Things To Do
in Panevėžys
Panevėžys is Lithuania's fifth-largest city, located in the central-north of the country along the Nevėžis River. It blends industrial heritage with parks, cultural spaces, and a growing arts scene. The city serves as a convenient rail and road hub with easy access to Vilnius, Kaunas, and other parts of Lithuania.
Visitors can explore a compact historic center, riverside strolls, and approachable Lithuanian cuisine here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the serene city parks of Panevėžys, where you can admire the vibrant flowerbeds and lush greenery. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Lithuanian pastries alongside a rich cup of coffee. Don't forget to visit the historical Panevėžys Church, marveling at its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.
After lunch, venture to the Panevėžys Civic Art Gallery, which showcases impressive local artwork and contemporary exhibitions. Take some time to explore the city's unique shops and boutiques, offering handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Maironis Park, the perfect spot for some relaxing moments by the lake.
As the day draws to a close, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants, savoring authentic Lithuanian cuisine. Afterward, immerse yourself in local culture by attending a performance at the Panevėžys Theatre, known for its vibrant artistic scene. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Nevėžis River, letting the tranquil sounds of nature soothe you.
Start your day with a visit to the Panevėžys Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through exhibits and artifacts. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner, sampling traditional rye bread topped with various Lithuanian spreads. Take a moment to appreciate the daily life of the locals as you sip on coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, attend a workshop on traditional crafts, where you can create your own keepsake and interact with skilled artisans. Afterward, explore the local market, filled with fresh produce and handmade goods, allowing you to sample local flavors and purchase unique items. Wind down with a visit to the local botanical garden, where you can admire the diverse plant life.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delicious regional dishes. After your meal, consider catching some live music at a local bar that features up-and-coming artists. End your day with a relaxing walk through the quiet streets of Panevėžys, enjoying the starry sky above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛏1 night in a mid-range hotel | $50-90 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (1 ride) | $1-2 |
| 🍞Loaf of bread | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to attractions
- Good value for money and friendly locals
- Strong parks and riverfront areas for outdoor time
- Limited direct international flight options compared to bigger cities
- Smaller nightlife scene than Lithuania's top destinations
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Kur yra..." - Where is...
- "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much is this?
- "Atsiprašau" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Ar priimate kreditines korteles?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Kalbate anglų?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Panevėžys
Visit one of these nice places.
A central hub with striking street life, fountains, and architectural backdrops for daytime and evening photography.
Classic facades and well-composed angles—ideal for urban architecture and candid street scenes.
Tranquil water views, greenery, and pedestrian bridges offering reflective shots at golden hour.
Food in Panevėžys
Panevėžys Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings stuffed with meat, typically served with sour cream and bacon bits; a staple of Lithuanian home cooking.
Must-Try!
Cold beet soup usually accompanied by hot potatoes; delicious in summer and widely available in local eateries.
Baked potato pudding often served with rye bread and a dollop of sour cream; a comforting traditional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties; great for tasting local ingredients.
Casual vendors and snacks during sunny days or events, ideal for a quick bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common when meeting someone; maintain polite eye contact and a courteous tone.
Avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces; show respect in churches and museums.
Casual to smart-casual attire is typical for most venues; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Panevėžys
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lithuania a tip of 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included; you can round up or leave a small tip for good service.
Cash and cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; ATMs are common in city centers; mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming trees, and fresh markets return; layer your clothing for variable temperatures.
Long daylight hours, outdoor events, and riverfront activities; stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun.
Crimson foliage and cooler air; great for city walks and photography with softer light.
Cold and sometimes snowy; indoor cultural venues become focal points, and winter landscapes can be serene.
Panevėžys at Night
Hiking in Panevėžys
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside path suitable for a relaxed hike and birdwatching; good for all ages.
Forest trails and lakes within a day trip distance, offering shaded walks and scenic viewpoints.
Gentle woodland loop with varied scenery and opportunities for wildlife sighting.
Airports
How to reach Panevėžys by plane.
Primary international gateway for Lithuania; about a few hours by road and rail from Panevėžys.
Regional airport with several European connections; accessible by road or rail from Panevėžys.
Major hub in the region; provides many international options and is reachable for longer trips from Panevėžys.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with growing exposure to international influences in education and business.
Smaller communities contributing to multilingual experiences in markets, schools, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite across Lithuania, with local teams and youth programs contributing to a strong basketball culture.
Active local clubs and seasonal matches; a common weekend pastime for residents.
Popular in winter with indoor rinks and community leagues available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panevėžys.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian versions of Lithuanian dishes; look for mushroom or cheese-filled options, and ask for vegetable sides.
Choose dishes built around potatoes, vegetables, and meat; inform staff about gluten sensitivities for cross-contamination awareness.