Kaunas tours

Travel around Kaunas – visit this vibrant city full of surprises! Shall we begin? Some people say, that Kaunas old town is like an incredible collection of the best Kaunas highlights. Kaunas tourism guides will emphasize that from the 20s to 30s Kaunas was Lithuania’s capital. History has to be told, so you will hear stories from medieval grand dukes to 20th century freedom fighters. Enough about the past! Let’s find out more about the present sights that are offered by Kaunas tourism! No doubt that Kaunas attractions are truly worth to experience: take a boat tour in river Nemunas, visit unusual Devil’s museum, try Lithuanian beer in Freedom avenue, travel to breathtaking Pazaislis Convent. Seems like things to do in Kaunas – a special list for your heart. Right, you can’t miss the eye-popping, extraordinary Ministry of Fluxus. This is a grand art project placed in shoe factory in Kaunas old town and is absolutely worth your visit. Almost forgot… A nice chat with locals – a must. They are always helpful and creative, so your things to do in Kaunas list will get doubled! So, what is left… Kaunas tourism is sending greetings and waiting for your travel to begin! Are you booking a tour, traveller?

Population : 312,120 (2018)

Area :  157 km2

Density : 1,935/km2

Postal code : 44xxx – 52xxx

Area code : (+370) 37

Rank in the country : 2nd in Lithuania

The Old Town is no doubt one of the most beautiful places in the city that still has much of its original buildings from way back still proudly standing. Back in the day, the Old Town of Kaunas was used as a trade center so many buildings reflect some German architectural influence. Also, compared to the Vilnius’ Old Town, Kaunas suffered less damage and you can feel the authenticity in its breathtaking medieval architecture and cobbled pavement. The most beautiful part of the Old Town is Vilnius street so make sure not to walk past it while gazing at other magnificent buildings and sites.

Pažaislis Monastery is definitely one of the highlights and top attractions in Kaunas. The Pažaislis Abbey Ensemble is one of the most beautiful and captivating ensembles built in Baroque style in Lithuania dating back to the 17th century. Even though located about 7km from the city center, it is highly recommended to take this little detour because here you will get a chance to wander around looking at the numerous amazing frescos, walk through beautiful gardens and even have a dinner in the on-site restaurant that has been very highly rated by previous visitors.  

Ninth Fort is one of the most historically marked places to visit not only in Kaunas but in all Lithuania. It is a remarkable memorial to the thousands of people, mostly Jews that were murdered by the Nazis. It is a place trying to do justice to the tragic times in our history and exhibiting people’s dying records, weapons and accoutrements of WWI, in here there is even a possibility to participate in the reconstruction of repression episodes performed by NKVD. Needless to say, this museum is not for the faint-hearted, but for those strong enough it is definitely one of the most highly recommended places to visit in Kaunas.

Freedom Avenue is located in the New Town but is the most famous street of Kaunas hands down! It is both a refreshing green area in the middle of the city and a busy shopping center at the same time. The avenue is a tree-lined pedestrians only street full of some of the best cafes and restaurants in town and many international shops as well as locals boutiques selling Lithuanian goods! In the avenue, there is also a beautiful, huge St. Michael the Archangel Church functioning as a Russian Orthodox church.

Museum of Devils is definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Kaunas because it holds a collection of over 3,000 depictions of the devil from the whole world! Various unique paintings, sculptures, carvings, masks and even soft toys depicting the devil are exhibited, all of them has a description of their age and origins also. You wouldn’t want to miss visiting the only devil’s museum in the world, would you?

Forto Dvaras is definitely a top place to try and eat traditional Lithuanian food such as the famous cepelinai, kugelis and of course pink soup! It is located in The Town Hall of Lithuania (Rotušės aikštė) so it will surely be on your way while wandering the Old Town. The prices are also friendly for those traveling on a budget.

Spurgine is located in the Freedom Avenue and serves its customers with one of the most nostalgic national foods – fried Lithuanian doughnuts (lit. spurga). You can choose from different toppings and fillings, varying from meat and vegetables to delicious sweets. It is a great place to eat if you are looking for a tasty dessert and want to get acquainted with Lithuanian cuisine a bit better.

Jurgis ir Drakonas is one of the most favourite restaurants in Lithuania that is co-run by the famous Lithuanian chef Beata Nicholson. Alongside with excellent salads and pizzas, the restaurant also serves Beata’s created special dishes such as salad with mango, feta cheese and prosciutto, and much more.

Talutti must be one of the restaurants in Kaunas that locals as well as visitors simply adore. They serve more or less standard European cuisine with exceptional breakfast waffles, pizzas, burgers, milkshakes and whatnot! The restaurant is also kid-friendly so it is a great pick for visitors of all ages.

Agave is a great place to eat if you want to treat yourself with something more special and fancy. The restaurant specializes mostly in Mexican cuisine and is situated in the very center of Kaunas. So whether you’re looking for some specially made seafood or just some exquisite tacos and tequila – this is definitely a place for you!

Visit M.K.Čiurlionis National Art Museum because it is one of the oldest and largest art museums in Lithuania. It is one of the best places to visit in order to learn about Lithuanian and international art history and culture from the old times up until nowadays. Located in the city center, the museum also has a separate room dedicated to the artist’s music where you can listen to the compositions of your choice and simply enjoy his art.

Explore Kaunas Castle which was once used as a defensive bastion and is the only double-walled castle in Lithuania. Located in Santakos Park, it is a great place to visit because the castle in available to the public to enter, so you will get a chance to see the remaining portion of the castle as well as see the exhibition of castle ruins.   

Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul as it is situated in the Old Town and considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in Kaunas. It was built using only red bricks with features of both Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, and houses an icon from the 17th century that is believed to have performed miracles once. Oh, and don’t forget to look up at the organ because it is simply stunning!

Take a tour in the Museum of History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy because it is located in the very heart of the city, in the Old Town, and offers many fascinating exhibits to look at. It displays medical equipment of old Lithuanian hospitals and pharmacies, personal belongings of doctors and pharmacists as well as some biological anomalies. To visit the museum is a must do for any medicine and biology lovers!   

Go up the Aleksotas Hill if you are a fan of seeing cities from above. If so, you will definitely enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Kaunas, it is especially a great thing to do during twilight because the city’s picturesque red roofs and the glimmering river down at your feet will make the experience somewhat magical!

• You should be aware that to reach the Old Town from Laisves pr. and the new part of the city, visitors will need to use an underground passage, which is quite difficult to access with strollers.
• It is highly recommended to leave tips in bars and restaurants, but the amount is up to you.
• Public drinking is a strict no-no in Lithuania, so make sure not to get in trouble and not to take a fine back home with you. Other than that, have a good trip and enjoy your time here!