Best Castles in Lithuania: 13 Must-Visit Lithuania Castles

Planning your trip to the Baltic States and wondering how to visit the best castles in Lithuania?

Lithuania is home to some of the most gorgeous castles in Europe – each with their own history and charm. Whether you’re interested in mediaeval fortresses, Renaissance palaces, or Baroque manors, you will find them all in Lithuania. 

I absolutely adore the Baltic States – and have visited Lithuania on two separate occasions. There’s so much to explore in this underrated country. In this article, I tell you about 13 must-visit fairytale castles in Lithuania 

Let’s get started and discover the Lithuanian castles. Let’s go!

Where to See the Best Lithuanian Castles

If you’re a fan of history and architecture, you’ll adore these stunning Lithuania castles, check out which ones made it to the shortlist below. The Baltic states are blessed with an abundance of ancient monuments, for starters, all three nations have a UNESCO-listed historical capital.

If you’re after beautiful pictures of Lithuania with castles, you’ll find them here! Scroll through and check out these beautiful buildings, they look like they’ve been plucked straight from a fairytale!

Best Castles in Lithuania

• Trakai Island Castle
• Kaunas Castle
• Birzai Castle
• Siesikai Castle
• Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
• Vilnius Castle
• Medininkai Castle
• Panemune Castle
• Klaipeda Castle or Memelburg 
• Norviliskes Castle
• Old Trakai Mond
• Dubingiai Castle
• Siesikai Castle
• Raudondvaris Castle
• Raudonė Castle

How Many Castles in Lithuania?

According to research, Lithuania has over 800 monumental buildings, this number is a mix of manors (the biggest portion), forts and of course, castle ruins, all set against the stunning Lithuanian countryside!

Early castles in Lithuania date back to the wooden hillforts of the Bronze Age – none of them remain, aside from the castle hills. The castles you can see in Lithuania today mostly date from medieval times when bricks started to be used. Some of these are ruins, and others, like Trakai, have been extensively reconstructed.

I definitely recommend exploring at least a few from this list and learning about their storied past as part of your Lithuanian itinerary. 

The 13 Best Castles in Lithuania

Castles in Lithuania are not only beautiful – they also tell fascinating stories of Lithuania’s turbulent past. 

So, sit back as we unveil the 15 of the most iconic and famous buildings in Lithuania that you should visit on your next trip.

1. Trakai Island Castle

If are you looking for the most famous castle in the country, then don’t miss Trakai Island Castle! 

This iconic Lithuanian castle is a mediaeval fortress. It’s surrounded by the tranquil waters of Lake Galvė –  creating a fairy-tale-like scenery. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk across the drawbridge and enter the castle’s red-brick walls!

This old Trakai Castle in Lithuania has a long and rich history, dating back to the 14th century. It was once the home of Lithuanian kings and nobles, and the scene of many important events. 

What you see today is mostly a reconstruction – if you look carefully, you can see the different colour bricks used on the towers! Today, it houses a museum that displays artefacts and stories about Lithuania’s past, culture, and the castle’s role in it.

The location of this castle near Vilnius makes it an easy day trip from the nation’s capital. 

Trakai Castle opening times vary throughout the year, but if you visit in the winter months, chances are the lake will be frozen and you can skate on it!

Location: Karaimų g. 43C, 21104 Trakai, Lithuania

Opening Times: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm – Monday to Sunday (Summer Season) | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Tuesday to Sunday (Winter Season)

2. Kaunas Castle

If you love history and culture, then I recommend Kaunas Castle – another one of the most iconic Lithuania landmarks. 

This magnificent red-brick castle dates back to the 14th century when it was a vital defence against invaders. It has been rebuilt and enlarged many times over the years, and now it stands proudly at the junction of two beautiful rivers.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk around the castle grounds, exploring the impregnable walls and tower. You’ll also find a museum inside the castle, where you can see relics and artefacts from a bygone era.

Don’t miss the chance to climb up to the observation points, where you can enjoy fabulous views of the city and the landscape beyond.

Location: Pilies g. 17, 44275 Kaunas, Lithuania

Opening Times: Closed – Sunday to Monday | 10:00 am – 6:00 am – Tuesday to Friday | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Saturday

3. Birzai Castle

Biržai Castle is a beautiful castle built in the 1500s to defend the Biržai Duchy from invaders from the north. It was strategically placed so it could control the trade and the region.

