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News from the Baltics
BREAKING: Lithuania lifts self-isolation rule for travellers from 24 countries
Easing the lockdown measures, the Lithuanian government has approved that travellers coming from 24 European countries will not be subject to 14 days of self-isolation upon arrival.
The current “safe list” of countries includes Germany, Poland, France, Italy, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland.
More information you can find here
01 06 2020
Travel restrictions between Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania lifted
On 15 May the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania signed a Memorandum of Understanding on lifting travel restrictions between three Baltic Countries. The Governments have taken the decision to open the borders simultaneously and to restore freedom of movement for citizens and persons legally residing in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
The Foreign Ministers also adopted a joint statement on a reciprocal lifting of restrictions on movement in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From the very start of the crisis, the Baltic states have cooperated very closely with each other, exchanged information and worked together to help repatriate EU citizens.
Anyone arriving from outside the three states will be required to spend 14 days in quarantine.
For more information please visit urm.lt
21 05 2020
Portraits of the quarantine, Lithuania
Photo's: Go Vilnius
News about how the Lithuanian people are fighting a pandemic and helping each other has reached across Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, etc. Online platforms, newspapers, TV’s were attracted how in the first week of quarantine in Lithuania, thousands of volunteers in the capital of Vilnius stepped up: volunteers offered their help, entrepreneurs have raised large sums for medical equipment using just online messaging, and telecommunications companies provided resources to coordinate the joint effort. A public library in Kaunas using 3D printer makes an attachable door devices that can open them easily without gripping handles. BBC showed Portraits of Quarantine made by photographer Adas Vasiliauskas using drone. The photos let us see how people are spending their time in quarantine. For more information please visit here and here
01 04 2020
Vilnius: Amazing Wherever You Think It Is
February, 2020 Lithuanian capital launched a new campaign, titled “Vilnius: Amazing Wherever You Think It Is.” The campaign, which has a goal to celebrate all the amazing aspects of the city, is aimed at drawing tourists to visit Vilnius by making fun at how unknown the city is for most people outside the country.
For more information please visit whereisvilnius.com or contact us.
02 03 2020
Astrida Travel Participating at WTM, London
Together with other Lithuanian travel professionals we are participating at the World Travel Market London 2019.
Visit us at WTM stand EU1785 on 4-6 November, 2019 in London!
For more information please contact us.
30 10 2019
Lufthansa starting direct flights from Munich, Germany to Tallinn, Estonia
From November 2019 Lufthansa open direct flights from Munich to Tallinn. It will take place three times a week, on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
read more here : tallinn-airport.ee or contact us
05 09 2019
airBaltic starting flights fromTallinn to Malaga, Copenhagen and Brussels
From June 2019 airBaltic open new flights from Tallinn to Malaga, Copenhagen and Brussels. There will be two flights per week to Malaga , three to Brussels and four flights per week to Copenhagen.
Tallinn airport collaborates with 16 airlines and has direct flights to 27 destinations. In the summer season, the number of direct flights increases to 37.
For more information please visit airBaltic or contact us.
20 06 2019
The Arvo Pärt Centre near Tallinn, Estonia
Photograph by Tõnu Tunnel, Visit Estonia
Good news for music lovers. Famous Estonian composer Arvo Pärt has now center in the fishermen’s village Laulasmaa, 35 kilometers west from Tallinn. New Modern center was created by the Spanish architects. The building perfectly integrated into the beautiful landscape - pine forest near the Baltic Sea. In this center you can find composer’s archive and his office, an exhibition space, a concert hall, a library, a chapel.
Visitors can use the information system, which presents documents stored in the archive, watch films etc.
For more information please contact us
22 11 2018
Street Art in Vilnius
Vilnius is known for the mixture of architecture styles in its Old Town: the splendid architectural blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classical styles make this wonderful city to explore. But not only that. In the last decades Vilnius rapidly changed in to a modern cultural city. One of new signs – Street Art. Street Art spots you can find around city center. For more information please contact us
17 09 2018
Green Vilnius
Vilnius - the capital of Lithuania is well known as very green city built on several hills, which creates a beautiful and unique landscape. Besides tourist attractions, museums, unique baroque architecture, delicious food and cultural life there are a plenty of green parks, gardens and squares where you can escape from city rush. One of them is Bernardinai Garden – located next to Old Town with the river running through. There are walking trails, botanical exposition and plenty of lovely places to sit and relax. There are also parks and gardens located outside city center. You can follow tourist routs, rent a bike or climb the hill and watch spectacular view of green city, walleyes and rivers. For more information please contact us
28 06 2018
A new flights from London to Tallinn, Estonia
The Latvian airline airBaltic started new direct flights from London Gatwick Airport to Tallinn.
airBaltic fly 2 times weekly and last 2 hours and 50 minutes. Read more
25 04 2018
A new museum in Vilnius, Lithuania
In November will open the Samuel Bak Museum in Vilnius. Famous Litvak painter donated 54 his works to Lithuania. The museum will be housed in the Vilna Gaon State Jewish Museum.
