Kaunas - Discovering Lithuania

Travelling to Kaunas

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kaunas, a pretty good destination in Lithuania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kaunas and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kaunas, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Lithuania, here's everything to know about Kaunas for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kaunas

Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania, located in the central part of the country. With a population of over 300,000 people, it is an important cultural, economic, and academic center. The city offers a rich history dating back to the 13th century, as well as a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and a variety of outdoor activities. Some of the popular attractions that tourists often visit in Kaunas include the historic Old Town, the Kaunas Castle, the Ninth Fort Museum, and the Devil's Museum. Additionally, Kaunas is known for its beautiful parks, modern architecture, and delicious Lithuanian cuisine.

What to visit in Kaunas

1. Kaunas Castle - This medieval castle was built in the 14th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, learn about its history through exhibits and artifacts, and take in the stunning views of the city from the castle's towers.
2. Ninth Fort - This fort played a significant role in Lithuania's history during World War II and is now a museum and memorial to those who lost their lives in the war. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its dark history through exhibits and guided tours.
3. Pazaislis Monastery - This Baroque-style monastery was built in the 17th century and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Lithuania. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the history and significance of the monastery through exhibits and guided tours.
4. Lithuanian Zoo - This zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from all over the world, including tigers, lions, giraffes, and elephants. Visitors can take guided tours, attend animal shows, and participate in other interactive activities.
5. M.K. Ciurlionis National Art Museum - This art museum features the works of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, a famous Lithuanian artist and composer. Visitors can view his paintings, as well as exhibits showcasing the works of other Lithuanian artists.
6. Kaunas Cathedral - This Gothic-style cathedral was built in the 15th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the cathedral and learn about its history through exhibits and guided tours.
7. Vytautas the Great War Museum - This museum features exhibits detailing Lithuania's military history, including exhibits on World War I and II and Lithuanian independence. Visitors can view artifacts and learn about the country's military heroes.
8. Santaka Park - This park is located in the heart of Kaunas and is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and relaxation. Visitors can walk along the Nemunas River, enjoy the park's gardens, and visit its playgrounds and other recreational facilities.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Lithuania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kaunas.

When to go on holiday to Kaunas

The best time to visit Kaunas is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is mild and sunny with daytime temperatures averaging around 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). The city also hosts a number of popular events and festivals during this time, including the Kaunas Jazz Festival, the Pažaislis Music Festival, and the refurbished Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature reopening. However, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of May and September are also good options. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists to contend with.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kaunas

There are several ways to get to Kaunas, Lithuania: 1. By plane: The closest airport is Kaunas International Airport (KUN), which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. There are various airlines that operate flights to Kaunas from different cities across Europe.
2. By train: Kaunas has a well-developed railway system, and there are trains from Vilnius and other cities in Lithuania. You can also take a train from cities in neighboring countries, such as Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Belarus.
3. By bus: There are connections from many cities in Lithuania to Kaunas by bus. You can also take a bus from neighboring countries such as Latvia, Estonia, and Poland.
4. By car: You can rent a car and drive to Kaunas from other cities in Lithuania. The main road that connects Kaunas with Vilnius is the A1 highway.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Kaunas!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kaunas, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kaunas

Here are some of the typical foods of Kaunas, Lithuania, along with a short description for each of them: 1. Cepelinai: Also known as Zeppelin, cepelinai is a traditional Lithuanian dish consisting of large, football-shaped dumplings made of grated potatoes and stuffed with meat, mushrooms, or curd cheese. They are usually served with sour cream or bacon sauce.
2. Kibinai: Kibinai are small, crescent-shaped pastries filled with beef, onions, and sometimes carrots or potatoes. They are a popular snack food in Lithuania and are often sold at outdoor markets.
3. Saltibarsciai: Saltibarsciai is a cold pink soup made from beets, buttermilk, and boiled eggs. It is typically eaten during the summertime and is thought to have cooling properties.
4. Kugelis: Kugelis is a Lithuanian potato pudding that is baked in the oven. It is made from grated potatoes, eggs, milk, and bacon and is typically served with sour cream.
5. Bulviniai blynai: Bulviniai blynai are Lithuanian potato pancakes that are made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour. They are usually fried until crispy and served with sour cream or apple sauce.
6. Suktinukai: Suktinukai are small beef rolls that are often filled with cheese or mushrooms. They are typically served as an appetizer or snack.
7. Varškės sūris: Varškės sūris is a type of Lithuanian curd cheese that is similar in texture to cottage cheese. It is often used in cakes, pastries, and other desserts.
Overall, the cuisine in Kaunas, Lithuania, is hearty and flavorful, with a focus on potatoes, meat, and dairy products.
You can find general info about typical foods in Lithuania here.

