Things To Do
in Kretinga

Kretinga is a charming town located in northern Lithuania, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The town features a blend of cultural influences, which is reflected in its local cuisine and traditions. It is surrounded by lush forests and is close to the Baltic Sea, offering visitors a picturesque landscape.

Kretinga is also home to several historical sites, including the Kretinga Manor and the Franciscan Monastery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kretinga's Heritage
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Kretinga Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll through the park surrounding Kretinga Manor.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then explore the Franciscan Monastery and its beautiful gardens. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Botanical Garden.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Lithuanian restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the town center to experience the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with breakfast at a local bakery, then head to the nearby beaches for some fresh air and relaxation.

afternoon
:

After beach time, explore the local markets for fresh produce and unique crafts. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the parks.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by visiting a local bar or café to enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚍Public transport ticket$1
🍺Local beer$3
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Language barrier for some visitors
  • "Labas" - Hello
  • "Ačiū" - Thank you
  • "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Prašome" - Please

Places to Visit in Kretinga

Visit one of these nice places.

Kretinga Manor

Capture the stunning architecture and manicured gardens of this historical manor.

Franciscan Monastery

A peaceful site with beautiful architecture, perfect for serene photographs.

Kretinga Park

A picturesque park with walking paths, ideal for nature photography, especially during spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kretinga

Kretinga offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Lithuanian flavors and local ingredients.

Kretinga Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cepelinai

These are potato dumplings stuffed with meat, often served with sour cream and bacon bits.

Must-Try!

Šaltibarščiai

A cold beet soup that is refreshing and vibrant, typically served with boiled potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kretinga Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, artisan bread, and homemade preserves.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kretinga experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild weather and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting, and it's polite to make eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and avoid discussing business at the dinner table.

Dress Code

Dress neatly, especially when dining out or visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kretinga is generally a safe town for visitors. However, it's always advisable to take common precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secured. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Kretinga

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm, perfect for beach outings and outdoor festivals, with many locals and tourists enjoying the sun.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and a cooler climate, ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Winter offers a magical atmosphere with snow covering the town, perfect for winter sports and holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Kretinga at Night

Kretinga has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few cozy bars and local pubs. While it may not be as lively as larger cities, you can find places offering live music, local brews, and a friendly atmosphere. The nearby city of Palanga offers more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs and beach parties.

Hiking in Kretinga

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Žemaitija National Park

A beautiful park with various trails that range in difficulty, offering stunning views of lakes and forests.

Karklė Hiking Trail

This coastal trail provides breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and is perfect for both hiking and biking.

Airports

How to reach Kretinga by plane.

Palanga Airport

Located about 20 km from Kretinga, Palanga Airport serves international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kretinga is a compact town that is quite walkable. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The town features paved sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, enhancing the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Lithuanian Nationals

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Lithuanians who are proud of their culture and traditions.

Tourists

In the summer months, Kretinga attracts tourists, particularly from neighboring countries, who come to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a national sport in Lithuania, and local teams often engage in friendly matches and community events.

Football (Soccer)

Football is also popular, with local clubs and youth leagues actively participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kretinga is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns. However, for more convenience, renting a bike or walking is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kretinga.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so be sure to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kretinga is accessible with a local hospital and several clinics. Emergency services are efficient, and most healthcare professionals speak basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare services.

Discover Lithuania

Read more in our Lithuania 2025 Travel Guide.

Lithuania Travel Guide