Kaunas
Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania, with a population of some 288,000 people. The main reason to visit is its charming Old Town, connected to the 19th century New Town ranged along Laisvės alėja. It was the country's capital between the two world wars.
The 1 Kaunas Tourism Information Centre is at Rotuses Square 29, next to Town Hall. It's open M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00; see also the online tourist guide.
Understand
Climate
The best time to visit Kaunas is May to August. Summers are cool - July is the warmest with an average 16°C - and there are frequent showers.
Winter is icy, bitter cold, and the days are short. Nevertheless, it can be a good time to visit, because the city is well adapted to the cold. The streets get snow-plowed and the transport keeps running. Museums and similar facilities remain open. Buildings are well-heated, with cloakrooms and other storage for all your clobber. You'll need ten mins to shuck off your layers of clothing every time you enter a building, and ten mins to wrap up again before you venture out, but this is all part of the winter routine. It's companionable, everyone feels in league together against the winter, and it's as much a part of experiencing the country as church incense, vodka and potatoes. And outside you can lark about with sledges and snowmen. Choose carefully who you snowball - the locals have far greater skills than you have.
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History
The city grew up in an obvious strategic position, at the confluence of the country's two main rivers. There's been settlement here for at least 2500 years but what we now call the Old Town dates from the 14th century when the castle was built. Kaunas prospered as part of the Hanseatic League into the 16th century. Medieval Lithuania had united with Poland to control a huge swathe of Europe, right down to the Black Sea, but Sweden and Russia grew and fought for regional control, and in the 17th and 18th centuries they attacked and wrecked Kaunas several times. Russia won the power struggle and took over Lithuania in 1795, while Poland was carved up between Russia, Prussia and Austria.
The Grand Army of Napoleon marched through Kaunas to occupy Moscow in 1812, and then retreated, and devastated the city both times. It had all been too easy to invade, and there were ominous local uprisings, so in the 19th century Russia tightened its grip by building up the local garrison. This culminated in the colossal military complex of "Fortress Kaunas" encircling the city; but it proved of limited value in 20th century warfare, and nowadays only the "Ninth Fort" (of ten) is standing.
Lithuania proclaimed its independence in 1918, the "First Republic". Vilnius had always been the chief city, but it was seized first by the Russian Bolsheviks then by Poland; so instead Kaunas became the provisional capital. This greatly stimulated its urban and cultural development, with handsome buildings in neoclassical, functional and Art Deco design, dubbed "Little Paris". It was a diverse city: a quarter of the population were Jewish, engaged in commercial, artisan, professional life, and religious learning.
The First Republic was crushed in 1940 when the Soviet Union annexed Lithuania. But Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941 and yet again the Russians fled, choosing not to make a stand so far from Moscow. The Germans set about liquidating the Jewish population: over 30,000 perished. The Red Army retook the Baltic states in 1944, and post-war Lithuania became part of the USSR. Not until 1990 was it again independent.
Get in
By plane
- 1 Kaunas International Airport (KUN IATA) (14 km northeast of Kaunas on A6/E262). The main operator is Ryanair, with flights (some seasonal) to Alicante, Bologna, Bristol, Burgas, Copenhagen, Cologne, Dublin, Eilat, Girona, Luton, Stansted, Milan Malpensa, Naples, Nuremberg, Paphos, Rhodes, Rimini, Shannon and Tel Aviv. Wizz Air fly to Alesund, Bergen, Eindhoven, Luton, Stavanger and Turku. LOT fly to Warsaw. The terminal has a restaurant, bars, duty-free shops, car rentals, travel agency, currency exchange and ATMs. The airport has three parking lots with about 1000 parking spaces offering short- and long-term parking.
(Vilnius Airport (VNO IATA), 100 km east, has a far greater selection of flights, serving all the European capitals and many other cities. It's close to Vilnius rail and bus stations for onward transport to Kaunas.)
Getting there/away
Take Bus 29 from outside Arrivals; it runs via Savanoriu Ave to the main railway and bus station, taking an hour. Buses run daily once or twice an hour between 04:30 and 23:30, then a last bus heads into town at 01:00 but will wait for delayed flights. The fare is €1, pay the driver.
There are also direct buses between Kaunas airport and Vilnius, Klaipeda, Riga and Minsk.
A taxi to the Old Town of Kaunas costs around €16. Some hotels offer a shuttle to and from the airport, for similar prices.
By road
The dual-carriageway motorways and main highways are in good condition and are kept open in winter. The motorway speed limit is 130 km/h, but 110 km/h in winter, and 100 km/h on the Vilnius-Kaunas sector.
The main international highway is Via Baltica E67 connecting Warsaw via Lithuania to Tallinn. It runs north from Augustow in Poland to become A5 at the border; from there it runs northeast past Marijampolė to Kaunas, continuing as A8 / A10 north to Riga then Tallinn.
Highway A1 / E85 runs west from Kaunas to Klaipėda on the coast, and east to Vilnius. From Vilnius A3 / E28 runs southeast into Belarus, towards Minsk.
Highway A6 / E262 runs northeast from Kaunas to Jonava, Ukmerge, Utena and Daugavpils in Latvia.
By train
There are two trains between Białystok in Poland and Kaunas on Saturday & Sunday; Friday has just one eastbound train to Kaunas, Monday has one westbound train to Białystok. The schedule means you can leave Warsaw Centralna around 13:00, change at Białystok for the onward train at 15:40 to reach Kaunas by 21:30 (with a one hour time switch at the border, but no change of gauge or train); and there you could catch a train to Vilnius arriving 23:00. Westbound, be on the 10:00 train from Kaunas to reach Białystok for 13:45 and change to reach Warsaw for 17:00. The other weekend train necessitates an overnight stay in Białystok. These trains do not enter Belarus.
Trains between Russia and its exclave of Kaliningrad cross Lithuania but don't run through Kaunas. Travel via Vilnius for trains from Minsk, Moscow, St Petersburg and beyond.
Trains shuttle between Kaunas and Vilnius hourly, daily 04:30-22:30, taking 1 hour 40 min. Adult fares are about €6. The trains are usually Czech double-deckers.
Between Kaunas and Klaipeda you usually have to change at Kaišiadorys, and there can be a very long wait between trains.
2 Kaunas railway station (Kauno geležinkelio stotis) is at M.K. Čiurlionio g. 16 in the southeast corner of the city, 2 km from Old Town: you can follow a pleasant footpath along the river bank. There are lockers next to the ticket office, a tourist office, an ATM and a small café.
About 500 m northeast of the station, a splendid old steam locomotive stands at the entrance to a 1.3 km railway tunnel, built in 1861 and still in use. But the road along here (Tunelio gatve) is busy with traffic and it's taking you away from the other city sights; you can see it just fine on Google street view.
