Lithuania Travel Safety

Precautions

Walk only along main roads and sidewalks. At night, avoid walking alone in parks, poorly lit areas, parking lots and side streets and alleys, particularly in the Central Station, Naujininkai, Old Town and neighbourhoods of Vilnius. Car theft and theft from cars occurs. New and luxury cars are targets of choice. Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, and use secure parking facilities, especially overnight. Individuals have been harassed for reasons of race or foreign-looking appearance.

Road safety

Roads are generally in good condition but lanes are not always clearly marked. Travelling at night in rural areas can be hazardous due to slow-moving horse-drawn carts, bicycles and vehicles travelling without taillights or reflectors on poorly lit streets and highways. Be cautious as drivers can be aggressive. Winter driving can be dangerous. Dial 1414 for roadside assistance.

Rail transportation

Rail service is generally slow. While some trains have been updated, others are old and uncomfortable. Safeguard your personal belongings when travelling on overnight international trains.

Public transportation

Taxis are inexpensive. Use only officially marked taxis from taxi stands or reputable hotels. To avoid being overcharged, obtain a price estimate in advance and ensure that the taxi driver is using the meter. Always ask for a receipt. Frequent bus and air services link Lithuania to neighbouring countries.

Women's safety

Lithuania is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise increased caution throughout your travel.

Fraud

Avoid invitations by strangers to visit local bars. This is usually a ploy to overcharge customers for drinks. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Credit card fraud occurs, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. When using your card, ensure that it remains in view and that you retain your transaction copy along with the carbon paper, should there be one.

Crime

The crime rate is low, however, violent crime, including mugging, does occur. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs, particularly on public transport and in bars and restaurants. Foreigners are often targeted in less populated areas after dark.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. This may be of particular concern at bus and railway stations.

LGBT

While not illegal, homosexuality is less tolerated rather accepted in Lithuanian society. LGBT travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas. There are isolated incidents of homophobic related crimes.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines. Possession of even very small quantities can lead to imprisonment or heavy fines. Don't become involved with drugs.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. Car insurance is mandatory. Border officials may request that you show them original documents. Low-beam lights must be on throughout the year. Headlights must be on at all times from September 1 to April 1. Winter or all-season tires are required from November 10 to March 31. Studded tires are not allowed from April 10 through October 31. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.04 percent for experienced drivers and 0 percent for new drivers, motorcyclists, taxi drivers and truck drivers. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, their driver's licence may be suspended and their vehicle may be confiscated. The use of seat belts is mandatory. Children younger than three years old must be seated in a car seat located in the back seat. Children younger than 12 or less than 150 cm tall cannot travel in the front seat. The police are not required to respond to minor road accidents where there are no injuries to persons and both parties agree that police are not needed. In case of disagreement, do not move the vehicle(s) until the police arrive.