10 11 2017
Lonely Planet announces Tallinn as the best value destination 2018
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is located in the North-Eastern part of the Baltic Sea region. Compact and picturesque Old Town is not a secret anymore for travelers. You can easily reach Tallinn with budget flights from around the Europe. Tallinn attracts visitors with number of great cafes and restaurants with traditional, international and vegan cuisine, hotels, dorms and guest houses. Kalamaja District is mentioned as “must visit” place –“ hipsterville” of Tallinn with truly Bohemian atmosphere.
27 10 2017
Surprisingly Beautiful Lithuania
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“The Hill of Crosses is unlike anything I’ve ever seen” – says travel blogger Elle Croft from The Travel Hack, a travel blog about stylish adventure travel.
“I’ve been to a lot of places in the world … but I’ve never been anywhere like the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. It’s partly eerie, partly intriguing, and completely, although admittedly strangely, beautiful.” – says the author.
Blogger visited not only Vilnius but also Curonian Peninsula, Klaipeda, Trakai Castle, North and North East of Lithuania. “The greenery seems to be overly saturated, the forests densely packed, the water blue and glassy, and the hills gentle and rolling.”
In her article “Lithuania: A Land of Surprises...” she writes also about incredible delicious food.
Lithuania – a destination full of surprises. It is perfect place to go there in any time of the year : in summer escape to the beautiful and a peaceful lakeside, and in winter – city break for a Christmas markets and culture life.
02 08 2017
Vilnius's Best Coffee
Sprudge - the worldwide leader in coffee news and culture, from Portland, Oregon, visited Vilnius, Lithuania and wrote about coffee spots to visit.
More about best coffee in Vilnius you can find here or contact us
20 07 2017
Good news from Tallinn, Estonia
In 2017 in Tallinn opening 5 new hotels: from budget hostels to luxury boutique.
Four star Centennial Hotel Tallinn by Unique Hotels
Luxury Royal Residence Boutique Hotel & SPA
Metropol Spa & Conference Hotel
Regent Hotel Tallinn
Welcome Hostel
All hotels are centrally located.
07 06 2017
Open Kitchen in Vilnius, Lithuania
Summer has its taste
Every Friday from 19th of May till 9th of September in Tymas market, next to Vilnius Old Town, there is a place where meets food lovers: restaurants, cafes, famous and new restaurant chefs, culinary experts. Under the open sky you can taste excellent food, buy produces direct from the farmers and handmade items from local artists and enjoy your stay in beautiful city. For more information please contact us.
01 06 2017
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia is among the least polluted capitals in the world.
According to a report by the World Health Organisation most polluted capitals – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, New Delhi, India, Doha, Qatar.
The British newspaper The Telegraph, using the report’s data announced The 10 cleanest capital cities on Earth, in which Tallinn - number 7, just ahead of Helsinki, Finland.
24 05 2017
Klaipėda, Lithiania – an Ice-Free Port of Culture 2017
Klaipėda always has been a beacon of culture in the region and the country.
Klaipeda starts this year as the Capital of Culture. An Ice-Free Port of Culture 2017 includes 5 platforms: History, Classics, Sea, Art and City.
Various culture and art projects will take place in the city’s major areas. For more information please contact us.
26 04 2017
Wild at Plate – 2017 Gourmet Year in Latvia
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Gastronomy events throughout the year in Riga, Sigulda, Cēsis and Valmiera.
A special role will be given to gastronomy during the festivals of all four cities: a restaurant weeks in Riga in May and October, in Sigulda in Apil and November, as well as in Valmiera. At the region’s restaurants, guests will be offered special menus, focusing on the ingredients and products available specifically in this region, and various masterclasses will be organized at the restaurants.
Tourists will be able to enjoy a variety of other events, such as the Gastronomy Film Festival, a Children’s Restaurant, the Music and Gastronomy Masterclass during the European Choir Games. Cēsis gastronomy will blend with art. Seasonal products will be the highlight of eight annual events.
04 04 2017
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Kaunas - the European Capital of Culture 2022
Kaunas, second largest city in Lithuania has been announced European Capital of Culture 2022. In 2009 - Vilnius, capital of Lithuania was European Capital of Culture.
