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Kaunas

Europe : Baltic states : Lithuania : Kaunas

Kaunas [1], [2] is the second biggest city in the centre of Lithuania.

The Old Town of Kaunas from Aleksotas

The emblem of Kaunas

[edit]Understand

Kaunas is Lithuania's second city with approximately 350,000 inhabitants (2009) in the municipality, but is no way a poor relation. For a time it acted as temporary capital and as such benefited from investment and the status. A visit in February is not everyone's idea of peak holiday time but it may add to the city's appeal. Yes it will be -15 degrees C outside, and yes there was snow and ice and it takes 10 minutes to dress before venturing out and another 10 to undress when you go back inside but when else do most of us get to experience that? It's not like England where one snowflake brings the transport network to a halt. Don't forget the people of Kaunas are used to it and life goes on with great efficiency. Museums have cloakrooms, everywhere is well heated and draft proofed, supermarkets have lockers to leave your coats, hats, scarves, gloves, sledges and so on and nobody minds you sipping vodka from a 200 ml bottle to keep your insides warm. As well as the usual attractions this time of year allows you to go sledging (sledges from 3 LTL in supermarkets) or across the bridge to the park on an island in the river to build snowmen, have snowball fights and drag huge chunks of ice up to the bridge to send crashing onto the frozen river below. You will notice that some couples had attached padlocks to the bridge with their names scratched or painted on - a custom one may have observed in Riga. The gist is pretty clear and the bridge to the park is an ideal location to continue. There is a locksmith who sells padlocks in a courtyard off the northern side of Laisves Aleja towards the eastern end - reasonably priced too. Go for the ones with the longest hasp (loop) as the bars of the bridge are really thick. Failing that attach yours to one that is already there! Take a note, that Lithuanian phrasebook is very useful while in Kaunas or other site of Lithuania.

[edit]Climate

The best time to visit Kaunas is from early May to late August. July has the highest mean temperature, 16.0 °C (63.0 °F). Most of Kaunas‘s annual events are held during spring and summer time. The rainy season often starts July, yet at the same time rains are short in time. Winter can be sometimes stinging cold, with short daylight hours.

Climate	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Daily highs (°C)	-3	-1	3	11	18	21	22	22	17	11	4	0
Nightly lows (°C)	-8	-8	-4	2	7	11	13	12	8	4	-1	-5
Precipitation (cm)	3.9	3.1	3.5	4.2	5.5	6.9	8.0	7.8	5.6	4.5	5.3	4.7


See Kaunas day forecast at Lithuanian hydrometeorological service

Overall, Kaunas has milder climate if compare with any major city in Lithuania. Kaunas gets less windy and rainy days than Klaipeda, and less freezing in winter, than Vilnius.

[edit]History

Between the 4th and 5th century B.C. at the confluence of the two largest Lithuanian rivers the settlement was established. In the 14th century a castle was built here. Now it is considered to be the oldest in Lithuania.

Kaunas was first mentioned in written Teutonic Knights sources in 1361, who captured the town and destroyed the Kaunas Castle in 1362. It was rebuilt at the beginning of the XV century.

In 1408 Kaunas was granted Magdeburg Rights by Vytautas the Great. While being located at the intersection of trade routes and a river port Kaunas has become one of the major trade centers in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and joined the Hanseatic League in 1441. By the XVI century, Kaunas was one of the best-formed towns in the whole country.

In XVII and XVIII centuries Kaunas was attacked by armies of Russia and Sweden several times, some parts of the city was destroyed by fires. After the partition of the Polish-Lithuanian state in 1795, the city was taken over by the Russian Empire. During the French invasion of Russia in 1812, the Grand Army of Napoleon passed through Kaunas twice, devastating the city both times.

Kaunas was one of the centres of the two Uprisings in XIX century. To suppress the local population, the Russian authorities placed a large military garrison with a formidable fortress, including many forts, artillery bastions, and fortifications. At the same time Kaunas grew as an important center of transport and industry. In 1862 a railway connecting the Russian Empire and Germany was constructed, making Kaunas a significant railway hub.

The Interim Capital

Kaunas played a central role in developing and consolidating Lithuania‘s statehood at the 20s and 30s of 20th century. When the local red rebels took the Vilnius region at the beginning of January in 1919, the Lithuanian government moved from Vilnius to Kaunas. It de factocontinued in the role of temporary capital until July, 1940. The transfer of the capital stimulated the development of the city of Kaunas. The new status transformed Kaunas in to the state‘s political, administrative, and cultural center. The growth of large-scale architectural and urban development was paralleled by the extremely intensive social and cultural life. Kaunas was the only provisional capital in Europe during the interbellum.

At the period after Vilnius was occupied by the Russian Bolsheviks in 1919 and captured by Poland in 1920, the government of Lithuania established its main base in Kaunas. The city became the Temporary capital of Lithuania. Between the World Wars Kaunas grew rapidly and was extensively modernised, a lot of buildings were built, representing neoclassicism, functionalism, and art deco. Kaunas become the largest city in Lithuania.

Up to the Second World War Kaunas had a significant Jewish population, who constituted about one-fourth of the city's total population. Jews were concentrated in the city's commercial, artisan, and professional sectors. Kaunas was also a center of Jewish learning.

In 1940 Lithuania was annexed by the Soviet Union. Following Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941, Soviet forces fled Kaunas. Immediately before and following the German occupation of the city, several thousand Jews were killed. The Nazis eventually established the Kaunas Ghetto, which by the end of the war would be nearly completely liquidated.

After World War II Kaunas became the main industrial city of Lithuania, at the same time citizenry of the city were under continuous oppression of Soviets. After the restoration of Independence in 1990, Kaunas has become a center of logistics, transport, computer technologies, and sports of Lithuania.

[edit]Get in

[edit]By plane

Kaunas airport can accommodate planes of practically all types. Kaunas can be easily reached with the largest low cost airline in Europe Ryanair[3] toKaunas international airport,[4], (IATA: KUN, ICAO: EYKA). Kaunas airport is located 14 km /8 miles (~25-30 minutes drive) from the Kaunas downtown and directly linked to the A6/E262 (Kaunas - Daugavpils) highway, which border the airport’s northern boundaries and meet up with A1/E85motorway at the Murava junction about 7 km south from the Kaunas airport.

Kaunas airport has been chosen as first Ryanair base in Central Europe from May 2010. Earlier to Kaunas were flights from Dublin, Birmingham(seasonal), Frankfurt-Hahn, Bremen, Liverpool, London-Stansted and London-Luton, Brussels-Charleroi and Bristol.

Additional 9 flights from Kaunas to Barcelona-Girona (seasonal), Berlin-Schoenefeld, Dusseldorf-Weeze, Edinburgh, London-Gatwick, Milan-Bergamo,Oslo-Rygge, Paris-Beauvais, and Tampere were established from May 2010. Another flight from Kaunas to Gothenburg-City Airport has started from November, 2010.

To Kaunas there is also a regular flight via Riga with AirBaltic, the Latvian airline [5]. New modern terminal for passengers was opened at Kaunas airport in March 2008. There are some vendors in the terminal building, including a restaurant, bars, and duty free shops, as well as car rentals. Travel agency, currency exchange, and ATM services are also available. Airport has 3 parking lots with ~1000 parking spaces offering short- and long-term parking.

From the airport a bus #29 - found right outside - takes you into the center of Kaunas, going by route: Kaunas Central Train Station - Central Bus Station - Savanoriu ave. - Kaunas Airport (tickets for 2,0 LTL (0,58 EUR) are available from the driver).

If you arrive to Kaunas on a late night flight, Kaunas City bus #29E is for your convenience. Every day the bus #29E leaves Kaunas airport for the Kaunas downtown only after the last flight has arrived.

Shuttle bus #120 goes by route: Kaunas Airport - Savanoriu Ave. - Kaunas Castle (in the Old Town) bus stop. There are also two regular routes by shuttle bus from Kaunas airport to Vilnius and Klaipeda. There is a taxi stand in front of the airport. A taxi to the Old Town of Kaunas costs around 55 LTL (16 EUR). Some Kaunas' hotels offer a shuttle to/from the Kaunas airport.

Vilnius airport [6] is just 100 km away from Kaunas. The Airlines that operate from Vilnius airport are Aer Lingus, AirBaltic, Czech Airlines, Estonian Air, Finnair, Lufthansa, Norwegian AirShuttle, Brussels Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and LOT.

[edit]By road

Kaunas is served by a number of major Baltic freeways. The international road Via Baltica E67 (connecting Warsaw, to Tallinn) crosses Kaunas just after about 70 km (45 miles) from the Lithuanian-Poland border. It is the most important road connection between the Baltic states. Via Baltica also serves as the Western bypass of Kaunas city.

There is 210 km (130 miles) motorway A1/E85 that leads from westwern part of Lithuania, Klaipeda and Palanga (a resort by the Baltic sea), and connects Kaunas, and Vilnius in the east. The major junction of the highways Via Baltica and Vilnius-Kaunas-Klaipėda is constructed in Sargėnai – at the northeast part of Kaunas City. Buses serve section Kaunas-Vilnius every 30 to 60 min.

