Trakai, with its fairytale castle sitting on an island surrounded by lakes, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Lithuania. What makes it such a fantastic destination isn’t just the scenery but the variety of tours and experiences that bring this charming town to life. Whether you’re floating above the lakes in a hot air balloon, exploring medieval ruins, or tasting traditional Lithuanian dishes, Trakai offers a rich mix of activities. Among the rides and sights, our favorite is the hot air balloon ride that offers stunning aerial views of Trakai Castle and the surrounding lakes—an experience that captures the spirit of adventure.
If you’re after a deeper understanding of Trakai’s history, the half-day minivan tour is a perfect choice, providing guided insights into the castle and town’s past. For those who want to combine a cultural experience with delicious local food, the Kybynai tasting tour delivers authentic cuisine with a side of history. For a more active day, a lake boat tour or a visit to an alpaca farm can add a fun, personal touch. Whatever your style, there’s plenty on offer that makes Trakai a captivating destination for all kinds of travelers.
1. Trakai: Hot Air Balloon Ride
Explore Vilnius from a bird’s eye view with this unforgettable hot air balloon experience. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Trakai’s lakes and castle from a unique perspective. As the only Lithuanian capital with hot air balloons flying daily, Vilnius is already special, but floating over Trakai makes it extraordinary. The operation has been running since 1998 and is run by a family business with pilots boasting over 1000 flights each, ensuring safety and professionalism.
The tour starts with a pickup in Vilnius, followed by a short van ride to the launch site. After about 45 minutes in the air, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of castle ruins, lakes, and forests. The experience lasts roughly 4 hours overall, including transfer times. Reviewers consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and the smooth, gentle ride. One said, “It was incredible to see Trakai castle from above, and the pilot was charming.” The tour is ideal for adventure lovers and those craving a one-of-a-kind experience.
Bottom Line: If you want an authentic, scenic adventure that’s safe and well-reviewed, this hot air balloon ride offers great value and unforgettable memories.
2. Vilnius: Trakai Castle Half-Day Tour by minivan
This half-day guided tour takes you from Vilnius directly to Trakai’s iconic island castle with ease. The tour includes a guided 2-hour walk through the castle grounds and a 30-minute walk through the charming town of Trakai. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured but relaxed introduction to the area without spending a full day. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Vilnius, often ending near the Vilnius Cathedral.
The guide will share stories about the castle’s history, its role as Lithuania’s medieval seat of power, and the legends surrounding it. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The reviews mention how the guide Bruno helped avoid crowds and made the visit more engaging. For around 4 hours, this tour offers a convenient and informative way to experience Trakai, especially for those short on time.
Bottom Line: This tour is excellent for history buffs and first-time visitors who want a straightforward, well-organized trip with a knowledgeable guide.
3. From Kaunas: Rumsiskes open air museum and Trakai castle
For those starting from Kaunas, this 7-hour day trip combines two of Lithuania’s most compelling sights: the Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum and Trakai Castle. The museum displays traditional Lithuanian life with authentic farmsteads, buildings, and crafts, offering a hands-on cultural experience. After exploring the museum, you’ll visit Trakai, famous for its medieval castle and lakeside scenery. The highlight includes a boat ride around the island castle, adding a fun, scenic element.
This tour is ideal for travelers interested in cultural heritage and history, with reviews praising guides like Bruno for their friendly, informative approach. One reviewer said, “I learned so much about Lithuanian traditions, and the castle was stunning.” The combination of outdoor history, scenic boat rides, and a full day of sightseeing makes it perfect for those wanting a comprehensive look at Lithuania’s past and landscape.
Bottom Line: If you’re keen on culture combined with scenic views, this full-day tour offers great value and a diverse experience.
4. From Vilnius: tour to Trakai with kybynai tasting
This private half-day tour pairs the visit to Trakai Castle with a local culinary experience — tasting Kybynai, traditional Karaymian bread-filled dumplings. It’s ideal for food lovers wanting to combine sightseeing with authentic Lithuanian flavors. The tour includes a visit to the insular castle, where you’ll learn about its history, and then enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Kybynai—perfectly warm and freshly made.
The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it suitable for travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate experience. The reviews note the friendly guide and the tasty lunch as highlights. One guest said, “It was a perfect mix of history and food—definitely a great way to experience local culture.” This tour is especially suited for foodies and those who prefer a personalized, leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Combining history with local cuisine, this tour appeals to travelers who want a cozy, flavorful introduction to Trakai.
5. Klaipeda: Hot Air Balloon
While not directly in Trakai, the Klaipeda hot air balloon experience offers a similar aerial view of Lithuania’s coast and inland areas. It’s run by the same family business as the Vilnius balloon ride, with pilots boasting over 1000 flights each. If you’re traveling to Klaipeda, this tour provides a fantastic bird’s eye perspective of the Baltic Sea coastline and scenic countryside.
