Discover the rich and dramatic history of Kaunas on this full-day guided tour, lasting approximately 8 hours. From medieval merchants and grand churches to military heritage and the tragic events of the 20th century, this experience offers a comprehensive introduction to Lithuania’s second-largest city.
The tour begins at Kaunas Castle, one of the city's oldest landmarks and a symbol of medieval Kaunas. From there, we explore the charming Old Town, where centuries of history come alive through its cobbled streets, impressive architecture, and diverse religious heritage. Along the way, you will discover several historic churches, the famous House of Perkūnas, and the elegant Kaunas Town Hall, often referred to as the "White Swan." You will also learn about the world's longest bridge, a unique local story that reflects Kaunas' historical and cultural identity.
Leaving the Old Town behind, we continue on foot through the city center toward the Vytautas the Great War Museum. Here, you will be introduced to the long and fascinating history of Lithuanian warfare, from medieval battles and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania to the struggles for independence in the 20th century. The museum provides valuable insight into the military traditions that helped shape the nation.
After the museum visit, there will be free time for lunch, allowing you to relax and enjoy local cuisine before the afternoon program.
The final part of the tour takes us to the Ninth Fort, one of the most important historical sites in Lithuania. Originally built as part of the Kaunas Fortress defensive system, the fort later served as a hard-labor prison and became a site of mass murder during the Holocaust. During the guided visit, you will learn about all three major periods of the fort's history: the Russian Imperial fortress, the prison era, and the Nazi occupation.
A special highlight of this visit is access to the historic defensive wall and underground defensive structures, areas that are normally not accessible to independent visitors. This unique opportunity allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the fort's military design and daily life within the complex.
By the end of the day, you will have explored more than 600 years of Kaunas history, from medieval trade and religion to military conflicts, occupation, and remembrance, making this one of the most complete historical experiences available in the city.
