15 Best things to do in Kaunas, Lithuania, in 1 day

Introduction

In June 2022, we made a 2-week road trip in the Baltic States. We started in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, rented a car, and explored as much as we could on the way to Tallinn (Estonia) while stopping by Latvia.

Kaunas was our third stop. We drove from Vilnius to Kaunas in the morning and spent the afternoon visiting the second-biggest city of Lithuania, with 339,000 inhabitants.

Kaunas is also the Baltic states’ most important port and has a few nice places to see. But half a day was quite enough for us.

If you too, are planning a trip to the Baltic states and to Kaunas, you will most probably stop by Kaunas on your way to the coast. Let‘s dive into the best things to do in Kaunas.

Read: The Perfect 2-Week Baltic States Itinerary

Getting there

The easiest way to reach Kaunas is by car. It’s a straightforward 1 h 15 min drive (about 105 km) from Vilnius via a well-maintained main road that directly connects the two cities. But if you’re not renting a car, public transportation is also a convenient option:

• By train: Direct trains run regularly between Vilnius and Kaunas. The journey takes between 1 hour and 1h30, depending on the service, and tickets cost around €6 to €10. There are about 10 departures per day.
• By bus: Buses are frequent and slightly cheaper than trains. The fastest routes take around 1h20, and they also run several times throughout the day.
• By plane: Kaunas does have a small airport located south of the city, but it’s mostly served by budget airlines and international flights. For domestic travel from Vilnius, land transport remains the best option.

Moving Around

You can explore most of the best things to do in Kaunas on foot, especially if you’re staying in or near the city center. The Old Town and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy and enjoyable to wander around. However, a couple of attractions sit farther out and require a bit of planning:

• Pazaislis Monastery – Located about 50 minutes away by bus from the city center, this baroque masterpiece is worth the detour if you have time.
• Ninth Fort Museum – Around 40 minutes by bus, this powerful historical site sheds light on Lithuania’s 20th-century struggles.

If you have a rental car, these are quick side trips, but public transportation is also reliable and easy to use.

If you want to get around the city without always walking, you can easily use the Kaunas public transport.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

You can visit Kaunas all year round, but your experience will vary a lot depending on the season. Like the rest of Lithuania, Kaunas experiences significant changes in both temperatures and daylight hours — from warm 30°C summers to freezing -25°C winters, and from 18 hours of daylight in June to just 4 hours in December.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit Kaunas. As the city shakes off winter, parks, riversides, and pedestrian streets begin to bloom. Temperatures rise steadily from around 5°C to 18°C, making it ideal for outdoor strolls along Laisvės Alėja or around the Old Town. In April and May, the city feels fresh and relaxed, with fewer tourists and more locals enjoying the sunshine. It’s a great season to visit museums, churches, and botanical gardens.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is the liveliest time in Kaunas, with long sunny days (up to 18 hours of daylight) and temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. Open-air events, food markets, riverside bars, and festivals bring a vibrant energy to the city. This is also the best time for boat rides on the Nemunas River or exploring nearby nature. July and August are popular with both locals and visitors, while June often has the best balance of great weather and fewer crowds.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Kaunas is peaceful and colorful, as the city’s many trees burst into gold and red hues. September is still warm (15°C–20°C), perfect for relaxed sightseeing and cultural events. By late October, temperatures drop and the days shorten quickly. It’s a cozy season to visit galleries, cafés, and enjoy local comfort food. Museums and attractions remain open, but outdoor life starts to wind down.
• Winter (December to February): Kaunas becomes a quiet, snow-dusted city in winter. With daytime temperatures often below freezing — and sometimes as low as -25°C — you’ll want to bundle up for your explorations. The city feels festive in December thanks to Christmas markets and lights around Town Hall Square. January and February are colder and quieter, ideal if you prefer fewer crowds. Keep in mind that daylight is very limited in this season (around 4–6 hours a day), and walking paths can be icy.

For the best overall experience, we recommend visiting Kaunas in late spring (May) or early summer (June) — when the weather is pleasant, the days are long, and the city feels relaxed and alive.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

We personally stayed one night in Kaunas, and for us, that was just the right amount of time to see the highlights of the city without feeling rushed. Whether you’re stopping for a night on a longer Baltic road trip or spending a weekend exploring, here are some great accommodation options for every budget:

(€) LLaisves ave. Apartments Mini – A compact and affordable stay right on the city’s main pedestrian street. Perfect if you’re just spending the night and want a central location.

(€€) Laisves ave. Apartments – A bit more spacious and equally well-located, these apartments are ideal for couples or small families looking for comfort and convenience.

