Lithuania’s historic second city, Kaunas, packs a powerful punch for travelers seeking authentic experiences. The compact Old Town, dating from medieval times through the 18th century, makes an ideal base for walking tours. We’re especially fond of the guided Old Town walks, which take you past the imposing Kaunas Castle and across the picturesque Vytautas Bridge while explaining the city’s fascinating past in clear, relatable terms.
The IX Fort Museum tours stand out for their moving and well-presented look at World War II history. For something lighter, the food-focused walking tours offer excellent introductions to Lithuanian cuisine while exploring the city center.
These standout tours hit the sweet spot between information and entertainment, particularly when led by the city’s best local guides. Let’s explore our favorite Kaunas tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- The Kaunas Old Town Tour + IX Fort Museum offers an immersive experience through the city’s architectural styles and iconic landmarks with an expert guide.
- The Kaunas Private Walking Tour provides a highly-rated, personalized experience with engaging stories and historical insights, suitable for various accessibility needs.
- The Kaunas City Center Tour + IX Fort Museum includes private transportation, lunch, and entrance tickets, offering a comprehensive exploration of the city.
- The Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide allows for a tailored experience based on traveler interests, with language options and accessibility accommodations.
- The Recreational Tour in Kaunas – The City of Freedom offers a virtual guided experience with local food and drinks, departing from the Vytautas the Great War Museum.
Kaunas Old Town Tour + IX Fort Museum (Bonus)
As one explores the charming Kaunas Old Town, the wealth of architectural styles spanning the 14th to 18th centuries captivates visitors.
This private tour offers an in-depth look at Lithuania’s second-largest city, showcasing its most iconic landmarks. Guests will visit Kaunas Castle, St. George the Martyr Church, and the Vytautas the Great Bridge, seeing the city’s rich history.
The tour also includes a bonus visit to the IX Fort Museum, providing groups of up to four with exclusive access to this important historical site.
Led by an expert guide, the tour ensures a personalized experience, with ample opportunities to learn about Kaunas’s past. Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour starts at Kaunas Castle and ends at the Vytautas the Great Bridge.
Available from April 2024 to March 2025, the tour operates daily, with flexible start times. Priced at $52.93 per group of up to 15 people, the tour offers excellent value and consistently positive reviews, making it a must-do activity for those visiting Kaunas.
Read our full review: Kaunas Old Town Tour + IX Fort Museum (Bonus) Review
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Kaunas Private Walking Tour
The Kaunas Private Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Lithuania’s second-largest city, providing visitors with an immersive experience that showcases its rich history and architectural wonders.
With a 4.8/5 rating from 5 reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for those seeking an in-depth understanding of Kaunas.
Priced at $98.45 per group (up to 15 people), the tour starts at the monument of a man with a walking stick and ends at the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, allowing participants to discover the city’s highlights.
The knowledgeable guide offers historical context and engaging stories, bringing the city’s past to life. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals, and is conveniently located near public transportation.
Reviewers praise the tour’s informative and lively atmosphere, though some suggest that certain attractions could benefit from more detailed information.
Read our full review: Kaunas Private Walking Tour Review
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Kaunas City Center Tour + IX Fort Museum (Bonus)
Providing a comprehensive exploration of Kaunas’ city center and the IX Fort Museum, this captivating tour offers visitors an immersive experience that delves into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Priced at $105.86 per group (up to 15 participants), this private tour includes private transportation, lunch, and entrance tickets to the museums, making it a value-packed experience.
With a 5.0 rating based on a single review, the tour departs from the iconic Kaunas Castle and concludes at the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, or an agreed-upon location if the bonus option is chosen.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s situated near public transportation, catering to a moderate physical fitness level.
Operated by Karolis Sabutis, the tour provides a flexible start time within the opening hours from September 8, 2022, to March 31, 2025, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Kaunas City Center Tour + IX Fort Museum (Bonus) Review
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Private Custom Walking Tour With a Local Guide in Kaunas
Travelers seeking a personalized exploration of Kaunas can embark on a Private Custom Walking Tour with a local guide. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing visitors to customize the experience to their interests.
