Kaunas is a city full of surprises, with layers of history, architecture, and stories waiting to be uncovered. Unlike some Lithuanian cities that are known primarily for their medieval core, Kaunas offers a vivid mix of Jewish heritage, art deco architecture, and mysterious ghost stories. What makes it especially appealing are the diverse tours that suit different interests—whether you want a deep dive into Jewish history, a private walk tailored to your curiosity, or a spooky night tour through the Old Town.
Among our favorites are the From Vilnius: Guided Jewish Heritage Day Trip to Kaunas for its respectful storytelling about Lithuania’s complex past, and the Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Private Ghost Tour for a fun, chilling walk. Whether you’re a history lover, a culture seeker, or someone craving a spooky story, Kaunas’s tour options won’t disappoint.
Below, you’ll find a variety of guided experiences, private walks, self-guided options, and specialty tours—each highlighting a unique aspect of this Lithuanian city.
1. From Vilnius: Guided Jewish Heritage Day Trip to Kaunas
For those interested in Jewish history, this full-day trip from Vilnius offers a poignant look at Lithuania’s Jewish community. The tour visits Kaunas Synagogue, the Ninth Fort museum, and the Kovno Ghetto, offering a comprehensive view of the area’s tragic past. Led by a private guide, the tour provides flexible scheduling, so you can spend more or less time at each site.
What sets this tour apart is the sensitivity and depth with which it explores Lithuania’s Jewish heritage, aiming to educate without overwhelming. Visitors love the knowledgeable guide, Cyrus, who shares stories with respect and insight, making this experience both educational and emotionally impactful. The 8-hour duration makes it ideal for those wanting an immersive experience without rushing.
Bottom line: This is perfect if you want a respectful, detailed journey into Lithuania’s Jewish history, especially during the Holocaust, with the benefit of a private, flexible schedule.
2. Kaunas: Private custom tour with a local guide
If you prefer exploring at your own pace and want a personalized experience, this private tour is a solid choice. For around $54 per person, your guide will tailor the walk to your interests, covering Kaunas’s main sights, hidden corners, and local eateries. It’s a flexible tour lasting from 2 to 8 hours, ideal for travelers who want to mix sightseeing with food stops or specific areas of interest.
The guide’s local knowledge shines, revealing not only popular sites but also lesser-known spots that aren’t in every guidebook. Many reviews praise how the guide shares valuable tips for dining and exploring beyond the tour, making it a well-rounded experience. It’s great for individuals, couples, or small groups who want a customized, intimate look at Kaunas.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want control over their itinerary and appreciate local insights, with the chance to customize the tour to their personal interests.
3. Kaunas : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour with a Local Guide
For a focused, three-hour walk, this private guided tour offers a deep dive into Kaunas’s landmarks and hidden treasures. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll visit the city’s key sights like the Old Town, Kaunas Castle, and Vytautas the Great Bridge, with plenty of time for questions.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizability—you can specify what you’re most interested in, whether it’s historic architecture, cultural sites, or vibrant neighborhoods. The reviews highlight guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experience engaging and informative.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a concise yet rich overview of Kaunas, tailored to their specific interests and paced comfortably.
4. Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour
If your time in Kaunas is limited, this two-hour walking tour hits the highlights—Old Town, historic churches, town hall, and unique architecture. It’s a brisk but well-organized introduction to the city’s core, perfect for a quick layover or a first visit.
Led on foot, the tour offers insights into Kaunas’s role as the capital of the First Lithuanian Republic and its traditional roots. Reviewers mention that the tour is both informative and enjoyable, giving a good overview without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with limited time but an interest in the city’s key sites and cultural background.
5. Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS)
This private tour combines a deep exploration of Kaunas Old Town with a bonus visit to the IX Fort Museum for groups up to four. The Old Town walk covers landmarks like Kaunas Castle, St. George the Martyr Church, and the Vytautas Great Bridge. The tour lasts about an hour and twenty minutes, with admission included for several sites.
The bonus option takes you out of the city to the IX Fort, a somber reminder of Lithuania’s wartime past. Your guide, Karolis, is praised for his expertise and engaging storytelling, making complex history accessible and meaningful.
Bottom line: A comprehensive tour for history enthusiasts who want a combination of city sights and a poignant visit to the IX Fort.
