Trakai Island Castle

Trakai Island Castle is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic defensive architecture in Eastern Europe and the only water castle in the Baltic states. Its construction was initiated in the 14th century by Grand Duke Kęstutis and completed by his son, Vytautas the Great, in the early 15th century. Strategically located on an island in Lake Galvė, the castle served as both an impregnable fortress and a magnificent residence for the Lithuanian rulers. Following the Battle of Grunwald in 1410, the castle lost its military significance and was later used as a prison and a noble residence before falling into ruin in the 17th century. In the 20th century, the complex underwent extensive reconstruction, faithfully restoring its characteristic red brick walls and monumental keep. Today, the castle houses the Trakai History Museum, displaying a vast collection of medieval weapons, armor, and handicrafts. The pretty setting and the historical connection to the Karaim minority make Trakai a cultural gem of Lithuania.

Nearby cities

Alytus

Alytus is the unofficial capital of the Dzūkija region in southern Lithuania.

Alytus area

The area around Alytus lies on the banks of the Nemunas.

Jonava

Jonava is a city in central Lithuania known for its chemical industry.

Kėdainiai Old Town

Kėdainiai was a major Reformation center in the 17th century.

Kėdainiai

Kėdainiai is one of the oldest cities in Lithuania and possesses a well-preserved old town.

Ukmergė

Ukmergė is one of the oldest cities in Lithuania and is located on the Šventoji River.

Ukmergė area

The rural area around Ukmergė offers a varied landscape with many historical manors.

Elektrėnai

Elektrėnai is a modern city founded during the Soviet era as a residence for the workers of the local power plant.

Druskininkai

Druskininkai is a renowned spa resort in southern Lithuania.

Grigiškės

Grigiškės is an industrial city west of Vilnius on the Voke River.

Anykščiai

Anykščiai is known as the literary capital of Lithuania and is located on the Šventoji River.

Lentvaris

Lentvaris is an industrial city near Vilnius and Trakai.

Trakų Vokė

Trakų Vokė is located in the suburban area of Vilnius.

Garliava

Garliava is a growing city located immediately south of Kaunas.

Kaišiadorys

Kaišiadorys is an important railway junction between Vilnius and Kaunas.

History & landmarks

Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval town centers in Northern Europe.

Kaunas Town Hall

The Town Hall in the main square of Kaunas is often called the 'White Swan' due to its elegant shape and white facade.

Vilnius Town Hall

A Neoclassical landmark in the heart of the Old Town, designed by Laurynas Gucevičius.

Vilkija

A picturesque town on the banks of the Nemunas river with a striking neo-Gothic church and rich Jewish heritage.