- A weekend in a city where tourist finds surprise even locals - April 30, 2026
There are cities you can visit without spending much time. There are cities you’ll definitely want to visit someday. And then there’s Šiauliai—a city you absolutely must visit at least once in your life. Šiauliai’s history began with the victorious Battle of Saules. Perhaps for this reason, the city stands out for the unique character of its warriors, their unique rhymes, symbols, and stories. The city has everything a traveler needs: distinctive urban accents, unexpected finds, cozy spots, traditional flavors, culture, and nature—it’s always close at hand.
The Boulevard – the Beginning of Your Exploration
Your exploration of the City of the Sun should begin at the boulevard, one of the oldest in Europe. It’s not just a place for strolling, but also a fascinating place to explore: the Rooster Clock, known as a meeting place, still boasts three-dimensional advertisements, artistic accents, and cozy cafes from the past century. A few steps further, and the cathedral tower will be right before your eyes, offering a magnificent panorama of the city from its summit. Another symbol is also worth your attention: the Sundial Square (the tallest sundial in Lithuania) and its guardian, the Sagittarius, known locally as the Golden Boy.
Symbols that become the face of the city
Šiauliai is also admired for its blend of records, history, and modernity. The Iron Fox, the largest animal sculpture in Lithuania, is a constant presence on the list of the city’s most popular attractions. It has long been not only a magnet for locals and visitors alike, but also a distinctive symbol of the city’s character. Next to the fox lies the shore of Lake Talkša—a place for strolls, leisure time, active recreation, or simply leisurely pastimes.
One city – many impressions
Šiauliai isn’t just about sculptures and artistic highlights. It’s a place where one or two days will offer you a wealth of experiences. You can start your morning with symbols and signs, immerse yourself in one of the museum’s stories during the day, or in the world of art and education, and spend the evening by Lake Rekyvos, admiring one of the world’s most beautiful sunsets.
A blend of nature, history, and romance
The next day offers new experiences. Climb to the top of Salduves Mound, a memory of a sweet love story, stroll through the century-old city park, and enjoy the scent of roses in the garden of the Chaim Frenkel Villa. The city offers all this—lively, calm, authentic, and always surprising.
A city that speaks the language of art
Unique experiences await you not only in its unique museums and interactive spaces, but also in the street art that gives the city its bold and modern feel. You’ll be tempted to stop and capture it all. The Cat Museum will amaze you with thousands of exhibits and the company of live cats. The only photography museum in Lithuania offers the opportunity to explore the inside of a camera. The innovative and engaging “Road of the Balts” center, the enormous paintings on the city walls, and the curious artistic accents will inspire you to not only explore this city but also to spend more time there.
Flavors to be replicated
Šiauliai is closely associated with exceptional flavors. This city, where not only the history of chocolate comes to life, invites you to try and savor. Lithuania’s oldest candy factory, “Rūta,” the “Valerijonas” teahouse, renowned for its healthiest flavors, and the “Gubernijos” beer and kvass, reminiscent of the ducal era—these experiences are preserved not only in photographs but also in memories.
Šiauliai is a city you must see and experience for yourself. This city, which turns 790 this year, combines sunny experiences, fascinating history, (un)traditional tastes, contemporary art, and a sense of the unexpected.
More information about what to see and do in Šiauliai: www.visitsiauliai.lt
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