Full Description
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 Stay in spa resorts in Druskininkai, Birstonas or Palanga, where Soviet sanatoriums have been replaced by indulgent wellness centres.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.
Contents
Introduction viii
PART ONE GENERAL INFORMATION
Chapter 1 Background Information
Geography, Climate, Natural history and conservation, History, Government and politics, Economy, People, Language, Religion and beliefs, Education, Culture
Chapter 2 Practical Information
When to visit, Highlights, Suggested itineraries, Tourist information and tour operators, Red tape, Getting there and away, Health, Safety, Travelling with a disability, LGBTQIA+ travellers, Travelling with kids, What to take, Money and budgeting, Getting around, Accommodation, Eating and drinking, Public holidays and festivals, Shopping, Arts and entertainment, Opening times, Media and communications, Cultural etiquette, Travelling positively
PART TWO THE GUIDE
Chapter 3 Vilnius
History, Getting there and away, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Entertainment and nightlife, Shopping, Sports and activities, Other practicalities, What to see and do
Chapter 4 Around Vilnius
Trakai Historical National Park, Traku Voke, Paneriai, Kernave, North of Vilnius, Medininkai
Chapter 5 Dzukija
Druskininkai, Dzukija National Park, Northeast Dzukija, Western Dzukija
Chapter 6 Kaunas and around
Kaunas, Kedainiai, Nemunas River Valley, South of the Nemunas River, Birstonas
Chapter 7 Aukstaitija
Anyksciai, Utena, Moletai, Around Moletai, Aukstaitija National Park, Visaginas, Zarasai, Around Zarasai, Rokiskis, Birzai, Panevezys, Ukmerge
Chapter 8 Zemaitija
Siauliai, Joniskis, Zagare, Northern Zemaitija, Zemaitija National Park, Plunge, Telsiai
Chapter 9 The Coast
Palanga, Around Palanga, Klaipeda, Around Klaipeda, The Curonian Spit, South of Klaipeda
Appendix 1 Language
Appendix 2 Further Information
Index
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