Panevėžys Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, best places to visit, local culture, and logistics for your trip to Panevėžys, Lithuania.


Introduction to Panevėžys

Panevėžys is a charming city located in the north of Lithuania, in the region of Aukštaitija. It is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. The city has a long and interesting history that dates back to the 16th century. Today, Panevėžys is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Panevėžys

Whether you are interested in exploring the history and culture of the city or enjoying the natural beauty of the area, there are plenty of sights and attractions to visit in Panevėžys. Here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Panevėžys Museum of Regional Studies: This museum showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Panevėžys and the surrounding region.
  • Juozo Miltinio Theater: The oldest professional theater in Lithuania, the Juozo Miltinio Theater offers a diverse repertoire of dramas, operas, and musicals.
  • Kazys Vitkevičius Square: Located in the heart of Panevėžys, this square is the center of cultural events and festivals, including the popular International street theatre festival ‘Laikas vaikams’ (Time for children).
  • St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church: This impressive baroque-style church was built in the early 18th century and features stunning frescoes and sculptures inside.
  • Panevėžys Jewish Memorial: This sculpture and memorial site commemorate the tragedy of Panevėžys’ Jewish community that was destroyed during the Holocaust.

Natural Attractions of Panevėžys: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Karmelava Forest Reserve: The reserve occupies 6,550 hectares of mixed forests, meadows, and wetlands. It is home to various plant and animal species and is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
  • Lutriskes Lake: Situated just outside Panevėžys, Lutriskes Lake is a great place to go swimming, fishing, or boating in the summer.
  • Birutė Park: This beautiful park located in the city center offers scenic walking paths and stunning views of the river Nevezis that flows nearby.
  • Skaistakalnis Hill: This hill offers a panoramic view of the city, and is a popular spot for romantic walks or picnics.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Panevėžys

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Panevėžys has plenty of options for hiking and biking adventures. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

  • Karmelava trails: The 8-kilometer trail is ideal for advanced riders looking to blow the cobwebs away and is signposted along the way.
  • Lutriskes trails: This 5-kilometer is an easy and fast ride suitable for beginners and riders looking to refresh their skills.
  • Skaistakalnis Trail: The shorter 1-kilometer trail for walking, jogging and biking is paved with asphalt and is suitable for families with children and seniors.

Best Things to Do in Panevėžys: Activities and Tours

Panevėžys is packed with amazing things to see and do. Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in the city:

  • Visit the Panevėžys Museum of Regional Studies: Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and traditions of Panevėžys and the surrounding region.
  • Take a walking tour of the city: Explore the city’s beautiful architecture and learn about its fascinating history with a local guide by taking a walking tour.
  • Visit Birutė Park and Skaistakalnis Hill: Take a peaceful walk in the park, or climb up Skaistakalnis Hill for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Go on a shopping spree: Panevėžys has a charming city center with many shops selling local handicrafts, textiles and clothes.
  • Join a cultural event: The city has a lively cultural scene featuring frequent events, shows, and festivals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Panevėžys

If you have a week to spend in Panevėžys, here’s one suggested itinerary that covers all the top attractions:

Day 1 Morning: Visit St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church Afternoon: Explore Juozo Miltinio Theatre
Day 2 Morning: Visit Panevėžys Museum of Regional Studies Afternoon: Walk around Kazys Vitkevičius Square
Day 3 Morning: Take a leisurely walk in Birutė Park Afternoon: Visit the Panevėžys Jewish Memorial
Day 4 Morning: Go on a shopping spree in the city center Afternoon: Head to Lutriskes Lake for swimming and relaxation
Day 5 Morning: Take a bike ride on one of the trails Afternoon: Visit Karmelava Forest Reserve for a hike
Day 6 Morning: Visit Skaistakalnis Hill for breathtaking views of the city Afternoon: Explore the local culture and enjoy a cultural event
Day 7 Head to nearby cities for excursions  

Food and Drink Scene of Panevėžys

Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and Panevėžys offers plenty of local delicacies and dishes that represent the area’s culinary traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kibinai: These traditional filled pastries made with either lamb or beef are a must-try.
  • Cepelinai: A signature dish of Lithuanian cuisine, these dumplings of grated potatoes filled with meat or curd cheese, served with sour cream and bacon, may fill you up for the whole day.
  • Blinai: These sweet or savoury Lithuanian pancakes are a popular breakfast or dessert choice, usually garnished with jam, sour cream, or sweet cottage cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Lithuanian beer: Lithuanian beer is well-renowned, with numerous local breweries that produce delicious varieties to suit all tastes.
  • Kvass: This traditional Lithuanian drink is a fermented beverage made from bread, beets, or other grains. It’s a refreshing and healthy option for those who don’t want to drink alcohol.

