Even neighboring Poles gladly come to Lithuania for shopping, so a shopping tour to Lithuania is nothing unusual. Prices at local markets are lower than what we’re used to, while supermarket prices are generally about the same. Traditionally, amber is one of the most popular items brought back from Lithuania — it’s even more abundant here than in neighboring Latvia. Another traditional Lithuanian craft is the production of wooden and ceramic souvenirs. Tourists also never forget to buy a variety of local liqueurs, herbal infusions, and beer.
Sales in Lithuania happen after the new year and the end of Christmas fairs. There are many large supermarkets in Vilnius, and for several years now there is another small discount season in May, when shopping centers give discounts of up to 70%.
In addition, the sale season in Lithuania falls in the second half of November. The country is preparing for the winter tourist season, and the counters are emptied for new merchandise. And just in time for Christmas and the New Year, prices skyrocket.
Stores are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm or 8:00 pm on weekdays, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or 7:00 pm on Saturdays. Large supermarkets are open from 9:00 to 20:00 or 22:00 depending on the city. The most frequent shopping destinations are Vilnius and Kaunas. There are also good shopping options in the port city of Klaipeda.
The ability to reclaim up to 21% of VAT on exported goods makes shopping in Lithuania particularly attractive for non-EU shoppers. This is Tax Free, read more about it in our section on Customs in Lithuania.
