A Baltic Sea resort with a wide sandy beach, pine forests, and spa retreats. The main street buzzes with cafes and shops, while nearby Curonian Spit has unique sand dunes.
Palanga, a seaside resort town on Lithuania's Baltic coast, draws visitors with its long sandy beaches and rich amber heritage. You can walk along the 470-meter pier, examine ancient amber pieces at the museum housed in a 19th-century palace, or enjoy the lively atmosphere on Basanavičius Street. As Lithuania's most popular summer destination, Palanga welcomes both local and international tourists looking for a coastal getaway.
Beaches and Coast
Palanga's main draw is its 18-kilometer stretch of sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea. Sand dunes and pine forests back the wide beaches, creating a natural setting. The 470-meter Palanga Pier extends into the sea, serving as a focal point for visitors. Many people gather here in the evening to watch the sunset, following a local tradition. During summer, you can rent pedal boats, ride bicycles, or even go horseback riding along the shore.
Amber Museum and Tiškevičiai Palace
The Amber Museum occupies the neo-Renaissance Tiškevičiai Palace, built in 1897. It houses over 30,000 amber pieces, including some with prehistoric insect inclusions. You'll learn about the geological formation of amber, its historical importance in the region, and its use in jewelry and art. The palace grounds feature a botanical garden designed by French landscape architect Édouard François André, with over 500 plant species, ponds, and walking paths.
Basanavičius Street
Jonas Basanavičius Street is the main pedestrian thoroughfare and center of Palanga's summer activities. During peak season, this street comes alive with numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, and souvenir shops. You'll encounter street performers, amusement rides, and various forms of entertainment. The street connects the town center to the sea, making it a popular route for beachgoers and evening strollers.
Getting to Palanga
You can reach Palanga through various transportation options. Palanga International Airport, the third largest in Lithuania, connects to several European cities, including Copenhagen, Oslo, and London. It's particularly busy during summer due to increased tourist traffic. If you're traveling from within Lithuania, regular bus services run from major cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda. The nearest train stations are in Kretinga (12 km away) and Klaipėda (25 km away), with bus connections to Palanga.
Where to Stay and Eat
Palanga offers accommodation options for different budgets. Many local residents rent out rooms during the summer season, providing an affordable choice for travelers. For a more luxurious stay, you can book at upscale hotels and spa resorts, such as the 5-star Amsterdam Plaza hotel in the town center. When it comes to food, Palanga has over 100 cafes and restaurants, many located on Basanavičius Street. For local cuisine, try the Fish Restaurant (Žuvinė) on Basanavičius Street, known for its fresh seafood dishes.
Activities Throughout the Year
While Palanga is busiest from June to August, each season offers something different. Summer brings various music festivals and cultural events, including evening symphonic concerts. The Palanga Amber Museum organizes special exhibitions and educational programs year-round. In cooler months, you can enjoy quieter walks in the botanical garden or along less crowded beaches. Remember that many businesses operate seasonally, with fewer services available outside the summer period.
