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Anykščiai, Lietuva - Things to Do in Anykščiai

Anykščiai

Anykščiai, Lietuva - Complete Travel Guide

Anykščiai is a charming town located in the heart of Lithuania's Aukštaitija region, renowned for its deep connection to Lithuanian literature and culture. This picturesque destination is famously associated with Antanas Baranauskas, the author of the epic poem 'Anykščių šilelis' (The Forest of Anykščiai), which has made the town a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts. The town sits along the Šventoji River, surrounded by dense pine forests and rolling hills that create a serene natural backdrop. Today, Anykščiai easyly blends its literary heritage with outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore unique museums, walk through ancient forests on elevated treetop paths, and experience traditional Lithuanian culture in an authentic small-town setting. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader Aukštaitija National Park region while offering its own distinctive attractions that celebrate both nature and national identity.

Top Anykščiai

Treetop Walking Path Experience

Walk among the pine tree canopies on a 300-meter elevated wooden walkway that rises 21 meters above the forest floor. This unique perspective offers impressive views of the Anykščiai forest and surrounding countryside. The path includes an observation tower providing panoramic vistas of the region.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €8-12 for adults. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The path is open year-round but can be slippery in winter, so wear appropriate footwear.

Horse Museum and Narrow Gauge Railway

Explore Lithuania's unique Horse Museum, the only one of its kind in the country, showcasing the relationship between Lithuanians and horses throughout history. Combine this with a ride on the historic narrow gauge railway that winds through the scenic countryside. The vintage train offers a nostalgic journey through forests and meadows.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is approximately €3-5, while railway tickets cost €8-15 depending on the route. Check seasonal schedules as the railway operates mainly from May to October. Book railway tickets in advance during summer weekends.

Anykščiai Forest and Literary Trail

Follow the footsteps of famous Lithuanian poets through the legendary Anykščiai Forest, immortalized in classical Lithuanian literature. The trail features monuments, sculptures, and information boards explaining the cultural significance of various locations. This peaceful walk combines nature appreciation with literary history.

Booking Tip: The trail is free to explore and accessible year-round. Allow 2-3 hours for the full experience. Download the cultural heritage app or pick up a trail map from the tourist information center for detailed explanations of literary connections.

Puntukas Stone and Geological Exploration

Visit the famous Puntukas Stone, the second-largest boulder in Lithuania and a geological monument left by ancient glaciers. The site includes an information center explaining the region's geological history and the stone's cultural significance. Surrounding trails offer pleasant walks through diverse landscapes.

Booking Tip: Access to the stone is free, though the information center may charge a small fee (€2-3). Best visited as part of a broader nature tour of the region. Combine with nearby hiking trails for a full day outdoors.

Traditional Craft Workshops and Local Culture

Participate in hands-on workshops learning traditional Lithuanian crafts such as pottery, weaving, or woodworking from local artisans. These experiences provide insight into rural Lithuanian culture and offer the chance to create authentic souvenirs. Many workshops are held in historic buildings that add to the cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Workshop prices range from €15-40 depending on the craft and duration. Book in advance, especially during summer months. Contact the Anykščiai Cultural Center or local tourist office to arrange real feels with certified craftspeople.

Getting There

Anykščiai is located approximately 100 kilometers north of Vilnius and is most easily reached by car, taking about 1.5 hours via the A14 highway. Regular bus services operate from Vilnius, Kaunas, and other major Lithuanian cities, with the journey from Vilnius taking around 2 hours. The town is also accessible by the narrow gauge railway from Panevėžys, though this scenic route is primarily a tourist attraction rather than regular transport. For international visitors, flying into Vilnius International Airport and renting a car or taking a bus provides the most convenient access.

Getting Around

Anykščiai is a compact town that can easily be explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the town center. Bicycles can be rented from several locations and provide an excellent way to explore the surrounding forests and countryside. Local buses connect the town center with nearby attractions like the Treetop Walking Path and Puntukas Stone, though services may be limited on weekends. Taxis are available for longer distances, and many visitors find that renting a car gives them the flexibility to explore the broader Aukštaitija region at their own pace.

Where to Stay

Town Center
Near Treetop Walking Path
Šventoji Riverbank
Forest Edge Area
Railway Station District
Puntukas Stone Vicinity

Food & Dining

Anykščiai offers authentic Lithuanian cuisine in cozy, family-run restaurants that emphasize local ingredients and traditional recipes. The town center features several establishments serving hearty dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and locally caught river fish. Many restaurants incorporate ingredients from the surrounding forests, including mushrooms, berries, and game meats. For a unique experience, seek out establishments that offer traditional Lithuanian brewing or mead tasting. The town's cafes provide excellent coffee and locally baked pastries, perfect for refueling between forest walks and cultural visits.

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Anykščiai is from late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather is warmest and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months offer the longest days and lushest forest scenery, though this is also the busiest tourist season. Early autumn (September-October) provides spectacular fall foliage and fewer crowds, making it ideal for forest walks and photography. Winter visits can be magical with snow-covered forests, though some attractions like the narrow gauge railway may have limited schedules. Spring (April-May) offers mild weather and the beauty of forests coming to life, though some outdoor activities may still be weather-dependent.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Anykščiai Tourist Card for discounts on multiple attractions and free public transport within the region
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds at popular attractions like the Treetop Walking Path, especially during summer months
Pack layers and waterproof clothing as weather in the forested region can change quickly, even in summer

Activities in Anykščiai