When we decided to spend one day in Kaunas, Lithuania, we knew we needed a solid plan. The city is dotted with attractions – but the sights are more spread out than in Vilnius and Trakai.
With just one day to get acquainted with the distinct architecture, unique viewpoints and artistic gems, we created a sightseeing route that showcased the best of Kaunas!
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Planning a DIY Day Trip to Kaunas
The logistical aspects of our day trip from Vilnius couldn’t have been easier to plan. The two cities are connected by train – and the ride takes just a little over an hour.
We bought our tickets at the Vilnius Train Station just prior to departure, but you can purchase them online, too.
The Kaunas Train Station is located on the southeast side of Centras, which is the district where most sights are located. Still, it’s a bit of a walk into the center (but you can take a bus).
How To Spend One Day in Kaunas, Lithuania
We have packed this One-Day Kaunas Itinerary to the brim! It outlines what to see in the morning, afternoon and evening. Plus, we share our map and personal travel tips so that you can easily plan your trip!
Morning: Kaunas Market and Park
Start your 1 day in Kaunas at the Miesto Turgus City Market – it’s just steps from the train station.
The small yet bustling marketplace has everything you need – fresh bread, cured meats, local cheese – to pull together a picnic lunch for later in the day.
Next, head to Ramybes Park. It sits on the site of a former 19th century cemetery, which was frequently used in the 1950s for anti-Soviet demonstrations.
Today, the gorgeous green space is shaded by towering trees that are especially pretty during autumn and decorated with monuments.
Top Tip: The nearby Akropolis Shopping Mall is a convenient place to stop for free bathrooms.
Mid-Morning: Kaunas Riverside and Viewpoint
The Nemunas River flows along the south side of the Kaunas Central district – and, with its pedestrian promenade, it’s a fantastic place for a late morning stroll.
At Simonas Daukantas Bridge, cross onto Nemunas Island. It’s home to recreational spaces, the Kaunas and Japan Friendship Garden and Mokslo Sala Science Museum.
Walk the length of the island to the west, then make your way to Aleksotas Hill on the south riverbank. From here, take the stairs or ride the cheap, cash-only funicular to the top.
From the summit, views stretch across the rooftops of the Old Town. We believe it’s one of the best things to do in Kaunas!
Next, head back across the river to the beautiful Gothic Church of Vytautas the Great. Also called the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, it dates to 1400 and is the oldest church in Kaunas.
Tucked onto a side street next to the church is the stunning House of Perkunas. Built in 1440, the Flamboyant Gothic marvel has served as a merchant office, a Jesuit chapel, a school and a theater.
It now houses a museum (with very limited hours) dedicated to Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz, who attended school here.
Travel Tip: Instead of making the long walk to the funicular and Aleksotas Observation Deck, you can hop on a bus or grab an Uber.
Mid-Day: Confluence Park and Kaunas Castle
Before navigating the streets of the Old Town, stick to the riverside and follow the trail into Confluence Park – which we feel is the perfect place for your picnic lunch.
The space boasts walking paths, grassy fields, an ancient Pagan ritual site, statues and artwork (the Zmogus Kankorezis ‘Pinecone Man’ is our favorite).
Be sure to walk all the way to the most western point; it marks the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris Rivers.
Now circle back along the northern boundary of the park to the formidable castle – it is a must-see Kaunas attraction!
Standing since the 14th century, the medieval fortress has held many purposes – from defensive to residential and administrative to correctional. Now, it’s part of the Kaunas City Museum (ticket required).
St. George the Martyr Church – yet another Gothic masterpiece – is situated to the south of the castle. Built in the late 1400s, it was used for a time as a medicinal warehouse and has recently been renovated. It’s free to visit.
The north side of the castle is marked by a mighty Vytis monument called the Freedom Warrior. An exceptionally detailed equestrian statue that was created in 2018, Vytis is a national symbol of Lithuania.
Pro Tip: Just steps away are two more modern artworks: The Kaunas Sign (fun for photo ops) and The Wise Old Man (one of the city’s best street art murals).
Afternoon: Kaunas Old Town
In the afternoon of your one-day trip to Kaunas, set off to explore the top sights in Old Town. The district can trace its history to the 10th century.
Begin at Kaunas Town Hall. Architecturally exquisite, the 16th century building is listed on the register of Cultural Monuments of Lithuania, and it’s long been one of the top things to see in Kaunas.
