Trakai tours

They call it a collection of legends, motherland of grand dukes, bridge to Lithuania and even symbol of Lithuanian tourism… Sounds like a mystery, right?
It is a good reason to start your travel, visit Trakai and decide, which of these descriptions truly match Trakai tourism character. This tiny town is situated in eye-popping lakeside area, which is perfect for boat tours and hot air balloon flights. Take the tempting Trakai tour and you won’t regret traveling. Visit Trakai, feel historical atmosphere, admire authentic heritage of Karaites, try their national dish – Kibinai. We are telling you, Trakai tours – something you can’t miss… Gothic style architectural monuments and the grand top – famous Trakai Island Castle dating back to the 14th century will impress and touch every travelers soul. Trakai tourism will do everything for you. Take a bath in refreshing Galve lake, every Sunday in July and August enjoy music in “Evenings in Užutrakis” festival, be entertained by theatre performances. Trakai tourism is looking forwards to see you here… Will you take a tour and visit Trakai? Traveling is the best you can do!

Population: 4430 (2017)

Area:  11,5 km2

Density: 385/km2

Postal code: LT-21001

Area code: +370 (528)

Rank in the country: 58th in Lithuania

Trakai Castle deserves a place of the top 5 most visited places not only in Trakai but in all Lithuania. The castle is situated in an island on Lake Galve and dates back to the 14th century when the Grand Duke Vytautas needed some stronger protection. This outstandingly restored red-brick Gothic castle also houses Trakai History Museum. Inside, there are numerous rooms, halls and galleries displaying various exhibits about the life of the castle and of Trakai back in the old days. There is also a huge courtyard inside, where numerous concerts and performances are held during the summer. Whatever the season, Trakai Castle is no doubt one of the most special and unique places in Lithuania.

Karaite Ethnographic Museum is among the most popular places to visit in Trakai because it tells the story of the Karaite people that were once brought to Trakai to serve as bodyguards. Karaites are a Turkic minority and a Judaic sect that comes from Baghdad and live by the Law of Moses. Inside the museum, visitors will find numerous exhibits dedicated to the history, culture and life of Karaites, the main highlights being black and white photographs of the Karaite people and their national dresses.

Sacred Art Exhibition is housed in a former Dominican monastery, in the territory of the Peninsula Castle. It is small but interesting museum that displays various religious and sacral objects such as religious paintings, chalices, statues and other various items related to the Catholic Church. Since it situated in three small floors, visiting the sacred art exhibition will not take up much of your time but will surely broaden your understanding and appreciation of the sacred art masterpieces.    

Uzutrakis Palace is situated a little outside Trakai but going down there is well worth everyone’s time. The Uzutrakis Manor Estate was established back in the 19th century by Count Tyszkiewicz and his wife and has currently been restored to its previous charms and glory. From the mansion terrace, a beautiful view of a pond and a park opens up which makes this one of the most favourite places to take wedding and other celebration photos at. So if you want to have some outstanding photographs in your album – don’t hesitate to come and explore this beautiful place!

Spa Esperanza is among the best SPA resorts in Lithuania so if you are looking for a relaxing night or just some quality procedures – look no further, this is a perfect place for that. Here you will also be surrounded by nature full of amazing ponds and trees, but most importantly, you will get a chance to choose from various SPA, beauty of treatment sessions. In this SPA you will also find various saunas, pools and a highly rated restaurant.

Senoji Kibinine is a number one eatery that locals flock to once in Trakai and you should definitely see why for yourself. Senoji Kibinine is located in a traditional Karaite house and sells traditional Karaite pasties that are most often stuffed with bowl and served with a bowl of chicken broth. This place does get rather busy during lunch time, but you can just grab a couple of kibinai for takeout and go enjoy them wherever you find convenient.

Bona Pizzeria is one of the most famous places to eat at because of its perfect location. Bona Pizzeria is situated on the coast of the Galve lake and directly faces the Trakai Castle. Talk about a dinner with a view, huh? Besides this, the pizzeria is a great pick for its cozy interior, friendly staff and delicious food involving standard pizzas, salads, pastas and some national Lithuanian dishes.

Kybynlar is yet another incredible place serving Karaite cuisine. However, here you can try not only kibinai, but also other national dishes such as beef stew and fish pie. Visitors can also choose between dining inside or on a terrace with a beautiful view. A perfect place to eat if you want to try something new.

AJ Sokoladas is one of the best places if you wish to treat yourself with some delicious coffee and chocolate. You are not likely to find so many choices of chocolate and ice cream in any other place here in Trakai, and nowhere will it be of such pure quality and so delicious! So definitely a must-visit place for all the sweet tooths out there.

Mojo Cafe is a top place to choose whether you want some great coffee or some outstanding Asian cuisine. The chef here is a native Filipino who travelled a lot in Asia so you can trust his skills 100%. To top this off, the service here is super friendly and professional and the atmosphere very modern and welcoming. You will sure wish to come back someday!

Walk along the main street while heading towards the Trakai Castle Island and feel the spirit of this tiny but charming town. While strolling down the street, you will get a chance to stop by some cafes and restaurants to grab a bite or to wonder to some side street just to find yourself facing one of the many beautiful lakes of Trakai. Trust us, there are very few who don’t fall in love with this place at least a little bit after getting to know it better!

Explore Trakai Historical National Park as it is full of charming lakes, ponds and villages to explore. It is the smallest national park in Lithuania, bet the only one historical national park in Europe! Cool, right? It is always a good idea to rent a bike, go around cycling and spend some quality time in nature.

Sail along the Trakai Island and appreciate the beauty of nature and the Island from a different angle. Visitors can rent a boat and sail themselves or they can simply go on one of the guided tours, sit back and relax. During the warm season, many locals and visitors love to rent water bicycles and go around the lake themselves while enjoying the good weather and doing some sports all at once.

Visit the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a famous 18th century Baroque church with a special icon inside – a painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Child that dates back to the 16th century. It is called the Trakai Madonna and was believed by some to even have some magic powers. Considering that it is totally free, it is definitely worth dropping by and taking a look at it yourself!

Visit the Russian Orthodox Church and check out the peculiar mixture of icons, candles and stepladders inside. The church dates back to the middle of the 19th century and was built to honour the rebellion against the tsarist occupation. The church is situated near the main street of Trakai so visitors don’t have to miss too much time looking for it.

• Oh, it comes without saying that if you want some outstanding photos, be at the Trakai Castle or the Uzutrakis Palace around sunrise or sunset – you will sure get a bunch of likes and double taps!
• 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!