Kaunas travel guide

Photo of view of Kaunas from the observation deck under an oak.
Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Kaunas

Kaunas is a destination known for attractions like Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kaunas Castle, and Kalniečių parkas. Travelers who visit this city and administrative center of Kaunas County in Lithuania are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in Lithuania on foot and walk alongside the over 305.1 thousand locals who live in Kaunas. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

Easily accessible from Kaunas airport, Kaunas is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Lithuania any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Kaunas as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Kaunas is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Kaunas below!

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

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Kaunas, Lithuania. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 369 airlines that fly to Lithuania. Browse the 8 top-rated tours available to you in Kaunas. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Kaunas.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Kaunas, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Kaunas on your vacation in Lithuania.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Kaunas from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading 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

There are many reasons to visit the city of Kaunas, but a trip to Lithuania needs no explanation.

Exploring Lithuania, which spans 65,300 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Lithuania offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kaunas Castle, and the Kalniečių parkas, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Lithuania.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Lithuania.

What to see in Kaunas

Photo of kids playing near Kaunas castle.

Kaunas has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Kaunas.

Top attractions in Kaunas

Home to plenty of top attractions, Kaunas is more than just a wonderful city in Lithuania. Kaunas is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Lithuania.

One fascinating sight 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.

Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Pilies g. 17, 44275 Kaunas, Lithuania.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Lithuania, check out our list of top attractions in Kaunas 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

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Kaunas.

Things to do in Kaunas

Photo of "Vytis" horse in Kaunas city.

Enrich your travel experience in Kaunas by joining tours and activities. Kaunas offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Kaunas below.

Most popular experiences in Kaunas

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Kaunas.

Kaunas offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Ghost & Vampire Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Lithuania.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Kaunas by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Kaunas

Travelers in Kaunas can choose from 3 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Kaunas one of the best travel destinations in Lithuania.

Kaunas also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Private Arrival Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Kaunas City is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Transportation Service. This experience costs around 19 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Kaunas.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Kaunas and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Kaunas below.

Find

All Experiences in Kaunas

See more

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.

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.

Vacation packages in Kaunas

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

The best and easiest way to visit Kaunas is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Lithuania.

Booking a vacation package to Kaunas means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Kaunas to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Kaunas is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 170 unique vacation packages to Kaunas, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Kaunas.

Popular types of vacations in Kaunas

The most popular way to experience Kaunas is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Lithuania. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Kaunas on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Lithuania, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Lithuania, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Kaunas, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Kaunas below.

Top vacation packages in Kaunas

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Lithuania. In fact, you can choose from as many as 170 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Kaunas, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Lithuania.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Kaunas.

For an epic vacation, discover Kaunas and other top destinations in Lithuania on a top-rated holiday like the Cheap 10-Day Lithuania Road Trip Vacation around Kaunas to Vilnius & Klaipėda. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Kaunas, but also in other top places to visit in Lithuania. If VDU Botanical garden, Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kalniečių parkas, 9th Fort of the Kaunas Fortress, and Kaunas Castle are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Kaunas, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Lithuania City Break in Kaunas and spend as little as 192 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Kaunas, including the fantastic VDU Botanical garden, Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park, Kalniečių parkas, Kaukas stairs, and Kaunas Castle.

Get more Kaunas vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Lithuania that match your needs and budget.

Find

All Vacations in Kaunas

See more

Find vacation packages in Kaunas

Discover and compare 170 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Kaunas.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Kaunas get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Lithuania. Your customized holiday package to Kaunas is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Kaunas

To get to the city of Kaunas the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Lithuania can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Kaunas by booking flights with any of the 31 airlines that offer direct flights to Kaunas airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Kaunas airport are Ryanair, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, and Air China. Go to this page to compare all flights to Kaunas.

To reach the city of Kaunas, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Kaunas airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Kaunas, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Kaunas airport and Kaunas below.

Find cheap flights to 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.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Kaunas, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Lithuania. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Kaunas, Lithuania, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Kaunas costs around 18 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair. The flight leaves on June 16 at 2 and departs from Bratislava airport in Bratislava, Slovakia.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Kaunas cost approximately 60 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on October 11 and the return flight is scheduled on October 17. The flight time is around 6 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Vilnius.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Lithuania and the city of Kaunas from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Kaunas

Travelers visiting Kaunas in Lithuania can fly to Kaunas airport directly from 2004 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Kaunas airport and the city of Kaunas in Lithuania depart from Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States, Santa Rosa airport in Santa Rosa, Argentina, and Punta Gorda airport in Punta Gorda, Belize.

Travelers can fly to Lithuania by choosing from from 2 weekly flight(s) from Greenville; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Santa Rosa; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Punta Gorda.

The airline that operates most flights to Lithuania is Finnair. Finnair offers 89 scheduled flight routes to Lithuania.

Discover the most popular flights to Kaunas below. Click to view flights to Kaunas, Lithuania from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Kaunas

Photo of Nemunas river island in Kaunas.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Kaunas is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Kaunas usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Kaunas offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Kaunas and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Kaunas planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Lithuania can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Kaunas. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Kaunas.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Kaunas in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Kaunas

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Kaunas provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Kaunas. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Kaunas

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Kaunas for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Kaunas provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Kaunas are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Kaunas.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Kaunas. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Kaunas

See more

Search for accommodation in Kaunas

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Kaunas on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Kaunas that match the information provided.

Car rental in Kaunas

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

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Kaunas. Kaunas has 11 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Kaunas start from 26.39 EUR per day or 184.72 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Toyota Yaris.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Kaunas, starting from 16.7 EUR per day or 116.87 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Hyundai I10.

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

Popular types of car rental in Kaunas

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Kaunas to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Kaunas can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Lithuania at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Kaunas is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Kaunas is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Kaunas.

Check out all options available in Kaunas and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Lithuania below.

Search for car rental 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.

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.

Popular destinations to visit after Kaunas

Photo of Kaunas, Lithuania by Mimzy

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.

Lithuania is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! 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 of 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 Kaunas old town, Lithuania. Drone aerial view. Summer sunset.

A taste of Lithuania through a visit to Kaunas can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Kaunas to another remarkable destination in Lithuania.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Kaunas to other spectacular locations in Lithuania, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Kaunas

Travelers in Lithuania can catch flights to domestic airports in Vilnius, and Palanga. Domestic flights in Lithuania are operated by 3 airlines: Wizz Air, Wizz Air UK, and Ryanair. There are around 6 scheduled flight routes operating to Kaunas on a weekly basis.

From Kaunas, travelers can book scheduled flights to 2 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Kaunas depart to many top-rated destinations in Lithuania and are offered by Wizz Air, Wizz Air UK, and Ryanair.

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.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.