The tour is led by an English, French, Italian, and Spanish-speaking guide, ensuring seamless communication. Along the way, the guide provides assistance with booking tickets for desired attractions, though the tour itself focuses on covering the city’s highlights rather than entering monuments.
The tour can be conveniently picked up from the traveler’s accommodation in Kaunas or the cruise terminal, with a meeting point arranged if the hotel is outside the city center. The tour may end at a different location, which can be specified in advance.
Priced from $74.10 per person, the tour allows for private exploration and is accessible to most travelers, including those with service animals, strollers, and wheelchairs. Personal expenses and transportation costs during the tour aren’t included, but food and drink options are available.
Read our full review: Private Custom Walking Tour With a Local Guide in Kaunas Review
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Recreational Tour in Kaunas – The City of Freedom
Although Kaunas is renowned for its captivating historical sites, the city’s Recreational Tour offers an opportunity to take in the vibrant culture and natural beauty. Priced at £50.79 for up to 5 participants, this private tour ensures a personalized experience led by a virtual guide via Messenger.
The tour departs from the Vytautas the Great War Museum, providing a convenient starting point to explore the city’s sights. Accessible by stroller and accommodating service animals, the Recreational Tour caters to a wide range of travelers.
Along the way, participants can indulge in local food and drinks, enhancing their overall experience. With the flexibility of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, travelers can book with confidence.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Recreational Tour in Kaunas promises to showcase the city’s unique charm and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Recreational Tour in Kaunas – The City of Freedom Review
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Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour
For those seeking a thrilling exploration of Kaunas’ dark past, the Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour is a must-experience adventure. During this 2-hour tour, you will explore the spooky stories, grisly massacres, and cruel punishments that have marked the medieval city’s history.
Guests will start their journey at the iconic Kaunas Castle, situated along the Nemunas River, and hear captivating tales of local legends and ghostly encounters.
As the tour progresses, the guide will shed light on the conflicts between Lutherans and Catholics that have shaped the old town, as well as uncover the grim fates of corrupt city officials.
Participants will be immersed in the eerie atmosphere of Kaunas’ historic streets, learning about the city’s dark past through a lens of horror and intrigue.
At $98.45 per person, this private tour offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the haunting legacy of Kaunas’ Old Town.
Read our full review: Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Is the Bus Ride From Vilnius to Kaunas?
The bus ride from Vilnius to Kaunas typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Buses run frequently between the two cities, providing a convenient and affordable transportation option for travelers.
What Are the Best Souvenirs to Buy in Kaunas?
Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Kaunas include traditional Lithuanian amber jewelry, intricate wooden carvings, and handmade textiles like Žemaičių juosta scarves. These local crafts offer a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Can I Visit the Kaunas ŽAlgiris Arena?
Yes, you can visit the Kaunas Žalgiris Arena. It’s the home venue of the basketball team BC Žalgiris and hosts various sporting events and concerts throughout the year. Guided tours provide behind-the-scenes access to the arena’s facilities.
Are There Any Hiking Trails Near Kaunas Old Town?
Yes, there are several hiking trails near Kaunas Old Town. The most popular is the Nemunas River Trail, which offers scenic views of the old town and surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the trails in the Kaunas Lagoon Regional Park.
What Is the Dress Code for the Kaunas Ghost Tour?
There’s no strict dress code for the Kaunas Ghost Tour, though comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants should dress casually and be prepared to explore the city’s historic sites after dark.
The Sum Up
Kaunas offers a diverse range of tour options for visitors to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From guided walking tours of the Old Town to visits to the IX Fort Museum, travelers can enjoy Kaunas’ heritage and contemporary sights. Whether one seeks a private, customized experience or a group tour, there’s a Kaunas tour to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.