Best things to do in Kaunas
Lithuania’s second city, Kaunas, was once the country’s capital and was the European Capital of Culture in 2022, with the shiny, modern New Town juxtaposed against the picturesque medieval Old Town. From its many historical landmarks, cultural attractions, attractive churches and lush parks, here’s a selection of the best things to do on your Kaunas holidays:
Viewpoints and panoramas
Aleksotas Hill: For one of the best views in Kaunas, take the funicular to the top of Aleksotas Hill. The panorama includes the beautiful confluence of the Neris and Nemunas rivers and the charming Old Town.
Christ’s Resurrection Church: The observation deck of this strikingly modern church offers stunning 360-degree views of Kaunas. Accessed by another funicular, this is the perfect spot for a scenic overlook of the city’s layout and architecture.
The best districts
Old Town: Centred on Town Hall Square, Kaunas's historical and picturesque heart features cobblestone streets, picturesque squares and landmark buildings. Don’t miss the Town Hall, Perkūnas House and the gorgeous St. Francis Xavier Church.
New Town: This bustling area around the pedestrian street of Laisvės Alėja is home to shops, cafés, restaurants and several of the city's top museums and galleries. It’s ideal for a leisurely stroll and experiencing the local vibe.
Žaliakalnis: North of the New Town, this district is known for its interwar architecture and green spaces, with highlights like Christ’s Resurrection Church and the M.K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art.
Historical monuments
Kaunas Castle: A medieval fortress dating back to the 14th century, offering historical exhibitions and lovely views of the surrounding area.
St Michael the Archangel Church: This imposing neo-Byzantine structure stands at the end of Laisvės Alėja and is a significant architectural landmark.
Ninth Fort: A historic fort and museum complex that commemorates the victims of the Nazi and Soviet regimes. It offers a poignant insight into Lithuania’s turbulent history.
Day trips in the area
Trakai: Just an hour’s drive from Kaunas and surrounded by lakes, Trakai is famed for its picturesque island castle. It’s an excellent spot for a day trip, with opportunities for boating, hiking and exploring the historical sites.
Druskininkai: A renowned spa town offering wellness treatments, a water park, the Grūtas Park with its collection of Soviet-era sculptures and the Čiurlionis Museum.
Pazaislis Monastery: Located just southeast of the centre, this Baroque-style monastery is set in beautiful surroundings by the Kaunas Reservoir and is perfect for a relaxing day out.
Activities for families in Kaunas
Kaunas offers plenty of fun activities for the whole family. Here are some great options to consider:
Parks and gardens: Families will enjoy a visit to Oak Grove Park, one of the largest urban oak groves in Europe. Here, kids can play in the open spaces while parents relax. Nemunas Island Park, in the middle of the river, is also a great choice, with playgrounds and walking paths.
Museums: The Aviation Museum and the Vytautas Great War Museum offer exhibits from Lithuania's military history that will fascinate children and adults alike. The Devil Museum, with its quirky collection of devil-themed art, is another family favourite.
Art galleries: The Čiurlionis National Museum of Art has excellent displays of paintings by Lithuania’s Mikalojus Čiurlionis, a pioneer of abstract art and also the composer of Lithuania’s first symphony.
Free things to do in Kaunas
Exploring Kaunas doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some free activities to enjoy in the city:
Free events: Kaunas hosts a variety of free cultural events throughout the year, including open-air concerts and festivals and some free entertainment around the time of the Kaunas Jazz Festival and the International Hanseatic Days festival.
Free museums: Several museums in Kaunas offer free admission on certain days of the year, such as Kaunas Town Hall.
Wellness in Kaunas
Spas and thermal baths: Close to Kaunas, the famous spa town of Druskininkai offers relaxing thermal baths. The baths are known for their mineral-rich waters, which provide a unique and rejuvenating experience.
Traditional body care: Embrace traditional Lithuanian body care at the Vytautas Mineral SPA, south of Kaunas. Treatments use the area's special mineral water and local natural ingredients, such as clay wraps and black spruce oils.
Nature and outdoor activities
Hiking in national parks: Explore the trails in Kauno Marios Regional Park, just outside the city. The park features stunning landscapes, including the impressive Kaunas Lagoon, and offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Cycling: Kaunas is a bike-friendly city with several dedicated cycling paths. Rent a bike and explore the city’s green spaces, or take a longer ride along the Nemunas River.
Kayaking and boating: The Nemunas River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and boating. You can rent a kayak and paddle through the city or on Kaunas Reservoir, enjoying a unique perspective of the city's landmarks and natural beauty.
Bird-watching: Popular spots for bird-watching are Oak Grove Park and Nemunas Island Park in the city, as well as Kaunas Reservoir in Kauno Marios Regional Park. These areas are home to a variety of bird species, making them perfect for nature enthusiasts who enjoy observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
Winter sports: During the winter months, Lithuania transforms into a winter wonderland. Cross-country skiing is popular in the parks around Kaunas, offering a great way to enjoy the winter landscape, and there are several small ski parks around the country for some fun on the slopes.