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Kaunas - Wikitravel
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Kaunas[2] is the second biggest city in the center of Lithuania and is referred to by many as the Pearl of the Baltics. Since 2015 Kaunas is approved as a UNESCO Design City. It is a creative city with sustainable development and cooperation between similar types of cities.
Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania. For a time, it acted as a temporary capital, benefiting from investment and status.
Between the 4th and 5th century BC at the confluence of the two largest Lithuanian rivers, the settlement was established. In the 14th century, a castle was built here. It is considered to be one of the oldest stone castles in Lithuania.
Kaunas was first mentioned in written Teutonic Knights sources in 1361 when Knights captured the town and destroyed the Kaunas Castle in 1362. Castle was rebuilt at the beginning of the 15th century.
In 1408 Vytautas the Great granted the rights of the Magdeburg to Kaunas. While being located at the intersection of the trade routes and a river port Kaunas it has become one of the major trade centers in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and joined the Hanseatic League in 1441. By the 15th century, Kaunas was one of the best-formed towns in the whole country.
The people of Kaunas are used to any weather and life goes on with great efficiency. Museums have cloakrooms, everywhere is well heated and draft-proofed, supermarkets have lockers to leave your coats, hats, scarves, gloves, sleds, and so on, and nobody minds you sipping vodka from a 200 ml bottle to keep your insides warm. You will notice that some couples had attached padlocks to the bridge with their names scratched or painted on - a custom one may have observed elsewhere in Eastern Europe. The gist is pretty clear and the bridge to the park is an ideal location to continue. Go for the ones with the longest hasp (loop) as the bars of the bridge are really thick. Failing that attach yours to one that is already there! Take note, that Lithuanian phrasebook is very useful while in Kaunas or other sites of Lithuania.
The best time to visit Kaunas is from early May to late August. July has the highest mean temperature, 16.0 °C (63.0 °F). Most of Kaunas‘s annual events are held during spring and summer time. The rainy season often starts July, yet at the same time rains are short in time. Winter can be sometimes stinging cold, with short daylight hours.
Overall, Kaunas has a milder climate when compared with any major city in Lithuania. Kaunas gets fewer windy and rainy days than Klaipeda, and less frosts in winter, than Vilnius.
Landing at KUN (airport runway is on the left outside the picture), Ramučiai village is in the middle. A road branch to the left is a shortcut to the A1 motorway if going to Vilnius.
Kaunas international airport[3], (IATA: KUN, ICAO: EYKA) can accommodate planes of practically all types, though recently it is served exclusively by the largest low cost airline in EuropeRyanair[4]. The airport is located 14km /8 miles (~25-30min drive) from the Kaunas downtown and directly linked to the A6/E262 (Kaunas-Daugavpils) highway, which borders the airport's northern boundaries and meets up with A1/E85 motorway at the Murava junction about 7km south from the airport.
A new modern terminal for passengers was opened in March 2008, the airport itself has been substantially renewed, and the works were completed in Nov 2010. There are some vendors in the terminal building, including a restaurant, bars, and duty-free shops, as well as car rentals. Travel agency, currency exchange, and ATM services are also available. The airport has 3 parking lots with ~1000 parking spaces offering short- and long-term parking.
From the airport a municipality bus #29 - found right outside - takes you into the center of Kaunas, going by route: Kaunas Airport - Karmėlava town - (arrives in Kaunas city) - Savanorių Av - Old Town - Central Bus Station - Central Train Station. Tickets for €1 are available from the driver. The bus timetable is fitted to the flight schedule as much as possible. Kaunas City bus timetable[5].
Also, there are two regular routes by shuttle bus[6] from Kaunas airport to Vilnius and Klaipėda. There is a taxi stand in front of the airport. Some Kaunas' hotels offer a shuttle to/from the Kaunas airport.
At the Kaunas Railway Station (Kauno geležinkelio stotis), M.K. Čiurlionio St 16, phone +370 700 55111, there are lockers next to the ticket office, a tourist office, an ATM and a small café. There are many trains from Vilnius to Kaunas. If traveling from Klaipėda by train to Kaunas, you must make a stop at Kaišiadorys, and wait for another train running from Vilnius or travel up to Jonava and take a short ride by bus to Kaunas directly. Currently, there is no smooth train connection between Klaipėda and Kaunas, and the railway line between Kaunas and Jonava is inoperative. There is a train to Poland with a "technical" change at the border stop Šeštokai (connection always wait). Czech-made Double-deck electric trains, alongside older ones, go from Vilnius to Kaunas, and vice versa.
Kaunas is served by a number of major Baltic freeways. The international road Via BalticaE67 (connecting Warsaw, to Tallinn) crosses Kaunas at western suburbs Akademija and Šilainiai just after about 70km (45 miles) from the Lithuanian-Poland border. It is the most important road connection between the Baltic states. Via Baltica also serves as the Western bypass of Kaunas city.
The 311km motorway A1 connects Kaunas with the Baltic seaside in the west (Klaipėda seaport and Palanga resort), and capital Vilnius in the east, with further extension to Minsk, Belarus, via the A2 highway.
Intercity buses serve section Kaunas-Vilnius every 30-60 min.
Another important highway A6/E262 that stretches NE and passes the air port, links Kaunas with Jonava, Ukmergė, Utena, and Daugavpils (Latvia).
Upper floor of the double-decker EMU EJ 575, Czech made market. Note that double-deckers are serving exclusively Vilnius-Kaunas-Vilnius route, so if you're traveling elsewhere adjust your expectations accordingly.
Kaunas Bus Station (Kauno Autobusų Stotis) is situated at 5min walk from the train station, address Vytauto pr. 24, LT-44355 Kaunas. Kaunas Bus Station has been fully reconstructed and reopened at the beginning of 2017.
Bus companies:
Kautra[7] (Kaunas Transport) - one of the major bus companies in Lithuania. It serves many intercities and suburban routes within the country. Kautra uses various types of buses with their green-and-yellow logo. Also, Kautra is a representative of Eurolines which specializes in serving transnational routes: you can buy the ticket only to some other country but not to some other town within Lithuania.
Most Kautra buses have compartments for bicycles, however, different bus models have compartments of different capacities, so the bigger bicycles for an additional fee. You can buy a ticket to your desired destination and your bicycle will be delivered by the next scheduled bus with capable compartment; as the bus arrives closer to your destination you are informed with the SMS to your cell phone, you have then to meet the bus at the stop and pick your bicycle. On timetables[8], buses with bicycle compartments are marked with the bicycle icon.
ECOLINES[9] - a company that specializes in transnational routes in Europe with priority Baltic States and their vicinity. Ticket office in Kaunas, address: Vytauto Av 23 (across the street from original Kaunas bus station which currently is under the reconstruction). Ecolines use bright yellow double-decker buses equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, chemical WC, 220V electric sockets.
Eurolines[10] - another company that specializes in transnational routes in Europe, a competitor of Ecolines. Has a ticket office within the premises of Kaunas Bus Station (due to the reconstruction, temporarily relocated to the site near Akropolis mall, address: Karaliaus Mindaugo Av 49). Eurolines use standard white color double-decker buses.
Ollex[11] - domestic bus company that specializes in express transfers from Kaunas Airport directly to the capital Vilnius, seaport Klaipėda, also serves the transnational route between Klaipėda and Riga. Has several ticket sales points in Kaunas: at both Ecolines and Eurolines ticket offices, at both Akropolis and Mega malls, and at several travel agencies. Journeys from and to the airport should be booked as soon as possible because demand is high and service is convenient.
Lithuania's seaport is Klaipėda on the Baltic sea coast. From there one can rent a car or take a bus to get to Kaunas, which is about 210km (130 miles) inland.
Kaunas has well developed public transport system. There are about 17 trolleybus routes and about 50 bus routes within the city limits. The number of routes slightly varies with time. Bus and trolleybus tickets are bought from the driver for cash.
The Kaunas Public Transport[12] site offers useful information of the bus and trolleybus routes. Since 2007 electronic tickets were introduced for public transport in Kaunas. Single bus or trolleybus tickets can be purchased from drivers. You must purchase a ticket immediately after boarding the vehicle.
Electronic ticket price for one journey up to 30min (with the possibility to change) is ~€0.60, while the paper ticket bought from the driver costs ~€0.80 but is valid for 1 "timeless" ride up to the route end (without possibility to change, if you change the bus you have to buy another ticket). Tickets purchased from the driver are already valid and time-stamped, no additional validation or stamping is needed.
E-ticket prices: e-ticket card price containing e-tickets (you are not allowed to purchase empty card) - €1.74; e-ticket for 1 ride up to 30min - €0.58; 3-days e-ticket - €4.70; 7-days e-ticket - €8.40. This applies to both buses and trolleybuses. Activation of the 3 or 7-day e-tickets is done by pressing the validator's button No 2 and approaching the e-ticket card to the validator. E-ticket is valid from the moment of its activation.
Each public transport stop in the downtown area is equipped with Kaunas public transport maps and electronic scoreboards.
There is a network of 8 routes of minibusses in Kaunas. Shuttle (minibus) service charges €0.90 per journey. For a journey one should pay in cash at the moment of boarding and travel till necessary, i.e. just say "stop, please".
