: The coastal city has a more relaxed vibe, with many bars and clubs along the waterfront.
Some popular nightlife spots include:
- Opium (Vilnius): A popular club with live music and DJs.
- Kablys (Kaunas): A student favorite with cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere.
- Kurpiai (Klaipėda): A beachside bar with live music and stunning views.
Food
Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and delicious, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional dishes. Be sure to try:
- Cepelinai: Zeppelins made from grated potatoes and filled with meat or cheese.
- Kibinai: Meat-filled pastries similar to empanadas.
- Šaltibarščiai: A cold beet soup perfect for hot summer days.
- Lakotėlis: A traditional Lithuanian cake made with poppy seeds and honey.
Some popular food spots include:
- Žemaičių smuklė (Vilnius): A cozy restaurant serving traditional Lithuanian dishes.
- Bistro 18 (Kaunas): A modern bistro with a focus on local ingredients.
- Gintaras (Klaipėda): A seafood restaurant with fresh catches and stunning views.
In conclusion, Lithuania offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, with a vibrant nightlife scene and delicious local cuisine. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the country’s transportation options, enjoy the best of the nightlife, and indulge in the local food scene. Happy travels!
Tips and Tricks:
- Cook your own meals at the campsite or hostel to save money
- Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible
- Avoid touristy restaurants and opt for local markets or budget-friendly eateries
- Take advantage of free attractions and explore the great outdoors
Conclusion:
Backpacking in Lithuania for two weeks on a broke budget is not only possible but also an incredible adventure. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals, Lithuania is a must-visit destination for any budget-conscious traveler. So pack your bags, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore this amazing country without breaking the bank!
