Few places in Lithuania offer the same mix of charm, history, and outdoor adventure as Trakai. Known for its fairy-tale island castle and scenic lakes, Trakai is a perfect destination for exploring by boat, bike, or even from the sky. Among the many ways to experience this magical town, I particularly like the hot air balloon ride for its breathtaking views, and the castle tour for its rich history. These experiences give you a chance to see Trakai from perspectives most visitors miss—whether floating above the lakes or walking through centuries-old walls. For those interested in local culture, the Kybyns cooking lesson offers a glimpse into the unique traditions of the Karaites community.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours that suit different interests: floating on Lake Galvė, cycling through lush countryside, exploring open-air museums, or tasting authentic Lithuanian flavors. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush or a peaceful cultural experience, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
Let’s take a closer look at the best tours in Trakai, from sky-high adventures to intimate local lessons.
1. Trakai: Hot Air Balloon Ride
Explore Vilnius from a bird’s eye view with this hot air balloon ride over Trakai. As the only European capital with hot air balloons flying daily, Vilnius offers a unique backdrop for this adventure. The company operating this experience has been around since 1998, making it one of Lithuania’s oldest balloon companies, and all pilots boast at least 1,000 flights—so safety is a given.
This 4-hour tour starts with pick-up in Vilnius, where you’ll head out in a van to the launch site. After a short safety briefing, you’ll ascend in a hot air balloon for approximately 45 minutes, drifting over Trakai’s lakes, forests, and the iconic Trakai Island Castle. The views are spectacular, with clear vistas that reveal the town’s medieval fortress amid nature’s calm. The ride concludes with a celebratory toast, and then a van takes you back to Vilnius.
What makes this experience stand out? The chance to see Lithuania’s only daily balloon flights, the years of expertise behind the operation, and the intimate, family-run atmosphere. Reviewers describe it as “breathtaking,” “smooth,” and “an unforgettable experience from start to finish.” It’s perfect for adventure lovers or anyone wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of Trakai. The main consideration? It’s weather-dependent, so flexibility is key.
Bottom Line: If you want a soaring memory with expert pilots and stunning scenery, this hot air balloon ride tops the list. It’s a splurge but a truly unique way to see Lithuania.
2. Vilnius: Trakai Castle Half-Day Tour by minivan
For a more traditional exploration, the Vilnius: Trakai Castle Half-Day Tour by minivan offers a convenient way to explore the area’s history. This 4-hour tour takes you directly from Vilnius to Trakai, with a guided visit to the famous Trakai Island Castle, which is the highlight of this trip. You’ll spend about two hours exploring the castle’s towers, walls, and museum exhibits, learning about its strategic importance and the Lithuanian Grand Duchy.
The tour continues with a 30-minute guided walk through the charming town of Trakai, allowing you to soak in its wooden houses and picturesque lakes. The day concludes with a scenic drive back to Vilnius, where the tour ends near the Vilnius Cathedral.
What sets this tour apart? Its focus on history and culture, with a knowledgeable guide bringing the past alive. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want a rundown without too much physical activity. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the well-organized itinerary. Some travelers note that it’s a good value for the inclusion of both castle and town visits.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you prefer a structured, informative experience that covers the highlights without the dips into adventure.
3. From Kaunas: Rumsiskes open air museum and Trakai castle
Looking for a full day of Lithuanian culture? The From Kaunas: Rumsiskes open air museum and Trakai castle tour combines two of Lithuania’s most scenic and cultural sites. Over 7 hours, you’ll start with a visit to the Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum, where traditional farmsteads, barns, and craft demonstrations showcase rural life through centuries. It’s a fascinating look at Lithuania’s folk traditions, with plenty of opportunities to try local foods and participate in craft workshops.
Afterward, the tour continues to Trakai, where you’ll explore the legendary castle and enjoy a boat ride across the lakes, passing by scenic islands and the famous Užutrakis Manor. The trip wraps up with insights into Lithuania’s historical identity and a chance to relax in a peaceful setting.
This tour is ideal for history buffs and culture seekers who want a thorough look at Lithuanian rural and medieval life. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and the richness of the cultural storytelling. The boat ride adds a special touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a deep dive into Lithuanian traditions combined with scenic castle views.
4. Trakai: Private tour Kybyns Cooking Lesson
For a hands-on experience, the Trakai: Private tour Kybyns Cooking Lesson immerses you in Lithuanian culinary tradition. In this 1-hour private session, you’ll learn how to prepare kybyns—traditional Karaismian filled pastries—inside a cozy Karaites home. The host is a representative of the community, sharing stories and secrets about their heritage while guiding you through the dough-rolling process.
This tour offers more than just cooking; it’s a cultural exchange. You’ll learn about the Karaites’ history in Lithuania, their customs, and how kybyns are made from scratch. Afterward, you get to taste your creations, making it a memorable and delicious cultural experience.
The tour is best suited for food lovers who want an authentic, intimate activity with personalized attention. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and the unique insight into Karaites traditions.
