Things To Do
in Panevėžys

Panevėžys is a vibrant city located in northern Lithuania, known for its historical significance and cultural attractions. The city is home to a charming old town with traditional architecture and picturesque streets. Panevėžys is also famous for its strong arts scene, with various theaters, museums, and galleries to explore.

The city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities for visitors to enjoy.

  • "Labas rytas" - Good morning
  • "Ačiū" - Thank you
  • "Prašome" - Please
  • "Sutinku" - I agree
  • "Iki pasimatymo" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.60 - $1.20
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Panevys City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the city's beautiful parks and gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Panevėžys Sculpture Park to admire contemporary art installations. For lunch, try traditional Lithuanian cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront. Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro, sampling local dishes.

day 2
Historical Landmarks Tour
morning
:

Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul in the morning light. Explore its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Discover the history of Panevėžys at the City Museum. The exhibits will give you insight into the region's past and culture.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, reminiscing about the day's discoveries. Enjoy some traditional desserts while soaking in the ambiance.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with various museums and theaters.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger European cities.
  • Beautiful parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
  • Strategic location with easy access to both Vilnius and Kaunas.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited economic opportunities and job market.
  • Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation might be less frequent and less developed.
  • Harsh winters with significant snowfall.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Lithuanian speakers.

Best Activities in Panevėžys

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Ramybės Parkas

A beautiful park with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Ąžuolynas Park

A large oak tree park with walking trails, a pond, and space for recreational activities.

Birutės Park

A serene park with a lake, perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Vasaris Lake

Ideal for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

Vasariškis Park

A peaceful park for leisurely strolls and outdoor relaxation.

Tours

Uncover the best of Panevėžys with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Panevėžys

Visit one of these nice places.

Juozo Tumo-Vaižganto rūmai (Juozas Tumas-Vaižgantas House-Museum)

Offers a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings

Laisvės aikštė (Freedom Square)

A popular spot with great views and historical significance

Raudonvaris Manor

A picturesque location with stunning views and photo opportunities

Food in Panevėžys

Panevėžys, Lithuania, offers a delightful variety of traditional Lithuanian cuisine influenced by its rich history and local ingredients. The cuisine is known for its use of potatoes, mushrooms, dairy products, and rye bread. Visitors can explore a range of local dishes, markets, and dining establishments showcasing the region's culinary offerings.

Panevėžys Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cepelinai

A popular Lithuanian dish consisting of large potato dumplings filled with meat, curd, or mushrooms, served with sour cream and bacon bits.

Must-Try!

Balandėliai

Also known as 'little doves,' these are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of ground meat and rice, often accompanied by a creamy sauce.

Šaltibarščiai

A cold beet soup typically made with beets, cucumbers, sour cream, dill, and hard-boiled eggs, offering a refreshing and vibrant flavor.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Panevėžys better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Panevėžys Central Market

This bustling market is a terrific spot to sample local culinary delights. Visitors can find freshly-picked produce, local cheeses, honey, smoked meats, and a variety of street food stalls offering traditional dishes.

Laisvės Square Market

Located in the heart of Panevėžys, this market is a great place to experience street food such as kebabs, grilled sausages, and pastries made with local ingredients.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as temperate continental, characterized by four distinct seasons: cold winters, warm summers, and transitional seasons of spring and autumn. Winters typically last from December to February, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, accompanied by snowfall. January tends to be the coldest month, with average temperatures around -4°C (24°F). Snow cover can persist for several months, contributing to a crisp, snowy landscape. Summer, spanning from June to August, brings warmer temperatures, with averages around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). July is generally the warmest month. This season features longer daylight hours, and occasional thunderstorms can occur. Spring and autumn serve as transitional periods, marked by variable weather. Spring sees a gradual warming, with temperatures rising and flowers blooming, whereas autumn is characterized by cooler temperatures and the vibrant fall foliage. Precipitation is relatively well-distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in the summer months. The region receives an average annual rainfall, contributing to lush vegetation during the growing season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Panevėžys, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with their title and last name, and standing up when they enter the room.

Personal Space

Lithuanians value personal space, so it's important to maintain a comfortable distance when engaging in conversation and avoid intrusive behavior.

Greetings

Greetings are an important part of Lithuanian culture. When meeting someone, it is customary to shake hands, make eye contact, and exchange polite pleasantries.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Panevėžys with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in the city can be characterized by a relatively low crime rate, which is typical for many urban areas in Lithuania. Residents and visitors often report feeling secure while walking through the streets, even during the night. The local law enforcement is generally accessible and responsive, contributing to the sense of safety within the community. Public spaces and neighborhoods are typically well-maintained, and community initiatives often promote safety awareness and crime prevention. As with any urban area, certain precautions are advisable, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or during late hours. Overall, the city offers a safe environment for both locals and tourists alike, with a friendly atmosphere that fosters a sense of community.

Tipping in Panevėžys

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Panevėžys, Lithuania, tipping is not obligatory, but it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants, cafes, and bars. In some cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill.

Payment

Payment in Panevėžys, Lithuania is predominantly done in cash, although most businesses also accept credit and debit cards. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when dealing with smaller establishments or markets.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Panevėžys.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Panevėžys, with mild temperatures and blooming nature.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn

Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold weather with possible snow, ideal for winter sports and festive Christmas markets.

