Sightseeing Tour to Kaunas and Paaislis Monastery

Explore Kaunas, Lithuania’s Second City, in a Full-Day Tour

This 8-hour sightseeing tour from Vilnius offers an engaging look at Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city. Priced reasonably, it includes hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and visits to some of the city’s most notable sites, making it ideal for travelers interested in history, art, and unique cultural attractions.

What makes this tour stand out is the variety of stops: from the historic Old Town with riverside views to the M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum, and the Devils Museum with its peculiar carvings. The 16th-century Paaislis Monastery adds a layer of historical depth, especially during its summer concert series. This tour suits those who want a flexible, insightful day exploring Lithuania’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 8 hours, departing from Vilnius with hotel pickup included
• Main sights: Kaunas Old Town, Nemunas and Neris rivers, M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum, Devils Museum, Paaislis Monastery
• Transport: Air-conditioned minibus with panoramic windows
• Guide: English-speaking, knowledgeable about Lithuanian history and culture
• Museum options: Choose between the Devils Museum or the National Art Museum based on your interests
• Special features: The Paaislis Monastery hosts summer concerts, being a highlight for music lovers

Comfortable Transportation and Friendly Guides Lead You Through Kaunas

The tour departs from Vilnius, with hotel pickup included, making it convenient for hotel guests. Traveling by air-conditioned minibus with panoramic windows, the journey to Kaunas covers about 100 kilometers (60 miles) and takes roughly an hour.

A friendly and informative guide leads the group, sharing insights into Lithuania’s history and culture in English. The guides are praised for their knowledge and personable approach, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. The group remains small and private, ensuring personalized attention throughout the day.

Discover Kaunas’ Historic Old Town and Riverside Views

Upon arrival, the tour explores the Old Town of Kaunas, which features pedestrian-friendly avenues lined with linden trees and stunning views of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. The scenic riverside provides perfect photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere to start your sightseeing.

The historic streets are filled with charming buildings and parks, offering a glimpse into Lithuania’s past. This area is ideal for leisurely walks, with plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the local ambiance. The Old Town is a highlight for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Visit the M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum or the Devils Museum

Guests have a choice of museum visits based on their interests. The M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum is dedicated to Lithuanian artist and composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis, showcasing his paintings and musical works. It offers a fascinating insight into Lithuanian creative talent.

Alternatively, the Devils Museum (Muidzinavičius Museum) features an amusing collection of devil carvings from around the world. The collection is quirky and entertaining, providing a different cultural perspective. The museum’s unique collection makes it a memorable stop for those interested in folk art and symbolism.

More Great Tours Nearby

Explore the 16th-Century Paaislis Monastery and Its Cultural Significance

The Paaislis Monastery is a major highlight of the tour, dating back to the 16th century. This largest monastery complex in Lithuania has a storied past, having served as an Orthodox church, psychiatric hospital, archive, and art gallery over the centuries.

Today, the monastery functions as Kaunas’ Centre of Culture, hosting summer concerts due to its exceptional acoustics. It is especially busy during the Paaislis Music Festival, which spans three months in the summer, making it a lively cultural hub and a fascinating glimpse into Lithuania’s religious and artistic history.

Flexible Museum Visits: Choose Based on Your Interests

The tour includes entrance fees to either the museum of your choice—M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum or Devils Museum—and the Paaislis Monastery. This flexibility allows travelers to focus on their particular interests, whether art or folk traditions.

The museum visits are well-paced, with ample time to explore exhibits and appreciate the collections. The guide provides background context, enriching the experience at each site.

Insights into Lithuanian Culture and History from a Knowledgeable Guide

Throughout the day, the guide shares engaging stories about Lithuania’s past, culture, and the significance of each site visited. Reviewers highlight that guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and speak fluent English, making the tour accessible and informative.

Guests praise the guide’s ability to explain complex history simply and for being attentive to individual interests. The small group size fosters a more personal and relaxed atmosphere, allowing questions and in-depth discussions.

The Monastery’s Summer Concerts and Unique Atmosphere

During the summer months, the Paaislis Monastery becomes a vibrant venue for concerts. The glorious Italianate Baroque architecture and excellent acoustics create a special ambiance, making this stop particularly memorable during its concert season.

If timing aligns with the Paaislis Music Festival, visitors can enjoy a musical performance in an inspiring setting. Outside of concert days, the monastery remains a peaceful place to explore and learn about its varied history.

Practical Details and Tour Flexibility

This private group tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. The duration is 8 hours, with check availability for the specific starting times.

It’s important to note that the Paaislis Monastery is closed on Sundays, and the museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. The tour suits travelers with an interest in culture, art, history, and unique Lithuanian sites.

Summary: An Engaging Day in Lithuania’s Cultural Heartland

This full-day tour to Kaunas and Paaislis Monastery offers a well-rounded look at Lithuania’s second city and its religious and cultural landmarks. The combination of scenic riverside views, art collections, and historic architecture makes it a rewarding experience for those wanting to understand Lithuania beyond Vilnius.

The comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and site flexibility add to its appeal. While the tour’s pace is steady, it provides enough time at each stop to appreciate what makes Kaunas special, making it suitable for travelers with a range of interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which museum to visit during this tour?
Yes, you can select to visit either the M. K. iurlionis National Art Museum or the Devils Museum, based on your preferences.

Is the Paaislis Monastery open on Sundays?
No, the Paaislis Monastery is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit on other days to experience it fully.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes transportation by air-conditioned minibus, a professional guide, and entrance fees to the museum of your choice and the Paaislis Monastery.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in music?
Absolutely; during summer, the Paaislis Monastery hosts summer concerts as part of the Paaislis Music Festival, making it particularly appealing for music lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby