Cities
Lithuania Kaunas Kaunas Castle

Kaunas Castle

About

Kaunas Castle, one of the city’s oldest landmarks, rises at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, where it once guarded Lithuania’s western frontier. Built in the 14th century, it is the country’s only stone castle with two defensive walls, a sign of its strategic importance during battles against the Teutonic Order. Today, its restored round tower and surviving fortifications offer a vivid glimpse into medieval life. Inside, visitors can explore exhibitions that trace the castle’s turbulent history, from early Grand Duchy defences to later reconstructions. Archaeological finds—weapon fragments, ceramics and everyday objects—reveal how soldiers and residents lived within the fortress. The tower’s upper floors host rotating cultural displays, often featuring medieval armour, local legends and artistic interpretations of Kaunas’ past. One of the most engaging experiences is climbing to the viewing level, where the river panorama mirrors the castle’s original lookout purpose. Seasonal events, including historical reenactments and night tours, add an atmospheric layer to the visit, bringing the fortress’ long story to life.

Kaunas Lithuania
Kaunas Castle
Location

Kaunas Castle stands in the heart of Kaunas Old Town, right where the Nemunas and Neris rivers meet, on a small rise overlooking the water. It sits at the end of Pilies Street, close to the main Town Hall Square and the lively pedestrian zone of the historic centre. Just a few steps from the castle you reach the Town Hall Square, surrounded by cafés, souvenir shops, and the grand façade of the Kaunas City Hall. A short walk along the riverbank leads to the sports and cultural district near the Neris, while the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art and the Kaunas Town Hall Museum are also within easy reach on foot. Across the river, the city’s green hills of Žaliakalnis and Aleksotas are popular for panoramic views and rides on the funicular railways, making Kaunas Castle a natural starting point for a day exploring both medieval heritage and modern riverside life.

Kaunas City Museum Kaunas City Museum Museum Vytautas the Great War Museum Vytautas the Great War Museum Museum M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art Museum Devils' Museum Devils' Museum Museum Kaunas Ninth Fort Museum Kaunas Ninth Fort Museum Museum Lietuvos aviacijos muziejus Lietuvos aviacijos muziejus Museum Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy Museum Historical Presidential Palace Historical Presidential Palace Museum Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Museum of Zoology Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Museum of Zoology Museum Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature Museum Kaunas Sport museum Kaunas Sport museum Museum Kaunas Art Deco Museum Kaunas Art Deco Museum Museum KGB Atomic Bunker Museum KGB Atomic Bunker Museum Museum Stumbras Museum Stumbras Museum Museum Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Basilica Church of St. Michael the Archangel Church of St. Michael the Archangel Church Kaunas State Musical Theatre Kaunas State Musical Theatre Theatre Kaunas State Drama Theatre Kaunas State Drama Theatre Theatre Ąžuolynas Park Ąžuolynas Park Park VDU Botanical garden VDU Botanical garden Botanical Garden Lithuanian Zoo Lithuanian Zoo Zoo Pazaislis Monastery and Church Pazaislis Monastery and Church Monastery