Another important highway A6/E262 links Kaunas with Jonava, Ukmerge, Utena, and Daugavpils, in Latvia. The modern four-lane motorways and highways are in a very good state. The speed-limit is 130 kph on the motorways (110 kph in winter), but just 100 kph on the Vilnius-Kaunas sector.

National status roads connects Kaunas with Alytus, Šakiai, and Klaipeda through Jurbarkas and Šilute.

[edit]By train

At the Kaunas Central Train Station (M.K. Čiurlionio str. 16) there are lockers next to the ticket office, a tourist office, an ATM and a small café. There are many trains from Vilnius to Kaunas. If travelling from Klaipeda by train to Kaunas, you must make a stop at Kaišiadorys, and wait for another train running from Vilnius or travel from Siauliai on Fridays and Sundays to Kaunas directly. Some trains run from Vilnius to Šeštokai, and, Poland, through Kaunas. There is also an international rail route connecting Kaliningrad, Russia and Kharkiv, Ukraine, that crosses Kaunas. Czech made Double-deck electric trains, alongside with older ones, go from Vilnius to Kaunas, and vice versa. Recently renovated 1,3 km (0,8 miles) long Kaunas railway tunnel [7]built between 1859 and 1861 near Kaunas central railway station is worth attention for tourists. It started operations earlier than Underground of London. A restored steam engine stands at the western entrance of Kaunas railway tunnel.

[edit]By bus

There are some frequent bus routes that radiate out from Kaunas and serve other countries. These particularly go to Riga in Latvia, Tallinn in Estonia,Minsk in Belarus, and Warsaw in Poland. Bus companies also serve other parts of Lithuania, such as tourist destinations Druskininkai, Palanga or Trakai.

Kautra [8] - one of the major bus companies in Lithuania established in 1934, and based in Kaunas. One may book Kautra' electronic tickets through internet [9].
Ecolines [10]
Toks [11]

[edit]By boat

Lithuania's ferry port is Klaipeda on the Baltic sea coast. From there one can rent a car or take a bus to get to Kaunas, which is about 210 km (130 miles) inland. There is a chance to come to Kaunas Nemunas river pier from Nida by boat (summer time only).

Nemunas river pier in Kaunas

Regular water tourism non stop route of 240 km (150 miles) Kaunas - Nida (trip duration: 4 hours; one way ticket price: 99 LTL/28,6 EUR, up to 4 year children - free of charge) is available on Wednesdays and Saturdays fromKaunas Nemunas pier (Raudondvario str.107A - close to Combo nightclub) since 3rd of July, 2010. The trip starts from Kaunas pier at 9 A.M. (boarding starts at 8.30 A.M.). You may go back from Nida pier to Kaunas on Wednesdays and Sundays from 3 P.M. (boarding starts at 2.30 A.M.) Check for more info at the website of company "Nemuno linija": [12] or write an e-mail: info@nemunolinija.lt ; mobile phone: +370 650 10 999.

[edit]Get around

Kaunas has well developed public transport system. There are 16 trolleybus routes and 47 bus routes inside of the city. Buses and trolleybuses tickets can be bought at press kiosks and in the transport. The Kaunas Public Transport [13] site offers useful information and a downloadable map [14] of the bus and trolleybus routes. Since 2007 electronic monthly tickets are being introduced for public transport in Kaunas. Until 2010 regular paper tickets, which are valid for single journey in Kaunas public buses and trolleybuses, can be purchased from newspapers stands and public transport drivers. Each public transport stop in the downtown area is equipped with Kaunas public transport maps and electronic scoreboards. Price for one journey is 1.8 LTL (0.52 EUR) or 2.0 LTL (0.56 EUR) if ticket is bought in the bus or trolleybus. You must validate your ticket on entry in one of the machines. Tickets purchased from the driver are already time-stamped. Single journey (paper) tickets are valid for buses and trolleybuses. E-ticket prices: E-ticket card price containing e-tickets – you are not allowed to purchase empty card) - 6 LTL (1,74 EUR); 3-day e-ticket - 16 LTL (4,64 EUR); 7-days e-ticket - 29 LTL (8,4 EUR). Electronic tickets for 3, 7 days, 1 or 3 months are valid for both public transport means as well. If already purchased at the news stand, electronic ticket may be replenished at the special internet site [15] (regrettably, at the moment, only in Lithuanian). E-ticket for 3 or 7 days is valid from the moment of it's activation using ticket punchers in the public transport.

Kaunas Tourist Card [16] is an option for getting around Kaunas for less money. The card costs 68,99 LTL (19,98 EUR) and is valid for 7 days in Kaunas. It offers a public transport e-ticket for travelling in Kaunas and gives discounts up to 50% in Kaunas' museums, city tours, restaurants, and some hotels.

[edit]By bus

The bus network covers the whole city and is the widest public transportation system in Kaunas. Three guided routes by bus (bus tours) are for your convenience in Kaunas. A two hour sightseeing tour starts and ends at the Town Hall square. It is possible to arrange Kaunas City Tour in English, German, Russian, Polish, French, Spanish, Italian or other languages upon request. Price: 20-30 LTL (5,8-8,7 EUR) per person. Discounts are available for groups by making a call +370 686 72224 or at E. Ožeškienės str.4.

[edit]By trolleybus

Kaunas trolleybuses service is very reliable. The fleet of trolleys' is relatively new, represented by Polish Solaris' and some of older Czech Skoda's.

[edit]By microbus

There is extensive network of about 50 routes of private owned microbuses routes in Kaunas. Shuttle (microbuses) service charges 2.5 LTL (0.72 EUR) per journey. For journey one should pay in cash at the moment of boarding and travel till necessary, i.e. just say "stop, please".

[edit]By taxi

Taxi prices varies from 2 LTL (0.6 EUR) to 2.5 LTL (0.72 EUR) per kilometer. For travelling with taxi, it is advisable to order one by phone because halting a cab on the street is not a custom. In the evening and at night, the price will be higher. Reputable companies are:

Žaibiškas greitis [17] - established in 1992 and owned largest taxi fleet in Kaunas; tel.+370 37 234 444; short no.: 1422 (Omnitel); 1441 (Bite).
Taxi Kaunas [18] - all taxi services available; tel.+370 60 114411; +370 60 441144.
Smugis - tel. +370 37 333 333.
Einesa - tel. +370 37 331 533.
Greitasis taksi - tel. +370 37 234 444.

[edit]By car

Driving a car in Kaunas is easy, if 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 in Kaunas City centre grid. Drivers must have 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 Fortuna [19], Avis [20], Hertz[21],Europcar[22], Budget [23], AviaEuropa [24] and more. All of these companies have offices at Kaunas airport. The vehicles are provided with a full tank. The car must be returned with full tank, otherwise, 1 EUR per liter is charged. To rent a car without a driver a deposit must be paid. The speed limit in Kaunas is 50 kph, except some bigger streets which have the speed limit of 60, 70 or even 80 kph.

Parking in Kaunas Red zone

Parking in central Kaunas, as well as in the Old Town area, is paid. Central Kaunas is divided into three zones with different parking fee - red (3 LTL/hour; 2 LTL/0,5hour), blue (2LTL/hour; 1 LTL/0,5hour) and green (1LTL/hour). 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 special 1 or 2 hour parking card or by sending special SMS to number 1332 if having local mobile provider - Omnitel, Bite or Tele2 card in ones phone. Special sticker on the windscreen of the car to indicate that SMS payment can be used is required. 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 str.45, or at dressed in green parking controllers. Everyone is liable to an excess charge if park beyond selected parking period. Excess period is 15 minutes.

[edit]By bike

There are more than 50 km (30 miles) of bicycle roads in Kaunas and the number of available roads is increasing each year. The Eurovelo international route goes through the city. Kaunas city bike routes chart is available here [25]. The first bicycle rental 2RIDE recently was opened at Laisves aleja, 36; also at Kaunas Old Town Tourist Office [26], Rotuses sq. 29. The rent price starts from 10 LTL (2,9 EUR)/hour. Helmets are available. Bike rental office working hours: Mo-Fr 9 AM - 6 PM; Sa,Su 10 AM - 6 PM. Tel.:+370 (37) 323 436. Fax.:+370 (37) 423 678. E-mail: [info@2ride.lt].

[edit]By boat

Regular water tourism routes Kaunas - Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant - Kaunas (duration: 3 hours; price: 20 LTL adults, 10 LTL childs) and Kaunas -Rumšiškės - Kaunas (duration: 6 hours; price: 17 LTL adults, 8 LTL childs) are available on Saturdays and Sundays from Kaunas Pažaislis pier. Each route start from Kaunas Reservoir pier at 11 A.M. Another water tourism route Kaunas - Zapyškis - Kulautuva small resort town (duration: 2 hours; price: 10 LTL adults, 5 LTL childs) starts from Kaunas Vytautas' church pier in the Old Town on Sundays at 12 P.M. Tickets are also available in advance at Kaunas region tourism information center, Laisves aleja, 36.

There is a twice-weekly route Kaunas - Nida - Kaunas (duration: 3-4 hours; price: 99 LTL one way) on Wednesdays and Saturdays/Sundays, operated by Nemuno Linija [27]. Town Nida is situated in Curonian Spit National Park. According to Lonely Planet guide, it is second best beach in the world.

