13 Things To Do In Kaunas: Explore Lithuania’s Hidden Gem

Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, is an underrated gem that doesn’t get the attention it deserves if you ask me. 

There aren’t that many things to do in Kaunas if I’m honest and so most tourists naturally flock to Vilnius. However, Kaunas has quietly blossomed into a vibrant cultural hub brimming with history, art and charming character and it is well worth a visit. 

I spent two days exploring this charming city and fell in love with it’s charm, the laid back vibes and taking it all in at a slow pace. So, if you’re planning a trip to Lithuania, here are some must-see things to do in Kaunas and why you should visit.

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Top Things to Do in Kaunas

You can see almost everything in Kaunas on a day trip. With its blend of the charming Old Town, rich culture, excellent food and coffee spots and quirky art, there are some pretty interesting things to do in Kaunas. 

1. Visit Kaunas Castle

No trip to Kaunas is complete without a visit to Kaunas Castle. This 14th-century fortress is one of Lithuania’s most significant historical landmarks. Though there isn’t much left of the castle itself and it is partially in ruins, the castle still holds a powerful presence overlooking the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris Rivers. 

You don’t necessarily need to pay to visit the inside of the castle unless you are a history nerd. I have heard it’s pretty underwhelming, though climbing up the tower does provide a great vantage point. 

Viewing the castle from a distance and reading about its role in defending the city from medieval invaders was enough for me.

There is also a great restaurant opposite the castle where you can grab a drink or even better, an ice cream from the stall around the corner.

2. Discover Kaunas Old Town

Kaunas Old Town is the beating heart of the city.

As someone who loves to get lost in the narrow streets of European cities, Kaunas’ Old Town was an absolute delight. Not only is it quieter and more deserted than Vilnius Old Town – something which I didn’t think was possible, but strolling through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time.

With medieval buildings, charming squares and quaint cafes lining the street, it all looks so pretty in Autumn as the leaves begin to change colour.

3. Town Hall Square

The iconic Town Hall, affectionately known as ‘The White Swan’, stands proudly at the centre of the Old Town. 

This white Baroque-style building is a photographer’s dream, alongside the beautiful pink church nearby. If you’re a fan of architecture or just want to soak in the city’s history, this is a must-visit spot.

All around the square, you’ll find cozy cafes dotted around. I would say this makes a great spot for people watching – but there are almost no people around to watch! The streets are so eerily quiet in parts of Kaunas, but in a very pleasant way. It’s an unusual but wonderful feeling.

4. Stroll down Laisvės Alėja

Laisvės Alėja or Liberty Avenue is the place to be in Kaunas. This long, wide pedestrianised avenue is breathtakingly beautiful – particularly in early Autumn, when I visited.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal or a coffee, Laisvės Alėja is the place to be. Unlike in most other cities where the general consensus is to avoid touristy areas when in search for authentic food that isn’t overpriced, the same cannot be said about Kaunas.

This wide avenue stretches through the heart of the city and is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants galore. Everything from the traditional spots that haven’t changed their decor since the Soviet times to the highly aesthetic, modern, instagrammable places. This street has it all. 

I wrote a guide to the best restaurants I dined at in Kaunas which outlines all of my favourites. You can click the link above to read it. 

I loved taking a leisurely stroll here in the mornings and evenings, stopping for a coffee while soaking up the calm atmosphere. Now this really is the perfect spot for people-watching. 

5. Church of St Michael the Archangel

The Church of St Michael the Archangel is a striking landmark located at the end of Liberty Avenue and you cannot miss it. 

Also known as Soboras, this imposing Neo-Byzantine structure is hard to miss. The massive domes, intricate details and powerful presence make it a standout sight in the city, symbolising both Kaunas’ architectural diversity and its spiritual history.

6. Ride on the Aleksotas Hill Funicular

One of the most charming and unique experiences in Kaunas is taking a ride on the Aleksotas Hill Funicular. Built in 1935, this funicular is one of the oldest still-operating in Europe and it is a fun way to get to the top of the hill for a fantastic view of the city. I should warn you it is pretty smelly though!

The short ride costs only €1 and takes you up to Aleksotas Hill, where you are rewarded with panoramic views of Kaunas, the Old Town and the rivers. I love a good viewpoint, and standing atop the hill watching over the city was one of the highlights of my trip. 

