There are plenty of Kaunas things to do in this Lithuanian city. Kaunas is one of the largest cities in the country and is near the Kaunas Reservoir, the largest body of water in the country. It is thought that the city was founded by the Romans. There is been a settlement at this spot since the 10th century and the first town arose in 1030. It is but a short distance from Vilnius.

A City of Museums

There are many museums which have given the city the nickname the city of museums. Some of the excellent museums you can visit include the Ceramics Museum found in the Town Hall and the Zmuidzinavicuis Museum, or Devil’s Museum. This museum contains more than 2,000 carvings and sculptures of the devil from all over the globe. The M.K. Ciurlionis National Art Museum commemorates avant garde artists who combined music and painting into one medium. Another excellent museum is the War Museum which tells of the Vytautas the Great.

Kaunas Castle

This castle was built in the middle of the 14th century and is at an important strategic position. A section of the caste is still standing and you can visit the ruins.  There are archaeological excavations at the castle and plans for a major reconstruction and restoration.

The Botanical Gardens

These gardens were first planted in 1923 and cover 62 hectares. There are experimental greenhouses and many conservatories as it runs in conjunction with the Vytautas Magnus University. The gardens house many research facilities, display local plants and sell shrubs, flowers and trees to visitors.

Kaunas Zoo

This is the only zoo run by the state. It is in the southwest part of town in an oak grove. It currently has more than 2,800 animals and you can see a wide range of mammals, reptiles, fish, birds, amphibians and insects.

Ice Fishing

If you visit in the winter then get outside and experience ice-fishing. There is optional ice bathing, a BBQ and drinks--and the local vodka will keep you nice and warm.  There are many tours that offer ice-fishing adventures as well as traditional saunas and outdoor jacuzzis.

The City Center

The city center is one of the main attractions as it is flanked by the Nemunas River and the Neris River. There are many old historic buildings in this area and plenty of shopping. Many of the buildings date back to the 16th century. From here you are just a short walk from the Cathedral.