Lithuania offers up a diverse range of shopping options and has some fantastic items that will make the perfect gift or souvinir to remind you of your time in this picturesque country. One cannot visit Lithuania without purchasing some gintaras or amber. Other popular items include wood carvings, paintings and linen.
Along with tasting the delectable local cuisine and experiencing the local culture, shopping in Lithuania will be a great memory of your Lithuanian holiday. Check out the local Lithuania shopping scene in our destinations below, along with some tips for traditional Lithuanian souvenirs and gifts!
- Vilnius
- Klaipeda
Lithuanian Shopping Guide
For a country steeped in a rich cultural heritage, it is no surprise that there exist innumerable shopping areas that cater to the needs and interests of traders and visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the most interesting shopping areas in Lithuania.
Shopping Centres
Akropolis
Akropolis is Lithuanians first one-stop shopping centre attracting more than 13 million visitors every year. The biggest shopping centre in Vilnius, it is has a large selection of international and national stores. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from bus and train services, and with over 3500 car spaces, getting to the store is quick and easy. With over 90 stores, an 8 cinema multiplex, 20 lane bowling alley and an icerink a shopping experience at Akropolis is fun for the whole family.
The complex is open from 8am - 12pm daily.
Europa
One of Vilnius' modern and sophisticated shopping centres is Europa, an American style mall spread over three levels, housing over eighty stylish shops. There are four cafes and five restaurants and a children room to keep the children entertained while you shop. Parking is easy with 7 level of car parking available, and the first two hours of parking are free!
The complex is open from 8am - 12pm daily.
Markets
Pilles Street Markets
Piles Street Markets is one of the popular pedestrian street locations in Lithuania where market traders from all parts of Lithuania gather at the Kaziukas fair to sell the latest, handcrafted wares. In fact, no tourist leaves Lithuania without purchasing gifts or souvenirs from the Town Hall Square or other small shops around it in Vilnius.
Gariunai Market
If you want a taste of the largest open-air market on the Baltic Coast, then Gariunai Market is the place to go, where thousands of merchants gather on weekends. All kinds of goods like clothes, music, shoes and software are available here. For those on a low budget Gariunai Market is a must-see; however, quality doesn't come cheap.
Shopping Districts
Klaipeda
Klaipeda is a chief shopping centre that boasts of quality goods. BIG, Arena, Akropolis and Studlendas are the main shopping centres here. Cruise ship tourists find good bargains in Klaipeda.
Kaunas
Kaunas is considered to be a city of shopping centres, and symbolises the ‘mall culture,' something new to Lithuania. Don't miss a walk through the shop-lined Laisvės Avenue.
Souvenirs
Coming to Lithuania and going away without souvenirs is just not possible. Some of the souvenirs easily available are Amber, Linen and Liqueurs.
Amber
Even though expensive, amber jewellery is one of the most popular souvenirs from Lithuania. Amber rings, bracelets and necklaces are to be found in plenty. If you are fortunate, you could get an amber fossil with an insect trapped within it.
Linen
For those on a shoestring budget, linen dresses and jackets also serve as nice souvenirs. Also available are beautiful embroidered tablecloths and napkins, as also bags and jumpers.
Liqueurs
Those wanting a sip of the national drink of Lithuania can go for the ‘Lithuanian mead' that is pleasant and made from herbs known as ‘Krupnikas.' Visitors can also have a taste of the strong honey-based liqueur or the multi-fruit-based ‘Dainava' or ‘Palanga'.
No country is complete without its shopping malls and souvenirs. The same can be said of Lithuania. All you have to do is pick and choose wisely.