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From Wikitravel

Kaunas [1], [2] is the second biggest city in Lithuania.

[edit] Understand

Kaunas is Lithuania's second city but is in no way a poor relation. For a time it acted as temporary capital and as such benefited from investment and the status.

A visit in February is not everyone's idea of peak holiday time but it may add to the city's appeal. Yes it will be -15 degrees C outside, and yes there was snow and ice and it takes 10 minutes to dress before venturing out and another 10 to undress when you go back inside but when else do most of us get to experience that? It's not like England where one snowflake brings the transport network to a halt. Don't forget the people of Kaunas are used to it and life goes on with great efficiency. Museums have cloakrooms, everywhere is well heated and draft proofed, supermarkets have lockers to leave your coats, hats, scarves, gloves, sledges and so on and nobody minds you sipping vodka from a 200 ml bottle to keep your insides warm. As well as the usual attractions this time of year allows you to go sledging (sledges from 3 LTL in supermarkets) or across the bridge to the park on an island in the river to build snowmen, have snowball fights and drag huge chunks of ice up to the bridge to send crashing onto the frozen river below. You will notice that some couples had attached padlocks to the bridge with their names scratched or painted on - a custom one may have observed in Riga. The gist is pretty clear and the bridge to the park is an ideal location to continue this eastern European (?) custom. There is a locksmith who sells padlocks in a courtyard off the northern side of Laisves Aleja towards the eastern end - reasonably priced too. Go for the ones with the longest hasp (loop) as the bars of the bridge are really thick. Failing that attach yours to one that is already there!

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

Kaunas can be reached with the low cost airline Ryanair[3] to the Kaunas international airport,[4], (IATA: KUN), which is located ~30 minutes drive from the downtown. Kaunas airport, according to announcement, made by Ryanair [5], has been chosen as it's first base in Central Europe from May 2010. Earlier were flights from Dublin, Birmingham, Frankfurt-Hahn, Bremen, Liverpool, London-Stansted and London-Luton to Kaunas. Also, were expected new flights from Brussels-Charleroi since 2nd March 2010 and from Bristol since 3rd May 2010.

Moreover, additional 9 flights from Kaunas to Barcelona-Girona, Berlin-Schoenefeld, Dusseldorf-Weeze, Edinburgh, London-Gatwick, Milan-Bergamo, Oslo-Rygge, Paris-Beauvais, and Tampere are established from May 2010.

To Kaunas there is also a flight via Riga with AirBaltic, the Latvian airline [6]. New modern terminal for passengers was opened in March 2008. There are some vendors in the terminal building, including restaurant, bars, and duty free shops, as well as car rentals.Travel agency, currency exchange, and ATM services are also available. Airport has 3 parking lots with ~1000 parking spaces offering short- and long-term parking. From the airport a bus #29 - found right outside - takes you into the center of Kaunas (tickets 2.0 LTL from the driver). Shuttle bus #120 goes by route: Kaunas Airport - Savanoriu Avenue - Kaunas castle bus stop. There are also two regular routes by shuttle bus from Kaunas airport to Vilnius and Klaipeda.

Vilnius airport [7] is just 100 km away from Kaunas. The Airlines that operate from Vilnius airport are Aer Lingus, AirBaltic, Czech Airlines, Estonian Air, Finnair, Lufthansa, Norwegian AirShuttle, Brussels Airlines Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and LOT.

[edit] By road

Kaunas is served by a number of major Baltic motorways. The international road Via Baltica (connecting Warsaw, to Tallinn) crosses Kaunas just after about 70 km (45 miles) from the Lithuanian-Poland border. It is the most important road connection between the Baltic states. There is 210 km (130 miles) motorway from westwern part of Lithuania, Klaipeda and Palanga (city by the Baltic sea), and connects Kaunas, and Vilnius in the east. Buses serve section Kaunas-Vilnius every 30 to 60 min. Another important highway (named A6) links Kaunas with Jonava, Ukmerge, Utena, and Daugavpils, in Latvia. The modern four-lane motorways and main roads are in a very good state. The speed-limit is 130 kph on the motorways (110 kph in winter), but just 100 kph on the Vilnius-Kaunas sector.

[edit] By train

There are many trains from Vilnius. If travelling from Klaipeda by train to Kaunas, you must make a stop at Kaišiadorys, and wait for another train running from Vilnius. Some trains are going from Vilnius to Šeštokai, and, Poland, through Kaunas. There is also an international route connecting Kaliningrad, Russia and Kharkiv, Ukraine, that crosses Kaunas. Czech made Double-deck electric trains, alongside with older ones, go from Vilnius to Kaunas, and vice versa. Recently renovated 1,3 km (0,8 miles) long Kaunas railway tunnel [8] built between 1859 and 1861 near Kaunas central railway station is worth attention for tourists.

[edit] By bus

There are some frequent bus routes that radiate out from Kaunas and serve other countries. These particularly go to Riga in Latvia, Tallinn in Estonia, Minsk in Belarus, Warsaw in Poland, and Saint Petersburg in the Russian Federation. Bus companies also serve other parts of Lithuania.

• Kautra [9] - one of the major bus companies in Lithuania, based in Kaunas and established in 1934. One may book Kautra' electronic tickets through internet [10].
• Ecolines [11]
• Toks [12]

[edit] By boat

Lithuania's ferry port is Klaipeda on the Baltic sea coast. From there one can rent a car or take a bus to get to Kaunas, which is about 200 km (130 miles) inland. There is a chance to come to Kaunas pier from Nida by boat (summer time only).

[edit] Get around

Kaunas has well developed public transport system. There are 16 trolleybus routes and 47 bus routes inside of the city. Buses and trolleybuses tickets can be bought at press kiosks and in the transport. Price for one journey is 1.8 LTL (0.52 EUR) or 2.0 LTL (0.56 EUR) if ticket is bought in the bus or trolleybus. You must validate your ticket on entry in one of the machines. The Kaunas Public Transport [13] site offers useful information and a downloadable map [14] of the bus and trolleybus routes. Since 2007 electronic monthly tickets are being introduced for public transport in Kaunas. Until 2010 regular paper tickets, which are valid for single journey in Kaunas public buses and trolleybuses, can be purchased from newspapers stands and public transport drivers. Each public transport stop in the downtown area is equipped with Kaunas public transport maps and scoreboards. Monthly tickets for buses are not valid for trolleybuses and conversely. Single journey (paper) tickets are valid for both transport - buses and trolleybuses.

[edit] By bus

The bus network covers the whole city and is the widest public transportation system in Kaunas.

