Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania: Visit the Island Castle and More

After starting our trip in Kaunas, Lithuania’s vibrant second-largest city, we continued our Eastern Europe journey. Trakai – our second stop. Kaunas surprised us with its mix of historic Old Town charm, lively cultural scene, and striking architecture. It made the perfect introduction to Lithuania. From there, we took the short journey to Trakai and were immediately captivated by its fairytale setting. Let’s see the best Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania.

Trakai, Lithuania

Once the proud capital, it is now a charming historic town that captivates visitors with its breathtaking Island Castle and stunning lake views. Moreover, thanks to its close location, it’s an easy and quick trip from Vilnius. Whether you’re craving history, adventure, or pure relaxation, Trakai promises it all in one day. So, if you’re planning a day trip, here’s exactly how to organize your visit – along with some helpful tips to make the most of your time!

Getting to Trakai from Vilnius – Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania

The easiest and most affordable way to reach Trakai is by train from Vilnius. A train ride takes only around 40 minutes and costs approximately $1–$4, making it an easy day trip. The train route itself is scenic, and when you arrive in Trakai, you’ll find a beautiful walk from the station to the Island Castle along the lake. This trail offers great views, so be sure to bring your camera!

Explore Trakai Island Castle – Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania

Trakai Island Castle is a must-see. Located on Lake Galvė, this 14th-century castle was once the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and is now part of the Trakai History Museum. Moreover, inside, you can explore rooms filled with historic artifacts, exhibits, and medieval décor, which give insight into Lithuania’s past. For updated ticket prices and opening times, you can visit the official website here.

Water Activities and Tips – Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania

For water enthusiasts, Trakai Lake offers a great way to enjoy the outdoors with kayak and pedal boat rentals available at various points along the lake. When renting, consider finding a rental spot closer to the castle rather than at the first stand you see. This way, you can maximize your time on the water without worrying about getting back within the rental time. Rentals are usually priced by the hour, so choosing a closer spot ensures a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Walking and Sightseeing Around Trakai

Aside from the castle and lake, Trakai is also a charming little town with colorful wooden houses, friendly locals, and cozy cafés. What’s more, it’s the perfect place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes like kibinai – delicious savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables. As you stroll along the lakeside, you’ll also discover plenty of scenic spots that are ideal for taking photos. All in all, Trakai offers a wonderful mix of history, food, and natural beauty, making it a place you’ll be glad you didn’t miss.

💡 Did you know? In Polish, there’s a playful expression “zabieraj dupę w Troki,” which literally translates to “take your ass to Trakai.” It’s often used humorously to tell someone to go away. In English, it’s a bit like saying “off you go” or “go take a hike.” The saying comes from the popularity of Trakai among Poles. That’s thanks to its close ties with Polish-Lithuanian history and its famous castle. So next time you’re in Lithuania, remember – you’re not just visiting a fairytale town. You’re also stepping into a phrase that’s been part of Polish slang for generations!

Interesting Facts About Trakai, Lithuania – Things to do in Trakai, Lithuania
1. Trakai was once the capital of Lithuania during the Grand Duchy period.
2. Trakai Island Castle is the only castle built on an island in Eastern Europe.
3. The Karaim community, who were brought to Trakai from Crimea, still live there today. They add a unique cultural heritage to the town.
4. Lake Galvė has 21 islands, but Trakai Island Castle is the main attraction.
5. Trakai is a favorite destination for both locals and international travelers, especially in summer.

Trakai – a part of our Eastern European adventure – second stop

Our Eastern Europe adventure didn’t end up there. After visiting Kaunas in Lithuania and Trakai, we traveled through several incredible destinations:

• Vilnius, Lithuania – The country’s capital is brimming with Baroque architecture, a UNESCO-listed Old Town, lively cafés, and cultural landmarks, making it a must-see stop on any Lithuania travel itinerary.
• Riga, Latvia – Known as the Art Nouveau capital of Europe, Riga combines stunning architecture with a vibrant Old Town and the famous Riga Central Market, perfect for travelers exploring the Baltics.
• Tallinn, Estonia – A true medieval gem, Tallinn enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, Gothic churches, and cozy cafés in one of the best-preserved Old Towns in Europe.
• Helsinki, Finland – Finland’s dynamic capital offers stunning harbor views, innovative modern architecture, Nordic design districts, and a thriving food culture, making it a top Nordic city break destination.
• Turku, Finland – Set along the scenic Aura River, Turku is a historic Finnish city featuring medieval castle ruins, fascinating museums, charming riverside streets, and a lively cultural scene.