Taxi prices vary from €0.60 to €0.75 per kilometer. For traveling by taxi, it is advisable to order one by phone or through a taxi app because hailing a cab on the street is not customary. In the evening and at night, the prices might be higher due to demand.
Reputable taxi companies are:
Žaibiškas greitis[13] - established in 1992 and owned largest taxi fleet in Kaunas; tel.+370 37 333-111; mobile +370 620 33333 (Omnitel; short No 1422); +370 640 33333 (Bitė GSM); +370 670 33333 (Tele2).
Taxi Kaunas[14] - all taxi services available; tel. +370 37 202-020; mobile +370 682 02020, +370 601 14411.
Taksi greičiau - tel. +370 37 733-337, mobile (with prepaid card "Pildyk") +370 672 20990.
Driving a car in Kaunas is easy if comply with traffic regulations. Admittedly, the central part of Kaunas city is heavily affected by intensive traffic flows.
Drivers must have a valid driving license and vehicle registration document, insurance (a green card is valid in Lithuania). Renting a car for at least 24 hours in Kaunas is effortless. There are some international car rental companies which have their offices in Kaunas airport, and which names you probably already heard: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Trusticar, and there are many domestic companies which offer a wide range of cars (from used to new) at quite an attractive price, however, you probably never heard their names at your home Auto Banga, Auto Grupė, Aviaeuropa, NeoRent. All of these companies have offices at Kaunas airport.
Parking in Kaunas Red zone
Parking in central Kaunas, including the Old Town area, is paid. Central Kaunas is divided into four zones with different parking fee - yellow (€1.20/h, €0.60/30min, and 2 more options), red (€0.90/h, €0.30/20min, and 1 more option), blue (€0.60/h; €0.30/30min), and green (€0.30/h). The entire Old Town area is "blue", except for the Town Hall square which is "yellow". All parking ticket machines are equipped with card readers for city chip cards, and some of them accept coins.
Also, one may pay for parking with a special 1 or 2-hour parking card or by sending special SMS to number 1332 and receiving the confirmation - if have local mobile provider Telia, Bite, or Tele2 card on the phone. A special sticker on the windscreen of the car to indicate that SMS payment can be used is required. A parking ticket or parking card must be clearly visible to be valid. Chip cards or parking cards are available in newsstands, in the Parking in Kaunas company office, Gedimino St 45, or at dressed in green parking controllers. Every one is liable to an excess charge if park beyond the selected parking period. An excess period is 15 minutes.
The website of public institution Kaunas Parking Sites[15] may be useful for checking up-to-date numerical values of the fees in different zones. Links to graphical images (maps) and street addresses may be useful too.
There are more than 50km (30 miles) of bicycle paths in Kaunas and the number of available paths is increasing each year. The Eurovelo international route goes through the city.
Bicycle rentals: Dviračių rūsys(Bicycle Cellar)[16] (Miško St 30), within premises of Babilonas[17] hotel (Žalioji St 38A).
Some recreational water tourism routes operate east of the city in Kaunas Reservoir (Kauno marios), and on ~20km Nemunas River stretches west of the city. Tours operate during the warm season, usually are organized for groups, and must be booked in advance. In some cases and depending on demand some tours may be organized every day from the Old Dock (Senoji prieplauka) and the trip participants are accepted without booking.
Remains of Kaunas Castle built in the 14th century: note a reconstructed part of a tower (2011) which is intentionally designed to distinguish authenticity from new masonry.
Four eras of Kaunas history: Kaunas State Musical Theatre, built-in 1891 during Russian Empire era, rebuilt in 1933 in Neo-baroque style during times of interwar Lithuanian Republic; Miller Tower, a part of a defensive wall built during the era of Grand Duchy of Lithuania in 1610; modern luxury apartment building Arno vila completed in 2008; and a public garden featuring monuments of Lithuanian composers, erected during interwar and soviet (post-war) times
Kaunas modernist architecture or Kaunas architecture of the Interwar period. In 2023, Kaunas modernist architecture was recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The largest concentration of modernist buildings is in the districts of Naujamiestis and Zaliakalnis. Buildings reflecting this style are Kaunas Officers' Club, the Central Post Office, Christ's Resurrection Church, Vytautas the Great War Museum, and others. In total, 12 thousand houses were built in Kaunas during this period.
Also, Kaunas has several districts and sites interesting for tourists. The Old Town is the area mostly built between the 14th and 17th centuries, resembling buildings in Gothic, Renaissance, and, Baroque architecture. Open spaces, parks, and several places of interest are located compactly in New Town as well as some different locations. Kaunas boasts around 40 different museums of art, nature, literature, history, science, and sports as well as historical and memorial museums.
Benedictine Church of Saint Nicholas, Benediktiniu St. 8, Kaunas. The church is a fine example of a 15th-century Gothic sacral building that is only with an asymmetric layout in Lithuania. The church and convent complex is on Benediktiniu St. in the northeast part of Kaunas Old Town. It is reachable on foot by crossing busy Saukliu St. from Kaunas castle side.
Church of Holy Trinity, Rotuses sq. 22, Kaunas. The Bernardine convent's church was built in 1624-1634. It is of late Renaissance style with a Gothic tradition. At the moment, it is used for the needs of Kaunas Priest Seminary.
Church of Vytautas the Great, Aleksoto str.3, Kaunas. It is officially named the Church of Taking Holy Virgin Mary into the Heaven and is the oldest one in Kaunas, one of the first Gothic brick buildings built-in 1400 in Kaunas on the bank of the Nemunas river. The church belonged to Franciscan monks. During the Napoleonic Wars, it was turned into a war ammunition warehouse.
City Hall Square - the main square of the Old Town is the place for Kaunas City Hall and the surrounding buildings with lots of restaurants, bars, coffee-houses, museums, art galleries, and, hotels nearby.
Communications History Museum, Rotuses sq. 19, Kaunas 44279. The museum houses the collection of unique and still working exhibits and offers visitors to familiarize themselves with the history of the development of posts, as well as other means of communications. A visitor himself may test the operation of some telegraph devices or in the courtyard take a look at the remnants of an old bronze melting furnace. The museum is set in the 16th century two brick granaries to stack exported grain. In the 19th century, buildings have been set up as horse postal stations. Open: We-Su 10:00-18:00.
The Historical Presidential Palace
Evangelic Luteran Church - Karaliaus Mindaugo av. 3; a small church located on the right bank of the Nemunas river in the so-called Germans quarter of the Old Town is in Baroque and Romanticism styles. The church was built in 1682 - 1683.
Historical Presidential Palace, Vilniaus St. 33, Kaunas, [18]. Former Palace houses objects, which relate to the presidential institution of the First Republic of Lithuania (1918–1940). Representational portraits, artworks from the interiors of the Presidential Palace are exhibited here. Also, it displays presents received by presidents, authentic furniture. In the garden of the Palace, 3 the Interbellum period Presidents of Lithuania face the visitors. Working hours: Tu–Su 11:00–17:00.
Jewellery (Gemmology) Museum, L. Zamenhofo str./Kurpių St. 13, Kaunas, [19].It is located between the Nemunas river and the main Vilniaus street of the Old Town, small private museum attracts visitors with rare minerals, precious stones exposition from different locations of the world. Quality certificates of precious stones and gems are issued there. Open: Mo-Fr 10:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-16:00.
Kaunas Arch-cathedral Basilica, Vilniaus St. 1, Kaunas, [20]. It is 84 m long and 34 m wide is the largest Gothic (with Renaissance and Baroque elements inside) church in Lithuania. First, it was mentioned in writing sources in 1413. The tomb of poet Maironis was constructed in the southern wall of the cathedral in the 1930s.
Kaunas Castle, Papilio St 17, Kaunas, [21]. Kaunas Castle was built in the middle of the 14th century and is the oldest building in Kaunas. Today the round tower of Kaunas Castle houses an art gallery. Nearby Kaunas castle a nice Santakos park is set at the confluence of the two largest rivers of Lithuania Nemunas and Neris.
Kaunas City Hall, Rotuses sq. 15, Kaunas, [22]. It was built in the middle of the 16th century, at the time when Kaunas was a flourishing city of merchants, City Hall is a nice example of renaissance architecture in Kaunas. It is unofficially called The White Swan. In 1836 the City Hall was reconstructed and the residence for Russian czars was made there. The Wedding Hall (marriage registration office) was opened in the ground and first floor of City hall in 1973. The cellars are used by the Kaunas Ceramics museum. The museum collection consists of various archaeological findings from the Old Town and the surroundings of Kaunas. The collection contains craftsmen-made crockery, tile stove ornaments as well as roof tiles of impressive size. Also, the exposition reflects the lifestyle of the townsmen of the time. Open Tu-Su 11:00-17:00.
Kaunas Medicine and Pharmacy Museum, Rotuses sq. 28, Kaunas, [23]. Houses a huge collection of skulls, herbs, medicine articles, and, other stuff of older times. Open 10:00-19:00 daily. Mon. closed. Excursions in English are available.
Maironis Museum of Lithuania Literature, Rotuses sq. 13, Kaunas, [24]. The museum is located in the Baroque palace, has been arranged as a memorial home of famous Lithuanian poet and priest Maironis. The museum houses a huge collection of books, manuscripts, artworks, and memorial items. Working hours: Tu-Sa 9:00-17:00.
