Vilnius is a perfect base for exploring Lithuania’s natural wonders. Its central location means you can easily visit a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to sandy dunes, all within a day trip. We especially love the Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park tour, which combines scenic nature with a quirky look at Soviet-era sculptures, and the Curonian Spit trip, which offers iconic sand dunes and UNESCO-listed scenery. These trips turn a city break into an outdoor adventure full of surprises.
If you’re curious about Lithuanian nature, history, or just want a break from the city, these tours deliver. They focus on different interests—whether it’s the cultural oddity of Grutas Park, the wildlife of Aukstaitija, or the stunning landscapes of the Curonian Spit. And because each is a full-day experience, you’ll come home with fresh stories and great photos.
Quick Overview
This list features three top-rated national park tours from Vilnius. The first takes you to Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park, blending forest hikes with Soviet sculptures. The second heads to Aukstaitija National Park, known for lakes and ethnographical museums. The third offers an immersive day at the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering dunes and charming villages. Each tour provides a unique window into Lithuania’s diverse natural and cultural landscape. For more detail, check out the tours here: Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park, Vilnius to Aukstaitija National Park, and From Vilnius: Day Trip to Curonian Spit National Park.
1. Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park: Full-Day Tour
At number one, this full-day private trip offers a well-rounded look at southern Lithuania’s natural beauty and history. The tour includes visits to the Pyramid of Merkine, the Cepkeliai Marsh, and the Liskiava Monastery, combined with the fascinating Grutas Park, famous for its Soviet-era sculptures. The tour’s allure lies in its variety: forest walks, marshland exploration, and an outdoor museum featuring statues of Lenin, Stalin, and other communist figures.
What makes this trip stand out is the personal touch of a professional guide who takes you off the usual tourist trail. Guests frequently comment on how Exsile, the guide, finds hidden spots like the Natura 2000 bog, and makes the day both educational and fun. The Soviet sculptures at Grutas Park provide an odd, thought-provoking contrast to the lush countryside and are a photo opportunity you won’t forget. The tour’s 8-hour duration makes it perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Lithuania’s rural landscape.
Bottom Line: This tour balances nature, history, and a little bit of the bizarre, ideal for curious travelers who like a mix of outdoor scenery and cultural oddities.
2. Vilnius to Aukstaitija National Park: Full-Day Tour
Coming in at number two is a full-day private trip to Aukstaitija National Park, Lithuania’s oldest and one of its most scenic. This tour focuses on lakes, forests, and traditional museums, including the Museum of Ancient Beekeeping and the Museum of Ethnocosmology—a quirky place dedicated to Lithuania’s folk beliefs about the universe. Highlights include stops at Labanoras Regional Park, the Ginuciai watermill, and the Paluse village.
The guide takes great care to tailor the experience, accommodating family needs or specific interests. Guests mention the trip’s relaxed pace, with stops at two lakes suitable for swimming, and the chance to buy homemade Lithuanian cookies. This tour is perfect for those wanting to see Lithuania’s natural landscapes without the crowds—plus, the guide’s Russian language skills have earned positive reviews.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and families seeking a peaceful day exploring lakes, forests, and local traditions, all capped with authentic Lithuanian treats.
3. From Vilnius: Day Trip to Curonian Spit National Park
At number three, this long but rewarding 14-hour tour explores the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its shifting sand dunes, pine forests, and picturesque fishing villages. Formed over 5,000 years ago, the spit’s landscape is a natural marvel. The tour includes stops at Nida, with its charming streets and traditional architecture, and the Parnidis Dune, where you can climb the tallest sand dune in Europe.
What sets this trip apart is the opportunity to learn about local Lithuanian sagas and fairy tales, woven into the storytelling during the drive and stops. The windblown dunes and bright pine forests are breathtaking, and the tour offers an authentic taste of coastal life. Reviews highlight the punctuality of the guide and engaging stories that bring the landscape to life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full immersion in one of Lithuania’s most iconic landscapes, and don’t mind a long day on the road.
How to Choose
When deciding between these top tours, consider your interests and time. If diverse scenery and quirky history appeal to you, the Dzukija and Grutas Park tour offers a rich experience. For a peaceful lakes and forests escape with cultural touches, Aukstaitija is perfect. If you’re drawn to coastal dunes and UNESCO sights, then the Curonian Spit day trip is the way to go.
Think about your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend traveling. The Dzukija and Aukstaitija tours are shorter and more manageable for a day, while the Curonian Spit trip is longer but offers unmatched scenery. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Vilnius’s proximity to Lithuania’s parks makes it an excellent hub for day trips. Whether you’re after forest walks, museum visits, or sand dunes, there’s a tour to match your interests. The Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park tour is perfect for those seeking a mix of nature and offbeat history, while Aukstaitija appeals to outdoor lovers and families. The Curonian Spit trip is ideal if you want to see one of Europe’s most stunning coastal landscapes.
Each of these tours offers a different taste of Lithuanian nature and culture, and booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out. No matter which you choose, these trips will add a memorable outdoor dimension to your Vilnius visit.