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About Utena
Utena Province, often called the 'Land of Lakes,' is Lithuania's northeastern gem where pristine nature meets authentic culture. This region boasts over 1,000 lakes, including the stunning Lake Alaušas and Lake Asveja—the country's longest lake—offering exceptional kayaking, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. The provincial capital, Utena, serves as a charming gateway with its historic brewery and lively central square. Venture to Anykščiai to walk among the treetops on the highest canopy walkway in the Baltics, explore the mysterious Puntukas Stone, and ride the narrow-gauge railway through pine forests. Utena is also the heart of Lithuania's ethnographic region of Aukštaitija, where traditional wooden architecture, ancient hillforts, and vibrant folk festivals preserve a deep connection to the past. For a unique experience, visit the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory or the serene Šeirė Watermill. With its uncrowded landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Utena offers travelers an immersive escape into Lithuania's soul.
Things to do in Utena
Menjangan island for Certified Scuba Divers full day boat trip, 2 dives + lunch
From $115
5.0 (26)
Open Water Course in Pemuteran - Get Certified in Bali
From €315
5.0 (24)
AWay From Home - Bali Village Tour
From $189
5.0 (16)
Discover Scuba Diving and dive in Menjangan Island Marine Park 2 dives
From $150
5.0 (9)
Discover Scuba Diving in Pemuteran at the Biorock site,1 shore dive all included
From $75
5.0 (7)
Try Dive Program in the Biorock Pemuteran
From IDR 850,000
5.0 (7)
Advanced Open Water Course in Pemuteran - Certification in Bali (Menjangan park)
From €295
5.0 (6)
3 days Free-diving Beginner course, Aida 2 freediver in Pemuteran
From $280
5.0 (6)
3 Days PADI Open Water Course in Pemuteran
From $425
5.0 (3)
Menjangan Island Bali Diving Activity
From $120
5.0 (3)
Jatiluwih rice terraces,ulundanu and sekumpul waterfall trips
From $100
5.0 (2)
Open Water + Advanced Course - Premium Certifications Package in Pemuteran, Bali
From €580
5.0 (2)
Sustainable Dolphin Watching in Pemuteran
Scuba Diving Menjangan Island
From IDR 1,700,000
5.0 (1)
Menjangan island snorkeling full day boat trip
From $46
5.0 (38)Places to visit in Utena
Utrana
Utrana, Aušros g. 36A, 28193 Utena, Lithuania
Rašytojų kalnelis
Rašytojų kalnelis, B. Radzevičiaus g., 28372 Vyžuonos, Lithuania
Vyžuonų ozas
Vyžuonų ozas, Dusynos g., 28373 Čerioškavietė, Lithuania
Šaudorada
Šaudorada, Santarvės g., 28215 Padbuožė, Lithuania
Utena
Zarasų g., 28118 Utena, Lithuania
Liutgaras
Liutgaras, Metalo g. 7B, 28217 Utena, Lithuania
Utena
Utena, Kuktiškių g., 28124 Šabaldauskai, Lithuania
Utena
Utena, Ukmergės g., 28138 Grybeliai, Lithuania
Ąžuolijos pažintinis pėsčiųjų takas
Ąžuolijos pažintinis pėsčiųjų takas, Molėtų pl., 28125 Gediminas, Lithuania
Vyžuonos parko apžvalgos aikštelė
Vyžuonos parko apžvalgos aikštelė, Aukštakalnio g., 28177 Utena, Lithuania
Atrask savo laimę
Atrask savo laimę, J. Basanavičiaus g., 28249 Utena, Lithuania
Utenos kolegijos bendrabutis
Utenos kolegijos bendrabutis, Aukštaičių g. 9, 28217 Utena, Lithuania
Žalioji stotelė
Žalioji stotelė, 1208, 29374 Šventupys, Lithuania
Utenos lazeriai
Utenos lazeriai, Vasaros g., 28420 Radeikiai, Lithuania
Vosgėlių piliakalnis
Vosgėlių piliakalnis, Pakalnės g., 28353 Vosgėliai, Lithuania
Travel Tips for Utena
Getting Around
Public buses connect major towns, but schedules can be infrequent—check Autobusubilietai.lt. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring remote lakes and villages. Taxis are available in Utena city; use apps like Bolt or Taxify. Bicycles can be rented in tourist centers like Anykščiai for local exploration. The narrow-gauge railway in Anykščiai is a scenic tourist attraction. For navigation, use Google Maps or local app Trafi. Roads are generally good, but rural routes may be unpaved.
Best Time To Visit
May to September offers warm weather (15-25°C), ideal for lake activities, hiking, and festivals like the Utena City Festival in June or the Anykščiai Summer Festival. July and August are peak tourist months with long daylight hours. September brings beautiful autumn foliage. Winter (December-February) is cold (-5 to -10°C) but magical for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Spring (April-May) is quieter with blooming nature.
Local Customs
Lithuanians are reserved but hospitable. Greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants. Remove shoes when entering homes. Respect nature—do not litter, especially near lakes. Participate in local festivals to experience folk songs (dainos) and dances. Avoid discussing Soviet-era politics unless invited. Punctuality is valued.
Safety Information
Utena is very safe with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, but exercise normal precautions against petty theft in crowded areas or unattended vehicles. Rural roads can be narrow and poorly lit—drive cautiously, especially at night. Avoid swimming in unsupervised lakes due to unpredictable depths and currents. Scams are uncommon, but be wary of overcharging in tourist areas—confirm prices beforehand. The region is politically stable. Emergency services are reliable. No specific areas require avoidance, though remote forest areas are best explored with a guide.
Health Information
Utena has adequate medical facilities, including Utena Hospital in the capital and smaller clinics in towns like Anykščiai and Molėtai. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for public healthcare access. Non-EU travelers need comprehensive travel insurance. Tick-borne encephalitis is a concern in forested and lakeside areas—vaccination is recommended for outdoor enthusiasts. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies (vaistinė) are widely available, but bring any prescription medications. Emergency dental and medical services are accessible, though English-speaking staff may be limited outside Utena city.
Languages Spoken
LithuanianRussianEnglish
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Vilnius +02:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+370
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
136,000
Area
7201 km²
Government
County (Apskritis) with municipal districts
ISO Code
LT-64