Kaunas Travel Guide (Sūduva/Lithuania/Baltic states/Europe)

Introduction to Kaunas

Located in the Sūduva region of Lithuania, Kaunas is the country’s second-largest city and a cultural and historical hub of the country. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and numerous attractions, it’s no wonder more and more travelers are adding Kaunas to their European travel itinerary. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Kaunas.

List of Places to Visit in Kaunas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kaunas Castle - This 14th-century castle, built by the grand duke of Lithuania, is one of the city’s top attractions and a must-visit for history buffs.
Ninth Fort Museum - Located just outside the city, this museum offers a haunting glimpse into the horrors of the Holocaust and Soviet occupation.
Kaunas City Museum - Learn about the city’s rich history, from medieval times to the present day.
Sugihara House - This museum honors the Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara, who issued thousands of visas to Jews fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Kaunas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pazaislis Monastery - Located on the outskirts of Kaunas, this 17th-century Baroque masterpiece is surrounded by picturesque gardens.
Nemunas Delta Regional Park - With its vast marshes and birdwatching opportunities, this park is a nature lover’s paradise.
Kaunas Reservoir - This man-made lake offers plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, sailing, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaunas

Zaliakalnis Hill - This hill offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for hikers and bikers.
Vingis Park - Located in the heart of the city, this park features numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as a popular outdoor concert venue.
Kaunas Cycling Trail - This 22 km trail follows the Nemunas River and takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the city.

Best Things to Do in Kaunas: Activities and Tours

Devil’s Museum - This quirky museum is dedicated to all things devilish.
Kaunas Christ Resurrection Church - This impressive church boasts stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
Ghost Tour of Kaunas Old Town - A spooky and fun way to learn about the city’s haunted history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaunas

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit Kaunas Castle and Ninth Fort Museum
Day 2	Take a bike tour of the city and visit the Devil’s Museum
Day 3	Explore Pazaislis Monastery and Nemunas Delta Regional Park
Day 4	Visit Sugihara House and Kaunas City Museum
Day 5	Take a day trip to Trakai Castle
Day 6	Relax at the Kaunas Reservoir and explore Vingis Park
Day 7	Take a ghost tour of Kaunas Old Town and visit the Christ Resurrection Church

Food and Drink Scene of Kaunas

Must-Try Dishes

Cepelinai - Potato dumplings with meat or mushroom filling, served with sour cream and bacon bits.
Saltibarsciai - Cold beet soup with cucumbers, boiled eggs, and sour cream.
Kugelis - Potato pudding with bacon, onion, and sour cream.

Local Beverages

Švyturys - A popular Lithuanian beer brand.
Krupnikas - A traditional Lithuanian honey liqueur.

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

Park Inn by Radisson Kaunas - This modern hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
Kaunas City Hostel - This budget-friendly hostel is located in the city center and offers clean and comfortable dormitory-style rooms.
Magnus Hotel - This stylish boutique hotel is located in the historic district of the city and offers charming rooms and excellent amenities.

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

Amber jewelry - Lithuania is known for its high-quality amber, and you can find a wide variety of beautiful jewelry in Kaunas.
Linen textiles - Lithuania is famous for its linen, and you can find everything from tablecloths to clothing made from this durable fabric.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaunas

Lithuanians are known for their love of nature and outdoor activities, so don’t be surprised to see locals biking, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. It’s also customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, so be sure to ask before entering with your shoes on.

Best Time to Visit Kaunas

The best time to visit Kaunas is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you’re looking for cheaper prices and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaunas

Do:

Try the local food and drink.
Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels.
Visit the city’s many museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

Wear your shoes inside someone’s home without asking.
Litter or behave disrespectfully in public spaces.
Ignore the country’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaunas

Kaunas is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Kaunas

Lithuania has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics in Kaunas that provide quality medical care. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when visiting a foreign country.

Getting to Kaunas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kaunas

Kaunas International Airport - Located just 14 km from the city center, this airport serves several European destinations.
Vilnius International Airport - Located 100 km from Kaunas, this airport serves several international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Kaunas

Kaunas Bus Station - Located in the city center, this station serves several domestic and international destinations.
Vilnius Bus Station - Located 100 km from Kaunas, this station serves several international destinations.

Other Options

You can also reach Kaunas by train, with several daily connections from major Lithuanian cities and international destinations.

How to Get Around in Kaunas

Kaunas has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trolleybuses, that can take you anywhere in the city. If you prefer, you can also rent a bike or a car to explore the city on your own.

Where to Go Next from Kaunas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vilnius - Lithuania’s capital city is just a short train or bus ride away and offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.
Trakai - This picturesque town is home to a stunning 14th-century castle and is just a short day trip from Kaunas.
Klaipeda - This coastal city on the Baltic Sea is known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.

Conclusion

Kaunas is a charming and historic city that has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. With this guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Lithuania.