Lykkers, are you searching for a city break that blends history, cozy old streets, and lakeside tranquility? Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, is the perfect weekend getaway.

Known as the cultural and academic heart of the country, Kaunas charms visitors with its lively boulevards, open-air museums, and elegant architecture.

Whether you’re into history, food, or scenic nature walks, this guide maps out the top attractions and a weekend 2-day DIY itinerary to make your trip unforgettable.

Rumsiskes Museum

Start your trip learning about Lithuania’s traditions at the Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum, one of Europe’s largest ethnographic museums. Founded in 1966, its 80-hectare grounds feature authentic homesteads and nearly 91,000 exhibits from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Entrance tickets cost around $6–8 per person, with reduced fees for children. It’s an ideal half-day trip for families and culture lovers.

The St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral Basilica

Lithuania’s largest structure. Its Baroque-style details and intricate interior make it worth a quick stop during your walking tour. Entry is free, and it’s conveniently located near other landmarks, making it easy to combine with a cafe stop nearby.

Juniper Valley

Need fresh air? Head to Juniper Valley (Kadagiu Slėnis), a peaceful hiking path with views over the Kaunas Reservoir. A scenic wooden boardwalk meanders through juniper trees, offering photo-worthy vistas. It’s about 30 minutes from Kaunas by car or bus, making it a great nature escape during your weekend.

Laisvės Aleja

Kaunas’s main pedestrian boulevard, Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue), stretches nearly 1.6 km. Packed with restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and bookstores, it’s perfect for a leisurely evening walk. Street performances and seasonal markets give it a lively charm. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants recommended below.

Kaunas Old Town

With cobbled streets, colorful houses, and the Town Hall square, it feels both historic and contemporary. Shops sell local crafts, while trendy coffee houses give it modern energy. Spend a morning here exploring Kaunas Castle, strolling to Vilniaus Street, or shopping for souvenirs.

Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Begin with Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum, learning about traditional Lithuanian villages. Spend the late afternoon at Juniper Valley for nature views. End your evening on Laisves Aleja, enjoying dinner at a local trattoria.

Day 2: Wander through Kaunas Old Town, visiting Kaunas Castle and admiring colorful streets. In the afternoon, stop by the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul to see its Baroque-style details, then explore boutique shops and cafés before departure.

Where to Stay

Backpacker Hostels: The Monk’s Bunk ($12/night), R Hostel ($12/night), Chocolate Hostel ($15/night, free cancellation).

Budget Stays: Oak House Apartments ($30/night), Hotel Metropolis ($36/night with breakfast), Nemuno Apartment ($36/night, free cancellation).

Luxury Comfort: Best Western Santakos Hotel ($61/night with breakfast), Europa Royale Kaunas ($63/night with spa access), Hotel Kaunas ($65/night, indoor pool and breakfast).

Where to Eat

Bernelių Užeiga – Traditional Lithuanian cuisine in a rustic setting. Try the grilled trout and roasted duck. Mains $12–$18.

Monai – A modern, fine-dining restaurant known for its creative take on local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally but often features dishes like pike-perch from Lithuanian lakes, roasted lamb, or free-range chicken. A great choice for a special occasion. Mains $20–$35.

Spurginė – A legendary spot famous for its hot, fresh doughnuts (spurgos). This is a perfect spot for a sweet treat or a simple, vegetarian-friendly snack. Doughnuts from $1.

Conclusion

Kaunas is a city that rewards every traveler, whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or modern urban charm. A weekend here allows you to explore open-air museums, serene monasteries, cobbled Old Town lanes, and vibrant boulevards. Friends, which part of Kaunas would make it to your own DIY itinerary — the peaceful Juniper Valley hike, or the atmospheric Old Town stroll?