But as you would do your due diligence before visiting any other foreign country, you’d do
yourself a favor by taking care of the following before your trip:Study Up on the Culture
The three countries are independent states with different cultural heritage and language. In
fact, all three managed to retain their independence in 1991, and they are very much
proud of their heritage.

While each is unique in their own right, Estonia arguably shares the closest resemblance
to Finland. Indeed, it implies a higher standard of living, so factor this in your expected
living costs

Decide on the Best Time to Visit

While a large part of the decision will be based on whatever your schedule allows for, the
consensus is that the optimal time for visiting is between April and September. Unless you
prefer the winter’s cold grip, this is when the weather is at its finest.

During summer, expect the temperatures to linger around 25 degrees. The winters, on the
other hand, tend to be harsh and not for the faint-of-heart.

Check Your Transport Options

Unless you have a local friend, and you’ve agreed to have them drive you around, you will
need to rely on public transport. So check the bus routes in advance and plan accordingly.
Hitch-hiking is not that popular in the Baltics, but the distances between cities are pretty
short (from Vilnius to Riga 4 hours in a bus, for example), so trains and buses should
suffice.

There is always the option of calling a taxi, but compared to trains and buses, it will cost
you a lot more. If you’re no stranger to handling foreign apps, there is always the option of
hailing a cab via one of the local ride-sharing apps. In Estonia, Uber is a big one, but there is also Bolt, its local variant.

Have a Way to Break the Language Barrier

While you might hear Latvians, Lithuanians, and Estonians speaking Russian, do not
make the mistake of confusing them with being one. Although they have a Russian-
influenced history, their culture is unique to their nation.

Either way, it’s almost a given that you’ll find someone speaking English in all three
countries. Even so, if you don’t know a word of their language, a good trick is to install a
translation app that can translate spoken language on the fly.

Check the Local Wi-Fi Coverage and Data Plans

Whether you’re going to be taking some of your work with you or not, having a way to
access the world wide web is a must in this day and age. The best practice is to pick up a
local SIM card with a generous data package to enjoy your favorite online content without
worries.

To save a bit of money, check where you can expect to find local Wi-Fi hotspots. Do bear
in mind that every time you decide to connect to public Wi-Fi, you are exposing your
sensitive private data to interception and theft. Therefore, educate yourself on what is a
VPN and install one on your smart devices before you take off.

Visit a Currency Exchange

While you can always exchange your money at the airport when you arrive, try to take care
of this in your own country to see if they offer you a better exchange rate. Baltic countries
belong to the European Union, and thus they use euros, so it shouldn’t be much of a
problem.

Get Your Visa Sorted out

Unless you’re a European citizen (all of which get to stay for as long as they like), you will
need to get the appropriate visa for your type of trip. Depending on the purpose of your
visit, there are all sorts of permits, and the regulations may change every couple of
months, so it’s imperative to check the current state of affairs and get one that has you
covered.

Do bear in mind that, even as a European citizen, you’re still going to need to register your
stay if its duration exceeds three months.

Book Your Accommodation

There is the old wisdom of always booking your hotels and trips in advance if you want to
secure the best prices, so be sure to keep this in mind. While you’re unlikely to run out of
options upon the day of your arrival, the costs will always reflect it and may, in some
cases, even double.

For hotels, booking a week or two in advance should suffice. Airbnb is available in the
Baltics too, and if you travel alone and want to meet locals, you can always try
Couchsurfing.

Stock Up on Entertainment

Let’s get this out of the way right now to avoid disappointment later: the Baltics are not into
football all that much. Basketball is the sport of choice for Lithuanians (their second
religion, as they say), and Latvians love their ice hockey.

So if you’re big on sports in general, keep in mind the local scene may or may not deliver
what you want. The workaround, of course, is to stock up on other forms of entertainment;
whether it be a Netflix subscription, books, or movies, be sure to take some with you.

Conclusion

From stunning architecture to tongue-twisting local cuisine, the Baltic countries offer
something for all tastes and preferences. So do take the time to visit and enjoy everything
they have to offer – you won’t regret it!