[edit] By trolleybus

Kaunas trolleybuses service is very reliable. The fleet of trolleys' is relatively new, represented by Polish Solaris' and some of older Czech Skoda's.

[edit] By microbus

There are about 16 routes of private owned microbuses routes in Kaunas. Shuttle (microbuses) service charges 2.5 LTL (0.72 EUR) per journey. For journey one should pay in cash at the moment of boarding and travel till necessary, i.e. just say "stop, please".

[edit] By taxi

Taxi prices varies from 2 LTL (0.6 EUR) to 2.5 LTL (0.72 EUR) per kilometer. For travelling with taxi, it is advisable to order one by phone because halting a cab on the street is not a custom. In the evening and at night, the price will be higher. Reputable companies are:

• Žaibiškas greitis [15] - established in 1992 and owned largest taxi fleet in Kaunas.
• Smugis - tel. +370 37 333333.
• Einesa - tel. +370 37 331533.
• Greitasis taksi - tel. +370 37 234444.

[edit] By car

Renting a car for at least 24 hours in Kaunas is easy. The vehicles are provided with a full tank. The car must be returned with full tank, otherwise, 1 EUR per liter is charged. To rent a car without a driver a deposit must be paid. The speed limit in Kaunas is 50 km/h, except some bigger streets which have the speed limit of 60, 70 or even 80 km/h. There are some companies renting cars in Kaunas, including Fortuna [16], Avis [17], Hertz [18], Europcar [19], Budget [20] and more. All of these companies have offices at Kaunas airport.

[edit] By bike

There are more than 50 km (30 miles) of bicycle roads in Kaunas and the number of available roads is increasing each year. The Eurovelo international route goes through the city. Kaunas city bike routes chart is available here [21].

[edit][add listing] See

Kaunas has several districts and sites interesting for tourists. The Old Town is the area mostly built between XIV and XVII centuries, resembling buildings in Gothic, Renaissance, and, Baroque architecture. Other districts and places of interested are the compact New Town and scattered in different locations. A walking tour is the best way to see the Old Town of Kaunas. A lot of guided excursions are available at Kaunas region tourism information office [22].

[edit] Old Town

• Kaunas castle [23] - Papilio str. 17; is now reopened for the visitors. Kaunas castle was built in the middle of XIV century and is the oldest building in Kaunas. Nearby Kaunas castle a nice park is set at the confluence of the two largest rivers of Lithuania - Nemunas and Neris.

• The Kaunas City Hall [24]- Rotuses sq. 15, built in the middle of XVIth century, at the time when Kaunas was flourishing city of merchants, City hall is nice example of renaissance architecture in Kaunas. It is unofficially among ocals called "The white swan". In 1836 the City hall was reconstructed and the residence for Russian czars was made there. The Wedding Hall (marriage registration office) was opened in the ground and first floor of City hall in 1973. The cellars are used by a Kaunas Ceramics museum. The museum collection consists of various archaeological findings from the Old Town and surroundings of Kaunas. The collection contains craftsmen-made crockery, tile stove ornaments as well as roof tiles of impressive size. The exposition also reflects the lifestyle of the townsmen of the time. Museum is open Tu-Su 11AM-5PM.

• The City Hall square - the main square of Old Town is the place for Kaunas city hall and the surrounding buildings with lots of restaurants, bars, coffee-houses, museums, art galleries, and, hotels nearby.

• Maironis Museum of Lithuania Literature[25] - Rotuses sq.13; museum located in XVIIIth century palace, has been arranged as a memorial home of Lithuanian poet Maironis. The museum houses huge collection of books, manuscripts, art works, and memorial items. Working hours: Tu-Sat 9AM-5PM. Tickets 4 Lt (1,2 EUR).

• Kaunas cathedral - Vilniaus str.1; [26] being 84 m long and 34 m wide is the largest Gothic church in Lithuania. It was first mentioned in writing sources in 1413.

• Kaunas Medicine and Pharmacy Museum[27] - Rotuses sq. 28. Houses a huge collection of skulls, herbs, medicine articles, and, other stuff of older times. Open 10AM-7PM daily. Mon.Closed.

• Vytautas' church [28] - Aleksoto str.3; officially named The Church of Taking Holy Virgin Mary into the Heaven church is the oldest one in Kaunas and is one of the first Gothic brick buildings built in 1400 in Kaunas on the bank of Nemunas. The church belonged to Franciscan monks. During the Napoleonic Wars it was turned into a war ammunition warehouse.

• Evangelic Luteran church - small church located on the right bank of Nemunas river in the Old Town is in Baroque and Romanticism styles. The church was built in 1682 - 1683.

• St. Gertrude church - built in the late XVth century. It is a small sacral building in the outskirts of the Old Town, a national architectural monument of Gothic style.

• Church of Holy Trinity - the Bernardine convent's church was built in 1624-1634. It is of late renassance style with a gothic tradition. At the moment, it is used for needs of Kaunas seminary.

• St. George church and Bernardine Monastery - located near Kaunas castle, church's Gothic walls have survived despite frequent fires. The monastery is a Gothic monument with unique façades. The interior features a number of valuable Renaissance and Gothic elements. Complex is inder renovation at the moment.

• Perkunas' house - one of the most beautiful secular so called "flaming" Gothic building (House of Thunder) in Lithuania. At the moment, a museum of famous Lithuanian and Polich poet Adomas Mickevicius (Adam Mickewicz) is opened inside.

• St. Michael Church and Benedictine Convent - the fine example of 15th century Gothic sacral building that is only with asymmetric layout in Lithuania. The church and convent complex is on Benediktiniu str. 8 to the north-east from the central part of Kaunas Old town. It is reachable on foot by crossing busy Saukliu str. from Kaunas castle.

• Jewellery (gemmology) Museum [29] - Zamenhofo str./Kurpių str. 13, located between Nemunas river and the main Vilniaus street of the Old Town, small private museum attracts with rare minerals, preciuos stones exposition from different locations of the world.

• Historical Presidential palace - Vilniaus str. 33, Former Palace houses objects, which relate to presidential institution of the First Republic (1918–1940). Representational portraits, art works from the interiors of Presidential Palace are exhibited here, also – the presents received by the president, authentic furniture. Working hours: Tu–Su 11AM–5PM. Tickets 3 lt (around 1 EUR).

[edit] Central Kaunas

Kaunas downtown area is compact so everyone is able to stroll around on foot and take some photos. Be prepared for great variety of sculptuary on display in the public areas of Kaunas.

