Kaunas travel guide

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Introduction to Kaunas

Welcome to Kaunas, Lithuania's hidden jewel. In this city, the past and present blend together in a beautiful display of architecture and culture.

Kaunas is known for its stunning Art Deco and Modernist buildings. Vytautas the Great War Museum and Christ’s Resurrection Church are must-sees for anyone who loves architecture. The city also invites you to explore its rich history in Old Town, Kaunas Castle, and the Ninth Fort.

The city is alive with energy from its large student population, keeping the nightlife exciting. Freedom Avenue and Old Town are filled with pubs, bars, and clubs, showing vibrant local social life. Kaunas Castle also hosts music, arts, cultural, and historical events. For more details on the city’s events, the official Kaunas website is the best place to look.

Kaunas is remarkable for being affordable and easy to get to. Its central location is great for those looking to explore Lithuania's attractions. Start your adventure here to see why Kaunas leaves a lasting impression.

History of Kaunas

Known as the second-largest city in Lithuania, the vibrant city of Kaunas is steeped in history and culture. Established in the 14th century, Kaunas served as a significant center of Lithuanian economic, academic, and cultural life.

During the interwar period, Kaunas was the temporary capital of Lithuania, contributing significantly to its architectural and cultural development. The city is home to a wealth of Art Deco architecture from this era, including the famous Kaunas Central Post Office and Christ's Resurrection Church.

The city also boasts a rich Jewish heritage, with the old town of Kaunas being a major center of Jewish learning and culture until World War II. Today, the Kaunas Ghetto is a poignant reminder of this tumultuous period in the city's history.

Kaunas is a city that beautifully blends the old and new, offering a captivating glimpse into Lithuania's past, while also looking forward to the future. This rich history and culture make Kaunas a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Lithuania.

Top services in Kaunas

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Kaunas, Lithuania. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Kaunas, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Lithuania. Check out the best things to do in Kaunas by browsing over 8 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 11 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Kaunas with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Kaunas from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Kaunas with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Kaunas travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Kaunas!

Best time to visit Kaunas

The best time to explore Kaunas, Lithuania, mainly depends on your personal preferences. The city experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and chilly winters. If you prefer warm weather, the period from late May to early September is ideal for you. During this time, the temperatures are comfortable, averaging around 20-25°C, and the days are long, allowing for plenty of sightseeing. This is also the period when Kaunas hosts various cultural events, such as the Kaunas Jazz festival in April and the Pažaislis Music Festival from June to August, which can greatly enrich your visit. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting in late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is still pleasant and the city less crowded. Winter visits offer a unique charm with snow-covered landscapes, but be prepared for cold weather, with temperatures often dropping below zero.

Weather in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania experiences a temperate seasonal climate. This includes warm, often hot, summers and cold, frequently snowy, winters. The summer season, from June to August, typically sees temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. However, heatwaves can push temperatures above 30°C. The winter season, from December to February, often sees temperatures below freezing, with averages between -5°C and -10°C, and occasional extreme lows down to -20°C.

Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures, with averages ranging from 10°C to 15°C. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight increase during summer months. Snowfall during winter can be substantial, which may affect travel plans. Therefore, travelers should pack accordingly to the season of their visit and be prepared for unexpected shifts in temperature and precipitation.

Local tip for visiting Kaunas

When visiting Kaunas, the insider tip is to explore the local art scene, which might not be commonly known to tourists. Kaunas is the cultural heart of Lithuania and is home to many hidden art gems. Start off your day at the M. Žilinskas Art Gallery, which hosts a variety of Lithuanian and international exhibitions. Then, head to the Kaunas Picture Gallery and take in the works of the most famous Lithuanian artists. One unique aspect of Kaunas is its outdoor street art, so don't forget to stroll around the city and discover vibrant murals and installations. These works often reflect social and political themes and provide a unique insight into the local culture and mindset. This insider tip is sure to give you a deeper understanding of Kaunas' vibrant art scene and its influence on the city's cultural fabric.

Learn more about Lithuania

With destinations such as Kaunas, a trip to Lithuania needs no further explanation. Spanning over 65,300 square kilometers, Lithuania is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Lithuania has something to enchant every traveler.

In Kaunas alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kaunas Castle, and Kalniečių parkas. Thus, a trip to Lithuania becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Lithuania offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Lithuania. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Lithuania and its offers.

What to see in Kaunas

Photo of kids playing near Kaunas castle.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Kaunas, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Kaunas offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Kaunas travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Kaunas

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Kaunas is more than just a wonderful city in Lithuania. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Lithuania's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Kaunas is the unforgettable Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Kaunas.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Kaunas, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Kaunas, including the fascinating Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kaunas Castle, Kalniečių parkas, 9th Fort of the Kaunas Fortress, and Pažaislis Monastery and Church.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Kaunas.

Things to do in Kaunas

Photo of "Vytis" horse in Kaunas city.

You've explored Kaunas's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Kaunas. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Kaunas, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Kaunas

A visit to Kaunas gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Ghost & Vampire Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Kaunas, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Kaunas. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Kaunas offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Kaunas

In Kaunas, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 3 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Kaunas also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Kaunas Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days, for example, is the cheapest Self Guided Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Kaunas adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Kaunas right below.

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Search for things to do in Kaunas

Discover the best things to do in Kaunas. Choose from 8 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Kaunas. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Kaunas.

