Where is Lithuania Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated May 30, 2025

Where is Lithuania located on the map? Lithuania is an independent nation located in Northern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Lithuania on maps.

Lithuania Location in World Map

Lithuania is located in the northeast of Europe and is the southernmost of the three Baltic states. They are all on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. There are land borders with Latvia, Belarus, Poland and the Kaliningrad Oblast, which is part of Russia, i.e. the Kaliningrad administrative district.

Lithuania is one of the three Baltic states.

Location Information of Lithuania

Lithuania is a country located in the northeastern part of Europe, one of the three Baltic States, along with Latvia and Estonia. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant landscapes, Lithuania is bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east and south, Poland to the southwest, and Russia’s Kaliningrad Oblast to the west. The country also has a small coastline along the Baltic Sea to the west. Lithuania is one of the smallest countries in Europe, but its strategic location and rich historical heritage make it an important country in the region.

Latitude and Longitude

Lithuania is situated approximately between 53° and 56°N latitude and 20° and 27°E longitude. The country stretches across both flat plains and forested areas, with numerous rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Its capital city, Vilnius, lies at about 54.6892° N latitude and 25.2798° E longitude, centrally located in the southeastern part of the country.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Vilnius

Vilnius is the capital and largest city of Lithuania, with a population of over 580,000 people. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, near the borders with Belarus and Poland. Vilnius is an important cultural, economic, and political hub of Lithuania, and it boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town, which is one of the largest preserved medieval old towns in Europe. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, such as Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, and Vilnius University, which was founded in 1579.

Vilnius also serves as the center of Lithuanian government and administration. Its role in the country’s independence struggle and its vibrant arts scene contribute significantly to the nation’s identity.

Major Cities

Kaunas: Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of Vilnius. It has a population of approximately 300,000 people and is situated at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. Kaunas is an important industrial and academic center, with institutions such as the Vytautas Magnus University and numerous research centers. It is known for its modernist architecture, especially in the Kaunas Old Town and Ninth Fort. The city was also designated a European Capital of Culture in 2022.
Klaipėda: Klaipėda is the third-largest city in Lithuania and the country’s only seaport. Located on the Baltic Sea, it has a population of about 150,000 people. Klaipėda is an important hub for Lithuania’s maritime trade and tourism, with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city features a mix of old and modern architecture, with landmarks such as the Klaipėda Castle, the Lithuanian Sea Museum, and the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Šiauliai: Šiauliai is located in the northern part of Lithuania, with a population of about 100,000 people. The city is known for its significant role in Lithuania’s history, particularly as the site of the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site that has become a symbol of Lithuanian identity and resistance to foreign rule. Šiauliai is also an industrial and educational center, with a number of local industries and cultural institutions.
Panevėžys: Panevėžys is one of Lithuania’s oldest cities, situated in the northern part of the country. With a population of around 95,000, it is an important regional center for commerce, education, and culture. The city has a strong industrial presence, particularly in the fields of manufacturing and machinery. Panevėžys also hosts several cultural events, including the Panevėžys Theatre Festival.
Alytus: Alytus is a smaller city located in the southern part of Lithuania. It has a population of around 55,000 and is known for its proximity to nature, with surrounding forests and rivers. Alytus is an important administrative center in the region and has developed industries in food processing and textiles.

Time Zone

Lithuania operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2. During the summer months, Lithuania follows Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), which is UTC+3. Daylight saving time begins on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October, aligning with most European countries in the region.

Climate

Lithuania has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. The country’s climate is influenced by its location between the Baltic Sea and the East European Plain, with a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year.

Winter (December to February)

Lithuania’s winters are typically cold, with temperatures often falling below 0°C (32°F). Snow is common from December to February, and some years, it can accumulate significantly. The country’s inland areas experience colder temperatures compared to the coastal regions, which are moderated by the Baltic Sea.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Lithuania is generally cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). The season is marked by gradual warming, and rainfall is frequent, especially in April and May. Blossoming flowers and the return of migratory birds make this a particularly pleasant season for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Lithuania are mild, with temperatures typically between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), though heatwaves can occasionally push the mercury above 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the summer, and the long daylight hours make it an ideal time for outdoor festivals and activities.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) in September, and dropping further as the season progresses. Autumn is also the rainiest season, and the country’s forests become a stunning display of fall colors.