Is Kaunas an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other European destinations, Kaunas is relatively affordable. Accommodation, food, and transportation prices are generally lower than in many other popular destinations in Europe. However, prices can vary depending on where you stay, where you eat, and what you do. In general, the city offers various options for every budget, from luxury hotels to hostels, and from high-end restaurants to street food stands. So, overall, Kaunas can be considered a budget-friendly destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Kaunas

Kaunas is divided into several districts, but the most popular areas for tourists to stay in are the Old Town and the City Centre. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many beautiful historic buildings, churches, museums, and restaurants. It's also close to many of the main attractions of the city, such as the Kaunas Castle and the Town Hall Square. The City Centre is a more modern district, with many shops, cafes, and bars, and it's a good option if you want to be close to the public transportation network. Other popular areas to stay in Kaunas include Senamiestis, Zaliakalnis, and Aleksotas.
You can check hotel prices at Kaunas here:
Booking.com

Is Kaunas a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kaunas is generally considered a safe place for tourists. As in any city, it is always important to take the usual precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night, not leaving valuables unattended, and being aware of your surroundings. However, overall, Kaunas is a safe and pleasant city to explore as a tourist. Additionally, Lithuanians are known for their hospitality and welcoming attitude towards visitors, which makes Kaunas a great destination to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Lithuania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kaunas.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kaunas the most?

Kaunas has something to offer for different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: 1. Couples: Couples looking for a romantic getaway can explore the charming Old Town with its narrow streets, small cafes and restaurants, the beautiful Kaunas Castle, and the lovely confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers.
2. Young people: Kaunas is a vibrant student city with a lively nightlife scene. The city offers many bars, clubs, and music venues where young people can party and have fun. Additionally, Kaunas hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the International Kaunas Jazz Festival and the Kaunas International Film Festival.
3. Families: Kaunas has several family-friendly attractions such as the Kaunas Zoo, the Children's Museum, and the water park. The city also offers many parks and green spaces where families can enjoy a picnic or a stroll.
Overall, Kaunas can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, whether you are a couple, young person, or family.

How to get around Kaunas

In Kaunas, you can use buses, trolleybuses, and taxis to get around the city. The bus and trolleybus network is extensive and convenient, with frequent schedules and low fares. Taxis are also widely available, but they can be more expensive than public transportation. Additionally, cycling and walking are great options for exploring the city, especially during the warmer months.

What to see around Kaunas

There are many nice places to visit in a day trip from Kaunas. Here are some suggestions: 1. Vilnius: Lithuania's capital city is just an hour away by car or train. You can spend the day exploring the Old Town, visiting the museums, and sampling the local cuisine.
2. Trakai Castle: This picturesque castle is located on an island in Lake Galvė and is just a 30-minute drive from Kaunas. You can take a boat tour around the lake and explore the castle's history and architecture.
3. Ninth Fort: This former Soviet prison camp and Nazi execution site is now a museum and memorial to the victims. It's located just outside of Kaunas and is a powerful and solemn reminder of Lithuania's past.
4. Pazaislis Monastery: This baroque monastery is located on the outskirts of Kaunas and is a stunning example of Lithuanian architecture. You can explore the grounds, attend a concert in the monastery's church, or take a guided tour.
5. Kaunas Reservoir: This artificial lake is located just 20 minutes from Kaunas and is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. You can rent a boat or kayak and explore the lake's many coves and bays.
For every travel information about Lithuania you can click here.

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