[edit][add listing]See

Kaunas has several districts and sites interesting for tourists. The Old Town is the area mostly built between XIV and XVII centuries, resembling buildings in Gothic, Renaissance, and, Baroque architecture. Open spaces, parks, and places of interested are in the compact New Town as well as some different locations. A walking tour is the best way to see the Old Town of Kaunas. A lot of guided excursions are available at Kaunas region tourism information office [28]. You can also get a free tour from a local guide (often a student). They take you on a three hour tour, showing you all the popular but also the less known spots and telling loads of funny stories. Afterwards, you can give them a tip (10 litas per person). More information on kaunasfreetour@gmail.com. Kaunas boasts around 40 different museums of art, nature, literature, history, science, and sports as well as historical and memorial museums.

[edit]Old Town

The Kaunas Castle [29] - Papilio str. 17; is under renovation now. Kaunas castle was built in the middle of XIV century and is the oldest building in Kaunas. Nearby Kaunas castle a nice Santakos park is set at the confluence of the two largest rivers of Lithuania - the Nemunas and Neris.

Kaunas city hall

The Kaunas City Hall [30]- Rotuses sq. 15, built in the middle of XVI century, at the time when Kaunas was flourishing city of merchants, City Hall is a nice example of renaissance architecture in Kaunas. It is unofficially among locals called The White Swan. In 1836 the City Hall was reconstructed and the residence for Russian czars was made there. The Wedding Hall (marriage registration office) was opened in the ground and first floor of City hall in 1973. The cellars are used by a Kaunas Ceramics museum. The museum collection consists of various archaeological findings from the Old Town and surroundings of Kaunas. The collection contains craftsmen-made crockery, tile stove ornaments as well as roof tiles of impressive size. The exposition also reflects the lifestyle of the townsmen of the time. Open: Tu-Su 11 AM- 5 PM.

The City Hall Square - the main square of the Old Town is the place for Kaunas City Hall and the surrounding buildings with lots of restaurants, bars, coffee-houses, museums, art galleries, and, hotels nearby.

Wax Melting Furnace - the unique exposure of XV century wax melting stove near the Tower entrance of the City Hall was opened in 2002. Recently renovated the furnace exposure shows wax melting process. Kaunas was an important center of wax trade in the Middle Ages. So called wax stones (each of which 16 kg/35 lb weight) were melt in 9 stoves of Kaunas and later stamped with a Coat of Arms of Kaunas for export toWestern Europe.

The Communications History Museum - Rotuses sq. 19; The museum houses the collection of unique and still working exhibits, and offers visitors to familiarize themselves with the history of development of post, as well as others means of communications. A visitor himself may test the operation of some telegraph devices or in the courtyard take a look at the remnants of an old bronze melting furnace. Museum is set in the XVI century two brick granaries to stack exported grain. In the XIX century buildings have been set up as horse postal station. Open: We-Su 10 AM - 6 PM. Tickets 5 LTL (1,45 EUR) adults, 3 LTL (0,9 EUR) for children.

Maironis Museum of Lithuania Literature[31] - Rotuses sq. 13; museum 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. Working hours: Tu-Sa 9 AM - 5 PM. Tickets: 4 LTL (1,2 EUR).

Inside Kaunas cathedral

Kaunas Arch-cathedral Basilica - Vilniaus str. 1; [32] being 84 m long and 34 m wide is the largest Gothic (with Rennaisance 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.

Kaunas Medicine and Pharmacy Museum[33] - Rotuses sq. 28. Houses a huge collection of skulls, herbs, medicine articles, and, other stuff of older times. Open 10 AM -7 PM daily. Mon. closed. Tickets: 3 LTL for adults, 1,5 LTL for childs. Excursions in English are available (price - 25 LTL (7,3 EUR).

St. Francis Xavier Church - Rotuses sq. 9. [34] The construction of late baroque Jesuit church was begun in the second half of the XVII 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.

Vytautas' Church [35] - Aleksoto str.3; officially named The Church of Taking Holy Virgin Mary into the Heaven church is the oldest one in Kaunas and is one of the first Gothic brick buildings built in 1400 in Kaunas on the bank of the Nemunas river. The church belonged to Franciscan monks. During the Napoleonic Wars it was turned into a war ammunition warehouse.

Vytautas' Bridge - connects the Old Town and Aleksotas district. The original bridge on wooden poles was built in 1812. It was used by Napoleon’s Army fleeing from Russia. At the beginning of XIX century, Aleksotas district belonged to Poland, while other parts of Kaunas on the right bank of Nemunas river was then part of the Russian Northwestern region where different calendars were used. Jokingly, the bridge was called the longest bridge in the world: the Slavic (Julian) calendar was used in the province of Kaunas, whereas Aleksotas region used the Catholic (Gregorian) calendar; therefore, it took 13 days to cross the bridge (the old calendar was 13 days behind the new one).

Evangelic Luteran 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 - 1683.

St. Gertrude church

St. Gertrude Church - Laisves aleja 101A; the church was built in the late XV 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.

Napoleon's House - Muitines str. 8; the brick building of the XVI century is famous for a fact that in June of 1812, the Emperor of France Napoleon resided there. Later the building was named after its distinguished guest. The restored eastern annexe of the Napoleon house has a beautiful staircase, an example of an rare in Lithuania architectural style, Fachverk. It is thought that this rare staircase is the heritage of the Germans who significantly contributed to the formation of the area. Nowadays Napoleon‘s house, as well as a former Renaissance consistory of a Luteran church, and other buildings of the area near the Nemunas river, houses Vilnius University Kaunas Faculty of Humanities.

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. At the moment, it is used for needs of Kaunas seminary.

Courtyard in Kaunas Old Town

St. George Church and Bernardine Monastery - Papilio str. 7; located near Kaunas castle, church's Gothic walls have survived despite frequent fires. The church and a monastery built in XV century are a Gothic monument with unique façades. The interior features a number of valuable Renaissance and Gothic elements. Complex is under renovation at the moment.

Perkunas' House - Aleksoto str. 6; one of the most beautiful secular so called "flaming" Gothic building (House of Thunder) in Lithuania. At the moment, the building belongs to the Jesuits order, and a small museum of Lithuanian and Polish poet Adomas Mickevicius (Adam Mickewicz) is opened inside.

St. Michael Church and Benedictine Convent - Benediktiniu str. 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 str. at the north-east part of Kaunas Old Town. It is reachable on foot by crossing busy Saukliu str. from Kaunas castle side.

Jewellery (Gemmology) Museum [36] - L. Zamenhofo str./Kurpių str. 13; located between the Nemunas river and the main - Vilniaus street of the Old Town, small private museum attracts visitors with rare minerals, preciuos stones exposition from different locations of the world. Quality certificates of precious stones and gems are issued there. Open: Mo-Fr 10AM-6PM; Sa 10AM-4PM. Entrance free.

The Historical Presidential Palace

Historical Presidential Palace [37]- Vilniaus str. 33; Former Palace houses objects, which relate to presidential institution of the First Republic of Lithuania (1918–1940). Representational portraits, art works from the interiors of Presidential Palace are exhibited here, also – the presents received by presidents, authentic furniture. In the garden of the Palace, 3 the Interbellum period Presidents of Lithuania face to the visitors. Working hours: Tu–Su 11AM–5PM. Tickets 3 LTL (around 1 EUR).

[edit]Central Kaunas

Image:Tower in Kaunas City Wall .jpg

The Tower of Kaunas City Wall

Kaunas downtown area is compact so everyone is able to stroll around on foot and take some photos. Be prepared for great variety of sculptuary on display in the public areas of Kaunas. Kaunas Old Town ends at the remnants of the former Kaunas City wall near the garden of the Musical Theatre.

Laisvės alėja - Kaunas' most famous walking street is fully pedestrianised and runs from the Old Town for a distance of almost 2 km to the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Two lines of Linden trees, seating and flower beds run the length of the avenue. There is a good assortment of shops, banks, supermarkets, restaurants, a cinema, casinos, nightclubs, museums, tourist information office, places to stay and a central post office. It would be possible to spend your entire stay on Laisves Aleja and not get bored. It is kept clean and snow free (in the winter) with great efficiency and is a great place to spend time. In the late morning and afternoon various stalls selling foods, souvenirs hats etc. appear and are worth a look.

Laisvės Alėja in Kaunas

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.

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 oppresion on 14 May, 1972.

Vytautas' Monument - 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.

The Synagogue - E. Ožeskienes str. 13. Kaunas Choral Synagogue, located near the western end of Laisvės aleja, is one of two remaining Jewish houses of prayer in Lihuania. It was built in 1872 in reformist decorative style of synagogues of that time. The facade of the synagogue is reminiscent of a neobaroque church. It's dome was rebuilt some years ago. There is an exposition of rabbis' paintings on the second floor of the Synagogue.

Zoological museum

Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum [38] - Laisves aleja, 106. 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. Open 11 AM-7 PM daily. Mon. closed. Tickets: 5 LTL (1,5 EUR) for adults, 3 LTL for childs.