By bus
- 3 Kaunas bus station (is 200 m from the railway station, in the southeast corner of the city).
National: Between Kaunas and Vilnius, the main bus line is Kautra, with departures every 15 min taking 90 mins, fare €7. Toks buses also run this line hourly, same travel time and fare. Between Kaunas and Klaipeda, various lines run hourly taking 3 hours, fare €15. See the ticket website for full choice.
International: Eurolines run buses to Kaunas from Riga in Latvia (4 per day, 4 hr, €20), Tallinn in Estonia (2 per day, 11 hr, €30), Minsk in Belarus (3 direct per day, 7 hr, €17; more by changing in Vilnius), and Warsaw in Poland (2 per day, 7 hr, €20).
Get around
By bus
Some 47 bus and 16 trolleybus routes criss-cross the city, running from about 05:00 to 23:00. Buy tickets at newspaper kiosks or on board; a single (paper) ticket is €1 - validate pre-bought tickets on boarding. You can also buy e-tickets (swipe cards) for pay as you go (€0.70 per journey), 3 days (€5.50), 7 days (€10), 1 month (€28 for M-F, €31 for 7-day use), 3 months, or a year. Buy from kiosks and top up online.
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See Kaunas Public Transport for fares, downloadable map and travel planner.
By taxi
Book taxis by phone, it's not usual to hail them on the street here. In the evening and at night, prices are higher. Reputable companies are:
- [dead link] Žaibiškas greitis, ☏ +370 37 234 444, 1422 (Omnitel short no), 1441 (Bite short no). Established in 1992 and owned largest taxi fleet in Kaunas
- Taxi Kaunas, ☏ +370 60 114411, +370 60 441144. All taxi services available
- Smugis, ☏ +370 37 333 333.
- Einesa, ☏ +370 37 331 533.
- Greitasis taksi, ☏ +370 37 234 444.
By car
Driving a car in Kaunas is easy, as long as you comply with traffic regulations. Admittedly, the central part of Kaunas city is heavily affected by intensive traffic flows. It is notable, that some main central streets, i.e. K. Donelaicio/Kestucio are the part of a one-way system. It facilitates a smoother flow of traffic through the Kaunas city centre grid. Drivers must have a valid driving license and vehicle registration document, insurance (green card is valid in Lithuania). Renting a car for at least 24 hours in Kaunas is effortless. There are some companies renting cars in Kaunas, including Rentacar.lt, Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget, AviaEuropa, NeoRent, Autonuoma Kaune and Carent. All of these companies have offices at Kaunas airport. The vehicles are provided with a full tank. The car must be returned with a full tank, otherwise, €1 per litre is charged. To rent a car without a driver a deposit must be paid. The speed limit in Kaunas is 50 km/h, except for some bigger streets which have a speed limit of 60, 70 or even 80 km/h.
Parking in central Kaunas, as well as in the Old Town area, is paid. Central Kaunas is divided into three zones with different parking fees - red (most expensive), blue and green (least expensive). 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 if one has a local mobile provider - Omnitel, Bite or Tele2 card. A special sticker on the windscreen of the car to indicate that SMS payment can be used is required. The parking ticket or parking card must be clearly visible to be valid. Chip cards or parking cards are available in news-stands, in the Parking in Kaunas company office, Gedimino g.45, or at dressed in green parking controllers. Everyone is liable to an excess charge if they park beyond selected parking period. The excess period is 15 minutes.
By bike
There are more than 50 km of cycleways in Kaunas and this is increasing, see online chart. The Eurovelo international route goes through the city.
- Rent bikes from 2 2RIDE, Laisves aleja, 36, ☏ +370 37323436, fax: +370 37423 678, info@2ride.lt. M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa Su 10:00-18:30. Helmets also available. There's another service point at the Old Town tourist office, Rotuses square 29.
By boat
Regular water tourism routes: Kaunas - Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant - Kaunas (duration: 3 hours) and Kaunas - Rumšiškės - Kaunas (duration: 6 hours;) are available on Saturdays and Sundays from Kaunas Pažaislis pier. Each route start from Kaunas Reservoir pier at 11:00 Another water tourism route Kaunas - Zapyškis - Kulautuva small resort town (duration: 2 hours) starts from Kaunas Vytautas' church pier in the Old Town on Sundays at 12:00. Tickets are also available in advance at Kaunas region tourism information center, Laisves aleja, 36.
See
- Various city sight-seeing tours are available, see Tourist Office choices. They also tout a "Kaunastic" card but this is simply a gift card for retail outlets; it doesn't grant entry to the sights or rides on the buses.
Old Town
The city's top attraction for visitors is its Old Town, built around City Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė) between the 14th and 17th centuries in Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque style.
- 1 Kaunas Castle, Papilio g. 17. Sept-May Tu-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00; Jun-Aug Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-16:00. The castle was built mid-14th century at the confluence of the rivers Nemunas and Neris, and is the oldest building in Kaunas. Today the round tower houses an art gallery. The castle hosts occasional festivals. The tip of the confluence is Santakos Park. Adult €2.50.
- 2 Kaunas City Hall, Rotuses sq. 15. Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-16:00. Built in renaissance style in the mid-16th century, when Kaunas was a flourishing city of merchants, and nowadays dubbed The White Swan. In 1836 it was reconstructed as a residence for Russian czars. The Wedding Hall (marriage registration office) was opened on the ground and first floors in 1973. The cellars house the Kaunas Ceramics museum. The museum collection consists of archaeological findings from the Old Town and surroundings of Kaunas. The collection contains craftsmen-made crockery, tile stove ornaments, and roof tiles of impressive size. The exposition also reflects the lifestyle of the townsmen of the time. Adult €2.50.
- 3 Kaunas Medicine and Pharmacy Museum, Rotuses sq. 28. Tu-Sa 10:00-19:00. Houses a huge collection of skulls, herbs, medicine articles, and other items of older times. Tickets: Adult €2, child €1, tours in English €9.
- 4 Kaunas Arch-cathedral Basilica, Vilniaus g. 1. Being 84 m long and 34 m wide is the largest Gothic (with Renaissance and Baroque elements inside) church in Lithuania. It was first mentioned in writing sources in 1413. The tomb of poet Maironis was constructed in the southern wall of the cathedral in 1930s.
- 5 Kaunas Picture Gallery, K. Donelaicio g.16, ☏ +370 37 321789. Tu-Su 11:00-17:00 (Th until 19:00). Gallery houses 20th century Lithuanian and Lithuanian émigrés art, and a collection of North American Indian art donated by Juozas Kaributas (the USA). There is also Jurgis Mačiūnas FLUXUS cabinet and Art Collection of prof. Algimantas Miskinis. €2.
