📜 Historic CuriositiesVilniusEasy access
Trakai Island Castle
Trakai, Vilnius2-3 hoursBest: May to September; winter for frozen lake
A fairy-tale red-brick castle on an island in Lake Galvė — the most iconic image of Lithuania and the former residence of the Grand Dukes of the Lithuanian medieval superpower.
Trakai Island Castle is arguably the single most iconic image of Lithuania. Built on an island in the crystalline Lake Galvė, this red-brick Gothic castle was the residence of Grand Duke Vytautas, who ruled the Grand Duchy of Lithuania at the height of its power in the 15th century when it stretched from the Baltic to the Black Sea.
The castle was reconstructed in the Soviet period (controversial but visually stunning) and now houses a museum of Lithuanian history. The setting is magical — the castle rises from the lake waters, connected to the shore by a wooden bridge, with the town of Trakai visible across the water. Surrounding the lake are wooded hills and the distinctive buildings of the Karaim community.
Why Visit
Lithuania's most iconic landmark and a window into the medieval Grand Duchy's power. The lake setting is breathtakingly beautiful.
History
Built in the 14th-15th century. Served as the Grand Ducal residence. Fell into ruin and was reconstructed 1951-1987.
Address
Trakai Island Castle, Trakai
Opening Hours
Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (summer until 19:00)
Admission
€8 adults, €4 students
54.6522, 24.9336
Visitor Tips
- 1Rent a boat on the lake for the best castle views
- 2Try kibinai (Karaim pastries) in town
- 3The museum inside is worth the entrance fee
- 4Summer weekends can be very crowded — visit weekdays
