Trakai Island Castle
A majestic 14th-century red-brick castle perched on an island in Lake Galvė, offering a fairy-tale escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and get best photos
Trakai Island Castle
Best Time
Beat the crowds and get best photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 14th-century red-brick castle perched on an island in Lake Galvė, offering a fairy-tale escape.
"This is a must do in Lithuania. The outside is incredible and the view from the lake is stunning."
🎯 Budget Travel Hack
Take the train from Vilnius for a cheap trip (€6 round trip). Student discounts available!
🚶♀️ Scenic Lakeside Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the train station to the castle, soaking in the beautiful lake views. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Trakai Island Castle Exterior
Lake Galvė
A stunning 14th-century fortress rising from an island, offering fairy-tale views and gothic architecture.
Walk Across the Wooden Bridge
Connecting mainland to the island
Stroll across the picturesque wooden bridge for iconic views and a sense of arrival at this historic gem.
Lithuanian Culture Museum
Inside the castle
Explore the castle's history and Lithuanian heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Budget-Friendly Options
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Budget Travel Hack
Take the train from Vilnius for a cheap trip (€6 round trip). Student discounts available!
🚶♀️ Scenic Lakeside Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the train station to the castle, soaking in the beautiful lake views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Construction Awareness
Parts of the castle may be under renovation, impacting photos. Check ahead if this is a concern. :camerawithflash:
🎟️ Early Bird Entry
Arrive at opening to avoid ticket queues and enjoy the castle with fewer people. :admission_tickets:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Budget Travel Hack
Take the train from Vilnius for a cheap trip (€6 round trip). Student discounts available!
🚶♀️ Scenic Lakeside Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk from the train station to the castle, soaking in the beautiful lake views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Construction Awareness
Parts of the castle may be under renovation, impacting photos. Check ahead if this is a concern. :camerawithflash:
🎟️ Early Bird Entry
Arrive at opening to avoid ticket queues and enjoy the castle with fewer people. :admission_tickets:
🛶 Water Taxi Option
If walking isn't your preference, water taxis are available to reach the castle island. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Trakai Island Castle is widely praised for its stunning exterior and picturesque island setting, offering a fairy-tale experience. Visitors appreciate the easy accessibility from Vilnius and the scenic lakeside walks. However, some find the interior museum a bit pricey for the experience, and ongoing renovations can sometimes detract from photos.
"This is a must do in Lithuania. It is an easy 30 minutes (€6) round trip from Vilnius. You have to walk 30 minutes or take a water taxi to the actual castle. Lots of places for lunch, chilling by the lake or even swimming. The tour of the castle is €12 and for me not totally worth it. There was a lot of construction so it was in a fair amount of the photos and videos. The outside is incredible and you can step in just enough to get inside the wall pics. The view from the lake is stunning. A fantastic way to spend a day or even an overnight"
Amanda Brooks
"Very cute castle. Right now there is a renovation going on. The castle itself was a bit too touristy and crowded for my taste but great views and lovely small town vibe. Lots of nice places for swimming also can be found around. The best part in my opinion was walking from the train station to the castle along the beautiful and quiet lakeside."
Helmi Ylisirniö
"It’s not bad. Currently about 20% of the castle is under renovation. I arrived right at opening on a Tuesday and had the whole place to myself for about five minutes, but within 30 minutes there were about 200 - 300 people.
Overall it takes about 60 minutes to see everything if you don’t care to read the informational signs or do the audio tour. You can arrive from and return to the train station in under two hours if you use the nearby bolt scooters, depending on how busy it is and how much you want to see. The walk along the lake takes significantly longer but is very pleasant.
If you have the time I would recommend coming, but given that it takes at least three hours to and from Vilnius and the castle isn’t that large, it can be skipped if you are short on time."
Robert Morgan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most budget-friendly option is to take a train or bus from Vilnius. Tickets typically cost around €6 for a round trip. Many travelers recommend the train for its affordability and convenience.
The journey from Vilnius to Trakai Castle usually takes about 30 minutes by train or bus. 
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the train station to the castle, often described as beautiful and quiet along the lakeside.
For a quicker or alternative way to reach the castle, you can use Bolt scooters from the train station or opt for water taxis from the mainland to the island.
While guided tours are available, many travelers find them to be out of budget. Independent travel by train or bus is a popular and cost-effective alternative.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the castle grounds is free, but there's a fee to explore the museum and interior exhibits, which is around €12.
Opinions vary. Some find the €12 tour worthwhile for the history and architecture, while others feel the exterior views are the main draw and the interior isn't entirely worth the cost, especially if there's construction.
The castle is generally open daily, but it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during different seasons or holidays. Arriving in the morning is recommended to avoid queues.
Yes, several reviews mention ongoing renovations, which can affect photo opportunities and access to certain areas. It's advisable to check for current construction status before your visit. +1
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to check the official Trakai Castle website for online ticketing options to save time, especially during peak season.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior views from the mainland, especially across the lake and from the wooden bridge, are stunning. The red roofs and gothic architecture are iconic.
Yes, ongoing renovations can be visible in photos. Try to frame shots to minimize construction elements or focus on the castle's impressive architecture. +1
In winter, the frozen lake offers unique photo opportunities, allowing you to walk or skate on it for different perspectives of the castle.
Mornings are ideal for photography to avoid crowds and capture softer light. The golden hour before sunset can also offer beautiful lighting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone near the castle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are many restaurants and cafes around the castle and in the small town of Trakai, offering various dining options. +1
You can find traditional Lithuanian cuisine, including dishes like kibinai (a local pastry), as well as international options.
There are lovely spots by the lake where you can enjoy a picnic, especially if you bring your own food.
While traditional Lithuanian food can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in tourist areas are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Kibinai is a traditional Karaim pastry, often filled with meat, and is a local specialty in Trakai. You can find them in many local eateries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk across the wooden bridge and the surrounding lake provide opportunities for kids to explore and burn energy. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as well as comfortable shoes for little ones. The option of water taxis can also add an element of adventure for younger travelers. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Trakai's History
Today, the castle is meticulously restored and houses a museum dedicated to the history of Trakai and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Visitors can explore its various halls, chambers, and courtyards, gaining insights into the lives of Lithuanian nobility and the castle's military significance. The museum exhibits artifacts, weaponry, and historical documents that paint a vivid picture of the region's heritage. The castle's enduring presence on the island continues to captivate visitors, offering a tangible link to Lithuania's medieval grandeur.
Experiencing Trakai in Different Seasons
Winter transforms Trakai into a magical, frozen wonderland. The lake often freezes over, allowing for activities like ice skating and walking on the ice, providing a completely different perspective of the castle.
While the cold might deter some, the snow-dusted castle against a stark white landscape creates breathtaking photographic opportunities. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially limited access to some outdoor activities during this season. Navigating Trakai: Transport and Accessibility
For those seeking a quicker transit from the station, Bolt scooters are available and can significantly reduce travel time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit