Jim's 4x Capital Fridays Vilnius, Trakai, Kaunas and Kernavė
Description
A historical small-group tour from Vilnius to Trakai, Kaunas & Kernavė. Each of these capitals, however brief (Trakai told to be less than a decade) has a story to tell - from the ancient hill fort of Kernavė to the interwar capital of Kaunas. Throughout this journey I will share the broad brush as well as pivotal moments which have shaped the beloved nation of Lithuania I now call home with my wife and son. I will also be playing songs, from eurovision to chants of the forest by the fire. After a drive through the UNESCO old town and central business district of Vilnius, we will stop in the Soviet neighbourhood of Karoliniškės for a coffee (included). Our next stop is Trakai and the beautiful island castle where you can try a traditional Kibinai pastry (included). Kaunas will be 2 hours either together or solo, as you wish - you can also join me for lunch. We will take 30 minutes at the ninth fort victims of fascism monument on the way back. Finally we have 60 mins in Kernavė!
Tour Options
Itinerary
Drive through the melting pot of Vilnius, first the UNESCO World-Heritage site Old Town and then the towering steel of the Central Business District.
Quick 10-minute coffee stop at Baltic Brew in the heart of the Karoliniškės Soviet blocks.
Drive to Trakai covering the medieval history of Lithuania, the Grand Duchy, Crusades and a Union with Poland.
Stop at the Hill of Angels, built in 2009 as a site of spirituality and devotion.
Explore the Karaim heritage in Trakai and option to see the castle island.
Enjoy 2 hours in Kaunas at your own pace. We will park just outside the castle and you will have the option to meet again for lunch with me after 1 hour or to simply rendezvous back at the vehicle. Recommendations made.
Short drive and stop at the Monument to Commemorate the Victims of Nazism. Brutalist style and unveiled in 1984.
Drive to Kernavė and teleport back to the prehistoric times when Lithuania was but dense forests, rivers and swamps.
Explore the hillforts of Kernavė UNESCO Archaeological site and the open air museum of medieval homesteads.
Drive to Kaunas, and fast forward to the 20th century as we head to the interwar capital.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(2)
When Jim shows you around it's not just sightseeing. He is your friend the moment you meet him and everything goes perfect. He explains the history and the story behind. This is a long tour, but so enjoyable that you don't want it to finish. Jim is friendly, sociable, and passionate about what he does. I am very grateful to him.
Absolutely amazing tour around Vilnius, Trakai and Kaunas with the lovely guidance of Jim. It’s a must-do in Lithuania. It was also a great opportunity to meet friendly people visiting Vilnius. Added to that, the stunning views, fascinating history, and relaxed atmosphere made the whole experience unforgettable. Highly recommended!