04 04 2017
More flights from to Tallinn
Estonian national airline Nordica begins season with three destination: Hamburg, Gothenburg and St. Petersburg. Nordica will be flying three times a week to Hamburg between May 15 – October 3 and three times a week to Gothenburg from August 3. Flights to St. Petersburg begins on May 15 with two to three flights a day.
Read more here: news.err.ee or contact us
30 03 2017
Lithuanian Celebrates 100
Next Lithuanian Song and Dance Celebration will be held in July 2018. Six days event is a unique example to the whole world of how dances and songs unite the nation scattered all over the world. The great Lithuanian Art Olympics with a choir of 20 000 sounds, 9 000 dancers, the whole country with its variety of villages, towns, dialects, olds songs, dances, arts, foods and other traditions. The Lithuanian Song Festival has been added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Song and Dance Festival 2018 dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the restoration of the Lithuanian State.
For more information please visit http://www.dainusvente.lt/en/ or contact us
23 03 2017
St. Casimir Fair in Vilnius, Lithuania
St Casimir Fair (Kaziukas Fair) is probably oldest event of its kind in Lithuania. Every year it takes place at the start of Mart. A three days Fare featuring traditional art, craft, food, traditional culinary treats, eatable fair souvenirs, theatrical processions, poetry readings, music. Hundreds of stands and stalls fill the heart of Vilnius streets. Kaziukas Fair in Vilnius celebrates the beginning of spring. For more information please contact us.
02 03 2017
British Airways starting flights between London and Tallinn
From 28th of March 2017 British Airways open flights to Tallinn. It will take place two times a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The Tuesday flight will depart from London in the morning and the Saturday flight – in the afternoon. Flight from London Heathrow to Tallinn Airport take under three hours. For more information please contact us or visit British Airways website.
23 02 2017
Three Most Trendy and “hippiest” neighbourhood in the Baltics
Not every city has an area with a charming district filled with artistic atmosphere, stylish galleries, vintage fashion stores, record shops, vegan cafes. Luckily Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn have something to share. Online websites, blogs mentions them together with other hippiest and trendy cities in the World.
Užupis in Vilnius Lithuania
Užupis is Bohemian and artistic district in Vilnius, located next to Old Town. Dating back to the 16th century, was formerly the city’s poorest area and home to a number of manual workers and a red light-district. During the Soviet era it was the roughest districts in the city. Nowadays its become home for many artists. The creative community hosts regular alternative fashion festivals, concerts, exhibitions and poetry evenings. Uzupis is charming district filled with galleries, artists' studios, cafés and quirkiness. Has its own president, flag and constitution.
Miera Street, Riga, Latvia
The Miera Street (Peace Street) quarter in Riga is a popular area for "hipsters". It is home to a bohemian community of shopkeepers, publicans, writers, painters, gallery-owners. Here is also the Museum of Latvian Chocolate and the former Tobacco Factory, where various art exhibitions, festivals and concerts are now held. Summer Celebration is held in May and take place on the whole street. The many cafes, shops and artists located on the street organize various activities on the day, presenting themselves to the thousands of visitors attending the festival.
Kalamaja District, Tallinn, Estonia
Kalamaja District in Tallinn, Estonia
Photograph by Maret Põldveer-Turay and Paul Kuimet
Starting from the 14th century the area served as the town’s main fishing harbour. After, when Tallinn was connected to St. Petersburg by railroad, everything changed. The wooden houses built in 20s and 30s to accommodate workers, became Kalamaja's architectural legacy and now gives neighbourhood its unforgettable charm. During the last decade this area has taken on a bohemian atmosphere, becoming the residence of choice for young, creative types. Clever use of space and dedicated use of local produce makes the local restaurant-cafés an integral part of the Kalamaja atmosphere. The collection of factory buildings that has been slowly transformed into a popular hangout for those who enjoy off-beat restaurants , art expos, craft beer, antiques shopping, alternative theatre and clubbing. Kalamaja District is the “hipsterville” of Tallinn.
The Best Restaurants in the Baltics 2017
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Scandinavian restaurant guide White Guide Nordic, leading restaurant guide in the Nordic countries, release new edition including the Baltic countries. It Contains reviews of the 60 best restaurants in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
“The Baltic countries have their own proud culinary traditions, their own regional climate conditions and biotopes, but the practice of using various techniques to exploit and preserve what the brief growing season provides is as deeply rooted as in the Nordics, indeed even more deeply. If the Baltic region’s cuisines continue to develop the way they are doing now and cultivate their distinctiveness, more people will discover that Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are worth a journey, “ says Editor-in-Chief for the Baltic part of the guide, Anna Michelson Bodemark.