Napoleon's House, Muitines St. 8, Kaunas. The brick building of the 16th century is famous for the fact that in June of 1812, the Emperor of France Napoleon resided there. Later the building was named after its distinguished guest. The restored eastern annex of the Napoleon house has a beautiful staircase, an example of a rare in Lithuania architectural style, Fachverk. It is thought that this rare staircase is the heritage of the Germans who significantly contributed to the formation of the area. Nowadays Napoleon‘s house, as well as a former Renaissance consistory of a Lutheran church, and other buildings of the area near the Nemunas river, houses Vilnius University Kaunas Faculty of Humanities.
Perkunas' House, Aleksoto St. 6, Kaunas, [25]. It is one of the most beautiful secular so-called "flaming" Gothic buildings (House of Thunder) in Lithuania. At the moment, the building belongs to the Jesuits order, and a small museum of Lithuanian and Polish poet Adomas Mickevicius (Adam Mickewicz) is opened inside.
St. Gertrude church
St. Francis Xavier Church, Rotuses sq. 9, Kaunas, [26]. The construction of the late baroque Jesuit church was begun in the second half of the 17th century but finished only in 1720. At the same time, Jesuits' residence served as the central school of the Kaunas region. Famous Lithuanian and Polish poet Adomas Mickevičius (Adam Mickiewicz) worked as a teacher there between 1819 and 1823. The church was transferred to the Orthodox Alexander Nevsky’s Cathedral in 1843. The church and school were returned to Jesuits in 1923. The church was closed during the Soviet occupation and reopened in 1990. Sacral music concerts are organized in the church.
St. George Church and Bernardine Monastery, Papilio St. 7, Kaunas. It is located near Kaunas Castle, church's Gothic walls have survived despite frequent fires. The church and a monastery built in the 15th century are Gothic monuments with unique façades. The interior features a number of valuable Renaissance and Gothic elements.
St. Gertrude Church, Laisves aleja 101A, Kaunas. The church was built in the late 15th century. It is a small sacral building in the outskirts of the Old Town in one of the courtyards, a national architectural monument of the Gothic style.
Vytautas' Bridge connects the Old Town and Aleksotas district. The original bridge on the wooden poles was built in 1812. It was used by Napoleon’s Army fleeing from Russia. At the beginning of the 19th century, Aleksotas district belonged to Poland, while other parts of Kaunas on the right bank of the Nemunas river were then part of the Russian Northwestern region where different calendars were used. It's for the joke, the bridge was called the longest bridge in the world: the Slavic (Julian) calendar was used in the province of Kaunas, whereas the Aleksotas region used the Catholic (Gregorian) calendar; therefore, it took 13 days to cross the bridge (the old calendar was 13 days behind the new one).
Kaunas Vytis monument
Vytis Monument - Warrior of Freedom (Vyčio paminklas "Laisvės Karys"). Vytis features the armored rider with a sword and shield. It is situated opposite Kaunas Castle. Vytis is one of the most popular symbols of the state. It can be seen not only by flying flags but also by proudly traveling on the cars, clothing, accessories, or other visible places and objects. The coat of arms with Vytis is considered one of the oldest coats of arms in Europe.
Wax Melting Furnace is the unique exposure of 15th-century wax melting stove near the Tower entrance of the City Hall was opened in 2002. The furnace exposure shows the wax melting process. Kaunas was an important center of wax trade in the Middle Ages. So-called wax stones (each of which 16 kg/35 lb weight) were melted in 9 stoves of Kaunas and later stamped with a Coat of Arms of Kaunas for export to Western Europe.
Kaunas Downtown area is compact so everyone is able to stroll around on foot and take some photos. Be prepared for a great variety of sculptures on display in the public areas of Kaunas. Kaunas Old Town ends at the remnants of the former Kaunas City wall near the garden of the Musical Theatre.
The Bank of Lithuania
Bank of Lithuania - Maironio str.25; the branch of Lithuania National bank in Kaunas. It was built in 1928 as a new Central Bank building. There is a small exhibition of Lithuanian banknotes and coins of the First Republic time inside. The very impressive architecture of neoclassicism style. One may purchase Lithuanian collector coins there.
Carillion - Kaunas 35 bell Carillon in the tower of Vytautas the Great War Museum was completed in Belgium in 1935. The bell music from the tower started to ring in 1937. Kaunas carillon was restored by Royal Eijsbouts bell foundry in Netherlands in 2006. After the restoration, Kaunas carillon has 49 bells and a new keyboard. Every day the Lithuanian folk melody of wartime is being played automatically in the middle of the day. Carillon concerts are performed every Saturday and Sunday at 16:00 in the Garden of Vytautas the Great Military Museum, K.Donelaicio 64, Kaunas.
Devils' Museum,[27] - V. Putvinskio str.64. Contains the Lithuanian artist' A. Zmuidzinavicius collection of sculptures and carvings of devils, and a unique collection of devils from the whole world. Tel: + 370 37 221 587' Open Tu-Su 11:00–17:00, Thu 11:00–19:00.
Romas Kalanta
A high school student, Romas Kalanta is well known for his public first self-immolation protesting the Soviet occupation of Lithuania. He was religious, and at the same time attended an evening school while working at the factory. His sympathies with the hippie movement were later exploited by the Soviets to discredit R. Kalanta among the population. On May 14, 1972, he poured 3 liters of gasoline on himself and set himself on fire in the square adjoining the Laisvės Alėja in front of the Kaunas Musical Theatre. R. Kalanta's death provoked the largest post-war riots in Lithuania. On May 18 and 19, 1972 high school students and young workers broke into a politically-charged riot and marched along the Laisvės Alėja, which was forcibly dispersed by the KGB. Demonstrations spread to other cities and reacted as well. R. Kalanta became a symbol of the Lithuanian resistance throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Field of Victims - the memorial in Laisvės alėja near the garden of the Musical theatre was unveiled on 14 May 2002. It was dedicated to Romas Kalanta, who burned down in protest of Soviet oppression on 14 May 1972.
Freedom monument (Laisvės Statula), Vytautas the Great War Museum garden K. Donelaicio St. 64, Kaunas 44249 (before K. Donelaicio St. 75). The symbol of Lithuanian statehood was built in 1928, destroyed, and rebuilt in 1989.
Žaliakalnis funicular
Funiculars - There are two still functioning funiculars in Kaunas. The Žaliakalnis Funicular on V. Putvinskio street is an electrically operated funicular railway. The oldest funicular in Lithuania and one of the oldest in Europe. It was constructed by AEG and began operating on 5 August 1931. The funicular has wood-paneled coachwork and is serviced by an English-speaking operator in uniform. It climbs the 75 m up from behind the Vytautas the Great War Museum to the Church of the Resurrection for some of the best views in Kaunas. Another is Aleksotas Funicular, built-in 1935, near Aleksotas (or Vytautas) bridge, that connects the Old Town with Aleksotas district, and takes people up to Aleksotas hill. One of the best viewpoints for Kaunas downtown. Funicular operates only during the summer season 7:00-19:00.
Kaunas M. Žilinskas Picture Gallery Nepriklausomybes sq.12; Contemporary building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja, near the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Gallery houses a collection of fine and applied art from around the globe. One exposition is dedicated to Man and Woman. There are Ancient Egyptian amulets, Roman glassware, Ming vases, old tapestries, and 17th -20th century European Works of Applied Art donated by collector Mykolas Žilinskas. The gallery houses the Contemporary Art Information Center, and the best movies are shown on a large screen at the Galerijos Kinas. Right outside the gallery stands a statue of a naked man - a place for youth meetings and artistic performances. Open June-September Tu-Su 10:00-17:00, October-May 11:00-17:00.
Kaunas Officers' Club - A. Mickevičiaus St. 19. One of the finest examples of Kaunas Interbellum architecture (Karininkų Ramovė in Lithuanian), especially from the inside, was built-in 1937. The main facade is adorned by the granite sculpture Three Giants which became a symbol of the Club. On the main - second floor of the building the Grand Hall, as well as the Hall of Vytautas, the so-called Hall of Dukes, and the Hall of the President are located. Each hall is decorated in different styles (gothic, classic, and national style respectively) with unique chandeliers, paintings, frescoes, furniture, and stained glasses. Good quality cuisine pizzeria is situated on the first floor of the club.
Kaunas Orthodox Cathedral - Vytauto av. 38. Orthodox the Annunciation Cathedral, as well as a smaller Orthodox church located nearby, forms a unanimous complex in the southern part of Ramybes park near Vytauto avenue. The new Orthodox Cathedral was built in 1935 and represents the variety of consequences of traditional forms of Russian Orthodox churches. Smaller - Holy Resurrection Orthodox church was constructed in 1862 in the area of the local Orthodox cemetery and from 1923 till 1935 acted as Lithuanian Orthodox Cathedral. Entrance free.
Kaunas Picture Gallery - K. Donelaicio str.16. Visual art platforms of Lithuanian and foreign artists and communities are organized here. There is Takao Iijima (Ay-O)[28] dedicated cabinet (Black Hole) to Jurgis Mačiūnas (Fluxus group). Open Tu-W, F-Su 10:00–18:00, Th 11:00–19:00.