While there is something delightful about riding a funicular, I would recommend walking down the hill instead. The hill isn’t steep, the path has wide steps and a handrail – and like I said it was a very smelly ride on the way up, so I simply couldn’t put myself through that again!

I will be the first to admit that this view won’t blow you away. If you have travelled to Vilnius, and have seen my recommendations of things to do there, then you will know it is hard to compare the two cities.

Vilnius would win hands down, but this is pretty nonetheless and one of the best things to do in Kaunas.

Read more: 25 Fascinating Things To Do in Vilnius Lithuania

7. Ride the Žaliakalnis funicular

There are two funiculars in Kaunas and the Žaliakalnis Funicular is the oldest functioning funicular here, dating back to 1931. It is also one of the lesser known things to do in Kaunas.

Again, I am sure that riding this wooden-car feels like stepping back in time and is an affordable, fun experience that provides a unique glimpse into Kaunas’ past.

At the top, you can explore the district and visit the nearby Christ’s Resurrection Basilica for some panoramic views of Kaunas from its rooftop. However, to me, the views looked better from Aleksotas Hill, so we opted to visit there instead. I would suggest you do the same unless you are all about the best vantage points.

8. Explore the Art at Kiemo Galerija

One of the most unique art in an unexpected place in Kaunas is Kiemo Galerija, or Yard Gallery as it is otherwise known. Tucked away in a seemingly unassuming courtyard, this open-air gallery is an evolving space where local artist Vytenis Jakas and the residents in that yard have all transformed the walls into canvases that tell the story of the neighbourhood.

This is not a traditional museum or art gallery. Instead, it is a living, breathing space where art intertwines with daily life and it is an unusual spot to explore.

As you walk through the courtyard, you’ll find a mix of portraits, graffiti and artistic homages to the people who lived there during different periods of time in Kaunas’ history. Including a rogue bathtub on a platform at the top of one of the tallest buildings there – don’t forget to look up!

This is an off-the-beaten-path gem that shouldn’t be missed.

9. Learn about Lithuanian History at the Ninth Fort

While Kaunas is a city of beauty and art, it also has a somber past. One of the most impactful places to learn about their history is at the Ninth Fort. 

The Ninth Fort is part of the Kaunas Fortress and was used as a prison during various periods of occupation, including during World War II when it became a site of horrific atrocities. 

It is now a well-preserved museum and operates as a memorial to those who perished during the Holocaust. If history is your vibe, you will want to add this to your list of the best things to do in Kaunas.

10. Get a Taste of Kaunas’ Food Scene

You can’t visit a city without trying its local cuisine, right? One of the highlights of my trip was indulging in traditional Lithuanian dishes. 

I adored cepelinai, Lithuania’s national dish which are potato dumplings stuffed with meat (or mushrooms in my case, for a vegetarian option) and served with a creamy mushroom sauce. 

I would also urge you to try šaltibarščiai, a vibrant pink cold beetroot soup. I know it sounds strange, I was skeptical too but it is surprisingly refreshing and pairs beautifully with a side of boiled new potatoes.

Read more: Guide To The Best Restaurants In Kaunas For Vegetarians

I also got to try surelis, a curd cheese snack coated in chocolate and some Lithuanian drinks including homemade kvass and Zalios Devynerios, a liqueur thanks to my friend Edita – all of which are a uniquely acquired taste!

11. Take a Day Trip to Pazaislis Monastery

Pazaislis Monastery is an architectural masterpiece that is just a short drive from Kaunas city centre. This Baroque-style monastery is surrounded by lush forests and overlooks the Kaunas Reservoir, offering a peaceful escape from the city. 

If you happen to visit during the summer, check out if there are any concerts or cultural events happening at the monastery. They often host performances in the summer and I can’t think of a more magical setting to experience live music.

12. Devil Museum

Without a doubt, one of the most interesting and unusual things to do in Kaunas is to visit its Devil Museum; the Žmuidzinavičius Museum.

Now, this is not your typical sightseeing activity, but it’s very quirky and seems like a pretty entertaining to explore. It’s also the only Devil Museum in the world, so if unusual places are your vibe, this is one not to be missed.

13. Book a walking tour

One of my favourite things to do on a European city break is to book a walking tour for my first day. This way you can familiarise yourself with your surroundings, learn a bit more about the place you are visiting while getting some insider information too.

While free tours are great, I would recommend paying for one in Kaunas. There was only one I could find before I visited and the organiser emailed the day before to say it has been cancelled as he was ill, which was a shame. It has also since been removed off the free tours site.

