Things To Do
in Šiauliai
Šiauliai is the fourth largest city in Lithuania and is known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture. The city is home to the famous Hill of Crosses, a unique site of pilgrimage and religious significance. Šiauliai also boasts a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city's rich heritage.
The bustling city center offers many shops, cafes, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
- "Labas rytas" - Good morning
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Prašome" - Please
- "Sutinku" - I agree
- "Iki pasimatymo" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Šiauliai Aušros Museum, where you will learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Don’t forget to check out the unique exhibits showcasing local art and artifacts.
Visit the famous Hill of Crosses, a spiritual site adorned with thousands of crosses. Enjoy a peaceful walk among the crosses while soaking in the serene atmosphere of this unique pilgrimage site.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Lithuanian cuisine. Take your time to enjoy the local dishes and perhaps try some regional wine.
Begin your day with a peaceful walk in the nearby Maironis Park, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and prepare for the day ahead.
Head to Lake Talkša for some relaxation by the water. You can have a picnic, take a swim, or simply enjoy the stunning view of the lake.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a lakeside café. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and museums.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes and forests.
- Growing economic opportunities and investments in the region.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Harsh winter weather can be challenging for some.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options than bigger cities.
- Limited international connectivity in terms of air travel.
Best Activities in Šiauliai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the iconic site of Šiauliai Hill of Crosses, a unique outdoor destination with thousands of crosses and religious symbols on a small hill. It's a place for reflection and contemplation.
Explore the picturesque Rūpintojėlis Park, an ideal spot for walking, cycling, or picnicking. The park features beautiful greenery, lakes, and a peaceful ambiance.
Tours
Uncover the best of Šiauliai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Šiauliai
Visit one of these nice places.
A famous pilgrimage site with thousands of crosses, offering a unique and striking backdrop for photos.
A bustling square with charming architecture, providing a picturesque setting for photography.
A colorful and vibrant street lined with cafes and shops, perfect for capturing local life and culture.
Food in Šiauliai
Šiauliai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cepelinai are large potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat and served with sour cream sauce. They can be found at Šiauliai's traditional Lithuanian restaurants like Senieji Rūsiai or Gubernija.
Must-Try!
Kibinai are savory pastries filled with minced mutton and onion, reminiscent of the Karaite culinary heritage. Try them at Kibinine Akropolio or Kibininė Ausros Vartuose for an authentic taste.
Dziugas is a famous Lithuanian cheese aged for various periods, offering flavors ranging from mild to intense. Visit local markets or specialty stores to savor and purchase this renowned cheese.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Šiauliai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Šiauliai Market is a bustling hub of local flavors, offering a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal bread, honey, and smoked meats. Don't miss trying the freshly prepared smoked fish and pickles.
This vibrant street market is a treasure trove of street food delights. Sample grilled meats, fried snacks, and traditional Lithuanian desserts like šakotis and kūčiukai here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Šiauliai, it is customary to offer a handshake, and it is polite to address people using their titles and surnames, unless invited to use their first name.
In Lithuanian culture, respect for elders is important. It is customary to show deference and use polite forms of address when interacting with older individuals.
When dining in Šiauliai, it is important to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal. Additionally, it is polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'Laba diena' (good day) before starting a meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Šiauliai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Šiauliai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Šiauliai, Lithuania, tipping is not mandatory in restaurants, cafes, or bars, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service is common. In some cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it's recommended to check before tipping.
In Šiauliai, Lithuania, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about card acceptance before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Šiauliai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to May) is a great time to visit Šiauliai, as the city comes to life with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. Visitors can expect mild temperatures and the opportunity to witness nature awakening after winter.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Šiauliai, with long days and warm temperatures. Visitors can expect vibrant events, outdoor festivals, and the chance to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.
Autumn (September to November) brings colorful foliage and a more relaxed atmosphere to Šiauliai. Visitors can expect beautiful fall foliage, mild temperatures, and the opportunity to experience local harvest festivals and cultural events.
Winter (December to February) is a quieter time to visit Šiauliai, with a chance of snow and cold temperatures. Visitors can expect a festive atmosphere, Christmas markets, and the opportunity to enjoy winter activities such as ice skating and exploring the city's winter wonderland.
Šiauliai at Night
Hiking in Šiauliai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring a variety of hiking trails, lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
A local park with walking paths that allows visitors to enjoy leisurely hikes amid landscaped gardens and scenic views.
A forested area near Šiauliai offering various trails for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
A picturesque lake surrounded by woodland areas with well-marked hiking paths ideal for walking, jogging, and enjoying lakeside views.
Central park in Šiauliai featuring walking paths, open spaces, and an opportunity for a short hike within the city.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Šiauliai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Šiauliai by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Lithuania, located approximately 170 km from Šiauliai.
A significant airport in Lithuania, situated about 130 km from Šiauliai, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located near the Baltic coast, this airport is around 200 km from Šiauliai, providing access to seasonal and some international flights.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 235 km from Šiauliai, offering a wide range of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Šiauliai, making up the majority of the population.
A significant minority group in Šiauliai, reflecting the historical ties and presence in Lithuania.
Another minority group in Šiauliai, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Present in smaller numbers, Belarusians form part of the demographic fabric of Šiauliai.
A smaller ethnic group, Ukrainians have been part of the city's demographic landscape.
Includes various other minority groups that contribute to the overall population diversity.
The Soul of Šiauliai
Discover the essence of Šiauliai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Šiauliai, with a strong local team and numerous community events and leagues.
Widely played in Šiauliai, with several clubs and a passionate fan base supporting local teams.
A significant sport in Šiauliai, featuring various events and competitions for both youth and adults.
An emerging sport in Šiauliai, with increasing participation in schools and local clubs.
Gaining popularity, with several clubs and active participation at both youth and adult levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Šiauliai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Šiauliai's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Check out Lauro Guolis, which provides delectable vegetarian interpretations of traditional Lithuanian recipes.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at cafes like CoffeInn, where gluten-free cakes and snacks are available alongside the regular menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Šiauliai with these cultural adventures.