Kaunas railway tunnel. Recently renovated 1.3km (0.8 miles) long Kaunas railway tunnel was built between 1859 and 1861 near Kaunas central railway station and is worth attention for tourists. It started operations earlier than Underground of London. A restored steam engine stands at the western entrance of the Kaunas railway tunnel.
Laisvės Alėja in Kaunas
Laisvės alėja – It is Kauna's most famous walking street fully pedestrianized and runs from the Old Town for a distance of almost 2 km to the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Two lines of linden trees, seating, and flower beds run the length of the avenue. There are many shops, banks, supermarkets, restaurants, a cinema, casinos, nightclubs, museums, a tourist information office, places to stay, and a central post office. It is always clean and snow-free (in the winter) with great efficiency and is a great place to spend time. In the late morning and afternoon, various stalls selling foods, souvenirs hats, etc. appear and are worth a look.
M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum - V. Putvinskio St. 55, Kaunas, [29], Open October – May: Tu – Su 11:00–17:00. June – September: Tu–Su 10:00–17:00. Museum collects, keeps, investigates, and popularizes Lithuanian most famous artist and composer M. K. Čiurlionis' (1875–1911) creative works, the cultural heritage of Lithuania, and the world. Some art critics call M. K. Ciurlionis the pioneer of abstract art. His creations combine symbolism, secession, abstractionism, and romanticism.
Kaunas mosque in winter.
Mosque[30] - Totorių St 3. The only Lithuania Eastern-style building and mosque of bricks is located in the northern corner of the Ramybė Park of Kaunas downtown. It was rebuilt in bricks in 1930 by the Kaunas Tatar Society[31], in commemoration of Vytautas the Great 500th anniversary of his death.
Museum of Deportation and Resistance - Vytauto av. 46. One of five divisions of Kaunas City Museum. Resistance and Deportation Exhibition is sacred to the memory of victims of the Soviet regime and the Forest Brothers who fought for the Freedom of Lithuania. The museum is set in the western part of Ramybes park. Entrance and excursion guides are free of charge. Tel.: + 370 37 323-179. Open Tu-Fr 10:00-16:00.
Nemunas Island Park (Nemuno salos parkas), accessed across a footbridge at the southern end of S. Daukanto pedestrian street and is on the development stage. The main structure is the largest indoor multifunctional arena in the Baltic states on the eastern part of the island Žalgiris Arena, built-in 2011 [32] is used to host sports games as well as concerts. At the same, this huge open space frees from the bustle of Laisves Aleja. Also, it is a great place to sled when there is snow and of course, the place to leave your padlocks.
St. Michael the Archangel's Church, Nepriklausomybės a. 14, Kaunas 44320. The beautiful domed building of neo-Byzantine style building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja. It started its history at the end of the 19th century of being arranged here as a cathedral (sobor Russian word). In 1919 it was transformed into a Catholic church, in the Soviet era there was a Stained Glass and Sculpture Gallery, and after the restoration of independence, it became the church again. The museum for the Blinds called „21st Century Catacombs“ is installed in the basements of the church where exposition is based on the sensory experience. Ask at the sacristy (right of the main altar) for the entrance in and they will let you in for free. Be prepared the descend a spiral staircase into the total darkness. There is appreciated a donation to the church afterward into one of the boxes scattered around.
Synagogue - E. Ožeskienes St. 13. Kaunas Choral Synagogue, located near the western end of Laisvės aleja, is one of two remaining Jewish houses of prayer in Lithuania. It was built in 1872 in the reformist decorative style of synagogues of that time. The facade of the synagogue is reminiscent of a neo-baroque church. Its dome was rebuilt several years ago. There is an exposition of rabbis' paintings on the second floor of the Synagogue.
Zoological museum
Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum[33] - Laisves aleja, 106. It houses a collection of thousands of stuffed and preserved animals. In winter make use of the cloakroom to the left of the main hall on the ground floor as the museum is well heated. Arranged over several floors the collection ranges from full-grown giraffes and wisents to butterflies and is well worth an hour or two of your time. Open 11:00-19:00 daily. Mo - closed.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal flame - both in the square in front of Vytautas the Great Museum with the statues of Lithuanian national renaissance figures and there are located. It was the main square where Lithuanian national holidays were celebrated during the period when Kaunas had been the temporary capital of Lithuania.
Vytautas' Monument - located on Laisvės alėja, near the Kaunas city municipality building. The monument to Vytautas the Great was the most famous ruler of medieval Lithuania was erected in 1930. It was demolished by the Soviets and then re-erected in 1990.
Vytautas the Great War Museum
Vytautas the Great War Museum - K. Donelaicio St. 64, [34]. An interactive exposition of the history of Kaunas from prehistoric times to the present day. It houses an immense collection of weapons through the ages from medieval arbalests and suits of armor to guns of World War II. The highlight is the complete, but tragic remains of the plane Lituanica in which S. Darius and S. Girenas crossed the Atlantic in 1933. The crypt For Those Who Died for the Freedom of Lithuania is available to visit beneath the floor of the Museum. Open Tu-Su 11:00-17:30.
Wall art. If you walk the streets of Kaunas like Jonavos, Nemuno, or Ozeskienes, you will probably notice great drawings on the walls. In order to color the city and public spaces, professional artists presented Kaunas the large-format drawings on the walls of buildings.
9th Fort Museum[35] - Žemaičių av. 73; located in a park on the western outskirts of Kaunas. Museum offers expositions of Soviet terror and deportation of Lithuanians to Soviet camps and Siberia, Kaunas' Stronghold and 9th Fort, Massacre of Jewish people in Lithuania in 1941–1944, Prison-breaking of 64 prisoners from 9th Fort, and others. Dungeon and defense wall (about 1 km long), guns and ammunition of 1st and 2nd World Wars of 9th Fort are a separate itinerary of an excursion. One of the highlights - holocaust memorial of 105 feet (32 meters) high to the victims of fascism at the Ninth Fort was erected in 1984. Open: April-October Tu-Su 10:00-18:00; November - March, We-Sun 10:00- 16:00. Guided tours are available.
Rooftop observation deck of the Christ's Resurrection Church
Ažuolynas Park - named after the old Oak-wood tree park, it is in Žaliakalnis residential district easily reachable from the downtown area by staircases or buses #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaičio str.) or #38,43 (from Vytauto av.). The park is one of the most popular places among locals to stroll and athletes to run. At the western part of the Ažuolynas park, the monument to famous Lithuanian aviators S. Darius and S. Girenas stands. They made a significant flight in the history of world aviation on July 15, 1933. Their research aircraft that crossed the Atlantic, crashed under mysterious circumstances on the way back to their homeland. At the eastern part of the park, the Kaunas Zoo entrance is set.
Christ's Resurrection Church[36], follow V. Putvinskio street from the Devil Museum or walk up behind the War Museum and turn right to find the Žaliakalnis Funicular Railway. This takes you up to the Resurrection Church. The door on the right-hand side of the church (as you face it) takes you in and from 12:00 you can climb the stairs or take the lift to the terrace at the top. Spectacular views of Kaunas and beyond. The church itself is also open to visitors.
House of Sugihara Vaižgantas St 30. The memorial exhibition located in a quiet residential area of Žaliakalnis is functioning in the building where before World War II, the Japanese consulate's vice-consul Chiune Sugihara resided. In 1940 he handed out Japanese transit visas to Jews from Lithuania, Poland, and other countries. It saved about 6,000 people from Holocaust.
Kaunas Botanical Garden[37]- Z. E. Zilibero St. 6; the Garden is one of the most beautiful sites of nature in Kaunas comprises an area of 62.5 hectares with greenhouses founded in 1923. The labyrinths, little zoo, mythological track, and car parking are also attainable at the Garden.
Kaunas Fortress[38] - built between 1882 and 1915, it was designated a "first-class" fortress in Russian Empire in 1887. On the eve of WWI, the city of Kaunas was surrounded by 9 forts, including batteries and other defensive fortifications. The fortress was battle-tested in 1915 when Germany attacked the Russian Empire and withstood eleven days of assault before capture. The Ninth Fort of the Fortress houses a museum and memorial devoted to the victims of World War II mass executions. The Seventh Fort is also open to visitors, Archyvo str.61, Kaunas, [39].
Kaunas Lagoon Regional Park, [40]. The Pažaislis monastery is situated at the peninsula of Kaunas Reservoir - the largest Lithuanian artificial lake, created in 1959 by damming the Nemunas river near Kaunas and Rumšiškės town. Kaunas Reservoir supports the operations of the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant. The reservoir also supports the operations of a large Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant, which is situated near the confluence of Kaunas Reservoir with the small Strėva river, a distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.
Lithuanian Zoo Park[41] - the only Zoo garden in Lithuania was established in a Ąžuolynas park, in which grow hundred-year-old oaks near the city center in 1938. It is made up of 11 sections and offers 6 classes of animals. Children may ride a pony, a donkey, or take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. It is closed for renovation until autumn 2023.
