Kaunas

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Kaunas

• Morning Activity: Kaunas Old Town
  Explore the cobbled streets of Kaunas Old Town, home to stunning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Visit the iconic Kaunas Cathedral and stroll through the Town Hall Square.
  Duration: 2-3 hours
  Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy morning light for photos.

• Lunch Suggestion: Bernelių Užeiga
  Indulge in traditional Lithuanian cuisine, such as cepelinai (potato dumplings) or šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup).
  Location: Near Old Town

• Afternoon Activity: Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature
  Dive into Lithuanian literary history at this charming museum dedicated to the poet Maironis. The exhibits showcase the evolution of Lithuanian literature.
  Duration: 1-2 hours
  Tip: Check for any special exhibitions happening during your visit.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at Storiaus Džiaugsmas
  Experience a cozy atmosphere with delicious local dishes, including smoked fish and hearty stews.
  Duration: 1.5 hours
  Tip: Try the local beer selection.

Day 2: Art & Culture

• Morning Activity: Contemporary Art Centre
  Visit the largest contemporary art center in the Baltic states, featuring rotating exhibitions from both local and international artists.
  Duration: 2 hours
  Tip: Check the schedule for guided tours or workshops.

• Lunch Suggestion: Coffee1
  A trendy café known for its excellent coffee and light bites. Try their homemade pastries.
  Location: Near the Art Centre

• Afternoon Activity: Žaliakalnis Funicular Railway
  Take this charming funicular to the top of the hill, which offers stunning views of the city and leads to the Church of St. Michael the Archangel.
  Duration: 1 hour
  Tip: Bring your camera for panoramic shots.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at the Vytautas Magnus University Restaurant
  Enjoy a meal in an academic setting, with dishes inspired by local ingredients.
  Duration: 1.5 hours
  Tip: Reservations are recommended.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning Activity: Nemunas Island Park
  Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore this peaceful park. Don't miss the Kaunas Lagoon and the Zalioji (Green) Bridge.
  Duration: 2-3 hours
  Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water.

• Lunch Suggestion: Prie Katedros
  This café offers a variety of salads, soups, and pastries with a view of the cathedral.
  Location: Close to the park

• Afternoon Activity: Pazaislis Monastery
  Take a short drive to this beautiful Baroque monastery located by the Kaunas Reservoir. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a stroll.
  Duration: 1.5-2 hours
  Tip: Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at Monte Pacis
  Set in a historical monastery, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
  Duration: 2 hours
  Tip: Try their signature dishes with a glass of local wine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Trakai

• Full-Day Activity: Trakai Castle
  Take a day trip to Trakai, a picturesque town famous for its island castle. Explore the castle’s museum, walk around the lakes, and enjoy local kibinai (meat pastries).
  Duration: Full day (Travel: ~30 minutes each way)
  Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and maximize your visit.

• Lunch Suggestion: Kybynlar
  Try authentic kibinai in Trakai, known for their flaky pastry filled with meat or vegetables.
  Location: Near the castle

• Evening Activity: Return to Kaunas
  Relax at your hotel or take an evening stroll along the Nemunas River.

Day 5: Hidden Gems of Kaunas

• Morning Activity: Ninth Fort
  Visit this historical site that offers insights into Lithuania's complex history during WWII. The museum is both informative and moving.
  Duration: 2 hours
  Tip: Dress warmly as it can be chilly inside the fort.

• Lunch Suggestion: Senoji Trobelė
  A rustic restaurant offering traditional Lithuanian fare in a cozy setting.
  Location: Near the Ninth Fort

• Afternoon Activity: Kaunas Botanical Garden
  Stroll through the lush gardens, featuring a diverse range of plants and flowers. It's a perfect place for some relaxation.
  Duration: 1.5-2 hours
  Tip: Visit the tropical greenhouse for a unique experience.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at Senoji Trobelė
  Return for a delightful dinner with local dishes and wines.
  Duration: 1.5 hours

Day 6: Local Experiences

• Morning Activity: Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide
  Enjoy a personalized walking tour that caters to your interests, providing insights into local life and hidden gems.
  Duration: 3 hours
  Tip: Prepare a list of interests to discuss with your guide.
  Private Custom Walking Tour
  

• Lunch Suggestion: Užgavėnės
  This eatery specializes in Lithuanian pancakes and hearty dishes.
  Location: Near your walking tour endpoint

• Afternoon Activity: Visit a Local Market
  Explore Kaunas Central Market, a vibrant market filled with local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.
  Duration: 1.5 hours
  Tip: Bring cash for purchases.

• Evening Activity: Attend a Local Event or Concert
  Check local listings for cultural events or concerts happening during your stay.
  Tip: Book tickets in advance if necessary.

Day 7: Departure Day

• Morning Activity: Relax at the Hotel or Last-minute Shopping
  Spend your final morning unwinding at your hotel or picking up souvenirs from local shops.
  Duration: 2-3 hours

• Lunch Suggestion: Dine at the Hotel or Local Café
  Enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading to the airport.

• Departure Activity: Private Transfer to Kaunas Airport
  Avoid the hassle of public transport with a private transfer to the airport.
  Duration: 30-40 minutes
  Departure Private Transfer
  

Summary

This 7-day itinerary in Kaunas balances historical exploration, cultural immersion, and relaxation, offering a comprehensive view of this charming Lithuanian city. From the cobbled streets of the Old Town to the serene landscapes of Trakai, you’ll experience the best Kaunas has to offer, enriched by local flavors and unique encounters.