Weather

The Lithuanian climate is relatively temperate, with a slight edge that gives it that fresh eastern European charm. It verges on the continental as you move inland where, in winter, it's typically 2°C (36°F) to 4°C (39°F) colder than on the coasts but in summer may be a degree or two warmer.

From May to September, daytime highs are normally between 14°C (57°F) and 22°C (72°F) with moderate rainy periods. Coastal waters at this time average between 16°C (60°F) and 21°C (70°F). Winter (November to March) is a long dark affair with temperatures rarely rising above 4°C (39°F) and frequently dipping below zero (32°F), particularly in January.

Annual precipitation ranges from 500mm (20in) to 600mm (24in) in the lowland areas to 700mm (28in)to 900mm (35in) in the uplands. About 75% of it falls as rain, 25% as snow. The Gulfs of Finland and Rīga freeze occasionally, and the straits between Estonia's islands and the mainland usually freeze for three months from mid-January. The open Baltic Sea coast almost never freezes.