Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, is known for its rich cultural heritage, interwar architecture, and vibrant arts scene. For those considering things to do in Kaunas, exploring the Old Town with its medieval architecture, including the Kaunas Castle, and visiting the Ninth Fort, a historic fortress and museum that provides a poignant look into Lithuania’s past, are top activities.
The city’s Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Boulevard) is a bustling pedestrian street, perfect for leisurely strolls, shopping, and enjoying local cafes. The M.K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art, dedicated to Lithuania’s most famous painter and composer, showcases a remarkable collection of his works.
Beyond its historical and cultural landmarks, Kaunas is set to be the European Capital of Culture in 2022, highlighting its dynamic cultural life and community initiatives. For those exploring the best places to visit in Lithuania, Kaunas’ blend of historical depth, artistic vibrancy, and cultural richness makes it a compelling destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania
1. Kaunas Old Town
Kaunas Old Town, with its medieval architecture, is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Notable sights include the Kaunas Castle, the Town Hall, known as the “White Swan,” and the beautiful Vilnius Street.
Location: Central Kaunas, Lithuania. Easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city.
Scenic Spot: A mix of medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, featuring charming cobbled streets and historic buildings.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (April-September) for the best weather and open-air cafes.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some cobbled streets may be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely walk through the Old Town to admire the architecture and stop at one of the many cafes for a traditional Lithuanian treat.
2. Kaunas Castle
Kaunas Castle, dating back to the 14th century, is a historic fortress with a museum inside. It’s one of the city’s most significant landmarks, representing Kaunas’s medieval history.
Location: Near the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris Rivers, in Kaunas Old Town.
Scenic Spot: A well-preserved 14th-century fortress with panoramic views from the castle tower.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for a pleasant walk around the castle grounds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the stairs to the tower may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
Price: €3 for adults, €1.50 for children and students.
Travel Tip: Climb the castle tower for a panoramic view of the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers.
3. Ninth Fort
The Ninth Fort is a former fortress that became a notorious prison and execution site during World War II. Today, it serves as a museum and a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and Soviet atrocities.
Location: Western Kaunas, approximately 7 km from the city center. Accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: A historical fortress and museum with Holocaust memorials and panoramic views from the fort.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for cooler weather; weekdays for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Recommended for older children and adults due to the heavy historical content.
Price: €4 for adults, €2 for students and children.
Travel Tip: The museum’s exhibitions are quite impactful; consider joining a guided tour for a more comprehensive understanding of the site’s history.
4. Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Boulevard)
Laisvės Alėja is a pedestrian boulevard in the heart of Kaunas, lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stroll, shop, and relax.
Location: A pedestrian street stretching through central Kaunas.
Scenic Spot: A lively boulevard lined with cafes, restaurants, and Art Deco buildings.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoons and evenings for the best atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for leisurely walks and family outings.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the boulevard and stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the many outdoor terraces.
5. Žmuidzinavičius Museum (Devil’s Museum)
The Devil’s Museum is a unique and quirky museum that houses a collection of more than 3,000 artistic representations of devils from around the world.
Location: Central Kaunas, near Laisvės Alėja.
Scenic Spot: A unique collection of over 3,000 devil sculptures and artworks from around the world.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for older children and adults; may not interest very young children.
Price: €5 for adults, €2.50 for students and children.
Travel Tip: This unusual museum is a must-visit for those interested in folk art and culture.
6. Pazaislis Monastery
Pazaislis Monastery, located on the outskirts of Kaunas, is a stunning example of Italian Baroque architecture. It’s part of a larger complex that includes a church and a convent.
Location: Eastern Kaunas, near the Kaunas Reservoir. Accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: A stunning 17th-century Baroque monastery surrounded by nature.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for the annual Pazaislis Music Festival.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some areas may have limited accessibility for strollers.
Price: Free to visit; guided tours cost around €3-€5.
Travel Tip: Visit during the summer when the monastery hosts the annual Pazaislis Music Festival.
7. M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum
This museum is dedicated to the works of M. K. Čiurlionis, a famous Lithuanian painter and composer. It also hosts other art collections and temporary exhibitions.
Location: Central Kaunas, near Laisvės Alėja.
Scenic Spot: A collection of paintings and musical compositions by Lithuania’s most famous artist and composer.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may not find it engaging.
Price: €6 for adults, €3 for students, free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to explore the museum thoroughly, as it offers a deep insight into Lithuanian art and culture.
8. Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park
The Kaunas Reservoir, the largest body of water in Lithuania, offers various recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. The surrounding regional park is perfect for nature lovers.
Location: Eastern Kaunas, surrounding the Kaunas Reservoir.
Scenic Spot: Lithuania’s largest artificial lake with hiking trails, picnic spots, and water sports.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming and boating; autumn for scenic hikes.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Price: Free to visit; boat rentals and activities vary in price.