The first city I explored in the Baltics – Vilnius. I honestly feel like the Eastern Europe is underrated, it is beautiful, it’s easy to travel around because locals especially the young people speak good English. There are a lot of history to learn, food to try, and beer to taste! Not to mention how affordable it is. I’ve lived in Denmark, travelled in France, Italy, and Sweden – Lithuania or Vilnius is a lot cheaper.

Here, I will be listing the best hostels in Vilnius. From homely feel like accommodations to party hostels – you will find them here and why they are the one of the best hostels in the city. Here are some tips if you don’t know what to do in Vilnius during your first visit.

NOTE: Most of the hostels in Vilnius are equipped with a functioning kitchen. City tax will also be effective starting July 1, 2018 upon checking in.

QUICK ANSWER TO THE BEST HOSTELS IN VILNIUS

• Best party hostels – B&B&B&BB
• Cheapest hostel – 5 Euro Hostel
• With best reviews – Jimmy Jump Hostel
• Cosiest Hostel – Downtown Forest Hostel

You can read below the comparison table of these hostels and further below to read each hostel’s best features and find more hostels to choose from.

BEST HOSTELS IN VILNIUS – COMPARISON TABLE

Check out the comparison table below for your preferred hostel in Vilnius. If you need more information about these hostels, scroll past the table.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR A HOSTEL IN VILNIUS BEFORE BOOKING

To determine faster which hostel in Vilnius you should book and stay, remember to check and ask yourself these related questions. During your research, find out which hostel suits best your needs and expectations.

Location

If you don’t enjoy walking too much just to explore the city or get from public transportation, you should highly consider that the hostel is in the Old Town of Vilnius. If you are only staying for a night waiting for a connection flight, you should consider getting a hostel next to the bus station or to the airport.

Staying in the Old Town will take you to the main attractions in the city faster and easier. In the Old Town, exploring Vilnius will be a more convenient because most of the places to see and explore are just walking distance while the popular bars, restaurants, and clubs are also not far from here.

The train and bus station is not in the Old Town, however, one or two airport buses stop walking distance from the Old Town. The bus and train schedules are well-integrated with Google Maps.

Type of Hostel

The type of a hostel you are going to stay affects your experience in Vilnius. Read carefully is this hostels is a full-on party hostel, many travellers also prefer a chill vibe hostel, while others wants a place where they can meet other travellers.

Reviews

Reviews are very important, both a traveller and hostel owner know that. Reviews reflect the hostel’s situation, quality, and many other things. Every person is different, some may be liked that the hostel has a curfew while others don’t. Don’t make your decision out of total ratings, read the negative and positive reviews. Believe me, sometimes, the negative reviews are just something out of control of the hostel or the guests didn’t read the hostel description well enough, therefore their expectations weren’t met.

However, personally, if the hostel has thousands of reviews but still managed to keep a good rating, that’s already a great sign.

Price

Price – a very important topic to consider for many travellers. In this list, you will see hostels that are very cheap while others are just pretty pricey. Remember that it is often you get what you pay for.

In Vilnius, you can find a hostel for $6 or one for $15, my best advice would be, if it’s only for one night transitioning to another destination, I can live with a cheap one. While if I’m expecting to meet people, have a great sleep, and be comfortable, I would be willing to spend a little.

BEST HOSTELS IN VILNIUS

Jimmy Jumps House

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

Jimmy Jumps House has the highest and most postivie reviews online. When I came to visit them, I totally understand why they are on the top. The staffs are very friendly, the location is perfect (right at the Old Town), they are also close to the top attractions in the city of Vilnius. Since it’s not very big, it is very easy to meet people in the hostel.

• Best feature: Location, cosy common areas, clean bathroom
• Dorm bed per night: $11
• Private room: Available

Hostelgate

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

If you are looking for a little more affordable but with good location, Hostegate is for you. Although there is not much atmosphere in the hostel, it serves it purpose. There is a cosy common area and the staffs are noted to be very helpful. There are some issues in the cleanliness

• Best feature: Affordable and helpful staffs
• Dorm be per night: $9.50
• Private room: $35

Mikalo House

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

If you are looking for something that feels more like a guesthouse or home-stay, Mikalo House is for you. Also located perfectly, Mikalo House is walking distance to most tourist attraction. If you prefer to take a bus around or to the next city, the staffs are very helpful. The common areas are also kept tidy most of the time.

