sassy27

I am in the early planning stages for a combined trip to Kaunas/Vilnius, Lithuania and Frankfurt ,Germany for this time next year 2014. The main reason for my trip is to meet my pen pal who I have been writing to for over 20 some years. I could ask for her advice but I do not hear from her an a regular basis and do not want her to feel that is my personal tour guide. She knows I am planning a visit and I will inform her of my plans as they are made but in the meantime, I would like to start my own planning. I also do not see many posts on Lithuania or anything too recent so hoping some people can offer advice or ideas on must sees or how to get around.

I am planning on traveling with my sister and possibly my mom. We will be going exactly one year from now and will have about 12 total days which includes travel time. Right now, I am tracking flight routes even though the dates aren't open yet, it helps me decide in my planning. Flights so far are cheaper to fly into Vilnius versus Kaunas where she lives. I have read that Vilnius is more happening so I am thinking of staying in Vilnius not to mention I can get a better flight to Frankfurt than from Kaunas. I have also read that there are routine buses to Kaunas as it is not too far. I am not sure how much time I will be spending with my friend as I do not want to be a nuisance but think this would be ok. I have also read not to trust taxis that are waiting but rather call one as they overcharge significantly. Is this still true? Are there any other things I should be aware of while in Vilnius? Are there areas that are not recommended to stay in?

I was able to talk my sister into joining me provided we can fit in some Christmas Markets. Since the flight that I am tracking has a connecting in Frankfurt, I thought splitting the trip between Lithuania and Frankfurt. I have not been to Frankfurt so am interested in knowing what Christmas Markets people can recommend in this area. I also read Frankfurt would be ok to spend 5 or 6 days. Would people agree with this or would I be short changing the time there? I will continue to do my own research but just wanted to get some information from people who have been to both areas.

madamtrashheap

I haven't been to Lithuania (yet - it's on the list next year), so can't help there. If it's Christmas Markets you're looking for, then Frankfurt is fine, but there are many other ones you would likely enjoy along with visiting another German city/town. Frankfurt isn't worth 5-6 days to stay in at the expense of somewhere else. 1-2 days max.

There are Christmas Markets all across Germany (and other surrounding countries) so you don't have to limit yourself at all. I understand the flight you're looking at goes through Frankfurt, and that this is the usual entry point for many, but could you consider Berlin instead? Not sure what flight options are like from your starting port, but you will find around 62 different official markets in Berlin, including 6 of the big ones in the central areas.

Or you could still fly in to Frankfurt, then go straight to another destination (Munich by train) for a few days before flying to Lithuania. Berlin and Munich are just two cities which come to mind (fairly large ones and with easy train access and great markets for your first experience) but they aren't the only options. I guess if you still only have Frankfurt as a flying-in option, only stay 1-2 days or also consider taking a day trip to somewhere like Cologne or Nuremberg while you're in Frankfurt.

Christmas Markets tend to start around the last weekend in November, so check ahead for the exact opening dates so you don't miss out.

agedude

I too have not been Lithuania, but two years ago did go from Berlin, via Warsaw to Tallinn, Estonia. I flew into Tallinn and it was inexpensive and easy. I did look up Taxi rates for Tallinn and knew the basic charge along with the per kilometer charge before I left. Find a reputable company, look up their rates, and print a copy. I took two taxis in Estonia and didn't have a problem. You can also use Google Maps to look up the exact distances from where you are departing to where you are going.

I did live in the Frankfurt area for 3 years. If two or three of you are traveling, I'd suggest renting a car to travel to Christmas Markets. I use Hotwire.com or Costco travel to book to get the best rates. I also usually pick the car up at the airport because of the easy access to the Autobahn, choice of vendors, and normally cheaper rates.

Definitely go to Rothenburg, a fairy-tale experience and one of my favorite places at Christmas. I also suggest going to Heidelberg another picturesque and wonderful Christmas market. I personally like Trier and Cologne. Trier for the Roman sites and Cologne for the Cathedral, museums and nine separate Christmas Markets, 5 within a 3 mile circular walk around the city center. All of these places offer easy access by train if you are hesitant about renting a car.

Good luck and have fun.

Marija

I have been to Lithuania several times. Any chance you can change your travel dates to a warmer season? Vilnius is a beautiful city and Kaunas is only an hour and a half bus ride away:

http://www.autobusubilietai.lt/index...t&redirected=1

The government has been cracking down on taxis drivers, but it's impossible to completely control abuses. This is a little old but you might find some worthwhile tidbits, especially about the Genocide museum:

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...s-and-rome.cfm

I also recommend that you read Ruta Šepetys' book "Between Shades of Gray." It may give you insight into your friend's family history, since few families escaped the horrors.

Enjoy Lithuania and do bring warm clothes!

sassy27

Thank you all! We are choosing to travel this time next year so that we can fit in some additional time due to the US holiday. We also have been to Munich/Salzburg this time last year as well as a few years ago and fell in love with the Christmas Markets so I thought maybe trying a different part of Germany this time around. I will also look into the Berlin route. I am open to any places in Germany provided I can get flights there and home easily.

I would have liked to just travel around Germany but since I have the opportunity to meet my pen pal, I figure I should take advantage of it not to mention also see that part of the world.

lavandula

From Frankfurt I would do the Rhine and Mosel Valleys, Trier, Mainz, Wiesbaden and Cologne. You will see two beautiful regions and save a lot of time as they're on Frankfurt's doorstep. All of the bigger towns have a Christmas market; even Ruedesheim (touristy but if you're a tourist, hey, why not). Frankfurt itself is not that bad. I too lived nearby and there are some interesting areas in the city, especially the museum riverbank - enough to spend a day or two.

Lavandula