Lithuania's Museum of Aviation[42]- Veiveriu St 132. The museum is in the Aleksotas district, at the former S. Darius and S. Girėnas international airport of Kaunas. It is the oldest still-functioning for air sports and rescue reasons airport in Lithuania, established in 1915. The exposition explores the development of Lithuanian aviation, some flying apparatus, and the aviation signs of various countries. Visitors may test a real aviation simulator. Working hours: Tu-Sat 9:00-17:00. The museum is reachable from the city center bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.
Napoleon's Hill - actually the Jiesia river hill, located on the left bank of the Nemunas river, between the Panemune residential neighborhood and the so-called Green Railway bridge. Since the early 19th century it has been nicknamed Napoleon's hill. It is believed that from this hill in June 1812 Emperor of France Napoleon I watched his Grand Army crossing the Nemunas. The hill is accessible from the Kaunas castle by bus #25 or taxi.
Pazaislis Monastery and Church[43]. It is the largest monastery and church complex in Lithuania, located on the bank of Kaunas Reservoir is one of the most magnificent examples of Italian baroque architecture in Eastern Europe. Pažaislis monastery complex was built by Italian architects, whereas sculptors from Lombardy took care of the frescos and plaster casts. Pažaislis camaldolese monastery is open Tu-F 10:00-17:00, Sat 10:00-16:00.
There are some beaches on the banks of the Nemunas River, the shores of Lampedziai lake, and Kaunas Reservoir. Beaches are open in summertime.
Kaunas Reservoir Beach. It is situated on the shore of Pažaislis park near Pažaislis church and monastery ensemble. The water is almost the purest of all Kaunas beaches. Beach is reachable by car, taxi, or trolleybuses #9 or 12 (summertime only). Kaunas Reservoir is the largest Lithuanian artificial lake, created in 1959 by damming the Nemunas river near Kaunas and Rumsiskės. The reservoir supports the operations of the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant. The reservoir also supports the operations of Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant, which is situated near the confluence of the Reservoir with a small Strėva river, a distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.
Lampedziai Lake Beach. This beach is set in the western part of Kaunas. It is a small lake surrounded by Lampedziai park that attracts a lot of locals in the summertime. Beach is reachable by car, taxi, or bus #48 (runs from Kaunas castle bus stop) or #9 (runs from Silainiai residential district).
Panemunes Park Beach. It is in the loop of Nemunas river on the shore of the brilliant Panemune Park. The beach is easily reachable on foot if start from the shopping center "Molas" (K. Barsausko str.), you should go by A. ir J. Gravrogku St. and then by a pedestrian bridge across the Nemunas river or by car or taxi from the city center.
Kaunas is home to a variety of great shows and festivals[44].
Kaunas City Days
Akropolis Kaunas Grand Shopping Festival, Kaunas Akropolis shopping center. first decade of July. During the festival, great discounts apply to all goods in all stores of the shopping center.
Bike Show Millenium, [x]. in the middle of June. International auto-moto fan fiesta attracts a huge amount of bikers and their bikes
International Hansa Days, [x]. last decade of August. Kaunas is proud of being the only city in Lithuania that belongs to the international towns' union The New Hansa. Every year, Kaunas presents itself at the annual event introducing the heritage of cuisine, folk art, medieval music, and theatre.
International Modern Dance Festival, [x]. September - October. Dances created by foreign choreographers and groups combining the different art forms.
Kaunas City Days, [x]. 20 May and the closest weekend to this date. The annual event celebrated in Kaunas on May 20. Duke Kazimieras Jogailaitis confirmed and expanded the city's rights namely on this day in 1463.
Kaunas Jazz Festival, [x]. at the end of April or beginning of May. You will hear the most prominent Lithuanian and foreign jazz performers.
Kaziukas Fair, [x]. at the beginning of March. Very popular Folk arts and crafts fair
Operetta in Kaunas Castle, [x]. at the end of June and the beginning of July. The most beautiful works are performed by various European country singers, musicians, and orchestras.
Pažaislis Music festival, Pazaislis, [x]. May-August. The best performers in the world, classical early music.
Kaunas is known as a city of students. Some of Kaunas' universities, listed below, attract students from abroad for good quality, yet inexpensive studies.
Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius Academy of Arts (Vilniaus dailės akademijos Kauno fakultetas), Muitines St. 4, Kaunas, [x].
Kaunas University of Medicine (Lietuvos sveikatos mokslų universitetas), A. Mickeviciaus St. 9, Kaunas, [x].
Kaunas University of Technology, K. Donelaičio St. 73, Kaunas, [x]. the largest technical university in the Baltic States.
Lithuanian Sports University (Lietuvos sporto universitetas), Sporto St. 6, Kaunas, [x]. The only institution of tertiary physical education in Lithuania.
Vytautas Magnus University (Vytauto Didziojo universitetas), K. Donelaičio St. 58, Kaunas, [x]. Founded in 1922 as a national university, it is named after Vytautas the Great, the most famous 15th century Lithuanian ruler. University is one of the leading universities in Lithuania.
Ayurveda SPA Centre “Shanti” Kaunas, Laisvės al 3, Kaunas, ☎ +370 616 88777 ([email protected]), [x]. M-Su 10:00-21:00.
Juniper Valley Educational trail, [x]. As you walk along this educational trail, you can see wonderful panoramas of the Kaunas Lagoon, a unique juniper grove, which is why the trail is also called the Kadagiai Valley Trail. The trail was installed in 2010.
Physical Well-Being Centre (Fizinės gerovės centras), Utenos St 12/Kalniečių St 54, Kaunas (on a corner of 2 streets), ☎ +370 688 56671 ([email protected]), [x]. Tu 18:00–20:00. In addition: psychologist, cosmetologist, therapeutic exercises, massage.
Walking, ([email protected]), [x]. A walking tour is the best way to see the Old Town of Kaunas. You can also get a free tour from a local guide (often a student), but the booking is under the fee. They take you on a three-hour tour, showing you all the popular but also the less-known spots and telling lots of funny stories.
Kaunas‘ sports and leisure centers are scattered throughout Kaunas offering swimming pools, sports courts, fields, and exercise equipment.
Azuolynas sport center, Sporto St. 3, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 301 010 ([email protected]), [x]. Neighboring Darius & Girenas Sports Complex, there is a privately-owned "Ąžuolynas“sports center with 8 tennis courts, SPA procedures [1] and a gym available to the public.
Darius & Girenas Sports Complex, Perkuno St. 5, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 777 589. Home of FBK Kaunas F.C. and the only large athletics stadium in Lithuania. FBK Kaunas is the most successful football club having won 8 Lithuanian national football championships, and 3 Lithuanian Football Cup titles after the restoration of independence of Lithuania in 1990. Dariaus and Girėno stadium, located near the Ažuolynas park, is also used as IAAF Accredited Training Centre in Kaunas. The stadium is under reconstruction. The sports complex also includes adjacent Kaunas Sports Hall the earlier largest arena for sports and events. It is the first arena built in 1939 specially for basketball in Europe. The capacity is 5,000. Nearby is situated the only Lithuania higher institution of physical education Lithuanian Sports University. The sports complex is accessible from the city center by bus #6, 10, 21, 37 (from K. Donelaicio str.) or #38,43 (from Vytauto av.) or by taxi (be aware, there is a shortage of parking lots near the Darius & Girenas Sports Complex).
Hot air balloon flight, Taikos Av 7, Kaunas (Central part of town near Žaliakalnis district), ☎ +370 657 75868 ([email protected]), [x]. Flights can be arrange in Kaunas itself or any other agreed location.
Kart Racing Sports Center, Raudondvario St. 105, Kaunas, ☎ +370 671 111 66 ([email protected]), [x]. Open Tu-Su 14:00-20:00; closed on Mondays. Situated in the western part of Kaunas, Vilijampole district, Kart Center offers to the public small, open, four-wheeled karts for leisure as well as for kart racing. For the kart racing center, there is a kart school open on Sundays.
Kaunas Air Club (Kauno aeroklubas), [x]. Explore Kaunas from the sky ordering flights and parachute jumps from Kaunas Aeroclub. Flights with small planes or gliders, parachute jumping are available at Kaunas Darius and Girenas airport, accessible from the city center bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.
Kaunas Yacht Club, M. Gimbutienes str.35, Kaunas, [x]. It is set on the shore of Kaunas Reservoir, near the beautiful Pazaislis park, the club offers to rent everything for active water sports leisure - boats, yachts or pedalo; tennis courts, sauna, and conference hall are available. Nearby the comfortable motel Baltosios bures is established.
Legionas Paintball Club, Europos av.34-62, Kaunas, ☎ +370 687 22333 ([email protected]), [x]. Club offers to play, both for women and men, the paintball - a game in which players fight to eliminate opponents by hitting them with pellets containing paint. The club also tenders to spend leisure time by playing airsoft. Both games are played in Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park, in the territory of Kaunas Fortress' 5-th Fort.
Linija, Taikos av. 44A, Kaunas, [x]. Open Mo-Fr 7:00-22:00, Sa-Su 9:00-21:00. One of the oldest wellness centers in Kaunas offers a swimming zone with pools and saunas, 3 floors of gyms, as well 2 halls of group exercises. Additional services are available.
Marvele Stud Farm (Marveles žirgynas), Marveles St. 199, Kaunas (Located near the western bypass of Kaunas), ☎ +370 688 75206. Open 10:00-20:00. Closed on Mondays. Stud farm is a good choice for the fans of horse-riding. To get to the stud farm, from the city center, take bus #18 or a taxi.
