Lithuania

Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9 / 5)

Lithuania is the largest of the three Baltic states and a country with a proud and ancient history that long pre-dates its neighbours' in terms of political significance, having once been the capital of one of the largest empires in medieval Europe. Vilnius, its capital, is a UNESCO-listed city of extraordinary baroque architecture, a thriving arts scene, and a deeply layered history that includes a once-flourishing Jewish community and decades of Soviet occupation. The country is also home to the remarkable Hill of Crosses near Siauliai, the Curonian Spit national park, and the haunting former KGB headquarters, all of which speak to a nation that has known both great suffering and remarkable resilience.