Šiauliai

How to Get to Šiauliai

Šiauliai does not have its own international passenger airport. Most visitors fly into Vilnius International Airport (VNO) or Riga International Airport (RIX) and continue by train or bus.

From Airport (Vilnius - VNO)

• Train (Recommended): Take the local train from the airport station to Vilnius central station (7 minutes, ~€0.80). From there, transfer to an LTG Link train heading to Šiauliai. The train journey from Vilnius to Šiauliai takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
• Cost: Total journey costs approximately €12–€19.
• Tickets: Buy online at LTG Link to avoid queues. English options are available.
• Bus: Alternatively, take an intercity bus from the main Vilnius Bus Station. Journey time is 3–4 hours. Tickets can be booked at autobusubilietai.lt.

From City Center

Šiauliai is a compact, walkable city without a metro system.

• Local Buses: The city is served by a reliable network of buses operated by Busturas. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (exact change recommended) or via the ŠiauliaiBUS mobile app, which is the most convenient method for visitors.
• Walking: The historic pedestrian boulevard (Vilniaus gatvė) connects many central hotels to key sights, making walking the best way to explore the core.

By Taxi/Car

• Taxi/Rideshare: The Bolt app is the most reliable and transparent way to book a taxi in Lithuania. A ride within the city center is generally very affordable.
• Intercity: If traveling from the airport by taxi, expect a journey of roughly 2.5–3 hours. This is significantly more expensive than public transport, often costing over €150–€200 depending on the provider and airport.

Šiauliai railway station is a straightforward, compact facility that serves as a vital transit node for Northern Lithuania. Unlike larger metropolitan hubs, this station features a simple layout with only three platforms, making it exceptionally easy to navigate for first-time visitors. You will not encounter complex multi-level structures or confusing terminal wings here; the station is a through-station, meaning trains pass through along the main Vilnius–Klaipėda line.

Think of the platform area as a simple parallel arrangement. All three platforms are located on a single ground level, directly accessible from the main station building. Because the layout is linear and small, you will find it impossible to get lost. There is no need for elevators or long walks between distant platforms; moving between platform one and platform three takes less than two minutes, even with luggage.

When arriving or departing, check the departure boards located in the main hall. Since there are only three platforms, the signs will clearly indicate the number for your specific train. As this is a through-station, ensure you are standing on the correct side of the platform to catch your train in the right direction—toward Vilnius in the east or toward Klaipėda in the west.

The primary point of confusion for first-time visitors is not the station layout itself, but the connection to the city’s bus station. Many travelers arrive by train intending to continue their journey to the Hill of Crosses or other regional destinations by bus. The bus station is not inside the railway station; it is located approximately 500 meters away. Upon exiting the main entrance of the railway station, turn left onto Dubijos Street and follow the signage or a local map for a short, five-to-ten-minute walk to reach the bus terminal.

Because the station is small, you do not need to arrive significantly in advance to navigate the platforms. Allowing 10–15 minutes before your scheduled departure is more than sufficient to move from the entrance to your platform, purchase a ticket if you haven’t already, and locate your carriage. The station’s simplicity is its greatest strength, ensuring a stress-free transition for anyone navigating it for the first time.

Traveling through Lithuania is straightforward, but I wish someone had told me these specifics before I arrived in Šiauliai. Don’t worry—the station is small and easy to navigate—but keeping these tips in mind will save you time and stress.

Before You Arrive

• Book online via LTG Link: Don’t rely on buying tickets at the station. Visit the official ltglink.lt website or download their app. You can purchase tickets up to 30 days in advance, choose your seat, and receive a QR code. Adding this to your Apple or Google Wallet makes boarding seamless.
• Skip the station queues: Since many Lithuanian stations no longer have manned ticket offices, you’ll be using self-service terminals if you don’t book online. Avoid the potential for technical issues or language barriers by having your digital ticket ready before you step onto the platform.

At the Station

• Luggage Storage: If you need to drop your bags, there is a physical luggage storage room at the station—not lockers—which costs only €2. Keep some cash handy for this, as it is a real lifesaver for day-trippers.
• Facilities: The station is compact and clean. While there isn't a large supermarket inside, you can find snacks and drinks sold through ticket booth windows. For a wider selection, the city center is within easy walking distance.
• WiFi: You’ll find free WiFi available in the station, which is perfect for checking your next connection or ordering a ride.
• Getting Around: If you need to get to your accommodation, download the Bolt app. It is the go-to ride-sharing service in Lithuania and is much more reliable and cost-effective than trying to hail a taxi.

Common Mistakes

• Assuming you can pay with cash everywhere: While some kiosks accept cash, always have your card ready for the terminal. If you are buying a ticket at the machine, ensure your card is chip-enabled.
• Ignoring the "Check-in" requirement: If you book online, you don't need to print anything; just have your QR code ready. However, do not wait until the last minute to check the departure boards. While the station is small, always confirm your platform 20–30 minutes before departure to avoid any last-minute rushing.
• Misunderstanding Bus/Train integration: The station is conveniently linked with the bus terminal. Don't get confused if you see bus information; they share a hub, making it easy to transfer, but ensure you are heading to the correct section for your specific transport mode.

Through station serving Šiauliai, Lithuania. Opened in 1871 as part of the Liepāja–Romny railway, the station has undergone multiple reconstructions, including significant overhauls in the 1920s and 1930s, and further updates following World War II. It serves as the primary rail node for Northern Lithuania, connecting the capital, Vilnius, with the coastal city of Klaipėda. The station facilitates regional and local transport, with trains serving as a reliable method for travelers to reach the city and explore the surrounding region.

You may be wondering if this station is huge and confusing; rest assured, it is not. The station features a straightforward, compact layout with three platforms, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors. While it is an important regional hub, it is not an overwhelming international terminal. Signage is clear, and staff are accustomed to assisting travelers. To ensure a smooth experience, keep in mind that platform assignments can change 30–60 minutes before departure, so it is best to check the digital displays upon arrival. Allow a little extra time to get oriented, and you will find the station to be a manageable and efficient part of your journey.