Žalgiris Sports Complex (Kauno Žalgirio stadionas), A. and J. Gravrogku St. 4, Kaunas (near the shopping center Molas), ☎ +370 37 351 616, [x]. Working hours: Sa, Su 8:00-20:00; Mo-Fr 8:00-22:00. Universal sports complex offers 7 tennis courts (including 4 of them under roof), training sessions for fans of yoga, aerobics, basketball, and karate. Massage, sauna, and coffee bar are available.
Kaunas has many theatres showing plays of different kinds:
Kaunas ''Aura'' Dance Theater, M. Daukša St 30A, Kaunas, [x]. Located in the Old Town. The only theatre of Contemporary art of dance in whole country.
The Kaunas Philharmonic
Kaunas Chamber Theatre, Kęstutis St 74A, Kaunas, [x]. This small theater is located near Musical Theatre, but well known.
Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra, Sapiegos St. 5, Kaunas, [x]. Orchestra plays concerts at Kaunas Philharmonic which is set at the premise of former Lithuanian Parliament House.
Kaunas Pantomime Theatre, M. Daukša St 34, Kaunas, [x]. The only theatre in Lithuania of that kind.
Kaunas Puppet Theater, Laisves aleja, 87A, Kaunas, [x]. Cozy theatre plays for children with a small museum of puppets inside. Located near Musical theatre.
Kaunas State Drama Theatre, Laisvės alėja 71, Kaunas, [x]. Theatre shows drama performances.
Kaunas State Musical Theatre, Laisvės alėja 91, Kaunas, [x]. There is on the show variety of classical opera and operetta plays in the original language. Everyone should purchase tickets in advance.
Boat tours, [x]. There are regular routes and tours for the private groups too (up to 35 passengers). Departure from Old Town Pier of Kaunas, near the Church of Vytautas the Great. Boating routes: Kaunas-Kacergine, Kaunas-Raudondvaris or Kaunas-Zapyskis. During the tour, you will enjoy the city of Kaunas and its suburbs by the largest rivers of Lithuania: Nemunas, Neris, and Nevezis.
Bus tours. Three guided routes by bus are for your convenience in Kaunas. A two-hour sightseeing tour starts and ends at the Town Hall square. It is possible to arrange Kaunas City Tour in English, German, Russian, Polish, French, Spanish, Italian or other languages. Price: ~€5.5-10 per person. Discounts for groups are available by making a call +370 686 72224 or at E. Ožeškienės St. 4.
Cycling tours. It is also a great way to get to know Kaunas. The growing network of biking paths, with the most spectacular panoramic views of the Nemunas and the Neris and the ability to bike from one end of the city to another Also you can bike outside Kaunas city by route from Kaunas to Kacergine which is almost 35 km long.
Mobile tours, [x]. It is better to use QR scanner for your connection to Kaunas Pocket guide and discover all the famous sites of Kaunas.
Scooter tour, Islandijos pl. 32, Kaunas, ☎ +370 607 72427 ([email protected]), [x]. Electric scooters rent in Kaunas what will help you travel around Kaunas. Also, there is possible to rent bicycles too.
Tours of abandoned tunnels, ghosts, the astrays in the forests, and swamps, Various locations in Vilnius, Kaunas, and vicinities, ☎ +370 652 16600 ([email protected]), [x]. Several options of guided adventure activities, can be booked in 4 cities. If the EN page is empty use the same page in the LT version and online translator. A certain degree of physical fit and special dressing may be required. Some of the places may be found and visited on your own, however, activities without a guide in some cases can cause serious injuries because of the lack of knowledge of the place specifics.
Yoga Academy (Jogos akademija), Savanorių Ave 192, Kaunas (Business centre “Nordic”, entrance from the yard, 4th-floor), ☎ +370 685 18997, [x]. Mo-Fr, hours vary.
Yoga Studio Buddha On Bike, Laisvės al 26, LT-44238 Kaunas, ☎ +370 662 17944 ([email protected]), [x].
Yoga Studio Urban Yoga (Miesto joga), Veiverių St 150, Aleksotas district, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 328-241 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 328-239), [x]. Mo-Sa, hours vary. 1 month season ticket ~€20 (1 time per week), ~€60 (4 times per week).
Kaunas’ Yoga House (Kauno jogos namai), Leliūnų St 10, LT- 50177, Kaunas (Žaliakalnis district near Savanoriai Ave), ☎ +370 686 54671, +370 687 19976 ([email protected]), [x]. Mo-Th 08:00-21:00, Fr 08:00-20:00, lunch break 13:00-14:00.
The most well-known grocery stores are - Maxima, IKI, Rimi, Norfa, Šilas, Samsonas. Senukai sells household goods. Each of them offers everything for daily needs. There are also a great amount of well-known Western brand stores, stylish boutiques usually set at the central streets of Kaunas or shopping malls. Also one may choose to stroll around in the areas of some Kaunas outdoor markets.
Black bread - baked from rye flour has a slightly sour taste and is a favorite of some tourists.
Cottage cheese - lots of variations.
Flax (linas) products - high quality and old traditions.
Hand-made bone china table sets, cups, mugs, and other souvenirs. Available at the ImDeco store in Akropolis shopping mall (or directly from producer JSC Jiesia at Chemijos St. 29, at the eastern part of Kaunas).
Linen or wooden dolls - for children.
Mead (midus) - an original national beverage made of vodka, some herbs, and with honey flavor and taste. Not to be confused with medus, which is honey in Lithuanian.
Šakotis - popular traditional Lithuanian poundcake grilled layer by layer. Its name means branched, and that describes its distinctive shape, usually dressed up for a wedding ceremony.
Vodka (Degtiné) - a whole range of flavoured vodkas. Try cherry, cranberry, lemon, blackcurrant, raspberry, and of course classic. The pepper was an acquired taste - but got easier the more you drank.
Within Kaunas, there are several malls that are usually open from 8 AM until 12 PM. Typically most shopping centers have not only dozens or more stores, but also a food court, restaurants, multiplexes, branches of commercial banks, ATMs, bowling alleys, and even may have a skating rink. Shopping lovers should visit the cozy craft shops in the Old Town for Lithuanian souvenirs as well.
Mega aquarium
Akropolis, [x]. Shopping mall built in 2007 and located in a 4-storey building in the centre of the city. There are lots of retailers, restaurants and cafés, entertainment providers. The shopping centre also comes with a huge multi-level parking lot (free of charge), an ice skating arena surrounded by a food court, a bowling alley, a casino and a multiplex cinema.
Hyper Maxima, Savanoriu av. 255, Kaunas, [x]. open daily 8:00-23:00. A department store with several restaurants, including self-service Delano restaurant with decorative windmill on the outside, more than 40 other shops and services available.
Mega Shopping and Leisure Centre, Islandijos road 32, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 239 000 ([email protected]), [x]. A huge shopping complex just outside the city center with shops, 4D multiscreen cinema, Q-zar laser space, a bowling and pool club, restaurants and a spectacular aquarium in the main entrance stocked with tropical fish including some sharks. Stairs and an escalator take you up beside it for a better view. Served by bus #38 and #21 from the city center (journey time about 20 minutes).
Interior of one Shopping Center in Kaunas
Molas, K. Baršausko St. 66A, Kaunas, ☎ +370 611 46688, [x]. A department store of Maxima, around 50 groceries, bookstores, opticians, some restaurants, pizzerias, branches of commercial banks, a bowling alley, tables of snooker and pool.
Savas, Savanoriu av. 346, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 730 600, [x]. A lot of stores, including huge Rimi Hypermarket, service center, coffee-house, pizzerias, and more.
Urmas, Pramones pr. 16, Kaunas 51186, ☎ +370 37 455 255, [x]. Shopping area located at the eastern part of the city, is equipped with specialized meat, fruit & vegetable and fish markets. The business area is divided into separate units: Yellow, Green, Grey, Western and Eastern galleries, and the Red passage. The area is decorated with antique passenger trains from the beginning of the 20th century. The train is adapted to trading activities & catering services. Urmas center features a 2.500 parking lot that surrounds all galleries. Urmas shopping area is reachable from the city center by taxi, minibus #99 or trolleybuses #15,16.
While in Lithuania, one should try these national dishes:
Appetizers - Piršteliai prie alaus - thin, rolled-up puff pastries served with beer;
Main courses: Cepelinai (or didžkukuliai) su spirgučiais - potato balls with meat; Vėdarai - a sausage, made of potato stuffed intestine of a pig; Skilandis - pig stomach stuffed with meat, garlic and cold-smoked; Plokštainis - meal of potatoes; Bulviniai blynai (grated potato pancakes) with different sauces; Virtinukai - curd patties; Kastinys - soft sour cream butter; Šaltnosiukai - dumplings filled with lingonberries; Fish - pike or perch, is often baked whole or stuffed, or made into gefilte fish (various prices); Silkė - marinated, baked, fried or served in aspic herring;
Soups - Šaltibarščiai (a summer soup based on beets and soured milk), Juka (blood soup), or Cabbage soup flavored with carrots, ham, and onions. Ruginė duona (dark rye bread) is very advisable to try with soups.