• Best feature: cosy and homely hostel, well located
• Dorm bed per night: $11.50
• Private room: $33

Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

If you like to be in the forest like atmosphere but not far from the city centre, Downtown Forest Hostel can surely accommodate you. They are not located in the city centre per se but still very accessible. Nesting just down the hill at the area call “Uzupis”, this hostel is probabl one of teh coolest I’ve ever seen. Their whole property is surrounded by trees and garden. They also have their own camping ground.

• Best feature: unique hostel atmosphere, outdoory type of hostel
• Dorm bed per night: $8 for dorm bed in a tent – $14 for regular dorm bed
• Private room: $30

Hostel Jamaika

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

For a little bit of a party scene and a place to easily meet people, Hostel Jamaika will be the right place. The location is not in the city centre but not bad either at it’s only a few minutes walk to the bus station and about 10 minutes to the Old Town. This hostel has a bar below the actual hostel but the are the same business. Locals also love to hang out here in the afternoon or weekends. The dorm rooms are decent however, there are not enough toilets and shower area to accommodate everyone especially when it’s fully booked.

• Best feature: bar and garden at the ground floor
• Dorm bed per night: $14
• Private room: $37

B&B&B&B&B

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

B&B&B&B&B is perfect for you if you down to a party all night and don’t mind drunk hostelers. It is located a little far from the city centre but the bus station is not much of a walk. The dorm rooms itself are not the most comfortable and convenient but the common area especially downstairs where the restaurant and bar is located is very cosy and well-decorated. The shops like supermarkets are just around the corner and are open until late.

• Best feature: great party, beautiful interior design
• Dorm bed per night: $11
• Private room: $25

Fortuna Hostel

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

If you are not very picky and only needed the basic, Fortuna Hostel is loved for this. They are located between the train/bus station and the Old Town. Although the kitchen is a little small, it is functional. The amenities are not in the best shape but will do the job. The staffs are helpful if you need anything, they also speak good English and can give you a lot of insider tips.

• Best feature: simple but well located
• Dorm bed per night: $10
• Private room: not available

5 Euro Hostel Vilnius

Why is it one of the best hostels in Vilnius?

It’s not a drill – there is a 5 Euro hostel in Vilnius and that exactly what it is called. Even the hostel is pretty basic, it is still very well located. Literally a few steps away from the bus/train station or 15 minutes to the Old Town. The staffs are also very helpful. Note that there is a small fee for bed linens.

• Best feature: affordable and well-located
• Dorm bed per night: $6
• Private room: available but it will be bunk beds in the private room – $21

I hope you found this article about best hostels in Vilnius, Lithuania useful. If you have any questions, let me know in the comment section below.

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Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is what every traveller’s dreams are made of. Nestled in the confluence of rivers Vilnia and Neris, the charming metro promises an unforgettable experience to anyone lucky enough to discover this hidden gem.

There are many things to see in Vilnius, with 360 degrees of picturesque views, dotted with cultural charm and architectural marvels, it can be confusing to narrow down what to do in Vilnius – especially if you’re only staying for a short while. But don’t worry, we’ve listed down the must-dos, must-visits and must-eats to help you make the most out of your Vilnius adventure.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO VILNIUS

Here are a few things to remember and prepare before you head to Vilnius to make sure you will have the best time during your visit and make a little mistake as possible. 

Schengen visa policy

Lithuania practices the Schengen visa policy, which means, you can stay here for 90 days within the 180-day calendar. If you have spent 30 days in other parts of Schengen, for example, Germany, then you can only stay for 60 days in Lithuania.

The 90-day rule is the total number of days you can stay in the entire Schengen area.

Find more information here according to your nationality:

• Australian passport visa-free countries
• Visa-free countries for Canadian passport holders
• Visa-free countries for US citizens
• British passport visa free countries

Language

Lithuania has their own language which is Lithuanian, however, due to the fact that it was once conquered by the Soviet Union, many older people speak Russian. While the young people speak English very well, therefore, you should not have a problem going around and asking locals for directions or anything. If you speak Russian, you should be able to get around as well.

Transportation

Going around in Vilnius and the entire country is very easy in Lithuania and very affordable too. There are city buses for €.60 – €1, while out of the city buses will be between €3 and up. You can also take the train or bus for as low as €4 to another city or nearby countries.