- 6 Church of Holy Trinity, Rotuses sq. 22. The Bernardine convent's church was built in 1624-1634. It is of late Renaissance style with a Gothic tradition. It is now used for needs of Kaunas Priest Seminary.
- 7 St. George Church and Bernardine Monastery, Papilio g. 7. Near Kaunas Castle, the church's Gothic walls have survived despite frequent fires. The church and a monastery built in the 15th century are a Gothic monument with unique façades. The interior features a number of valuable Renaissance and Gothic elements. The complex is being renovated.
- 8 Maironis Museum of Lithuania Literature, Rotuses sq. 13. Tu-Sa 09:00-17:00. Located in Baroque palace. Has been arranged as a memorial home of famous Lithuanian poet and priest Maironis. The museum houses huge collection of books, manuscripts, art works, and memorial items. Adult €2, child €1, photo permit €3, English or Russian guided tour €2.90.
- 9 St. Francis Xavier Church, Rotuses sq. 9. The construction of 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 organised in the church.
- 10 Perkunas' House, Aleksoto g. 6. One of the most beautiful secular so called "flaming" Gothic building (House of Thunder) in Lithuania. The building belongs to the Jesuit order, and a small museum of Lithuanian and Polish poet Adomas Mickevicius (Adam Mickewicz) is opened inside.
- 11 Vytautas' Church (Church of the Assumption of Holy Virgin Mary), Aleksoto g.3. Gothic brick church built in 1400 for the Franciscan monks. It's suffered repeatedly from river floods, occupying armies and religious upheavals, but since 1919 has been Roman Catholic.
- 12 Vytautas the Great Bridge (Aleksotas Bridge). This connects the Old Town and Aleksotas district. The present bridge was built in 1930, wrecked in the war and rebuilt in 1948, with reconstruction in 2005. The previous bridge was a wooden affair, built in 1812 and used by Napoleon’s Army retreating from Russia. It was said in those days that it must be very long since it took 13 days to cross: the Old Town was part of Russia and used the Julian or Slavic calendar, whilst Aleksotas district on the south bank was in Poland and used the Gregorian or Catholic calendar. So you arrived 13 days after you set off.
- 13 Aleksotas Funicular. Closed. At the south end of Vytautas bridge is this funicular, built in 1935 to connect the Old Town with Aleksotas district up the hill. Alas it's closed.
- 14 Evangelic Lutheran Church, Karaliaus Mindaugo av. 3. A small church located on the right bank of the Nemunas river in so-called Germans quarter of the Old Town is in Baroque and Romanticism styles. The church was built in 1682-83.
- Napoleon's House is next to the Lutheran Church on Muitines g. 8. This 16th century brick building is named for Napoleon Bonaparte, who stayed here in June 1812. Its eastern annexe has a beautiful staircase, an example of Fachverk, a German architectural style rare in Lithuania. But it's nowadays part of the University Faculty of Humanities and you can't routinely visit.
- 15 St. Michael Church and Benedictine Convent, Benediktiniu g. 8. The church is a fine example of 15th-century Gothic sacral building that is only with asymmetric layout in Lithuania. The church and convent complex are on Benediktiniu g. at the north-east part of Kaunas Old Town. It is reachable on foot by crossing busy Saukliu g. from Kaunas castle side.
- 16 Jewellery (Gemmology) Museum (Brangakmenių muziejus), L. Zamenhofo g. / Kurpių g. 13 (Old Town between Nemunas river and Vilnius Street), ☏ +370 37 227 780. M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-16:00. Small private museum with rare minerals & precious stones from around the world. €2.
Central / New Town
The Old Town ends at the boulevard of Gimnazijos gatvė. East of there, Laisvės alėja is the pedestrianised boulevard that stretches for 2 km forming the spine of the New Town. (In early 2019 much of it is one big mess, with excavations and construction barriers.) It's lined by linden trees, seating and flower beds, and dotted with shops, banks, supermarkets, restaurants, a cinema, casinos, nightclubs, museums, places to stay and a central post office. It is kept clean, and in winter free of snow, and is a great place to spend time. In the late morning and afternoon various stalls sell foods, souvenirs, and so on. The pedestrian strip ends at the Church of St Michael the Archangel.
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- 17 Historical Presidential Palace, Vilniaus g. 33. Tu W & F–Su 11:00-17:00, Th 11:00-19:00. Lithuania was first independent from 1918 until 1940, when the Soviets crushed the "First Republic". This neo-baroque palace was home to its presidents. It houses furniture, artwork and other material from the period. €5, €2.50 for ISIC card holders.
- 18 St. Gertrude Church, Laisves aleja 101A. 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 Gothic style.
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Romas Kalanta
A high school student, Romas Kalanta is well known for his public first self-immolation protesting 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' death provoked the largest post-war riots in Lithuania. On May 18 and 19, 1972 the gathered 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 reacted as well. R. Kalanta became a symbol of the Lithuanian resistance throughout the 1970s and 1980s. |
- 19 The 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 self-immolated himself protesting the Soviet oppression on 14 May 1972.
- 20 Vytautas' Monument. 24 hours daily. Located on Laisvės alėja, near the Kaunas city municipality building. The monument to Vytautas the Great - the most famous ruler of medieval Lithuania was erected in 1930. It was demolished by the Soviets and then re-erected in 1990.
- 21 The Synagogue, E. Ožeskienes g. 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 reformist decorative style of synagogues of that time. The façade of the synagogue is reminiscent of a neobaroque church. Its dome was rebuilt some years ago. There is an exposition of rabbis' paintings on the second floor of the Synagogue.
- 22 Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum, Laisves aleja, 106. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00. 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. Adult €3, child €1, English tour €20.
- 23 Church of St Michael the Archangel (Garrison Church; Soboras). This beautiful domed building closes off the prospect down Laisves Aleja. Opened in 1895, it was built in neo-Byzantine style for Russian soldiers based here - and to remind the townsfolk who was in charge. However the main reason to visit is the Catacombs (accessible M-F 08:00-15:00). You descend a spiral staircase into total darkness then feel your way through an underground obstacle course, eventually re-ascending a similar staircase into the light. It started out as an art installation but is now run by the Museum for the Blind, donations welcome. Not for the fainthearted, small children or anyone with difficulty moving around.
- 24 Kaunas M. Žilinskas Picture Gallery, Nepriklausomybes sq.12. Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 (Th until 19:00). Contemporary building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja, near the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Gallery houses 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, 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 naked man - a place for youth meetings and artistic performances. €3.
