Biržai

Biržai, Lietuva - Complete Travel Guide

Biržai is a charming small city in northern Lithuania, renowned for its impressive Renaissance castle and unique underground cave system. This historic town, situated near the Latvian border, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Lithuanian nobility's past through its well-preserved castle complex, which houses an informative regional museum. The city is also famous for its distinctive karst landscape, featuring numerous sinkholes and underground caves that create a mysterious and otherworldly atmosphere. Beyond its historical attractions, Biržai serves as an excellent base for exploring the pristine natural beauty of northern Lithuania. The surrounding region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes that provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The town maintains a peaceful, authentic Lithuanian atmosphere where visitors can experience local culture away from the crowds of major tourist destinations.

Top Biržai

Biržai Castle and Museum

Explore this magnificent 17th-century Renaissance castle, rebuilt on the foundations of an earlier fortress. The castle houses the Sėla Regional Museum, featuring exhibits on local history, nobility life, and archaeological findings. The castle's impressive architecture and beautiful grounds make it one of Lithuania's most photogenic historical sites.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €3-5 for adults. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities. Check museum website for special exhibitions and guided tour availability in English.

Biržai Underground Caves

Venture into the fascinating underground world of Biržai's karst caves, formed by centuries of water erosion in the gypsum bedrock. These mysterious caverns feature impressive rock formations, underground chambers, and unique geological features. The caves maintain a constant cool temperature year-round, making them perfect for summer visits.

Booking Tip: Cave tours cost €8-12 per person and require advance booking. Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes with good grip. Tours typically last 45-60 minutes and are available in Lithuanian with English summaries.

Astravas Manor Estate

Visit this beautifully restored 18th-century manor estate featuring elegant baroque architecture and manicured gardens. The manor offers insights into Lithuanian aristocratic life and frequently hosts cultural events, concerts, and art exhibitions. The surrounding parkland is perfect for leisurely walks and photography.

Booking Tip: Entry fees vary by season (€4-8). Check their events calendar for special concerts or festivals. Best visited during late spring through early autumn when gardens are in full bloom.

Kirkilai Lake Recreation

Enjoy outdoor activities at this scenic lake located just outside Biržai, popular for swimming, fishing, and boating during summer months. The lake area features walking trails, picnic spots, and a small beach area. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a hub for ice fishing and winter sports.

Booking Tip: Free access to lake area. Boat rentals available for €15-25 per day during summer season. Best fishing spots require local permits available at nearby shops for €5-10 daily.

Biržai Regional Park Nature Walks

Explore the diverse landscapes of Biržai Regional Park, featuring unique karst topography with numerous sinkholes, springs, and rare plant species. The park offers several marked hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, perfect for nature photography and birdwatching. Educational nature trails provide information about local geology and ecosystems.

Booking Tip: Free access to park trails. Download trail maps from park website or pick up at visitor center. Best experienced with guided nature walks (€10-15 per person) available on weekends during peak season.

Getting There

Biržai is located approximately 180 kilometers north of Vilnius and can be reached by car in about 2.5 hours via the A10 highway. Regular bus services connect Biržai to major Lithuanian cities, with direct routes from Vilnius (3-4 hours), Kaunas, and Panevėžys. The nearest major airport is Vilnius International Airport, from where you can rent a car or take connecting bus services. For those coming from Latvia, Biržai is easily accessible via the border crossing at Meitene-Grenctāle, making it a convenient stop for Baltic region road trips.

Getting Around

Biržai is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the city center. Local buses provide connections to nearby villages and natural sites, though services may be limited on weekends. Renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore the surrounding countryside and reach outdoor attractions like Kirkilai Lake. For visiting multiple sites in the region or exploring the rural areas, having a car is recommended as it provides the flexibility to discover good spots and natural areas at your own pace.

Where to Stay

City Center near Castle

Kirkilai Lake area

Astravas village

Vabalninkas nearby town

Rural guesthouses

Panevėžys (40km away)

Food & Dining

Biržai's dining scene reflects authentic Lithuanian cuisine with several cozy restaurants and cafes concentrated around the city center and castle area. Local establishments serve traditional dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup), and fresh fish from nearby lakes. The region is also known for its craft beer, with local brewery Biržų Alus offering tastings and tours. While fine dining options are limited, the emphasis is on hearty, home-style cooking using local ingredients. Several cafes near the castle provide light meals and coffee, perfect for breaks between sightseeing.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Biržai is from May through September when weather is mild and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, ideal for exploring caves, hiking, and lake activities. Spring (April-May) brings blooming landscapes and fewer crowds, while early autumn (September-October) provides beautiful fall colors and comfortable temperatures. Winter visits are possible but some outdoor attractions may have limited access, though the caves remain open year-round and offer a unique winter adventure experience.

Insider Tips

Visit the castle during golden hour for the best photography opportunities, as the Renaissance architecture looks impressive in warm evening light

Try the local Biržų Alus beer, which has been brewed in the region since 1686 and offers brewery tours by appointment

Combine your cave visit with a picnic at nearby Kirkilai Lake for a perfect day trip, and don't forget to bring warm clothes for the underground temperature of 6-8°C year-round