Panevėžys at Night

As the fifth-largest city in Lithuania, Panevėžys offers a diverse and evolving nightlife scene that caters to both locals and visitors. The city boasts a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can enjoy a relaxed evening or dance the night away. Many of these venues feature live music, ranging from local bands to international acts, creating a vibrant atmosphere. One of the popular spots is "Snobo zona," known for its lively ambiance and occasional themed nights. For those looking to experience traditional Lithuanian culture, some venues offer folk music nights and traditional dance performances. If you prefer a more laid-back setting, several stylish wine bars and cozy cafes stay open late, providing the perfect environment for intimate conversations over a glass of fine wine or craft beer. The city also sees a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, which often extend into the evening. The Panevėžys Drama Theatre, for instance, is a cultural hub where you can catch evening performances ranging from classical plays to modern interpretations. Whether you’re in the mood for vibrant nightclubs, live music, or cultural experiences, Panevėžys has something to offer for everyone seeking to enjoy its nightlife.

Hiking in Panevėžys

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kaitralis Nature Reserve

A beautiful nature reserve near Panevėžys, featuring a variety of hiking trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Čiobiškis Forest

Located just outside Panevėžys, this forest offers well-marked trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Skaistažemiai Nature Reserve

This protected area features scenic hiking paths through diverse ecosystems, with opportunities to observe local fauna and flora.

Panevėžys Regional Park

A regional park that includes various trails for hiking, showcasing the picturesque landscapes of the area, including rivers and hills.

Kėdainiai District Trail

A network of trails in the nearby Kėdainiai district, offering varied landscapes and a chance to explore both nature and local history.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Panevėžys through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Panevėžys by plane.

Vilnius Airport (VNO)

The largest airport in Lithuania, located about 180 km south of Panevėžys. It serves as a major hub for international flights.

Kaunas Airport (KUN)

The second largest airport in Lithuania, situated around 120 km southwest of Panevėžys. It offers both domestic and international flights.

Palanga Airport (PLQ)

Located approximately 200 km west of Panevėžys, this airport primarily serves the coastal area and seasonal international flights.

Riga International Airport (RIX)

The largest airport in Latvia, located about 250 km north of Panevėžys. It serves as a significant hub for flights to and from various international destinations.

Walkability

Walkability in Panevėžys can be characterized by several key factors that influence the ease and convenience of walking within the city. The urban layout features a mix of pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly in the city center, where amenities such as shops, cafes, and public services are concentrated. Wider sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and marked crossings contribute to a safer walking environment. The greenery in and around the city enhances walkability, with parks and green spaces providing pleasant routes for pedestrians. Additionally, the availability of public transportation options supports those who prefer to walk shorter distances to transit stops, further extending overall accessibility. However, some residential areas may present challenges due to less direct routes and occasional lack of infrastructure for pedestrians, such as adequate lighting and clear signage. Overall, while certain aspects of the urban environment support walking, ongoing improvements in infrastructure and connectivity could enhance the walkability experience in Panevėžys.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Lithuanians

The predominant ethnic group in Panevėžys, making up a significant portion of the population.

Poles

A notable minority group in Panevėžys, with a rich cultural heritage.

Russians

Another minority group in the city, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Belarusians

A small community that adds to the multicultural aspect of Panevėžys.

Ukrainians

An emerging demographic group in Panevėžys, especially in recent years.

Other ethnic groups

Includes various smaller communities and immigrants from different countries.

The Soul of Panevėžys

Discover the essence of Panevėžys through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Panevėžys, with a strong local team, BC Lietkabelis, competing in the Lithuanian Basketball League.

Football (Soccer)

Football enjoys popularity in Panevėžys, with local clubs participating in the Lithuanian football league system.

Athletics

Athletics is widely practiced in Panevėžys, with several clubs promoting track and field events among the youth.

Volleyball

Volleyball has a significant following, with both men's and women's teams competing at various levels in Lithuanian leagues.

Handball

Handball is gaining popularity in Panevėžys, with local clubs contributing to the sport's development in the region.

Traffic

Traffic in Panevėžys typically reflects the characteristics of a mid-sized city. The road network features a mix of residential streets, commercial thoroughfares, and important transit routes. During peak hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, congestion can occur, especially near schools and shopping centers. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect various parts of the city and nearby regions. Cycling and walking are also common, supported by dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian pathways. While the traffic volume is generally lower than in larger urban areas, seasonal events and local festivals can lead to temporary increases in vehicle activity. Drivers in the area usually observe standard traffic rules, though as in many cities, caution is advised due to occasional unpredictable pedestrian behavior and cyclists sharing the road. Overall, while traffic can be busy during rush hour, it tends to be manageable throughout much of the day.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Panevėžys.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Lithuanian cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, many restaurants in Panevėžys now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with dishes featuring fresh local produce, mushrooms, and dairy-free options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free versions of traditional dishes like cepelinai, or explore international cuisine at select restaurants offering gluten-free alternatives.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Panevėžys with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this city is predominantly provided by a mix of public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is governed by the Lithuanian Ministry of Health and is funded primarily through the National Health Insurance Fund. This ensures that residents have access to necessary medical services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and hospital treatments. One of the significant healthcare facilities is the Panevėžys Hospital, which offers a range of medical services including emergency care, surgery, and outpatient services. There are also several clinics and health centers that provide primary care and specialized services. In recent years, efforts have been made to improve the quality of healthcare services and infrastructure. The integration of new technologies and practices has been a focus, with a goal of enhancing patient care and accessibility. Additionally, the private healthcare sector is growing, offering alternatives for patients who prefer shorter waiting times and personalized services. Private clinics and medical centers provide various services, often with a focus on specific areas such as dentistry, physiotherapy, and aesthetic treatments. Overall, healthcare in the city strives to meet the needs of its residents, balancing public services with private options to improve overall health outcomes and satisfaction.

Discover Lithuania

Read more in our Lithuania 2024 Travel Guide.

Lithuania Travel Guide