Things To Do
in Biržai
Biržai is a historic town in northern Lithuania, nestled among forests and lakes and anchored by a striking castle complex. It blends a well-preserved medieval old town with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that invites wandering cobblestone streets. The town is a gateway to scenic countryside ideal for walking, cycling and day trips to nearby natural parks.
In Biržai, visitors encounter Lithuanian hospitality, cultural heritage, and a slower pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Biržai Castle, where history and architecture converge. Enjoy a guided tour that reveals the stories behind this impressive 17th-century landmark, surrounded by scenic parklands. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the castle's reflections on the lake in the early light.
After lunch, take a peaceful stroll around the castle grounds and explore the nearby spa area. Relax by the waterfront or indulge in local cuisine at a nearby café, experiencing the flavors of Lithuanian dishes. Visit the Museum of Biržai to learn more about the region's rich heritage and culture.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor traditional cuisine like cepelinai (potato dumplings). Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and perhaps try some local craft beer or mead. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the lake, taking in the serene twilight.
Kick off your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Biržai Regional Park, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Early hours are perfect for birdwatching, so keep your binoculars handy as you search for local species. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you wander through lush green trails.
After a hearty lunch at a local bistro, venture to the park’s observation tower for panoramic views of the landscape. Engage in additional birdwatching or simply relax with a book against the backdrop of nature's beauty. For the adventurous, consider renting bicycles to explore the park's extensive paths.
Return to Biržai and unwind at a cozy tavern, sampling some dishes made from local ingredients. Engage in conversation with friendly locals who can share their stories and experiences. End your evening with a relaxing walk through the town square under the soft glow of street lamps.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🚍One-way local transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Historic castle and charming old town
- Good value for money and easy to explore
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of amenities and stores
- "Laba diena" - Hello / Good day
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ar galite kalbėti angliškai?" - Do you speak English?
- "Prašau" - Please
- "Atsiprašau" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Kur yra artimiausia kavinė?" - Where is the nearest cafe?
Places to Visit in Biržai
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic castle ruins with a surrounding moat and landscaped grounds, great for atmospheric shots at different times of day.
Colorful facades and cobblestone streets provide classic European photography opportunities.
Tranquil waterfront is perfect for reflections, wildlife and long exposure shots.
Historic churches and brickwork offer variety for architectural photography.
Food in Biržai
Biržai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings stuffed with meat, served with sour cream and bacon sauce.
Must-Try!
Potato pudding baked with eggs and onions.
Cold beet soup with cucumbers and dill, usually served with boiled potatoes.
Smoked coarse sausage made with pork and spices.
Fried rye bread pieces, commonly enjoyed as a crunchy side or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional weekly market offering potatoes, berries, rye bread, cheeses, and other local goods.
Pancakes, fried bread and light bites available near the town center during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people with polite forms or use first names after a brief introduction.
Safety
Tipping in Biržai
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up at cafés or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated but not always expected.
Cash in EUR and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming trees; shoulder-season crowds, light jacket advised.
Warm days and long daylight; outdoor dining and lakeside activities; occasional summer storms.
Crips air and fall colors in parks; harvest markets and cozy cafés welcome visitors.
Cold and potential snow; layer up and enjoy indoor cultural spots and winter markets.
Biržai at Night
Hiking in Biržai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and lake trails on the outskirts of Biržai suitable for nature walks and moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Biržai by plane.
Major hub with international connections; about a couple of hours' drive from Biržai.
Closest major airport with frequent domestic and international flights.
In Latvia; a few hours away by road and rail with good connections to Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in the region with minority communities present.
A smaller Russian-speaking community is present in some areas.
Small Polish community contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is highly popular in Lithuania and widely played in schools and clubs.
Popular at local clubs and on informal pitches around towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Biržai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find soups, dumplings and salads; ask for cheese or mushroom fillings and request meat-free sauces.