Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania with a Weekend Trip DIY Itinerary
Your Lithuanian trip will not be complete if you will not visit Kaunas, the second-largest city in the said country. It is famous for its history, cozy parks, and wonderful old town. It is the historical center of Lithuanian economic, academic, and cultural life. Spending your days in Kaunas would be so memorable and fun as you would learn more about their culture, history, and lifestyle.
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10 things that you should do and visit in Kaunas, Lithuania
This museum was founded in 1966, and the exposition was open for visitors in 1974. It is one of the largest open-air ethnographic museums in Europe. It has about 90820 exhibits. The artifacts that can be found in this museum date from the 18th to the 20th century. This museum features the way of life, work, and traditions of the peasants and townspeople of all Lithuanian ethnographic areas.
2. Ninth Fort
This is a must-visit in Lithuania. Not only because of its impressive monument, but the Ninth Fort also holds a very rich history. It used to be a Jewish center for many centuries. By visiting this museum, you would learn more about their history, the Holocaust, and how it impacted Lithuania.
3. Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul
This cathedral deserves a quick visit. Especially, if you’re just walking around the old town. With its impressive interior and Baroque-style exterior, you would be captivated.
4. Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Compared to other churches, this church is a bit smaller. It was built between 1891 and 1895 when the city was still part of the Russian Empire. Some people say that it still needs a little bit of restoration, especially the exterior. However, this church is still worth a visit due to its magnificent interior style.
It is a memorial museum dedicated to Chiune Sugihara, a Japanese consul who helped and saved more than 6000 Jewish refugees. He was working in Kaunas between 1939-1940. He helped the refugees by issuing them visas so that they could escape and go to Japan. Inside this museum, you’ll see photographs and papers about him. You will also learn a lot about what he did. Very interesting place, especially for those who are interested in history.
6. Juniper Valley- Kadagiu Solenis
If you’re craving a day of relaxation, then you shouldn’t miss Juniper Valley. Walking through the path would let you see a beautiful view of nature. It’s perfect for a visit with friends or family.
7. Laisves Aleja (Liberty Boulevard)
Laisves Aleja is a wide boulevard full of restaurants and boutiques. In this area, you can walk and have a meal or just buy anything as a souvenir. It is under construction now and is expected to be finished at the end of 2019.
Of course, when you’re in Europe, it is a must to visit every city’s old town. Kaunas’ Old Town is not an exemption. There are a lot of tourist spots around the area. You will also find, cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops that won’t let you be bored. A nice place to visit especially during summer.
It is the smallest church in Kaunas. However, despite its small size, it has magnificent architecture. It is located in Kaunas and is one of the oldest Brick Gothic Churches. You can’t find it on the main street, it is a hidden gem that’s waiting for your visit.
It is the largest monastery complex in Lithuania. It is also the best example of Italian Baroque architecture in the country. It has a lovely setting in which you can go on a walk, a picnic, or even biking. With its lake that surrounds the church, it gives a relaxing and calming feeling while spending your time here.
Sample Weekend Itinerary to Kaunas, Lithuania
Day 1
Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum– On your first day, it is recommended to visit Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum as it will teach you more about the Lithuanian lifestyle from the 18th to 20th centuries. You would see a lot of interesting artifacts here. You shouldn’t miss this one out!
Day 2:
Ninth Fort– Your second day should be a historical tour. Kaunas offers a lot of attractions that will bring us to the past. One of these is the Ninth Fort. Aside from its magnificent monument, it is also one of the Jewish centers in the past. If you’re interested in learning more about the Holocaust and what happened in Lithuania during those times, pay a visit to this awesome museum.
Sugihara House– As I said, day 2 is a day of learning and exploring. In Sugihara House, you will see photos and pieces of information about Chiune Sugihara, a Japanese diplomat who helped thousands of Jewish escape during the Holocaust. This museum is dedicated to his heroism.