Where to Stay in Panevėžys: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options available for travelers in Panevėžys. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best options:

  • Panespo residence: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Vytis hostel: A budget-friendly option, ideal for solo travelers on a tight budget.
  • Eglių vetra: A cozy guesthouse situated near Karmelava Forest Reserve, perfect for those who wish to enjoy nature and its surroundings.

What to Buy in Panevėžys: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Panevėžys is known for its traditional handicrafts and crafts, which make excellent souvenirs for friends and family back home. Here are some local products to consider purchasing:

  • Linen: Lithuania is famous for its high-quality, hand-woven linen products such as tablecloths, napkins, clothes, and hand towels.
  • Pottery: The region around Panevėžys has a rich tradition of pottery, and you can buy beautiful handmade pottery products like plates, bowls, cups, and more
  • Amber jewelry: Amber jewelry is a popular gift item in Lithuania. It’s a unique keepsake that can add a touch of nostalgia to any outfit.

Local Culture and Customs of Panevėžys

Lithuanians are proud of their history, culture, and traditions. They are generally warm and welcoming to tourists. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Respect the language: Lithuanian is the official language. Locals appreciate it when visitors attempt to communicate in their language, so learn a few basic phrases before you arrive.
  • Timekeeping: Lithuanians are known for their punctuality. Make sure you arrive promptly for any appointments or meetings.
  • Etiquette: Lithuanians often shake hands when they meet someone. They also appreciate it when visitors remove their shoes before entering a home.

Best Time to Visit Panevėžys

The best time to visit Panevėžys is in the summer months when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming are ideal. However, each season has its unique charm, from summer festivals to winter festivities. Plan your visit based on your interests.

Do’s and Don’ts of Panevėžys

To make the most out of your visit to Panevėžys, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs: Lithuanians are proud of their traditions, so respect them by adhering to local customs and etiquette.
  • Try Lithuanian cuisine: Lithuanian food is delicious and diverse. Try the local specialties such as kibinai, cepelinai, and skilandis.
  • Explore the outdoors: Panevėžys has many natural and scenic spots to explore. Take advantage of them by going hiking, biking, or swimming.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Lithuania is known for its clean environment. Don’t litter and dispose of your trash properly.
  • Be loud and disrespectful: Lithuanians are generally reserved and polite. Avoid being loud or disrespectful in public places.
  • Overlook local culture: Lithuania has a rich culture and heritage. Do your research before you arrive to fully appreciate it.

Safety and Health

Panevėžys is generally a safe city, but travelers should still take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety in Panevėžys

  • Be aware of pickpockets: As with any popular tourist destination, pickpockets may target travelers. Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your valuables in a secure place.
  • Watch your step: The city has some cobblestone streets that can be slippery, particularly in winter.
  • Don’t walk alone at night: Avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas at night.

Health in Panevėžys

  • Drink tap water: The tap water in Panevėžys is safe to drink.
  • Wear sunscreen: The sun in Lithuania can be strong, even in winter. Wear sunscreen or other protective measures to prevent sunburn.
  • Get travel vaccinations: Check with your doctor if you need any vaccinations before traveling to Lithuania.

Getting to Panevėžys: Transportation Options and Logistics

Panevėžys is easily accessible by various transport options. Here are some of the best options to consider:

Airports Near Panevėžys

  • Vilnius International Airport: Located in the capital city of Lithuania, Vilnius airport is the closest airport to Panevėžys, approximately 130 km away.
  • Kaunas Airport: Kaunas airport is 165 km away from Panevėžys.

Bus Stations Near Panevėžys

From Vilnius city, there are frequent coaches and trains running to Panevėžys daily. Panevėžys has a central bus station that offers regular local and international bus services to many cities.

Other Options

  • Private Transfer: Private transfer service is available from Vilnius or Kaunas airport directly to Panevėžys.
  • Car Rental: There are several car rental agencies available at Vilnius and Kaunas airport if you prefer to hire a car and drive to Panevėžys.

How to Get Around in Panevėžys

The best way to explore Panevėžys is on foot, as most of the city’s sights and attractions are within walking distance. Public transport, such as buses, runs regularly and covers most parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Panevėžys: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Panevėžys is surrounded by several picturesque towns and villages, each promising adventure and interesting attractions. Here are some nearby destinations to consider visiting:

  • Anykščiai: A popular destination located 40 km from Panevėžys, famous for its natural beauty, scenic waterfalls and treetop walk.
  • Biržai: A small town 50 km north of Panevėžys with a massive 17th-century fortress and brewery museum, Baltas wheat beer, and opportunity for beer tasting.
  • Riga: Riga, the capital of Latvia, is 230 km northeast of Panevėžys and is famous for its medieval Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture, and concerts and festivals.

Conclusion

Panevėžys is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Lithuania. It offers something for everyone, from museums and historical sites to hiking trails and outdoor adventures. Plan your visit to this charming city today and enjoy all it has to offer.

Central Panevezys Central Panevezys