Three Capitals of Lithuania: Trakai, Kernave, Vilnius

Lithuania’s three historic capitals – Trakai, Kernave, and Vilnius – offer travelers a captivating journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the picturesque island castle of Trakai to the archaeological wonders of Kernave and the UNESCO-listed charms of Vilnius’ Old Town, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Lithuania’s past. Whether you’re drawn to medieval architecture, ancient hill forts, or baroque splendor, this tour promises to unveil the remarkable stories that have shaped the nation’s identity. Discover how these three capitals continue to captivate visitors with their enduring legacies.

Key Points

• Explore the historical capitals of Lithuania, including Vilnius, Kernave, and Trakai, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and architectural significance.

• Discover the UNESCO-listed Vilnius Old Town, with its charming medieval district and optional panoramic views from the Hill of Three Crosses.

• Visit the Kernave archaeological site, the first Lithuanian capital, featuring five hill forts and an on-site museum highlighting important historical findings.

• Experience the 14th-century Trakai Island Castle, a well-preserved example of Lithuanian medieval architecture and history, set on a tranquil lake.

• Enhance the tour with an optional traditional Lithuanian lunch and boat cruise around Trakai’s picturesque lakes for a more immersive cultural experience.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour offers a captivating exploration of Lithuania’s historical capitals. Highlights include Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town, where visitors can wander through the lower part of the city’s charming medieval district.

For panoramic views, an optional stop at the Hill of Three Crosses provides a stunning vantage point.

The tour also visits Kernave, the first Lithuanian capital, where guests can explore five hill forts and an archaeology museum.

Finally, the iconic Trakai Island Castle, perched on a tranquil lake, offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.

With a private guide, travelers can customize the experience and delve deeper into Lithuania’s fascinating past.

Vilnius Old Town Exploration

Visitors can explore the lower part of Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town, a charming medieval district brimming with historic architecture and cobblestone streets.

The tour includes an optional stop at the Hill of Three Crosses, which offers panoramic views over the city. Here, visitors can admire the striking monument and soak in the scenic vistas.

The Vilnius Old Town tour typically lasts around 2 hours and is completely free to explore.

With its picturesque lanes, baroque churches, and lively squares, the Old Town showcases Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage and provides a glimpse into the country’s fascinating past.

Kernave Archaeological Site

After exploring the charming Vilnius Old Town, the tour takes visitors to the Kernave Museum-Reserve, the first capital of Lithuania.

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history.

Highlights of the Kernave visit include:

1. Exploring the 5 hill forts that make up the archaeological site.
2. Visiting the on-site museum to learn about the area’s significant archaeological finds.
3. Browsing the souvenir shop for unique Lithuanian handicrafts.
4. Spending approximately 1 hour discovering this fascinating former capital.

With its well-preserved historical sites and informative museum, Kernave provides an enriching addition to the Lithuania capitals tour.

Trakai Island Castle

From Kernave, the tour continues to the captivating Trakai Island Castle.

This 14th-century castle, situated on an island in Lake Galvė, is a stunning example of medieval Lithuanian architecture. Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved halls, towers, and defensive walls, learning about its rich history as the former residence of Lithuanian dukes.

The castle’s location on the tranquil lake creates a picturesque and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

With its unique setting and impressive architectural features, Trakai Island Castle is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into Lithuania’s fascinating past.

Optional Lunch and Boat Cruise

Following the visit to Trakai Island Castle, travelers have the opportunity to savor a traditional Lithuanian lunch. This optional add-on allows visitors to immerse themselves further in the country’s rich culinary heritage.

The lunch typically features:

1. Cepelinai – potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat or cottage cheese.
2. Kugelis – a savory potato pudding.
3. Saltibarsciai – a chilled beet soup.
4. Lithuanian bread and butter.

After the satisfying meal, travelers can opt for a boat cruise around Trakai’s picturesque lakes, offering a unique perspective of the historic island castle.

This leisurely activity completes the day’s exploration of Lithuania’s capitals.

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The tour is a full-day experience that allows visitors to explore Lithuania’s capitals at their own pace.

With hassle-free hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Vilnius, the private tour includes a local guide who provides insights into the historical significance of each destination.

The tour covers Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town, the archaeological site of Kernave, and Trakai’s island castle.

Optional extras include a traditional Lithuanian lunch and a Trakai boat cruise.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, awarding it an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 12 reviews.

The feedback highlights several key strengths:

• 10 customers gave 5-star ratings, praising the knowledgeable guides and interesting historical insights.
• A reviewer noted it was a "fantastic tour" that provided an "absolutely brilliant experience."
• The tour’s customization to accommodate mobility needs was also commended.
• One 4-star review mentioned the tour was a "great tour of three capitals," indicating a consistently positive experience.

With such glowing feedback, this tour appears to offer an exceptional way to explore Lithuania’s captivating history and landmarks.

Booking and Cancellation Information

Upon booking, customers receive confirmation immediately.

This full-day tour allows for flexible scheduling, as it’s available year-round. The tour is private, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace.

Infant seats are provided, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Service animals are permitted.

The tour departs from central Vilnius and covers the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the archaeological site of Kernave, and Trakai’s island castle.

Guests can enhance their experience with an optional traditional Lithuanian lunch and Trakai boat cruise.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

The price for the group of up to 2 people starts from $216.27, with a lowest price guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Group Size Limited?

The tour is a private tour, so the group size is not limited. Travelers can customize the trip and explore at their own pace with a private guide.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour is private and fully customizable. You can tailor the itinerary to your interests and explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable local guide.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, and travelers can reserve now and pay later for flexibility. While there are no explicit discounts mentioned, the private nature of the tour allows for customization to suit individual needs and budgets.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The full-day tour spends approximately 2 hours exploring Vilnius’ Old Town, 1 hour at the Kernave Museum-Reserve, and an unspecified amount of time at Trakai’s island castle. Travelers can customize their experience and allot more or less time as desired.

Is There an Option to Join the Tour Mid-Way?

There’s no option to join the tour midway. The tour is a pre-arranged full-day experience with a set itinerary covering the highlights. Joining partway would disrupt the flow and logistics of the privately guided tour.

Recap

The three historical capitals of Lithuania offer visitors a captivating journey through the country’s rich heritage. Trakai’s picturesque island castle, Kernave’s archaeological site, and Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town provide a comprehensive exploration of Lithuania’s cultural and architectural highlights. This tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the nation’s remarkable past and its enduring significance.