The Catacombs - enter the Church of St. Michael the Archangel (the beautiful domed building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja) sand the entrance to the catacombs (katakombos) is on your right. Ask at the sacristy (right of the main altar) and they will let you in for free. You descend a spiral staircase into total darkness then begin a journey using your remaining senses which takes you through an underground assault course. When you make it through you ascend a similar spiral staircase on the opposite side of the church entrance. Not for the fainthearted, small children or anyone with difficulty moving around. They appreciate a donation to the church afterwards in one of the boxes scattered around.

Kaunas Officers' Club - A. Mickevičiaus str. 19. One of the finest examples of Kaunas Interbellum architecture (Karininkų Ramovė in Lithuanian), especially from the inside, built in 1937. The main facade 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 uniques chandeliers, paintings, frescoes, furniture, and stained-glasses. Good quality cuisine pizzeria is situated on the first floor of the club.

Vytautas the Great War Museum

Vytautas the Great War Museum - K. Donelaicio str. 64. 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 Dyed for the Freedom of Lithuania is available to visit beneath the floor of the Museum. Open Tu-Su 11 AM- 5:30 PM. Admission - adult 2 LTL, child 1 LTL.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal flame - both in the square in front of Vytautas the Great Museum with the statues of Lithuanian national renaissance figures and the are located. It was the main square where Lithuanian national holidays were celebrated during the period when Kaunas had been the Temporary capital of Lithuania.

The Carillion - Kaunas 35 bell Carillon in the tower of Vytautas the Great War Museum was completed in Belgium in 1935. The bell music from the tower started to ring in 1937. Kaunas carillon was restored by Royal Eijsbouts bell foundry in Netherlands in 2006. After the restoration, Kaunas carillon now has 49 bells and a new keyboard. Everyday the Lithuanian folk melody of wartime is being played automatically in the middle of the day. Carillon concerts are performed every Saturday and Sunday at 4 PM in the Garden of Vytautas the Great Military Museum.

The Bank of Lithuania

The Bank of Lithuania - Maironio str.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.

M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum - V. Putvinskio str. 55. Museum [39] collects, keeps, investigates and popularizes Lithuanian most famuous artist and composer's M. K. Čiurlionis' (1875–1911) creative works, cultural heritage of Lithuania and the world. Some art critics call M. K. Ciurlionis the pioneer of abstract art. His creations combine symbolism, secessio, abstractionsism and romanticism. Working hours: October – May: Tu – Su 11AM–5PM. June – September: Tu–Su 10AM–5PM. Tickets: 6 LTL (1,7 EUR) for adults, 3 LTL (0,9 EUR) for pupils.

Devils' Museum,[40] - V. Putvinskio str.64. Contains the Lithuanian artist' A. Zmuidzinavicius collection of sculptures and carvings of devils, and a unique collection of devils from the whole world. Tel: + 370 37 221 587' Open Tu-Su 11AM-6PM.

Kaunas Picture Gallery - K. Donelaicio str.16. Gallery houses XX 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. Open Tu-Su 11AM-5PM. Ticket price 4 LTL (1,2 EUR).

Funicular

Funicular railways - There are two still functioning funiculars in Kaunas. The Žaliakalnis Funicular on V. Putvinskio street 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. The ticket costs 0.5 LTL. Another - Aleksotas Funicular, built in 1935, near Aleksotas (or Vytautas) bridge, that connects the Old Town with Aleksotas district, takes people up to Aleksotas hill. From here is probably the best view of Kaunas downtown.

Bridge to the park

The 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 multifunctional arena in the Baltic states on eastern part of the island is now being built. Kaunas Arena will be used to host sports games as well as concerts. It is expected to be open at the end of 2010.

Kaunas M. Žilinskas Picture Gallery[41] - Nepriklausomybes sq.12; Contemporay 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, XVII-XX 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. Open June-September Tu-Su 10AM-5PM, October-May 11AM-5PM. Ticket price - 6 LTL (1,8 EUR).

Kaunas Orthodox Cathedral - Vytauto av. 38. 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. Entrance free.

The Mosque - Totoriu str.3. The only in Lithuania Eastern style building and 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.

Museum of Deportation and Resistance - Vytauto av. 46. 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. Tel.: + 370 37 323 179. Open Tu-Fr 10AM-4PM.

[edit]Other Sights

Church of the Resurrection

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 12PM you can climb the stairs (3 LTL/1 EUR) or take the lift (5 LTL/1,5 EUR) to the terrace at the top. Spectacular views of Kaunas and beyond. The church itself 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.

The House of Sugihara [42]- Vaizganto str. 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 was saved about 6,000 people from Holocaust.

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 str.) 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.

Lithuanian Zoo Park [43] - the only Zoo garden in Lithuania was established in a 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. Working hours 9AM-7PM. Tickets: May-October 11 LTL (3,2 EUR) for adults & 8 LTL (2,4 EUR) for pupils, November-April 7 LTL (2 EUR) for adults & 5 LTL (1,45 EUR) for pupils.

Lithuania's Museum of Aviation [44]- Veiveriu str.132. 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 aviaton simulator. Working hours: Tu-Sat 9AM-5PM. Tickets - 4 Lt (1,2 EUR), with guided excursion - 10 Lt (2,7 EUR). Museum is reachable from the city central bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.

Kaunas Botanical Garden [45]- Z. E. Zilibero str. 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.

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 XIX 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.

Kaunas Fortress [46] - built between 1882 and 1915, it was designated a "first-class" fortress in Russian Empire in 1887. The fortress was battle-tested in 1915 when Germany attacked the Russian Empire, and withstood eleven days of assault before capture. The Ninth Fort of the Fortress houses a museum and memorial [47] devoted to the victims of World War II mass executions.

9th Fort Museum - Žemaičių av. 73; located in the western outskirts of Kaunas, museum offers expositions of Soviet terror and deportation of Lithuanians to Soviet camps and Siberia, Kaunas' Stronghold and 9th Fort, Massacre of Jewish people in Lithuania in 1941–1944, Prison-breaking of 64 prisoners from 9th Fort, and others. Dungeon and defense wall (about 1 km long), guns and ammunition of 1st and 2nd World Wars of 9th Fort are a separate itinerary of an excursion. The memorial of 105 feet (32 meters) high to the victims of fascism at the Ninth Fort was erected in 1984. Open: April-October Mo, We-Su 10 AM-6PM; November - March, We-Su 10 AM - 4 PM. Price: 5 LTL (1,5 EUR) adults, 3 LTL (0,8 EUR) students, children. Tours are available.

Pažaislis Monastery and Church [48]- 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 located on the bank of Kaunas Reservoir [49] is open Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sat 10AM-4PM. Tickets: 5 LTL (1,45 EUR) for adults, 2 LTL (0,6 EUR) for pupils. Pažaislis monastery complex was built by Italian architects, whereas sculptors from Lombardy took care of the frescos and plaster casts.

The monastery is situated at 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 [50], which is situated near confluence of Kaunas Reservoir with small Strėva river, at distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.

[edit][add listing]Do

Lovers of nightlife may enjoy Kaunas’s theatres, nightclubs, cafes and bars, offering a wide range of entertainment, including casinos, striptease, local and foreign DJs, or, for instance, basketball/football games translations on large screens.

[edit]Festivals

Kaunas is home to a variety of festivals, including famous summer time Pažaislis Music festival [51], Kaunas Jazz [52] festival (at the end of April/ begininng of May) and International Modern Dance Festival [53] (at the beginning of October). All year round in Kaunas one will have an opportunity to see some annual cultural events like Kaziukas Fair (at the beginning of March), Days of Kaunas city (in the middle of May), National Brass Band Festival Let's pipe for Kaunas in the squares of the city (on May 21), International auto-moto fan fiesta Bike Show Millenium [54] attracts huge amount of bikers and their bikes in the middle of June, Operetta in Kaunas Castle [55] (at the end of June and the beginning of July) or traditional folk music competition Play, Jurgelis (in November). Kaunas is proud of being the only city in Lithuania that belongs to the international towns' union The New Hansa. Every year, Kaunas presents itself at the annual event of the union International Hansa Days by introducing the heritage of cuisine, folk art, medieval music and theatre; Hansa Kaunas [56] festival is usually held in the last decade of August. The shopping festival Akropolis Kaunas Grand Shopping Festival is held in the first decade of July at Kaunas Akropolis shopping center. During the festival, the great discounts apply to all goods in all stores of the shopping center.

[edit]Theatres

Kaunas has many theatres showing plays of different kinds:

Kauno Musical Theatre [57] – Laisves aleja 91; variety of classical opera and operetta plays in original language. Everyone should purchase tickets in advance. Prices vary from 15 LTL (4,4 EUR) to 100 LTL (29 EUR).

Kaunas State Drama Theatre – Laisvės alėja, 71; shows drama performances.

Kaunas Pantomime Theatre [58] - M. Dauksos str. 34; the only theatre in Lithuania of that kind.

Kaunas Chamber Theater [59] – Kestucio str. 74A. Located near Musical theatre, it is small, but yet well known drama theatre.

Kaunas Modern Dance Theatre Aura[60] – M. Dauksos str. 30A. Located in the Old Town. The only theatre of Contemporary art of dance in whole country.