What to eat in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, is a gastronomic delight offering a myriad of culinary experiences. The city centre and Old Town are the best places to eat in Kaunas, brimming with a diverse array of eateries. You can find everything from buzzing food markets dishing out street food to high-end restaurants serving sophisticated Lithuanian cuisine. Must-try local dishes include 'Cepelinai', a potato dumpling stuffed with meat, and 'Šaltibarščiai', a refreshing cold beet soup. For a more intimate dining experience, visit the cosy restaurants in the Vilniaus street area. Don't miss the 'Kibinai', a traditional Karaim pastry, best sampled in the historic Trakai district. Savour the 'Sakotis', a Lithuanian spit cake, for dessert at any local bakery. For those who prefer a modern twist to traditional dishes, eateries like Uoksas and Monte Pacis offer innovative Lithuanian cuisine. Remember, most restaurants close early, so plan accordingly. No matter where you dine in Kaunas, enjoy the hearty and robust flavours of Lithuanian cuisine that truly reflect the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Best Shopping in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, is a haven for shoppers, boasting a mix of modern shopping malls, artisan markets, and quaint boutiques. The Akropolis and Mega malls are the best places to go shopping in Kaunas, offering a wide range of local and international brands. For a more unique experience, visit the Old Town's Laisvės Alėja, a bustling pedestrian avenue filled with local shops selling handcrafted goods, traditional Lithuanian souvenirs, and unique fashion pieces. Don't miss the chance to buy a piece of amber jewelry, Lithuania's national gem, or a traditional linen product, representing the country's rich textile history. If you're in town on a Saturday, the Kaunas Farmer's Market is a must-visit. Here, you can find fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisanal crafts, perfect for a memorable souvenir. Most shops operate from 10 am to 10 pm, but it's worth checking individual store timings. English is widely spoken in shopping centers, making it easier for international visitors. With its blend of modern and traditional shopping experiences, Kaunas truly caters to every shopper's taste.

Best Free Things to Do in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, brims with interesting and cost-free activities for every type of traveler. Start by exploring the Old Town, where you'll find cobblestone streets lined with charming medieval architecture, picturesque squares, and the captivating Kaunas Castle. Meandering down Laisvės Alėja, the tree-lined pedestrian boulevard offers numerous shops, cafes, and street performers. Art lovers should visit the open-air gallery at the Wall of Fame, showcasing vibrant murals and street art. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a peaceful stroll in the lush Žaliakalnis Funicular Park, or along the banks of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. History buffs should not miss the historic Ninth Fort Museum, a haunting reminder of Kaunas' history during World War II. The city is also home to many beautiful churches like the Pazaislis Monastery and St. Michael the Archangel Church, which provide insight into the country's religious history. In addition, numerous festivals take place throughout the year, often featuring free concerts, exhibitions, and performances. With these best free things to do in Kaunas, travelers can enjoy a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a penny.

How to get to Kaunas

International travelers can fly to Kaunas by booking flights with Wizz Air UK, Corendon Airlines Europe, and Wizz Air, offering flights to Kaunas. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Kaunas.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Kaunas, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Kaunas. Go to this page to compare all flights to Kaunas.

Find cheap flights to Kaunas

Photo of view of City Hall in old town. Kaunas.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Kaunas is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Kaunas. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Kaunas, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Kaunas even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Kaunas both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Kaunas

Travelers visiting Kaunas can easily access the city via Kaunas, offering direct connection to 337 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Kaunas below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Kaunas and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Kaunas

Photo of aerial view of Kaunas city center. Kaunas is the second-largest city in country and has historically been a leading centre of economic.

To navigate Kaunas effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 11 car rental companies in Kaunas, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Kaunas start at 15 EUR per day or 106 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Polo, Automatic. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Kaunas, starting at 14 EUR per day or 100 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500, 2/3 Door.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Kaunas, Lithuania below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Kaunas

Renting a car in Kaunas is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Kaunas, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Kaunas for your upcoming adventures in Lithuania below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Kaunas

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Kaunas. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Kaunas, Lithuania, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Kaunas

Photo of Nemunas river island in Kaunas.

The city of Kaunas is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Lithuania. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Lithuania has it all.

Each destination in Lithuania offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Lithuania that are as magical as the city of Kaunas. The most popular travel destinations in Lithuania are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Lithuania

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Lithuania. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Kaunas

Photo of aerial view of a sunny day in Kaunas city town hall square with red roof tops.

Experience the authentic charm of Lithuania by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Kaunas. Explore other destinations around Lithuania with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Kaunas to other amazing locations in Lithuania, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Lithuania for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Kaunas.

Search domestic flights from Kaunas

Traveling to another city or region in Lithuania? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Kaunas to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Lithuania on the selected dates.

Transportation in Kaunas

Kaunas, Lithuania, offers a variety of convenient and accessible transportation options, making it easy for visitors to navigate the city.

Public transport in Kaunas is well-developed and includes buses and trolleys. The city's bus system is extensive, reaching all corners of the city and surrounding areas. Trolleybuses are a popular choice for more central routes. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, newsstands, or directly from the driver.

Taxis are abundant in Kaunas and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. For those preferring to drive, there are several car rental companies available, both international and local.

For a unique local experience, try the funiculars. Kaunas has two operating funiculars, which provide both an unusual mode of transportation and a great view of the city. The Žaliakalnis Funicular, built in 1931, is the oldest in Lithuania and is a must-see for any visitors to the city.

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