Bottom Line: If food and culture interest you, this private kybyns lesson offers a tasty, genuine taste of Trakai’s multicultural heritage.
5. From Vilnius: tour to Trakai with kybynai tasting
This 4-hour private tour combines classic sightseeing with a culinary twist. After being picked up in Vilnius, you’ll visit the insular Trakai Castle, walking through its towers and walls with a guide providing rich history. Then, enjoy a relaxed, local lunch featuring kybynai, the Lithuanian version of savory pastries filled with meat or potatoes.
The tour offers a balanced experience—cultural exploration paired with authentic taste testing. Travelers appreciate this tour for its flexibility and the opportunity to learn about Lithuanian food traditions in a friendly setting. It’s especially good for those who want a quick but meaningful insight into Trakai’s past and present.
Bottom Line: A great option for travelers wanting a combination of castle sightseeing and enjoying local cuisine without a long day trip.
6. Trakai: Countryside Bike Tour with Local Guide
If exploring on two wheels sounds appealing, the Countryside Bike Tour is a delightful way to see Trakai’s natural beauty. This 30-minute guided ride takes you through forests, lakes, and villages, revealing the region’s agricultural traditions and historic homesteads.
You’ll pedal past scenic islands and local markets, sampling Lithuanian treats made from regional ingredients. The guide shares stories about local life, making it a more personal experience than a typical sightseeing tour. The route is suitable for most fitness levels, and the focus is on scenery, local culture, and food.
What makes this tour stand out? Its relaxed pace and the chance to immerse yourself directly in the countryside atmosphere. Reviewers mention how peaceful and charming it is, especially in good weather.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting an authentic, intimate glimpse of Trakai’s rural landscape.
7. Trakai: Lake Galvė Boat Tour
For a relaxing, scenic experience, the Lake Galvė Boat Tour offers a different perspective of Trakai’s landscapes. This day-long adventure involves gliding across Lake Galvė, passing by the famous Trakai Island Castle, Užutrakis Manor, and other scenic islands. The boat trip lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes, with options for private rentals.
After the cruise, you can explore the castle museum or enjoy some local kibinai pastries in the town. The views of the castle from the water are iconic and perfect for photos. The boat tour is suitable for all ages and provides a leisurely way to see the lakeside scenery.
Reviewers note the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, although some mention the tours are weather-dependent. It’s a great choice if you prefer relaxing sightseeing over walking or active pursuits.
Bottom Line: A scenic, laid-back way to experience Trakai’s lakeside beauty from the water.
8. Trakai: Scenic Lake Vilkokšnis Flight Tour
For a quick but memorable thrill, the Scenic Lake Vilkokšnis Flight Tour offers a 10-minute aerial glimpse of Trakai’s lakes and forests. This short flight takes you over the sources of the Verknė River, revealing the patchwork of ravines, hills, and scattered pine trees that define the landscape.
It’s an ideal option for those on a tight schedule or seeking a feel-good adrenaline rush. The pilots are experienced, and the views are stunning—perfect for photos or just enjoying the sensation of flying. Keep in mind, the flight duration is brief, but the scenery is unforgettable.
Reviewers describe the experience as “joyful” and “beautiful,” noting that it’s a perfect add-on to other activities or a quick highlight for those who love flying.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, scenic thrill with outstanding panoramic views of Trakai’s lakes and forests.
9. Vilnius-Trakai: Private Alpaca Farm Tour
Last but not least, the Alpaca Farm Tour offers a charming countryside outing. In about 2 hours, you’ll be picked up in Vilnius and taken to a peaceful alpaca farm near Trakai. Here, you’ll get to feed the adorable animals, learn about their personalities, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the rural landscape.
Personal interaction with the alpacas makes this a wonderful choice for families or animal lovers. The guide shares insights into the quirky behaviors of these unique creatures, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for photos.
This tour is affordable at around $41 per person and provides a relaxing, intimate experience that offers a different kind of connection with Lithuanian countryside life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for animal enthusiasts or those seeking a gentle, memorable encounter with nature.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Trakai
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. Adventure seekers will love the hot air balloon ride or the scenic flight, while history lovers should opt for the castle tours—either the guided half-day or the full-day cultural experience. For a hands-on cultural encounter, the kybyns cooking lesson is unbeatable. If you prefer relaxing scenery, the boat tour offers a peaceful way to enjoy Lake Galvė, and the bike tour suits active travelers eager to pedal through the countryside.
Booking early is wise, especially for the popular balloon rides and private experiences. Check availability and weather conditions beforehand, as these can influence your plans.
Final Thoughts
From soaring above Trakai in a hot air balloon to tasting traditional kybyns in a local home, this list offers diverse ways to experience Lithuania’s lakeside jewel. For a truly memorable trip, consider combining a sky-high adventure with a cultural or culinary activity—imagine floating over the castle and ending your day with a hands-on cooking class.
Whether you’re after a quick photo op, a deep dive into local traditions, or an adrenaline rush, Trakai’s tours are well worth planning ahead for. Book early, and you’ll be sure to make the most of this enchanting town’s many delights.