The restaurants are assessed by professional reviewers in accordance with agreed criteria, on a scale of 100 points: up to 40 points are awarded for food, and 20 points are awarded for each of the following: service, beverages, and setting/atmosphere. In total, 30 Estonian, 19 Latvian and 10 Lithuanian restaurants were rated by the “White Guide”. The highest rating was awarded to NOA Chef’s Hall, Tallinn, Estonia; Vincents, Riga, Latvia; Sweetroot, Vilnius, Lithuania. Vincents in Riga was recognized as the best restaurant in the Baltic states.
For more information about best restaurants in the Nordic and Baltic countries visit www.whiteguide-nordic.com or contact us
29 12 2016
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Christmas Shopping with a Difference
The Christmas Market in Vilnius, Lithuania December 24-26, 2016
Christmas shopping with a different - in Old Town boutique shops, art galleries, linen and amber gift shops. Discover Lithuanian fashion designers at their boutiques hidden in narrow Old Town streets. The traditions of Vilnius craftsmen go right back to the time of the city’s earliest days as a settlement at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia (Vilnelė) rivers.
The Christmas Market on Cathedral Square brings genuine Christmas joy, fabulous entertainment, superb leisure time activities. Market stalls decorated with cozy wooden houses: Lithuanian handicrafts, Christmas decorations, sweets, and local Christmas food. We are certain that you will be able to find a special Christmas gift here for your loved ones.
23 11 2016
For more information and qustions please contact us
The Estonian National Museum opened its Door in former Soviet Airbase near Tartu, Estonia
The new modern building is full of objects from Estonian’s past. The museum has two permanent exhibition areas with exhibitions presented fully in Estonian, English and Russian. There are gallery spaces, a conference hall, public library, auditoriums, educations rooms, offices and storage space. It is perfect place for different events such as conferences, meetings, festivals, workshops for more than 200 people. The restaurant and cafe offer for visitors Estonian cuisine. The Museum can cater for any events taking place in the Museum.
03 11 2016
For more information and qustions please contact us
Reconstruction of the Runway of Vilnius Airport, Lithuania
During the period from 14 July till 18 August 2017, when the runway of Vilnius Airport will be under reconstruction, the majority of airlines will divert their flights to Kaunas Airport. Even though during the reconstruction, the schedule and frequency of flights will be somewhat different, connections to the major cities of Europe will remain great, and the number of flights going in certain directions may even increase.
26 10 2016
For more information and questions please contact us
One More New International Hotel in Vilnius, Lithuania
Rezidor hotel groups is planning to open first Radisson RED Hotel in the Baltics, Russia & CIS region. The hotel will be an part of an new multifunctional complex, located in Vilnius city center only a short walk from the Old Town. The hotel with around 200 rooms is expected to open in 2020.
26 10 2016Reconstruction of the Runway of Vilnius Airport, Lithuania
During the period from 14 July till 18 August 2017, when the runway of Vilnius Airport will be under reconstruction, the majority of airlines will divert their flights to Kaunas Airport. Even though during the reconstruction, the schedule and frequency of flights will be somewhat different, connections to the major cities of Europe will remain great, and the number of flights going in certain directions may even increase.
25 10 2016
Tallinn Announce Cultural Highlights and Events Calender for 2017
Tallinn in 2017 is going to be full of various events: music festivals, community fairs, international events. The highlights are classical music Tallinn Music Week, Youth Song and Dance Festival, Maritime and Medieval Days and many other exciting events.
28 09 2016
For more information and questions please contact us
Boutique Hotel Chain Design Hotels Comes to Vilnius Old Town
Design Hotels going to open one of its hotels in Vilnius Old Town in 2018. Housed next to the Town Hall, the five-star hotel will have 105 rooms with 13 suites, and five apartments. Other facilities will include four conference rooms, a restaurant, plus a fitness centre and spa.
12 09 2016
Great Amber Concert Hall in Liepaja, Latvia
In 2015 in Liepaja, third largest city in Latvia, was opened brand new contemporary architecture building in the color of amber. Original building was created by the excellent Austrian architect Prof. Volker Giencke. Modern concert hall perfectly suitable for high art and culture events, conferences and corporate activities. There are three concert halls, a public events spaces, a coffee shop and a restaurant. The concert hall with outstanding acoustics is a home for Liepāja Symphony Orchestra and Music high School. Tourist groups are welcome to take a guided tour around the hall.
07.09.2016