• Laisvės Alėja - Kaunas' most famous walking street is fully pedestrianised and runs from the Old Town for a distance of alomost 2 km to the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Two lines of Linden trees, seating and flower beds run the length of the avenue. There is a good assortment of shops, banks, supermarkets, restaurants, a cinema, casinos, nightclubs, museums, tourist information office, places to stay and a post office. It would be possible to spend your entire stay on Laisves Aleja and not get bored. It is kept clean and snow free (in the winter) with great efficiency and is a great place to spend time. In the late morning and afternoon various stalls selling foods, souvenirs hats etc. appear and are worth a look. The monument "Field of victims" in Laisves aleja near the garden of the Musical theatre was unveiled in 2002. It was dedicateg to Romas Kalanta, who self-immolated himself protesting the Soviet oppresion in 1972.

• Vytautas' Monument - located on Laisvės alėja, near Kaunas city municipality. The monument to Vytauas the Great - the most famous ruler of medieval Lithuanian was erected in 1930. It was demolished by the Soviets and then re-erected in 1990.

• Synagogue - Ozeskienes str. 13. Kaunas Choral Synagogue, located near the western end of Laisvės aleja, is one of two remaining Jewish houses of prayer in Lihuania. It was built in 1872 in reformist decorative style of synagogues of that time. The facade of the synagogue is reminiscent of a neobaroque church. It's dome was rebuilt some years ago.

• Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum [30] - Laisves Aleja, 106. Houses a collection of thousands of stuffed and preserved animals. In winter make use of the cloakroom to the left of the main hall on the ground floor as the museum is well heated. Arranged over several floors the collection ranges from full grown giraffes to butterflies and is well worth an hour or two of your time. Open 11AM-7PM daily. Mon. closed.

• Catacombs - enter the Church of St. Michael the Archangel (the beautiful domed building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja) sand the entrance to the catacombs (katakombos) is on your right. Ask at the sacristy (right of the main altar) and they will let you in for free. You descend a spiral staircase into total darkness then begin a journey using your remaining senses which takes you through an underground assault course. When you make it through you ascend a similar spiral staircase on the opposite side of the church entrance. Not for the fainthearted, small children or anyone with difficulty moving around. They appreciate a donation to the church afterwards in one of the boxes scattered around.

• Vytautas the Great War Museum - K. Donelaicio str. 64. A history of Kaunas from prehistoric times to the present day. It houses an immense collection of weapons through the ages. The highlight is the complete, but tragic, remains of the plane Lituanica in which S. Darius and S. Girenas crossed the atlantic in 1933 (see the 10 Lita note). Open Tu-Su 11AM-5:30PM. Admission - adult 2 LTL, child 1 LTL. In front of Vytautas the Great museum a square with statues of Lithuanian national renaissance figures and ad the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal flame are located. It was the main square where Lithuanian national holidays were celebrated during the period when Kaunas had been the Temporary capital of Lithuania.

• Carillion - Kaunas 35 bell Carillon in the tower of Vytautas the Great War Museum was completed in Belgium in 1935. The bell music from the tower started to ring in 1937. Kaunas carillon was restored by Royal Eijsbouts bell foundry in Netherlands in 2006. After the restoration, Kaunas carillon has 49 bells and new keyboard. Everyday the Lithuanian folk melody of wartime is being played automatically in the middle of the day.

When you finish Ciau Pizza is on the corner ahead and to your right. Tasty and welcoming but don't expect lightning fast service - a relaxed pace and a chance to watch the world go by while your food is cooked.

• The Bank of Lithuania - Maironio str.25; the branch of Lithuania National bank in Kaunas. It was built in 1928 as new Central Bank building. There is a small exhibition of lithuanian banknotes and coins of the First Republic time inside. Very impressive architecture of neoclassicism style. One may purchase Lithuanian collector coins there.

• M. K. Čiurlionis National Art Museum - V. Putvinskio str. 55. Museum [31] collects, keeps, investigates and popularizes Lithuanian most famuous artist and composer's M. K. Čiurlionis' (1875–1911) creative works, cultural heritage of Lithuania and the world. Some art critics call M. K. Ciurlionis the pioneer of abstract art. His creations combine symbolism, secessio, abstractionsism and romanticism. Working hours: October – May: Tu – Su 11AM–5PM. June – September: Tu–Su 10AM–5PM. Tickets: 6 LTL (1,7 EUR) for adults, 3 LTL (0,9 EUR) for pupils.

• Devils' museum,[32]. Contains the Lithuanian artist' A. Zmuidzinavicius collection of sculptures and carvings of devils, and a unique collection of devils from the whole world. Putvinskio 64 Tel: + 370 37 221 587' Open Tu-Su 11AM-6PM.

• Kaunas picture gallery - K. Donelaicio str.16. Gallery houses XXth century Lithuanian and Lithuanian émigrés art, and a collection of North American Indian art donated by Juozas Kaributas (USA). There is also Jurgis Mačiūnas FLUXUS cabinet and Art Collection of Algimantas Miskinis. Open Tu-Su 11AM-5PM. Ticket price 4 LTL (1,2 EUR).

• Funicular railways - There are two still functioning funiculars in Kaunas. The Žaliakalnis Funicular Railway (V. Putvinskio street) is an electrically operated funicular railway. The oldest funicular in Lithuania and one of the oldest in Europe. It was constructed by AEG and began operating on 5 August 1931. The funicular has wood panelled coachwork and is serviced by an English speaking operator in uniform. It climbs the 75 m up from behind the Vytautas the Great War Museum to the Church of the Resurrection for some of the best views in Kaunas. The ticket costs 0.5 LTL. Another funicular, built in 1935, near Aleksotas (Vytautas) bridge, that connects Aleksotas district with the Old Town, takes people up to Aleksotas hill. From here is probably the best view of Kaunas downtown.

• The Park (Nemunos salos parkas), accessed across a footbridge at the southern end of S. Daukanto pedestrian street. A huge open space minutes from the bustle of Laisvės Alėja. A great place to sledge when there is snow and of course the place to leave your padlocks. The largest indoor sport arena in the Baltic states on that island is now being built. Kaunas Arena will be used to host sports games as well as concerts. It is expected to be open in October 2010.

• Kaunas M. Žilinskas picture gallery[33] - Nepriklausomybes sq.12; Contemporay building at the eastern end of Laisves Aleja, near the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Gallery houses collection of fine and applied art from around the globe. There are Egyptian amulets, Roman glassware, Ming vases, and more inside gallery donated by collector M. Zilinskas. Right outside the gallery stands a statue of naked man - a place for youth meetings and variuos artistic performances. Open June-September Tu-Su 10AM-5PM, October-May 11AM-5PM. Ticket price 6 LTL (1,8 EUR).

