Telšiai Travel Guide

Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, food scene, outdoor adventures, and more in Telšiai with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Telšiai

Telšiai is a charming town located in Samogitia, Lithuania. Famous for its lakes, hills, and pine forests, Telšiai’s natural beauty is unmatched, and the town’s rich history and culture add to its charm. The town has several museums that showcase the region’s history and several outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling. This comprehensive guide aims to help you explore the town’s attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Telšiai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Telšiai Regional Museum

The Telšiai Regional Museum is the perfect place to learn about the region’s rich history and culture. The museum’s permanent exhibition displays over 12,000 archeological, historical, and ethnographic items spanning from the 15th century to the present day.

Telšiai Cathedral

Constructued in the 16th century, Telšiai Cathedral is one of the town’s most iconic buildings. The stunning baroque architecture, stained glass windows, and impressive 63-meter bell tower are must-see attractions while visiting Telšiai.

Natural Attractions of Telšiai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Mastis

Lake Mastis is the largest lake in Telšiai and is a popular destination among visitors. This beautiful lake provides excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, or indulging in a leisurely lakeside walk surrounded by picturesque views.

Varniai Regional Park

Varniai Regional Park is Telšiai’s most beautiful natural attraction. The park covers an area of 52km2 and is home to several endangered species of mammals, reptiles, and fish. The park is also home to several hiking trails of different difficulty levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Telšiai

Telšiai Hiking Trail

The Telšiai Hiking Trail is one of the most popular trails for hiking enthusiasts. The trail is 9 km long, treks around the beautiful Lake Mastis and the charming Telšiai Cathedral.

Cycling Routes

Telšiai is also an excellent cycling destination. There are several cycling routes in the town and its surrounding areas suitable for all levels of cycling enthusiasts. The Telšiai surroundings offer a stunning landscape accompanied by scenic roads with very little traffic.

Best Things to Do in Telšiai: Activities and Tours

Telšiai Sightseeing Tour

The Telšiai Sightseeing Tour is an excellent way to learn more about the town’s history, culture, and attractions. An experienced guide will take you around town, explaining the significance of various landmarks in Telšiai.

Kayaking on Lake Mastis

For adventure seekers, kayaking on Lake Mastis offers an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the calm waters of the lake while taking in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.

Week-Long Itinerary for Telšiai

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, check-in to accommodations
Day 2 Telšiai Regional Museum
Day 3 Telšiai Cathedral
Day 4 Hiking on Telšiai Hiking Trail
Day 5 Cycling routes
Day 6 Kayaking on Lake Mastis
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Telšiai

Must-Try Dishes

Potato pancakes

Potato pancakes are the town’s signature dish and a must-try while in Telšiai. These hearty pancakes are made with grated potatoes, flour, and eggs and are typically served with sour cream and bacon.

Samogitian Sausages

Samogitian Sausages are a popular dish in Telšiai and Lithuania. These smoked sausages are made with pork, beef, garlic, and spices and are traditionally served with sauerkraut and potatoes.

Local Beverages

Šaltibarščiai

Šaltibarščiai is a cold beetroot soup and is the perfect summer refreshment. This soup is made with boiled beets, kefir, cucumber, and dill and is usually served cold with boiled potatoes or sour cream.

Alus

Alus is a traditional Lithuanian beer that is typically brewed with wheat or barley malt, hops, and yeast. Visitors can enjoy a cold, refreshing pint of alus while soaking in the beautiful scenery of Telšiai.

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

Telšiai Hotel

The Telšiai Hotel is located in the city center and is within walking distance of all main attractions in the town. The hotel offers guests comfortable accommodations, a breakfast buffet, and a restaurant serving traditional Lithuanian food.

Vienkiemis Guesthouse

The Vienkiemis Guesthouse is located in the countryside near Telšiai and offers guests a peaceful and relaxing experience. This guesthouse features comfortable guest rooms, a sauna, and beautiful outdoor spaces that offer stunning views of the surrounding woods.

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

Šakotis

Šakotis is a traditional Lithuanian cake made by pouring batter onto a spit and roasting it over an open flame. This cake is typically served at weddings and special occasions and is a perfect souvenir to bring back home.

Amber Jewelry

Lithuania is famous for its amber, and Telšiai offers several stores where visitors can purchase beautiful amber jewelry at an affordable price.

Local Culture and Customs of Telšiai

Telšiai is part of Samogitian culture, characterized by a unique language, customs, and traditions. The town celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Telšiai Festival in June and the Samogitian Festival in August.

Best Time to Visit Telšiai

The best time to visit Telšiai is between May and September when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors can expect sunny days, moderate temperatures and plenty of opportunities to explore the town’s attractions and enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Telšiai

Do:

  • Do try the local food, including the town’s signature dish of potato pancakes.
  • Do explore the town’s attractions, including the Telšiai Regional Museum and Telšiai Cathedral.
  • Do participate in the town’s festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in public areas.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing for outdoor activities and temperature changes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Telšiai

Telšiai is a relatively safe town, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any safety issues. However, visitors should still exercise caution, especially while engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Telšiai

Visitors to Telšiai are advised to have health insurance and ensure that their vaccines are up-to-date. Tap water in Telšiai is drinkable, but visitors are advised to drink bottled water to be safe.

Getting to Telšiai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Telšiai

Telšiai does not have an airport; visitors can arrive at the Palanga International Airport, which is located 70 km from Telšiai.

Bus Stations Near Telšiai

Several bus companies operate daily buses to Telšiai from Vilnius, Kaunas, and Riga.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to rent a car and self-drive to Telšiai. This option offers visitors flexibility and allows them to enjoy the scenic drives to Telšiai.

How to Get Around in Telšiai

Telšiai is small and easy to navigate either by walking or biking. Visitors can also choose to rent a car or hire a taxi to get around the town and its surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Telšiai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Klaipeda

Klaipeda is the third-largest city in Lithuania and offers visitors a glimpse of the region’s history and culture. The city features several museums, galleries, and landmarks, including the Castle Museum and the Old Town.

Ventes Ragas Ornithological Station

Located approximately 45 minutes from Telšiai, Ventes Ragas Ornithological Station is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The area features over 220 bird species, including the rare White-Tailed Eagle.

Conclusion

Telšiai is a hidden gem in Lithuania with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or traditional cuisine, Telšiai has something for everyone. We hope that our comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Telšiai and that you return home with unforgettable memories.

Telšiai at night with a view of the Cathedral Telšiai at night with a view of the Cathedral Church of The Assumption Church of The Assumption Orthodox Church of St. Nicolaus Orthodox Church of St. Nicolaus Katedros square at night with a view to fountain Katedros square at night with a view to fountain