Lithuanian cuisine is also famous for its wide use of wild berries, mushrooms, and cheese. Honey and poppy seeds are commonly used as filling in pastries. For desserts, try Žagarėliai - twisted, thin deep-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar or Spurgos - a Lithuanian variant of doughnuts, often filled with preserves.
Arena Pizza, Savanoriu av. 363, Kaunas, [x]. Offers a huge range of pizzas and side dishes at good prices and is very centrally located.
Cili Pizza (Čili Pizza), Islandijos pl. 32, Kaunas 49177, ☎ +370 698 88019, [x]. Good value, tasty and comfortable at Mega shopping center.
Donelaicio Cafe Bar (Donelaičio), K. Donelaičio St. 66, ☎ +370 690 06611, [x]. Tasty food and welcoming but don't expect lightning fast service - a relaxed pace and a chance to watch the world go by while your food is cooked. The closest eating place to the Vytautas the Great War Museum (see above) - tasty, warm, good value, but a little slow.
Hesburger, Savanorių pr. 222B, Kaunas 50197, ☎ +37064519441, [x]. Finnish style fast food.
McDonald's, Savanorių pr. 321, Kaunas 50120, ☎ +370 685 71100, [x]. American fast food restaurant
Motiejaus bakery (Motiejaus kepyklėlė Kaune), Vilniaus gatvė 7, Kaunas 44280, ☎ +370 616 15599, [x]. Breakfast in old town Kaunas
Pharmacy Tea Room (Vilties vaistinės arbatinė), Laisvės al. 100-1, Kaunas 44252, ☎ +370 679 86939, [x]. Small teahouse in front of Vytautas monument offers vegetarian menu only.
Spurgine (Spurginė), Laisvės aleja, 84, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 200 355, [x]. One of the last traditional places in central Kaunas, where you can buy the standard Lithuanian doughnut, known as a spurga.
Sushi Express, Laisves aleja, 12A, Kaunas, [x]. Japanese fast food restaurant offers more than 30 sushi, maki, sashimi dishes, vegetarians as well.
Alkava, A. Mickevičiaus g. 40, Kaunas 44240, ☎ +370 640 19928, [x]. Wonderful confectioneries with wide arrangement of patisserie and coffee.
Berneliu Uzeiga (Bernelių Užeiga), Old town, M. Valančiaus g. 9, Kaunas 44275, ☎ +370 614 05236, [x]. Tasty traditional Lithuanian dishes, soup in bowls made of bread and home brewed beer. Cozy and atmospheric and very convenient if you are in the Old Town as it is just a minute from the tourist information center.
Chillout caffe & food, M. Daukšos g. 35-1, Kaunas 44282, ☎ +370 697 63687. Pizza restaurant
Fortas Restaurant, K. Donelaicio St. 60, Kaunas, ☎ +370 685 48480, [x]. Open Mo-Fr 11:00-16:00; other days 11:00-24:00.
Kavine 49, Laisvės al. 49a, Kaunas 44309, ☎ +370 682 87999, [x]. Situated in the courtyard of Kaunas' central avenue, the restaurant offers real Lithuanian, as well as European.
Kavos Kerai, Vilniaus gatvė 60, Kaunas 44289, ☎ +370 687 71220, [x]. Very good ice coffee, many different kinds of coffee and tea, nice and welcoming coffee house, tasty traditional Lithuanian dishes. Right next there is President Garden famous and warm place to go after a cup of coffee in Kavos Kerai.
Le Garden, Rotuses sq. 29, Kaunas 44279, ☎ +370 636 55553, [x].
Miesto Sodas, Laisves al. 93, Kaunas 44297, ☎ +370 37 424 424, [x]. Very good restaurant offering European cuisine with adjacent night club "Siena".
Milano, A. Mickeviciaus g. 19, Kaunas 44310, ☎ +370 372 06382, [x]. Quality Italian pizzeria close to Laisves aleja
Moksha, Vasario 16-osios St. 6, Kaunas, ☎ +370 676 71649, [x]. Open Mo-Fr 11:00-22:00, Sa 12:00-22:00, Su 12:00-20:00. Small cozy Indian cafe. High-quality food, great service.
Pas Stanley, Vilniaus St. 24, Kaunas, ☎ +370 650 36506. Open Mo-Th, Su 9:00-12:00, Fr-Sa 9:00-16:00. Excellent service provided in a family run restaurant combined with the warm atmosphere of the 1960s.
Pizza Jazz, Laisves aleja, 68, Kaunas, [x]. Great pizzas and other dishes and good beer in very comfortable surroundings.
Pompeja (Pompėja), V. Putvinskio St. 38, Kaunas, ☎ +370 687 23728. It is named after Roman ruined city of Pompeii, the restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine for formal business lunch or for romantic dinner at the very heart of Kaunas' downtown.
Radharane, Laisves aleja, 40, Kaunas, ☎ +370 373 62941, [x]. Open daily 11:00-20:00. Indian vegetarian restaurant with cozy atmosphere.
Skliautas Restaurant, Rotušės a. 26, Kaunas 44279, ☎ +370 686 42700. A wonderful setting in Old town.
Yakata, M. Valanciaus St. 14, Kaunas, ☎ +370 681 83533 ([email protected]), [x]. Japanese restaurant also offers vegetarian dishes and European quisine.
Zalia Pupa, Laisves al. 78, Kaunas 44249, ☎ +370 603 55550, [x]. Vegetarian restaurant. Raw cocktails and snacks.
Gralis, Trumpoji St. 10, Kaunas, ☎ +370 372 09373, [x]. Restaurant is located close to Old Town, just get about 300 meters up the hill from Benediktiniu St. and turn left on Trumpoji street. There are 4 banqueting halls inside on 2 floors. Luxury European cuisine and Italian dishes have a very special place. There is also a small guesthouse alongside. In the summertime, one may enjoy unique views of nature from the terrace.
Medziotoju uzeiga (Medžiotojų užeiga), Rotuses sq.10, Kaunas LT-4379, ☎ +370 687 54 032, [x]. Open 11:00-24:00. Restaurant offers dishes made not only from deer. High-quality Lithuanian and European cuisine in 4 halls.
Lovers of nightlife may enjoy Kaunas’s nightclubs[45], cafes and bars, offering a wide range of entertainment, including casinos, striptease, local and foreign DJs, or, for instance, basketball/football games translations on large screens.
Beer (Alus) - Utenos, Švyturys are to be recommended in tourist bars and restaurants. e.g. Geru Alu Gerti Gera - has a red awning outside and is situated on Birštono street. Worth a visit just to see the wild boar skin and wild boar head on the walls).
B2O bar, Gedimino St. 30, Kaunas 44319, ☎ +370 684 02200, [x].
Brunch Bar, Muitinės g. 11-3, Kaunas 44280, ☎ +370 647 73828, [x]. It is liked by local students. Tender friendly atmosphere.
Buon Giorno Trattoria, S. Daukanto g. 14, Kaunas 44309, ☎ +370 610 63777, [x]. Italian restaurant provides a genuinely and unusually good atmosphere.
Jack Pub, Vilniaus str 22, Kaunas 44280, ☎ +370 637 41395, [x].
Kauno alus, Savanoriu av.7, Kaunas, ☎ +370 372 01838, [x]. Open 9:00-21:00. Branded pub of local brewery. Very fresh stock.
Kurpiu Spunka (Kurpių Špunka), Kurpiu St. 29, Kaunas 44288, [x]. Pub
Nautilus, Savanorių pr. 124, Kaunas 44148, ☎ +370 652 82454, [x]. holiday home + bar
rePUBlic No.1, Laisvės al. 57, Kaunas 44305, ☎ +370 614 43444, [x]. Sports bar
Stumbras Museum, K. Būgos St. 7, Kaunas 44328, ☎ +370 686 94388, [x]. Open Mo-Fr 12:00-16:00. The largest producer of strong drinks in Lithuania Stumbras (Wisent) at the end of 2009 have opened a museum at the premise of the factory that introduces company's history and development of consumption in Lithuania. Only prearranged guided tours are available, please make a call to register. Guided tours in English, Russian and Lithuanian are available. Groups from 5 to 23 people are accepted. Visitors must be older than 18 years.
The number of places to stay grows every year. Also the choice of distinct types of accommodation increases as well. Despite it, booking in advance in the summertime is recommended. There are some other choices of staying: e.g., motels, guesthouses, small hotels, that are not listed below.
Apple Economy Hotel, M. Valančiaus St. 19, Kaunas 44275, ☎ +370 37 321 404 ([email protected]), [x]. The hotel is set in Kaunas' Old Town area and has 14 double rooms. Breakfast is not included in the room price.
Baltosios Bures, M. Gimbutienės str 35, Kaunas 52337, ☎ +370 37 370 467 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 370 415), [x]. Cheap, cozy motel alongside with Kaunas yacht club at the shore of Kaunas Reservoir in Pazaislis. The motel offers 35 double rooms with TV, Wi-Fi, and showers.
Guesthouse LT, Savanoriu av. 122A, Kaunas, ☎ +370 686 31 934 ([email protected]), [x]. Comfortable, family run guesthouse with outstanding value for money also offers breakfast. 4 rooms.
