Things To Do
in Kaunas
Kaunas is Lithuania's second city, a cultural hub where medieval history meets modern art and riverside charm. Its well-preserved Old Town, striking bridges, and vibrant student scene create a lively, approachable atmosphere. The city blends Gothic and Renaissance architecture with bold contemporary galleries and a growing foodie scene.
Nestled at the confluence of the Neris and Nemunas rivers, Kaunas offers scenic viewpoints, outdoor spaces, and easy day trips to nearby historic sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, taking in the stunning architecture of the historic buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Kaunas Town Hall, known as the 'White Swan' for its unique color and design.
Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Vytautas the Great War Museum, where you can learn about Lithuania’s military history. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Lithuanian restaurant, trying dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) or šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup). Afterward, take a walk along the lush banks of the Neris River, soaking in the serene views.
As the sun sets, head over to Laisvės Alėja, Kaunas's central pedestrian street, lined with shops and cozy cafes. Enjoy dinner at one of the local bistros, where you can taste regional specialties while listening to live music. End your evening with a visit to the Kaunas State Musical Theatre for an enchanting performance.
Begin your day with a visit to the M.K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art, where you can admire the works of Lithuania's famous painter and composer. Spend time exploring the museum's extensive collection, including paintings, drawings, and music. Don’t forget to stop by the museum’s café for a refreshing drink and a light snack.
After the museum, head to the nearby Kaunas Picture Gallery, which showcases contemporary Lithuanian art. Grab a bite to eat at a trendy eatery in the area, enjoying a fusion of traditional and modern Lithuanian cuisine. Once satisfied, visit the Ninth Fort, a poignant historical site that offers deep insight into Lithuania’s tragic past during World War II.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in local craft beers and hearty Lithuanian dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully illuminated streets of the Old Town, stopping at various artisan shops. End your night with a drink at one of the local bars, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $40-60 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $1-2 per ride |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $600-900 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and architecture
- Compact, walkable city with river scenery
- Can be crowded in summer
- Slower pace outside Kaunas city center
- "Laba diena" - Hello / Good day
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much does this cost?
- "Prašau" - Please
Places to Visit in Kaunas
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square framed by Gothic and Renaissance architecture; best at sunrise or sunset for warm light.
Medieval fortress ruins along the Neris with riverbank views perfect for atmospheric shots.
Scenic riverside paths and bridges ideal for long-exposure and golden hour photography.
Elevated vantage point accessible by a funicular; sweeping city panoramas and river scenery.
Food in Kaunas
Kaunas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings filled with meat, served with sour cream and bacon; a quintessential Lithuanian dish.
Must-Try!
Baked potato pudding with onions and eggs, typically accompanied by bacon and sour cream.
Cold beet soup with sour cream, often served with boiled potatoes; perfect for summer dining.
Crispy fried rye bread slices, usually served with garlic mayo as a snack.
Pastry filled with meat or vegetables; a popular snack influenced by Crimean Tatar cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, dairy, bread, smoked fish, and quick bites; best explored in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; greet with courtesy in formal settings.
Maintain modesty in conversations; avoid loud talking in public; dress appropriately for religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kaunas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments common; currency is the Euro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, outdoor festivals, and riverside activities; expect warm weather with possible rain showers.
Cold temperatures and potential snowfall; festive lights and cozy interiors in the evenings.
Mild weather with blooming gardens; great for walking tours and city photography.
Cool air and colorful foliage; atmospheric lighting for architecture and streetscapes.
Kaunas at Night
Hiking in Kaunas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Paved and forest trails around the Kaunas Reservoir offering water views.
Forest trails along the Neris river with ancient mounds and scenic views.
Riverside paths ideal for walking or cycling.
Airports
How to reach Kaunas by plane.
10–15 minutes from the city center by car; international and domestic flights; taxis and buses available.
Approx 100 km southeast; frequent flights; rail and bus connections.
Coastal airport about 150 km from Kaunas; seasonal and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnicity; primarily Lithuanian-speaking.
A historical minority; many bilingual residents.
Kaunas is a university city with a sizable student population from Kaunas University and Vytautas Magnus University.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A deeply rooted passion in the region with Žalgiris Kaunas as a historic powerhouse.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and national team matches draw crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaunas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many venues offer vegetarian options; look for mushroom dishes, salads, and veggie plates.