• The Mosque - Totoriu str.3. The only in Lithuania Eastern style building and mosque of bricks located in the corner of the park in Kaunas downtown. It was built in 1930, in commemoration of Vytautas the Great 500th anniversary of his death.

[edit] Other Sights

• Church of the Resurrection, follow V. Putvinskio street from the Devil Museum or walk up behind the War Museum and turn right to find the Žaliakalnis Funicular Railway. This takes you up to the Church of the Resurrection. The door on the right hand side of the church (as you face it) takes you in and from 12PM you can climb the stairs (3 LTL/1 EUR) or take the lift (5 LTL/1,5 EUR) to the terrace at the top. Spectacular views of Kaunas and beyond. The church itself is also open to visitors. If you arrive too early and the terrace is not open then carry on north-west along Žemaičiu gatvě and at the junction you'll find an IKI supermarket that has a coffee bar/restaurant upstairs.

• The House of Sugihara [34]- Vaizganto str. 30. The memorial exhibition located in quiet residential district of Zaliakalnis is functioning in the building where before World War II, The Japanese consulate's vicecouncilor Chiune Sugihara resided. In 1940 he handed out Japanese transit visas to Jews from Lithuania, Poland and other countries. It was saved about 6000 people from Holocaust.

• Ažuolynas Park - named after the old Oak-wood tree park, it is in Žaliakalnis residential district easily reachable from the downtown area by some staircases or buses #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaičio str.) or #38,43 (from Vytauto av.). The park is one of the most popular places among locals to stroll and athletes to run. At the western part of the Ažuolynas park, the monument to famous lithuanian aviators S. Darius and S. Girenas stands; at eastern part of the park, Kaunas Zoo entrance is set.

• Lithuanian Zoo Park [35] - the only zoo garden in Lithuania was established in a park, in which grow hundred year old oaks near the city center in 1938. It is made up of 11 sections and offers 6 classes of animals. Children can ride a pony or donkey in the zoo. Working hours 9AM-7PM. Tickets: May-October 11 LTL (3,2 EUR) for adults & 8 LTL (2,4 EUR) for pupils, November-April 7 LTL (2 EUR) for adults & 5 LTL (1,45 EUR) for pupils.

• Lithuania's Museum of Aviation [36]- Veiveriu str.132. Museum is in Aleksotas district, at the former S. Darius and S. Girėnas international airport of Kaunas. It is the oldest still functioning for sports and rescue reasons airport in Lithuania, established in 1915. The exposition explores the development of Lithuanian aviation, some flying apparatus, and the aviation signs of various countries. Visitor may test a real aviaton simulator. Working hours: Tu-Sat 9AM-5PM. Tickets - 4 Lt (1,2 EUR), with guided excursion - 10 Lt (2,7 EUR). Museum is reachable from the city central bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.

• Kaunas Botanical Garden [37]- one of the most beautiful sites of nature in Kaunas comprises the area of 62.5 hectares with greenhouses founded in 1923.

• Napoleon's hill - actually Jiesia river hill, located on the left bank of the Nemunas river, between the Panemune district and Railway bridge. Since the early XIXth century it has been nicknamed Napoleon's hill. It is believed that from this hill in June 1812 Napoleon I of France watched his army crossing the Nemunas. The hill is accessable from Kaunas castle by bus #25 or taxi.

• Kaunas fortress [38] - built between 1882 and 1915, it was designated a "first-class" fortress in Russian Empire in 1887. The fortress was battle-tested in 1915 when Germany attacked the Russian Empire, and withstood eleven days of assault before capture. The Ninth Fort of the Fortress houses a museum and memorial [39] devoted to the victims of World War II mass executions.

• Pažaislis monastery and church [40]- form the largest monastery and curch complex in Lithuania, and is one of the most magnificent examples of Italian baroque architecture in Eastern Europe. Pažaislis camaldolese monastery located on the bank of Kaunas Reservoir [41] is open Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sat 10AM-4PM. Tickets: 5 LTL (1,45 EUR) for adults, 2 LTL (0,6 EUR) for pupils. Kaunas Reservoir is the largest Lithuanian artificial lake, created in 1959 by damming the Nemunas river near Kaunas and Rumšiškės. Kaunas Reservoir supports the operations of the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant. The reservoir also supports the operations of large Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant [42], which is situated near confluence of Kaunas Reservoir with small Strėva river, at distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.

[edit][add listing] Do

Kaunas is home to a variety of festivals, including famous Pažaislis Music festival [43], Kaunas Jazz [44] festival and International Modern Dance Festival [45]. There are some annual events in Kaunas, for instance, Kaziukas Fair (at the beginning of March), Days of Kaunas city (in the middle of May), International Bike Show Millenium [46] (in middle of June) or traditional folk music competition Play, Jurgelis (in November).

[edit] Theatres

Kaunas has many theatres showing plays of different kinds:

• Kauno Musical theatre [47] – Laisves aleja 91; variety of classical opera and operetta plays in original language. Everyone should purchase tickets in advance. Prices vary from 15 LTL (4,4 EUR) to 100 LTL (29 EUR).

• Kaunas State Drama theatre – Laisvės alėja, 71; shows drama performances.

• Kaunas Pantomime theatre [48] - Kovo 11 str. 26; the only theatre in Lithuania of that kind.

• Kaunas Chamber theater [49] – Kestucio str. 74A. Located near Musical theatre, it is small, but yet well known drama theatre.

• Kaunas Modern dance theatre[50] – M. Dauksos str. 30A. Locate in Old Town. Contemporary art of dance.

• Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra [51] – L. Sapiegos str. 5; Orchestra plays concerts at Kaunas Philharmonic which is set at the former Lithuanian Parliament House of neoclassical style.

• Vytautas Magnus University Grand Hall - S. Daukanto str.28. Located near the Laisves aleja and Vienybes sq. in the center of the city is home for variuos events.

• Kaunas Puppet theater – Laisves aleja, 87A. Cosy theatre, plays for childern. Located near Musical theatre.

[edit] Cinemas

There are two multiplex cinema complexes in Kaunas. Both multiplexes - Cinamon and Forum cinemas are located in shopping centers "Mega" and "Akropolis", respectively. Other option is the oldest movie theatre in Lithuania named Romuva (at Laisves aleja, 54) and available on rare events, such as Kaunas International film festival [52]only.

[edit] Sports

Kaunas‘ sports and leisure centres are scattered throughout Kaunas offering swimming pools, sports courts, fields and exercise equipment.

