Kaunas

Kaunas is Lithuania's second-largest city and a cultural hub set at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. Known for its compact, walkable centre, lively street life and outstanding modernist architecture, the city blends centuries of history with a confident contemporary energy.

Kaunas served as Lithuania's temporary capital from 1920 to 1940, a period that shaped its interwar character and left a remarkable collection of modernist buildings now recognised by UNESCO. Its roots reach much further back: the 14th-century Kaunas Castle marks the beginnings of the Old Town, while the city's later role as European Capital of Culture in 2022 highlighted its strong arts scene.

Landmarks range from the Gothic and Renaissance Old Town, with the white Town Hall known as the "White Swan" and pedestrianised Vilniaus Street, to Laisvės Alėja, one of Europe's longest pedestrian boulevards. The hilltop Christ's Resurrection Basilica, the Baroque Pažaislis Monastery and the city's two historic funiculars add distinctive views and experiences.

Neighbourhoods such as the Old Town, Naujamiestis and the green Žaliakalnis district each offer a different atmosphere, from riverside cafés and street art to museums including the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art and the family-friendly Science Island. The Žalgiris Arena adds a strong basketball and events culture.

As a university city with Kaunas International Airport, growing business and logistics activity and a busy calendar of conferences and festivals, Kaunas serves both leisure and business travellers. Its food scene pairs Lithuanian classics like cepelinai with craft beer pubs, markets and modern Baltic dining.