- 25 Kaunas Officers' Club, A. Mickevičiaus g. 19. One of the finest examples of Kaunas Interbellum architecture (Karininkų Ramovė in Lithuanian), especially from the inside, built in 1937. The main façade is adorned by the granite sculpture Three Giants that became a symbol of the Club. On the main - second floor of the building the Grand Hall, as well as Hall of Vytautas, so called Hall of Dukes, and 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 glass. Good quality cuisine pizzeria is situated on the first floor of the club.
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- 26 Vytautas the Great War Museum, K. Donelaicio g. 64. Tu-Su 11:00-17:00. An interactive exposition of 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 (see the 10 Litas note) are displayed. The crypt For Those Who Died for the Freedom of Lithuania is available to visit beneath the floor of the museum. Adult €2, child or student €1.
- In the square just outside the War Museum, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal flame. The Carillon or campanile first rang out in 1937; it was restored in 2006 and now has 49 bells. It plays the Lithuanian folk melody of wartime each noon, and there are Carillon concerts on Saturday and Sunday at 16:00 in the adjacent Gardens.
- 27 The Bank of Lithuania, Maironio g.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. Very impressive architecture of neoclassicism style. One may purchase Lithuanian collector coins there.
- 28 M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum, V. Putvinskio g. 55. Tu–Su 11:00-17:00 (Th until 19:00), closed holidays. Museum collects, keeps, investigates and popularizes the creative works of Lithuania's most famous artist and composers, M.K. Čiurlionis' (1875–1911), and the cultural heritage of Lithuania and the world. Some art critics call M.K. Ciurlionis the pioneer of abstract art. His creations combine symbolism, secessio, abstractionism and romanticism. €4.
- 29 Devils' Museum, V. Putvinskio g.64, ☏ +370 37 221 587. Tu-Su 11:00-17:00 (Th until 19:00). Contains the Lithuanian artist' A. Zmuidzinavicius collection of sculptures and carvings of devils, and a unique collection of devils from the whole world. €3.
- 30 Žaliakalnis Funicular, V. Putvinskio street. M-F 07:00-19:00; Sa Su 09:00-19:00.. 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 panelled 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. €0.50-0.58.
- 31 Church of the Resurrection. 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 Church of the Resurrection. 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. One of the attendants at least will insist on selling you only the stairs tickets but then let you use the lift! Spectacular views of Kaunas and beyond. The church is also open to visitors. If you arrive too early and the terrace is not open then carry on north-west along Žemaičiu street and at the junction you'll find an IKI supermarket that has a coffee bar/restaurant upstairs.
- 32 Nemunas Island Park (Nemunos salos parkas). Accessed across a footbridge at the southern end of S. Daukanto pedestrian street. A huge open space minutes from the bustle of Laisvės Alėja. A great place to sledge when there is snow and of course the place to leave your padlocks. The largest indoor arena in the Baltic states, Žalgirio Arena (see separate listing in the "Do" section), is on the eastern part of the island. Since its opening in August 2011, it has hosted numerous sports events and concerts.
- 33 Kaunas Orthodox Cathedral, Vytauto av. 38. The Orthodox the Annunciation Cathedral as well as smaller Orthodox church located nearby, forms 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 on the area of the local Orthodox cemetery and since 1923 till 1935 acted as Lithuanian Orthodox Cathedral. free.
- 34 Stumbras Museum, K. Bugos g. 7. M-F 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 call +370 686 94388 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.
- 35 The Mosque, Totoriu g.3. The only style building and in Lithuania Eastern, a mosque of bricks located in the northern corner of the Ramybes park of Kaunas downtown. It was rebuilt in bricks in 1930, in commemoration of Vytautas the Great 500th anniversary of his death.
- 36 Museum of Deportation and Resistance, Vytauto av. 46, ☏ +370 37 323 179. Tu-F 10:00-16:00. The museum is sacred to the memory of victims of Soviet regime and Forest Brothers who fought for Freedom of Lithuania. Museum is set on the western part of Ramybes park. Entrance and excursion guide are free of charge..
Further out
- 37 The House of Sugihara, Vaizganto g. 30. The memorial exhibition located in quiet residential area of Žaliakalnis is functioning in the building where before World War II, The Japanese consulate's vice-concul 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.
- 38 Ažuolynas Park. Named after the old Oak-wood tree park, it is in Žaliakalnis residential district easily reachable from the downtown area by some staircases or buses #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaičio g.) 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 the world aviation on July 15, 1933. Their research aircraft that crossed the Atlantic, crashed under mysterious circumstances close to its destination, Kaunas. At the eastern part of the park, Kaunas Zoo entrance is set.
- 39 Lithuanian Zoo Park. 09:00-17:00. The only zoo garden in Lithuania was established in an Ažuolynas 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. Adult €5, child €3.
- 40 Lithuania's Museum of Aviation, Veiveriu g. 132 (Museum is reachable from the city central bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105). M-Sa 9:00-17:00. Museum is in 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. Tickets: adult €1.60, child €0.80; flight simulator 15 min €1.20; guided excursion €6.00.
- 41 Kaunas Botanical Garden, Z. E. Zilibero g. 6. The garden is one of the most beautiful sites of nature in Kaunas comprises the area of 62.5 hectares with greenhouses founded in 1923. The labyrinthes, little zoo, mythological track, and car parking are also attainable at the garden.
- 42 Napoleon's Hill. Actually the Jiesia river hill, located on the left bank of the Nemunas river, between the Panemune residential neighborhood and 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.
- 43 9th Fort Museum, Žemaičių av. 73 (5 km north of centre). Tu-Su 10:00-18:00. Kaunas Fortress was a colossal military defensive complex encircling the city, with ten forts built by the Russians 1882-1915 to protect their empire from the growing power of Germany. But when World War I came, after 11 days of assault the forts surrendered; so the Fortress had impeded the enemy advance but proved far from impregnable. From 1920 much of it was demolished or turned over to other state use. The Ninth Fort was the best preserved and was put to horrific use during the Nazi occupation of 1941-44. You enter via the Exposition of Occupations which has the ticket office, and documents the wartime terrors, and the ensuing Soviet terror under Stalin. You then visit the 9th Fort and the 32m high memorial to the victims; the fort tunnels can only be seen by special tour. Adult €3, concs €1.50, child 0-6 free.
- 44 Pažaislis Monastery and Church. Tu-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 10:00-16:00. Pažaislis monastery complex was built by Italian architects, whereas sculptors from Lombardy took care of the frescos and plaster casts. They form the largest monastery and church complex in Lithuania, and is one of the most magnificent examples of Italian baroque architecture in Eastern Europe. Pažaislis camaldolese monastery is on the bank of Kaunas Reservoir. Adult €4, student or senior €2, child free.
