Banks: 08.00 to 15.00, Monday to Friday; some open Saturday morning
Post Offices: 07.00 to 19.00, Monday to Friday; 07.00 to 16.00, Saturday
Government Offices: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09.00 to 19.00, Monday to Saturday; some open on Sunday

Vilnius is not a dangerous destination and visitors need not concern themselves overly with safety issues. Petty crime is perhaps the biggest concern, with pickpockets known to target tourists. Visitors can reduce their chances of becoming victims by remaining alert and keeping their cash and valuables in secure places while out in public. Travelling alone late at night is inadvisable, especially if you are female. Travel in groups when possible.

220V AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.

Vaccinations are advised against hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, and tuberculosis. Rabies is present so consider vaccination if you plan on close contact with animals. Tap water is considered safe to drink but bottled water is still deemed a safer option. EU visitors with valid European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) can take advantage of free emergency treatment in the city’s hospitals. Standards of healthcare in Lithuania’s main cities are high, but health insurance is still a must.

Baltic-American Medical and Surgical Clinic: +370 5 276 2020
Emergency services: 112

Citizens of Vilnius speak the Aukstaiciu dialect of the Lithuanian language. English is also widely spoken.

The Lithuanian litas (Lt) is the country’s official currency; Lt1 equal to 100 centu.

EU visitors are not required to pay duty on goods brought into Lithuania from other countries in the union, provided they are for personal use only and not in excessively large volumes. Nationals of other countries or anyone entering from outside of the EU are entitled to the following duty-free allowance: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco; one litre of spirits; 250 grams of eau de toilette or 50 grams of perfume; 500 grams of coffee and 100 grams of tea.

A handshake is the appropriate gesture for meeting and greeting strangers or persons you are only vaguely acquainted with. Hugs and kisses are reserved for persons familiar or intimate with one another. Business is conducted formally so punctuality, smart dress and good manners are essential. English is the main language used between Lithuanian and foreign business persons.

Lithuanians take great pride in their culture and are staunchly nationalistic; visitors are advised to avoid making any remarks that might be construed as disrespectful to either value.

EU nationals may enter Lithuania on nothing more than a valid passport, although immigration officials may ask to see an onward ticket or evidence of funds to support your stay. Visitors from outside of the EU usually require a tourist visa. Lithuanian embassies in major cities across the globe are responsible for issuing visas.

The Vilnius Tourist Information Centre is situated at the Town Hall and can be contacted at +370 5 262 6470.