Biržai Castle travel guide

Biržai Castle, a symbol of Lithuanian heritage, has a rich and tumultuous history that dates back to the late 16th century. Built in 1586 by the influential Radziwiłł family, the castle was strategically positioned to defend against northern invaders. This impressive Renaissance-style fortress not only served a military purpose but also acted as a center for culture and governance.

During the 17th century, Biržai Castle became a focal point in the wars between Sweden and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The castle endured several sieges and was partially destroyed in 1625 by Swedish forces. It was subsequently rebuilt, only to be ravaged again in the late 18th century.

In the 19th century, the castle fell into disrepair, but extensive restoration efforts in the 20th century have revived much of its former grandeur. Today, the castle houses a museum that showcases its storied past, featuring exhibits on Lithuanian history, archaeology, and the Radziwiłł family.

Visitors to Biržai Castle can explore its well-preserved bastions, enjoy the scenic views of Lake Širvėna, and immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of this remarkable landmark.

Biržai Castle boasts an impressive array of unique features that captivate visitors. One of its most striking aspects is the extensive bastion fortifications that surround the castle, showcasing a pentagonal layout that reflects advanced 17th-century military engineering. These bastions, along with the substantial moat system, are some of the best-preserved examples in the region, providing a glimpse into the defensive strategies of the era.

Inside the castle, the Biržai Regional Museum 'Sėla' offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, including local archaeological finds, historical documents, and ethnographic exhibits. One particularly unique exhibit is the 'Lithuanian Wars' display, which vividly portrays the castle's turbulent past and its role in various regional conflicts. Additionally, the museum houses an impressive collection of ancient musical instruments, adding an unexpected cultural dimension to the visit.

Another distinctive feature is the wooden drawbridge, which has been meticulously reconstructed to mirror its historical design. This functional drawbridge serves as both a historical artifact and a practical entryway, enhancing the castle's authentic medieval atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the beautifully reconstructed interiors, which include period-appropriate furnishings and decor, offering a tangible connection to the castle's storied past.

Located in the dynamic Biržai, the popular Biržai Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Biržai or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Lithuania.

Biržai is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Biržai offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Biržai and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Širvėnos ežero tiltas, Biržai Church of St. John the Baptist, and Biržų krašto muziejus „Sėla“.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Biržai has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Biržai, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Lithuania!

Biržai Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Biržai, Lithuania. If you're flying in, Riga International Airport is approximately 57.9 miles (93.2 km) away from Biržai. From there, you can easily reach Biržai Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Biržai, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Biržai Castle, which is located 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Biržai Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is J, Radvilos g. 3, 41175 Biržai, Lithuania.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Biržai Castle!

The best time to explore Biržai Castle is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and castle tours. Summer, particularly July and August, sees the castle grounds at their most vibrant, with lush greenery and blooming gardens enhancing the picturesque scenery.

Visiting in late spring or early autumn can also be advantageous due to relatively lower crowd levels compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more serene and immersive experience. Additionally, the castle often hosts cultural events and medieval festivals during the summer, providing a unique and engaging way to learn about its history and local traditions.

For those interested in photography, the long daylight hours of summer offer ample opportunities to capture stunning images of the castle and its surroundings. Overall, planning your trip between May and September ensures the best weather conditions and the most enriching experiences, making it the best time to visit Biržai Castle.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Biržai Castle and other top attractions in Biržai than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Biržai include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Biržai Castle's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Biržai Castle and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind castle in Lithuania.

Conveniently explore Biržai Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Biržai by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Biržai Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Biržai has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Biržai Castle below.

Aside from Biržai Castle, Biržai is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Biržai, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Širvėnos ežero tiltas, Biržai Church of St. John the Baptist, and Biržų krašto muziejus „Sėla“.

Širvėnos ežero tiltas is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Biržai, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,200 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Širvėnos ežero tiltas is Lake Širvėna, 41190 Biržai, Lithuania.

Another appreciated attraction in Biržai is Biržai Church of St. John the Baptist. Like Širvėnos ežero tiltas, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 200 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Radvilos g. 5, 41175 Biržai, Lithuania.

Biržų krašto muziejus „Sėla“ is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Biržai. This museum and top attraction in Biržai has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 140 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Radvilos g. 3, 41175 Biržai, Lithuania.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Biržai below.