Klaipeda

The city’s defining themes include its maritime history and cultural institutions. The sailing ship Meridianas is moored by the Biržos Bridge on the Danė River and is an integral part of Klaipėda’s identity as a harbor city. The castle complex is considered the city’s point of origin; the idea to build it dates to 1252. It also represents Klaipėda’s centuries-old maritime history.

Smiltynė is also part of the city: the district is located on the Curonian Spit and belongs to both Curonian Spit National Park and the Curonian Spit UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ferries connect mainland Klaipeda with Smiltynė from the Old and New Ferry Terminals. This connection is an important consideration if you want to include both the city and the spit in your travel plans.

The Klaipėda Castle Museum displays archaeological finds, documents and city seals. These include reconstructed 17th-century seals and archaeological objects from the castle and Old Town. If you are interested in the area’s history, you can find a range of evidence here—from seals to finds from archaeological excavations.

The History Museum of Lithuania Minor focuses on the pagan and Christian cultures of the coastal region, as well as the history of East Prussia and the Klaipėda region. It is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Klaipėda Old Town, dating from the late 18th century. The exploration of regional history is thus combined with a historic building.

Klaipėda Sculpture Park offers a different way to experience art: this open-air gallery features modern Lithuanian sculpture, with 116 works by 67 Lithuanian artists. In addition, sculptures in Klaipėda are linked by a route that lets visitors get to know the city through art. A single park and a citywide sculpture route therefore offer distinct cultural experiences.

The city’s history can also be traced through its public spaces. The history of Theatre Square began in 1819, after part of the castle moat was filled in to create the New Market. Today, the square hosts concerts, events and the Sea Festival. It therefore reflects both a historical transformation of the city and the events held there.

For another perspective on history, Museum 39/45 offers four exhibition halls and 13 interactive stations about World War II. Its specific focus differs from the regional history explored at the History Museum of Lithuania Minor and the archaeological collections at the Klaipėda Castle Museum. Visiting several museums can therefore give you a chance to explore different historical themes.

Smiltynė is a recreational area with walking paths and water sports facilities. Together with its location on the Curonian Spit, it offers a different focus from Klaipeda’s museums, squares and sculptures. If you want to include nature and outdoor activities in your trip, you can take these offerings into account when choosing what to explore.

Ferries from the Old and New Ferry Terminals connect mainland Klaipeda with Smiltynė. The city’s cultural attractions and Smiltynė’s offerings can be considered as distinct parts of your plans, without combining them into a single itinerary.

If you’d like to compare more destinations, you can also find Šilutė, Vileikiai, Žemaičių Naumiesčio Seniūnija, Ventė, Pervalka and Radailiai here.

What does the Lithuanian Sea Museum in Smiltynė include?

The museum includes an aquarium, exhibitions on the history of seafaring, a dolphinarium, a rehabilitation center for Baltic Sea animals and a dolphin-assisted therapy center.

How are Klaipeda and Smiltynė connected?

Ferries connect mainland Klaipeda with Smiltynė from the Old and New Ferry Terminals.

What topics does Museum 39/45 cover?

The museum covers World War II in four exhibition halls and through 13 interactive stations.

For the broader travel overview: Klaipėda County.

Relevant information for planning your trip:

Klaipeda: Harbor City, Old Town and Baltic Coast | poezdka.de, Klaipeda Sea Museum: Aquarium and Curonian Spit | poezdka.de.