Trakai is a small town of 5,000 people just 28 km west of Vilnius in Lithuania with origins dating back to 1337. The town features a large array of different community nationalities (Karaims, Tatars, Lithuanians, Russians, Jews and Poles). The highlight of the town has to be the Trakai Island Castle on Lake Galvé. Today it serves as a museum as well as a venue for festivals and concerts.

The term Baltic State is geopolitical and refers to the 3 sovereign states located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, which have formed close intergovernmental and parliamentary ties with each other. Each capital is quite different and has much to offer. This guide breaks down the Baltic capital cities of Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia), and Vilnius (Lithuania).

Vilnius is rich in historical and cultural entities that serves as the capital of the Baltic State of Lithuania. My trip here took me to great places like St. Anne's Church, Vilnius Cathedral, the Three Crosses, Gediminas Castle Tower, Bastion Hill, Cathedral and Town Hall Squares, Pilies and Literatai Streets, and Missionary Gardens, just to name a few. This was my FAVORITE Baltic Capital!

Estonia's capital of Tallinn is a vastly underrated city not only in the Baltics, but in all of Europe. As technologically advanced as the city is, it boasts a wonderful Old Town. Other attractions include Kadriorg Palace, the artsy district of Noblessner, Victory Square and Column Monument, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and great bars like Fersen and cafes like Røst.

The Art Nouveau style of the Latvian capital of Riga is a refreshing change from the skyscrapers that usually accompany capital cities. This city can be reached by bus, plane, or ferry and boasts city center attractions like Riga Castle, Three Brothers, House of the Blackheads, Swedish Gate, St. Peter's Church, and Riga Market.