Vilnius to Aukstaitija National Park: Full-Day Tour in Vilnius

Are you looking for an unforgettable full-day tour in Vilnius? If so, you won’t want to miss Aukstaitija National Park. Taking a day trip from Vilnius to the park gives you the chance to explore the beauty and tranquility of nature and take in the breathtaking sights that this area has to offer. The park’s forests, meadows and wetlands are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer and boar, foxes, badgers, hares, beavers, and a wide variety of birds.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your day trip from Vilnius to Aukstaitija National Park. We’ll provide an overview of the park and describe some of the most popular activities and sites in the park. We’ll also provide information on transportation, where to stay, and other helpful tips to ensure you have an enjoyable experience. So let’s get started!

Overview of Aukstaitija National Park

Aukstaitija National Park is located on the eastern edge of Lithuania, about 60 kilometers northeast of Vilnius. The park covers a total area of 148.5 square kilometers and is filled with lush forests, cascading rivers, tranquil lakes, and meadows. Established in 1974, the park is one of Lithuania’s oldest and largest national parks and was created to help protect and conserve the area’s natural beauty.

The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer and boar, foxes, badgers, hares, beavers, and a wide variety of birds. There are also many species of amphibians and reptiles in the park. Visitors can also explore the park’s cultural heritage, as the area was once inhabited by Lithuanian tribes.

Things to Do in Aukstaitija National Park

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Aukstaitija National Park, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing. Here are just some of the activities that visitors can enjoy:

Hiking and Biking Trails

The park has an extensive network of trails that are perfect for a walking or biking tour. There are trails for all levels of experience, ranging from easy strolls through the park’s lush meadows to more challenging hikes that take you up into the park’s forests and mountains.

Boating and Fishing

The park has numerous lakes and rivers, offering excellent opportunities for boating and fishing. Visitors can rent boats or canoes at the park’s visitor center and explore the area’s waterways. Fishing is also popular in the park, with a wide variety of fish species to be found in the rivers and lakes.

Wildlife Watching

The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including deer and boar, foxes, badgers, hares, beavers, and a variety of birds. There are also lots of opportunities for wildlife watching within the park. Visitors can bring binoculars and keep an eye out for these animals along the trails or by the rivers and lakes.

Heritage Sites

The park is also home to several heritage sites such as castles, churches, manor houses, stone circles, windmills, and more. Visitors can explore these sites and learn more about Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also visit the park’s many museums which showcase artifacts from Lithuania’s past.

Getting to Aukstaitija National Park from Vilnius

The easiest way to get to Aukstaitija National Park from Vilnius is by car. The trip takes about one hour by car depending on traffic. Drivers can take the E75 highway which runs along the northern edge of the city before branching off towards Aukstaitija National Park. If you don’t have access to a car, public buses also run regularly from Vilnius Central Bus Station to Aukstaitija National Park (approximate travel time: 1 hour).

If you prefer to take a tour organized by a local agency you can find options here at GetYourGuide where you will find full-day tours from Vilnius to Aukstaitija National Park that include visits to popular sites such as castles, churches and museums as well as activities such as hiking in the park’s forests or boating on its rivers and lakes.

Where to Stay in Aukstaitija National Park

If you plan to stay overnight in Aukstaitija National Park there are several accommodation options available. Visitors can stay in traditional homesteads or guesthouses within the park or choose hotel accommodation in nearby towns such as Zarasai or Žeimelis.

For visitors looking for an eco-friendly option there is also a campground located within the park that offers cabins or camping sites for overnight stays. The campground offers showers and other amenities as well as access to hiking trails through the forest.

Tips for Visiting Aukstaitija National Park

To ensure you have an enjoyable experience at Aukstaitija National Park there are a few tips you should keep in mind:

• Bring plenty of water and snacks: there are no restaurants or convenience stores within the park so be sure to bring your own water and snacks for your day trip.
• Wear comfortable shoes: comfortable walking shoes are a must as some trails can be quite rugged.
• Respect wildlife: remember to keep your distance from all wildlife as they can be dangerous.
• Check the weather forecast: be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.

Conclusion

A visit to Aukstaitija National Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all visitors. The park’s forests, meadows and wetlands provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, boating and fishing as well as wildlife watching. There are also numerous heritage sites within the park that visitors can explore and gain a deeper understanding of Lithuania’s culture and history.

If you want to make it Stress-free you can also consider taking a tour organized by a local agency such as GetYourGuide. With an organized tour, you can rest assured knowing that all your transportation needs will be taken care of so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your experience at Aukstaitija National Park!