Top student cities in Lithuania
Discover the favourite cities for university students in Lithuania and what makes them unique.
If you’re considering an academic experience in Northern Europe, the best cities to study in Lithuania are an increasingly attractive option for international students. This Baltic country stands out for its high-quality education, a more affordable cost of living than other European destinations, and a safe and modern environment for student life.
In this article, we’ll show you the most popular cities for studying in Lithuania, analysing the pros and cons of each destination, the most prominent universities, and what student accommodation is like in each city. You’ll also find useful information for organising your stay and choosing the accommodation that best suits your budget and lifestyle.
Vilna
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, the largest city and the main academic destination in the country. It’s a dynamic city with a beautiful historic centre declared a World Heritage Site, a very active student life and a wide range of programmes taught in English. In fact, in recent years it has grown in popularity among international students for all these qualities.
Pros and cons of studying in Vilna
Student life in Vilnius has many positive aspects, but there are also some disadvantages that may affect your daily life.
Pros of studying in Vilna
- It has a significant international atmosphere.
- It’s home to the largest university offering in the country, including programmes in English.
- Its range of leisure and cultural activities is very varied.
- It has a good balance between cost and quality of life.
Cons of studying in Vilna
- Rents are more expensive than in other Lithuanian cities.
- The demand for accommodation is very high at the beginning of the academic year.
- The climate can be a significant disadvantage, with cold, long winters and temperatures dropping below -10ºC.
Top Universities in Vilna
Vilnius is home to some of Lithuania's most important universities.
Vilniaus universitetas (Vilnius University)
Vilnius University is the oldest and most prestigious university in the country, with a strong international presence. It has several campuses located in different parts of the city of Vilnius. Find out everything about the university and its surroundings in our guide to housing close to the Vilnius University.
Vilniaus Gedimino technikos universitetas (Vilnius Gediminas Technical University)
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University is internationally recognised for its academic standards in technology and engineering programmes. It has three campuses in Vilnius, one in the historic centre, one in Saulėtekis and one in Šnipiškės.
In this guide, we tell you more about their locations and how to find accommodation near Vilnius Tech.
Student housing in Vilnius
Rent for students in Vilnius is the highest in Lithuania, but it’s still affordable compared to other European capitals. Students usually choose to live in shared flats, which typically cost around €300-500 per month. However, this always depends on the location and characteristics of the flat.
For more information about university life, accommodation and areas to live in this city, you can read our guide on student housing in Vilnius.
Kaunas
Kaunas is the second largest city in Lithuania and another of the country's main university centres. It has a young and dynamic atmosphere, with a lively student scene, more affordable prices than Vilnius and a very distinct cultural identity.
Pros and cons of studying in Kaunas
Choosing Kaunas as a place to study has many advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.
Pros of studying in Kaunas
- It’s more affordable than the capital.
- It has a very lively university atmosphere.
- The academic offering in technical and scientific areas is very good.
- Its central location in Lithuania makes it easier to explore the country and travel to neighbouring countries.
Cons of studying in Kaunas
- There are fewer programmes taught in English compared to the capital.
- The leisure options are more limited.
- Outside the university environment, there are fewer young people in the city.
Top Universities in Kaunas
Kaunas is home to other highly distinguished institutions in Lithuania.
Kauno technologijos universitetas (Kaunas University of Technology)
Kaunas University of Technology is one of the country's leading universities, highly regarded in engineering, technology and science. Its main campus is in the Gričiupis district of the city, and it has buildings in other areas.
Explore locations, neighbourhoods, and tips in the guide to accommodation near Kaunas University of Technology.
Vytauto Didžiojo universitetas (Vytautas Magnus University)
Vytautas Magnus University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, and is notable for welcoming a large number of international students every year. Its classes are held in several buildings in Kaunas and on its largest campus in Akademija.
In this guide, we tell you more about their locations and how to find housing close to Vytautas Magnus University.
Student housing in Kaunas
Kaunas generally offers slightly lower rental costs than Vilnius. The price of rooms in shared flats is usually around €250-450 per month.
If you’re going to study in the Lithuanian city, check out our guide to student housing in Kaunas with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.
Klaipėda
Klaipėda is Lithuania's main port city and an interesting option for students looking for a quieter environment, close to the sea and with a different pace of life than in big cities. Its location on the Baltic coast gives it a unique character within the country.
Pros and cons of studying in Klaipėda
Klaipėda offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.
Pros of studying in Klaipėda
- A smaller, quieter town, ideal for a relaxed lifestyle.
- Proximity to the sea and natural areas such as the Curonian Spit.
- Good academic environment in maritime and scientific fields.
- Lower cost of living than in Vilnius and Kaunas.
Cons of studying in Klaipėda
- More limited university offerings than in other Lithuanian cities.
- Less nightlife and cultural options.
- Fewer programmes taught in English compared to the capital.
Top Universities in Klaipėda
Klaipėda is home to two institutions that welcome foreign university students.
Klaipėdos Universitetas (Klaipėda University)
Thanks to its coastal location, Klaipėda University specialises in marine sciences, the environment, education and social studies. Its faculties are spread across different neighbourhoods of the city.
LCC International University
This private university has an international profile (as its name suggests). As a result, it offers many programmes taught in English. Its main campus is located in Luise, north of the city centre.
Rent for students in Klaipėda
Rent for students in Klaipėda is usually more affordable than in the country's larger cities. The most economical type of accommodation is usually a room in a shared flat, which typically costs around €200-350 per month.
Šiauliai
Šiauliai is a medium-sized city located in northern Lithuania, known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong ties to local university life. It’s an interesting option for students seeking a more intimate experience and a low cost of living.
Pros and cons of studying in Šiauliai
Studying in Šiauliai can be very rewarding, although you’ll also encounter some more complicated aspects.
Pros of studying in Šiauliai
- The costs are more affordable than in large cities.
- Quiet town, ideal for concentrating on your studies.
- Good relationship between students and the local community.
- A relaxed pace of life and short distances.
Cons of studying in Šiauliai
- More limited academic and university offerings.
- Lower presence of international students.
- Limited leisure and nightlife options.
Top Universities in Šiauliai
One institution in Šiauliai stands out above all others.
Šiaulių valstybinė kolegija (Šiauliai State University of Applied Sciences)
Šiauliai University of Applied Sciences is a renowned institution offering programmes in English in various fields of study, including Business Administration, Engineering Sciences, Health Sciences and Social Sciences. Classes are held in an impressive complex in the city centre.
Student housing in Šiauliai
Šiauliai stands out for having some of the most affordable student accommodation prices in Lithuania. Generally, the cost of a single room in a shared flat ranges from €180 to €350 per month.
Find accommodation in Lithuania with Erasmus Play
Choosing between the top student cities in Lithuania will depend on what you’re looking for as a student: a capital city with a lively university scene like Vilnius, a young and accessible city like Kaunas, a quieter coastal setting like Klaipėda, or a more affordable and peaceful destination like Šiauliai. All of them offer good quality education and a lower cost of living than in many Western European countries.
Whatever your choice, having good accommodation is key to making the most of the experience. Through an online platform specialising in student accommodation, you can compare verified rooms, flats and residences, filter by price and location, and book securely before you arrive in Lithuania. This way, you can focus on what's important: studying, getting to know the country, and enjoying your time at university.
Other guides on studying and living in Lithuania
Here are some links to related guides.