If you will be here for a while, you can register online and pay €4 to use the city bike for free for 30-minutes unlimited times a day for 30 days. There are many bike paths which makes it easy and safe.

The local buses and trains are integrated with Google Maps and are always right in time. Uber and Taxify works in Lithuania very well too and is quite affordable. You can also immediately hire cars for hire upon checking out this site.

Sim card and mobile data

To save some money from using a data room, you can purchase a local sim card with mobile data in it for as cheap as €6 valid for 30 days, it should also have free SMS and some minutes for local calls.

These sim cards can be found in grocery stores by the check out station, you don’t need to show an ID or passport. Simply grab one and play it on your way out.

Best time to go

Vilnius is a very green city, there are trees, open grounds, and park all over the city for everyone to enjoy. The busiest time of the year is summer, most of the hotels and hostels are fully booked, therefore, you should book in advance if you are planning to go here during summer.

If you can stand the cold, winter can be pretty nice in Vilnius as well, there are some Christmas markets and the prices of accommodation is a little cheaper due to low season.

Where to stay

Vilnius has many options for tourist to choose from when it comes to accommodation. There are AirBnBs for those who prefer an apartment-style, a classic hotel room is right at the Old Town, and for those who want to stay on the budget side, there are affordable hostels in Vilnius too that are well-located.

I highly suggest you stay in the Old Town area to make things easier, although, walking around and taking taxis, uber, or the buses are easy.

WHAT TO DO IN VILNIUS – COOL THINGS TO DO

Here are the cool things to do in Vilnius, attractions that you must not miss, food to taste in restaurants that are top-notch in prices and taste, and of course, never leave without checking out Vilnius’ nightlife.

CHECK TOURS’ PRICES & SCHEDULES

EXPLORE UZUPIS

For the wanderlust who loves to immerse in the Vilnian art culture, exploring the Bohemian and art district of Uzupis is a good starting point. The once dangerous neighbourhood and red light district has transformed into a thriving home for the city’s creative community.

This artistic haven will welcome you in streets bursting with colourful (and entirely legal) graffitis, art galleries, and cute
cafes and restaurants with artisanal selections of burgers, pastries, and craft beer.

They regularly host exhibitions, workshops, poetry evenings, and music and fashion festivals so are sure to ask around if they have one or two scheduled while you’re there. Fun fact: The Uzupis neighbourhood is actually the Republic of Uzupis. It is one of the must-sees in Vilnius for tourist, many would on go on a tour with a local to get to know the area better.

It declared itself an independent republic on April 01, 1997. Uzipis has its own president, army, flag, and anthem. How to get there: Uzupis is located across the Vilnia River. From the Old Town, the easiest way is to use the main bridge, Uzupio Undinele, which leads directly to the republic’s main entrance.

EXPERIENCE THE OLD TOWN CHARM

No Vilnius adventure is complete without a leisurely stroll around the Old Town. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Town Vilnius is a time capsule of medieval beauty. It promises an eyegasmic feast of architectural harmony inspired by gothic, renaissance, neoclassical, and of generally baroque style buildings. There are super affordable day tours to see the Old Town like this one, it comes with transportation and audio guide, it covers the must-sees in Vilnius. Much better than walking around and getting lost in the city.

Gates of Dawn, Presidential Palace, Vilnius University Architectural Ensemble Museum

Old Town is a melting pot of the city’s historical, religious, and cultural influences best represented by well-preserved palaces, monuments, and historic landmarks. Notable places of interest include the Gates of Dawn, Presidential Palace, and the Vilnius University Architectural Ensemble Museum.

Fun Fact: Old Town Vilnius is Northern Europe’s largest surviving medieval old town encompassing 1,487 buildings, 70 streets, and 74 quarters.

Follow the street sign: Old Town lies at the heart of the city. Many hotels are located within or just outside its sprawling area, which means you’re already there or a mere stone’s throw away. But if you’re looking for good places to start exploring, Pilies Street, Vokieciu Street, and Zydu Street come highly recommended.

Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights / KGB Museum

Getting a deeper understanding of Lithuanian history begs for a visit to the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Rights, formerly the Museum of Genocide Victims. Established on October 4, 1992, the museum provides an unsettling yet eye-opening insight into the dark past that gripped the country in the hands of the KGB.