(€€€) Radisson Hotel Kaunas – A modern 4-star hotel with all the amenities you’d expect: gym, restaurant, spa, and secure parking. A great choice if you want a more luxurious stay without leaving the city center.

We booked through Booking.com for all our stays in Lithuania — super easy to use and often with free cancellation!

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

What to Eat

If you’re looking to try something local and vegetarian-friendly in Kaunas, we personally recommend Vilties vaistinės arbatinė. It’s a small, humble local spot with a friendly atmosphere and hearty Lithuanian dishes — all meat-free. We tried the beetroot soup, traditional dumplings, and a flavorful lentil stew. Everything felt homemade and comforting, making it a great place for a casual, authentic meal.

Before leaving the city, we also stopped at Kepyklėlė, a charming local bakery, to grab some sweet and savory buns for the road — perfect road trip snacks!

Best things to do Kaunas

Step Back in Time at the Ninth Fort of Kaunas

When we first arrived in Kaunas, our journey began with a meaningful stop at the Ninth Fort, just outside the city center. Even though we visited on a Monday — the one day the museum inside the prison is closed — we still highly recommend going. The site is extensive, and you can freely walk around the massive memorial complex and the outer grounds of the fort.

The place itself carries deep historical weight. Originally part of the Kaunas Fortress built in the late 19th century, the Ninth Fort later served as a prison under Soviet occupation and, tragically, as an execution site during the Nazi occupation of Lithuania. Over 50,000 people — primarily Jews, Soviet POWs, and others — were murdered here.

Today, the towering memorial and surrounding grounds offer space for reflection and remembrance. While we were there, we even saw a group of local students rehearsing a play nearby, giving the place a quiet sense of life and resilience.

Whether you’re a history lover or simply want to better understand Lithuania’s past, the Ninth Fort is well worth a visit — even outside museum hours.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Admire the Architecture of St. Michael the Archangel’s Church

Also known as the Garrison Church, St. Michael the Archangel’s Church is a striking landmark located at the eastern end of Laisvės alėja, the main pedestrian street of Kaunas. Built between 1891 and 1895 during the time when Kaunas was part of the Russian Empire, the church stands out for its Neo-Byzantine architecture, grand dome, and ornate interior.

Originally constructed as a Russian Orthodox church to serve the imperial garrison stationed in Kaunas Fortress, it was later converted into a Roman Catholic church. Its sheer size and distinct design make it one of the most photogenic and iconic buildings in the city.

It’s a perfect spot to pause as you stroll Laisvės alėja, and whether you admire it from the outside or step inside to see the interior, it’s a must-see on your Kaunas itinerary.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Stroll Along Laisvės Alėja – The Heartbeat of Kaunas

Laisvės Alėja, which translates to Liberty Boulevard or Liberty Avenue, is the main pedestrian artery of Kaunas and one of the most pleasant spots to explore in the city. Stretching over 1.6 kilometers, it connects St. Michael the Archangel’s Church at one end to the Old Town at the other.

What makes it special? Not only is it the longest pedestrian street in Eastern Europe, but it’s also completely car-free and shaded by trees on both sides, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for strolling.

The boulevard is lined with cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and bookstores, making it a great place to pause for coffee or do a bit of people-watching. Whether you’re starting your day here or ending your afternoon with a walk toward the Old Town, Laisvės Alėja is a central part of any visit to Kaunas.

Check our Google Map of the Baltic States

Stop by the Great War Museum – History and Architecture in One Place

The Vytautas the Great War Museum is a noteworthy stop while exploring Kaunas, whether you’re planning to visit inside or simply admire its architecture from the outside. Located just off Laisvės Alėja, the building itself stands out with its Art Deco and early Functionalist style, making it an eye-catching landmark for architecture lovers.

If you decide to go in, the museum offers a deep dive into Lithuania’s military history, displaying artefacts from prehistoric times to the modern day, with a particular focus on Lithuania’s struggle for independence and the two world wars. The surrounding square is also home to the Statue of Liberty and an eternal flame, commemorating those who died for Lithuanian freedom.

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious to learn more about Lithuania’s past, the museum offers a meaningful and educational break during your walk through the city.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Hunt for Street Art – Spot the Pink Elephant

One of the coolest and most unexpected things to do in Kaunas is simply to stroll around and discover its vibrant street art scene. The city is known for embracing urban creativity, and you’ll spot large murals and clever pieces scattered across old walls, underpasses, and even rooftops.

Our favorite? Definitely the Pink Elephant mural. Located on an old, crumbling wall, this oversized, bright pink elephant stands out in the best way possible. It’s quirky, surreal, and instantly iconic — a must-see for anyone exploring Kaunas.

