Lithuania

Lithuania

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Republic of Lithuania borders the Baltic Sea in Eastern Europe, sharing borders with Latvia, Poland, Belarus and Russia. The population is about 3.5 million people. Lithuania's government is a parliamentary republic with a president serving as head of state and a prime minister serving as head of government.

Lithuania declared independence in 1918; however, the country was occupied by the Soviets and Nazi Germany during World War II and was integrated into the Soviet Union following the end of the war. In 1990, a year before the formal breakup of the Soviet Union, Lithuania became the first Soviet republic to declare independence. Lithuania gained membership in the European Union and NATO in 2004. While Lithuania was hit hard by the 2009 financial crisis, the government’s efforts to reform the economy and attract foreign investment have resulted in one of the fastest growing economies in Europe. Lithuania continues to shift towards a knowledge-based economy, with an emphasis on biotechnology.

Lithuania is known for its beautiful lakes and forests. The Curonian Spit National Park provides excellent trails and an opportunity to see elk, deer and avian wildlife, as well as great views of the dunes. The capital, Vilnius, is known for the architecture of its old town. Travellers looking for a summer seaside resort can visit Palanga, a city with a population of 10,000 that grows to 600,000 in July and August.

Currency LTL: Euro
Language Lithuanian
Capital Vilnius
Recent Alerts 1
Latest Alert July 13, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Lithuania (13 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Lithuania. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Lithuania through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Lithuania.

Rabies

Rabies occurs in Lithuania. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis occurs in Lithuania. Travellers to Lithuania are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

There is a possible risk of tick-borne encephalitis in some areas of the country below 1,400 meters. The areas mainly affected are Kaunas county in central Lithuania and Panevezys and Siauliai counties in the north. The transmission season varies, however, and ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn (March to November).

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Lithuania.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Rabies Vaccine

Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) who may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk and should be vaccinated.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

Travellers are at risk via exposure to ticks during outdoor activities in areas of vegetation (gardens, parks, forest fringes, meadows and marshes). Campers, hikers, bikers, and adventure travellers should consider obtaining a vaccination against this disease.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Lithuania.

None required.

Safety and Security in Lithuania

Emergency Numbers

112
1414 Roadside assistance

Personal Safety

The level of crime in Lithuania is low. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching does occur in crowded areas, bars and restaurants. Travellers should be aware of their surroundings and personal valuables at all times. The risk of being mugged is particularly elevated at night, especially near bars and nightclubs. Avoid walking alone in parks, poorly lit areas, parking lots, side streets and alleys.

Seek recommendations for bars and clubs from trustworthy sources. Vilnius police publish a list of clubs where they have received the highest number of reported crimes. There have been reports of drink spiking, therefore, do not accept food and drink from strangers in bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Be aware that foreign tourists have been charged exorbitant prices for drinks and have had fraudulent transactions debited against credit or debit cards.

Drinking in public is illegal in Lithuania, and fines may apply.

Travelling at night in rural areas can be hazardous due to slow-moving horse-drawn carts, bicycles and vehicles travelling without tail lights or reflectors. During the winter, driving may be unsafe due to snowy and icy road conditions, especially in rural areas.

Use taxi services that are arranged by telephone. Avoid isolated ATMs after dark.

Same-sex behaviours are not illegal, however they are not socially tolerated. Members of the LGBTI community have experienced verbal and sometimes physical harassment.

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