Trakai: attractions, restaurants and entertainment

Trakai is The Old Capital of Lithuania and the only place in Eastern Europe where a castle is built on an island. Tourists from all around the world come to this beautiful place to get acquainted with Lithuanian folklore and colorful culture, enjoy traditional meals and have fun. So, which Trakai attractions, restaurants, entertainment and other activities are the most worthy of attention?

 

Best attractions to get to know Trakai

Trakai Island Castle

Address: Karaimai St. 43C

It is the only water castle in Eastern Europe, the Gothic Trakai Island Castle is one of the most advanced examples of a 15th century castle. Almost all the dukes of the country used to live in this castle. This tradition was ended by Žygimantas Augustas, who decided to build a palace in Vilnius.

In the second half of 20th century research was started on the territory of the castle and soon after that, the Museum of Trakai History was established in the restored palace. In addition to the permanent exposition, various temporary exhibitions, performances, conferences and music festivals are organized in the castle and its yard. It has become a tradition to hold Ancient Craft Days and Vytautas the Great historical evenings in the castle yard. By the way, the castle offers children and adults different types of educational programs.

Trakai Regional Traditional Craft Centre

Address: Karaimai St. 41

Trakai region is special not only for its wonderful nature, but also for the diversity of nations. Representatives of various cultures and faiths have lived here since ancient times: Karaites, Tatars, etc. There was Unitarian and Catholic churches, the Tatar mosque, the Karaite kenesa, and the Orthodox churches, which enriched the city with cultural traditions, customs, and crafts.

So, a few years ago Trakai Regional Traditional Craft Centre has strated their operation. The main goal of this center is to preserve the cultural heritage of different cultures: holiday traditions and customs, cuisine and crafts. During the holidays and throughout the summer season, masters of different fields demonstrate their crafts here.

More than 10 educational programs are held here: from baking „kibinai“ (Lithuanian meat pies) to making decorations out of straw, from wool felting to carpet weaving and much more. Various cooking classes are offered here, during which the secrets of cooking Karaite kibins, Dzūkai (inhabitants of south-east Lithuania) bread or homemade dumpling soup are revealed. There is also a souvenir shop where you can buy unique handmade goods. And in the summer they organize children's camps.

Educational trails - peace in nature

Varnikai Nature Trail

Coordinates: 54.64792325078889, 24.96482100863515

The Varnikai educational trail is a 3.5 km long route that stretches across the Ilgelis swamp. This is an ideal place for those who want to go for a walk or ride a bike. It is a great place to visit alone or with friends and family. While traveling on this trail you will see enchanting views of nature and hear the melodious chirping of birds.

Educational trail "Raistas"

Address: Paraisčiai, Trakai eldership

This trail is located in an exceptional natural environment, surrounded by a giant bog. On the route there are gazebos, grills, where you can have a picnic. "Raistas" is the perfect solution for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a deep breathe in nature.

However, this educational trail is located in a private area, so the working hours should be taken into account. The price for visitors from 6 to 18 years old is 1 euro, and for those over 18 - 2 euro.

Events and entertainment in Trakai

Ancient Crafts Days

Address: Karaimai St. 43C (Lake Galvė, Castle Island)

Trakai Island Castle annualy hosts Ancient Crafts Days. It is an event in August that lasts for several days and takes you back to medieval times. The guests of the celebration get the opportunity to learn about the intricacies of the ancient crafts.

During the event, various crafts are presented: wood carving, bookmaking, blacksmithing, etc. Jewelers present their works of art, which were used to be worn by ladies and knights of the castle. In addition, visitors are invited to try out themselves brass casting, making a bead from a glass shard, beating butter and pressing cheese.

Jesters, music and dance ensembles also perform at the celebration. There is a knights fight, potters in a kiln make pans in which culinary experts cook pancakes or scrambled eggs.

Vytautas the Great Remembrance Day

Address: Karaimai St. 43C (Lake Galvė, Castle Island)

Every year on the day of the death of Duke Vytautas the Great, October 27, you can visit the historical evening at the great hall of Trakai Island Castle, held in honor of the Duke. Durring the memorial you can learn about the honorable and determined grand duke, his environment, the culture of the time and other interesting topics. During the event a live music concert is organized for the guests.

 

AJ Chocolate Sculptures Museum

Address: Vytautas St. 4

The AJ Chocolate Sculpture Museum displays over 100 amazing sculptures, most of which are life-size. There are 4 spaces here, each of which is different: the sculptures represent different themes, the movies "Chocolat" and "It’s a Wonderful Life", Maya, Columbus.

The exposition is updated every few years, so new sweet characters appear here all the time. In the museum, you can also see the paintings created by the Lithuanian record holder, artist Valerijus Šatunovas.

Cafes and restaurants

“Markizas“

Address: Karaimai St. 25

"Markizas" opened its doors in 2001 on the day when the first and only king of Lithuania – Mindaugas, was crowned a few hundred years ago. Through the café windows and the outdoor terrace guests can admire the enchanting sight of Lake Galvė and Trakai Castle. It serves European cuisine, healthy and organic food, delicious kibins, grilled steaks and other delicacies.

 

“Trakų dvarelis“

Address: Karaimai St. 54a

Surrounded by beautiful nature, on the shore of Totoriškių Lake, next to the castle of Trakai Island, there is a restaurant "Trakų dvarelis". This restaurant stands out for its extremely cozy and luxurious interior. These spaces are perfectly suited for both personal celebrations and company events.

In the classic cuisine restaurant, you can enjoy baked duck breast with caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes with warm bread, cod steak, marinated olives in honey sauce, Karaim kibins, whiteleg shrimp or chocolate souffle.

 

Recreation: camping and hotels

„Slėnis“

Address: Slėnis St. 1

This is perhaps the largest camping site in Lithuania. It can accommodate up to 88 campers and tents. The campsite is located in Trakai district by Lake Galvė, only 35 km from Vilnius and 80 km from Kaunas. This place is a wonderful natural oasis, surrounded by water.

You can stay in double, triple, quadruple or six-person rooms, cabins, or stay in your own tent or camper. Guests can choose from a variety of activities. The territory has a private beach and sunbeds, basketball, volleyball and football courts, barbecues and picnic areas. You can also do fun water activities, such as sailing, rowing, or taking a ride with water bikes.

„Margis“

Address: Ežero St. 39, Penkininkai village.

These comfortable hotel rooms and cosily furnished villas stands out with their moderate style, calm color details and gentle forms. The rooms are furnished in the style of Provence, and the interior is dominated by wooden details.

Hotel rooms and two-story villas with large terraces, located next to the wonderful Lake Margis, allows you to enjoy comfort and the natural landscape of the Lithuanian pine forest. Friends, family and pets are welcome at this hotel.