Lithuania continues to bolster its presence in the international tourism scene, having recently received the prestigious ITB Health Tourism Award 2025. This award, presented by the world’s largest tourism exhibition, ITB Berlin, recognises countries for their achievements in developing health tourism infrastructure, service quality, and international visibility.
Promising Future for Lithuania’s Health Tourism Sector
“This recognition highlights that Lithuania’s health tourism sector is gaining international recognition and has substantial potential for growth,” says Agila Barzdienė, Deputy Minister of Economy and Innovation. “It opens up opportunities for attracting investment and expanding tourism services. Strengthening this sector is a key priority for us as we seek funding for strategic development.”
Rapid Growth in the Health and Wellness Sector
Lithuania was awarded during the ITB Medical & Health Night in Berlin on 5 March, where it was acknowledged for its high-level medical and wellness services, sustainable development, and successful international collaboration. The ITB Health Tourism Award 2025 affirms that Lithuania competes successfully with leading European resorts and sanatoriums and is becoming a global leader in innovation.
“This award is further proof that Lithuania is becoming a more visible and valued destination in the international health tourism market. Our resorts and sanatoriums combine tradition and innovation, attracting visitors worldwide and earning the recognition of industry experts,” says Olga Gončarova, Director of Go Lithuania.
Unique Natural Resources and International Recognition
Lithuania’s sanatoriums and spa centres are renowned for their unique natural resources, including mineral water and therapeutic mud, which are internationally recognised for their healing properties. Lithuania is also included in the EU Patienten.DE list, which confirms the highest quality standards.
In 2024, Lithuanian sanatoriums and rehabilitation centres saw a record 290,000 visitors, a 16% increase from the previous year. The number of overnight stays grew by 21%, reaching nearly 1.5 million, while the average stay length increased from 4.8 to 5 days.
Growing International Attention
The international recognition of Lithuania’s wellness sector is steadily rising. In 2024, Forbes highlighted Lithuania as one of the top wellness travel destinations. The country’s resorts and rehabilitation services, such as those offered by SPA Vilnius, were specifically noted for their excellence.
Strengthening Lithuania’s Reputation in Health Tourism
Kristina Citvarienė, Executive Director of the Lithuanian Resort Association, underscores that wellness tourism is a promising sector for Lithuania’s hospitality industry. Awards like the ITB Health Tourism Award and events like the European Resorts and Spas Association (ESPA) congress further strengthen Lithuania’s position as a high-quality wellness tourism destination in Europe.
“Lithuanian resorts have long been known for their unique wellness traditions and innovative treatments. This award is a testament to our sector’s commitment and proof that we are on the right path, blending tradition with modern technology,” says K. Citvarienė.
Lithuania’s Growing International Recognition
The ITB Health Tourism Award 2025 adds to Lithuania’s impressive list of international recognitions. Last year, LonelyPlanet named Lithuania the second-best travel destination worldwide and the top destination in Europe for 2025.
Four Lithuanian restaurants were awarded stars in the prestigious Michelin guide, with one receiving a green Michelin star and four others being recognised with the Bib Gourmand distinction.
Vilnius also earned two major titles: European Christmas Capital 2025 and European Green Capital 2025.
A Bright Future for Lithuania’s Tourism Industry
“This latest award, along with other international recognitions like the LonelyPlanet recommendation and Michelin stars, proves that Lithuania is becoming increasingly visible and valued on the global map. Our health tourism services, blending nature with modern technology, are becoming a key brand for Lithuania in the international market,” says O. Gončarova, Director of Go Lithuania.
