Vilnius Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Vilnius.
Healthcare System
Lithuania has a public healthcare system that provides emergency care to all visitors, with EU citizens receiving treatment under reciprocal agreements. Private healthcare facilities are also available and often preferred by tourists for non-emergency care.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (largest, comprehensive emergency department) and Baltic-American Medical and Surgical Clinic (private, English-speaking staff, popular with expats and tourists). Private clinics offer shorter wait times and more English-speaking staff.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (vaistinė) are widely available throughout Vilnius. Many common medications available over-the-counter in other countries may require prescriptions. 24-hour pharmacies exist in central areas. Pharmacists often speak English and can recommend treatments for minor ailments.
Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for non-EU citizens. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), though this only covers emergency care and additional insurance is still advisable for comprehensive coverage and repatriation.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a copy of your prescription and generic medication names, as brand names may differ
- Private clinics offer faster service and more English-speaking staff for non-emergency issues
- Emergency care is provided regardless of ability to pay, but you'll be billed afterward
- Dental care is of high quality and significantly cheaper than in Western Europe
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur occasionally, particularly in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and during festivals or events. Incidents are less common than in many other European capitals but have increased with tourism.
Excessive drinking can lead to confrontations, particularly in nightlife areas on weekend nights. Some bars and clubs may have aggressive door policies or overcharging issues.
Driving standards can be aggressive, and some drivers may not always yield to pedestrians. Winter conditions create additional hazards. Cyclists should be cautious as cycling infrastructure is developing but incomplete.
Old Town features historic cobblestone streets that can be uneven, slippery when wet, and challenging for those with mobility issues. Winter ice compounds this risk.
ATM skimming devices have been reported occasionally, though Lithuania has good banking security overall.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some unlicensed taxis or drivers at tourist spots may not use meters or quote inflated prices. They may take longer routes or claim the meter is broken.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants may add items you didn't order, charge excessive prices for bread or water brought to the table without asking, or include unexpected service charges.
Exchange offices in tourist areas may advertise attractive rates but charge high commissions or use confusing rate boards showing 'buy' rates prominently while 'sell' rates are less favorable.
Someone approaches offering a 'free' bracelet, flower, or to take your photo, then demands payment after you've accepted it or they've performed the service.
In some lower-quality establishments, attractive individuals may befriend tourists and encourage them to buy expensive drinks, or bills may be drastically inflated with hidden charges.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Personal Security
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) separate from originals and store digital copies in cloud storage
- Use hotel safes for valuables and passports when not needed
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night; use taxis or rideshare services
- Don't leave bags unattended in restaurants, cafes, or public spaces
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day and leave excess cash and cards secured at accommodation
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Keep emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
- Lithuania uses the Euro; credit cards are widely accepted in cities
- Split money and cards between different pockets or bags
Transportation
- Use official taxi companies or rideshare apps (Bolt and Uber) rather than hailing cabs on the street
- Public transport is safe and efficient; validate tickets to avoid fines
- If renting a car, ensure you have proper insurance and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules
- Be cautious when crossing streets; drivers may not always yield to pedestrians
- Avoid accepting rides from strangers or unlicensed transport services
- Keep belongings secure and visible on public transport
Communication
- Learn basic Lithuanian phrases; locals appreciate the effort though many speak English
- Keep your phone charged and consider a local SIM card or international plan
- Save important numbers in your phone including your embassy and accommodation
- Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes and public spaces, but use VPN for sensitive transactions
- Emergency number 112 works throughout the EU and operators speak English
Health
- Tap water is safe to drink in Vilnius
- Bring any prescription medications in original containers with prescriptions
- Be prepared for cold weather if visiting in winter; dress in layers
- Mosquitoes can be present in summer; use repellent if near water or parks
- Pharmacies are well-stocked; pharmacists can advise on minor health issues
Cultural Awareness
- Lithuanians value personal space and may seem reserved initially; this is normal and not unfriendly
- Avoid discussing Soviet history insensitively; Lithuania values its independence
- Don't confuse Lithuania with other Baltic states or Russia; they are distinct countries
- Tipping 10% is appreciated but not mandatory in restaurants
- Photography is generally allowed but ask permission in churches and for people
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Vilnius is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Lithuania has relatively progressive gender equality, and women traveling alone is common and accepted. However, standard precautions should be taken, particularly at night and in nightlife areas. Harassment is less common than in many European cities but can occur, particularly in bars or late at night.
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking at night
- Use official taxis or rideshare apps rather than walking alone late at night
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers in bars and clubs
- Dress is generally casual; no specific dress code required, though conservative dress in churches is respectful
- Trust your instincts and don't feel obligated to be polite if someone makes you uncomfortable
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with friends or family when out at night
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if traveling solo
- Some men may be forward in nightlife settings; a firm 'no' is usually respected
- Accommodation in central areas is recommended for solo female travelers
- Lithuanian women are generally independent and confident; you'll blend in easily
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Lithuania (since 1993), and discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by law. However, same-sex partnerships are not legally recognized, and Lithuania is considered one of the more conservative Baltic states regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; holding hands may attract stares or comments
- The annual Baltic Pride event occurs in Vilnius and is generally peaceful, though small counter-protests may occur
- LGBTQ+-friendly venues exist but are limited; research online before visiting (try apps like Spartacus or local resources)
- Younger, urban Lithuanians are generally more accepting than older or rural populations
- Hotel staff in international chains and tourist-oriented businesses are typically professional and welcoming
- Consider booking LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations if concerned; many hotels in Vilnius are welcoming
- Be aware that some traditional or older establishments may be less welcoming
- Online dating apps are used but exercise caution when meeting people
- Avoid discussing LGBTQ+ topics with strangers unless you gauge their attitude first
- The situation is gradually improving, but Lithuania lags behind Western Europe in LGBTQ+ acceptance
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Vilnius. While healthcare is available and of good quality, non-EU citizens will be charged for medical services, and costs can be significant. Insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost belongings, and other unexpected events. EU citizens with EHIC cards still benefit from additional private insurance for comprehensive coverage and repatriation.
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