Discover Šiauliai: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Discover the charm of Šiauliai without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the unique Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site with over 100,000 crosses, just outside of Šiauliai. Wander through the charming Old Town, complete with a variety of cafes and restaurants to experience authentic Lithuanian cuisine. Stay in a budget-friendly hostel, such as Hostel Šiauliai, to save money while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into the Rūta Hotel and take advantage of its prime location in the old town
  • Stroll through the charming streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes
  • Explore the Hill of Crosses, a stunning and unique pilgrimage site just a short drive away
  • Enjoy traditional Lithuanian cuisine at the cozy Žalias Ratas restaurant
  • Grab a drink at the trendy Simpatija bar before settling in for the night
Day 2

Museum and Shopping Day

  • Visit the Šiauliai Aušros Museum, which features fascinating exhibits on the city's history and culture
  • Buy souvenirs and local crafts at the bustling Šiauliai Central Market
  • Check out the modern Saulės Miestas shopping center for a more upscale shopping experience
  • Have lunch at the trendy Cafeteria Daktaras, which offers fresh and healthy options
  • Relax at the Turgaus park before heading to Suoja Brewery for a tasty Lithuanian beer
Day 3

Nature and Outdoor Activities

  • Hike or bike through the scenic Šiauliai Forest Park
  • Visit the impressive St. George's Church and the nearby Botanical Garden
  • Have a picnic in the tranquil Žaliasis Kanalas Park
  • Go kayaking or fishing at the nearby Rėkyva Lake
  • Enjoy dinner at the rustic and cozy Senojo Kelio Dvaras tavern
Day 4

Day Trip to Klaipėda

  • Take a day trip to the coastal city of Klaipėda, just over an hour away by car or train
  • Visit the picturesque Old Town filled with cobbled streets, charming German architecture, and quirky sculptures
  • Check out the beautiful Amber Museum and learn about the history and significance of this precious gemstone
  • Enjoy lunch at the cozy and stylish Memelio Krautuve restaurant, which offers fresh seafood and local specialties
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the long and sandy Baltic Beach before heading back to Šiauliai
Day 5

Art and Culture

  • Visit the Šiauliai Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local and national artists
  • Check out the unique architecture of the Šiauliai Choral Synagogue, one of the few surviving wooden synagogues in Eastern Europe
  • Learn about Lithuanian folk traditions at the nearby Radviliškis Museum
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at the elegant and romantic Šraggalvė Manor, which offers exquisite cuisine and a serene setting
  • End the night with drinks at the lively and colorful Loftas bar before packing up for departure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Šiauliai by plane is to fly into Vilnius International Airport and then take a direct bus or taxi to Šiauliai, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Car

The best way to get to Šiauliai by car is to drive from Vilnius, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. The route is well-marked and there are good road conditions.

Train

Although there are some train routes in Lithuania, there is no direct train to Šiauliai. Therefore, it is not recommended to travel to Šiauliai by train.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Šiauliai, as it is located inland. Therefore, it is not recommended to travel to Šiauliai by boat.

Bus

The best way to get to Šiauliai by bus is to take a direct bus from Vilnius, which departs regularly and takes approximately 2-3 hours. There are also direct buses from Riga, Latvia and Tallinn, Estonia.

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The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure in Šiauliai

A trip to Šiauliai, Lithuania would be a unique and enriching experience for any tourist interested in history and culture. The city's most famous attraction is the Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of Lithuanian resistance to oppression over the centuries. Visitors can also explore the historic city center and enjoy authentic Lithuanian cuisine, such as cepelinai dumplings and šaltibarščiai cold soup.

Šiauliai, Lithuania: The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure

A visit to Šiauliai, Lithuania as a tourist promises an exciting experience. Tourists can explore the unusual Hill of Crosses, an important pilgrimage site that is dotted with countless crosses. Moreover, the city is home to numerous museums that delve into Lithuania's rich cultural and historical heritage, including the Šiauliai Ausros Museum and the Šiauliai Municipal Museum. Additionally, visitors can hike through the nearby Ginkgai Forest Reserve, which offers a picturesque backdrop for walks and picnics.

Šiauliai Delights: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Šiauliai, Lithuania is a family-friendly destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, an awe-inspiring pilgrimage site adorned with thousands of intricately crafted crosses. Explore the city's charming old town, filled with vibrant street art, quaint shops, and delightful cafes, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll with the family. Finally, spend a day at the Žaliakalnis Fun Park, where your kids can enjoy thrilling rides, go-karting, and mini-golf, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.

Historic and Cultural Gems of Šiauliai, Lithuania

Šiauliai, Lithuania is an ideal destination for history buffs seeking to explore the country's ancient roots. The city boasts a unique attraction in the Hill of Crosses, which features thousands of crosses deposited here over the years. Travelers can also learn about Lithuania's rich cultural heritage by visiting the Saulės Gallery, ÷icėnai Museum or the Aukstikalnis mound, which offer fascinating insights into the country's artistic and religious traditions.