Things To Do
in Šiauliai
Šiauliai is Lithuania's northern hub, blending historical charm with a lively modern culture. The city sits at the crossroads of major rail and road routes, making it a convenient base for exploring northern Lithuania. Just outside the city lies the Hill of Crosses, one of the country's most iconic and moving landmarks. Within the city, a walkable Old Town, green parks, and easy access to nature create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Šiauliai and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll around the town center, admiring the architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the historic Šiauliai Cathedral and learn about its significance to the locals.
Enjoy lunch at a local café where you can taste traditional Lithuanian dishes. Afterward, head to the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site adorned with thousands of crosses, each telling a unique story. Take your time exploring the area and capturing stunning photos.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city where you can enjoy authentic Lithuanian cuisine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Talkša Lake, soaking in the serene settings at sunset. Wind down with a local drink at a nearby bar.
Visit the Šiauliai Art Gallery to view contemporary and traditional artworks from Lithuanian artists. Spend some time appreciating the various exhibits and possibly attending a workshop. This immersion in local art will enrich your understanding of the culture.
Head to the Pedestrian Street where you can find shops, street art, and local crafts. Enjoy lunch at a café along the street, watching the world go by. Afterward, delve into the history of Šiauliai at the Ausros Museum, discovering artifacts from various periods.
Explore the nightlife by visiting one of Šiauliai's popular pubs that feature live music or cultural performances. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while savoring regional beers and snacks. Return to your accommodation to rest from a day filled with cultural enrichment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel/night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to nature
- Rich history, iconic Hill of Crosses nearby, and friendly locals
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to bigger cities
- Some services and attractions outside the city center may require a short drive
- "Labas" - Hello
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much is this?
- "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Atsiprašau, ar kalbate anglų kalba?" - Excuse me, do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Šiauliai
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast field of crosses set against the Lithuanian countryside; stunning at sunrise or sunset and a poignant symbol of faith and resilience.
Colorful façades, narrow lanes, and traditional architecture provide charming cityscape photography opportunities, especially around daylight hours.
Historic religious and civic buildings create a scenic backdrop for urban photography and architectural detail.
Food in Šiauliai
Šiauliai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms, typically served with sour cream and bacon sauce; a Lithuanian staple found in many traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Bright pink cold beet soup, usually served with hot boiled potatoes; especially popular in summer at cafés and markets.
Potato pudding baked with eggs and onions, often served with rye bread or sour cream.
Smoked, spiced sausage made from pork and garlic; delicious with rye bread and cheese at markets or specialty shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional central market offering fresh produce, dairy, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling local flavors and picking up picnic provisions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is typical when meeting someone; maintain courteous personal space and speak in a direct, respectful manner.
Be mindful in religious sites; dress modestly and speak softly. Phones on silent is appreciated.
Lithuanians may appear reserved at first but are friendly and direct once you converse; politeness and punctuality are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Šiauliai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 5–10% is common if the service is good; some places may add a service charge. Cash is handy for small vendors, but most places accept cards and contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, outdoor festivals, and pleasant, warm weather. It’s ideal for walking tours, markets, and lakeside excursions; occasional rain is possible.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful fall foliage. Great for strolls in parks and forest trails; bring layers for changing weather.
Cold with potential snowfall; expect short days. Indoor cultural venues and cozy cafés are good choices, and a winter market can be festive.
Warming temperatures and budding greenery; frequent showers but pleasant for outdoor exploration and photography.
Šiauliai at Night
Hiking in Šiauliai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic rural paths around Kryžių Kalnas offer short hikes and photo opportunities amid farmland and woodlands.
Nearby forested areas and small lakes provide calm, easy hiking or nature-walking options within a short drive.
Gentle loops along city parks and rivers offer accessible urban hiking close to central Šiauliai.
Airports
How to reach Šiauliai by plane.
Primary international gateway to Lithuania; about a 2+ hour drive from Šiauliai, with rail and bus connections.
Regional international airport offering convenient connections; roughly a 2–3 hour journey by road or rail to Šiauliai.
Coastal airport with seasonal flights and connections; typically a few hours by road from Šiauliai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with Lithuanian language and traditions shaping daily life.
A minority community present in the city, contributing to cultural diversity.
A visible minority with cultural and historical ties to the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a beloved sport across Lithuania and widely followed in Šiauliai, with local clubs and recreational play available.
Popular among both locals and visitors; local leagues and casual fields provide opportunities to watch or join a game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Šiauliai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find soups, dumplings with cheese or mushrooms, and cheese plates commonly available. Look for mushroom dishes and veggie sides, and don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free options or substitutions.