Stand where the Nemunas and Neris rivers meet to witness the heart of Kaunas. Here, at the tip of the confluence known as Santakos Park, you can trace the layers of history from the first millennium BC to the city's vibrant interwar era.
Fortresses and Faith in the Old Town
Step into the oldest part of the city to explore structures that have defined the region for centuries. The Kaunas Castle, a massive brick fortification built at the river confluence, serves as a gateway to the past; its round tower now houses an art gallery while the grounds host various festivals.
- Vytis Monument: Located next to the castle, this 7-metre-tall bronze sculpture of a heroic knight on horseback is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
- Church of Vytautas the Great: A striking red-brick Gothic church built in 1400 that has survived centuries of floods and conflict.
- Church of St George: A notable example of Gothic redbrick architecture located just outside the castle walls.
- Cathedral of Sts Peter & Paul: This massive red-brick Gothic structure, featuring Renaissance and Baroque elements, stands as a major landmark on Vilniaus g.
Cultural Treasures and Curated Collections
The city's rich intellectual life is preserved in its many museums and galleries, particularly within the bustling Rotušės aikštė area.
- Kaunas City Hall: Known as The White Swan, this Renaissance building houses a museum of archaeological findings and a dedicated Kaunas Ceramics museum featuring hand-crafted crockery and large tile stoves.
- Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature: Located within the Siručiai Palace, this site contains an extensive collection of manuscripts and artworks related to poet Jonas Maironis.
- Kaunas Picture Gallery: Situated opposite the cathedral, this gallery showcases 20th-century Lithuanian art and a unique collection of North American Indian art.
- Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy: A specialized site housing an extensive collection of herbs and medical relics.
Art Deco Elegance in New Town
Experience the transition to modernism by walking Laisvės alėja, a 2-kilometer pedestrianized boulevard lined with linden trees. This area was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its exceptional interwar architecture.
- Historical Presidential Palace: A neo-baroque palace housing furniture and artwork from the period of Lithuania's first independence.
- Vytautas' Monument on Laisvės alėja: A 1930 sculpture of Grand Duke Vytautas standing opposite the Music Theatre, set against a backdrop of carefully maintained gardens.
- Church of St Gertrude: A Gothic redbrick church dating back to around 1500 located along the boulevard.
Views from the Heights
To see the scale of the city's urban design, cross the river and head toward the hills.
- Vytautas the Great Bridge: This bridge connects the Old Town to the Aleksotas district. It carries a legacy of transit dating back to the 19th century when it was used by Napoleon’s Army.
- Aleksotas Funicular: Located at the southern end of the Vytautas bridge, this 133-metre funicular provides a scenic ride up the hill to connect the two districts.
Whether you are wandering the historic lanes of the Old Town or riding the funicular to the heights of Aleksotas, your journey through Kaunas’ architectural heritage and riverside views awaits. Begin planning your visit to see these landmarks for yourself.