Kaunas – Cultural Capital with Tradition

Kaunas is the second largest city in Lithuania after Vilnius. The rich history of the former Lithuanian capital, which still shapes the cityscape today, dates back to the 14^th century. Divided into new and old towns, Kaunas has both a modern, creative side and neighbourhoods where you feel as if time has stood still. To stroll through the alleys of the well-preserved old town is to experience pure relaxation. The many architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque to Bauhaus make Kaunas an architectural jewel in European city tourism.

In the 2022 Capital of Culture year, Kaunas presented a wide range of cultural offerings and put modernist architecture right in the foreground. Many small galleries, art events and theatres, as well as a wealth of interesting museums, still attract culture lovers to the Lithuanian city today. Numerous festivals such as the Architecture Festival, Design Week and the Textile Art Biennale complement its extensive cultural programme.

Kaunas is embedded in a beautiful natural landscape characterised by dense forests, lakes and rivers. The city, which lies at the confluence of the Neris and Memel rivers, is often referred to by locals as the Heart of Lithuania. Due to its central location in Lithuania, the smallest Baltic country can be easily explored from Kaunas. The city is ideal both as a starting point for a tour of Lithuania and for day trips in all directions. Beautiful destinations include the Curonian Spit with the highest dunes in Europe, the Trakai Water Fortress, the magnificent forest and lake landscapes of the national parks and the Siauliai Hill of Crosses. Those who do not yet know Lithuania will discover a country full of unknown beauty.

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