Discovering the Charms of Šiauliai: A 4-Day Adventure

Discover Šiauliai, Lithuania: Where family fun meets Eastern European charm!

19 July 2023

Šiauliai, Lithuania offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a range of attractions and activities. Start your trip by exploring the fascinating Hill of Crosses, a symbol of national resistance, history, and faith. Then, head to the Šiauliai City Park, where you can enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and even go boating on the lake. Lastly, don't miss the Šiauliai City Museum, offering educational exhibits and interactive displays for kids of all ages to learn about the city's rich cultural heritage.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Šiauliai's Hidden Gems

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the charming Hotel Šiauliai, where the rooms are cozy and the pancakes are divine.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the city's old town, admiring the colorful buildings and quaint cobblestone streets.
  • Discover the fascinating history of Šiauliai at the Šiauliai Aušros Museum, where exhibits range from ancient artifacts to quirky Soviet memorabilia.
  • Feeling peckish? Grab a bite at Senamiestis restaurant, known for its mouthwatering traditional Lithuanian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
  • Visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, just a short drive from the city, and be awed by the thousands of crosses standing tall as an enduring symbol of faith and resistance.
  • Wrap up your day by enjoying a glass of local beer at the trendy Šiaulinis Beer Bar, where craft brews flow like the conversations of locals.
Day 2

Adventures in Nature

  • Rise early and have breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for a day of outdoor exploration.
  • Embark on a hiking adventure in Žemaitija National Park, surrounded by lush forests, mesmerizing lakes, and enchanting wildlife.
  • Picnic by Lake Plateliai and soak in the tranquil ambiance, as the gentle breeze whispers through the trees.
  • Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ilgis, known for its sandy beaches and pristine serenity.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Varniai Manor Restaurant, located in an elegant 19th-century manor and serving up delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
  • End the day with a leisurely bicycle ride along the Šiauliai Bike Path, admiring the stunning landscapes and breathing in the fresh countryside air.
Day 3

Cultural Delights

  • Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel, energizing yourself for a day of cultural immersion.
  • Explore the St. George Parish Church, an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate frescoes and breathtaking stained glass windows.
  • Discover the world of art at the Šiauliai Art Gallery, where contemporary masterpieces and thought-provoking installations captivate your senses.
  • Indulge in a delightful lunch at Senasis Ukmergės Gatvės Restoranas, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Lithuanian dishes with a modern twist.
  • Wander through the Romainiai Sculpture Park, where whimsical works of art and sculptures breathe life into the surroundings.
  • End the day on a sweet note at Zelieriai Chocolate Factory, where you can savor handmade chocolates and even learn the art of chocolate making.
Day 4

Uncovering Šiauliai's Treasures

  • Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, knowing that you are about to uncover Šiauliai's hidden treasures.
  • Explore the Šiauliai Catholic Cemetery, an enchanting final resting place filled with stunning tombstones and symbolic memorials.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of sports at the Šiauliai Arena, home to the legendary Šiauliai basketball team.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Stora Antis, a charming restaurant with a quirky interior and a menu that boasts mouthwatering international dishes.
  • Browse the local markets for unique souvenirs and fresh produce, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and interacting with friendly locals.
  • Bid farewell to Šiauliai with a delightful dinner at the elegant Restaurant 55, where gourmet cuisine and impeccable service combine to create an unforgettable dining experience.

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.

More travel plans

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.

Discover Šiauliai: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

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.

Šiauliai: A Journey through History, Nature, and Adventure

Šiauliai in Lithuania promises an engaging family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Explore the fascinating Hill of Crosses, a spiritual site adorned with thousands of crosses, offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience for all ages. Enjoy recreational activities at the nearby Rėkyva Lake, where families can indulge in boating, fishing, and picnicking amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Romantic Day Trip to Enchanting Šiauliai

Visit the Hill of Crosses, an iconic pilgrimage site featuring thousands of crosses from around the world standing on a small mound. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the picturesque pedestrian street of Vilniaus and indulge in delicious Lithuanian cuisine at the cozy cafes and restaurants. Take a short day trip to the nearby Raudonė Castle, a magnificent Gothic-style fortress surrounded by a beautiful park perfect for a romantic picnic.