The former KGB prison is now a historic building that houses expositions devoted to commemorating the past, and reminding present and future generations of the imprisonment, torture, deportations of, and anti-Soviet resistance by Lithuanian residents during the 50 years of Soviet occupation.

Address: Aukų g. 2A, LT-01113 Vilnius, Lithuania

Opening Hours:

• Monday – Tuesday – Closed
• Wednesday – Saturday – 10AM – 6PM
• Sunday – 10AM – 5PM

Entrance Fee:

• Adults – 4 €
• Pupils, students, retired people (present ID/appropriate document) – 1 €
• Child under 7, disabled, ICOM member – Free

How to get there:

• By bus: Take bus no. 43, 46, 52, 56, 60, or 88, by trolleybus: Take no. 9 and 19. Your exit is at the Nacionalinė dailės galerija’ stop. You can also walk along Gediminas Avenue to get there, or from the Cathedral Square.

GET A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE CITY

Vilnius is as stunning below as it is from above. And for the shutterbugs who want to capture the city from a few meters up, these scenic overlooks make for the best viewing and snapping spots.

​The Hill of Three Crosses, Cathedral Square Bell Tower, and Gediminas Castle are your top three destinations for an obstructed view of the city. From these vantage points, you can get postcard-perfect shots of the Old Town, a bird’s-eye view of the cobblestone streets, roof tiles, and the rivers and forest that blend seamlessly into Vilnius’ picturesque cityscape.

It helps that these three places are also must-visits and should be in your Vilnius trip bucket list – that’s hitting two birds with one stone right there. But wait, there’s more, if you have time to kill and want to see more panoramic views of Lithuania outside Vilnius, then head over to Treetop Walking Path in Anyksciai.

It’s a popular day-trip destination (1.5 hours by car) for locals and tourists who want to experience the Lithuanian forest and get gorgeous tree-level views via a tree-canopy trail walkway.

HEAD TO TRAKAI CASTLE

Trakai Castle is actually outside Vilnius, about 50-minute drive, you will get to see the famous island castle. This castle is surrounded by a lake which freezes during winter. The castle was built in the 14th century and was redecorated, however, became a jail in 1500. The castle was damaged and was completely ruined, it was reconstructed in the 19th century but was fully done in 1961 which is now a major tourist attraction. This is one of the day trips from Vilnius that you can do during your stay.

During summer, many locals and foreign tourist will hang around the area (not inside the castle’s parameter) until late afternoon to watch the beautiful sunset. You can also go on a tour for Trakai Castle to make sure you get to explore this beautiful place as much as possible.

• Address: Trakai 21142, Lithuania
• Opening hours: depends on the season, check here

How to get there:

• By bus: Head to the main bus station (Vilnius Station) in Gelezinkelio street or Sodu Street and take the bus at platform 6, 7, 8, 28, 29. There are buses that run every 10-20 minutes. The fare is about €2 for one-way. Once you get to Trakai town, you will need to walk for about 1.8 kilometres. There should be enough sign for you to follow or simply ask any locals or follow the tourists.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN VILNIUS – WHAT TO EAT IN VILNIUS

Experience the city through taste! Mary is not much of a fan of Lithuanian food although she admits they have the best Kebab and the cheapest (for its serving size) one.

Food in Vilnius is pretty interesting, Lithuanian loves their meat but at the same times, vegans and vegetarians should not have a hard time finding great dishes for their preferences. You should also visit their grocery stores, where you can buy ready to eat food and snacks.

Unsure of what to eat in Vilnius? Don’t forget to try the beetroot soup (Saltibarsciai) and Zeppelin (Cepelinai), these two are very popular and traditional Lithuanian dishes. Accompany these dishes with a traditional drink called Kvass or other local cider and beer. Complete your what to do in Vilnius list by dining here:

Šnekutis

Snekutis is probably my favourite local restaurant in Vilnius. They serve local dishes at such reasonable prices. Funny enough, I’ve tried to go here four times, the first two attempts was unsuccessful because they ran out of food at 8 pm only – yes, it’s that popular. This is the place I highly recommend you try Zeppelin and Beet Root Soup.

