The home of Dracula, Lithuania is a mysterious land with plenty of secrets. A focal point in both the Holocaust and the cold war, whilst it may be relatively quiet on the world stage this Balkan state has an air of history and mysticism like no other.

The capital Vilnius is a small yet pretty city filled with pubs, bars, restaurants. Winding allies and terraces house high end boutiques and local handiwork. Lithuania’s mysterious nature comes to the forefront at the Hill of Crosses in Šiauliai, an amazing mass of thousands of crosses located on top of a hill. Left by married couples on their wedding all with unique messages, the romance combined with religious zeal is a unique experience to behold. Another must see is the Museum of Devil in Kaunas, paying tribute to Lithuania’s pagan past. This humorous yet striking collection of devil artefacts both thrills and perplexes.

Vilnius has a beautiful old town, a fascinating and complex history and its own independent republic. The Museum of Genocide Victims is key to visit. Other highlights in Vilnius include: the Republic of Uzupis, the artisan quarter of the city; the views from the top of Gediminas Hill, and Trakai island castle – less than an hour from the city.

Paying tribute to another of Lithuania’s historical eras, the abandoned soviet nuclear missile base in Žemaitija National Park is a poignant reminder of the conflicts that once gripped the area.

Lithuania has a lighter side however, the Curonian Spit is a 60km extended sand dune. During summer, the beach is packed with sun loving tourists. Palanga in the west provides Lithuania with some much needed party buzz, boat parties are a plenty here during the summer months.

Lithuania is a fascinating, old nation with a curious sense of dark history, wonderful beaches, a vibrant capital and a full on party season give the nation some life. Lithuania’s best attractions tend to be spread around, so for best exploration a car would be required.

Rent-a-car with Green Motion to keep your emissions low and to keep the beautiful Lithuania green.