Exploring the Borders between Lithuania and Poland: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Traveling between Lithuania and Poland presents a variety of options, each with its unique advantages. Whether you prefer the flexibility of driving, the convenience of flying, or the scenic charm of biking, this guide ensures you choose the most suitable mode of transportation for your trip.

Driving: A Flexible and In-Depth Journey

The most popular way to travel between Lithuania and Poland is by car, either by hiring one, car sharing, or hitchhiking. A new piece of highway between Suwalki (Poland) and Budzisko (Lithuania) was recently opened, improving the journey significantly. This 34 kilometers (21 miles) of road connects Suwalki with the Lithuanian border, making the drive to the neighboring country more accessible and enjoyable.

Car Rental and Car Sharing

Car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar offer flexible options for your trip. Alternatively, car sharing services like BlaBlaCar and Getaround might be an economical choice. This method provides you with the freedom to explore the countryside and cities of both countries at your own pace.

Hitchhiking

While hitchhiking is not as common as before, it remains an affordable and eco-friendly option. Ensure you follow safety guidelines and choose well-lit and busy routes. Places like the Suwalki Gate, a popular historical landmark, are often safe stops for hitchhiking.

Aviation: A Technological Leap

For those who prefer the accessibility and speed of air travel, the airline LOT Polish Airlines offers flights between Warsaw and Vilnius. At the moment, LOT seems to be the only airline operating between these two cities, making its services indispensable. Fares start from around €100 for one-way tickets, but early bird deals can get you prices as low as €60.

Trains: A Safe and Economical Option

Lithuanian Railways and PKP (Polish Railways) have recently agreed on a train "connection." Although you will need to change trains at the border, this option remains a safe and economical choice. A journey from Krakow to Kaunas takes approximately 10 hours, and from Warsaw to Vilnius, it takes roughly 8 hours. One-way tickets for the capital cities start from around €20.

Buses: A Budget-Friendly and Flexible Solution

For overnight travel or budget-conscious travelers, the bus is an excellent choice. Companies like Ecolines, Eurolines, FlixBus, and Lux Express offer regular services between the two countries. These buses often have better price offers and discounts, making them an attractive option. It is advisable to check available routes and schedules before booking.

Cycling: Discover the Scenic Beauty

A fantastic way to cross the border is by bike. With several bike paths connecting both countries, you can enjoy the scenic countryside and explore historical sites. Marijampol railway station, for instance, is an ideal starting point for biking tours. Additionally, the Camino Lituano in Poland, a cycling route starting in Sejny, offers a serene and picturesque journey.

Border Crossings

Finally, apart from the border crossings by road and rail, there are several options available. Major border crossings include:

Budzisko–Kalvarija Ogrodniki–Lazdijai Berniki–Kapiamiestis

Railway crossings are also available:

Trakiszki–Etokai

While boat travel across the Baltic Sea is a romantic idea, regular ferry connections between the Polish and Lithuanian ports are currently non-existent.

Overall, whether you choose road, rail, air, or water, each mode of transportation has its unique charm and utility. This guide should help you plan your travel between Lithuania and Poland to perfection, catered to your preferences and budget.