Kaunas
About Kaunas
Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, served as the country's temporary capital between the wars and retains a unique interwar modernist architectural heritage now recognized by UNESCO. The city sits at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, giving it a dramatic natural setting.
Named a European Capital of Culture in 2022, Kaunas has undergone a vibrant cultural renaissance. Its pedestrian-friendly Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue) is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, lined with cafés, shops, and lime trees.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere. Kaunas is generally cheaper than Vilnius.
- Transport: The Old Town and Laisvės Alėja are easily walkable. Public buses connect the rest of the city. The funiculars up Žaliakalnis and Aleksotas hills are charming and functional.
- Tipping: Rounding up or leaving 5–10% is customary but not expected.
- Architecture: Look up! Kaunas has over 6,000 interwar modernist buildings — the largest collection in Europe. Pick up a modernist architecture walking tour map from the tourist office.
- Day trip: The Ninth Fort memorial, a sobering Holocaust remembrance site, is just 7 km from the center and an important historical visit.
Interesting Places to Visit
Kaunas Old Town
A compact, beautifully restored medieval center at the confluence of two rivers. Highlights include the Town Hall Square (nicknamed "White Swan"), cobblestone streets, and numerous Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Start your exploration here.
Kaunas Castle
The oldest stone castle in Lithuania, dating from the 14th century. Partially restored, it sits dramatically at the river confluence. The surrounding park is perfect for a stroll. Free to walk around the exterior.
Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue)
A 1.6 km tree-lined pedestrian boulevard connecting Old Town to New Town. One of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, lined with cafés, boutiques, and interwar architecture. The heart of Kaunas social life.
Ninth Fort
A powerful Holocaust memorial and museum at a former 19th-century fortress complex. Over 50,000 people, mostly Jews, were murdered here during WWII. The monument and museum are deeply moving and historically essential.
M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art
Dedicated to Lithuania's most famous artist and composer, Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis. Houses an extensive collection of his mystical paintings and Lithuanian folk art. A cultural highlight of any Kaunas visit.
Pažaislis Monastery
A stunning Baroque monastery complex on the shores of the Kaunas Reservoir. Considered one of the finest examples of Italian Baroque architecture outside Italy. Hosts a popular summer music festival.
Devil's Museum (Velnių Muziejus)
A unique museum housing over 3,000 depictions of devils and mythological creatures from around the world. Quirky, entertaining, and unlike anything else you'll find in Europe. A Kaunas must-visit.
When to Visit
Kaunas has a similar climate to Vilnius with warm summers and cold winters:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Pleasant for exploring. Temperatures from 5°C to 17°C. The riverside parks begin to green up. Fewer tourists make it easy to enjoy the Old Town at your own pace.
- Kaunas Jazz Festival (April)
- Blooming Japanese cherry trees along Laisvės Alėja
- Easter craft markets
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Warm (18–26°C) with long days. The best season for outdoor events, river walks, and visiting Pažaislis Monastery during its music festival. Lively café terraces everywhere.
- Pažaislis Music Festival (June–August)
- Open-air events on Laisvės Alėja
- Swimming at the Kaunas Reservoir
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Golden foliage along the rivers and parks (7–14°C in September). University students return, bringing energy to the city. Great for museum visits and architecture walks.
- Kaunas Film Festival (September)
- Beautiful fall colors in Ąžuolynas Oak Park
- Cozy cafés and bookshops
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cold (−5 to 0°C) with snow. The Christmas lights on Laisvės Alėja are spectacular. Warm up in one of the city's many cozy cafés after exploring. Fewer tourists and lower prices.
- Christmas market on Town Hall Square
- Ice skating at the seasonal rink
- Warm up with Lithuanian šakotis cake and tea
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Kaunas offers great food at prices even lower than Vilnius. From traditional Lithuanian to modern European, there's plenty to discover:
Višta Puode$
Beloved local canteen-style restaurant serving hearty Lithuanian food. Huge portions of cepelinai, kotletai, and soups at unbeatable prices. No frills, just good honest food.
Uoksas$$ – $$$
Creative modern Lithuanian cuisine using seasonal, locally foraged ingredients. One of the best restaurants in the Baltics. Their tasting menu is a culinary journey through Lithuanian flavors.
Spurginė$
Iconic Soviet-era doughnut shop that has barely changed since the 1960s. Fresh, warm spurgos (Lithuanian doughnuts) for pennies. A true Kaunas institution — don't leave without trying one.
Katpėdėlė$ – $$
Charming family restaurant in Old Town with a focus on Lithuanian comfort food. Excellent šaltibarščiai and stuffed potato dishes. Cozy interior with vintage decor.
Green Café$ – $$
Popular café on Laisvės Alėja with great breakfast and lunch options. Fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect midday refueling spot.
Momo Grill$$
Stylish grill restaurant in the city center with excellent steaks and burgers at reasonable prices. Good craft beer selection. The terrace is lovely in summer.