Trakai Castle – Trakai, Lithuania is undoubtedly a special place for photography lovers. Located west of Vilnius, the capital of the country. Get ready for this fairytale adventure, as this ancient ducal palace rises from an island in the middle of a Lithuanian lake.
Things to do
Admire the Trakai Castle Architecture
This is known outside the Baltic states as an extremely photogenic place, due to its incredible architecture and construction. Certainly, the 14th-century Trakai Castle has beautiful red-capped towers that are reflected in the lake, which acts as a natural moat. In addition, this castle requires Rapunzel to come and release his hair from the top, with its red brick superstructure that creates an impression of elegance and home. Without a doubt, it is an extremely wonderful sight.
The Gallery
While its multiple exterior windows can have a defensive look, you should not forget to walk inside its beautiful gallery. Certainly, this one exclaims in every sense an atmosphere of the great country mansion that will leave you open mouth. Definitely a tour that you can not miss.
Galvé Lake
Trakai Castle has undoubtedly its own interest, but another thing that makes it so attractive is its location. This is located on a small island in the beautiful Glavé Lake. This castle is perfect for photographing because the beauty of the lake, its ducks, the drawbridge and the boats are conspired to take a perfect snapshot.
Skate ride
Many people when they visit Trakai Castle usually rent a skate (a small boat with pedals). In it, they cross the lake and enjoy a wonderful view. As well, choose a spectacular spot for your photographs and enjoy the colorful atmosphere with all its fairytale decorations that accompany it.
How to get there
The closest airport to Trakai Castle is Vilnius Airport (VNO). Most Airlines will take you directly to Vilnius Airport. You can take a taxi from outside the airport and its a 30-minute drive to Trakai Castle. You can take a bus from Vilnius Airport to Stotis during 30-minute and then you have to take another bus from Stotis to Trakai during the other 30-minute. Then you have to take a taxi from outside the bus stop to Trakai Castle during 3-minute.
When to go
The weather is more comfortable between Easter and September, although minimums below the freezing point are common in April.
How long do I go for
It is recommended to stay approximately 3 to 4 days or in any case a weekend to fully enjoy your trip.
Opening and Closing Hours
- May – September: Mon to Sun from 10 a.m. at 7 p.m.
- October: Tue to Sun from 10 a.m. at 6 p.m. Closed Monday.
- November – February: Tue to Sun from 10 a.m. at 5 p.m. Closed Monday.
- March – April: Tue to Sun from 10 a.m. at 6 p.m. Closed Monday.
Planning
Remember to wear comfortable clothes to enjoy the whole trip without discomfort. In addition, there are multiple varieties of restaurants with good views in front of the castle, one of them is UAB Kibinu Salis. The best of Lithuania are the accessible prices. You can not miss the kybyn or kibinai, some dumplings stuffed with meat typical of Caraita gastronomy. You can find these anywhere.
Inside information
Remember to book your plane ticket in advance to make your trip more pleasant. Don’t forget your camera so you don’t miss anything about this place. There are multiple accommodation alternatives, hotels in historic buildings such as the Shakespeare Hotel in an old palace and the Stikliai Hotel in the residence of a merchant, both from the 21st century.
History
Trakai is located 17 miles west of the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius and was the latter’s medieval predecessor. Certainly, his castle was a heavily fortified palace and the seat of royal authority in the once-powerful Grand Duchy of Lithuania. In addition, it had multiple reconstructions with a 15th-century style. These are the result of a thorough restoration work completed in 1960.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
Gediminas Tower
The Gediminas tower is the only thing left of Vilnius Castle. Ahoras is a symbol of the city and the country. The tower is represented in the local currency, the litas, and is mentioned in patriotic poems and songs. You can climb up at all on foot or by funicular. The view of the city from above is impressive. The tower can be visited inside, there is an archeological museum with the remains of the surroundings of the tower so you can know all its history.
Žmuidzinavičius Museum
Although it is better known as Velnių muziejus (Devil’s Museum -or Demon-). This curious gallery, dedicated entirely to the Devil, is located in the city of Kaunas, about 100 km west of Vilnius. On the other hand, it is not an overwhelming or dark place and surely you will not live a terrifying experience. Certainly, it is an interesting collection of figures that represent the devil and at a very accessible price so you can browse. Do not miss this rarity.
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