This street art treasure hunt adds a playful and modern twist to your visit, blending the city’s historical past with its lively artistic energy. Keep your eyes open — Kaunas has many more murals waiting to be found!

Glimpse at the Former Presidential Palace – A Touch of Interwar Elegance

This elegant neo-baroque building served as the Presidential Palace of Lithuania during the interwar years, when Kaunas was the country’s temporary capital (1919–1940). Today, it’s part of the M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum and showcases exhibitions related to Lithuanian art, culture, and political history.

It’s not a must-do, but it’s definitely worth a quick stop as you walk between the old town and the city center. The building itself is beautifully maintained, and the small park in front of it makes for a peaceful rest spot. If you’re into history or architecture, a short pop-in can add an extra layer to your Kaunas experience.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Wander Through the Old Town – The Heart of Kaunas

One of the best things to do in Kaunas is to simply stroll around its charming Old Town. With an area of about 1.5 km², it’s compact yet rich in history and architecture. You can easily spend a few minutes soaking in the atmosphere—or a few hours getting lost in its cobbled streets, cozy courtyards, and local cafés.

The highlight of the Old Town is Vilnius Street, the oldest and most iconic street in Kaunas. Lined with historic buildings, cute shops, and cafés, it’s a picturesque place to wander. Unfortunately, during our visit, Vilnius Street was under reconstruction, but even with the works, the atmosphere of the area remained vibrant and inviting.

Take your time here—walk slowly, look up, and enjoy the mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture that defines the city’s oldest district.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Step Inside the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul

Like many European cities, Kaunas has its own cathedral, and it’s definitely worth a stop during your time in the Old Town. The Cathedral Basilica of the Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul is a Roman Catholic church with roots dating back to 1624, and it’s one of the oldest and largest Gothic churches in Lithuania.

While its Gothic exterior may seem simple at first glance, the inside is more elaborate, with beautiful altars, sculptures, and vaulted ceilings. It’s a peaceful place to step inside, take a breath, and appreciate the layers of history held within its walls.

You won’t need long for a visit, but it adds a lovely cultural touch to your Kaunas itinerary.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Admire the Stunning Kaunas Town Hall

Located right in the heart of the main square, the Kaunas Town Hall is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the 16th century, this elegant baroque building combines Gothic, Baroque, and Classicism styles, making it a standout piece of architecture in Kaunas.

Nicknamed the “White Swan” for its tall, graceful tower, the building has served many purposes over the centuries — from a trading center and a prison to a royal residence and wedding hall.

Today, it houses the Museum of Ceramics, where you can explore collections of pottery and ceramics from different periods of Lithuanian history. Whether you’re interested in the museum or just want to admire the exterior, the Town Hall is a must-see on your walk through the Old Town.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Explore the Ruins of Kaunas Castle

Kaunas Castle, originally built in the 14th century, is one of the oldest and most iconic fortresses in Lithuania. Constructed in Gothic style, it once stood as a powerful defensive stronghold during battles with the Teutonic Order. Although only about a third of the original structure remains today, the restored round tower and sections of the wall still give a glimpse into its medieval past.

Despite its size, Kaunas Castle is the second-largest castle in Lithuania, and its grounds have become a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Families often come here to relax, walk, or play in the surrounding green space, and cultural events and festivals are occasionally held on the grounds.

Inside the restored tower, you’ll find a small exhibition about the castle’s history, which is worth a quick look if you’re interested in medieval heritage.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Admire the Gothic Charm of the Church of St. George the Martyr

Located just across from Kaunas Castle, the Church of St. George the Martyr is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Lithuania. Built in the 15th century, this Roman Catholic church is notable for its red brick façade, arched windows, and intricate detailing that reflect the craftsmanship of medieval times.

Although the church has undergone several restorations due to damage over the centuries, it retains much of its original character. The setting — right by the castle and near the Neris River — adds to its serene and historical ambiance. Whether you’re an architecture lover or just strolling around the Old Town, this church is a peaceful and photogenic stop that complements your visit to Kaunas Castle.

Check our Google Map of the Baltic States

Walk to the Confluence of the Nemunas and Neris Rivers

Just a short stroll from Kaunas Castle, you’ll find one of the city’s most scenic and peaceful spots — the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris Rivers, the two largest rivers in Lithuania. This natural meeting point is located within a spacious riverside park, perfect for a relaxing walk or a quiet break away from the city.

