Things To Do
in Šakiai

Šakiai is a charming town in southwestern Lithuania, known for its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant local culture. It serves as a regional hub for trade and commerce, while also offering a glimpse into Lithuania's rural heritage. The town is characterized by its picturesque parks, historical buildings, and friendly community, making it an appealing destination for visitors.

With a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, Šakiai offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore Lithuania's lesser-known gems.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Šakiai
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the town's main square, visiting the Church of St. George, and enjoying breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Šakiai Museum to learn about the town's history and culture, followed by a leisurely walk along the Šešupė River.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Lithuanian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a nearby pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the Šakiai Regional Park for a morning hike, immersing yourself in the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and homemade goods, and pick up some souvenirs.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or concert at the Šakiai Cultural Center, followed by dinner at a popular eatery in town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$2-$3
🍺Local beer$2-$4
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night stay$40-$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Lithuanian speakers
  • "Labas" - Hello
  • "Ačiū" - Thank you
  • "Prašome" - Please
  • "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Šakiai

Visit one of these nice places.

Šakiai Church of St. George

An architectural gem with beautiful details, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

Šešupė River

The serene river provides picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Local Parks

Various parks around Šakiai are ideal for nature photography, showcasing the region's lush greenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Šakiai

Šakiai offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the traditional flavors of Lithuania, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

Šakiai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cepelinai

These potato dumplings filled with meat are a beloved Lithuanian dish, often served with sour cream and bacon.

Must-Try!

Šaltibarščiai

A cold beet soup, perfect for hot summer days, made with beets, yogurt, and dill.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Šakiai Farmers' Market

Open on weekends, this market features fresh produce, homemade pastries, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Šakiai experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, often with snowfall, while summers are warm and pleasant. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Average temperatures range from -5°C (23°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating; it's polite to finish everything on your plate.

Respect for Traditions

Showing appreciation for local customs and traditions is important, especially during cultural events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Šakiai is generally a safe town for visitors. Common precautions include keeping an eye on personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Šakiai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, especially if service is good.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Summer is warm and inviting, perfect for exploring local markets and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Autumn offers colorful foliage and harvest-related events, ideal for experiencing local traditions.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the town's festive decorations create a charming atmosphere for visitors.

Nightlife Guide

Šakiai at Night

Šakiai's nightlife is laid-back yet enjoyable, with several pubs and small bars where locals gather. The atmosphere is friendly, and you can often find live music or cultural events happening on weekends. While not as vibrant as larger cities, the local scene offers a taste of Lithuanian social life, with opportunities to try regional beers and spirits.

Hiking in Šakiai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rūdninkai Forest Trail

A scenic trail that takes you through the lush Rūdninkai Forest, offering beautiful views and wildlife sightings.

Šakiai Nature Reserve Trail

This trail leads visitors through the picturesque landscapes of the Šakiai Nature Reserve, showcasing the area's biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Šakiai by plane.

Kaunas Airport (KUN)

Located about 90 km from Šakiai, this airport serves as the nearest major international gateway, with flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Šakiai is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets and parks, encouraging leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Lithuanians

The majority of the population is ethnically Lithuanian, with a strong sense of national identity.

Polish Minority

There is a small Polish minority in Šakiai, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Lithuania, with local teams and community events attracting fans.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played, with local clubs representing Šakiai in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Šakiai is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect the town to nearby areas. Bicycles are also a common mode of transport, with designated paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Šakiai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff for specific ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Šakiai are accessible, with a local clinic and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, nearby larger cities provide hospitals with comprehensive services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Lithuania

Read more in our Lithuania 2025 Travel Guide.

Lithuania Travel Guide