Travel Tip: Consider taking a boat trip on the reservoir for scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
9. Historical Presidential Palace
The Historical Presidential Palace of Lithuania in Kaunas served as the Presidential residence during the interwar period. It now operates as a museum showcasing this important era in Lithuanian history.
Location: Central Kaunas, near Laisvės Alėja.
Scenic Spot: A historic building that served as Lithuania’s presidential residence in the interwar period.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor events in the palace gardens.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits for children.
Price: €4 for adults, €2 for students, free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: The museum gives a great overview of the Lithuanian state’s formation and development; don’t miss the interactive displays.
10. Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum
Located just outside of Kaunas, this open-air museum is one of the largest in Europe. It showcases traditional Lithuanian rural life through its collection of historical houses, farmsteads, and churches from different regions of the country.
Location: 20 km from Kaunas, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: One of Europe’s largest open-air museums, featuring historic Lithuanian villages, farmhouses, and churches.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn for traditional festivals and live demonstrations.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
Price: €8 for adults, €4 for students and children.
Travel Tip: Visit during a national holiday or festival to see the museum come to life with traditional celebrations, crafts, and activities.
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Kaunas, Lithuania: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Kaunas: 8/10 – Kaunas is family-friendly, offering numerous parks, playgrounds, and attractions such as the Kaunas Zoo, the Lithuanian Aviation Museum, and the Devil’s Museum. The Confluence Park and Kaunas Castle area provide excellent spots for outdoor activities with children.
Nightlife in Kaunas: 7/10 – Kaunas has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs, particularly around Laisvės Alėja and the Old Town. While not as extensive as in larger cities, the nightlife offers live music, trendy bars, and cozy pubs that cater to different tastes.
Sport in Kaunas: 8/10 – Kaunas is a sports hub, especially known for basketball. Home to the Žalgiris Kaunas basketball team, it offers numerous sports facilities. There are opportunities for water sports along the Nemunas River, as well as cycling, jogging, and outdoor gyms in parks.
Culture and Attractions in Kaunas: 9/10 – Kaunas is rich in cultural heritage with attractions like the Kaunas Castle, the Ninth Fort, and a variety of museums including the M.K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum. The city’s vibrant arts scene is highlighted by galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals.
Gastronomy in Kaunas: 8/10 – Kaunas has a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants offering traditional Lithuanian dishes as well as international cuisine. The city boasts an increasing number of trendy cafes, bistros, and fine dining options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Shopping in Kaunas: 7/10 – Kaunas offers a good range of shopping options, from local boutiques and craft shops to larger shopping centers like Akropolis and Mega. The Old Town area is particularly charming with its unique shops and local markets.
Prices in Kaunas: 8/10 – Kaunas is generally affordable compared to other European cities, offering good value for money for accommodation, dining, and shopping.
Average price for a hotel night: 80 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 12 €
Price of a beer: 3 €
Price of a coffee: 2 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Kaunas, Lithuania
For those looking to explore beyond the city’s vibrant streets, top day trips near Kaunas offer an enchanting glimpse into Lithuania’s rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From the historical depth of the Ninth Fort to the serene landscapes of the Kaunas Reservoir, each destination is easily accessible for a memorable exploration.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Kaunas accommodations range from modern hotels in the bustling city center to cozy guesthouses nestled in quiet neighborhoods, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable base to experience this dynamic cultural hub.
FAQ About Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania
What are the top attractions in Kaunas?
Key attractions in Kaunas include the Kaunas Castle, the Ninth Fort, the Old Town of Kaunas, and the Pazaislis Monastery.
Can I explore historical sites in Kaunas?
Absolutely! Kaunas is rich in history, offering sites like the Kaunas Castle, a medieval fortress, and the Ninth Fort, a former fortress and prison now turned into a museum.
Are there any unique museums in Kaunas?
Yes, Kaunas boasts unique museums such as the Devil’s Museum, featuring a collection of devil-related art and sculptures, and the M.K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum, dedicated to the famous Lithuanian painter and composer.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Kaunas?
Kaunas offers great outdoor experiences like walking along the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, exploring Ąžuolynas park, and visiting the Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park.
Is Kaunas good for family-friendly activities?
Yes, families will enjoy the Kaunas Zoo, the fun-filled Laisves aleja (Liberty Boulevard), and various interactive museums and parks around the city.
Where can I find traditional Lithuanian food in Kaunas?
Traditional Lithuanian cuisine can be enjoyed in many restaurants in Kaunas, especially in the Old Town, where you can try dishes like cepelinai, kibinai, and šaltibarščiai.
What cultural experiences does Kaunas offer?
Kaunas, a European Capital of Culture, offers rich cultural experiences like the Kaunas International Film Festival, various theatre performances, and the Kaunas Jazz Festival.
Are there shopping areas in Kaunas?
For shopping, visit the Akropolis and Mega shopping malls, or explore the charming boutiques and craft shops in Kaunas Old Town for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaunas
https://www.getyourguide.com/kaunas-l1577/
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