Between Storks and City Stories

With a stop at Panemunė Castle, we follow the Nemunas River upstream – always along the Russian border, heading towards Kaunas. Wildflowers bloom everywhere, and of course, we see many storks again. Lithuania is already firmly established in our minds as the Land of Storks.

Panemunė Castle dates back to the 17th century and is beautifully situated on a hill overlooking the Nemunas – the view over the river is stunning.

Upon arriving in Kaunas, we set up our camp – the only campground in the city. It is located by a lake, but also directly next to a busy intersection and near the highway. So off we go: we take a bus into the city center.

Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania, was even the provisional capital of the country between the world wars. Today, it presents itself as a vibrant, creative city full of students, modern cafés, and an impressive mix of history and street art. We spend the entire afternoon and evening in Kaunas. Fortunately, a thunderstorm passes us by, and we enjoy the long pedestrian boulevard, admire the 14th-century castle, and wander through the charming old town. Time and again, we take turns – and discover small hidden artworks, sculptures, and facade paintings.

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Storks, a Castle, and Wandering Through Kaunas

With a stop at Panemunė Castle, we follow the Nemunas River upstream – hugging the Russian border as we head toward Kaunas. Wildflowers bloom everywhere, and of course, more storks. Lithuania is already firmly established in our minds as the Land of Storks.
Panemunė Castle, originally built in the 17th century, sits picturesquely on a hill above the river - the sweeping views of the Nemunas as well.
In Kaunas, we set up camp at the city’s only campground. It’s located by a lake, but unfortunately also right next to a major road and the highway. So we hop on a bus and head straight into the city center.
Kaunas is Lithuania’s second-largest city – and was the country’s temporary capital between the world wars. Today, it feels youthful and vibrant, filled with students, modern cafés, and a unique blend of history and contemporary street art. We spend the whole afternoon and evening exploring. A thunderstorm luckily passes us by, and we stroll along the city’s long pedestrian boulevard, admire the 14th-century castle, and wander through the charming old town. Again and again, we take little detours – and discover tucked-away art, sculptures, and murals.