Overview
Trakai is a small lakeside town 28 km west of Vilnius, famous for its redbrick Gothic Island Castle rising from Lake Galvė. The 14th-century castle was built when Lithuania's capital moved here to fortify against the Teutonic Knights, and it remains a national symbol.
Architecture · Culture · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
4G available from all three national carriers; 5G has not arrived as of 2023. WiFi at accommodations and cafes.
Food
Karaite cuisine is the specialty: try the kybyn (meat pie) at Senoji kibininė or Kibinene. Georgian food available at Argo.
Money
Euro (€) is the local currency. Some eateries like Kibinene and Mojo are cash only. Supermarkets and most establishments accept cards.
Packing
Mosquitoes are pesky at the campsite in summer; bring repellent. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town and castle footbridges.
Transport
Buses from Vilnius cost €2.60 and run hourly; trains from €1.80 take 35 min with hourly morning/evening service. The new bus station opened Nov 2022.
