Not far from Vilnius, there is a wonderful little town called Kaunas, still unspoiled and untouched by hordes of tourists, which is definitely worth a visit if you are in Lithuania. Usually, everyone comes here to make a transfer to a low-cost carrier and leave, for example, to Italy. But we’ll linger a bit and stroll through its cobblestone streets. Today I’ll tell you about my trip to Kaunas in Lithuania and give some useful recommendations.
Kaunas is a cozy and bright city, there are very few people here, which is very good, and no one gets in your way.
It’s worth coming here in the spring, in early May, when the city begins to bloom with cherry and apple trees. The scents of lilac and spring flowers float overhead. The mood rises even higher, as does the desire to stay here as long as possible.
Walking around Kaunas – What to see.
Where does this interesting city name – Kaunas – come from? There is a legend that the city got its name in honor of the son of Daugerutis and Milda. This couple was wanted to be burned for their love, but one priest hid them in his cave. And their son, Kaunas, founded the city right there.
Although Lithuania is not so far from Russia, it is quite different from any of our cities. Here people live in houses made of red brick, the streets of Kaunas are clean and tidy, and the city is surrounded by pine forests and green meadows.
Start your trip to Kaunas in Lithuania by immersing yourself in its rich history and medieval charm in the Old Town. Wander through cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with intricate facades, and marvel at architectural gems such as the Kaunas Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Be sure to visit the Town Hall Square, where you’ll find the striking Town Hall and the iconic Kaunas City Museum, offering insights into the city’s past.
If you turn slightly from Town Hall Square, you can see a house with an unusual red roof. This house is called the House of Neptune. When this house was reconstructed, they found an ancient deity that Lithuanian ancestors worshiped. It is believed that there was a shrine of Perun on the site of this house. And now, in this house, there is a Jesuit gymnasium.
Kaunas has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and cultural institutions waiting to be explored. Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the M. K. ฤiurlionis National Art Museum, dedicated to Lithuania’s renowned composer and painter, Mikalojus Konstantinas ฤiurlionis. The museum houses an impressive collection of his works, as well as rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.
Visit the Church of the Ascension of Christ. This place is incredibly grand and unusual. A white-colored temple with not a single icon, here you feel as if in a snow-white shell or in some cocoon protecting from all the problems of the outside world. Clean and bright, it evokes pleasant thoughts, without a shadow of negativity. And if you go out onto the platform, you’ll have a view of the city.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature in Kaunas’ picturesque parks and green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Nemunas River in Santakos Park, or explore the lush landscapes of Kaunas Botanical Garden, home to a diverse array of plant species from around the world. For the more adventurous traveler, outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and hiking are popular options in the surrounding countryside.
Walking along the city streets, you constantly come across various interesting things: here is the ancient Kaunas Castle, which is definitely worth a visit; and here are telephone booths, as it turned out, there are many of them in the city. You could enter one of them and come out in London.
Locals love to walk from Laisvฤs Alley towards the Old Town. Kaunas is a student city, where carefree girls sit with crossed legs on an open terrace, drawing something in their sketchbooks. And in the evening, young companies wrap themselves in checkered blankets and laugh loudly, clinking glasses.
No visit to Kaunas would be complete without sampling its delectable culinary offerings. Indulge in traditional Lithuanian cuisine at cozy taverns and restaurants scattered throughout the city, where hearty dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and ลกaltibarลกฤiai (cold beet soup) await. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of local beer or a shot of ล altinis, Lithuania’s famous herbal liqueur.
If you are going to visit Lithuania, I have posts that might interest you. Read more about the charming city of Vilnius and the majestic Trakai Castle, which stands on the shores of a lake. These stunning places are worthy of all the praise!
How to get to Kaunas – Trip to Kaunas in Lithuania.
Getting There by Air: Kaunas is conveniently served by Kaunas Airport (KUN), located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) to the east of the city center. While Kaunas Airport primarily handles domestic and European flights, it offers connections to major hubs such as London, Dublin, and Oslo, making it accessible to international travelers.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest airfare if you’re traveling from another country.
Traveling by Rail: For those arriving from neighboring countries or within Lithuania itself, traveling to Kaunas by train is a scenic and comfortable option. Kaunas Railway Station, located in the heart of the city, is a major transportation hub offering domestic and international rail connections.
From Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, frequent trains run to Kaunas, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an ideal day trip for visitors staying in Vilnius. International trains from destinations such as Warsaw, Poland, and Minsk, Belarus, also stop at Kaunas, providing convenient access for travelers exploring the Baltic region.
If you have the time and opportunity and want to go beyond one country, you can use my itinerary and visit both Lithuania and Latvia in one trip. These two countries are very close to each other, which makes it affordable to see more at one time.
Exploring by Road: Road travel offers the flexibility to explore Lithuania’s picturesque landscapes en route to Kaunas. The country’s well-maintained road network makes driving a viable option for those seeking independence and adventure.
From Vilnius, the A1 highway provides a direct route to Kaunas, with a journey time of around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Those traveling from other Baltic capitals, such as Riga or Tallinn, can also reach Kaunas via well-connected highways, offering the opportunity to discover multiple destinations within the region. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
The most interesting hotels.
Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Kaunas offers travelers a unique experience. And what better way to immerse yourself in the city’s charm than by staying in one of its most interesting hotels?
HOF Hotel: Located in the heart of Kaunas Old Town, HOF Hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century building, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms adorned with original wooden beams and stylish furnishings. Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves up delicious dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. With its central location and personalized service, HOF Hotel is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a touch of sophistication.
Daugirdas Hotel: For those looking for a taste of aristocratic living, Daugirdas Hotel is the ideal destination. Situated in a meticulously renovated 19th-century mansion, this boutique hotel exudes elegance and opulence at every turn. Each room is uniquely decorated with antique furniture and plush fabrics, creating a luxurious atmosphere that harks back to a bygone era. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s tranquil courtyard or indulge in a pampering spa treatment at the on-site wellness center. With its impeccable service and attention to detail, Daugirdas Hotel offers a truly unforgettable stay.
The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas: For budget-conscious travelers seeking a quirky experience, The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas is the place to be. This eco-friendly hostel, located in a former monastery, offers comfortable dormitory-style accommodation at affordable prices. Guests can socialize in the communal lounge, relax in the peaceful garden, or participate in one of the hostel’s many organized activities, such as city tours and pub crawls. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow travelers while exploring the city.
If you liked this post โTraveler’s Notes: Trip to Kaunas in Lithuaniaโ then please follow me on Instagram, so you donโt miss any updates.
I am available for commercial work such as personal photography, brand photography, product photography and more. If you would like to work with me, feel free to email me – hello@foxgleann.com.
