Šiauliai Travel Guide

Explore the best of Šiauliai, Lithuania with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the top attractions, the best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Šiauliai is a city located in the north-central part of Lithuania, in the region of Samogitia. Known for its wooden architecture, traditional food, and stunning natural beauty, Šiauliai attracts visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Lithuania and want to get off the beaten path, Šiauliai is a must-visit destination.

Introduction to Šiauliai

Šiauliai is a small city that is rich in history and culture. It is home to many beautiful old buildings, including several wooden houses that have been preserved from the 18th and 19th centuries. The city is also known for its stunning parks and natural beauty, which makes it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Šiauliai

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Šiauliai has plenty of attractions to keep you busy during your stay. Here are some of the best places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chaim Frenkel Villa - This beautiful 19th-century villa was once the home of a local Jewish merchant and is now a museum dedicated to the history of the Jewish community in Šiauliai.
  • The Sundial - Located in the center of the city, the Sundial is a symbol of the timelessness of Šiauliai’s history.
  • Šiauliai Regional Museum - This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Šiauliai region and is a great place to learn about the city’s past.
  • Šiauliai Hill of Crosses - A national pilgrimage site, the Hill of Crosses is a unique and deeply spiritual place. Visitors to the hill can see thousands of crosses of all sizes and styles.

Natural Attractions of Šiauliai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Šiauliai Botanic Garden - A beautiful park filled with exotic plants and trees, the Šiauliai Botanic Garden is the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the city.
  • The Ginkūnai Nature Reserve - Covering an area of over 1000 hectares, the Ginkūnai Nature Reserve is a protected area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
  • The Rėkyva Regional Park - Located just outside the city, the Rėkyva Regional Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Šiauliai

For outdoor enthusiasts, Šiauliai is a paradise of hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best routes in the city:

  • The Šiauliai City Trail - This trail takes you on a tour of the city’s most beautiful and historic sites, including parks, museums, and churches.
  • The Ginkūnai Nature Trail - This trail takes you through the heart of the Ginkūnai Nature Reserve and offers stunning views of the local flora and fauna.
  • The Velžys Trail - Located in the Rėkyva Regional Park, the Velžys Trail is a challenging but rewarding hiking trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the park.

Best Things to Do in Šiauliai: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, there are plenty of things to see and do in Šiauliai. Here are some of the best activities to try:

  • Take a walking tour of the city’s historic sites and landmarks.
  • Visit a local farm and learn about traditional Lithuanian agriculture.
  • Attend a traditional Lithuanian folk festival and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Take a bike tour of the city’s parks and natural areas.
  • Try traditional Lithuanian dishes and drinks at a local restaurant or tavern.

Week-Long Itinerary for Šiauliai

If you have a week to spend in Šiauliai, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks
2 Take a bike tour of the city’s parks and natural areas
3 Visit the Ginkūnai Nature Reserve and hike the Ginkūnai Nature Trail
4 Attend a traditional Lithuanian folk festival
5 Learn about traditional Lithuanian agriculture at a local farm
6 Hike the Velžys Trail in the Rėkyva Regional Park
7 Relax and enjoy the city’s local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Šiauliai

Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and delicious, and Šiauliai is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cepelinai - A traditional Lithuanian dish made from potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese.
  • Saltibarsciai - A cold beet soup that is perfect for hot summer days.
  • Šaltanosiai - A traditional Šiauliai dish made from rye bread and bacon.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass - A traditional Lithuanian drink made from bread and fermented water.
  • Beer - Lithuania is famous for its beer, and Šiauliai is home to several excellent breweries.

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

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodations, Šiauliai has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Hotel Tomas - A centrally-located hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Hostel Šiauliai - A budget-friendly hostel that is perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Guesthouse Skaistaziede - A beautiful guesthouse located just outside the city that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

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

If you’re looking for unique Lithuanian souvenirs, Šiauliai has plenty of options. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Amber jewelry - Lithuanian amber is famous around the world, and Šiauliai has several excellent shops that sell amber jewelry.
  • Linen products - Lithuania is known for its high-quality linen, and you can find everything from tablecloths to clothing in Šiauliai.
  • Woodcarvings - Šiauliai is home to several talented woodcarvers who create beautiful and unique pieces that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Šiauliai

Lithuanians are known for their hospitality and love of food and drink. If you’re visiting Šiauliai, be sure to take the time to experience the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Lithuanians love to celebrate, so be sure to attend a local festival or event if you have the chance.
  • When visiting someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates.
  • Lithuanians are proud of their local food and drink traditions, so be sure to try as many traditional dishes and drinks as possible.

Best Time to Visit Šiauliai

The best time to visit Šiauliai is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. The city is also beautiful in the winter, with snow-covered landscapes and cozy cafes and restaurants to warm up in.

Do’s and Don’ts of Šiauliai

If you’re traveling to Šiauliai, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try traditional Lithuanian dishes and drinks.
  • Take a bike tour of the city’s parks and natural areas.
  • Learn about the city’s history and culture at a local museum or historical site.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disrespect the local environment.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions if you need them.
  • Don’t skip the opportunity to attend a local festival or event.

Safety and Health

Šiauliai is a safe and healthy city, and there are no major health risks to be aware of. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions to stay safe and healthy while you’re there.

Safety in Šiauliai

  • While Šiauliai is generally a safe city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect your personal belongings.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone late at night in areas that are poorly lit or unfamiliar to you.

Health in Šiauliai

  • As with any destination, it’s important to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion during hot weather.
  • Make sure you have adequate medical insurance in case of emergency.

Getting to Šiauliai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Šiauliai is relatively easy, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Šiauliai

  • Šiauliai International Airport is located just a few kilometers outside the city and offers regular flights to major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Šiauliai

  • Šiauliai Bus Station is located in the center of the city and offers regular bus services to other Lithuanian cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Train services to Šiauliai are limited, but it is possible to take a train from Vilnius or Kaunas and then transfer to a bus to Šiauliai.

How to Get Around in Šiauliai

Šiauliai is a small city, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the city’s parks and natural areas, there are several transportation options available. These include:

  • Bicycles - Several bike rental shops are located throughout the city, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.
  • Taxis - Taxis are readily available in Šiauliai and are a convenient option for getting around the city.
  • Public Transportation - Šiauliai has a bus network that connects different parts of the city. Fares are affordable, and the buses are generally clean and reliable.

Where to Go Next from Šiauliai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in Lithuania, there are several exciting destinations and excursions that you can take from Šiauliai. Some of the best options include:

  • Vilnius - Lithuania’s capital city is just a few hours’ drive from Šiauliai and is home to stunning architecture, great food, and tons of cultural attractions.
  • Kaunas - The second-largest city in Lithuania, Kaunas is known for its beautiful Old Town and vibrant nightlife.
  • The Curonian Spit - A 98 km-long sand dune peninsula that stretches between Lithuania and Russia, the Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to stunning natural beauty and unique cultural traditions.

Conclusion

Šiauliai is a beautiful and fascinating city that is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just some good food and drink, Šiauliai has everything you need for a perfect vacation. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Šiauliai, Lithuania!

Vilnaus gatve pedestrian boulevard at night Vilnaus gatve pedestrian boulevard at night The Hill of Crosses The Hill of Crosses A pathway inside the Hill of Crosses A pathway inside the Hill of Crosses The Hill of Crosses after a snowfall The Hill of Crosses after a snowfall