If the road ever takes you to Lithuania, don’t miss the chance to visit a true gem, some 28 km West of Vilnius. Trakai is a dream in any season, whether spring/summer with nice weather, fall with golden leaves vibes, or winter when the area is under the snow.
Trakai Castle
Trakai Castle is a fairy-tale castle on an island in the magical land of Lithuania. It’s actually a red brick, 14th-century residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, rebuilt in 1951, and open to the public today for the best day trip.
You can get a train (2,80 euros for a half-hour drive) or a bus from Vilnius. From the station, you walk into the city, where you can enjoy the scenery, the lake, and the colorful wooden houses. The road leads you to the Castle. You’ll know you’re there by seeing many tourists, souvenir shops, and a dock with cute restaurants. Still, as you step onto a bridge leading to the Castle, it feels like you’re stepping into a different world.
Once you get your tickets at the entrance (you can also get them online), you can explore a different time in history, the museum’s many collections, take silly photos in the Castle’s courtyard or make up stories with your friends.
When I visited, a part of the castle was under construction, so we didn’t even get to see all of it, but we had so much fun, and the place is just beautiful from an art/architecture standpoint.
There’s an app you can download, as well, if you want an audio tour or are unable to get a guide. The audio guide is very elaborate and interesting, going into many details of the Castle’s history.
A Day in Trakai
But, your visit to Trakai shouldn’t stop at the Castle alone. Take your time exploring the town! The area is gorgeous for simply enjoying the walk around.
Another place to visit is a restaurant called Kybynlar, where you can try the traditional dish called kibinas. It is a pastry with lamb or beef filling, but there are also other options, if you don’t want meat, and it is baked in the oven. Our ESN buddy told us that here, they usually eat kibinai with chicken broth, but even on its own, it’s delicious!
After satisfying your appetite, a walk in some fresh air is exactly what you need. While you’re at it, you can discuss what house is your favorite. I know we did this, and it was so fun imagining us living in those beautiful cottages, having such captivating surroundings to wake up to every day.
If you’re looking for more fun places, don’t skip the chocolate factory. We had a chocolate-making class, which I don’t know the usual schedule for, but if you get the chance, do it! The guy leading the class was hilarious.
If I can direct you to one more place in Trakai, I would suggest you visit a Georgian restaurant called Argo. It has the most delicious food, the best service, and the coziest interior – a perfect way to end a day before heading back to the train station.
Is Trakai Already on Your Bucket List?
The photos don’t even do it justice, but trust me, you want to put Trakai on your bucket list. It is a truly magical place, and I felt so rested, recharged, and happy when I visited.
Okay, thanks, bye!
My Little Hawk 
Wow, what a great place to visit. That chocolate factory in particular sounds like so much fun.
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It really is! I’d highly recommend it!
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