A calm lakeside town with wooden houses and an island castle. Home to Karaim people, it hosts summer festivals and water activities on Lake Galvė.
Trakai, a small town 28 kilometers west of Vilnius, captivates visitors with its medieval Island Castle, Karaim cuisine, and Lake Galvė's calm waters. As the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Trakai invites you to step back in time, taste traditional pastries, and paddle through its lakes.
Trakai Island Castle
Trakai Island Castle, a 14th-century Gothic structure, sits on an island in Lake Galvė. You can reach the castle via a 300-meter wooden bridge, which gives you views of the surrounding waters. Inside, you'll find a museum with exhibits of furniture, china, and hunting trophies that tell the story of Lithuanian history. During summer, the castle comes alive with medieval tournaments and concerts, adding excitement to its historical atmosphere.
Discovering Karaim Culture and Cuisine
Trakai is home to the Karaims, an ethnic group brought to Lithuania in the 14th century. Their influence is evident as you walk down Karaimų Street, where colorful wooden houses display distinctive three-window facades typical of Karaim architecture. Don't miss trying kibinai, a traditional Karaim pastry filled with minced meat or vegetables. You can taste this local specialty at restaurants like KYBYNLAR, where they prepare kibinai using time-honored methods.
Enjoying Trakai's Lakes and Nature
The Trakai region encompasses over 200 lakes, with Lake Galvė being the largest and deepest. You can rent a boat or paddleboat to explore the lake's 21 islands, or join a yacht cruise for a more relaxed experience. For a bird's-eye view of Trakai's landscape, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the lakes and forests.
Getting to Trakai from Vilnius
Traveling to Trakai from Vilnius is easy and quick. Buses leave from Vilnius Bus Station at least twice an hour, and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes. If you prefer trains, regular services connect Vilnius to Trakai. You can check schedules and book tickets online. Driving is another option, with the trip taking approximately 30 minutes on well-maintained roads.
Other Attractions in Trakai
While the Island Castle is Trakai's centerpiece, the town has several other interesting sites. Visit the ruins of the Peninsula Castle, which predates its island counterpart and played a crucial role in defending the Grand Duchy. The 15th-century Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary houses a rich Baroque altar and a collection of ecclesiastical art. To learn more about Karaim history, visit the Karaites Ethnographic Museum, which provides insights into this community's culture and traditions.
