Vilnius and Its Surroundings by Car: A Practical Guide to Parking, Traffic Rules, and the Best Routes from the Airport.

You've collected the keys to your car at our location. You're ready to hit the road. The good news is that Vilnius Airport is located very close to the city center, and the drive is simple and quick.

• Main Route to the Center (approx. 15-20 minutes): From the airport, you'll drive onto Dariaus ir Girėno street, which seamlessly turns into one of the city's main arteries – Geležinio Vilko. It's a wide, multi-lane road that will take you almost to the very heart of Vilnius. Use a navigation app (Google Maps or Waze work perfectly here), and you'll have no trouble finding your hotel.

Lithuanian roads are in good condition, and the driving culture is similar to that in many other European countries. However, there are a few key differences you need to remember to avoid fines and travel safely.

• Dipped Headlights 24/7: This is an absolute must. In Lithuania, the requirement to drive with dipped headlights is in effect all year round, 24 hours a day, both in and out of built-up areas. Turn them on as soon as you start the engine and only turn them off when you park. 
• Speed Limits: They are very similar to European standards, but it's worth memorizing them: 
  • Built-up areas: 50 km/h Outside built-up areas: 90 km/h 
  • Expressways: 110 km/h 
  • Motorways: 130 km/h (in summer, from April to October). In winter, the motorway speed limit is reduced to 110 km/h. 
• Important: Lithuanian police have zero tolerance for speeding, and speed cameras are very common. 
• Blood Alcohol Limit: The permissible limit is 0.4‰. However, this is for experienced drivers. For drivers with less than 2 years of experience and for professional drivers, the limit is 0.0‰. 
• Using a Phone: Talking on a hand-held phone while driving is strictly prohibited. Use a hands-free kit or the speakerphone mode. 
• Pedestrians at Crossings: In Lithuania, drivers show great respect for pedestrians. When approaching a crosswalk where a pedestrian is present, you have an absolute obligation to stop and give them the right of way. 
• THE GREEN ARROW – BEWARE, A TRAP! This is the most important, unique rule. If an additional green arrow to the right is lit up with a red light, it DOES NOT mean a conflict-free turn. It means you can conditionally turn right, but only after stopping and yielding to EVERYONE – both vehicles on the intersecting road and pedestrians at the crosswalk.

Parking in Vilnius is well-organized, but you need to understand its logic. The city center is divided into four paid parking zones, marked by colors.

• Blue (Mėlynoji): The most expensive zone, covering the very heart of the Old Town. Parking is paid here all week, usually from 8:00 AM to midnight. 
• Red (Raudonoji): Covers the area around the Old Town. Paid from Monday to Saturday, usually from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. 
• Yellow (Geltonoji): The wider city center. Paid from Monday to Saturday, usually from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. 
• Green (Žalioji): The cheapest zone on the outskirts of the center. Paid from Monday to Friday, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

How to Pay for Parking?

• Parking Meters (Parkomatai): They are located in every zone. Most accept coins and contactless card payments. The ticket must be displayed on the dashboard. 
• Mobile Apps (THE MOST CONVENIENT OPTION): Download the m.Parking app on your phone. It allows you to pay for the exact duration of your stay, extend it remotely, and avoid searching for a parking meter. It's the solution used by almost all locals. 
• Underground and Multi-story Car Parks: In the city center, you'll find several large, convenient underground car parks (e.g., under Cathedral Square or on Gediminas Avenue). They are more expensive but guarantee a free spot and security.

Once you've mastered driving in Vilnius, it's time for a real adventure. Just 30 km west of the capital lies one of the most beautiful places in all of Europe – Trakai Castle.

• Getting There (approx. 30-40 minutes): The route is incredibly simple. From Vilnius, take the A16 road. It's a good, wide road that will take you straight there. 
• Why is it worth it? The castle on an island in Lake Galvė looks like something out of a fairy tale. It's the historical capital of Lithuania and the center of Karaite culture – a small, incredibly interesting ethnic group. 
• What to do in Trakai? 
  • Visit the castle and learn its fascinating history. 
  • Try kibinai (kybyns) – traditional Karaite pastries with meat, which are a local delicacy. 
  • Rent a boat or a paddleboat and circle the castle from the lake. 
  • Look for authentic souvenirs made of linen and amber. 
• Parking in Trakai: There are many large, paid car parks at the entrance to the town. Leave your car there and walk the rest of the way to the castle, enjoying the views.

At YourRent, we believe that renting a car is more than just handing over the keys. It's the beginning of your adventure. 

• Our fleet consists of new, reliable cars that will make every journey, whether in the city or on a longer trip to Trakai, comfortable and safe. 
• Unlimited mileage is our standard because we know the best discoveries happen when you spontaneously take a detour. 
• Our staff will be happy to answer your questions about local roads or regulations. We are here to make your journey through Lithuania as easy as possible.

Vilnius is a city that delights, and its surroundings offer even more. Having a car gives you the priceless key to a full and authentic Lithuanian experience. Thanks to this guide, you are now prepared for all the challenges. You know the rules, you know how to park, and you have a ready plan for an unforgettable trip. Now, only one thing remains – to hit the road and enjoy your freedom. Have a great journey!

YourRent - Your car rental at Vilnius Airport