The Kaunas Philharmonic

Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra [61] – L. Sapiegos str. 5; Orchestra plays concerts at Kaunas Philharmonic which is set at the premise of former Lithuanian Parliament House.

Vytautas Magnus University Grand Hall - S. Daukanto str.28. Located near the Laisves aleja and Vienybes sq. in the center of the city is home for various events, for instance, Kaunas Jazz festival.

Kaunas Puppet Theater – Laisves aleja, 87A. Cosy theatre, plays for children with small museum of puppets inside. Located near Musical theatre.

[edit]Cinemas

There are two multiplex cinema complexes in Kaunas. Both multiplexes - Cinamon and Forum cinemas are located in shopping centers Mega and Akropolis, respectively. Other option is the oldest movie theatre in Lithuania named Romuva (at Laisves aleja, 54) and available on rare events, such as Kaunas International film festival [62]only.

[edit]Sports

Kaunas‘ sports and leisure centres are scattered throughout Kaunas offering swimming pools, sports courts, fields and exercise equipment.

Dariaus ir Girėno Sports Complex, Perkuno str. 5, tel.: 370 37 777 589. Home of FBK Kaunas F.C. [63] 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, located near the Ažuolynas park, is also used as IAAF Accredited Training Centre [mailto: llaf2009@gmail.com] in Kaunas [64]. Stadium capacity is up to 10,000 seats. Sports complex also includes adjacent Kaunas Sports Hall - the largest arena for sports and events of Kaunas at the time of 2009. It is the first arena built in 1939 specially for basketball in Europe. Capacity is 5,000. Nearby is situated the only in Lithuania higher institution of physical education - Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education. Sports complex is accessible by from city center by bus #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaicio str.) 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).

Ąžuolynas - Sporto str. 3, tel.:+370 37 301 010; ([65]), [66]. Neighbouring to Dariaus ir Girėno sports center, there is a privately owned "Ąžuolynas“ sport center with 8 tennis courts, SPA procedures [67] and a gym available to the public.

Elnias Golf Club [68] - set at Didziosios Lapes settlement, the first golf club in Lithuania, opened in 2000, is famous not only as sports activity, but 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.

Žalgiris Sports Club [69] - A. ir J. Gravrogku str. 4; (near the shopping center Molas) tel.+370 37 351 616; +370 604 03177; if the occasion arises, universal sports complex offers 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. Working hours: Sa, Su 8 AM -8 PM; Mo-Fr 8 AM - 10 PM.

Kaunas Air Club [70] - why not explore Kaunas from the sky? You may order flights and parachute jumps from Kaunas Aeroclub. 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.

Linija [71] - Taikos av. 44A; 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. Open: Mo-Fr 7 AM-10 PM, Sa-Su 9 AM - 9 PM.

Marvele Stud Farm - Marveles str. 199. Tel.+370 688 75206. Located near the western bypass of Kaunas Marveles žirgynas is a good choice for fans of horse-riding. To get the stud farm, from the city center, take a bus #18 or taxi. Working hours: 10 AM - 8 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Notas Tennis Club [72] - Veiveriu str. 151; Situated in Aleksotas, near Darius and Girenas airport, tennis club tenders 6 tennis courts.

Kart Racing Sports Center - Raudondvario str. 105, tel.:+370 671 111 66; ([mailto: kartodromas@zebra.lt]), [73]. Situated 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 37 miles per hour (60 km/h) is 30 LTL (8,7 EUR). For kart racing center there is a kart school open on Sundays. Working hours: Tu-Su 2 PM - 8 PM; closed on Mondays.

Kaunas Yacht Club [74] - M. Gimbutienes str.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.

Legionas Paintball Club [75] - Europos av.34-62; tel.:+370 687 22333; fax.:+370 37 311 809; [mailto: info@legionas.lt] Club offers to play, both 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' 5-th Fort. Standard price for 3-4 hours of paintball is 45 LTL (€13), for airsoft game 60 LTL (€17,4).

Amazon Gym [76] - Laisves aleja, 51A (4th floor, in the courtyard). Working hours: Mo-Fr 8.30 AM - 8/9 PM; Sa-Su 11 AM- 3/3.30 PM.

[edit]Beaches

There are some beaches on the banks of Nemunas river, shores of Lampedziai lake and Kaunas Reservoir. Beaches are open in summer time.

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 str.), you should go by A. ir J. Gravrogku str. 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.

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).

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.

[edit]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 [77] - K. Donelaičio str. 58.
Kaunas University of Technology - the largest technical university in the Baltic States [78]- K. Donelaičio str. 73. (central administration).
Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education – the only institution of tertiary physical education in Lithuania [79] - Sporto str. 6.
Kaunas University of Medicine [80] - A. Mickeviciaus str. 9.
Kaunas Art Institute [81] - Muitines str. 4.
ISM University of Management and Economics [82] - E. Ozeskienes str. 18.

[edit][add listing]Buy

The most well known grocery stores are - Maxima, IKI, Rimi, Norfa, Šilas, Samsonas; Senukai (household goods). Each of them offer everything for daily needs. There are also a great amount 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.

[edit]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 str. 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 starting at 5 LTL for 200 ml. 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) - orginal national beverage made of vodka, some herbs and with honey flavour and taste.
Cottage cheese - lot's of variations.
Amber (gintaras), so called "Lithuanian gold", decorations.
Linen or wooden dolls - for children.

[edit]Where to buy

Within Kaunas there are several malls which are usually open from 8 AM until 12 PM. Tipically most shopping centers have not only dozens or more stores, but also 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.

Mega aquarium

Mega [83]- 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).

Interior of one Shopping Center in Kaunas

Akropolis [84]- 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.

Urmas [85]- “Urmas” shopping area located at the eastern part of the city, comprises of more than 65000 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 troleybusses #15,16.

Molas[86] - K. Baršausko str. 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.

Savas [87] - Savanoriu av. 346. A lot of stores, including huge RimiHypermarket, service center, coffee-house, pizzerias, and more.

Hyper Maxima - Savanoriu av. 255. Some restaurants, including self-service Delano windmill, more than 40 other shops and services available.

[edit][add listing]Eat

While in Lithuania, one should try these national dishes: appetizers - Piršteliai prie alaus - thin, rolled-up puff pastries served with beer (4-7 LTL); main courses: Cepelinai (or didžkukuliai) su spirgučiais - potato balls with meat (~11 LTL/3,2 EUR); Vėdarai - a sausage, made of a potato stuffed intestine of a pig (~10 LTL/3 EUR); Skilandis - pig stomach stuffed with meat, garlic and cold-smoked; Plokštainis - meal of potatoes(~8-12LTL/2,3-4 EUR); Bulviniai blynai (grated potato pancakes) with different sauces(~8-11 LTL); Virtinukai - curd patties(~10 LTL); Kastinys - soft sour cream butter (3-4 LTL);Šaltnosiukai - dumplings filled with lingonberries; Fish - pike or perch, is often baked whole or stuffed, or made into gefilte fish (various prices); Herring (silkė) - marinated, baked, fried, or served in aspic; soups - Šaltibarščiai (a summer soup based on beets and soured milk), Juka (blood soup) or Cabbage soup flavored with carrots, ham, onions (around 4-6 LTL). Ruginė duona (dark rye bread) is very advisable to try with soups. Lithuanian cuisine is also famous for wide use of wild berries, mushrooms, and cheese. Honey and poppy seeds are commonly used as filling in pastries. For desserts, tryŽagarėliai - twisted, thin deep-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar or Spurgos - a Lithuanian variant of doughnuts, often filled with preserves. Of course, European, Oriental, French, Italian, Russian and other cuisines are available at Kaunas' restaurants.

Chocolate Museum - Taikos av. 88; An interactive museum at the premises of largest Lithuanian chocolate producer Kraft Foods have been opened to the public since 2004. One could take a look at the cacao seeds, the spadix, the leaves of the cocoa tree, and to be introduced at the tricks of making chocolate. The museum aims to the younger audience and is opened on We 12 PM - 1 AM only. Groups from 10 to 20 people are accepted. Only pre-arranged guided tours are available, please call +370 37 305110 to register.

[edit]Budget

Spurginė - Laisvės aleja, 84. One of the last traditional places in central Kaunas, where you can buy the standard Lithuanian doughnut, known as a spurga.

Sushi Express [88] - Laisves aleja, 12A. Japanese fast food restaurant offers more than 30 sushi, maki, sashimi dishes, vegetarians as well.

Radharanė - Laisvės aleja, 40. Restaurant in the city centre, offering vegetarian Indian food at very reasonable prices (Mean dish 8 to 12 litas).

Arena Pizza - Laisves aleja, 57 and Savanoriu av. 363, [89]. Offers a huge range of pizzas and side dishes at good prices and is very centrally located.

Hesburger - Laisves aleja 48; also at Mega shopping mall, Vilniaus str.43, and Pramones avenue, 6A; (the last one - with Drive-in). Finnish style fast food.

Čili Kaimas - at Mega shopping center. Traditional Lithuanian food in a country themed surrounding; including live chickens in glass cabinets - great for kids.

Panda - M. Dauksos str. 51. Chinese restaurant in the Old Town. Very pleasant environment alongside with quick service and deliciuos dishes.

Viva blynai - Laisves aleja, 53. Tasty pancakes and dumplings.