Pazaislis Monastery– A large monastery surrounded by a lake. A nice place to end your day. You can have a picnic here with your friends or family, or just walk around the area and admire the beauty of the Italian Baroque-style church.
Day 3
Old Town (Kaunas)– In every city that you visit in Europe, you shouldn’t miss their old town. The Old Town in Kaunas offers a lot of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. It is more modern compared to other old towns in other European cities, however, Kaunas Old Town would still give you a glimpse of the Lithuanian lifestyle in the modern day.
St. Gertrude’s Church (Kaunas)– While strolling through the Old Town, don’t forget to visit St. Gertrude’s Church. The smallest church in Kaunas. It has stunning architecture with Brick Gothic Style. It’s very picturesque, so spare some time to visit this small but terrible church.
Find accommodation in Kaunas, Lithuania
Where to Stay in Kaunas, Lithuania
(Prices are subject to change depending on the dates that you preferred. These prices are available on Oct.18-19, 2019. Visit the official website to check more accommodation and prices)
Where to Stay in Kaunas, Lithuania if you’re a Backpacker
The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas is located on the city promenade, close to the Old Town, 2 km away from Kaunas Castle. It offers dormitory rooms with free Wi-Fi. All rooms come with bunk beds and are furnished, with a mirror, chairs, and a locker for each guest. There are shared bathrooms with a hairdryer and towels available, as well as a spacious common room with a large TV, a library, and board games. There is also a fully equipped common kitchen with an oven and a fridge. Guests are offered special discounts at pubs and restaurants nearby.
Price: Starts at $12 per night for a Bed in an 8-Bed Dormitory Room, plus $1 for taxes and charges. It’s non-refundable.
Located in a protected building of Kaunas’ historical center, R Hostel is only 1.2 km away from the local train station. There is a lounge room with table soccer. Vending machines are located in the corridor. Free WiFi is featured. Only 250 m from Hostel R is Laisvės Alėja, Kaunas’ main car-free avenue. Guests can also find plenty of bars and pizzerias in the vicinity.
Price: Starts at $12 per night for a Bed in a 12-Bed Dormitory Room, plus $1 for taxes and charges. It’s non-refundable.
The Chocolate hostel is set in Kaunas Old Town, within a 4-minute walk to Kaunas Castle and Town Hall. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. All rooms have a shared bathroom. You will find dry cleaning services at the property. There is a chocolate factory in the building and guests can attend excursions there. The hostel also offers bike hire. The nearest airport is Kaunas Airport, 14 km from the Chocolate hostel.
Price: Starts at $15 per night for a Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room, plus $1 for taxes and charges. Add $7 for breakfast (optional), and it’s free cancellation.
Where to Stay in Kaunas, Lithuania if you’re on a Budget
Located in Kaunas, near Kaunas Christ’s Resurrection Church, Kaunas Choral Synagogue and St. Michael the Archangel’s Church in Kaunas, Oak house apartments feature free WiFi. Each unit is equipped with a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. A stovetop and kettle are also provided. The nearest airport is Kaunas Airport, 13 km from Oak house apartments.
Price: Starts at $30 per night for a Studio Apartment, plus $1 for taxes and charges. It’s non-refundable.
Hotel Metropolis is located in the city center of Kaunas, just off the Laisvės Alėja, a popular pedestrian street. The hotel is located in a historic building from the 19th century and offers rooms with free Wi-Fi. All of the rooms at the Metropolis are individually designed. All have a private bathroom with either a bath or a shower. Some rooms feature large-format photographs of Kaunas. The hotel staff is available 24 hours a day and offers a safety deposit box service. The Metropolis Restaurant outdoor seating.
Price: Starts at $36 per night for a Single Room, plus $1 for taxes and charges. Offers free breakfast, but it’s non-refundable.
Nemuno Apartment features free WiFi and a washing machine. The property has city views and is 2.5 km from Kaunas Zalgiris Arena and less than 1 km from Kaunas Choral Synagogue. This air-conditioned apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, a cable flat-screen TV, a dining area, and a kitchenette with a microwave and a fridge. The nearest airport is Kaunas, 18 km from Nemuno Apartment, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Price: Starts at $36 per night for an Apartment, plus $1 for taxes and charges. It’s free cancellation.