• Dariaus ir Girėno sports complex, Perkuno str. 5, tel.: 370 37 777 589. Home of FBK Kaunas F.C. [53] and the only large athletics stadium in Lithuania. FBK Kaunas is the most successful football club having won 8 Lithuanian national football championships, 3 Lithuanian Football Cup titles after the restoration independence of Lithuania in 1990. Dariaus and Girėno stadium, located near the Ažuolynas park, is also used as IAAF Accredited Training Centre [mailto: llaf2009@gmail.com] in Kaunas [54]. Stadium capacity is up to 10,000 seats. Sports complex also includes adjacent Kaunas Sports Hall - the largest arena for sports and events of Kaunas at the time of 2009. It is the first arena built in 1939 specially for basketball in Europe. Capacity is 5,000. Nearby is situated the only in Lithuania higher institution of physical education - Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education. Sports complex is accessible by from city center by bus #6,10,21,37 (from K. Donelaicio str.) or #38,43 (from Vytauto av.) or by taxi (be aware, there is a shortage of parking lots near the Dariaus ir Girėno sports center).

• Ąžuolynas, Sporto str. 3, tel.:+370 37 301 010; ([55]), [56]. Neighbouring to Dariaus ir Girėno sports center, there is a privately owned „Ąžuolynas“ sport center with 8 tennis courts, SPA procedures [57] and a gym available to the public.

• Elnias golf club [58] - set at Didziosios Lapes settlement, the first golf club in Lithuania, opened in 2000, is famous not only as sports activity, but also as a place where hundreds of deers are kept. Golf club is reachable if going by regional route #232 on the left side of Neris river from Kaunas' Vilijampole district to Zeimiai.

• Kaunas air club [59] - flights with small planes or gliders, parachute jumping. Available at small Kaunas Darius and Girenas airport, accesible from the city central bus or railway station by taxi, bus #6 or minibus #51, 68, 105.

• Linija [60] - Taikos av. 44A; One of the oldest wellness center in Kaunas offers swimming zone with pools and saunas, 3 floors of gyms, as well as 2 halls of group exercises. Additional services are available. Workin hours: Mo-Fr 7 AM-10 PM, Sa-Su 9 AM - 9 PM.

• Notas tennis club [61] - Veiveriu str. 151; Situated in Aleksotas, near Darius and Girenas airport, tennis club tenders 6 tennis courts.

• Amazon gym [62] - Laisves aleja, 51A (4th floor, in the courtyard). Working hours: Mo-Fr 8.30 AM - 8/9 PM; Sa-Su 11 AM- 3/3.30 PM.

[edit] Beaches

There are some beaches on the banks of Nemunas river, shores of Lampedziai lake and Kaunas Reservoir. Beaches are open on summer time.

• Panemunes Park Beach is in the loop of Nemunas river on the shore of the brilliant Panemune Park. Beach is easily reachable on foot if start from shopping center „Molas“ (K. Barsausko str.), you shoud go by A. ir J. Gravrogku str. and then by pedestrian bridge across Nemunas river or by caro are taxi from city center. It‘s a popular place to visit.

• Lampedžiai Lake Beach is in the western part of Kaunas. It is a small lake surrounded by Lampedziai park that attract a lot of locals in summer time. Beach is reachable by car, taxi, or buses #48 (from Kaunas castle bus stop) or #9 (goes from Silainiai residential district).

• Kaunas Reservoir Beach is situated on the shore of Pažaislis park near Pažaislis church and monastery ensemble. The water is almost the purest of all Kaunas beaches. Beach is reachable by car, taxi, or trolleybuses #9 or 12 (summer time only). Kaunas Reservoir is the largest Lithuanian artificial lake, created in 1959 by damming the Nemunas river near Kaunas and Rumsiskės. The reservoir supports the operations of the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant. The reservoir also supports the operations of Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant, which is situated near confluence of Reservoir with small Strėva river, at distance of about 25 kilometers east from Kaunas.

[edit] Learn

Kaunas is known as a city of students. Some of Kaunas' universities, listed below, attract students from other countries.

• Vytautas Magnus University. Founded in 1922 as a national university, it is named after Vytautas the Great, the most famous XVth century Lithuanian ruler. University is one of the leading universities of Lithuania [63] - K. Donelaičio str. 58.
• Kaunas University of Technology - the largest technical university in the Baltic States [64]- K. Donelaičio str. 73. (central administration).
• Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education – the only institution of tertiary physical education in Lithuania [65] - Sporto str. 6.
• Kaunas University of Medicine [66] - A. Mickeviciaus str. 9.
• Kaunas Art Institute [67] - Muitines str. 4.
• University of Management and Economics [68] - E. Ozeskienes str. 18.

[edit][add listing] Buy

• The most well known grocery stores are - Maxima, IKI, Rimi, Norfa, Silas; Senukai (household goods).
• Hand made bone china table sets, cups, mugs and ther souvenirs. Available at Akropolis shopping mall (or directly from producer JSC Jiesia at Chemijos str. 29, at the eastern part of Kaunas).
• Vodka (Degtiné) - a whole range of flavoured vodkas starting at 5 LTL for 200 ml. Try cherry, cranberry, lemon, blackcurrant, raspberry and of course classic. The pepper was an acquired taste - but got easier the more you drank.
• Flax products (linas) - high quality and old traditions.
• Mead - orginal national beverage with honey flavour and taste.
• Cottage cheese - lot's of variations.
• Amber, so called "Lithuanian gold", decorations.
• Do not forget to visit the outdoor markets.

[edit][add listing] Buy

Within Kaunas there are several malls which are usually open from 8AM until 12PM. Tipically most shopping centers have not only dozens or more stores, but also a food court, restaurants, multiplexes, bowling alleys and even may have skating rink.

• Mega [69]- a huge shopping complex just outside the city centre with shops, multiscreen cinema, restaurants and a spectacular aquarium in the main entrance stocked with tropical fish including sharks. Stairs and an escalator take you up beside it for a better view. You can even watch them feed the fish (twice a day in the week, once at weekends). Served by bus #38 and #21 from the city centre (journey time about 20 minutes).

• Akropolis [70]- shopping mall built in 2007 and located in a 4-storey building in the centre of the city. There are lots of retailers, restaurants and cafés, entertainment providers. The shopping centre also comes with an ice skating arena surrounded by a food court, a bowling alley and a cinema.

• Urmas [71]- “Urmas” shopping area located at the eastern part of the city, comprises of more than 65000 m², and, is equipped with specialized meat, fruit & vegetable and fish markets. The business area is divided into separate units: Yellow, Green, Grey, Western and Eastern galleries and the Red passage. “Urmas“ center features a 2.500 parking lot which surrounds all galleries. “Urmas” shopping area is reachable from the city center by taxi, minibus #99 or troleybusses #15,16.

