How much does a trip to Lithuania cost? - 2026 Guide

Is Lithuania expensive for tourists?

Lithuania is incredibly affordable compared to its neighbors within Northern Europe. You'll spend a lot less here than you would in the West. These low costs make Lithuania an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers looking to stretch their dollar.

Hotels, food, and getting around are refreshingly manageable. Consequently, you can enjoy the country's highlights without overspending.

Lithuania Travel Cost Breakdown

What currency is used in Lithuania?

Lithuania uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, adopted in January 2015 to replace the Litas. Since Lithuania adopted the Euro, you can skip the exchange counters entirely if you're arriving from the Eurozone. Visitors from elsewhere can simply grab cash from ATMs for the best rates. Speaking from experience, those airport exchange kiosks rarely offer a fair deal. You'll still want to carry small amounts of cash for smaller tourist sites and local services that don't accept cards.

Getting into Lithuania is straightforward for many international visitors. If you're American, you don't need a visa for stays not exceeding 90 days. It's also smart to check if your travel insurance covers theft during the trip.

How much do flights to Lithuania cost?

Flight prices to Lithuania are generally reasonable. The median cost for round-trip flights from the United States averages approximately $452. If you're traveling on a strict budget, you can secure one-way deals starting as low as $195.

Three main airports handle international flights:

• Vilnius Airport (VNO) is the main hub with the most extensive network of traditional carriers.
• Kaunas International Airport (KUN) is frequently the most cost-effective option due to its focus on low-cost airlines.
• Palanga International Airport (PLQ) offers access to the coast but typically is pricier due to limited connections.

Always check both airports to see which one saves you money.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Lithuania?

Timing is everything when booking flights. November offers the best value, with data showing a potential 13% price drop. Trust me, the extra layers you'll need to pack are worth the savings. However, July is the most expensive month due to high demand.

If you fly during this peak summer period, you'll typically face a 24% price hike. Plan around these dates, and you could significantly lower your expenses.

What are the accommodation costs in Lithuania?

Accommodation costs in Lithuania are notably affordable within the Baltic region. A one-week stay for two people averages around 551.65 Euros—roughly what you might pay for just two nights in a standard New York hotel. Such affordability makes it an exceptional choice for budget travelers.

You can pick from everything from standard hotels to self-catered apartments. You'll often find value in staying at local guesthouses or renovated apartment blocks dating back to the 1960s and 1970s. This variety makes it easy to stick to your budget without sacrificing comfort while experiencing authentic local living.

How much do hotels and hostels cost in Vilnius and Kaunas?

Accommodation prices differ by location, with Vilnius typically costing more than Kaunas. As the capital and primary travel hub, Vilnius presents higher costs for both hotels and hostels. Kaunas is a cheaper alternative where you can often secure lower prices for similar quality stays.

Both cities provide diverse options ranging from dormitory-style hostels to comfortable mid-range hotels. Of course, lodging will likely be the biggest chunk of your weekly travel budget.

How much does public transportation cost in Lithuania?

Public transportation in Lithuania is exceptionally affordable. Single rides generally cost 1 Euro or less. Vilnius and Kaunas have great bus and trolley systems. A single paper ticket purchased directly from the driver costs exactly EUR 1.00—less than an inexpensive cup of coffee back home.

Save even more by using electronic ticketing systems instead of cash. I strongly recommend downloading the local 'Trafi' app to handle these purchases instantly. As reported by LRT, an electronic ticket typically costs EUR 0.65 for a 30-minute ride. Taxis are another option for specific routes, with rates in Vilnius and Kaunas averaging approximately EUR 0.50 per kilometer. With fares this low, it's economical and easy to get around.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Lithuania?

Renting a car is a great budget option. Daily rates typically average around 30 Euros. This makes it easy to visit remote landmarks such as the Hill of Crosses. If you land at Kaunas International Airport (KUN) or Palanga International Airport (PLQ), you might choose car rental services to explore the countryside at your own pace.

How to stay connected: why is an eSIM recommended for Lithuania?

You'll need data for maps and staying in touch while exploring the Baltic states. Traditional roaming charges often inflate daily travel expenses significantly. We recommend using an eSIM to access mobile data plans in Lithuania because it's cost-effective and convenient.

You can easily purchase a dedicated eSIM card for Lithuania to get online right away upon landing. Going digital eliminates the need to physically swap SIM cards or visit local kiosks. Fixed upfront prices help you manage your travel costs effectively. It's the easiest way to stay online without hidden fees throughout your trip.

How much does food and dining cost in Lithuania?

Dining out in Lithuania is surprisingly inexpensive compared to Western European standards. Numbeo data shows the average cost for a standard lunch is approximately EUR 5.70 per person. This keeps your daily spending low while exploring cities like Vilnius and Kaunas.

Traditional Lithuanian cuisine features a lot of potato-based dishes that are both filling and budget-friendly. Examples include cepelinai (stuffed potato dumplings) and savory potato pancakes. You haven't truly visited Lithuania until you've tried—and likely struggled to finish—these heavy, delicious dumplings. A three-course dinner for two people typically costs around 40 to 50 Euros in a mid-range restaurant. For comparison, that entire three-course meal costs less than a single steak entrée in London. You can generally allocate between 15 and 25 Euros per day for meals, so food won't take up much of your budget.

What are the prices for groceries and alcohol?

Buying your own groceries can save you a ton if you aim to lower daily expenses. Grocery prices generally run 30% to 50% lower than in many Western European countries. Here's what you'll pay for the basics:

• A loaf of fresh bread costs approximately 1 Euro.
• A liter of milk averages EUR 1.10.
• A kilogram of local cheese typically costs around 8 Euros.

Alcohol prices in supermarkets are also reasonable compared to bars and restaurants. A 0.5-liter bottle of domestic beer costs about EUR 1.20, and a decent mid-range bottle of wine ranges between 6 and 8 Euros. Cooking for yourself is a smart way to keep costs down by eating out less.

What are the costs for attractions and sightseeing?

Sightseeing won't cost you much either. Most historical landmarks and cultural sites are either free to enter or charge a nominal fee, which keeps your trip budget-friendly.

The famous Hill of Crosses is free to access, though you will need to budget for a bus or train ticket from Šiauliai to reach the site. Just be sure to check the return bus schedule before you go, as rural transport can be infrequent. However, specific monuments in Vilnius require paid tickets. The Gediminas Castle Tower charges an admission fee for entry to its museum and observation deck. Cash payments are often required at smaller venues or for specific services like funiculars. Overall, sightseeing expenses typically represent a small fraction of your daily budget.

How much money do you need per day in Lithuania?

A realistic daily budget in Lithuania is approximately 40 Euros. According to Nomadic Matt, average daily travel expenses hover around EUR 39.40 per person. This covers essential costs including shared accommodation, local transportation, and meals.

A standard 5-day trip typically amounts to around 200–250 Euros, depending on your dining choices. This proves that the cost of a vacation to Lithuania is significantly lower than in many Western European destinations. If you stick to this budget, you'll experience a comfortable trip without excessive luxury. Managing travel costs is straightforward due to affordable pricing for food and entry fees, making Lithuania a perfect spot for an economical getaway.

Sources

• https://www.lrt.lt/en/news-in-english/19/2504588/vilnius-council-approves-increase-in-public-transport-fares
• https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Lithuania
• https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/lithuania-travel-guide/