- 45 Kaunas reservoir. The Pažaislis monastery is on 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 large Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant, which is near confluence of Kaunas Reservoir with small Strėva river, at distance of about 25 km east from Kaunas.
Do
Events
Regular fairs, festivals and events confirmed for 2019 include:
- Kaunas Jazz was on 24–28 April 2019, dates for 2020 haven't been announced.
- Birthday of Kaunas city is 17–19 May 2019.
- Pažaislis Music festival is held June - Aug in the city and surrounding region.
- Operetta in Kaunas Castle, various dates in June and July.
- Kaunas International Film Festival is 26 Sept - 6 Oct 2019.
- International Modern Dance Festival is 5-7 Oct 2019.
Theatres
- 1 Kauno Musical Theatre, Laisves aleja 91. Variety of classical opera and operetta plays in original language. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
- 2 Kaunas State Drama Theatre, Laisvės alėja, 71. Shows drama performances.
- 3 Kaunas Pantomime Theatre, M. Dauksos g. 34. The only theatre in Lithuania of that kind.
- 4 Kaunas Chamber Theater, Kestucio g. 74A. Near Musical theatre, it is small, but yet well known drama theatre.
- 5 Kaunas Modern Dance Theatre Aura, M. Dauksos g. 30A. In the Old Town. The only theatre of Contemporary art of dance in whole country.
- 6 Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra, Ožeškienės st. 12, Kaunas. The orchestra play at Kaunas Philharmonic which is within the former Lithuanian Parliament House.
- 7 Vytautas Magnus University Grand Hall, S. Daukanto g.28. Near the Laisves aleja and Vienybes Sq. in the center of the city, it is home for various events, for instance, Kaunas Jazz festival.
- 8 Kaunas Puppet Theater, Laisves aleja, 87A. Cosy theatre, plays for children with small museum of puppets inside. Located near Musical theatre.
Cinemas
- There are two multiplex cinemas in Kaunas, Cinamon in the Mega shopping complex, and Forum cinemas in Akropolis.
- Lithuania's oldest cinema Romuva, at Laisves aleja, 54, is only open for special events such as the film festival (see "Events" above).
Sports
Sports and leisure centres are found throughout Kaunas offering swimming pools, sports courts, fields and exercise equipment.
- 9 [dead link] Dariaus ir Girėno Sports Complex, Perkuno g. 5 (sports complex is accessible by from city center by bus #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaicio g.) or #38,43 (from Vytauto av.) or by taxi (be aware, there is a shortage of parking lots near the Dariaus ir Girėno sports center)), ☏ +370 37 777 589, llaf2009@gmail.com. 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, 3 Lithuanian Football Cup titles after the restoration independence of Lithuania in 1990. Dariaus and Girėno stadium, near the Ažuolynas park, is also used as AAF Accredited Training Centre in Kaunas. Stadium capacity is up to 10,000 seats. Sports complex also includes adjacent Kaunas Sports Hall, which had been the city's largest arena for sports and events before the 2011 opening of Žalgirio Arena (see below). Built in 1939, it was Europe's first arena built specifically for basketball. Capacity is 5,000. Nearby is the Lithuania's only institution devoted to higher education in physical education - Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education.
- 10 Žalgirio Arena, Karaliaus Mindaugo pr. 50, ☏ +370 37 354 403 (tickets), kasa@zalgirioarena.lt. The largest indoor arena in the Baltics, with a capacity of over 15,500 for basketball and up to 20,000 for concerts. Since its opening, it has been home to BC Žalgiris, one of Europe's most storied basketball clubs.
- Elnias Golf Club. Set at Didziosios Lapes settlement, the first golf club in Lithuania, opened in 2000, is famous as sports activity, and also as a place where hundreds of deers are kept. Golf club is reachable if going by regional route #232 on the left side of Neris river from Kaunas' Vilijampole district to Zeimiai town.
- 11 Žalgiris Sports Club, A. ir J. Gravrogku g. 4 (near the shopping center Molas), ☏ +370 37 351 616, +370 604 03177. M-F 08:00-22:00, Sa Su 08:00-20:00. 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.
- 12 Kaunas Air Club. Flights with small planes or gliders, parachute jumping are available at Kaunas Darius and Girenas airport, accessible from the city central bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.
- 13 Linija, Taikos av. 44A. M-F 07:00-22:00, Sa Su 09:00-21:00. One of the oldest wellness center in Kaunas offers swimming zone with pools and saunas, 3 floors of gyms, as well as 2 halls of group exercises. Additional services are available.
- 14 Notas Tennis Club, Veiveriu g. 151. In Aleksotas, near Darius and Girenas airport, tennis club tenders 6 tennis courts.
- 15 Kart Racing Sports Center, Raudondvario g. 105, ☏ +370 671 111 66, kartodromas@zebra.lt. Tu-Su 14:00-20:00. In the western part of Kaunas, Vilijampole district, Kart Center offers to the public small, open, four-wheeled karts fo leisure as well as for kart racing. Standard price for 10 min. of leisure Tony kart Viper limited to speeds of 60 km/h (37 mph). For kart racing center there is a kart school open on Sundays.
- 16 Kaunas Yacht Club, M. Gimbutienes g.35. Set on the shore of Kaunas Reservoir, near the beautiful Pazaislis park, 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.
- 17 Legionas Paintball Club, Europos av.34-62, ☏ +370 687 22333, fax: +370 37 311 809, info@legionas.lt. Club offers to play, for women and men, the paintball - game in which players fight to eliminate opponents by hitting them with pellets containing paint. The club also tender to spend leisure time by playing an airsoft. Both games are played in Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park, in the territory of Kaunas Fortress' 5th fort.
Beaches
There are some beaches on the banks of Nemunas river, shores of Lampedziai lake and Kaunas Reservoir. Beaches are open in summer time.
- 18 Panemunes Park Beach. 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 shopping center "Molas" (K. Barsausko g.), you should go by A. ir J. Gravrogku g. and then by pedestrian bridge across the Nemunas river or by car or taxi from the city center. It‘s a popular place to visit.
- 19 Lampedžiai Lake Beach. Is set in the western part of Kaunas. It is a small lake surrounded by Lampedziai park that attract a lot of locals in summer time. Beach is reachable by car, taxi, or buses #48 (runs from Kaunas castle bus stop) or #9 (runs from Silainiai residential district).
- 20 Kaunas Reservoir Beach. 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 (summer time 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 confluence of Reservoir with small Strėva river, at distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.
Learn
Kaunas is known as a city of students. Some of Kaunas' universities, listed below, attract students from abroad for good quality, yet inexpensive studies.
- Vytautas Magnus University. Founded in 1922 as a national university, it is named after Vytautas the Great, the most famous XVth century Lithuanian ruler. University is one of the leading universities of Lithuania - K. Donelaičio g. 58.