Instead, I would check out one of the walking tours in Kaunas here.

Like I said, you won’t run out of things to do in Kaunas if you decide to do a day trip to this fabulous city. Wandering around the charming streets stopping off for excellent coffees along the way was one of my highlights.

Things to do in Kaunas FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Kaunas, Lithuania..

How to get to Kaunas

Getting to Kaunas is pretty easy, thanks to its central location in Lithuania and excellent transport links. 

Kaunas has an international airport; Kaunas International Airport that serves several European destinations. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, a taxi or even hire a car to reach the city within 20 minutes. 

Kaunas is also well-connected to other Baltic countries and Poland in Eastern Europe by bus, making it an accessible destination for travellers exploring the this part of the world.  

How to get from Vilnius to Kaunas?

If you’re coming from Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, there are frequent buses and trains that connect the two cities, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours by train or around 2 hours by bus.  Both options are affordable, with buses and trains running several times a day.

We booked train tickets from Vilnius to Kaunas in advance online which was easy enough to do. They only cost us €22 each for a first class ticket at peak time in the morning. We did decide to slum it in economy, otherwise known as second class on LGT Link trains for €18 each on the way back though, and it was still great. 

Is Kaunas worth visiting?

Absolutely, yes! Kaunas offers a blend of history, culture, art and natural beauty. Whether you’re simply just looking for a lesser-known European destination to explore, Kaunas is sure to steal your heart – as it did mine.

It is unlike any other European city I have visited and provides a less crowded yet enriching alternative to Vilnius.

Can I take a day trip to Kaunas from Vilnius?

Yes, Kaunas is close enough for a day trip from Vilnius. However, I would recommend staying at least one night in Kaunas to fully experience the city and all it has to offer.

You can spend anywhere from a few hours to two days here and see everything there is to do in Kaunas at a leisurely pace.

How many days should I spend in Kaunas?

Honestly, I would say one day in Kaunas is ideal, though I would encourage you to spend at least one night in Kaunas and enjoy the city at a leisurely pace. It’s never fun running around ticking things off your list when travelling. I personally like to immerse myself in the culture and soak up the atmosphere.

2 days in Kaunas is ideal for exploring the main attractions, museums and enjoying the local food scene. If you plan to take day trips such as visiting Pazaislis Monastery, then you may want to extend your stay to 3 or 4 days.

Where to stay in Kaunas?

We stayed at the Moxy in the heart of the city centre which I cannot recommend enough.

Don’t be put off by their 3 star rating – if you have been here a while, you will know that this is an affordable luxury travel blog and I almost never stay in a hotel with less than 4 stars. I do sometimes make exceptions, and as this is one of the most affordable, highest rated hotels in Kaunas on TripAdvisor, I decided to go for it.

It was an excellent decision and I could immediately see why the Moxy is rated so highly!

Not only is the location just off Liberty Avenue perfection, the rooms are spacious, thoughtfully designed, well equipped and clean. The staff are very friendly and most importantly, the bed was extremely comfortable. I loved everything about our stay here and would recommend spending a night or two in Kaunas just to stay here!

The contemporary design flows throughout the hotel, from the lobby all the way through the rooms – and you know I am a sucker for a beautiful, quirky hotel stay at.

Is Kaunas a walkable city?

Absolutely yes. Kaunas is a very walkable city – particularly the Old Town and Laisvės Alėja, where many of the major attractions, cafes and shops are all within close proximity. 

Bolt, the taxi app is really affordable in Lithuania, so if you need to travel from the airport to any sights further out of the city centre, I would use that option as they don’t have any taxis you can hail on the street. Not that I noticed, anyway.

When is the best time to visit Kaunas?

Kaunas has a European climate with distinct seasons, making it an all year round destination depending on what your interests are. Each season has it’s own charm, though unsurprisingly, most people prefer the warm and sunny days of summer (July to September).

Spring and autumn are the quieter seasons to visit Kaunas and the mild temperatures make it pleasant enough to walk around. We went in September when the weather can be hit or miss with rain, but we were fortunate to have been blessed with great weather during our time here.

I imagine the Christmas season in Kaunas is also magical with its markets and twinkling lights, particularly if you are lucky enough to have snow during your time here.

Is Kaunas safe for tourists?

Kaunas is generally very safe for tourists. It feels so much safer than London, just to give you a comparison. 

As with any destination though, it’s always a good idea to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night. 

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