Kaunas

When it comes to culture, Kaunas is in a class of its own!

2022’s European Capital of Culture has got it all going on. Lithuania’s second largest city is perhaps also its most authentic. In terms of architecture, it’s notable for its largely intact interwar buildings which have been awarded the European Heritage label. Its position at the convergence of Lithuania’s two largest rivers and at the crossroads of the country’s most important roads make it a vital centre of communication. And culturally? Well, just for starters, it has seven universities. That makes it a pretty smart city in anybody’s book…

With over 35,000 students in attendance during term-time, Kaunas is a hub of life and learning. And where you find students, you’ll also find a thriving café and restaurant scene. The students are also the lifeblood of a flourishing cultural life featuring festivals and events that include everything from operettas to modern dance and every kind of music. The street art here has grown up, from unwanted illegal daubing to become a Kaunas design characteristic. It’s free to wander the streets and gaze in wonder. We think you’ll be impressed.

Given the wealth of history and knowledge, Kaunas also has an abundance of museums and galleries. You can explore everything from the history of folk music and Lithuanian royalty, travel through time to a 1929 Art Deco apartment, browse contemporary art, learn about The Great War or visit an Atomic Bunker.

Kaunas’ military history remains much in evidence and the city is still surrounded by a fortress – quite a few actually! History buffs are invited to explore the plans to turn Kaunas into a giant fort and how those plans failed. You can take a guided tour at the 9^th Fort, where you will get an understanding of the interesting and distinctive architecture and visit an incredible monument to the victims of fascism.

Given that Kaunas is undisputedly landlocked, you might be surprised to find it has a few beaches! Lampėdžiai is one of the local’s favourites for hanging out and bathing and you can camp here too. Hire a kayak, bike, canoe or wakeboard – the wakeboard park has one of the longest tracks in Europe – or explore the adventure park. Perfect for active summer days.

Lithuania’s traditions in bathing and sauna treatments date to ancient times and the advantages go beyond stress relief to holistic health benefits. Right now, Kaunas is gaining an excellent reputation as a spa and wellness destination. Visitors from all over Europe travel to health clinics here for a variety of treatments and to recuperate, taking advantage of the many health centres and spa wellness experts that work across the city. What could be more relaxing than a day spent in thermal waters after an expert massage?

You can extend your stay without breaking the bank: Kaunas’ hotel accommodation is some of the best value in Europe. Explore a city that is compact, green, clean and vibrant, and catch some culture while you’re here. We’re more than confident you’ll leave feeling refreshed.