Is it Worth Visiting Šiauliai? A Comprehensive Guide to the City

Šiauliai is a city located in northern Lithuania and is the fourth largest city in the country. It is a popular tourist destination for visitors who enjoy exploring both historical and modern sites. However, many people wonder if it is worth visiting Šiauliai over other cities in the region. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide an overview of the city’s history, top attractions, cultural offerings, and more to help you decide if Šiauliai is worth a visit.

The History of Šiauliai

Šiauliai has a rich and complex history that dates back to the Middle Ages. During the 14th century, the city was a small and insignificant settlement that was part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. However, over time, Šiauliai grew in importance due to its strategic location on the trade route between northern and central Europe. Consequently, during the 17th and 18th centuries, it became a thriving center of commerce and culture.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Šiauliai continued to evolve and change. It was occupied by the Russians during World War I and the Germans during World War II. It also played an important role in the Lithuanian independence movement of the early 20th century.

Top Attractions in Šiauliai

Despite its turbulent history, Šiauliai is home to a wealth of attractions that both visitors and locals enjoy. Some of the top attractions include:

The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is perhaps the most famous attraction in Šiauliai. This poignant and moving site features thousands of wooden crosses that have been placed here over the years by

An Insider’s Guide to Šiauliai: Discovering the Hidden Gems of this Lithuanian City

If you’re planning a trip to Lithuania, then Šiauliai should definitely be on your list of places to see. While it may not be as well-known as other Lithuanian cities like Vilnius or Kaunas, Šiauliai has plenty to offer visitors. In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘Sun City’ because it receives more sunlight than any other city in the country. Let’s dive into what makes Šiauliai worth visiting and discover all the exciting things to see and do.

Local Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Šiauliai is the Hill of Crosses. The hill is situated about 12 kilometers outside the city and is covered in thousands of crosses, both large and small. The origin and meaning of these crosses is shrouded in mystery, but it’s a beautiful and unique site to see. Another popular landmark is the St. George’s Church. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the city and has an interesting history, having been used as a prison during World War II.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Šiauliai, the Chaim Frenkel Villa and Museum is a must-see. The museum showcases the life of Chaim Frenkel, a Jewish businessman who was a major contributor to the development of the city in the early 20th century. The Car Museum is another attraction worth visiting for car enthusiasts, as it has an impressive collection of vintage cars.

Dining Spots

If you’re looking for some delicious Lithuanian food, then Šiauliai has plenty of options. One of the most popular local restaurants is Uoksas, which serves traditional Lithuanian dishes like cepelinai (meat-stuffed potato dumplings) and kugelis (potato pudding with bacon). If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, try El Gaucho, a steakhouse that serves high-quality steak and seafood.

For a more casual dining experience, try Šiaulių Šeduvos Malūnas, a restaurant located in a restored windmill. They offer everything from pizza and burgers to traditional Lithuanian dishes, and their outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy a meal in the sunshine.

Cultural Experiences

Šiauliai has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of ways to experience it firsthand. One of the best ways is by visiting the Šiauliai Aušros Museum. The museum showcases the history of the city and its people, with exhibits on everything from art and culture to economics and politics.

If you’re interested in music, then be sure to catch a concert at the Šiauliai State Drama Theatre. They feature a variety of performances, from opera and ballet to theater and musicals. For a more casual evening out, head to the Romuva Cinema Bar, a cozy bar and cinema that shows indie films and hosts live music events.

Local History

Šiauliai has a fascinating history, and it’s worth taking the time to learn more about it. One of the best ways to do that is by visiting the Šiauliai Jewish Memorial, which honors the Jewish community that lived in the city before World War II. The memorial features a sculpture by Juozas Zikaras that depicts a Jewish family being forced to leave their home.

Another important historical site is the Šiauliai Ausros (Dawn) Museum, which is dedicated to the Lithuanian resistance movement that fought against Soviet rule. The museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the movement, as well as information on the lives of those involved.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail and experience something a bit more unique, then check out the Šiauliai Bicycle Museum. The museum features an extensive collection of vintage bicycles, including some that date back to the 19th century. They also offer bicycle tours of the city, which are a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.

For something completely different, head to the Šiauliai Radio and Television Tower. At 326.5 meters tall, it’s the tallest building in the Baltic states, and you can take an elevator up to the observation deck for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

In conclusion, Šiauliai is definitely worth visiting for its rich history, unique cultural experiences, and beautiful landmarks. Whether you’re interested in learning about Lithuanian history, trying traditional Lithuanian dishes, or exploring off-the-beaten-path attractions, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a city.