So, if you are going for dinner, try to head here as early as 5.30-6.00 pm. They have three locations, one in Vilnius Old Town, one close to the main bus/train station, and one in Uzupis.

Address:

• Uzupis – 01204, Polocko g. 7A, Vilnius 01204 
• Close to the main station – Šv. Stepono g. 8, Vilnius 01138 
• Old Town– Šv. Mikalojaus g. 15, Vilnius 01133

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM

Sweet Root

For those who take eating with your eyes seriously, Sweet Root is the place for you. Open only for dinner, Sweet Root offers a three-hour, seven-course dining experience that pleases both taste and sight with immaculately plated dishes. The restaurant, one of the highest-rated in the city, is best known for its creative use of native and seasonal ingredients.

• Address: Uzupio g. 22, Vilnius, Lithuania
• Opening Hours: 6-11 PM (Best to reserve in advance)
• Cuisine: Fine dining / Seasons-inspired local, modern Lithuanian cuisine

Medininkai Restaurant

A gastronomic adventure of plateful proportions, Medininkai Restaurant is the perfect place to fill up after a whole day of exploring. Medininkai serves traditional Lithuanian cuisine and is famous for its massive meat plates, mushroom soup, superb cheese platters, and other European specialities.

• Address: 8 Aušros Vartų gatvė, Vilnius, Vilniaus apskritis, 1304, Lithuania
• Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11AM – 12AM Sunday: 11AM – 11PM
• Cuisine: Traditional Lithuanian cuisine

GYVAS baras

Perfect for vegan travellers, GYVAS baras, Lithuania’s first vegan restaurant offers an extensive menu of plant-based, meat-free, and even gluten-free dishes, with a choice selection of beer and cider to boot! Their burgers of constantly changing flavours are a hit for both tourists and locals.

• Address: Traku 11 (Old Town), Vilnius, Lithuania
• Opening Hours:
  Monday – Wednesday: 11:30AM -10PM
  Thursday – 11:30AM – 11PM
  Friday – 11:30AM-12AM
  Saturday – 12PM – 12AM
• Cuisine: Vegan, Western

BEST BARS IN VILNIUS – NIGHTLIFE IN VILNIUS

If you want a taste of nightlife in Vilnius, I have a few suggestions for you to try. From a regular sports bar where you can relax and watch some sports or meet locals to all-night party clubs for dancing and go crazy.

Head to the bar street which is just down at Vilniaus Street if you feel like browsing the area by the bar. There are plenty of best bars in Vilnius depending on your liking, but here are some that we recommend you check out.

BIX Baras

For those who prefer a quiet evening but still have fun and learn about Vilnius nightlife and try out some local beers and ciders, BIX baras is the place for you. A lot of local people hang out here and play pool/billiard or do Karaoke in the weekdays.

• Address: Etmonų g. 6, Vilnius 01129, Lithuania
• Opening Hours: 11AM – 12AM (S, M ,T), 11AM – 2AM (W, T) 11AM – 5AM (F, S)

Hooters

If you miss some classic bar food that serves local beers and ciders while watching sports, you probably should try Hooters. They are quite affordable compared to Hooters in Colombia although the service time can be slower.

• Address: Vilniaus g. 16, Vilnius 01402, Lithuania
• Opening Hours: 4PM – 11PM (S, M, T, W) 4PM – 12MN (T), 4PM- 2AM (F, S)

La Birra Pub

La Birra is actually a pretty cool place, they are regular sports bar during the day which turns into a crazy nightclub once midnight hit the clock, simply head down to the basement where the action on the dance floor happens. They also serve bar food but the kitchen opens at 7PM.

• Address: Vilniaus g. 29, Vilnius 01119, Lithuania
• Music type: mainstream and modern
• Opening Hours: 5PM – 4AM (S, M, T, W), 5PM – 6AM(T, F, S)

Gringo

This pub is a cute little sports bar that serves affordable drinks. They also have plenty of screens that show different sports. However, they only play the audio for big games/championships and normally play punk rock, rock, and heavy metal music.

• Address: Vilniaus g. 31, Vilnius 01402, Lithuania
• Opening Hours: 11AM – 3AM (S, M, T, W), 11PM – 4AM (T, F, S)

I really hope that you found this what to do in Vilnius article useful for you visit in this magnificent city. If you have any questions or concern, let us know in the comment section below.

