Palanga

Palanga is the premier summer resort of Lithuania, stretching along the picturesque coast of the Baltic Sea with its famous sand dunes and pine forests. You can reach Palanga in various ways: by a direct flight, on a comfortable coach, or by car, while enjoying the views of the Baltic region. This cosy city is ideal for both a peaceful family holiday and an active weekend in nature.

The fastest way to reach the resort is by air: the city is served by its own Palanga International Airport (PLQ), receiving flights from Riga, London, Oslo, and other European cities. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the centre, making the transfer as quick and convenient as possible.

Alternatively, travellers sometimes choose to fly to the neighbouring Latvian city of Liepaja, located 69 km away, from where it is easy to travel by rented car or bus. Using the airports of Kaliningrad or Svetlogorsk for transit may currently involve complex border crossing logistics.

There is no direct railway connection to the resort, as there is no train station in Palanga itself. The best option for train enthusiasts is to travel to the nearest major railway hubs in Lithuania — Klaipeda or Kretinga, which have regular connections with Vilnius.

From these stations, you can reach the coast by shuttle taxi or bus in just 15–30 minutes. Routes via Liepaja or Russian cities are less convenient due to infrequent schedules or the need to cross borders.

Bus services are one of the most popular and economical ways to reach the coast, connecting the resort with most major cities in Lithuania and neighbouring Latvia. Comfortable coaches run regularly from Vilnius, Kaunas, and Riga, arriving at the modern bus station in the city centre.

The journey takes place on high-quality roads and allows you to enjoy picturesque landscapes, making the trip pleasant even over long distances. During the summer season, the number of trips increases, ensuring convenient logistics for tourists.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the Baltic coast at your own pace. The shortest and most convenient route runs from Latvian Liepaja: the distance is about 75 km, and the travel time will take just over an hour.

If you are considering a trip from the direction of Kaliningrad (245 km) or Svetlogorsk (287 km), be sure to take border control into account. Crossing the border can take a significant amount of time, so the actual travel time often exceeds the estimated 3.5–4 hours.

To ensure your holiday on the Baltic coast is flawless, it is worth noting a few local features and preparing for changeable weather. Here is a list of useful recommendations for guests of the city:

1. Clothing and Essentials: Even in the height of summer, the weather on the Baltic can be capricious. Be sure to bring a windproof windbreaker and a warm jumper for evening walks, as well as comfortable shoes for walking on the dunes.
2. Transport: Palanga is a compact city, ideal for walking. For trips covering slightly longer distances, the best choice is a bicycle — there is a magnificent network of cycle paths here.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, from family restaurants to ice cream kiosks, but keeping some cash for tips is helpful.
4. Health and Safety: The resort is very safe and is distinguished by clean air, which is beneficial for breathing. Tap water is clean, but tourists generally prefer purchasing bottled water.
5. Communication: The state language is Lithuanian. In the tourism sector, many people speak English and Russian fluently, so communication issues rarely arise.
6. Local Etiquette: Lithuanians value calmness and politeness. Loud conversations in public places are not encouraged, and it is customary to greet the shopkeeper when entering small shops.
7. What to Avoid: Strictly observe the flags on the beach. If a red flag is raised, swimming is categorically prohibited due to strong rip currents, which are dangerous even for professionals.
8. Additional Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the famous Amber Museum in the botanical park and watch the sunset on the pier — this is the hallmark of the resort.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor difficulties and fully enjoy the unique atmosphere and nature of the Lithuanian seaside.