Walking Tours Kaunas
Exploring Kaunas: A Guide to Walking Tours
Welcome to Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city and a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! This historic city offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant local life. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your walking tours in Kaunas.
1. Old Town (Vieš tiesėjų miestelis): Start your journey in the heart of Kaunas - the Old Town. Wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with colorful Gothic and Baroque buildings, each telling a story of centuries past. Don’t miss the St. George’s Church (Vytauto gatvė 16), one of the oldest structures in Kaunas, and the Town Hall (Rotušės aikštė) with its beautiful Gothic tower.
2. Kaunas Castle (Kauno pilies piliakalnis): Just a stone’s throw away from the Old Town lies Kaunas Castle. This medieval castle, built in the 14th century, houses several museums including the Museum of the History of Lithuania and the Museum of Applied Art.
3. Kaunas Devils Mound (Kauno kelpų kalnas): A short trip from the city center takes you to the Kaunas Devils Mound, a prehistoric burial site and one of the largest hillforts in Europe. This unique natural landmark offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Žaliakalnis Hill (Žaliakalnio kalnas): For a different perspective of Kaunas, head to Žaliakalnis Hill. Here you’ll find the Kaunas TV Tower and the Hill Pill Box, offering breathtaking views of the city. The area is also home to several churches, including the stunning Church of Saint Michael the Archangel (Šventaragio bažnytės bazilika).
5. Modernist Architecture: Kaunas is renowned for its unique modernist architecture, a result of the city serving as the temporary capital of Lithuania during the interwar period. Be sure to check out buildings such as the Kaunas City Hall (Rotušės aikštė), the Kaunas State Music School (Kauno valstybinė muzikos mokykla) and the Žaliakalnio kino pavilnys, all masterpieces of modernist design.
Tips:
- Kaunas can be explored comfortably on foot, but if you’re short on time, consider hopping on one of the city’s electric scooters or bicycles.
- Many attractions require admission fees, but some, like the Old Town and Žaliakalnis Hill, are free to enter.
- Kaunas has a rich culinary scene. Don’t forget to try local dishes such as Cepelinai (potato dumplings) and Šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup).
- Always respect local customs and traditions, and remember that photography may not be allowed in some places of worship or museums.
Enjoy your walking tours in Kaunas! Experience the city’s history, culture, and warmth, and create unforgettable memories in this charming Lithuanian city.