Imagine walking to class in Vilnius’ charming Old Town, grabbing coffee for €2-3, and having parks with luscious green trees just a few mins away. That’s not a dream, it’s everyday life in Lithuania. That’s Lithuania student life! Over the past decade, this Baltic gem has quietly become one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for international education. With globally recognized degrees, budget-friendly tuition, and a growing community of international students, it’s no surprise Lithuania is climbing the ranks. But what’s day-to-day life really like once you arrive? Let’s dive into Lithuania student life as an international.
Student Accommodation: Dorm or Apartment?
When you first move to Lithuania, your biggest decision might be: Do I stay in a dormitory or rent my own place?
University dorms are the most budget-friendly option, with rooms ranging from €70 to €250 per month, depending on the city and room type. Most come furnished and are located near campus. If you’re more independent or want extra privacy, renting an apartment is common in cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda. Expect to pay:
- – €350 – €600/month for a 1-bedroom outside the city center
- – €500 – €800/month in central areas
Pretty pricey right? Dorms should be your first option as we recommend. Lithuania student life would be much easier to start when you can make friends at the dorms and just start learning more about the city around you.
🔑 Pro Tip: Always view the apartment in person or through a verified agency before paying any deposit.
Daily Budget: How Much Do Students Spend?
Life in Lithuania is somewhat affordable, as compared to other EU countries. On average, international students spend between €500 – €900 per month, including housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Here’s a rough monthly breakdown:
- – Rent: €150 – €600 (dorm vs. private flat)
- – Groceries: €100 – €150
- – Transport: €15 – €30 (with student discounts!)
- – Leisure & dining: €50 – €150
For meals, a local restaurant might charge just €7 – €12. And if you’re into cooking, a week’s worth of groceries can cost under €40 if you shop at Lidl or Maxima.
We speak in more detail about costs in our post: Living Expenses in Lithuania for Students: 1# A Comprehensive Cost of Living Guide
Getting Around: Student-Friendly Transport
Lithuanian cities are incredibly walkable, but the public transport system is also reliable and affordable, which makes Lithuania student life so much easier. With a valid ISIC or LSIC student ID, you’ll enjoy 50% off on buses, trolleys, intercity trains and buses, and more.
In Vilnius and Kaunas, apps like Žiogas and Trafi help you plan your routes and buy tickets digitally. A monthly student pass usually costs around €15–€30 depending on the city.
Mobile & SIM Cards: Stay Connected
Once you land, getting a local SIM card is a must. The top providers, Telia, Bitė, and Tele, offer both prepaid and contract options. You can get unlimited data, calls, and texts for under €17/month. You can read more about the top options in our blog post: Best SIM Card Options in Lithuania: #1 The Ultimate Guide for Tourists and Expats.
Dorm residents can usually rely on Eduroam Wi-Fi, but if you live in a rented apartment, consider a SIM-based data plan or sign up for a home internet package. Bonus: some student mobile contracts offer roaming benefits across the EU.
Student Discounts: Save Big with Your ID
From discounted train rides to cheaper cinema tickets, having an LSIC or ISIC card is like holding a golden ticket. Here’s where you’ll save:
- – Transportation: 50% off on buses, trains, and intercity coaches
- – Dining: 10–15% off at student-friendly cafes like Vero Cafe
- – Entertainment: Reduced prices at Apollo cinemas, museums, and even water parks like Vichy Aqua Park
Many gyms also offer student memberships. If you’re studying at universities like KTU or VILNIUS TECH, you should be able to access the campus fitness centers. Just look into all your available options diligently.
Social Life, Language & Integration
Lithuania offers a unique blend of Baltic charm and modern lifestyle. Most international students settle in Vilnius or Kaunas, where there’s a strong mix of locals and expats. English is widely spoken, especially among young people and in universities. Still, learning basic Lithuanian phrases goes a long way and may even open doors to local internships or part-time jobs.
Speaking of which, yes, international students can work full-time while studying! It’s a great way to gain experience, boost your CV, and offset living expenses. We’ve written more about this in our post 7 Ways to Work While Studying in Lithuania.
Can You Live Comfortably in Lithuania?
Absolutely. Whether you’re grabbing kebabs with classmates, taking weekend trips to Poland or Latvia, or enjoying nature in Trakai, Lithuania has the perfect balance of affordability, safety, and cultural richness. Lithuania student life is truly a dream here, you couldn’t ask for more.
Thousands of students are already living their best lives here, and you can too.
Ready to Start Your Lithuanian Adventure?
At Pumpkin Abroad Consulting, we help students from all over the world apply to top Lithuanian universities, find housing, secure permits and visas, and settle in comfortably. Whether you need help choosing the right program or understanding local student benefits, we’re here for you every step of the way.📩 Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!