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including transfers, and features a smooth, peaceful ride. It’s highly rated—just shy of perfect—by reviewers who praise the professionalism and stunning views. For instance, one reviewer said, “Flying over Klaipeda was breathtaking, and the team made us feel completely safe.” It’s best suited for adventure seekers and aerial photography enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For a similar experience to the Trakai balloon ride but in a different setting, Klaipeda’s balloon tour offers outstanding scenery and professional service.
6. Sauna Experience in front of Trakai castle
Relax with a traditional sauna experience right in front of Trakai Castle, combining cultural tradition with incredible scenery. This 18-hour experience is perfect for travelers seeking deep relaxation and a chance to enjoy breathtaking views from the sauna. You’ll feel the heat envelop you as you gaze at the castle’s silhouette, then step outside for a refreshing breeze and perhaps a swim in the lake.
Guests have described this as super cozy and authentic, praising the calm ambiance and spectacular setting. It’s ideal for those wanting a slow, restorative day in a unique environment. The experience offers tranquility, perfect for wellness-focused travelers or those simply looking to unwind.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a peaceful, authentic sauna with an unbeatable view, this experience is a must.
7. Sauna Experience with Bath Man in Nature
For travelers craving a traditional sauna combined with personalized care, this 18-hour experience promises exactly that. In a quiet natural setting, a skilled bath man guides you through a classic sauna session, followed by cozy accommodations on the second floor. It’s a perfect escape for wellness enthusiasts or those wanting an authentic Finnish-style sauna experience.
Starting from Miško g. 4, this tour emphasizes nature, relaxation, and cultural tradition. While reviews aren’t available, the focus on personalized service makes it appealing for small groups or couples. Expect a serene retreat away from crowds, with plenty of opportunities for reflection and rejuvenation.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking an authentic, quiet sauna retreat, this experience offers a chance to unwind in true Lithuanian style.
8. Trakai: Lake Galvė Boat Tour
Discover Trakai from a different angle with this boat tour on Lake Galvė. It’s a great way to enjoy the swimming, fishing, and sightseeing that make Trakai special. The tour lasts about 30-60 minutes and passes the famous island castle, Užuutrakis Manor, and smaller islands, giving you a panoramic view of the lakeside landscape.
Many reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic the ride is, especially when passing by the castle and scenic islands. The tour is flexible—some options include private rentals, perfect for a romantic or family outing. After the ride, you can explore the castle museum or try local kibinai pastries at nearby cafés.
Bottom Line: A short but scenic experience, ideal for families or anyone wanting a relaxing water-based tour with memorable views.
9. Trakai: Traditional Restaurant Set Menu with Castle view
After a day of sightseeing, savor a traditional Lithuanian meal at Restaurant Karališkas Sodas, which offers a set menu with a view of Trakai Castle. This experience is perfect for those wanting to combine culinary delight with a beautiful setting. The restaurant blends medieval charm with modern comfort, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner.
The menu features local specialties, allowing you to taste authentic flavors in a cozy, historic atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the great view and delicious food, making it a solid choice for a relaxed, satisfying meal after exploring the town. Given that the experience is valid for 10 days, it’s flexible for different schedules.
Bottom Line: If you want a memorable dining experience with a view, this restaurant provides a delicious taste of Lithuania in a historic setting.
10. Vilnius-Trakai: Private Alpaca Farm Tour
For something truly different, this 2-hour private tour takes you to an alpaca farm near Vilnius. Meet these adorable animals, learn about their personalities, and even feed them by hand. It’s a peaceful and interactive experience that offers a delightful break from traditional sightseeing.
The tour includes a guided visit where you’ll get plenty of opportunities for photos and personal interaction. It’s especially popular with families and animal lovers. The small, intimate group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal. Reviews mention how cute and friendly the alpacas are, and how the countryside scenery adds to the charm.
Bottom Line: A fun, relaxed option perfect for animal enthusiasts or those wanting a personal touch in their Trakai visit.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Trakai
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and travel style. If floating above the lakes sounds appealing, the hot air balloon ride offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush. For those interested in history and culture, the guided castle tour or full-day cultural trip will give you a richer understanding of Lithuania’s past. Foodies should look at the Kybynai tasting for authentic local flavors, while adventure seekers might prefer the lake boat tour or balloon rides.
Budget and time also matter—if you only have a few hours, a half-day tour like the Vilnius: Trakai Castle half-day or the alpaca farm provides a fulfilling experience without overcommitting. For a more immersive experience, consider the sauna or full-day museum tours. Book early, especially in summer when these tours are in high demand, and always check availability.
To sum it up, Trakai offers an impressive variety of tours and experiences that cater to almost every interest. From scenic balloon rides to cultural tours and culinary adventures, you’ll find options that suit your travel style and schedule. Two standout choices are the hot air balloon ride for a once-in-a-lifetime view, and the half-day castle tour for a balance of history and sightseeing. For the most memorable trip, plan ahead and consider combining different experiences, like a boat tour with a traditional meal. Whatever you choose, early booking is wise to secure your spot and make the most of this enchanting Lithuanian town.