Things to Do in Anykščiai

Anykščiai sits quietly in northern Lithuania, a town that feels authentically Lithuanian in a way that's increasingly rare. It's the kind of place where narrow cobblestone streets wind between wooden houses painted in faded pastels, and locals still gather at the central market on Saturday mornings. The town has genuine literary credentials - it's the birthplace of several prominent Lithuanian poets and writers, which gives it a thoughtful, contemplative atmosphere that you'll notice pretty quickly. What makes Anykščiai particularly appealing is how it balances cultural significance with natural beauty. The Anykšta River meanders through the town center, creating pleasant walking paths and small parks where you might find yourself lingering longer than expected. The surrounding Anykščiai Regional Park offers some of Lithuania's most accessible hiking and cycling, while the town itself has enough museums, cafes, and local workshops to keep you occupied for a solid weekend without feeling rushed.

Anykščiai's dining scene centers around traditional Lithuanian cuisine with a few modern interpretations. Local restaurants tend to emphasize regional ingredients - forest mushrooms, river fish, and locally raised meats appear frequently on menus. The town has several family-run establishments that have been serving similar menus for decades, which means the food is generally reliable if not particularly innovative. You'll find hearty portions and reasonable prices, with most main courses running €8-15. A few cafes near the town center serve decent coffee and lighter meals, while the market area has vendors selling local honey, bread, and seasonal produce.

Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather and full access to outdoor activities, with May through September being the most popular period. Summer brings the warmest temperatures and longest days, but also the most visitors and higher accommodation prices. Early fall can be particularly attractive - September and early October often have pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful forest colors. Winter visits are certainly possible and have their own appeal, but some outdoor attractions operate on reduced schedules and hiking becomes more challenging.