The most popular day trip from Vilnius, Trakai is a small Lithuanian town that makes a big impression—a bright red castle on a small island in a lake will do that. While the iconic Trakai Island Castle always comes first among the things to do in Trakai, visitors of all ages can have just as much fun admiring and exploring the lakes that surround the town. That said, local history is a large part of Trakai’s appeal, making it a perfect match for travelers curious about Lithuania’s past.
An argument can be made that Trakai is beautiful no matter the season, but there are clear advantages to visiting during the warmer months from May to September. The weather this time of year is perfect for lots of outdoor sightseeing, with the lake a prime spot for leisurely boat rides. The arrival of summer also brings the Trakai Town Festival in early June, with the setup of the Town Hall Market as well as a concert and other cultural events.
You can take the bus or train from Vilnius to Trakai, but there is no local public transit in Trakai itself. Expect a fairly long walk once you arrive—Trakai Island Castle is on the far side of town, roughly 40 minutes from the train station and 30 minutes from the bus station. Getting around Trakai by car is much simpler until you need to find somewhere to park, as the town mostly only has street parking.
A visit to Trakai isn’t complete without trying kybyn, traditional meat-filled pastries that are closely associated with the town thanks to Trakai’s Karaite community. Kybyn, also spelled kibinai, are easy to find in Trakai, with most casual eateries offering them. Keep your eyes peeled for events that also celebrate Trakai’s diverse population, such as the Trakai Land Polish Culture Festival and the Minorities Festival.