• Molas[72] - K. Baršausko str. 66A; around 50 variuos shops, some restaurants, pizzerias, branches of banks, and a bowling alley.

[edit][add listing] Eat

While in Lithuania, one should try these national dishes: Cepelinai(didžkukuliai) su spirgučiais - potato balls with meat(~11 LTL/3,2 EUR); Vėdarai(~10 LTL/3 EUR); Plokštainis - meal of potatoes(~8-12LTL/2,3-4 EUR); Bulviniai blynai(grated potato pancakes) with different sauces(~8-11 LTL); Virtinukai - curd patties(~10 LTL); Of course, Kaunas' restaurants, cafes offer European, Oriental, French and other cuisines.

• Bernelių Užeiga [73] - M. Valančiaus str. 9, also at K. Donelaičio str. 11, and Akropolis shopping mall. Tasty traditional Lithuanian dishes, soup in bowls made of bread and home brewed beer. Cosy and atmospheric and very convenient if you are in the Old Town as it is just a minute from the tourist information center.

• Alkava [74] - S. Daukanto str. 23; A. Mickeviciaus str.40; Varniu str. 24; Savanoriu av.6 and more locations at shopping malls. Wonderful confectioneries with wide arrangement of patisserie and coffee.

[edit] Budget

• Sushi express [75] - Laisves aleja, 12A. Japanese fast food restaurant offers more than 30 sushi, maki, sashimi dishes, vegetarians as well.

• Crazy house [76] - Vilniaus str. 16 (at the cellar); Not very expensive, but lusciuos. Working hours: Mo-Th 11 AM-12PM; Fr-Sa 11AM-2AM.

• Arena Pizza - Laisves aleja, 57 and Savanoriu av. 363, [77]. Offers a huge range of pizzas and side dishes at good prices and is very centrally located.

• Čili Kaimas - at Mega shopping center. Traditional Lithuanian food in a country themed surrounding; including live chickens in glass cabinets - great for kids.

• Viva blynai - Laisves aleja, 53. Tasty pancakes and dumplings.

• Ciau - K. Donelaičio str. 66; Closest eating place to the Vytautas the Great War Museum (see above) - tasty, warm, good value but a little slow.

• McDonald's - Savanoriu av. 321A. American fast food.

• KFC and *Pizza Hut - at Akropolis shopping mall.

• Čili Pica [78]. One at Laisvės Aleja 76 - good value, tasty and comfortable. Also at Mega shopping center.

[edit] Mid-range

• Miesto sodas [79] - Laisves aleja, 93. Very good restaurant offering European quisine with adjacent night club "Siena".

• Bella Toscana - S. Daukanto str.14, Vilniaus str.74. Not only cup of nice latte.

• Pizza Jazz [80] - Laisves aleja, 68; Laisves Aleja, 106 and others. Great pizzas and other dishes and good beer in very comfortable surroundings.

• Milano - A. Mickeviciaus, 19. Quality Italian pizzeria.

• Zalias Ratas - Laisvės aleja, 36b; behind tourist information center. A traditional country inn recreated in the city. Roaring fire, costumed waitresses, and tasty traditional Lithuanian food make this a great place to visit.

• Yakata [81] - M. Valanciaus str. 14. Opened in 2003 Japanese restaurant also offers vegetarian dishes and European quisine.

• AJ šokoladas - Rotuses sq. 26. Chocolate restaurant offers marvelous snacks, nice coffee, and a beautiful atmosphere in the heart of Old Town of Kaunas near City Hall square.

[edit] Splurge

• Bokstas [82]- Kestucio str. 86; located near Musical Theatre and former tower of the City Wall. One of the best recently opened restaurants in Kaunas. European cuisine.

• Carlstonas [83] - Kestucio str. 93; in front of Musical Theatre is set another restaurant with European, Italian and Spanich cuisine.

• Gralis [84]- Trumpoji str. 10; restaurant is located near Old Town, just get about 300 metres up the hill from Benediktiniu str. and turn left on Trumpoji stret. There are 4 banqueting halls inside on 2 floors. Luxury European cuisine, notably Italian. There is also a small guesthouse alongside.

• Sadute [85] - Rotuses sq. 4. Located in the very heart of Kaunas Old Town, restauraunt "Sadute" is known for groovy interior but also splendid service and clients' confidentiality.

• Pompėja [86] V. Putvinskio str. 38; named after Roman ruined city of Pompeii, restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine for formal business lunch or for romantic dinner at the very heart of Kaunas' downtown.

[edit][add listing] Drink

• Beer (Alus) - Utenos, Švyturys and Horn are to be recommended - expect to pay around 5 LTL per 0.5l in tourist bars and restaurants (Around 2 LTL in local bars e.g. Geru Alu Gerti Gera - has a red awning outisde and is situated on Birštono gatve. Worth a vist just to see the wild boar skin and wild boar head on the walls).

• Avilys [87] - Vilniaus str. 34. A great place to get a beer - all home brewed - but does not allow children in.

• Fortas - K. Donelaicio str. 65. Irish pub. Working hours: Mo-Fr 11 AM- 4 PM; other days 11 AM- 12 PM.

• Stumbras museum - K. Bugos str. 7; the largest producer of strong drinks in Lithuania Stumbras (Wisent) at the end of 2009 have opened a museum at the premise of the factory that introduces company's history and development of consumption in Lithuania. Only pre-arranged guided tours are available, please call +370 686 94388 to register. Guided tours in English, Russian and Lithuanian are available. Groups from 5 to 23 people are accepted. Visitors must be older than 18 years. Working hours: Mo-Fr 12 AM- 4 PM.

• Liberty pub [88] - V. Putvinskio, str.48. Irish style pub with rock and acoustic music. Working hours: Fr-Sa 11 AM-3 AM; other days: 11 AM - 12 PM.

• Barcode - Gedimino str.30/23; set near eastern end of Laisves aleja, bar offers music and more than 30 cocktail types. Working hours: Th-Sa 8 PM-5 AM. Admission for free but „face control“ exists.

[edit] Nightclubs

• Latino [89] - Vilniaus str. 22. Latino music nightclub open to all who can get past "face control". There are 3 halls for dancing inside. Working hours: F-Sa 8PM– 4 AM.

• Siena[90] - Laisvės alėja 93, Nightclub „Siena“ is in the very heart of Kaunas city center and offers dance, disco, retro music. There is a popular restaurant „Miesto sodas“ on the first floor. Working hours: Th-Sa 9 PM - 4 AM.