Historically, the castle had been destroyed by the Swedes, and then rebuilt – twice! Just like the first two Lithuania castles I’ve listed so far, the version you see today has been fully restored and brought back to life. 

The white arched and alcoved facade is one of the most striking features here and sat amongst the well-manicured lawn on the waterfront, it has a look of regality. 

The castle also has an open-air museum, where you can learn about its history and how people once lived.

Location: J, Radvilos g. 3, 41175 Biržai, Lithuania

Opening Times: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm – Sunday | Closed – Monday | 10:00 am – 4:30 pm – Tuesday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm – Wednesday to Saturday

4. Siesikai Castle

Siesikai Castle, originally constructed in the 16th century in the Renaissance architectural style, has seen numerous transformations throughout its history.

Each modification reflects the architectural trends of its time, giving the castle a unique charm and character.

Siesikai Castle is an impressive structure that just oozes timeless grandeur. Its façade is a mix of Renaissance and other architectural styles, with all these intricate details that tell the castle’s fascinating history.

And you know what? Despite all the advancements, the original charm of the 16th-century design still shines through.

Inside, the rooms are filled with historical charm – look out for the unique ceilings! They are filled with antique furniture to help bring the castle to life.

Location: Daugalių kaimas, 1, 20325, Lithuania

Opening Times: Temporarily closed for renovation

Juliux, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

5. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

This beautiful palace was once home to Lithuanian royalty and a hub of political activity – a really historical palace isn’t it?

Today, it’s recognised as one of the most famous landmarks in Lithuania and houses an onsite museum where you can discover the country’s fascinating past and discover its artistic treasures.

Explore the palace’s beautiful rooms, decorated in different styles from Gothic to Baroque. 

You’ll also see amazing exhibits that tell the stories of Lithuania’s people and culture.

Location: Katedros a. 4, 01143 Vilnius, Lithuania

Opening Times: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm – Sunday to Wednesday | 10:00 am – 8:00 pm – Thursday to Saturday

6. Vilnius Castle

If you’re looking for a stunning sight in the nation’s capital, then don’t miss Vilnius Castle. 

This majestic tower sits on top of a hill – overlooking the city and the river – looking down on the city.  It’s a piece of history that helps tell the story of Vilnius and Lithuania.

Vilnius castle was built in the 14th century as a fortress to protect the city from invaders. It survived many battles and wars, but only the Gediminas Tower remains today. You can climb up the tower and see the amazing views of the Old Town and the Neris River.

At Castle Hill, you’ll also find the National Museum of Lithuania, where you can learn more about the country’s culture and heritage. You’ll find historical artefacts and exhibitions that showcase Lithuania’s past and present. 

It’s a great way to discover more about this beautiful country and its people.

Location: Arsenalo g. 5, 01143 Vilnius, Lithuania

Opening Times: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm – Monday to Sunday

7. Medininkai Castle

Are you fond of history, with a hint of mystery? Then you’ll enjoy Medininkai Castle.

This mediaeval fortress was built in the 14th century and once protected the country from invaders. The grounds surrounding this fortress definitely saw many battles and events that helped shape Lithuania’s history.

Now, Medininkai Castle has been restored to its former glory. The most striking feature is the gigantic req bricked square tower in one corner. Outside the castle walls, you’ll be able to see the double defensive ditches – once they were filled with water creating a moat around the castle. 

The castle sits within the lush green landscape and is one of the largest castle complexes in central and eastern Europe. 

Location: Šv. Kazimiero g. 2, 13192 Medininkai, Lithuania

Opening Times: Closed – Monday and Tuesday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm – Wednesday to Sunday

Kontis Šatūnas, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

8. Panemune Castle

Panemunė Castle is a stunning monument located on the beautiful Nemunas River near Vytėnai. It was built in the 1600s as a fortress, but it changed a lot over time. Did you know that it was once a key spot for trade and defence in the region?

Panemunė Castle has been restored and features a mix of greyish-blue and white bricks giving its iconic towers their signature striped look. 

Sat within the forest, and against the river, it really does look like a fairytale castle. It wouldn’t look out of place if Rapunzel was sitting and looking out of that tower. 

You can explore the inside of the castle and the grounds of this impressive complex.

Location: Panemunės, 74464 Pilis I, Lithuania

Opening Times: Closed – Monday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm – Tuesday to Sunday

9. Klaipeda Castle / Memelburg Castle

This castle was originally built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century and served as a strategic stronghold for centuries. If you look back at any historical document – it was quite something in its heyday. 

