It's Kaunastic! - Why you should visit this year's European Capital of Culture, Kaunas
Kaunas is the host of the 2022 European Capital of Culture programme, with different events in the Lithuanian city throughout the year. Spectacular water shows, city walks, visual arts programmes and outdoor events are on offer until 31 December, including themed weekends and lively weekdays, put on by the Kaunas 2022 team. We've compiled a far-from complete list of compelling reasons why you should buy your air ticket and visit Kaunas now!
Contemporary Exhibitions and Historical Curiosities from Lithuania's Past
The good news for art lovers is that Kaunas is full of surprises when it comes to museums, galleries, and even open-air exhibitions. You'll find a Yoko Ono installation at the Bank of Lithuania building. At the Meno Parkas Gallery, you can admire works by Marina Abramovic. At the Presidential Palace of the Republic of Lithuania, you'll get a glimpse of Lithuania's past at indoor and outdoor exhibitions. And that's not all, not by a long shot! Thanks to the European Capital of Culture programme, you'll come across mini-exhibitions during these months, not to mention plenty of street art coming at you at almost every corner!
Coffee in the Historic Quarter, Picnic by the River
Put on your hiking boots and start roaming the city! Once you've wandered the length of Kaunas's pedestrian streets, where a café or restaurant beckons with fine food and drink every few steps, head to the Old Town! For the ECoC year, a 'Kaunas 2022' stage was erected in the cosy main square, where mostly Lithuanian bands perform week after week and month after month. From here, it's only a few minutes' walk to the castle where the Kaunas Monster resides. A walk along the charming promenade will take you, in no time, to the confluence of the Nemunas and Nyeman rivers. Here, you can spend some active time playing volleyball, basketball, or ping-pong. Alternately, a pleasant picnic by the riverside may be a good choice.
Lookout points in different parts of the city
If you're curious to get a bird's eye view of Kaunas, you can admire the city from several viewpoints. We recommend the monumental Our Lord Jesus Christ's Resurrection Basilica, whose vast rooftop terrace is a great look-out point. Since the church is on one of the city's high points, a cogwheel train is available to take you up there. If you're in the old town, don't miss the Aleksatos Hill lookout, which you can reach by crossing the Vytauto Didžiojo Bridge.
Craft Beers, Cocktails, Techno Parties, Lively Nightlife
After a day of sightseeing, museum visits, and relaxing by the riverside, it's time to rest before heading out for the night with renewed energy! If you like beer, you can sample local specialities at the legendary blue house, Vingiu Dubingiu Aludé. There are also several jazz bars and electronic music or live music clubs to be found while you're out and about on the town.
