Kaunas is a city full of surprises—from its charming Old Town to its modern cultural scene. What makes it especially appealing are the variety of tours available, catering to history lovers, art enthusiasts, or those just looking for a leisurely stroll. We’re particularly fond of the personalized experiences like the Kaunas Private Walking Tour, where guides adjust the route to your interests and even share a coffee or two. It’s a fantastic way to get an authentic feel for the city with someone who knows its ins and outs. For those with a deeper interest in Lithuania’s complex past, especially its Jewish heritage, the Guided Jewish Heritage Day Trip from Vilnius offers a respectful, thorough exploration of sites like the Ninth Fort museum and the Kovno Ghetto. And if you’re curious about the city’s mysterious side, the Old Town Ghost Tour provides a spooky, fun way to learn local legends.
Kaunas offers a diverse selection of tours suitable for different interests, schedules, and budgets. Whether you want a quick highlights tour, a deep dive into Jewish history, or a haunting story walk, this city has something for every traveler.
1. Kaunas Private Walking Tour
In my opinion, the Kaunas Private Walking Tour hits the sweet spot for visitors wanting a flexible, personalized introduction to the city. This tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours and costs approximately $108.74 for a group of up to 15 people. What makes it stand out is the guide’s focus on creating a personal connection—adjusting the itinerary to your interests and even sharing a coffee if you like. The guide will take you through Kaunas City Centre and the Old Town, revealing hidden stories behind landmarks that you might otherwise miss. The itinerary includes stops like the Park of the Musical Theater stages, the Yard Gallery, and Vienybės aikštė, where the city’s resilience is palpable through monuments and memorials. Visitors consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one review stating, “Vytenis is very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the history of Kaunas and Lithuania.” This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a private, intimate experience and want to customize their sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For a personal, flexible way to explore Kaunas with an expert who genuinely cares about your experience, this private tour offers great value and memorable moments.
2. From Vilnius: Guided Jewish Heritage Day Trip to Kaunas
If you’re interested in Lithuania’s Jewish history, this Jewish Heritage Day Trip from Vilnius is a deeply meaningful experience. The tour lasts around 8 hours and includes stops at the Kaunas Synagogue, Ninth Fort museum, and the Kovno Ghetto. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the Jewish community’s vibrant past and its tragic destruction during WWII. The tour is private, allowing for flexibility in pacing and focus, which is essential given the sensitive nature of the sites. One reviewer called their guide Cyrus “an exceptional guide—so respectful and knowledgeable about Jewish history in Lithuania during the Holocaust.” This experience is perfect for history or culture enthusiasts who want a respectful, in-depth understanding of Lithuania’s Jewish heritage. The tour’s value lies in its combination of important sites and expert narration, making complex history accessible and personal.
Bottom Line: If you want an insightful, respectful journey into Lithuania’s Jewish past, this day trip offers a comprehensive and emotionally resonant experience.
3. Kaunas : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour with a Local Guide
For a tailored introduction to Kaunas, the Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour is a fantastic choice. Lasting around 3 hours, it costs around the same as other private options and is perfect for those who want to focus on what interests them most. Led by a knowledgeable local, you’ll visit main landmarks and discover hidden corners of the city. Guests rave about guide Nomeda, who is praised for her extensive knowledge and ability to show the most beautiful spots. This tour gives you flexibility—your guide can adapt based on your interests, whether it’s architecture, local stories, or lesser-known sights. It’s an ideal pick for travelers who appreciate a personal touch and want a well-rounded view of Kaunas.
Bottom Line: A private, customizable walk with a local guide is an excellent way to get to know Kaunas intimately and at your own pace.
4. Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour
If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights, the 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour covers the city’s top attractions on foot. In just two hours, you’ll explore the Old Town, churches, and notable architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries. This tour is perfect for those who want a quick overview, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or have already visited other parts of Lithuania. Reviewers appreciate the efficient route and engaging narration, noting that it offers a good balance of history and scenery. The tour is especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a snapshot of Kaunas’s charm.
Bottom Line: For a brisk but enriching introduction, this 2-hour tour provides a solid overview of Kaunas’s historic core.
5. Kaunas: Private custom tour with a local guide
A flexible and personal option, the Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide allows you to decide what to see. With durations from 2 to 8 hours, it suits travelers who want to spend an afternoon or a whole day exploring. The guide will show you around main sights, but also recommend hidden spots and good places to eat. It’s a great choice for those who want a tailored experience and value local insights. One reviewer praised the guide for their ability to show both tourist highlights and lesser-known areas, making the tour feel exclusive and personalized. The price per person at $54 is reasonable, considering the flexibility and depth of experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a bespoke tour that adapts to your interests, this private guide offers comprehensive and personalized service.
6. Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS)
This Kaunas Old Town Tour + IX Fort Museum combines the charm of Lithuania’s historic center with a visit to one of its most significant WWII sites. This private tour lasts around 1 to 1.2 hours and costs about $57.82 for groups up to 15. You’ll explore landmarks like Kaunas Castle, St. George’s Church, and Vytautas the Great Bridge, while also learning about Lithuania’s past through stories and architecture. For groups of up to four, the bonus includes access to the IX Fort Museum, adding a powerful perspective on Lithuania’s wartime history. Tour guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to make history engaging. The tour is ideal for history buffs who want to combine city sights with a meaningful WWII museum visit.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for history enthusiasts, offering both architectural sights and WWII history, with a personal touch.
7. Kaunas: Old Town Private Ghost Tour
For those interested in the mysterious side of Kaunas, the Old Town Ghost Tour offers a 2-hour walk through the darkened streets. Limited to groups of four, this private tour uncovers legends, legends, and spooky tales of ghostly encounters and castle secrets. Led by an engaging guide, you’ll learn stories that have been passed down through generations, giving you a different perspective on the city’s history. Perfect for night owls or those who enjoy a thrill, this tour is both fun and a little chilling. Reviewers mention the guide’s storytelling skills and the eerie atmosphere that really brings the legends to life.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky way to experience Kaunas’s darker stories—ideal for fans of ghost stories and folklore.
8. Kaunas: 1 Day Self-Guided Bike Tour with Train Tickets
For active travelers, the Self-Guided Bike Tour offers a flexible way to explore Kaunas at your own pace. With train tickets from Vilnius included, you can pick between two scenic routes—cycling through the Old Town or along the Nemunas River. The tour lasts a whole day, giving plenty of time to visit main sights like Pažaislis Monastery or the Žalgiris Arena. Guests love the freedom this provides, along with the chance to see the city’s quieter neighborhoods. The only drawback is relying on your own navigation skills, but the route maps are straightforward. This option suits those looking for an independent day of sightseeing combined with a bit of exercise.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active explorers who want the flexibility of self-guided biking with the convenience of train travel.
9. Kaunas Private Tour: Love Stories
If romantic tales and secret stories appeal to you, the Love Stories Private Tour offers a 2-hour walk through Kaunas’s cozy streets. While details on reviews are limited, the focus on romantic and mysterious narratives promises an intimate, fun experience. The guide will take you through the old town, uncovering secrets and sharing stories of local love, ghosts, and hidden legends. Perfect for couples or those who enjoy storytelling, this tour adds a charming, personal touch to your visit. The private setting makes it ideal for a relaxed, personalized exploration.
Bottom Line: A delightful tour for romantics and story lovers wanting a private, cozy experience.
$481 per group up to 4
10. Tours in Kaunas Old Town
Finally, the Tours in Kaunas Old Town is a versatile offering that combines fun storytelling with sightseeing. Usually lasting around 2 hours, this guided experience covers the most iconic sights and shares tales of love, ghosts, and secrets. Led by a charismatic guide, it’s ideal for travelers who want insights with a lively, engaging tone. The tour caters to different interests, making it a good choice if you’re not quite sure what specific focus you want but want a lively overview of Kaunas’s historic heart.
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging tour suited for those who want fun stories mixed with sightseeing, perfect for a casual but memorable introduction.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When choosing among these tours, consider your schedule, budget, and interests. If you’re after an intimate, flexible experience, the private Kaunas Private Walking Tour or Private Custom Tour are excellent—especially if you want tailored insights. Interested in Lithuania’s darker or more complex history? Both the Jewish Heritage Day Trip and Old Town + IX Fort Museum offer in-depth, meaningful visits. For a quick overview, the 2-hour Sightseeing Tour is perfect—and efficient. Those seeking fun stories or spooky tales should consider the Ghost Tour. Finally, active travelers will appreciate the Bike Tour, which combines exercise with sightseeing.
Booking early is recommended during peak season, especially for private and guided tours. Always check schedules and availability, as some options are seasonal or may require advanced booking.
Final Thoughts
Kaunas offers a range of tours that suit different interests and travel styles. For those who love personal stories and flexibility, the Private Walking Tour and Custom Tour deliver personalized experiences. History buffs should consider the Jewish Heritage Day Trip or the Old Town + IX Fort Museum, which combine architecture with poignant history. If your time is limited, the 2-hour sightseeing walk offers a quick but rich overview. For those intrigued by legends and tales, the Ghost Tour brings history alive with a spooky twist, while active visitors will enjoy the Bike Tour for a full day of exploration.
No matter your style, booking your preferred tour early ensures you’ll get the best experience in this charming Lithuanian city. Once booked, all that’s left is to enjoy discovering Kaunas’s stories, secrets, and surprises firsthand.