The path takes you through green areas where locals jog, walk their dogs, or enjoy a picnic with a view. At the tip of the confluence, you’ll get a great panoramic view and a sense of how much water has shaped Kaunas historically and geographically. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the riverbanks glow in warm golden light — an ideal end to a day exploring the city.

Step Back in Time at the House of Perkūnas

The House of Perkūnas is one of the most striking and well-preserved Gothic buildings in Lithuania, and a true architectural gem in Kaunas Old Town. Built in the 15th century by Hanseatic merchants, it originally served as their trading office and warehouse, symbolizing Kaunas’ importance in the Hanseatic League.

Its name comes from a statue once found in one of the building’s niches, believed to represent Perkūnas, the Baltic god of thunder. In the 16th century, the building was sold to the Jesuits, who converted it into a chapel by 1643. Over the centuries, it has served many roles — from a residence to a school — and today it houses a museum dedicated to the poet Adam Mickiewicz, who once taught in the building.

With its red-brick façade and pointed Gothic windows, it’s a must-see for architecture lovers and history buffs alike.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Visit the Historic Church of Vytautas the Great

The Church of Vytautas the Great is one of the oldest and most significant churches in Kaunas, dating back to the late 14th century. Commissioned by Grand Duke Vytautas, it was originally built for Franciscan monks and served as a symbol of the duke’s gratitude after surviving a shipwreck.

This Roman Catholic church stands out with its red brick Gothic architecture, typical of medieval Lithuania. Over the centuries, it suffered multiple damages from floods and wars but has always been restored, preserving its historic charm.

Located near the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, it’s an easy and worthy stop while strolling through Kaunas Old Town. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying the city’s heritage, it’s a peaceful and picturesque landmark to admire.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Take in the View from Aleksotas Observation Deck

For the best panoramic view of Kaunas, head to the Aleksotas Observation Deck. Located just across the Nemunas River from the Old Town, this scenic viewpoint offers a stunning overlook of the city’s rooftops, the Kaunas Castle, and the confluence of the two rivers.

You can reach the deck by climbing a short staircase or, for a more charming experience, take the historic Aleksotas Funicular, one of the oldest in Lithuania. The ride is quick, inexpensive (around €1), and adds a touch of vintage charm to your visit.

It’s an ideal spot for sunset views, photography, or simply to take a break and soak in the beauty of Kaunas from above. A must-do stop during your time in the city!

Check our Google Map of the Baltic States

More things to do

If you have extra time or want to dive deeper into Kaunas, here are a few more things we recommend checking out:

• Vytautas Magnus University Botanical Garden: A peaceful escape from the city, this large botanical garden is perfect for a slow afternoon. It features themed gardens, a greenhouse, and lots of native and exotic plant species. Great for families or anyone who enjoys nature walks.
• Kaunas Christ’s Resurrection Basilica: This massive white modernist church is one of the largest basilicas in the Baltics. You can climb or take an elevator to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city. Entry to the terrace is around €2.
• Pažaislis Monastery and Church: Located a bit outside the city, this 17th-century Baroque monastery is one of the most beautiful in Lithuania. It’s nestled by the Kaunas Reservoir and surrounded by nature — a peaceful and scenic visit.
• Devil’s Museum: One of Kaunas’ quirkiest and most famous museums. It features a bizarre collection of over 3,000 devil figurines from around the world. Definitely something unique and fun to explore if you like offbeat attractions.
• M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum: Dedicated to Lithuania’s most famous painter and composer, this museum is a cultural highlight. You’ll find his mystical, symbolic artwork along with temporary exhibits and Lithuanian heritage displays.

These extra sights can help you fill a full day or two in Kaunas, especially if you enjoy art, nature, and religious heritage.

Here are all your accommodation options in Kaunas

Kaunas Itinerary

We spent a full day in Kaunas, and honestly, we felt it was just the right amount of time. While a few places were closed (we visited on a Monday), we still managed to experience most of what the city has to offer and soak in its charm.

• Start your day at the 9th Fort of the Kaunas Fortress
• Head to the city center and visit St. Michael the Archangel’s Church
• Stroll along the main pedestrian street Laisvės alėja
• Stop to admire the Vytautas the Great War Museum
• Spot the famous Pink Elephant street art
• Take a break at the Historical Presidential Palace
• Wander through Kaunas Old Town and Vilniaus Street
• Pop by the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul
• Hang around Kaunas Town Hall Square
• Walk past Kaunas Castle and St. George the Martyr Church
• Head to the Confluence of Nemunas and Neris Rivers
• Pass the House of Perkūnas and the Church of Vytautas the Great
• End your day at the Aleksotas Observation Deck for sunset views

Read: The Perfect 2-Week Baltic States Itinerary