Practical Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Palanga and Šventoji

By Beata Bruggeman-Sekowska

Planning your first trip to Palanga and Šventoji? These coastal towns in Lithuania offer a charming blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions and welcoming atmosphere. To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together essential tips to help you navigate the area with ease, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable stay.

1. Getting Around: Transportation Tips

Navigating Palanga and Šventoji is relatively simple, whether you’re exploring on foot, by bike, or via public transportation.

By Foot or Bike: Palanga is a pedestrian-friendly town, and many attractions are within walking distance. You can also rent bikes to explore scenic coastal paths connecting Palanga and Šventoji. This is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views.
Public Transportation: The local bus network connects Palanga with nearby cities and towns. If you’re traveling to Šventoji, a short bus ride or even a scenic walk along the coast will get you there.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are available in Palanga for quick and easy trips around the town and beyond. Make sure to download a local taxi app for convenient access to rides.
Car Rentals: If you’re planning to explore the broader region, renting a car might be a good option. Several car rental services are available in Palanga, giving you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions.

2. Best Apps and Online Resources for Travelers

Make the most of your trip with the right apps and resources:

Visit Palanga website and their social accounts on Facebook and Instagram: The official Visit Palanga website is invaluable tool for discovering local attractions, dining, and events. You’ll find up-to-date information on festivals, the best places to eat, and practical travel details. https://www.visit-palanga.lt/en/
Local Maps & Routes: Use Google Maps or Palanga Bike Routes like this: https://ltglink.lt/en/by-bike-towards-palanga-26-km to find your way around the town and plan scenic routes along the coast.
Translation Apps: While many locals speak English, downloading a translation app like Google Translate can be useful for communicating in more remote areas or understanding menus and signs.

3. What to Pack: Seasonal Essentials

Packing smart ensures you’re ready for all the weather and activities Palanga has to offer.

Summer (June-August): Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses for enjoying the sunny beach days. Don’t forget your swimwear and beach accessories. If you’re attending festivals, pack some dressy outfits for evening events.
Autumn (September-November): The weather can be a bit cooler, so bring layered clothing, a light jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking. The autumn months are perfect for enjoying coastal walks and visiting historical landmarks, so don’t forget a camera!
Winter (December-February): Winters can be chilly, so pack warm layers, a sturdy coat, gloves, and boots. Winter beach walks are beautiful but can be windy, so be prepared for the cold. You may also want to pack an umbrella just in case.
Spring (March-May): Spring brings mild temperatures, so pack a mix of light and layered clothing. A rain jacket is useful as spring showers are common, but it’s also the season for enjoying local festivals and outdoor activities.

4. Dining Out

Palanga and Šventoji are home to a wide range of dining options, from cozy cafés to upscale restaurants, and it’s important to know where to go for a taste of the local cuisine.

Try Lithuanian Delicacies: Don’t miss out on local dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and fresh seafood, especially from the Baltic Sea. Many restaurants along the beach and in the town center serve up authentic Lithuanian fare.
Kid-Friendly Options: Many restaurants in Palanga are family-friendly, offering kids’ menus and spacious areas.
More information about local food here: https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/savor-palangas-flavors-a-guide-to-local-cuisine-and-fresh-seafood/

5. Festivals and Events

Check the local calendar for exciting events during your stay, such as:

Smelt Festival (Palangos Stinta) (February): A fun, cultural celebration where you can enjoy local delicacies like smoked fish, live music, and traditional dances.
“George Take the Keys” (Jurginės) Festival ( April) marks the arrival of spring with folk music, dance, and symbolic rituals, where Saint George is said to “take the keys” to unlock the earth for the new season.
International Folk Festival ( September): A vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture, with performers from around the world.
More information about events: https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/experience-palanga-year-round-festivals-seasonal-fun-and-amber/
More information about Palanga all year round: https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/discover-palanga-a-pristine-baltic-escape-for-families-all-year-round/

6. Local Etiquette and Customs

Lithuanians are generally warm and welcoming, but it’s helpful to know a few customs:

Greetings: A simple “labas” (hello) will go a long way, and a firm handshake is a common greeting.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. If the service charge isn’t included in the bill, a 5-10% tip is typical.
Respect for Nature: Lithuanians are proud of their beautiful natural environment, so always dispose of trash properly and respect local wildlife.

7. Major Attractions and How to Navigate Them

To make your visit to Palanga and Šventoji even easier:

Palanga Sea Pier: Iconic and picturesque, it’s a must-see for stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
Palanga Amber Museum: Located within the Tiskevičius Palace, the Palanga Amber Museum is one of Lithuania’s most visited attractions. It boasts a world-class collection of over 30,000 amber pieces
Sculpture Park: Explore Lithuania’s art scene through outdoor sculptures set in beautiful green spaces.
Palanga Beaches: Palanga is home to some of the most beautiful beaches along Lithuania’s Baltic coast
Birutė Park: Birutė Park is a beautiful botanical garden in the heart of Palanga, perfect for a relaxing walk or a moment of peace
Birutė Hill: located within the park, offers sweeping views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding landscape
Spa: Whether you’re looking for stress relief, a luxurious spa retreat, or a peaceful break surrounded by nature, Palanga has everything needed for a wellness-focused getaway. More information about spa: https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/rejuvenate-by-the-sea-wellness-and-spa-escapes-in-palanga/
Šventoji Lighthouse: standing proudly at the mouth of the Šventoji River, the Šventoji Lighthouse has been a landmark for generations of Baltic Sea sailors.
For more attractions see: https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/top-11-must-see-attractions-in-palanga-and-sventoji/

Why Visit Palanga and Šventoji?

With these tips, you’re all set to enjoy Palanga and Šventoji, two coastal towns that offer a perfect blend of rich culture, breathtaking nature, and fun festivals year-round. Whether you’re savoring local delicacies, exploring cultural landmarks, or strolling along sandy beaches, your experience will be one to remember. Enjoy your stay in Palanga and Šventoji, where adventure and relaxation await around every corner!