6. Kaunas city center tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS)
This longer, more extensive tour covers the Old Town, New Town, and Liberty Boulevard**, including landmarks like St. Sacrament Church and Choral Synagogue. Lasting about 2.5 hours, it involves walking around 3–4 km, providing a thorough overview of Kaunas’s urban fabric.
For small groups (up to four), the IX Fort Museum can be added as a bonus, available via a private drive. The guide’s detailed commentary helps visitors understand Kaunas’s evolution from medieval times to a modern city.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, paced exploration with the option to include a meaningful WWII site visit.
7. Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Private Ghost Tour
For those intrigued by mysteries and legends, this private ghost tour explores the darker stories of Kaunas Old Town, including tales of massacres, punishments, and haunted sites like the medieval castle. It’s a two-hour journey into the city’s spooky side.
Led by a private guide, the tour is tailored to your pace and interest, with stories of secret ghost tales and historic punishments. The guide’s storytelling makes the experience lively and engaging, especially at night when the atmospheric streets add to the chills.
Bottom line: A great choice for fans of ghost stories and medieval legends, seeking an atmospheric and personalized nighttime experience.
8. Kaunas: Old Town Private Ghost Tour
Another ghost-themed option, this private tour offers a two-hour walk through Kaunas Old Town, with stories about medieval secret passages, hidden ghosts, and dark legends. The guide’s detailed storytelling uncovers secrets of the city’s mysterious past.
The private setting ensures a personalized experience, perfect for those looking for a spooky yet informative evening. The stories focus on the city’s darkest corners and history of violence, making it both fun and slightly chilling.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers interested in local legends and seeking a private, atmospheric ghost walk.
9. Kaunas: 1 Day Self-Guided Bike Tour with Train Tickets
If you prefer independent exploration, this self-guided bike tour includes round-trip train tickets from Vilnius. Choose between two scenic routes, cycling through Old Town, along the Nemunas River, and visiting landmarks like Pažaislis Monastery and the Žalgirio Arena.
With detailed maps and flexible timing, this option suits active travelers who enjoy setting their own pace. The combination of bike riding and train travel offers a fun way to cover more ground in a day, especially if you want to see both central and outlying sights.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers who value flexibility and want to see a wide area of Kaunas at their own pace.
10. Kaunas: Pažaislis Monastery and Church Guided Tour
Step into one of Lithuania’s most beautiful Baroque sites with this guided tour of Pažaislis Monastery. Known as “Italy in Lithuania,” the monastery complex features ornate architecture, stunning frescoes, and peaceful gardens.
The two-hour tour provides insights into the religious and artistic significance of the site, which is among the most visited in Kaunas. The guide highlights the monastery’s history, architecture, and role in Lithuanian culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in fine architecture, religious art, and a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
11. Kaunas Private Tour: Love Stories
For a more romantic take, this private tour explores Kaunas’s cozy streets and hidden corners, revealing love stories and secrets that give the city its special charm. The 2-hour walk is ideal for couples or anyone wanting to experience Kaunas’s softer side.
Your guide will share romantic legends, city secrets, and offer a relaxed pace to soak in the atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a personal, intimate experience combined with local storytelling.
Bottom line: A charming option for couples or travelers who want to discover Kaunas’s romantic side through stories and scenic walks.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Kaunas
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and time availability. If you’re deeply interested in Jewish heritage, the Vilnius to Kaunas Jewish Heritage trip offers a profound experience. For those wanting a flexible, personalized exploration, the private custom tour is ideal.
Active travelers might love the self-guided bike tour, while history enthusiasts should consider the Old Town + IX Fort or guided monastery. For something different, the ghost tours add a spooky, atmospheric dimension.
Book in advance—especially for private and ghost tours—since they tend to fill up quickly during peak season or weekends. Early planning ensures you’ll get your preferred times and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Kaunas offers a range of tours that cater to history lovers, culture seekers, and even those looking for a little thrill. Whether you prefer a deep historical journey, a personalized walk, or a spooky ghost story, the city’s diverse options won’t leave you bored.
For a balanced experience, consider starting with the Jewish Heritage Day Trip for a meaningful cultural encounter, and then perhaps follow up with a private ghost tour for a fun evening. Active travelers may want to tackle the bike tour to see more ground at their own pace.
Whichever you choose, Kaunas’s authentic stories, beautiful architecture, and lively streets await. Book early to secure your spot and prepare for a memorable Lithuanian experience.