Arbatinė - Laisves aleja, 99A. Small teahouse in front of Vytautas monument offers vegetarian menu only.

Ciau - K. Donelaičio str. 66; Tasty and welcoming but don't expect lightning fast service - a relaxed pace and a chance to watch the world go by while your food is cooked. Closest eating place to the Vytautas the Great War Museum (see above) - tasty, warm, good value but a little slow.

McDonald's - Savanoriu av. 321A, and Pramones av.8B. American fast food.

KFC and Pizza Hut - at Akropolis shopping mall.

Čili Pica [90]. One at Laisvės Aleja 76 - good value, tasty and comfortable. Also at Mega shopping center.

[edit]Mid-range

Bernelių Užeiga [91] - M. Valančiaus str. 9, also at K. Donelaičio str. 11, and Akropolis shopping mall. Tasty traditional Lithuanian dishes, soup in bowls made of bread and home brewed beer. Cosy and atmospheric and very convenient if you are in the Old Town as it is just a minute from the tourist information center.

Alkava [92] - S. Daukanto str. 23; A. Mickeviciaus str.40; Varniu str. 24; Savanoriu av.6 and more locations at shopping malls. Wonderful confectioneries with wide arrangement of patisserie and coffee.

Miesto Sodas [93] - Laisves aleja, 93. Very good restaurant offering European quisine with adjacent night club "Siena".

Crazy House [94] - Vilniaus str. 16; (at the cellar); Not very expensive, but lusciuos; some kinds of horror nights starts from 6 PM. Working hours: Mo-Th 11 AM-12PM; Fr-Sa 11AM-2AM.

Al Diwan - Girstupio str. 9-12; Middle East cuisine restaurant. Belly-dance and the hookah are available in 2 halls. Open: Fr-Sa 12 AM-2 AM; Su-Th 12 AM - 12 PM.

Bella Toscana - S. Daukanto str.14, Vilniaus str. 74. A cup of nice latte, pizzas and some fine snacks.

Konrado užeiga [95] - Laisves aleja, 49A. Situated in the courtyard of Kaunas' central avenue, restaurant offers real Lithuanian, as well as European, cuisine and live beer in three styles - retro, youth and small barel chamber.

Ramzis II [96] - M. Dauksos str. 29; Egyptian restaurant with souvenirs from Africa store in the Old Town of Kaunas. Working hours: Tu-Sa 12 AM-12PM; Su,Mo 3 PM-11 PM.

Pizza Jazz [97] - Laisves aleja, 68; Laisves Aleja, 106; Savanoriu av. 349; Taikos av. 141; and others. Great pizzas and other dishes and good beer in very comfortable surroundings.

Morkų šėlsmas [98] - Laisvės aleja, 78B. In front of Kaunas Drama theatre recently opened a restaurant and fresh pressed juice bar is highly reccomended for vegans. All menu comprises of natural ingredients, is cholesterol free, and cooked by professional man from Canada.

Milano - A. Mickeviciaus str. 19. Quality Italian pizzeria close to Laisves aleja.

In Tilsit [99]- Vytauto av. 32. Stylish restaurant with pleasant service in the business center offers European and German cuisine. Working hours: Fr,Sa 9 AM-12PM; Mo-Th 9 AM - 11PM.

Master grill - Savanoriu av. 235; At the restaurant one may enjoy traditional American steak, as well as excitement looking at preparation dishes on hot lava stones.

Abato menė - Vilniaus str. 7. At the premises of former abbey opened a culinary heritage restaurant offers delicious courses such as dumplings, fresh beer brewed in monasteries of the Netherlands and Belgium. Working hours: 10 AM - 8 PM daily.

55° - Laisves alėja, 79; one of the best restaurants in terms of service and dishes it offers in Kaunas. At the 55° restaurant guests are invited to observe the demonstration of a homemade vodka production technology. European ant Lithuanian cuisine. Open: Mo-Sa 11 AM- 12 PM; Su 11 AM - 11 PM.

Žalias Ratas - Laisvės aleja, 36b; behind tourist information center. A traditional country inn recreated in the city. Roaring fire, costumed waitresses, and tasty traditional Lithuanian food make this a great place to visit.

Yakata [100] - M. Valanciaus str. 14. Opened in 2003 Japanese restaurant also offers vegetarian dishes and European quisine.

Tiflisi - spicy Caucasian restaurant at the Mega shopping mall. Pleasant staff and ecellent wine. Sa, Su 10 AM - 11 PM; Mo-Fr 10 AM - 10 PM.

Radharane [101] - Laisves aleja, 40. Indian vegetarian restaurant with cozy atmosphere open daily from 11AM till 8 PM.

Tain Fu [102] - A. Mickeviciaus str. 8; Spicy South China's cuisine concoct by cooks from Far East. Working hours: Mo-Sa 11 AM - 11 PM; Su 12 AM - 11 PM.

AJ šokoladas - Rotuses sq. 26. Chocolate restaurant offers marvelous snacks, nice coffee, and a beautiful atmosphere in the heart of Old Town of Kaunas near City Hall square.

Pas Stanley - Vilniaus str. 24. Excellent serwice provided in family run restaurant combined with warm atmosphere of 1960s. Open: Mo-Th, Su 9 AM-12AM, Fr-Sa 9AM - 4AM.

[edit]Splurge

Bokštas [103]- Kestucio str. 86; located near Musical Theatre and former tower of the City Wall, and so named after the Tower. One of the best recently opened restaurants in Kaunas. European cuisine.

Carlstonas [104] - Kestucio str. 93; in front of Musical Theatre is set another restaurant with European, Italian and Spanich cuisine.

Gralis [105]- Trumpoji str. 10; restaurant is located close to Old Town, just get about 300 metres up the hill from Benediktiniu str. and turn left on Trumpoji stret. There are 4 banqueting halls inside on 2 floors. Luxury European cuisine, and Italian dishes have a very special place. There is also a small guesthouse alongside. In the summertime, one may enjoy unique views of nature from the terrace.

Sadute [106] - Rotuses sq. 4. Located in the very heart of Kaunas Old Town, restauraunt "Sadute" is known for groovy interior but also splendid service and clients' confidentiality.

Medžiotojų užeiga [107] - Rotuses sq.10. Restaurant offers dishes made not only from deer. High quality Lithuanian and European cuisine in 4 halls. Working hours: 11 AM - 12 PM.

Pompėja [108] V. Putvinskio str. 38; named after Roman ruined city of Pompeii, restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine for formal business lunch or for romantic dinner at the very heart of Kaunas' downtown.

Senieji rūsiai - Vilniaus str. 34; Very high quality restaurant offers three chambers and the only specially equipped Hall of Cigars in the cellars in the middle of the Old Town. Restaurant offers live music on weekends, abundant assortment of dishes, desserts and more than 120 sorts of wine. Working hours: Mo-Su 11 AM- 2 AM.

[edit][add listing]Drink

A local bar

Beer (Alus) - Utenos, Švyturys and Horn are to be recommended - expect to pay around 5 LTL (1,5 EUR) per 0.5l in tourist bars and restaurants (Around 3 LTL (1 EUR) in local bars e.g. Geru Alu Gerti Gera - has a red awning outside and is situated on Birštono street. Worth a vist just to see the wild boar skin and wild boar head on the walls).

Avilys [109] - Vilniaus str. 34. A great place to get a beer - all home brewed - but does not allow children in. The restaurant is famous for serving beer-based dishes such as soups and desserts and is proving to be a great attraction for guests and beer-lovers alike.

Fortas - K. Donelaicio str. 65. Irish pub. Working hours: Mo-Fr 11 AM- 4 PM; other days 11 AM- 12 PM.

City Caffe - Laisves aleja, 56. Opened a few years ago nifty coffee-house, now also invites everyone to indulge a wineglass in the recently renovated cellar of wine.

Stumbras Museum - K. Bugos str. 7; 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 pre-arranged 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. Working hours: Mo-Fr 12 AM- 4 PM.

Liberty pub [110] - V. Putvinskio, str.48. Irish style pub with rock and acoustic music. Working hours: Fr-Sa 11 AM-3 AM; other days: 11 AM - 12 PM.

B.O. (Blue Orange) - Muitines str. 9; very popular bar among local students. Tender friendly atmosphere, good beer, and rock music on 2 floors in 8 halls.

Senamiescio vyninė [111] - M. Dauksos str. 23. Probably the best wine-bar in the whole Kaunas offering widest wine menu. Working hours: Fr-Sa 11 AM - 12 PM; other days: 11 AM - 11 PM.

Kauno alus [112]- Savanoriu av.7. Branded pub of local brewery. Very fresh stock. Working hours: 9 AM - 9PM.

Buon giorno - Vilniaus str.34 / L. Zamenhofo str. 13. Very fresh high quality winery at the heart of Kaunas Old Town.

Barcode - Gedimino str.30/23; set near eastern end of Laisves aleja, bar offers music and more than 30 cocktail types. Working hours: Th-Sa 8 PM-5 AM. Admission for free but "face control“ exists.

