Most tourists come to Lithuania from Belarus. This was reported by media director of the State Tourism Department under the Ministry of Economy of Lithuania Raymonda Balnene.

In particular, in 2011 Lithuania visited 368 thousand Belarusian tourists, which is 26% more than in 2010. According to statistics, Belarusians make up 21% of all guests in Lithuania. Incidentally, the first time Belarus moved into first place in the number of visitors to Lithuania, ahead of Russia, Germany, Poland and Latvia.

- The majority of Belarusian tourists visit Lithuania on their own and do not use the services of tour operators. Additionally, the most popular city is the Lithuanian capital. On average, a tourist from Belarus to Lithuania spends 3-4 days – said Balnene.

In 2011, the Belarusians have been granted 150 thousand Lithuanian visas, which is 40% more than in the previous year, 2010. By the way, more than 40% of them could be used as multiple. The same percentage of visas issued were free of charge,  as the representatives of the Lithuanian consular service reported. Moreover, the Lithuanian visa is issued quickly enough – in fact, within 5 working days.

- Belarusian tourists are welcome in the Lithuania and Lithuanians are pleased that their neighbours so actively acquaint themselves with local singularities, heal and relax in the Lithuanian resorts – said Raymonda Balnene. The most popular resorts are Druskininkai, Palanga, Neringa and Birštonas.

In Lithuania, the 2012 year has been declared the Year of Cultural Tourism. Consequently, for all the guests Lithuania is preparing many interesting cultural events. For example, in the third weekend of May Lithuania invites everyone  to participate in the Day of the street music. Next the festival of culture “Let there be night” will be held in June, 16-17 in Vilnus. In the last month of summer, August 3-5, in the old town of Klaipeda will be the famous festival of the sea. It is held since 1934 and collects up to half a million visitors from Lithuania and other countries.