Kaunas Castle

Kauno pilis

A medieval Gothic castle from the 14th century sitting at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. Its round tower and ramparts anchor the historic Old Town and host exhibitions on the region's history.

Things to do

• Climb the round tower — Ascend the castle's iconic surviving round tower for views over the river confluence and Old Town.
• Explore the history exhibitions — Wander the museum displays inside the castle covering Kaunas's medieval past and the castle's role defending against the Teutonic Order.
• Walk the ramparts and moat — Stroll around the restored bastion, ramparts, and reconstructed moat that once fortified the northeast corner.
• See the Nemunas-Neris confluence — Head to the nearby riverbank to watch the two great rivers meet just below the castle walls.
• Visit Santaka Park — Relax in the green park at the rivers' junction, a popular spot for picnics and festivals beside the castle.
• Photograph the castle at golden hour — Capture the red-brick Gothic walls glowing at sunset from the Neris embankment path.

Food to try

• Cepelinai — Try Lithuania's signature potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat, served with sour cream and bacon at Old Town taverns.
• Kibinai — Sample these baked pastries filled with meat or vegetables, a Karaim specialty found in nearby Kaunas eateries.
• Šaltibarščiai — Cool off with the bright pink cold beetroot soup, best in summer with a side of boiled potatoes.
• Kastinys — Taste this whipped sour cream butter, a traditional Samogitian dairy dish served with potatoes.
• Craft beer at a local brewpub — Kaunas has a lively craft brewing scene; sample regional Lithuanian ales in Old Town bars near the castle.

Local customs & good to know

• Combine with the Old Town — The castle sits at the edge of Kaunas Old Town, so pair your visit with the Town Hall Square and Vilnius Street pedestrian route.
• Check exhibition hours — The castle museum has set opening times and is often closed on Mondays, so verify before visiting.
• Greet with 'Labas' — A friendly 'labas' (hello) and 'ačiū' (thank you) in Lithuanian are appreciated by locals.
• Cash for small vendors — While cards are widely accepted, keep some euros handy for small kiosks and festival stalls around Santaka Park.

Nearby

• Kaunas Old Town — 0 km
• Kaunas — 1 km
• Ninth Fort — 5 km
• Pazaislis Monastery — 8 km