Where to Stay in Kaunas, Lithuania if you want Luxury
BEST WESTERN Santakos Hotel is located in Kaunas, less than 100 m from the Old Town. It offers air-conditioned rooms with cable TV and free WiFi. Free private parking is available. Guests enjoy free sauna and swimming pool access in the mornings. The spacious rooms of the Santakos feature classic interior design, bright pastel-colored walls, and wooden furniture. All have a refrigerator. Most have seating areas. The hotel’s restaurant serves international and Lithuanian dishes. Breakfast is also available.
Price: Starts at $61 per night for Twin Room, the taxes and charges may vary. Breakfast is included, and it’s non-refundable.
Located in the center of Kaunas, Europa Royale is located 500 m from the Žalgiris Arena, 400 m from Laisvės alėja, and just 100 m from Akropolis Shopping and Entertainment Centre. It offers air-conditioned rooms with a minibar. It offers free Wi-Fi in public areas and free private parking. The rooms of the Europa Royale Kaunas feature an elegant interior design. Some feature reproductions of known artworks. All have a private bathroom with either a shower or a bathtub and a hairdryer. Guests of the Royale Kaunas have access to the hotel’s spa center at an extra charge, which boasts a sauna, hot tub, and steam bath. The hotel’s restaurant serves European dishes. In the morning a breakfast buffet is available here.
Price: Starts at $63.30 per night for Twin Room, including taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it’s non-refundable.
Located in the center of Kaunas, this 4-star Superior hotel is located directly on Laisvės Alėja. It features an indoor pool and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and mineral water. Free private parking is available. The rooms of the Hotel Kaunas are spacious and feature a classic interior design. All have a work desk, satellite TV, minibar, and refrigerator. Some rooms have a balcony. The large fitness center at the Kaunas features Technogym equipment. A sauna is available for guests to relax in. There is also a safe box, fax, and a conference room. Lithuanian and international cuisine is served at restaurant 55. A coffee bar and 24-hour room service are also available.
Price: Starts at $65.40 per night for Double Single Use Standard, including taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it’s non-refundable.
List of restaurants that you can try while in Kaunas, Lithuania
Serves European and Italian food like pizza. Get the chance to eat pizza with authentic Italian ingredients.
Operating hours:
- 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Sun – Mon)
- 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Tue – Sat)
Address: Kurpiu g. 26, Kaunas 44287, Lithuania
Piccola Italia – Trattoria and Pizzeria
Offers Mediterranean, European and Italian cuisine. This restaurant is vegan-friendly so everyone could enjoy eating their favorite delicious pizza.
Operating hours:
- 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Sun)
- 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Mon – Fri)
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sat)
Address: Maironio g. 22, Kaunas 44298, Lithuania
They serve mainly Italian food like pasta and pizza. The location of this restaurant is also great.
Operating hours:
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sun – Thu)
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Fri – Sat)
Address: Laisves al. 27, Kaunas 44311, Lithuania
It’s a steakhouse that serves European cuisine. If you’re a meat lover, you should visit and eat here. Their wines are also delicious.
Operating hours:
- 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Sun)
- 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Tue – Thu)
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Fri – Sat)
Address: Karaliaus Mindaugo avenue 18a, Kaunas 44295, Lithuania
Offers barbecue, steak, and European cuisine. The prices are all reasonable. People love their food and their service.
Operating hours:
- 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Sun)
- 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Mon – Sat)
Address: Gedimino g. 42, Kaunas 44240, Lithuania
How to go to Kaunas, Lithuania from the UK
Via Ryanair: (one way)
*From London Stansted to Kaunas Airport
Oct. 11 (Friday) 18:15-22:50
Ticket Price: £28.29
* Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.
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About the Writer
Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 to the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other countries’ cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.