Things To Do
in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of historical architecture, cultural hubs, and natural beauty. Situated at the confluence of the Neris and Nemunas rivers, it boasts a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The city is known for its unique interwar architecture and numerous museums, including the M.K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum.

Kaunas is also a university town, giving it a youthful and dynamic atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Kaunas
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Kaunas Castle, where you can explore its towers and learn about its history.

afternoon
:

Visit the bustling Laisvės Alėja, a pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes, perfect for lunch and people-watching.

evening
:

Dine at the renowned 1.19 restaurant, known for its innovative take on traditional Lithuanian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the M.K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum to admire the works of Lithuania's famous painter and composer.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Žaliakalnis district, known for its wooden houses and beautiful parks.

evening
:

Enjoy a drink at one of the local breweries, like the Volfas Engelman Brewery, where you can savor local craft beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$2
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$50
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Vibrant food scene with delicious local dishes.
  • Welcoming and friendly locals.
  • Limited options for vegan and gluten-free diets.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent in off-peak hours.
  • Some attractions may have limited English signage.
  • "Labas" - Hello
  • "Ačiū" - Thank you
  • "Prašan" - Excuse me
  • "Kiek tai kainuoja?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Kur yra tualetas?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Kaunas

Visit one of these nice places.

Kaunas Castle

The medieval castle with its striking red brick towers is a perfect backdrop for historical photography.

Žaliakalnis Funicular

Capture scenic views of the city as you ride up the funicular to the top of the hill.

Freedom Avenue

This pedestrian street is lined with beautiful architecture and lively street life, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kaunas

Kaunas offers a delightful culinary experience that merges traditional Lithuanian flavors with modern influences. Must-try local dishes include cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and kibinai (savory pastries).

Kaunas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cepelinai

Large potato dumplings filled with meat, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Šaltibarščiai

A vibrant cold beet soup made with kefir, perfect for hot summer days.

Kibinai

Savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, originally from the Karaim community.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kaunas Central Market

A lively market where you can sample local produce, meats, and cheeses, along with street food options.

Street Food Festival

An annual event showcasing various food trucks and stalls offering local and international cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kaunas experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and can reach up to 25°C. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting, accompanied by direct eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Personal Space

Lithuanians value personal space; maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kaunas is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings.

Tipping in Kaunas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 25°C, ideal for exploring parks and outdoor cafes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and the weather is cool, perfect for walking tours.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, making it a charming time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Kaunas at Night

Kaunas has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas include the Old Town and the city center, where you can find everything from trendy cocktail bars to traditional pubs. Venues often host live music, DJ sets, and themed nights, catering to a diverse crowd of locals and tourists.

Hiking in Kaunas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pazaislis Park

Located near the Pazaislis Monastery, this park offers scenic walking trails and beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Neris Regional Park

A short drive from Kaunas, this park has numerous hiking trails along the Neris River, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Kaunas by plane.

Kaunas Airport (KUN)

Located approximately 15 km from the city center, Kaunas Airport serves both domestic and international flights and is the main gateway for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kaunas is a highly walkable city, especially in the Old Town and city center, where most attractions are within easy walking distance. The pedestrian-friendly streets, parks, and well-marked pathways make it a pleasant experience to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Lithuanians

The majority ethnic group, Lithuanians have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their hospitality.

Polish Community

A significant minority group in Kaunas, the Polish community contributes to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is the most popular sport in Lithuania, and Kaunas has a rich history in the sport, hosting several professional teams.

Football (Soccer)

Football is also widely followed, with local teams competing in national leagues and contributing to the city's vibrant sports culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kaunas can vary, but rush hour can lead to congestion, particularly in the city center. Public transportation includes buses and trolleybuses, which are reliable and affordable, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaunas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but vegan choices may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes may not be suitable, so it’s advisable to inquire about gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lithuania is of decent quality, with both public and private facilities available. In case of emergencies, the main hospitals in Kaunas are well-equipped, and it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance covering health services.

Discover Lithuania

Read more in our Lithuania 2025 Travel Guide.

Lithuania Travel Guide