With fantastic scenery and a rich history, Lithuania has become a tourist hotspot in Europe. And while there’s plenty to see across the country, did you know there’s plenty to taste, too?
Like many countries, one of the best ways to explore Lithuania is through your dinner plate! And with so many unique customs and ingredients, travelers can expect a truly unique culinary experience.
So what exactly can you expect to eat on your visit? And with lots of different dishes to choose from, which ones are simply too good to miss?
1. Cepelinai (zeppelins)
Fancy trying dumplings with an earthy twist? Then you need to try Cepelinai. These are potato dumplings stuffed with delicious meats, mushrooms, creams, and curds. They’re often topped with delightful bacon bits and garnishes for even more flavor.
Cepelinai, also called zeppelins because of their shape, are an incredibly filling meal. They’re perfect for sharing amongst friends, as it only takes one or two bites to leave you feeling satisfied.
2. Bulviniai blynai (potato pancakes)
Lithuania is known for its love of potatoes. But plenty of unique dishes put a spin on this staple ingredient. One such dish you must try is bulviniai blynai, which are delicious potato pancakes.
These pancakes are made with grated potatoes and diced onions and bound with egg and flour. They are often served with sour cream or applesauce and can be stuffed with delicious fillings.
3. Šaltibarščiai (pink soup)
Šaltibarščiai has become world-famous for its cool taste, health benefits, and signature appearance. It is pink soup, after all! Made from beetroots, cucumber, and kefir (fermented milk), it is a must-try dish in Lithuania.
The soup is often served with potatoes for dipping and a boiled egg for an extra bite. It is especially popular during the warm summer, acting as the perfect cool-down.
4. Kepta duona (Lithuanian breadsticks)
Are you looking for a light bite as you explore Lithuania? Then you need to try kepta duona. These are fried breadsticks with a beautiful taste and texture to nibble on as you walk down the street. They have been pan-fried and rubbed with garlic for a truly indulgent taste.
While kepta doona can be found nationwide, it is especially popular in bars and restaurants. You’ll often see it paired with beers and an assortment of tasty toppings and dipping sauces.
5. Šakotis (tree cake)
After all these hearty meals, it will be a challenge for many travelers to find room for dessert. But if you succeed, you should try Šakotis. Nicknamed the tree cake, this treat is made from butter, egg whites, flour, sugar, and cream.
A huge part of what makes this cake special is its unusual shape. This is down to how it is baked. As a “spit cake,” it is baked on a rotating spit, with layers of dough and batter placed one at a time. Expect an assortment of lovely sauces to add more sweetness to every bite.
Travel tips for Lithuania
If you’re traveling to Lithuania for the first time, you might wonder how best to prepare yourself. Below are some tips to keep in mind to make the of your upcoming adventure:
Best times to visit Lithuania
Although Lithuania can be visited at any time of the year, certain months might suit your plans better. Interested in warm weather and exploring a vibrant festival scene? Then, you should plan a summer vacation.
But if you want to explore the country’s countryside, go hiking, cycling, or fishing, it is best to aim for autumn. Then, the weather is cool and crisp, ideal for the outdoors.
Staying connected across Lithuania
One thing that catches many travelers off-guard when visiting Lithuania is connectivity. Especially if exploring the remote countryside, you might be outside of reliable network coverage.
An eSIM is a great way to guarantee seamless connectivity throughout your trip. It lets you easily change your network operator through a simple smartphone app.
By choosing the best eSIM in Europe, your smartphone can connect to the local networks across all of Lithuania. This way, you’ll be able to stay in touch with family and friends. You’ll also be able to research the best restaurants in your immediate area!
Places to visit in Lithuania
There are plenty of things to do and places to see in Lithuania. But if it’s your first time here, it can be difficult to know what places to visit. Some trip ideas that cover each area of the country include:
- Kernavė—Located in the southeast, this was the medieval capital of Lithuania. It has many historical sites where visitors can learn about the country’s rich history.
- Aukštaitija National Park—Located in the country’s northeast, this national park is a haven for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers.
- Hill of Crosses—Located in northern Lithuania, this pilgrimage site is steeped in national history. It symbolizes citizens fighting against Soviet rule from the 1830s to the 1960s.
A tasty trip through Lithuania
Lithuania is a country that offers travelers something truly unique. Besides beautiful scenery, towns, and cities, it also provides an amazing experience for food lovers.
From pink soup and potato dumplings to delicious street food, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to tasty foods to try! All the while, you’ll be learning about the country’s rich customs and unique culinary history.