Economic Status

Lithuania has a highly developed, open economy, and it is one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union. The country’s economic transformation, following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1990, has been remarkable, with significant developments in industry, services, and trade. Lithuania is known for its strong financial sector, innovative technology companies, and growing tourism industry.

Industrial Sector: Lithuania has a diverse industrial base, with key sectors including manufacturing, machinery, chemicals, and food processing. The country is particularly known for its production of high-tech products, such as electronics and information technology services. Lithuania’s manufacturing sector also includes significant contributions from textiles, furniture, and metal products.
Agriculture: Agriculture remains an important part of Lithuania’s economy, though its share of GDP has declined in recent years. The country produces a wide variety of crops, including cereals, potatoes, and vegetables. Lithuania is also a significant producer of dairy products and meat.
Financial Services: Lithuania has a well-developed financial sector, with several major international banks and investment firms operating in the country. The country’s favorable tax policies and strong regulatory environment have made it an attractive destination for foreign investments. Vilnius, the capital, has become a significant fintech hub in recent years, attracting startups and talent in the technology sector.
Tourism: Tourism has become an increasingly important sector of the Lithuanian economy, contributing to job creation and economic growth. The country’s rich cultural heritage, medieval towns, national parks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites draw millions of visitors every year.
Trade: Lithuania’s location at the crossroads of Europe makes it a strategic trade hub. The country is an active member of the European Union and the World Trade Organization. Lithuania exports a range of goods, including machinery, textiles, food products, and chemicals, to markets around the world.

Tourist Attractions

Lithuania is home to a variety of attractions that reflect its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

1. Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and impressive churches. Key landmarks include Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, and the Gate of Dawn. The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and cafes, making it a vibrant destination for travelers.

2. Trakai Castle

Located on an island in Lake Galvė, about 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Vilnius, Trakai Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lithuania. The 14th-century castle is surrounded by stunning natural scenery and offers a glimpse into the country’s medieval past. The castle is home to a museum with exhibits on Lithuania’s history and culture.

3. Curonian Spit

The Curonian Spit is a narrow strip of land that stretches along the Baltic Sea, known for its unique landscapes, sandy dunes, and lush forests. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is shared by Lithuania and Russia and is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and beach activities.

4. Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai is one of Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage sites. It is a hill covered with thousands of crosses, which symbolize the country’s Catholic faith and its history of resistance to foreign oppression. The Hill of Crosses is a powerful symbol of Lithuanian identity and spirit.

5. Palanga

Palanga is Lithuania’s premier seaside resort, located on the Baltic Sea coast. Known for its beautiful beaches, the Palanga Pier, and the Palanga Amber Museum, the town is a popular destination during the summer months. Visitors can also explore the nearby Birute Park, which features botanical gardens and a beautiful palace.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Lithuania for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Lithuania is part of the Schengen Area, which means that U.S. travelers can enter the country using just a valid U.S. passport without requiring a visa. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure from Lithuania.

For longer stays, or for purposes like employment or study, U.S. citizens will need to apply for the appropriate visa at the nearest Lithuanian consulate or embassy.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

New York City to Vilnius: The distance from New York City (JFK) to Vilnius (VNO) is approximately 4,700 miles (7,500 kilometers). A direct flight typically takes 9 to 10 hours.
Los Angeles to Vilnius: The distance from Los Angeles (LAX) to Vilnius is about 5,900 miles (9,500 kilometers). Flights from Los Angeles to Vilnius typically take 11 to 12 hours, depending on layovers and flight paths.

Lithuania Facts

Size	65,301 km²
Residents	2.79 million
Language	Lithuanian
Capital	Vilnius
Longest river	Memel (total length 937 km)
Highest mountain	Aukštojas (293 m)
Currency	Euro