Kaunas

Lithuania’s second largest city and former capital is awash with wonderful old baroque buildings and has few of the Communist blocks that blight Vilnius. What’s more, you don’t just get to look at them – you can stay in them as well. Hotel Metropolis (S. Daukanto g. 21) is one of the nicest and has individually decorated rooms, giving it a cosy boutique feel. A comfortable option is the Magnus Hotel (Vytauto pr. 25), conveniently located close to the central bus station and opposite the Akropolis shopping centre. For something a little cosier, try the Litinterp Guesthouse Kaunas (Gedimino g. 28-7), a family-run spot close to the quaint cafés of Laisves Aleja.

Kaunas is famous for its amber jewellery which costs less here than in other Baltic countries. The best is to be found on Vilnius Street in the Old Town, where you’ll also find boutiques selling the local earthenware pots and handwoven linen. Most of the international brands are to be found in the vast Kaunas Akropolis shopping centre (Karaliaus Mindaugo pr. 49) but give the annoyingly overpriced Zara and co a miss in favour of ImDeco, where you’ll find beautiful bone china dishes, cups and pots complete with elaborate hand-painted designs. Laisvs Alja is the main spot for street sellers, in particular artisan food producers selling everything from flavoured vodka to delicious slices of Šakotis (Lithuanian pound cake).

Izmir is defined by its seafront and if it's seafood you're after, you're in the right place. Deniz (Atatürk Caddesi 188) is the most famous top-end seafood restaurant in the city; dress to impress to dine here. More down to earth but no less delicious is Sakız (Şehıt Nevresbey Bulvarı 9) with a menu that fuses traditional Turkish staples with modern twists. For a cheap and filling feed, hike up the hill to Kırım Ciǧ Börek (Birleşmis Milletler Caddesi). There are plenty of cafés and bars along the seafront serving alcohol as well as coffee. Alinda Cafe Bar and Cafe Melanie on Atatürk Caddesi are both popular places to chill out with a beer.

Kaziuko Mugė

March

A huge folk arts and crafts fair, Kaziuko Mugė brings artists from all over Lithuania – as well as Russia and Poland – to Kaunas for the annual market that fills the streets of the Old Town.

Kauno Miesto Diena

May

Kaunas gained official city status in 1463 and Kauno Miesto Diena or ‘Days of Kaunas City’ celebrates the anniversary via a huge folk fair and numerous musical performances.

Bike Show Millennium

June

Despite the name, Kaunas annual petrol fest takes place each June and sees the city thronged with bikers from all over the world. Don’t miss the impressive ‘Fire Angel Show’ synchronised display.

Pažaislis Muzikos Festivalis

June-August

Lithuania’s version of the Proms, Pažaislis Muzikos Festivalis brings together classical musicians, church choirs and singers for a series of concerts over the summer months. Kicking off in July, proceedings come to a close at the end of September.

Kaunas Cantat

December

The perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit, Kaunas Cantat is a three-day event that pits choirs from all over Lithuania against each other in a festive sing-off.