ALL INTERACTIVE MAPS
ALL INTERACTIVE MAPS
ABOUT MAPTURAS
Hey everyone, I’m Paulius, the owner of Mapturas!
I’ve lived my whole life in Lithuania, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Latvia and Estonia countless times. Each time I crossed the border, I was more and more captivated by the stunning beauty and rich history these countries have to offer. From the charming streets of Riga to the peaceful landscapes of Estonia, there’s so much to discover, and it’s all just waiting to be explored.
That’s why I created Mapturas – to share the hidden gems of the Baltic States with the world. My mission is simple: I want to help you explore the Baltics in a way that’s easy, exciting, and truly unforgettable. With Mapturas’ interactive maps, you’ll be able to discover places that go beyond the usual tourist spots and dive deep into the unique culture and beauty of these incredible countries.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for something new, I’m here to help you uncover the wonders of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Let’s embark on this journey together and make the Baltic States your next great adventure!
TRAVELLING IN ESTONIA
Estonia is a country known for its enchanting natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With a diverse landscape featuring forests, bogs, lakes, and a stunning coastline along the Baltic Sea, Estonia is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The capital, Tallinn, boasts a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside modern attractions and a thriving tech scene. Tartu, the intellectual heart of the country, is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and a lively cultural atmosphere. The climate is temperate, with cold winters and warm summers, ideal for exploring the country’s national parks and nature reserves, like Lahemaa National Park. Estonian culture is deeply rooted in its folk traditions, music, and dance, and it celebrates unique festivals like Jaanipäev (Midsummer’s Eve) and Tallinn Music Week. The official language is Estonian, a Finno-Ugric language related to Finnish, and while many people speak English, the language remains an important part of national identity. Estonia’s cuisine features hearty dishes like kama (a traditional flour-based dish) and verivorst (blood sausage), reflecting its rural traditions. Estonia’s history as a part of the Soviet Union and its peaceful struggle for independence in the early 1990s add depth to its modern identity, while sites like Kadriorg Palace and Pikk Hermann Tower showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. With its mix of nature, history, and innovation, Estonia offers a unique travel experience.
TRAVELLING IN LITHUANIA
Lithuania is a country rich in history, nature, and culture. Its stunning landscapes feature lush forests, over 3,000 lakes, and unique sites like the Curonian Spit and Trakai Castle. The capital, Vilnius, is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and vibrant arts scene, while Kaunas blends history and modern culture, and Klaipėda, with its German influence, offers access to the Baltic Sea. The climate is temperate, with cold winters and warm summers, ideal for outdoor activities. Lithuanians are proud of their heritage, and their folk traditions, music, and dance play a key role in daily life. The official language is Lithuanian, one of the oldest languages in the world, although many people also speak English. Lithuania’s hearty cuisine includes dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and its festivals, such as Joninės (Midsummer Festival) and the Vilnius International Film Festival, showcase the country’s rich traditions. Lithuania’s deep history, from the Grand Duchy to its 20th-century struggle for independence, is reflected in sites like the Hill of Crosses, symbolizing the nation’s resilience. With a blend of ancient pagan roots and Christian influences, Lithuania offers a unique cultural experience that is both historic and modern.
TRAVELLING IN LATVIA
Latvia, located in the heart of the Baltic region, is a country known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its diverse nature includes vast forests, over 2,000 lakes, and a pristine coastline along the Baltic Sea, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and beach vacations. The capital, Riga, is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, historic Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and a lively arts scene. Jurmala, a seaside resort town, offers beautiful beaches and a relaxing atmosphere. Latvia experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers, making it perfect for year-round travel. The Latvian people are known for their strong sense of national pride and deep-rooted cultural traditions, including folk music, dance, and festivals like Jāņi (Midsummer Festival). The official language, Latvian, is one of the oldest and most distinctive languages in the world, and English is widely spoken in urban areas. Latvian cuisine is hearty and includes dishes like grey peas with bacon and piragi (pastries filled with bacon or mushrooms), reflecting the country’s agricultural heritage. Latvia’s history includes its time under Russian and German rule, as well as its peaceful regaining of independence in the early 1990s. Historic sites like Rundāle Palace and Sigulda showcase Latvia’s rich cultural past, making the country a fascinating blend of nature, history, and modernity.