Kaunas Archdiocese' Guesthouse, Rotuses sq.21, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 322 597 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 320 090), [x]. Ideally situated at the heart of the Old Town, the guesthouse offers 21 clean and modern rooms with Internet access.
Kaunas Camp Inn, Raudondvario road 161 A, Kaunas, ☎ +370 602 33 444 ([email protected]), [x]. Kaunas Camp Inn is located on the entrance to Kaunas City from highway Via Baltica E67, at the western part of Kaunas, 5 km to Kaunas Old Town. At the Camp Inn tennis court, basketball and beach volleyball grounds, as well as Car Parking, Wireless Internet, Wheelchair access, Self Serve Laundry, Security Guard (24 hrs) are available.
Kaunas City Camping, Jonavos g. 51a, Kaunas 44131, ☎ +370 618 09 407 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 321 648), [x]. Kaunas City Camping is located just off the Vilnius-Klaipėda motorway north of downtown on the right bank of the Neris river. Kaunas camping offers places for 50 motor homes and an area to pitch tents. Electricity, washing facilities are available. Kaunas Old town is reachable from camping by bus #20.
Kaunas City Hotel, Laisvės al. 90, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 220 220 ([email protected]), [x]. The tourist class hotel offers 44 large rooms, a cafe, grocery store, wireless Internet connection, 24-hour reception, and other facilities.
Mazylis guesthouse, Dysnos St. 7, Kaunas 44433, ☎ +370 37 743 815.
Metropolis Hotel, S. Daukanto St. 21, Kaunas 44249, ☎ +370 37 205 992 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 20 62 69), [x]. The location of the oldest city's hotel is in the very heart of the downtown. Buffet breakfast is served. 74 rooms.
Monks Bunk, Laisvės al. 48, Kaunas, ☎ +370 620 99695 ([email protected]), [x]. Cheap and very cozy hostel in central Kaunas. You feel at home immediately. Very friendly host. No breakfast or meals included, but you can cook in a fully equipped kitchen.
Musu Dvaras, Jonavos str.43B, Kaunas, ☎ +370 614 41 631 (fax: +370 37 389 461), [x]. Guesthouse offers 6 rooms for 12 persons, a restaurant, cozy banquet hall, and conference hall. Please, check in advance for the price, it's negotiable.
LITiNTERP Kaunas, Gedimino St. 28-7, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 228718 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 425120). checkin: 12:00; checkout: 13:00. Offers eight cozy rooms, each equipped with natural wooden furniture and en-suite bathrooms with original pictures of Kaunas Old Town and furniture made from Lithuanian wood. Each room has tea/coffee making equipment and all necessary dishes. Guests can access their rooms at any time since they have their own keys. All rooms are non-smoking. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi.
Alanta Hotel, Alantos St. 33, Kaunas 50175, ☎ +370 37 731 142 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 733 871). Hotel was opened in 1997 in quiet area of Žaliakalnis district, 2 km from the city center, 8 rooms.
Babilonas Hotel, Žalioji g. 38A, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 202 545 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 209 156), [x]. Hotel is in a quiet district of Kaunas, named Žaliakalnis. The hotel offers 24 modern arranged rooms, a conference hall, and a restaurant.
Center Hotel, Savanorių pr. 66, Kaunas 44208, ☎ +370 372 44007, [x]. Hotel situated in the very heart of Kaunas city. Located in the quiet surroundings on the green slope of Žaliakalnis hill the hotel yet is very close to the city’s main artery — Savanoriu Avenue with 28 rooms.
Ibis Kaunas Centre hotel, Vytauto St. 28, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 265 600 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 265 666), [x]. A brand-new hotel that belongs to an international Accor chain offers 125 air-conditioned rooms with free Internet access, conference facilities, and a restaurant.
Magnus Hotel, Vytauto St. 25, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 340 000 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 240 804), [x]. Hotel in the center of Kaunas, near recently renovated Central railway station of Kaunas. 82 rooms. The hotel has parking space for 30 cars and at least 3 buses.
Nakties Magija Hotel, Skroblu St. 3, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 797 923 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 795 832). Hotel is in Žaliakalnis district, near Azuolynas park. It offers 10 modern rooms.
Olympus - Ex Regina, A. Strazdo g. 62, Kaunas 48469, ☎ +370 37 262 020 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 268 855), [x]. Small hotel located in quiet residential district of Vilijampole offers 10 comfortable rooms.
Pažaislis park Hotel, T. Masiulio St. 18e, Kaunas 52460, ☎ +370 614 63664 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 351554), [x]. Hotel is in the service and entertainment park, Pažaislis Park, consisting of the Svarstyklės European and Chinese restaurant. 10 rooms.
Amberton Cozy Hotel, Rotušes sq. 5 / V. Kuzmos St. 8, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 229 981 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 220 355), [x]. Hotel is situated in the Old Town, and, surrounded by architectural monuments – Kaunas Castle, Cathedral Basilica, Vytautas Church, Town Hall, St. Francis Xavier Church, and Perkūnas House. 28 rooms.
Best Baltic Kaunas hotel, A. Mickevičiaus g. 28, Kaunas 44311, ☎ +370 37 321 505. Hotel is in the center of the city, next to the main pedestrian street Laisves Avenue. 75 rooms.
Best Western Santaka Hotel, Gruodžio St. 21, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 302 702 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 302 700), [x]. Hotel is in the heart of Kaunas center, and, offers 92 stylish and well-equipped rooms with air conditioning systems. In the Hotel’s enclosed back yard there is a free parking lot and garages. Nightclub and restaurant Europa is adjacent to the hotel.
Daugirdas Hotel, T.Daugirdo St. 4, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 301 561 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 301 562), [x]. Business class hotel and restaurant "Daugirdas" is situated in the very Old Town of Kaunas, 50 m from the Town Hall, in the confluence of the biggest Lithuanian rivers. 48 rooms.
Europa Royale Kaunas Hotel, Misko St. 11, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 407 500 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 407 501), [x]. Clean hotel with 91 spacious rooms is situated in the center of the city and near the shopping mall with lots of shops and restaurants. The free parking lot for cars and busses (60 parking spaces) in the back yard of the hotel and another one in front of the hotel.
Hermis Hotel, Savanorių av. 404, Kaunas 50300, ☎ +370 37 490 300 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 490 301), [x]. Hotel is situated at the main entrance to the city from Vilnius direction, offers 13 modern rooms with Italian cuisine restaurant Portofino, wellness center and conference hall.
Kaunas Hotel, Laisves Avenue 79, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 750 850 (fax: +370 37 750 851), [x]. It offers comfortable rooms with views directly onto the avenue, has an elevator, and provides a sumptuous breakfast in its cellar restaurant for the more discerning traveler. 85 rooms.
Perkuno Namai Hotel, Perkuno av. 61, Kaunas, ☎ +370 37 320 230 ([email protected], fax: +370 37 323 678), [x]. The hotel is the first private hotel in Kaunas. It is in a residential district named Žaliakalnis adjacent to the old oak forest. The hotel offers 29 modern rooms.
Radisson Hotel Kaunas, K. Donelaičio g. 27, Kaunas 44240, ☎ +370 37 306 100 ([email protected]), [x]. The largest Kaunas hotel is in a very central location. Conference and Event Center. The hotel has 208 air-conditioned rooms in Northern European style.
Kaunas usually is a safe place but everyone should take some precautions against pickpockets and baggage theft, especially in public transport and at stations.
Opposite the central train station, there is a "Station‘ market“ - a rough area, especially in the evenings. The baggage lockers in Kaunas railway station are a cheap and secure place to store bags and other items.
Kaunas tourism information center (Turizmo informacijos centras), Laisves a. 36, Kaunas 44279, ☎ +370 616 50991 ([email protected]), [x]. M-Fr 09:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-16:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Lunch break 13:00-14:00. Also, there is a department in Kaunas airport in Karmelava. Information stands are located at the Bus and Railway stations. Center organizes guided tours, offer seasonal discounts to SPAs and medical sanatorium of Birštonas resort, some other seasonal offers.Provides various information (free of charge).
Birštonas resort. Everyone, while in Kaunas, should take some time and make a short trip to Birštonas - one of the oldest balneology resorts in Lithuania. Birštonas is located about 30 km (19 miles) south of Kaunas among the beautiful forests in the Great Loop of the Nemunas river. Buses #52 leave often from Kaunas central bus station and take about 40 minutes. Birštonas tourism information center [46]is in the heart of the town.
Rumsiskes (Rumšiškės). 18 km (11 miles) to the east of Kaunas near the Kaunas-Vilnius motorway in Rumšiškės has located one of the largest in Europe open-air ethnographic museums [47]. It displays the heritage of Lithuanian rural life in authentic re-erected buildings from the 18th–19th centuries. Rumšiškės also belongs to the Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park. The museum is reachable by minibus (from Platform 26 of the bus station), taxi, or (in summer times) by boat from Kaunas Pažaislis pier.
Zapyskis (Zapyškis). Some hours enough to make a visit to Zapyskis, 17 km (10 miles) west of Kaunas on the left bank of the Nemunas River. Zapyškis small-town community is proud of St. John Baptist Church built in a gothic style in 1578. Since the beginning of the 20th century not been used for cults. Sacral music concerts and cultural events are held here in the summertime.
