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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Lithuania

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Vilnius International Airport (VNO) is Lithuania's largest civil airport, located approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) south of the city center. Its proximity makes for a quick and easy transfer to your accommodation.

Airlines & Routes

  • Major Airlines: Ryanair, Wizz Air, airBaltic, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, SAS, Turkish Airlines, Finnair, Austrian Airlines.
  • Typical Routes: Direct flights mainly link Vilnius to major European hubs.
  • Flight Deals: Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

VNO is a modern and compact airport. It has one main terminal. This simplifies transfers inside the airport. The airport presents a range of facilities.

Transfers to City

  • Bus: Regular services (Route 1) and express route to Vilnius Railway/Bus Station (10-15 min, approx. €1.00-€1.20).
  • Train: Dedicated line to Vilnius Railway Station (7-8 min, approx. €0.70). Less frequent than buses.
  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Taxis outside arrivals (€15-€25). Bolt is popular and often more affordable (€8-€15).

High Season Summer

More direct routes, higher frequency. Flight prices are highest. Booking 3-6 months out yields better fares.

Low Season Winter

Fewer direct routes, lower frequency. Prices typically lower, excluding Christmas/New Year.

Airport Services

Duty-free, restaurants, cafes, car rental desks, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, lounges. VAT refund services for non-EU residents.

Long-Haul Connections

Hubs for Connections

  • Frankfurt (FRA), Germany: A major Lufthansa hub with extensive global links.
  • Warsaw (WAW), Poland: LOT Polish Airlines has good links from North America and Asia.
  • Riga (RIX), Latvia: airBaltic's main hub, having links across Europe.
  • London (LHR/STN), UK: Has links via various airlines.

More Connection Points

  • Helsinki (HEL), Finland: A Finnair hub with strong links to Asia.
  • Most intercontinental travelers connect through a major European hub.
  • Search for flights that route through these cities for efficient long-haul journeys.
  • Direct flight options from outside Europe are limited.

Travel Tip for Air

Ticket Purchase

For budget and ease, use the Trafi app to buy your bus ticket or select Bolt from the airport.

Check-in

Online check-in is recommended. Bag drop-off counters usually close 45-60 minutes before departure.

Security & Passport

Standard security applies. Passport control for non-Schengen flights. Have passport and boarding pass ready.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Vilnius Railway Station is the major hub for both national and international train links. It is centrally located.

Routes & Operator

  • National: Frequent services to Kaunas (1h 15m), Klaipėda (3.5-4h), Trakai (30-40m), Šiauliai.
  • International: Direct services to Riga (Latvia). Links to Warsaw (Poland), sometimes with border changes.
  • Operator: Lietuvos Geležinkeliai (LTG Link). Check schedules and purchase tickets online or at the station.

Long-Distance Buses

Vilnius Bus Station, next to the railway station, is the central hub for domestic and international bus routes. It is a large, modern station.

Routes & Companies

  • National: Extensive network covers all major Lithuanian cities and towns.
  • International: Frequent services to Riga, Tallinn. Links to Warsaw, Berlin, and other European cities.
  • Companies: Major ones like Lux Express, Ecolines, FlixBus, and local Lithuanian companies like Ollex.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car in Lithuania can give flexibility, especially for exploring areas outside Vilnius. Roads are generally well-maintained.

Requirements

  • Valid national driving license. IDP needed if your license is not in English.
  • Credit card for security deposit. Most companies want drivers aged 21-25+ (young driver surcharge may apply).
  • Car rental: DiscoverCars.com.

Driving Laws & Safety

Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Headlights must be on year-round, day and night.

Speed Limits & Parking

  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (urban), 90 km/h (rural), 110-130 km/h (motorways).
  • Parking: Paid parking in Vilnius city center (meters or apps like uniPark/m.Parking). Old Town parking is limited and expensive.
  • Winter Conditions: Winter tires are mandatory Nov 10 - April 1.

Border Crossing Notes

  • Schengen Area: Minimal or non-existent border controls when entering from another Schengen country.
  • Non-Schengen Borders: Standard passport and visa checks apply (e.g., Belarus, Kaliningrad).
  • These crossings can involve longer waiting times.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Vilnius is landlocked. No direct sea/river ferry services or cruise ports.
  • Lithuania's main seaport is Klaipėda; travel from there to Vilnius by bus or train.
  • Neris River is for recreational boating only, not public transport to the city.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes collect directly from passengers at Vilnius International Airport (VNO). These charges usually are part of the airfare you paid when booking your flight.

Timing & Check-in

  • Schengen Flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure.
  • Non-Schengen Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure (passport control).
  • Online check-in is recommended.

Airport/Station Facilities

VNO after security: duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange, ATMs, lounges (if eligible), VAT refund services.

Station Amenities

  • Vilnius Railway/Bus Station: Waiting areas, small shops, cafes, restrooms.
  • These are less extensive than airport facilities but have basic amenities.
  • Confirm your flight or train/bus schedule prior to travel. Allow extra time during peak seasons.

Arrivals

Prepare your passport, visa (if needed), and arrival documentation. Be ready for immigration questions.

Baggage Claim

Follow signs to baggage claim after immigration. Carousels are clearly marked.

Information Desks

Tourist information desks are available at the airport and main stations for assistance.

Getting Ready for Departure

Pre-Departure Checks

Review your travel documents and itinerary the day before departure.

Final Reminders

  • Confirm flight/train/bus schedule and departure gate/platform.
  • Settle any outstanding payments at accommodation.
  • Ensure all personal belongings are packed.

Airport Services

Vilnius International Airport offers various services to departing travelers.

Amenities & Assistance

  • Duty-free shops: Purchase souvenirs or international goods.
  • Restaurants and cafes: Options for a meal or snack before your flight.
  • VAT refund services: Available for non-EU residents.

Post-Security Facilities

Gate Information

Check display screens for up-to-date gate information and boarding times.

Waiting Areas

Comfortable seating areas are available near departure gates.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for your convenience.

Departure Readiness

Confirm your flight or train/bus schedule prior to travel. Allow extra time during peak seasons or if you have specific needs like VAT refunds or significant baggage.