- Kaunas University of Technology - the largest technical university in the Baltic States - K. Donelaičio g. 73. (central administration).
- Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education – the only institution of tertiary physical education in Lithuania - Sporto g. 6.
- Kaunas University of Medicine - A. Mickeviciaus g. 9.
- Kaunas Art Institute - Muitines g. 4.
Buy
The best known grocery stores are: Maxima, IKI, Rimi, Norfa, Šilas, Samsonas and Senukai (household goods). There are also a lot 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.
What to buy
- 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 g. 29, at the eastern part of Kaunas).
- 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.
- Flax (linas) products - high quality and old traditions.
- Mead (midus) - original national beverage made of vodka, some herbs and with honey flavour and taste. Not to be confused with medus, which is honey in Lithuanian.
- Cottage cheese - lots of variations.
- Amber (gintaras), so called "Lithuanian gold", decorations.
- Linen or wooden dolls - for children.
Where to buy
Within Kaunas there are several malls which are usually open from 08:09 until 24:00. Most shopping centers have dozens or more stores, 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.
- 1 Mega, Islandijos pl. 32. A huge shopping complex just outside the city centre 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. You can even watch them feed the fish (twice a day in the week, once at weekends). Served by bus #38 and #21 from the city centre (journey time about 20 minutes).
- 2 Akropolis. 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.
- 3 Urmas, Pramonės pr. 16. “Urmas” shopping area located at the eastern part of the city, comprises more than 65,000 m², and, 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. Area is decorated by antique passenger train from the beginning of the XX century. The train is adapted to trading activities & catering services. Urmas center features a 2.500 parking lot which surrounds all galleries. Urmas shopping area is reachable from the city center by taxi, minibus #99 or troleybuses #15,16.
- 4 [dead link] Molas, K. Baršausko g. 66A. A department store Maxima, around 50 groceries, bookstores, opticians, some restaurants, pizzerias, branches of commercial banks, a bowling alley, tables of snooker and pool.
- 5 Savas, Savanoriu av. 346. A lot of stores, including huge RimiHypermarket, service center, coffee-house, pizzerias, and more.
- 6 Hyper Maxima, Savanoriu av. 255. Some restaurants, including self-service Delano restaurant with decorative windmill on the outside, more than 40 other shops and services available.
Eat
Lithuanian dishes aren't that easy to find around the world so why not try some of them now when you have the opportunity? Of course, European, Asian, French, Italian, Russian and other cuisines are available at Kaunas' restaurants.
Budget
- 1 Spurginė, Laisvės aleja, 84. M-Sa 08:30-20:00, Su 10:00-19:00. One of the last places in Kaunas making the traditional Lithuanian doughnut, known as a spurga.
- 2 Sushi Express, Laisves aleja, 12A (west end, near park). Daily 10:00-22:00. Japanese fast food restaurant offers more than 30 sushi, maki, sashimi dishes, vegetarians as well.
- 3 Radharanė, Laisvės aleja, 40. Daily 11:00-21:00. Restaurant in the city centre, offering vegetarian Indian food at very reasonable prices.
- 4 Arena Pizza, Savanoriu av. 363. Offers a huge range of pizzas and side dishes at good prices.
- Hesburger, Laisves aleja 48; also at Mega shopping mall, Vilniaus g.43, and Pramones avenue, 6A; (the last one - with Drive-in).. Finnish chain with several outlets, a bit like McDonald's.
- 5 Arbatinė (Vilties vaistinės Arbatinė), Laisves aleja, 99A. M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00. Vegan cafe in front of Vytautas monument.
Mid-range
- 6 Kavos Kerai, Vilniaus str 60. M-F 08:00-21:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00. Pleasant place for coffee & cakes, next to gardens of Former Presidential Palace. Expresso €1.20 a shot.
- 7 Bernelių Užeiga, M. Valančiaus g. 9. Traditional Lithuanian fare, soup in bowls made of bread and home brewed beer. Cosy and atmospheric and very convenient for Old Town. Another branch at K. Donelaičio g. 11.
- Alkava, A. Mickeviciaus g.40, Varniu g. 24 and other outlets in shopping malls.. Chain confectioneries with wide arrangement of patisserie and coffee.
- 8 Miesto Sodas (City Garden), Laisves aleja, 93. Su-Tu 11:00-22:00, W Th 11:00-23:00, Sa Su 11:00-00:00. Good restaurant offering European cuisine.
- 9 Bella Italia (formerly Bella Toscana), S. Daukanto g.14, Vilniaus g. 74. Su-Th 09:00-00:00, F Sa 09:00-01:00. A cup of nice latte, pizzas and pasta.
- 10 Milano, A. Mickeviciaus g. 19. Su-Th 09:00-00:00, F Sa 09:00-01:00. Quality Italian pizzeria close to Laisves aleja.
- 55°, Laisves alėja, 79 (within Hotel Kaunas, see Sleep). M-F 11:00-23:00, Sa Su 11:00-23:00. 55° refers to the proof spirit of samane - moonshine vodka. The restaurant walls illustrate the process, but it doesn't look like any illicit distilling is going on, as reviewers use terms like "quiet" and "good for kids". Good selection of local and European cuisine.
- 11 Yakata, M. Valanciaus g. 14 (near castle). Su-Th 11:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-23:00. Japanese restaurant that also offers vegetarian and European dishes. Room and dishes often too cold, so are the reviews.
- 12 Chocolaterie CH, Rotuses sq. 26. M-Th 08:00-21:00, F Sa 08:00-23:00, Su 10:00-22:00. Chocolate restaurant that offers marvelous snacks, nice coffee, and a beautiful atmosphere in the heart of Old Town.
- Pas Stanley, Vilniaus g. 24 (Old Town). Su-W 10:00-00:00, Th 10:00-02:00, F Sa 10:00-04:00. Good food, reasonable prices in a family-run restaurant with a 1960s atmosphere.
- 13 Moksha, Vasario 16-osios g. 6 (New Town), ☏ +370 676 71649, kavine.moksha@gmail.com. M-F 11:00-21:00, Sa 12:00-21:00. Small cozy Indian cafe. Fresh food with vegan options, great service. €10-15.
Splurge
- 14 Bokštas (Bajorkiemis City), Kestucio g. 86 (corner of Kanto). Su-Tu 10:00-22:00, W-F 10:00-00:00, Sa 11:00-01:00. "Bokštas" means tower, ie on the city wall; it's near the Musical Theatre. European cuisine.
- 15 Gralis (The Grail), Trumpoji g. 10 (300 m north of Old Town). Daily 12:00-22:00. Four banqueting halls doing upscale Italian and other European cuisine,often booked out for events. Great views from the terrace over the river.