Today, all that remains from the outside are the mound where it once stood, some of the walls and an entranceway to the museum (which is housed inside the mound).

Inside Klaipeda Castle Museum you can learn more about the history of the city and its people. You’ll see exhibits of ancient artefacts here. You’ll also discover how Klaipeda became a major port and trading hub on the Baltic Sea.

There is talk of reconstruction for parts of the castle – namely the tower as it’s so well documented, however, this has not been confirmed yet as to when and if it’s happening. 

Location: Priešpilio g. 2, 91240 Klaipėda, Lithuania

Opening Times: Closed – Sunday and Monday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm – Tuesday to Saturday

10. Norviliskes Castle

Norviliškės Castle, also known as Norviliškės Monastery, is a masterpiece of 16th-century fortified Renaissance architecture. 

What makes this castle special is its location. It’s in the southeasternmost part of Lithuania, within the Dieveniškės Loop, right next to the Lithuanian-Belarusian border. That means it’s on the edge of the European Union, giving it a unique historical and geopolitical significance. 

Inside, you’ll find arcaded walkways and various outbuildings. The most striking view of from the front where you’ll see the two rotund towers framing either side of the building. It’s set amongst pine woodland making this one of the most photogenic castles on this list. 

Location: Norviliškės, 17145, Lithuania

Opening Times: At the time of writing, the castle is closed to access

Ampyx, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

11. Dubingiai Castle

Dubingiai Castle is the largest castle site in Lithuania. It’s often referred to as simply Castle Hill. Although today, a castle no longer stands here, what you will find are the fortifications and foundations of it scattered across this green forested expanse surrounded by a lake. It’s beautiful!

The castle was built by Vytautas, the Grand Duke of Lithuania, in the early 15th century on an island in Lake Asveja. He wanted to protect Vilnius, the capital city, from the enemies in Livonia. Dubingiai Castle was the home of the Radziwiłłs for many years until they moved to Biržai Castle. 

Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed by the Polish–Swedish wars and was taken away from Bogusław Radziwiłł, who betrayed his king – an interesting history right?

Location:  Dubingių pilies griuvėsiai, k. 14a,, 2812, 33262 Žalktynė, Lithuania

Opening Times: 24 hours – Monday to Sunday

12. Raudondvaris Castle

This stately castle was built in the 17th century and combines Gothic and Renaissance styles. Historically, it was a pagan fortress that resisted the Teutonic Knights in 1392. 

Now, it is a museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Lithuania. You can wander around the extensive grounds and interior. Inside you’ll find beautiful frescoes, sculptures, paintings and furniture that decorate the castle.

The castle’s most prominent feature is the rotund tower that dominates one end of the building. 

Location: Pilies tak. 1, 54127 Raudondvaris, Lithuania

Opening Times: Closed – Sunday and Monday | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm – Tuesday to Friday | 8:00 am – 4:45 pm – Saturday

13. Raudonė Castle

This beautiful red-brick Lithuania castle dates back to the 19th century. Originally built as a residential castle. This is one of the most visually striking castles on this list. Today it’s used as a public school. 

Raudonė Castle is located on the bank of the Nemunas River and is surrounded by gorgeous green scenery.

During the tourist season (school holidays) you can visit the castle more extensively and explore the castle’s grounds, and interior and even climb the impressive 35-meter tower!

Location: Pilies g. 1, 74456 Raudonė, Lithuania

Opening Times: 15th of April to 15th of November, Daily between 10.00 am – 4.00 pm

Fairytale Castles in Lithuania – FAQs

Now that you’ve learned about these charming Lithuanian castles, here are some answers to questions to help plan your trip.

Which of These  Castles in Lithuania Are You Going to Visit?

So, which of these gorgeous castles in Lithuania are top of your list? 

Whether you want to explore history, architecture, or scenery, this selection of Lithuanian castles covers it all. 

I’ve already been to Lithuania twice, but I’ll certainly be back again to explore more of this stunning yet underrated country and add some new fairytale castles in Lithuania to this list!

If you’re looking for more inspiration about travel in the Baltic States, then check out these other great articles:

• 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltics
• Exploring The Art Nouveau District, Riga
• 33 Amazing Things To Do in Tallinn
• The Best Riga in 3 Days Itinerary 
• Estonia’s Street Art Capital of Tartu
• The Abandoned Amusement Park in Elektrenai, Lithuania