Geras vyno rusys - Laisves aleja, 75. Perfectly located cellar offers wide assortment of wines. The option of fish and seafood in the menu is of more than the average. Open: Fr, Sa 11 AM - 12 PM, Su 12 AM - 10 PM; Mo-Th 10 AM - 10 PM.

W 1640 [113] - Kurpiu str.29/Birštono str. Very fresh and the only in Lithuania perfectly located in the Old Town whisky bar offers more than 150 varieties from 60 distilleries. Open: Tu-Th 5 PM- 1 AM; Fr-Sa 5 PM - 5 AM.

Antipop, Laisves aleja. Great pub just off Laisves aleja playing rock & indie music. 5 Litas a Beer. Everyone very welcoming and friendly. edit

Shamrocks, Old Town. Small pub located just in the Old Town. Excellent prices on food and drink. edit

[edit]Nightclubs

Latino [114] - Vilniaus str. 22. Latino music nightclub open to all who can get past "face control". There are 3 halls for dancing inside. Working hours: F-Sa 8PM – 4 AM.

Siena[115] - Laisvės alėja, 93; Nightclub "Siena" is in the very heart of Kaunas city center and offers dance, disco, retro music. There is a popular restaurant Miesto sodas on the first floor. Open: Th-Sa 9 PM - 4 AM.

Dzem'pub [116] - Laisvės aleja, 59. 5th floor. Great for lovers of live alternative and rock music.

Exit [117] - Maironio str. 19. The best nightclub in Lithuania with 5 bars. Dance music for up to 1500 visitors. Working hours: Saturday only 10PM - 6 AM.

Pop Star Bar [118] - Vasario 16 str. 2; Very close to Laisves aleja, undeground club offers a mix of music from disco till house. Wide arrangement of cocktails. Admission: 10-30 LTL (2,5-9 EUR). Open: Fr, Sa only 10PM - 4 AM.

Amerika pirtyje [119] - Vytauto av. 71. Nightclub offers dance and pop music is popular among students, reasonably priced. In the port area, plays middle of the road pop and disco; 5 halls overall.

Extaze [120] - Savanoriu av. 64, Dance, pop, trance, chill-out, latino music. House and RnB dance music on weekends. Restaurant offers European cuisine. Open: 24 hours daily.

Žemyn upe [121] - M. Valanciaus str. 24; perfectly situated 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. Open: Fr-Sa 11 AM - 4 AM; Th 11 AM - 3 AM; Su-We 11 AM - 1 AM.

3M club [122] - Riomerio str. 37; Latin, saxophone, percussion live music, thematic events (hen parties). Sauna and pool availble. Open: Fr-Sa (only) 10 PM - 4 AM.

Nautilus [123] - Savanoriu av. 124; quality events on 2 floors.

Combo [124]- Raudondvario str. 107. Situated near the shore of Nemunas river at the former Kaunas pier, nightclub is home for pop music, parties of 80`s, 90`s hits. Spectacular sound and images inside. Working hours: F-Sa 6PM– 3 AM.

[edit][add listing]Sleep

The number of places to stay in Kaunas grows every year. Also the choise of distinct types of accommodation increases as well. Despite it, booking in advance in summer time is recommended. There are some more other choises of staying, e.i. - motels, guesthouses, small hotels, that are not listed below.

[edit]Camping

Kaunas City Camping - Jonavos str. 51A, tel.: +370 618 09 407; fax.:+370 37 321 648 [mailto: asa@parkavimaskaune.lt] [125]. Kaunas City Camping is located just off the Vilnius-Klaipėda motorway north of the Kaunas downtown on the right bank of the Neris river. Kaunas camping offers places for 50 motor homes and an area to pitch tents. Electricity, washing facilities are available. Kaunas Old town is reachable from camping by bus #20. Prices: tents 15 LTL (4,4 EUR) /person, vehicles 34 LTL (10 EUR) /person, double chalets 100 LTL (29 EUR).

[edit]Budget

The Monks Bunk, Laisvės al. 48; tel: +37062099695 [mailto: kaunashostel@gmail.com]. Cheap and very cosy hostel in central Kaunas. You feel at home immediatly. Very friendly host. No breakfast or meals included, but you can cook in a fully equipped kitchen. Prices: from €10.

Hostel 10, Neries krantine str. 16; tel/fax.: +370 37 302 218 fax.: +370 37 302 219 [mailto: info@hostel10.lt] [126]. There are 116 beds: 14 eight-seater and 1 four-seater rooms. Breakfast (extra charge). Prices: bed – €10;

Baltosios Bures, M. Gimbutienes str. 35; tel.+370 37 370 467; fax.:+370 37 370 415; [mailto: info@jachtklubas.lt] [127] cheap, yet cosy motel alongside with Kaunas yacht club at the shore of Kaunas Reservoir in Pazaislis. Motel offers 35 double rooms with TV, Wi-Fi and showers. Prices: from €25.

Guesthouse LT, Savanoriu av. 122A; tel.:+370 686 31 934; tel.+370 37 335 014; [mailto: frugis@takas.lt] [128] comfortable, family run guesthouse with outstanding value for money also offers breakfast. 4 rooms. Price: from €22.

Agota, Savanoriu av. 226; tel.:+370 37 312 930; tel.:+370 37 771 522; fax.:+370 37 224 777; [129] cheap choice of accomodation for up to 50 persons, offers singles, doubles and triples. All rooms are equipped with free wireless internet. Price: from €13.

Musu Dvaras, Jonavos str.43B; tel.:+370 37 422 728; mobile phone: +370 614 41 631; fax.:+370 37 389 461; [130] a very fresh guesthouse offers 6 rooms for 12 persons, a restaurant, cosy banquet hall, and conference hall. Please, check in advance for price, it's negotiable.

Apple Economy Hotel, M. Valančiaus str. 19; tel./fax: +370 (37) 321 404; [mailto: info@applehotel.lt] [131]. Hotel is set in Kaunas' Old Town area and has 14 double rooms. Breakfast is not included in room price. Prices: bed – €40.

Metropolis Hotel, S. Daukanto str. 21, tel.: +370 37 205 992; fax: +370 37 20 62 69 [mailto: metropolis@greenhillhotel.lt] [132]. The location of the oldest city's hotel is in the very heart of the downtown of Kaunas. Buffet breakfast is served. 74 rooms. Prices start from €32.

Kaunas Archdiocese' Guesthouse, Rotuses sq.21; tel.:+370 37 322 597; fax.:+370 37 320 090 [mailto: sveciunamai@kn.lcn.lt] [133] ideally situated at the heart of the Old Town, the guesthouse offers 21 clean and modern room with Internet access. Prices from €23.

[edit]Mid-range

Babilonas Hotel, Raseinių str. 25, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37 202 545; fax.: +370 37 209 156; [mailto: babilonas@hotel.lt] [134] Hotel is in a quiet district of Kaunas, named Žaliakalnis. Hotel offers 10 modern arranged rooms. Prices from €49.

Regina Hotel, Plunges str. 10/A. Strazdo str.62; tel.:+370 37 262 020; fax.: +370 37 268 855; [mailto: info@regina-hotel.lt] [135] Small hotel located in quiet residential district of Vilijampole offers 10 comfortable rooms. Price from €43.

Sandija motel, Jonavos str. 45; tel.:+370 37 332 487; +370 616 48525; fax.: +370 37 363 392; [mailto: hotel@sandija.lt] [136] probably the best motel in Kaunas, opened in 1996, offers 26 modern rooms with wireless internet access and a lot of amenities. Motel is conveniently located just off the Vilnius-Klaipėda motorway. Prices start from €55 (ask for discounts in winter time).

Kunigaiksciu Mene Hotel, M. Daukšos str. 28; tel.+ 370 37 320 800; fax: +370) (37) 320872; [mailto: mene@takas.lt] [137] Three-star hotel is in the city of Kaunas, close to the historic centre and its 13th century castle. The hotel consists of 8 single and double rooms. Prices from €58.

Hotel Magnus, Vytauto str. 24, tel.: +370 37 340 000; fax.: +370 37 240 804; [mailto: info@magnushotel.lt] [138] A new 3-star hotel in the centre of Kaunas, near recently renovated Central railway station of Kaunas. 82 rooms. Hotel has parking space for 30 cars and at least 3 buses. Prices from €70.

Pažaislis park Hotel, T.Masiulio str. 18E, tel.: +370 614 63664; fax.: +370 37 351554; [mailto: pphotel@hotmail.com] [139] Hotel is in the service and entertainment park, Pažaislis Park, consisting of the Svarstyklės European and Chinese restaurant. 10 rooms. The prices start from 58 EUR per night.

Alanta Hotel, Alantos str. 33; tel.+ 370 37 731 142; fax: 370 37 733 871; [mailto: hotel@alanta.lt] [140]Three-star hotel was opened in 1997 in quiet area of Žaliakalnis district, 2 km from the city centre.8 rooms. Prices from €52.

Centre Hotel Nuova, Savanoriu Avenue 66/Zemaiciu str. 31; tel./fax: +370 37 321 418 [mailto: info@centrehotel.lt] [141] It is a new three-star hotel situated in the very heart of Kaunas city. Located in the quiet surroundings on the green slope of Žaliakalnis hill the hotel yet is very close to the city’s main artery — Savanoriu Avenue. 28 rooms. Prices from €45.