- 16 Medžiotojų užeiga (Hunter's Inn), Rotuses sq. 10. Daily 11:00-00:00. High quality game dishes in 4 sub-street halls, often booked out for events. Are the staff vegetarian? Because they're kinda miserable here.
- 17 Pompėja, V. Putvinskio g. 38 (University quarter north of centre). M-Th 10:00-22:00, F 10:00 thru Sa 00:00, Su 12:00-21:00. Named for Pompeii, it does Med cuisine, but has little vegetarian choice.
- 18 Senieji rūsiai (The Old Cellars), Vilniaus g. 34. Daily 11:00-00:00. Upscale restaurant in three old storage cellars: "Napoleon's Hall", "Nobles' Hall" and "Hall of Guns". Live music on weekends, wide-ranging menu, and extensive wine-list. They're aiming for splurge and plush, but widescreen basketball??
Drink
Beer (Alus in Lithuanian). Utenos, Švyturys and Horn are brands worth trying. Expect to pay around €1.50 per 0.5 l in tourist bars and restaurants, or around €1 in local bars.
- 1 rePUBlic No 1, Laisves av. 57 (Near the center fountain), ☏ +370 61443444, info@pub.lt. Su-Th 11:00-02:00, F Sa 11:00-06:00. RePUBlic is Kaunas' answer to the traditional London pub. More than 20 varieties of beer on tap and more than 40 varieties of bottled beer from Lithuania and across Europe; plus 30 whiskeys and various Lithuanian liquors.
- 2 rePUBlic No.3, Vilniaus g. 10, ☏ +370 61213111, info@pub.lt. M-Th 16:00-02:00, F 16:00-05:00, Sa 12:00-05:00, Su 12:00-02:00. In Old Town RePUBlic No.2 has closed, but its clone RePUBlic No 3 continues nearby, a smaller version of No 1.
- 3 Avilys, Vilniaus g. 34. Su-Th 12:00-00:00, F Sa 12:00-02:00. A great place to get a beer - all home brewed - but does not allow children in. The restaurant serves beer-based dishes such as soups and desserts.
- 4 B.O. (Blue Orange), Muitines g. 9. Daily 17:00-02:00. Very popular bar among local students. Tender friendly atmosphere, good beer, and rock music on 2 floors in 8 halls.
- 5 Kauno alus, Savanoriu av.7. M-F 09:00-18:00. Branded pub of local brewery. Very fresh stock, brewery tours available.
- 6 Buon giorno, Vilniaus g.34 / L. Zamenhofo g. 13. Daily 09:00-21:00. Italian food and wine bar in Old Town.
- 7 W 1640, Kurpiu g.29 (corner of Birštono g). Th 19:00-02:00, F Sa 19:00-05:00. Whisky bar and shop with more than 150 varieties from 60 distilleries.
Nightclubs
- 8 Dzem'pub, Laisvės aleja, 59 (5th floor). Great for lovers of live alternative and rock music.
- 9 Žemyn upe, M. Valanciaus g. 24. F Sa 11:00-04:00, Th 11:00-03:00, Su-W 11:00-01:00. In the outskirts of the Old Town, nightclub welcomes fans of disco and pop music; European cuisine restaurant with homelike service is on the spot, as well as bathhouse, pool, and billiard room.
- 10 Nautilus, Savanoriu av. 124. Quality events on two floors.
Sleep
The number of places to stay grows every year. Also the choice of distinct types of accommodation increases as well. Despite that, in the summer it's recommended to book in advance.
Camping
- 1 Kaunas Camping, Jonavos g. 51A (North edge of town by motorway & Neris River), ☏ +370 618 09 407, fax: +370 37 321 648, asa@parkavimaskaune.lt. The site has places for 50 motor homes and an area to pitch tents. Electricity, laundry facilities are available. Reach Kaunas Old Town by Bus #20. Camping €5 per adult, €2 per child, €4.50 per pet; €19 for a cottage that sleeps up to 5 people.
Budget
- 2 The Monks' Bunk, Laisvės al. 48 (New Town), ☏ +370 620 99695, kaunashostel@gmail.com. Cheap, friendly, clean hostel in central Kaunas. No breakfast or meals included, but you can cook in a fully equipped kitchen. From €12 ppn.
- 3 Baltosios Bures, M. Gimbutienes g. 35 (6 km east of city), ☏ +370 37 370 467, fax: +370 37 370 415, info@jachtklubas.lt. Cheap motel beside Kaunas Yacht Club on the shore of Kaunas Reservoir in Pazaislis. Motel offers 35 double rooms with TV, Wi-Fi and showers. But no catering, nearby facilities or public transport, so come with supplies or eat en route. Satnav will misdirect you to the back gate, no entrance here. Double room only €40.
- 4 Kaunas City Hotel, Laisvės al. 90, ☏ +370 37 220 220, info@kaunascityhotel.com. Budget hotel offers 44 large rooms, a cafe, grocery store, Wifi & 24-hour reception. Good New Town location. B&B double from €45.
- 5 Guesthouse LT, Savanoriu av. 122A, ☏ +370 686 31 934, +370 37 335 014, frugis@takas.lt. 4-roomed guesthouse in north of city. No reviews since 2018, is it still open? B&B double from €40.
- 6 Musu Dvaras, Jonavos g. 43B (north edge of city by motorway), ☏ +370 37 422 728, +370 614 41 631, fax: +370 37 389 461. Edge-of-town hotel with 6 double rooms, restaurant, banquet hall and conference hall. No internet booking, phone & negotiate.
- 7 Apple Economy Hotel, M. Valančiaus g. 19, fax: +370 37321 404, info@applehotel.lt. Basic hotel in Old Town with 14 double rooms. No lift to upper floors. No catering bar sachets of instant coffee, head out to the many nearby cafes. Room only double €42.
- 8 Metropolis, S. Daukanto g. 21, ☏ +370 37 205 992, fax: +370 3720 6269, metropolis@greenhillhotel.lt. Charming old builing, now a good budget option very central in New Town. 74 rooms all en suite with TV & free Wifi. B&B double from €50.
- 9 Kaunas Archdiocese' Guesthouse, Rotuses sq.21, ☏ +370 37 322 597, fax: +370 37 320 090, sveciunamai@kn.lcn.lt. At the heart of the Old Town, the guesthouse offers 21 clean and modern room with Internet access. From €23.
Mid-range
- 10 Solo B&B, Dysnos 10 (1 km northeast of railway station), ☏ +370 687 54443, +370 37 743 839, info@solohotel.lt. Apartment accommodation in eastern edge of city in spacious private garden, friendly helpful landlord. B&B double from €40.
