Vilnius to Uppsala Road Trip Guide for Adventurers

The road from Vilnius to Uppsala stretches about 900 kilometers, a journey that crosses three countries and two ferry crossings. The route is a patchwork of Baltic highways, coastal roads, and Scandinavian landscapes. Did you know that the E67 highway, also known as the Via Baltica, runs through Lithuania and Latvia, but after Riga, you must take the E4 ferry from Ventspils to Nynäshamn, Sweden? This 8-hour maritime leg is a unique part of the trip, offering a rest from driving and a taste of Baltic Sea crossing.

Many travelers wonder is it worth driving Vilnius to Uppsala given the ferry crossing. The answer: absolutely, for the blend of cultures and scenery. The drive takes about 10 hours of pure driving plus the ferry, so plan for two days.

The best roads for this trip are the A1/E85 from Vilnius to Kaunas, then the A2/E272 to Panevėžys, and finally the E67 to Riga. After Riga, take the A10/E22 to Ventspils. The ferry from Ventspils to Nynäshamn is operated by Stena Line and takes about 8 hours. From Nynäshamn, the E4 motorway leads directly to Uppsala.

Fuel prices vary: Lithuania averages €1.50/L, Latvia €1.55/L, and Sweden around €1.80/L. The total fuel cost for the drive is roughly €180. Toll roads are minimal – only a small section in Latvia may require a vignette (€10 for 24 hours).

• Filter coffee at Lietuvos Spauda gas stations in Lithuania
• Try speķa pīrāgi (bacon pies) at Latvian rest stops
• Swedish rest areas have excellent seafood sandwiches

For those seeking best stops Vilnius to Uppsala, plan to refuel and rest every 2-3 hours. A good midway break is Riga or the coastal town of Ventspils before the ferry.

Road quality is good on main highways, but secondary roads can be narrow and poorly lit. Speed cameras are common in Latvia. Seatbelts and headlights are mandatory year-round. Winter driving may require winter tires.

For families, stop at the Ķemeri National Park in Latvia with boardwalks over bogs, or the Turaida Castle for a fairytale break. Pet-friendly stops include the beach at Liepaja, where dogs are allowed, and many Swedish rest areas with designated dog runs.

• Rest zones: Every 50 km on the E67 there are simple rest areas with tables
• Fatigue tip: The ferry provides a perfect break – book a cabin to sleep
• Hidden gem: The Abandoned Soviet missile base at Skrunda-1 in Latvia (off-route)

To how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, consider using this guide.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics

Summer (June-August) offers long daylight and mild temps, ideal for driving. Autumn brings golden forests; winter offers snowy landscapes but icy roads. Spring can be muddy. The ferry crossing is most scenic at sunset, especially in summer.

Lithuania offers rolling hills and dense forests along the A1. Near Kaunas, the Nemunas River delta is a haven for birdwatchers. Latvia's coastline near Jurmala boasts white sandy beaches, though slightly off-route. The longest stretch of natural landscape is the Kurzeme Peninsula, with pine forests and dunes.

Local commerce thrives at roadside markets. Look for amber jewelry and smoked fish in Lithuania, and handmade linen in Latvian villages. Swedish farm shops near Uppsala sell local cheese and preserves.

• Visit the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai, a unique pilgrimage site
• Stop at the Kuldīga waterfall, Latvia's widest waterfall
• In Sweden, the Fjäderholmarna islands offer artisanal crafts

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Vilnius' Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a must before you leave. Along the route, the Curonian Spit (Lithuania) and Riga's historic center are worth detours. In Sweden, the Falu copper mine and the rock carvings in Tanum are near Uppsala but require a detour.