Photo: Shutterstock Lithuania continues to establish itself as one of Europe's refreshing surprises on the tourism map - excelling in all areas. Recently, Vilnius, the country's capital, was selected as one of the happiest cities for young people under 30, praised for its high quality of life, accessibility, green transportation, and vibrant creative scene.
Now, the city is gaining culinary strength - with the announcement of the Michelin Guide 2025, awarding four prestigious stars to Lithuania and revealing a vibrant culinary scene that rivals even the largest cities in Europe.
Lithuania is especially accessible to Israeli tourists, with direct flights from Israel to Vilnius offered by Israir and Overseas.
The combination of affordable prices, a classic European city break, stunning nature, and charming cafes makes Vilnius and other Lithuanian cities ideal for both short weekend trips and longer, immersive journeys.
Vilnius. Photo: ShutterstockFour Restaurants - Four Michelin Stars
Lithuania's Michelin revolution includes this year four restaurants with chefs who earned a Michelin star: Andrius Kubilius, Vita Bartininkaite, Tadas Eidukevicius, Martynas Praskevicius
Additionally, 37 Lithuanian restaurants were included in the prestigious guide - an impressive achievement that highlights the high standards, innovation, and culinary precision developed by the country in recent years.
Green stars and special awards
Among the winners are two green stars for sustainability and environmental awareness:
Demo (Vilnius) - innovative design, fermentation-based menus
Red Brick (Radiškis) - a rural restaurant with an experiential concept
Moreover, four restaurants received the Bib Gourmand award for quality food at an accessible price, including:
Augustin - Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fusion
El Gato Negro - Authentic Mexican cuisine
Kristoforas - classic European bistro style
A Young Experience - With a Vision for the Future
Among the special awards:
Outstanding Young Chef - Darek Medvedevas
Best Sommelier - Martynas Pravilionis
Opening of the Year - Arnas Petronis from B’ARN Bistro
A Culinary Vacation, Not Just for Gourmet Lovers
According to Michelin data, about 60% of travelers prefer to extend their vacation if given the opportunity to enjoy Michelin-level restaurants.
Joyful and surprising. Lithuania. Photo: ShutterstockNot Just Food: A Green Country and Spa Powerhouse
Alongside culinary recognition, Lithuania is already considered a true European spa powerhouse, with health and recreation sites that attract visitors worldwide. Towns like Druskininkai or Birštonas offer thermal pools, advanced treatments, and pure nature stays - in a calm and clean atmosphere, away from urban stress.
As a country promoting green tourism and sustainability, Lithuania invests in nature reserves, sustainable development, bike paths, and protected areas - attracting visitors seeking a quiet vacation connected to the earth and physical and mental health.
And Let’s Not Forget: One of the Happiest Cities for Young People
Vilnius, the capital, was previously chosen as the happiest city in Europe for young people under 30 - and the atmosphere supports why: a pleasant pace of life, amazing restaurants, markets, museums, relaxed nightlife - all at affordable prices.
Vilnius, Photo: Shutterstock