One Of Europe's More Affordable Beach Escapes Is An Uncrowded Lithuanian Gem Of Serene Bike Paths

Trying to find affordable beach destinations in Europe can sometimes seem like a thankless task. The most famous spots are usually either prohibitively expensive, like the Cote d'Azur or the Greek islands, or incredibly overcrowded, like the Costa del Sol or the Balearics. Even previously affordable and less crowded European beach destinations like Croatia or Portugal can be pricey these days, making it difficult to find hidden gems for a sun and sand escape.

So when you find an incredible, picturesque, budget-friendly European beach vacation spot, the temptation is to keep it to yourself. But Klaipėda, situated on Lithuania's Baltic coastline, is too exciting a find not to share. It might not be the most popular place to go for a summer vacation, but Lithuania is charm personified, and Klaipėda might just be the best value seaside destination you'll ever find.

From the secluded, empty beaches of the Curonian Spit and their serene bike paths to the exquisite half-timbered buildings of the German-influenced historic town center, Klaipėda combines Old World charm and tranquil stretches of pristine sand to create a charming, relaxed vacation destination. It is easily accessible by ferry from Germany and Sweden, and is about a three-hour drive from the international airport at Vilnius, which is an affordable, underrated gem of a city itself. And best of all, it is absurdly cheap — the average daily travel cost is less than $40.

Klaipėda might not have the stunning heat of the Costa del Sol or the gorgeous turquoise water of the Caribbean, but its beaches are pure, untouched stretches of white sand — perfect for unwinding free from noise and stress. The pick of the bunch is Smiltynė, located at the tip of the Curonian Spit and accessible only by ferry. Backed by the dense pine forests of Neringa, a UNESCO-listed landscape, Smiltynė is an exquisite oasis, with the only reminder of city life the skyscrapers visible across the lagoon. If you are feeling adventurous, it is worth exploring the peninsula further by bicycle. Heading south away from Klaipėda will bring you to the bleak beauty of the Dead Dunes, as well as the wide-open expanse of Nida, another magnificently remote and secluded swimming spot.

The Baltic coast north of the city also has several great beaches that are more accessible than Smiltynė. Melnragė I and II are the closest to the city, just beyond the port and with interesting views of the ships heading off to distant lands. Giruliai is easily accessible by bicycle and has some great walking and cycling trails, as well as charming pre-war villas and Second World War German military architecture. The most remote beach on Klaipėda's northern shore is Karklė, an old fishing village that is on the verge of being washed away by the ever-encroaching tides. The Baltic beaches are all easily accessible by a public bus route that runs north from the city along the coast.

While Klaipėda's beaches are stunning, a huge part of its unique attraction as a summer vacation destination comes from its charming old town. Klaipėda feels completely distinct from every other Lithuanian city thanks to its eye-catching half-timbered "fachwerk" architecture and a variety of other German influences. This is because, from 1252 until 1923, it was controlled by Germany, first by the Teutonic Knights and eventually as part of the Prussian Kingdom, until it gained independence and joined the rest of Lithuania.

The historic center is an absolute treat. Beyond the pretty houses and shops, it is worth exploring the series of curious, playful, poignant, and macabre sculptures scattered around the town. From the Black Ghost, a grim hooded shape climbing out of the water holding a lamp, to the Farewell of a mother and child leaving the city by train, as well as a wish-granting mouse, a dragon, and a pot of money, they make an excellent focus for an afternoon of exploration.

Klaipėda is also home to Lithuania's second-oldest brewery, Švyturys, which is a fantastic place to stop for refreshments after wandering around town. Beer has been brewed here since 1784, and the brewery is open both for casual drinks at the tap and for more formal tours of the site.