The elegant white building and its tall, slender spire have been dubbed The White Swan. It is a popular place to get married (and also houses a museum).
It sits in the middle of the vast Rotuses Square (which, unfortunately, was blocked off and under construction during our visit).
The hulking brick building on the northeast side of the square is the 15th century Cathedral Basilica of St Peter and St Paul. The outward appearance belies its ornate and glittering interior, so be sure to step inside!
From here, the city’s oldest thoroughfare – Vilniaus Street – leads eastward. In fact, as the name suggests, it is the same road that once led all the way to the capital city of Vilnius.
The pedestrian lane is lined with 16th century buildings housing modern cafes and boutique shops.
It’s one of the most atmospheric streets in Kaunas, so be sure to walk the complete length of it. That said, don’t hesitate to detour onto the quaint cobblestoned alleys on either side!
Fun Tip: Toward the far end of Vilniaus Gatve, notice the Zen Rabbit sculpture sitting on the ledge.
Late-Afternoon: New Town Kaunas
Developed in the mid-1800s – New Town is best known for its functionalism architecture from between the First and Second World Wars.
The modern urban landscape has recently been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Outstanding Universal Value – and there are quite a few gems nestled in the district.
The Historical Presidential Palace served as the official state residence when Kaunas was the temporary capital of Lithuania from 1919 to 1939.
Today, it houses a museum dedicated to Lithuanian history – and the adjacent garden features statues of former Lithuanian presidents.
Tucked inconspicuously between buildings is the Church of St. Gertrude. Likely dating to the 15th century, we heard that the inside is utterly charming (but the doors were locked when we visited).
Laisves Aleja – or Liberty Avenue – is a spectacular 1-mile-long pedestrian street lined with linden trees. Highlights along the route are the Freedom Avenue Fountain and the grandiose Church of St. Michael the Archangel.
Kiemo Galerija – or Yard Gallery – is a true hidden gem in Kaunas. Local artists have transformed the mundane courtyard into a creative space of fun and colorful street art.
More museums and monuments are scattered throughout New Town. Three of the most popular – Vytautas the Great War Museum, MK Ciurlionis Museum of Art and the off-beat Devils’ Museum – are clustered together near Unity Square.
One final place to see is the massive, modern and sparkling Christ’s Resurrection Basilica. The gleaming white structure sits on top of a hill and the rooftop view extends over the entire city.
Travel Tips: The church is free to enter, but the viewing deck requires a ticket. Also, you don’t need to climb the stairs to get here, there’s an inexpensive funicular.
Early Evening: Kaunas Craft Beer and Dinner
After a long day of sightseeing, end your Kaunas day trip by sampling some local beverages.
Vingiu Dubingiu Aludė is a fun craft beer bar with 8 rotating taps – and the bartenders are both friendly and knowledgeable.
We also love the beers from Genys – an independent brewery located in Kaunas – and their taproom is right on Liberty Avenue. Plus, they serve delicious pizzas!
Food Tip: As we were in a rush to catch the train back to Vilnius, we grabbed yummy wraps from Kebab Point!
Kaunas Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of the places to see in Kaunas tagged below.
Kaunas Travel Tips
Now that you know what to do in Kaunas for a day, we have some honest advice that can help with your trip planning!
Is One Day in Kaunas Enough?
We think spending 1 day in Kaunas is enough for a quick glimpse of the city. That said, we felt a little rushed. Halfway through, we realized we could have easily spent two days in Kaunas exploring the sights.
Where To Stay in Kaunas
If you plan on spending 24 hours in Kaunas, you will probably want to find a place to sleep! The Daugirdas Old City Hotel is our top pick.
Located just steps from Old Town Square in a restored 16th century building, the property boasts heaps of character at fair prices.
What To Bring
Honestly, for this Kaunas 1-Day Itinerary, you won’t need much…but you do want the essentials!
We clocked quite a few miles, so good travel shoes are a must. I’m glad I wore these versatile trainers.
Make sure to bring a camera! The Canon Rebel has long been our reliable and affordable travel camera.
Wear a zippered day pack that is big enough to stow everything you will need, like these small backpacks.
Remember a power bank! We’re glad we had our Anker portable charger for a midday boost.
Start planning your trip to Lithuania! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Lithuania Travel Guides
- What To Do in Vilnius
- Must-Eat Vilnius Food
- Self-Guided Vilnius Walking Tour
- A Self-Guided Walk in Uzupis
- DIY Day Trip from Vilnius to Trakai
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