Šiauliai, Lithuania
Šiauliai is the fourth largest city in Lithuania, known for its famous Hill of Crosses where visitors can see numerous crucifixes and wooden statues. The city also offers museums, galleries, parks, and various cultural events.
Trip to Šiauliai, Lithuania
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Upon your arrival to Šiauliai, check-in to your hotel and relax for a bit. In the afternoon, begin your city tour by visiting the Choral Synagogue, the last remaining synagogue in the city. After that, head to the Museum of Šiauliai, where you can learn about the city’s history and culture. End the day with a stroll around the beautiful Didždvario pond.
Day 2: Hill of Crosses
Visit the famous Hill of Crosses, 12 kilometers north of Šiauliai, one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in Lithuania. The hill is covered with thousands of crosses, each placed by its visitors for various reasons. After visiting the Hill of Crosses, head back to Šiauliai for dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants.
Day 3: The Sundial
Start your day with a visit to the Sundial at the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, the largest church in Šiauliai. The sundial is located on the wall of the church and tells the time based on the position of the sun. Take a walk around the church and enjoy the beautiful architecture. Continue your visit with a trip to the Art Gallery, which showcases a variety of contemporary and historical art from Lithuania and from all over the world.
Day 4: Riga, Latvia
Take a day trip to Latvia’s capital city, Riga, which is just 140 kilometers away from Šiauliai. Riga is renowned for its beautiful architecture, buzzing streets, and rich history, and is well worth a visit. Stroll through the historic Old Town, visit the Riga Castle and Art Museum, and sample some of the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants.
Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation
Take a day to relax and indulge in some retail therapy at the Akropolis shopping center, one of the biggest shopping centers in Šiauliai. From fashion to electronics, cosmetics to furniture, you’ll find it all here. After shopping, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the R. Šopenas Memorial Garden, a beautiful and peaceful park with various trees and shrubs.
Day 6: The Air Defence Museum of Šiauliai
Visit the Air Defence Museum, located right on the Šiauliai Air Base, which is home to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission. Explore the history of Lithuania’s Air Defence Forces, see the old planes and helicopters, and learn about NATO’s role in protecting Lithuania’s airspace. End the day with a visit to the Šiauliai Civic Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 7: Nightlife and Departure
On your last day in Šiauliai, spend the morning exploring the city on your own or visiting any attractions you may have missed before. In the evening, experience the city’s vibrant nightlife at any of the local bars or nightclubs before heading back to your hotel and preparing for your departure.
