The Trakai Castle in Lithuania is another reason to come to the Baltics for a weekend. It’s a great idea for a trip, let’s say, for the May holidays. When people talk about the Baltic country, Trakai is the first thing that comes to mind, a place that must be included in the “must-see” list.
This terrain is something like Jurmala for Riga residents or an Alpine village for Bavarians. Here, you should take a catamaran or a boat, a basket of fruits, and a bottle of wine and explore the surroundings.
Explore the Trakai Castle.
Trakai harmoniously combines an orange-colored castle, the mirrored surface of the water, boats painted in the Lithuanian flag with fishermen sitting in them; quaint courtyards with ladybugs, glass bottles, hand-painted. All this is complemented by sunny weather, spring mood, and red tulips growing everywhere.
Lithuanian kings once rested here, and now it’s a small cozy settlement surrounded by a lake from all sides.
The Trakai fortress has never been conquered by enemies, and it is considered the most impregnable fortress in Europe and the largest castle in Lithuania. The trick in defense is that the castle is located on Galve Island (translated as “head”), surrounded by water.
Having lost its military significance, the castle once became the residence of the infamous Prince Vytautas, a place for lavish feasts and receptions. Throughout its existence, the fortress has been both a choir for the ruling elite and a prison and an abandoned pile of stones. Today, it’s an attraction for tourists.
Today, all travelers are told about Prince Vytautas and that during Soviet times, they filmed “Adventures of Electronics” here.
There’s also a legend that says if you sit on the opposite bank during a full moon, opposite the southwest tower, and look towards the wall, you can shortly before dawn see Prince Vytautas himself. If you’re destined to see the ghost, the whole year will be successful and prosperous.
I didn’t wait for the full moon, didn’t see the ghost, but I didn’t come here for him. People come to Trakai to relax, marvel at nature, and swim in the local lake.
As you step inside the castle grounds, prepare to be transported back in time to the medieval era. Explore the various chambers and halls of the castle, each offering a glimpse into the past. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Castle Museum, where you can learn more about the history and significance of Trakai Castle in Lithuania through interactive exhibits and displays.
Planning a trip to Lithuania? Then include cities like Kaunas and Vilnius in your itinerary. These ancient cities are very beautiful, and I highly recommend seeing them!
Taking a stroll around Lake Galvė.
After exploring the castle, take some time to stroll around Lake Galvė and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The serene waters of the lake, surrounded by lush greenery, provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk or a relaxing boat ride. During the summer months, you can even rent a kayak or pedal boat and explore the lake at your own pace.
Sampling traditional Lithuanian cuisine.
No visit to Trakai would be complete without sampling some of the delicious traditional Lithuanian cuisine. Head to one of the local restaurants or cafes near the castle and treat yourself to authentic dishes such as kibinai (savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables), cepelinai (potato dumplings filled with meat), or šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup). Pair your meal with a glass of Lithuanian beer or mead for the perfect culinary experience.
If you want to expand your trip and tackle Latvia in addition to Lithuania, then I have the perfect itinerary through those two countries.
How to get to Trakai Castle.
Trakai Castle is conveniently located approximately 28 kilometers west of Vilnius, making it easily accessible for visitors. There are several transportation options available to reach this historic site:
By Car: Renting a car is perhaps the most convenient way to travel to castle, especially if you prefer flexibility in your schedule. The journey from Vilnius takes around 30-40 minutes via the A16 highway. Parking facilities are available near the castle for a nominal fee. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
By Bus: For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus is a practical option. Several bus companies operate regular services between Vilnius and Trakai. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes, and buses depart from the Vilnius Bus Station (Autobusų stotis). Check the bus schedule here – www.autobusustotis.lt.
By Train: Another scenic way to reach Trakai is by train. Vilnius Train Station offers regular services to Trakai, with the journey lasting approximately 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Trakai Train Station, it’s a leisurely 20-minute walk to the castle, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Opening Hours: Trakai Castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (May to September) and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October to April).
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour of the castle to gain deeper insights into its history and architecture. Guided tours are available in multiple languages and typically last around one hour.
Weather Considerations: Lithuania experiences all four seasons, so be sure to check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, especially if you plan to explore the outdoor areas around the castle.
The Best Hotels near Trakai Castle.
Here, we unveil some of the best hotels near castle, promising an unforgettable stay amidst tranquility and luxury.
Trakai Island Castle Resort & Spa: Situated on the shores of Lake Galvė, Trakai Island Castle Resort & Spa embodies luxury and sophistication. Boasting elegant rooms with panoramic views of the castle and the surrounding landscape, this resort provides a serene retreat for travelers. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, savor exquisite cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature with leisurely walks along the lakefront promenade.
Idilliškasis Apartamentai: For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, Idilliškasis Apartamentai offers a collection of stylish apartments in the heart of Trakai town. Each apartment is tastefully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, making it ideal for both short and long stays. With its central location, guests have easy access to Trakai Castle, as well as nearby restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Aparthotel Totoriškių Sodyba: Set amidst the tranquil countryside, Aparthotel Totoriškių Sodyba provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush meadows and forests, this charming hotel offers spacious apartments decorated in a traditional Lithuanian style. Guests can unwind in the sauna, take leisurely strolls through the expansive gardens, or simply enjoy a quiet evening by the fireplace.
A visit to Trakai Castle is a journey back in time to an era of knights, royalty, and medieval grandeur. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this place offers something for everyone. Plan your trip, immerse yourself in Lithuania’s rich heritage, and create unforgettable memories in this captivating destination.
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