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Vilnius, Lithuania

One major requirement to have your Schengen visa approve is to submit and purchase a Schengen visa travel insurance. Without this, your application won’t be accepted. As you are looking into How to Apply for a Schengen Visa, there are a lot of things you should consider before jumping blindly on any travel insurance. Because the embassies and the Schengen states are very specific with the requirements when it comes to your travel insurance.

I have applied to three Schengen visas and all of them were approved. Finding the a travel insurance for Schengen visa is pretty easy but it’s also must researched properly to make sure that you meet the requirements.

In this article, I will go through the in-depth discussion of everything you need to know before purchasing your travel insurance for a Schengen visa regardless where you are from.

RELATED POST: How to apply for a Schengen tourist visa with the Danish Embassy

TIP: You may use the table of contents below to navigate faster.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR EUROPE

Here are some travel tips that I highly recommend and I hope you’ll find useful:

• Favourite website to book tours:Get Your Guide
• Another website to book tours:Viator
• To find cheap flights around Europe:Skyscanner
• Wide range of accommodations: Booking.com,HotelsCombined, Agoda, HostelWorld
• Book buses around Europe: Flixbus

SCHENGEN TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

The European Union made a very clear and strict guideline for the acceptable travel insurance that an applicant should have. It is a major requirement for the application of the Schengen tourist visa. Here is the coverage that your insurance must have:

• coverage of costs as a result of medical repatriation, emergency and hospital treatment, or death
• coverage must be valid in the entire territory of Schengen area
• it must cover the whole period of your stay in the Schengen area
• coverage must be at least 30,000 euros or equivalent in this amount

REMEMBER: For those applicants who want  to apply for the multiple entries, you only need to prove a travel insurance on the first trip. But when you enter on the second or the coming trips, you will be required to show a travel insurance.

WHAT IS THE BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SCHENGEN STATES

Don’t get the travel insurance just because it meets the need for a Schengen visa, it should also serve other purpose and give you more peace on your mind. Personally, on my two Schengen visa application, I purchased my travel insurance from IMGlobal while the other was AXA. I prefer IMGlobal, they have a clear coverage listed down, they are affordable, and their customer service was better than AXA.

I’ll compare these two below together with Allianz. These 3 companies were approved by the European Union as they meet the general requirement coverage.

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COMPARE SCHENGEN VISA TRAVEL INSURANCE

IMPORTANT: World Nomads have stopped selling insurance to Brazilian and Canadian citizens at the moment until further notice.

WHY DO YOU NEED A TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is more than another expensive requirement for a Schengen visa. Either you are heading to Europe, Southeast Asia or any other parts of the world, you should have a travel insurance. When you are on the road, things are more unpredictable. The people around you may act in a different way that is harmful. Having a travel insurance will help you have a more relaxed mind that if anything happens, you are covered and will be looked after. It is also a very matured thing to do, if you have a travel insurance and something happen to you, your family will not have to worry about medical expenses.

Depending on what travel insurance you will be buying, some of them cover a situation like lost baggage, delayed, missed or cancelled flight.

WHAT IS THE COST OF A SCHENGEN TRAVEL INSURANCE

The price varies depending on what you want to be covered. When I did it with AXA, it was 90 euro for the entire 90 days, while with IMGlobal, I paid US$86 for the same length of stay covering the general requirement for a Schengen visa. While you can always go for one with other coverage like what I mentioned before such as lost or damaged baggage,  cancelled, missed, and delayed flight although of course, it will cost more.

RELATED POST: How to maximise your 90-day visa

WHAT IS THE CHEAPEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR A SCHENGEN VISA

The cheapest I did was US$86 with IMGlobal. I’m pretty sure that you can find something cheaper, but I bet the claim process will be harder and longer. I haven’t done any claims with IMGlobal, but in case the hospital doesn’t charge IMGlobal directly, you will have to pay the hospital and claim for a reimbursement. Other hospitals across central and north Europe are charging IMGlobal directly.

OTHER COMPANIES THAT COVERS TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SCHENGEN VISA

If your budget permits, WorldNomads is popular and have a very wide coverage but they are very pricey too. They cover crazy or dangerous travel activities, flight insurance, gadget and electronic insurance, and more.

