Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Kaunas. Kaunas International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave KUN:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Lithuania. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kaunas takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Kaunas International Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Kaunas is the local transport, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kaunas might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at KUN aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kaunas itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Kaunas, here are two things worth checking out:
Kaunas Old Town is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Kaunas Castle is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KUN, you can spend time at Narbutas Business Lounge or try Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Kaunas Layover
For food in Kaunas, local travelers recommend Bernelių Užeiga (Old Town). If you have time for a second stop, Piccola Italia is another popular pick.
Back at KUN, Vero Cafe is the go-to. AirInn Restaurant and Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KUN has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KUN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kaunas and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kaunas count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave KUN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.