- 11 Babilonas Hotel, Žalioji g. 38A (Žaliakalnis district northeast of Old Town), ☏ +370 37 202 545, +370 37 209 156, babilonas@hotel.lt. Renovated hotel in quiet area, with 24 modern arranged rooms, a conference hall and a restaurant. Does bike rental and tours. B&B double from €50.
- 12 Regina Hotel, Strazdo g.62, ☏ +370 37 262 020, fax: +370 37 268 855, info@regina-hotel.lt. Small hotel located in quiet residential district of Vilijampole offers 10 comfortable rooms. B&B double from €45.
- 13 Sandija Motel, Jonavos g. 45 (north edge of city off Vilnius-Klaipėda motorway), ☏ +370 37 332 487, +370 616 48525, fax: +370 37 363 392, hotel@sandija.lt. With 26 modern rooms with wifi internet access and a lot of amenities. Handy for passing motorists. B&B double from €45.
- 14 Hotel Magnus, Vytauto pr. 25, ☏ +370 37 340 000, fax: +370 37 240 804, info@magnushotel.lt. 3-star hotel near main railway station, 82 rooms. Hotel has parking for 30 cars and at least 3 buses. B&B double from €50.
- 15 Ibis Kaunas Centre Hotel, Vytauto pr. 28, ☏ +370 37 265 600, fax: +370 37 265 666, h8622@accor.com. Check-in: 12:00, check-out: 12:00. Part of Accor chain, it offers 125 air-conditioned rooms with free Internet access, conference facilities and a restaurant. B&B double from €50.
- 16 Pažaislis Park Hotel, T.Masiulio g. 18E (6 km east of centre), ☏ +370 614 63664, fax: +370 37 351554, pphotel@hotmail.com. 3-star hotel with 10 rooms in Pažaislis entertainment & retail park near reservoir. With Svarstyklės European and Chinese restaurant. B&B double from €80.
- 17 Centre Hotel Nuova, Savanoriu pr. 66/Zemaiciu g. 31, ☏ +370 37 321 418, info@centrehotel.lt. Three-star hotel 500 m north of main boulevard of New Town. In quiet surroundings on Žaliakalnis hill yet just off Savanoriu Avenue. 28 rooms. B&B double from €50.
Splurge
- 18 Perkūno Namai Hotel, Perkuno av. 61 (east of centre, 500 m NE of railway station), ☏ +370 37 320 230, fax: +370 37 323 678, hotel@perkuno-namai.lt. 4 star hotel with 29 rooms, edge of town near extensive forest park. B&B double from €50.
- 19 Hotel Kaunas, Laisves Avenue 79, ☏ +370 37 750 850, fax: +370 37 750 851. 4 star central in New Town, 36 standard rooms (pay €10 to use fitness centre) and 40 de luxe. B&B double from €90.
- 20 Europa Royale Kaunas Hotel, Misko g. 11 (west of centre near railway & bus stations), ☏ +370 37 407 500, fax: +370 37 407 501, kaunas@europaroyale.com. 4-star hotel with 91 rooms near Akropolis shopping mall with lots of shops and restaurants. Free parking. It's often booked out for conferences. B&B double from €80.
- 21 Best Western Santakos Hotel, J. Gruodžio g. 21 (near Presidential Palace), ☏ +370 37 302 702, fax: +370 37 302 700, neris.sales@revalhotels.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Chain 4-star with 92 rooms, gets generally good reviews. Free parking. Nightclub and restaurant Europa is adjacent to the hotel. B&B double from €110.
- 22 [dead link] Best Baltic Hotel (Daniela), A. Mickevičiaus g. 28 (central, near corner of Kestucio), ☏ +370 37 321 505, fax: +370 37 321 632, daniela@danielahotel.lt. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Central 4-star hotel with 39 standard, 24 superior, 7 suites and 2 junior suites, 2 apartments and 1 VIP apartment. With Daniela Restaurant. B&B double from €70.
- 23 Park Inn by Radisson, K. Donelaicio g. 27, ☏ +370 37 306 100, fax: +370 37 306 200, info.kaunas@rezidorparkinn.com. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Kaunas’ largest hotel, 4 star in New Town with 208 rooms. Gets positive reviews for service and room comfort. Free Wifi, no pets. B&B double €80.
- 24 Daugirdas Hotel, T.Daugirdo g. 4, ☏ +370 37 301 561, fax: +370 37 301 562, hotel@daugirdas.lt. 4 star hotel, very central in Old Town in a restored 16th-19th C building, 48 rooms. No hotel parking. B&B double from €80.
- 25 Amberton Cozy Hotel, Rotušes sq. 5 / V. Kuzmos g. 8, ☏ +370 37 229 981, fax: +370 37 220 355, kaunas@klaipedahotel.lt. 4-star hotel with 28 rooms very central in Old Town. 4 floors but no lifts, and top floor rooms cramped by pitch of the roof. Cleanliness & service quality variable, but breakfast is consistently bad. B&B double from €80.
- 26 Hermis Hotel, Savanoriu av. 404 (NE edge of city near A1 / A6 jcn), ☏ +370 37 490 300, fax: +370 37 490 301, info@hermishotel.lt. 4-star hotel, 4 km from centre but on bus routes, handy for motorists.Seven rooms with Italian restaurant Portofino, wellness center, conference hall, free parking. B&B double from €80.
Stay safe
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 of the central train station there is a "Station market“ - a rough area, especially on evenings. The baggage lockers in Kaunas railway station are a cheap and secure place to store bags and other items.
Cope
Internet
Free Wi-Fi hotspots all over the city, especially in restaurants. There is free Wi-Fi available on all Laisves aleja.
Hospitals
Kaunas' hospitals offer generally high quality services at a small price if compare to the cost of a Western hospital. Probably the best-regarded is:
- 3 Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital, Eivieniu g. 2, ☏ +370 37 326 375, fax: +370 37 326 427. The largest medical institution in Lithuania. It was established in 1939 as major hospital complex built near the 7 th fort. The hospital was designed by the French architects Urbain Cassan and Elie Ouchanoff.
Go next
- You simply have to see Vilnius for its elegant old town. It can be done as a day-trip from Kaunas but deserves several days to explore.
- Birštonas is a spa resort 30 km south of Kaunas, set on a forested riverside.
- The Open Air Museum of Lithuania is 18 km east of Kaunas in Rumšiškės.
- Zapyškis, 17 km west, has the gothic St. John Baptist Church, often used in summer for concerts and cultural events.
- Lokes peda or "Bear Foot" is an activity park 35 km northeast, near Jonava.
- Druskininkai is a spa town town 50 km south, near the border with Belarus.