If you think it’s worth your penny base on the activities you will be doing and other perks you will be receiving  from getting a travel insurance for a Schengen visa, go for it.

Another option is Safety Wing, this one is great for long-term travellers, it’s affordable and pretty straightforward.

HOW TO PURCHASE A SCHENGEN TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH IMGLOBAL

DISCLAIMER: A Mary Road is affiliated with IMGlobal, however, it doesn’t mean that I (Mary, owner of this blog), am directly an employee of IMGlobal. Being affiliated with IMGlobal will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you and it gives me a chance to assist you in purchasing travel insurance with them, however, I don’t have full control of their operation. I can always reach out to IMGlobal on your behalf or you can also contact them directly.

1. Head to IMGlobal site

Head to IMGlobal site, and click GET QUOTE on Patriot Travel Medical Insurance

2. Add your basic information

Fill in the basic information such as age or birth date, name, your citizenship and country of residence. In the country of destination, if you are going to multiple destinations, for example, you are going to Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Choose either the following:

• Your point of entry – which country are you entering in Schengen Area?
• The country where you will spend most of your time – which country you will be staying longer? For example, only 2 days in France, 3 days in Italy, 6 days in Spain, and 7 days in Germany, you should choose Germany
• The embassy you will be submitting your application – which embassy will you be lodging your visa application?

3. Choose the price that you want to pay

If you are going to do any extreme activities such as motorbiking across the Schengen area, or car racing, you must tick the adventurous sports rider or add the evacuation plus rider.

Deductible means the amount you are willing to pay for medical services if you needed any medical attention before your insurance company will pay.

What is $0 (zero) deductible? This means that you will not be paying anything for your medical services and your insurance company will foot all the bills. I highly suggest this, it’s easier that way.

On the column of maximum 50,000, tick the one that you want to pay for this travel insurance.

NOTE: In case you had to see a doctor and the hospital doesn’t charge IMGlobal directly, you will need to pay upfront then file a claim with IMGlobal.

4. Fill in the other data that is needed

Fill in all your information as complete as possible. On the delivery method of your insurance kit, chose the first one or whichever suits your preference. Double check everything before hitting continue.

5. Double check all the information and the total price

Make sure that all your information is right and updated, look at the price again if it’s still the same or correct. If everything is good, then hit continue.

6. Select your payment type and enter the details 

Choose which payment method you want to do. After adding your card details or payment details, sign below that you understand all the terms and conditions and that all the information you have provided is correct.

7. Check your email

Once the payment is successful, don’t close the window until you receive an email containing all the file, documents, and receipt. At the bottom of the certificate, you will find the visa letter, which you will have to submit together with your application.

Make sure to print all these files and bring it with you when submitting our application to make sure you have everything they ask you to submit.

IS IT REFUNDABLE IF MY VISA WILL BE DENIED

Yes, in case your visa application is denied, contact IMGlobal and inquire what requirements you will need to submit for a refund. Most likely, a copy of the letter from the embassy which states that your application is denied. You have to submit the cancellation or refund request before the date of your departure.

IMGLOBAL REVIEW

I am personally happy that I purchased IMGlobal for my Schengen travel insurance. It’s very affordable and covers just like what I needed and most importantly, they meet the Schengen visa travel insurance requirement.

The process was very easy, I received the travel insurance kit/policy right away together with the certificate thatspecifically mentions Schengen visa and detailed its coverage which I submitted to the embassy.

FOR FILIPINO APPLICANTS: If you are from the Philippines and most likely to be applying from there, I highly recommend you check on the Embassy which travel insurance companies are on their accredited list. Every Embassy operates differently. Double check this to avoid any hassle.

I hope you found this article and my review about IMGlobal helpful. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email or leave a comment below.

DISCLAIMER

All the information are based on my own experience, even if I didn’t had any issues applying for my Schengen visa using this travel insurance, it doesn’t mean that you will have a smooth application. This post is to help all nationalities to decide what travel insurance is best for their application. Embassies from all over the world set their own rules. I highly recommend you check very well the policy of the embassy you are applying for. Some applicants didn’t had any trouble at all while others had. Going forward with this recommendation and whatever outcome it may bring will be your own responsibility.

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