• Dzem'pub [91] - Laisvės aleja, 59. 5th floor. Great for lovers of live alternative and rock music.

• Exit [92] - Maironio str. 19. The best nightclub in Lithuania with 5 bars. Dance music for up to 1500 visitors. Working hours: Saturday only 10PM - 6 AM.

• Amerika pirtyje [93] - Vytauto av. 71. Nightclub offers dance and pop music is popular among students, reasonably priced. In the port area, plays middle of the road pop and disco; 5 halls overall.

• Extaze [94] - Savanoriu av. 64, Dance, live music.

• Nautilus [95] - Savanoriu av. 124; quality events on 2 flors.

• Combo [96]- Raudondvario str. 107. Situated near the shore of Nemunas river at the former Kaunas pier, nightclub is home for pop music, parties of 80`s, 90`s hits. Spectacular sound and images inside. Working hours: F-Sa 6PM– 3 AM.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

The number of places to stay in Kaunas grows every year. Also the choise of distinct types of accommodation increases as well. Despite it, booking in advance in summer time is recommended. There are some more other choises of staying, e.i. - motels, guesthouses, small hotels, that are not listed below.

[edit] Camping

• Kaunas City Camping - Jonavos str. 51A, tel.: +370 618 09 407; Kaunas camping is located just off the Vilnius-Klaipėda motorway north of the Kaunas downtown on the right bank of the Neris river. Kaunas camping offers places for 50 motor homes and an area to pitch tents. Electricity, washing facilities are available. Kaunas Old town is reachable from camping by bus #20. Prices: tents 15 LTL (4,4 EUR) /person, vehicles 34 LTL (10 EUR) /person, double chalets 100 LTL (29 EUR).

[edit] Budget

• Hostel 10, Neries krantine str. 16, tel/fax.: +370 37 30 22 18 fax.: +370 37 30 22 19 [mailto: info@hostel10.lt] [97]. There are 116 beds: 14 eight-seater and 1 four-seater rooms. Breakfast (extra charge). Prices: bed – €10;

• Apple Economy Hotel, M. Valančiaus str.19, tel./fax: +370 (37) 321 404; [mailto: info@applehotel.lt] [98]. Hotel is in Kaunas Old Town area and has 14 double rooms. Breakfast is not included in room price. Prices: bed – €40.

• Metropolis Hotel, S. Daukanto str. 21, tel.: +370 37 20 59 92; fax: +370 37 20 62 69 [mailto: metropolis@greenhillhotel.lt] [99]. The location of the oldest city's hotel is in the very heart of the downtown of Kaunas. Buffet breakfast is served. 74 rooms. Prices start from €32.

• Kaunas Archdiocese' Guesthouse, Rotuses sq.21; tel.:+370 37 322 597; fax.:+370 37 320 090 [mailto: sveciunamai@kn.lcn.lt] [100] ideally situated at the heart of the Old Town, the guesthouse offers 21 clean and modern room with Internet access. Prices from €23.

[edit] Mid-range

• Babilonas Hotel, Raseinių str. 25, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37 20 25 45; fax.: +370 37 20 91 56; [mailto: babilonas@hotel.lt] [101] Hotel is in a quiet district of Kaunas, named Žaliakalnis. Hotel offers 10 modern arranged rooms. Prices from €49.

• Kunigaiksciu Mene Hotel, M. Daukšos str. 28; tel.+ 370 37 320800; fax: +370) (37) 320872; [mailto: mene@takas.lt] [102] Three-star hotel is in the city of Kaunas, close to the historic centre and its 13th century castle. The hotel consists of 8 single and double rooms. Prices from €58.

• Hotel Magnus, Vytauto str. 24, tel.: +370 37 340 000; fax.: +370 37 240 804; [mailto: info@magnushotel.lt] [103] A new 3-star hotel in the centre of Kaunas, near recently renovated Central railway station of Kaunas. 82 rooms. Hotel has parking space for 30 cars and at least 3 buses. Prices from €70.

• Pažaislis park Hotel, T.Masiulio str. 18E, tel.: +370 614 63664; fax.: +370 37 351554; [mailto: pphotel@hotmail.com] [104] Hotel is in the service and entertainment park, Pažaislis Park, consisting of the Svarstyklės European and Chinese restaurant. 10 rooms. The prices start from 58 EUR per night.

• Alanta Hotel, Alantos str. 33; tel.+ 370 37 731 142; fax: 370 37 733 871; [mailto: hotel@alanta.lt] [105] Three-star hotel was opened in 1997 in quiet area of Žaliakalnis district, 2 km from the city centre.8 rooms. Prices from €52.

• Centre Hotel Nuova, Savanoriu Avenue 66/ Zemaiciu str.31; tel./fax: +370 37 321 418 [mailto: info@centrehotel.lt] [106] It is a new three-star hotel situated in the very heart of Kaunas city. Located in the quiet surroundings on the green slope of Žaliakalnis hill the hotel yet is very close to the city’s main artery — Savanoriu Avenue. 28 rooms. Prices from €45.

• Nakties Magija Hotel - Skroblu str. 3, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37 79 79 23; fax.: +370 37 79 58 32; [mailto: naktiesmagija@gmail.com] [107] Hotel is in Žaliakalnis district, near Azuolynas park. It offers 10 modern rooms. Prices are from €63.

[edit] Splurge

• Perkūno Namai Hotel, Perkuno av. 61, Kaunas; tel.: +370 37) 320 230; fax.: +370 37 323 678; [mailto: hotel@perkuno-namai.lt] [108] The hotel is the first private hotel in Kaunas. It is in a residential district named Žaliakalnis adjacent to the old oak forest. Hotel offers 29 modern rooms. Prices start from €64.

• Kaunas Hotel, Laisves Avenue 79, tel: +370 37 750850, fax +370 37 750851 [109]. It offers comfortable rooms with views directly onto the avenue, has an elevator and provides a sumptuous breakfast in its cellar restaurant for the more discerning traveller. 85 rooms. Prices from €74.

• Europa Royale Kaunas Hotel, Misko str. 11, tel.: 370 37 407 500; fax.: +370 37 407 501; [mailto: kaunas@europaroyale.com] [110] A very fresh 4 star hotel of 91 spacious rooms is situated in the centre of the city and near the shopping mall with lots of shops and restaurants. Free parking lot for cars and busses (60 parking spaces) in the back yard of the hotel and another one in front of the hotel . Prices start from €75 per night.

