Once owned by Germany and called Memel, the Lithuanian port town of Klaipeda gained independence in 1919. Since then, it has grown to become a popular tourist destination with a charming old town, quaint cobbled streets and plenty of culture. Many day-trippers stop here as part of a more broader excursion during the summer, but Klaipeda is easily a place you can spend a few days exploring at any time of the year. And in this guide, we’ve got the best things to do and see so that your trip to Klaipeda is one to remember.
Pop by the Lithuanian Sea Museum
There’s plenty of maritime history in Keldida, and many people still use the arrive at the port city via boat (which you can book on Ferryscanner) as they cross the beautiful Baltic Sea. One of their first stops is the Lithuanian Sea Museum, located across the water from central Klaipeda. Here, you’ll find a dolphinarium with shows starring Black Sea bottlenose dolphins, Baltic seals and Steller sea lions. There’s also underwater walkways passing through with tank loads of colourful fish, as well as your usual museum cafe and restaurant, just in case you get peckish.
Visit the Old Town
The Old Town is the primary draw in Klaipeda, thanks to unique architecture and quaint cobbled streets. Walk down Turgaus Gatve all the way to the Theatre Square, where there’s ice skating during the winter, and take in the German-influenced buildings that make Klaipeda stand out compared to other Lithuanian cities. Other highlights of the Old Town include the Friedrich passage, which was first created in 1692 and given its own coat of arms. There are courtyards filled with restaurants, shops and cafes waiting for you there.
Get back to nature at Curonian Spit National Park
Curonian Spit National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Lithuania’s most diverse and visited natural areas. It sits just off the Baltic Sea and has lush coastlines that adjoin midway with its counterpart national park in Russia. Hike and bike along the trails on the shoreline, sail on the Curonian Lagoon and visit the old fishing trails with buildings hosting museums, artwork and churches.
Admire Sculpture Park
You’ll find Sculpture Park in the north part of the city. It’s one of the top attractions in Klaipeda, thanks to the 116 sculptures constructed between 1977 and 1991. Originally, it was a cemetery converted into an art exhibition by the Soviet government. Today, you can wander around and admire the sculptures while taking a picture or two.
Go for a stroll along the river in Klaipeda
Klaipeda really is a place where you can enjoy pleasant walks, and nowhere is that more prevalent than at Dane Park along the riverside. Spot old-school fishing boats, sculptures of fishermen and a swooning mermaid on the bench as you take in local surroundings. There’s also a selection of cafes dotted around Dane Park, as well as a children’s playground, which will come in handy if you’re visiting with the family.
The charm of Klaipeda
Lithuania’s third-largest city is well worth a visit if you delight in wandering around a peaceful place with a laid-back attitude. Plus, you get to see UNESCO sites, take in maritime history and discover one of Eastern Europe’s prettiest old towns, all within the confines of Klaipeda.