Nakties Magija Hotel - Skroblu str. 3, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37 79 79 23; fax.: +370 37 79 58 32; [mailto: naktiesmagija@gmail.com] [142] Hotel is in Žaliakalnis district, near Azuolynas park. It offers 10 modern rooms. Prices are from €63.

[edit]Splurge

Perkūno Namai Hotel, Perkuno av. 61, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37) 320 230; fax.: +370 37 323 678; [mailto: hotel@perkuno-namai.lt] [143] The hotel is the first private hotel in Kaunas. It is in a residential district named Žaliakalnis adjacent to the old oak forest. Hotel offers 29 modern rooms. Prices start from €64.

Kaunas Hotel, Laisves Avenue 79, tel: +370 37 750 850, fax +370 37 750 851 [144]. It offers comfortable rooms with views directly onto the avenue, has an elevator and provides a sumptuous breakfast in its cellar restaurant for the more discerning traveller. 85 rooms. Prices from €74.

Europa Royale Kaunas Hotel, Misko str. 11, tel.: 370 37 407 500; fax.: +370 37 407 501; [mailto: kaunas@europaroyale.com] [145] A very fresh 4 star hotel of 91 spacious rooms is situated in the centre of the city and near the shopping mall with lots of shops and restaurants. Free parking lot for cars and busses (60 parking spaces) in the back yard of the hotel and another one in front of the hotel . Prices start from €75 per night.

Best Western Santaka Hotel, J. Gruodžio st. 21, tel.: .+ 370 37 302 702; fax.: +370 37 302 700; [mailto: neris.sales@revalhotels.com] [146] Hotel is in the heart of Kaunas center, and, offers 92 stylish and well-equipped rooms with air conditioning systems. In the Hotel’s enclosed back yard there is a free parking lot and garages. Nightclub and restaurant Europa is adjacent to the hotel. Prices start from €105.

Daniela Hotel, A. Mickevičiaus str. 28, tel.: .+370 37 321 505,; fax.: +370 37 321 632; [mailto: daniela@danielahotel.lt] [147] 4 stars hotel is in the very heart of the city, next to the main pedestrian street Laisves Avenue. 75 rooms. Prices start from €85.

Park Inn by Radisson, K. Donelaicio str. 27, tel.: .+ 370 37 306 100 ; fax.: +370 37 306 200; [mailto: info.kaunas@rezidorparkinn.com] [148]Kaunas’ largest hotel in very central location with largest Conference and Event centre in Kaunas. 4 star hotel has 208 air-conditioned rooms in Northern European style.

Daugirdas Hotel, T.Daugirdo str. 4, tel.: .+370 37 301 561; fax.: +370 37 301 562; [mailto: hotel@daugirdas.lt ] [149] New business class four stars hotel and restaurant "Daugirdas" is situated in the very Old Town of Kaunas, in a restored XVI - XIX century building, 50 m from the Town Hall, in the confluence of the biggest Lithuanian rivers. 48 rooms. Prices start from €75 per night.

Amberton Cozy Hotel, Rotušes sq. 5 / V. Kuzmos str. 8, tel.:+ 370 37 229 981; fax.: +370 37 220 355; [mailto: kaunas@klaipedahotel.lt] [150] 4 star hotel is newly renovated, situated in the Old Town, and, surrounded by architectural monuments – Kaunas Castle, Cathedral Basilica, Vytautas Church, Town Hall, St. Francis Xavier Church, and Perkūnas House. 28 rooms. Prices start from €86.

Hermis Hotel - Savanoriu av. 404; tel.+370 37 490 300; fax.:+370 37 490 301; [mailto: info@hermishotel.lt] [151] 4 star hotel situated at the main entrance to the city from Vilnius direction, offers 13 modern rooms with Italian cuisine restaurant Portofino, wellness center and conference hall. Prices from €73.

[edit]Bed & Breakfast

Solo B&B, [152] Dysnos 10, tel.+370 687 54443; +370 37 743 839 [153]. Solo B&B is newly built, in 2006, annex in the private territory, which provides excellent lodging facilities. Currently offering 2 homelike and modernly designed (27 sq.m.) rooms with the separate entrances and outside terraces that lead to the spacious private garden.

[edit]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.

[edit]Cope

[edit]Tourist Information

Internet. Free Wi-Fi hotspots all over the city, especially in restaurants. Since June 2009 free Wi-Fi available on all Laisves aleja. According to some resources [154], Kaunas is 3rd city in the world with highest broadband Internet speed in 2009.

For tourism information there is Kaunas region tourism information center functioning since 1999. It also has offices at Kaunas airport, Central train station, Kaunas Bus station, and "Park Inn by Radisson Hotel“.

The official contacts are:

Kaunas Region Tourism Information Center [155], Laisves aleja, 36. Tel.: +370 37 323 436; fax:: +370 37 423 678, mail: info@kaunastic.lt. Working hours: June-August: Mo-Fr 9AM – 6 PM, Sa 10AM- 6 PM, -Su 10 AM - 3 PM; September –May Mo-Fr 9 AM – 6 PM, Sa 10AM- 3 PM, October-April: Mo-Th 9 AM – 6 PM, Fr 9AM-5PM.

Kaunas Old Town Tourist Office [156], Rotuses sq. 29. Tel./fax.:+370 37 321 112; mail: info@kaunovartai.lt. Working hours: Mo-Fr 9 AM – 8 PM, Sa-Su 10 AM- 6 PM.

Kaunas International Airport Tel.:+370 616 50991; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Open:

1 hour 30 minutes before and after the company`s "Ryanair" flight.

Kaunas Train Station - M.K. Čiurlionio str. 16; Tel.:+370 37 272 955; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours:

Mo-Fr 9.10AM - 5.30PM; Lunch break: 1PM-2PM.

Kaunas Bus Station – Vytauto av.24; Tel.:+370 37 322 222; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours:

Mo-Sa 8AM - 7PM; Su: 8PM-3PM.

Park Inn by Radisson Hotel – K. Donelaičio str. 27; Tel.:+370 37 306 100; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours: Mo-Sa 6 PM – 9 AM; Sa-Su: all day and night.

[edit]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 Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital [157] - the largest medical institution in Lithuania. The hospital 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. The hospital address – Eivieniu str. 2. Tel.: + 370 37 326 375; Fax.:+370 37 326 427.

[edit]Get out

Everyone, while in Kaunas, should take some time and make a short trip to Birštonas - one of the oldest balneology resorts in Lithuania. Birštonas is located about 30 km (19 miles) south from Kaunas among the beautiful forests in the Great Loops of the Nemunas river. Buses #52 leave often from Kaunas central bus station, cost a few Litas and take about 40 minutes. Birštonas tourism information center [158]is in the heart of the town.

18 km (11 miles) to the east of Kaunas near Kaunas-Vilnius motorway in Rumšiškės is located one of the largest in Europe open-air ethnographic museum[159]. It displays the heritage of Lithuanian rural life in authentic re-erected buildings buildings from the 18th–19th centuries. Rumšiškės also belongs to the Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park. Museum is easily reachable by bus, taxi or (in summer times) by boat from Kaunas Pažaislis pier.

Some hours enough to make a visit to Zapyškis, 17 km (10 miles) west from Kaunas on the left bank of the Nemunas River. Zapyškis small town community is proud of St. John Baptist Church built in a gothic style in 1578. From the beginning of 20th century not used for cult. Sacral mucic concerts, cultural events are held here in summer time.

Adventure park Lokes peda (A Bear Foot) [160] was opened in 2005 in Jonava region 35 km (22 miles) northeast from Kaunas. The park for lovers of active leisure is accessable by car or taxi going by highway #A6.

Druskininkai town has a sanative resort tradition for more than 200 years. Regular buses from Kaunas are the best way of getting here. Tickets setting you back in the region of 25-30 LTL. Buses take approximately 2.5 hours and depart every 1-2 hours between 5.30 AM and 7 PM.

Notes

All other info on this blog is original

Wiki

Thank you Jimmy Donal for creating wiki!

Pages

Wiki Kaunas travel guide

Kaunas

contents

[edit]Understand

[edit]Climate

[edit]History

[edit]Get in

[edit]By plane

[edit]By road

[edit]By train

[edit]By bus

[edit]By boat

[edit]Get around

[edit]By bus

[edit]By trolleybus

[edit]By microbus

[edit]By taxi

[edit]By car

[edit]By bike

[edit]By boat

[edit][add listing]See

[edit]Old Town

[edit]Central Kaunas

[edit]Other Sights

[edit][add listing]Do

[edit]Festivals

[edit]Theatres

[edit]Cinemas

[edit]Sports

[edit]Beaches

[edit]Learn

[edit][add listing]Buy

[edit]What to buy

[edit]Where to buy

[edit][add listing]Eat

[edit]Budget

[edit]Mid-range

[edit]Splurge

[edit][add listing]Drink

[edit]Nightclubs

[edit][add listing]Sleep

[edit]Camping

[edit]Budget

[edit]Mid-range

[edit]Splurge

[edit]Bed & Breakfast

[edit]Stay safe

[edit]Cope

[edit]Tourist Information

[edit]Hospitals

[edit]Get out