• Best Western Santaka Hotel, J. Gruodžio st.. 21, tel.: .+ 370 37 302 702; fax.: +370 37 302 700; [mailto: neris.sales@revalhotels.com] [111] Hotel is in the heart of Kaunas center, and, offers 92 stylish and well-equipped rooms with air conditioning systems. In the Hotel’s enclosed back yard there is a free parking lot and parages. Prices start from €105.

• Daniela Hotel, A. Mickevičiaus str. 28, tel.: .+370 37 321 505,; fax.: +370 37 321 632; [mailto: daniela@danielahotel.lt] [112] 4 stars hotel is in the very heart of the city, next to the main pedestrian street Laisves Avenue. 75 rooms. Prices start from €85.

• Reval Hotel Neris, K. Donelaicio str. 27, tel.: .+ 370 37 306 100 ; fax.: +370 37 306 200; [mailto: office@santakahotel.eu ] [113] Kaunas’ largest hotel in very central location with largest Conference and Event centre in Kaunas. 4 star hotel has 208 air-conditioned rooms in Scandinavian Northern European style.

• Daugirdas Hotel, T.Daugirdo str. 4, tel.: .+370 37 301 561; fax.: +370 37 301 562; [mailto: hotel@daugirdas.lt ] [114] New business class four stars hotel and restaurant "Daugirdas" is situated in the very Old Town of Kaunas, in a restored XVI - XIX century building, 50 m from the Town Hall, in the confluence of the biggest Lithuanian rivers. 48 rooms. Prices start from €75 per night.

• Klaipeda Hotel, Rotuses square 5 / V. Kuzmos str. 8, tel.:+ 370 37 229 981; fax.: +370 37 220 355; [mailto: kaunas@klaipedahotel.lt] [115] 4 star hotel is newly renovated, situated in the Old Town, and, surrounded by architectural monuments – Kaunas Castle, Cathedral Basilica, Vytautas Church, Town Hall, St. Francis Xavier Church, gothic Perkūnas House. 28 rooms. Prices start from €86.

• Hermis Hotel - Savanoriu av. 404; tel.+370 37 490 300; fax.:+370 37 490 301; [mailto: info@hermishotel.lt] [116] 4 star hotel situated at the main entrance to the city from Vilnius offers 13 modern rooms with Italian cuisine restaurant "Portofino", wellness center and conference hall. Prices from €73.

[edit] Bed & Breakfast

• Solo B&B, [117] Dysnos 10, tel.+370687 54443; +37037 743839 info@solohotel.lt. Solo B&B is newly built, in 2006, annex in the private territory, which provides excellent lodging facilities. Currently offering 2 homelike and modernly designed (27sq.m.) rooms with the separate entrances and outside terraces that lead to the spacious private garden.

[edit] Stay safe

Kaunas usually is a safe place but everyone should take some precautions against pickpockets and baggage theft, especially in public transport and at stations.

Opposite of the central train station there is a „Station‘ market“ - a rough area, especially on evenings. The baggage lockers in Kaunas railway station are a cheap and secure place to store bags and other items.

[edit] Cope

[edit] Tourist Information

• Internet. Free hotspots all over the city, especially in restaurants. Since June 2009 free WiFi hotspots on all Laisves avenue. According to some resources [118], Kaunas is 3rd city in the world with highest broadband Internet speed in 2009.

For tourism information there is Kaunas region tourism information center functioning since 1999. It also has offices at Kaunas airport, Central train station, Kaunas Bus station, and „Reval Hotel Neris“.

The official contacts are:

• Kaunas region tourism information center [119], Laisves avenue 36. Tel.: +370 37 323 436; fax:: +370 37 423 678, mail: info@kaunastic.lt. Working hours: June-August: Mo-Fr 9AM – 6 PM, Sa 10AM- 6 PM, -Su 10 AM - 3 PM; September –May Mo-Fr 9 AM – 6 PM, Sa 10AM- 3 PM, October-April: Mo-Th 9 AM – 6 PM, Fr 9AM-5PM.

• Kaunas Airport Tel.:+370 616 50991; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours:

1 hour 30 minutes before and after the company`s "Ryanair" flight.

• Kaunas Train station - M.K.Čiurlionio str. 16; Tel.:+370 37 272 955; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours:

Mo-Fr 9.10AM - 5.30PM; Lunch break: 1PM-2PM

• Kaunas Bus station – Vytauto av.24; Tel.:+370 37 322 222; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours:

Mo-Sa 8AM - 7PM; Su: 8PM-3PM

• Reval Hotel Neris – K. Donelaičio str. 27; Tel.:+370 37 306 100; mail: info@kaunastic.lt Working hours: Mo-Sa 6PM – 9AM; Sa-Su: all day and night.

[edit] Hospitals

Kaunas's hospitals offer generally high quality services at a small price if compare to the cost of a Western hospital. Probably the best-regarded is Kaunas University of Medicine hospital [120] - the largest medical institution in Lithuania. The hospital was established in 1939 as major hospital complex built near the 7 th fort. The hospital was designed by the French architects Urbain Cassan and Elie Ouchanoff. The hospital address – Eivieniu str.2. Tel.: + 370 37 326 375; Fax.:+370 37 326 427.

[edit] Get out

• Everyone, while in Kaunas, should take some time and make a short trip to Birštonas - one of the oldest balneology resorts in Lithuania. Birstonas is located about 30 km (19 miles) south from Kaunas among the beautiful forests in the Great Loops of Nemunas river. Buses #52 leave often from Kaunas central bus station, cost a few Litas and take about 40 minutes. Birštonas tourism information center [121] is in the heart of the town.

• 18 km (11 miles) to the east of Kaunas near Kaunas-Vilnius motorway in Rumšiškės is located one of the largest in Europe open-air ethnographic museum[122]. It displays the heritage of Lithuanian rural life in authentic re-erected buildings buildings from the 18th–19th centuries. Rumšiškės also belongs to the Kaunas Reservoir Regional Park. Museum is easliy reachable by bus, taxi or (in summer times) by boat from Kaunas Pazaislis pier.

• Some hours enough to make a visit to Zapyškis, 17 km (10 miles) west from Kaunas on the left bank of the Nemunas River. Zapyškis small town community is proud of St. John Baptist Church built in a gothic style in 1578. From the beginning of 20th century not used for cult. Sacral mucic concerts, cultural events are held here in summer time.

• Adventure park Lokes peda (A Bear Foot) [123] was opened in 2005 in Jonava region 35 km (22 miles) northeast from Kaunas. The park for lovers of active leisure is accessable by car or taxi going by highway #A6.

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This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!