In the rapidly shifting world of travel trends, Kayak reports that flight searches to Vilnius more than doubled—rising by 105% over last summer. Lonely Planet has ranked Lithuania as the second-best travel destination in the world for 2025, placing it right behind Cameroon, and crowning it the top country to visit in Europe this year.

One of the key reasons Lithuania is attracting global attention is its leadership in sustainability. Vilnius has been named the European Green Capital for 2025, a recognition that celebrates its commitment to environmental initiatives, its well-planned urban development, and its extensive green spaces—more than 60% of the city’s area. These efforts are part of a broader goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, making Vilnius one of Europe’s most forward-thinking capitals.

Lithuania offers a stunning range of landscapes and cultural treasures. The Curonian Spit National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with shifting sand dunes and dense pine forests. Spiritual history takes center stage at the Hill of Crosses, an awe-inspiring site adorned with tens of thousands of crosses left by pilgrims over generations.

Adding to its appeal, Lithuania’s culinary reputation is flourishing. In 2024, the country welcomed its first Michelin Guide, which awarded stars to four Lithuanian restaurants and recognized several others with Bib Gourmand distinctions. This recognition signals Lithuania’s rise as a gastronomic destination, where creative chefs are blending local traditions with innovative techniques.

Tourism is playing an increasingly important role in the nation’s economy. In 2023, international visitors generated around €1.7 billion, accounting for roughly 2.3% of GDP. Over 1.1 million international tourists visited that year, and domestic travel continues to grow, with Lithuanians themselves taking more than 12 million trips within the country.

Travelers often describe Lithuania as a hidden gem in the Baltic region—welcoming, authentic, and refreshingly free from overwhelming tourist crowds.

Lithuania’s presence among the most recommended destinations for 2025 is no accident. It combines the elegance of old Europe with an innovative, eco-conscious spirit, offers natural beauty that feels untouched, and invites visitors to discover its stories one cobblestoned street, one windswept dune, and one perfectly prepared meal at a time.

Read more