An open-air museum that is open in all weather and in every season makes for an unusual start: the Įstros Aviation Museum is Lithuania’s only open-air museum of aircraft replicas. Panevėžys District also offers traditional crafts, contemporary art, trails in the Nevėžis Valley, and an urban area with sculptures and walking paths. The interplay of landscapes, collections and cultural sites gives the region a varied character.
Crafts, Art and Special Collections
The Centre for Traditional Crafts was established on the grounds of the Upytė Manor; the manor’s granary stands right beside it. Various events and exhibitions are held regularly at the centre, and its educational programmes are well attended. In Upytė, a craft centre and the buildings of the former manor can thus be found together in one particular place.
Upytė Hillfort is also known as Tarnagalos and Čičinsko kalnas. A very different collection in Miežiškiai is devoted to old Christmas tree ornaments: that museum is dedicated specifically to these objects. Meanwhile, the “Mėnulio akmens” Sculpture Park focuses on contemporary art. It is both an outdoor exhibition and an open-air museum. The three places offer different highlights—from the named hillfort to a specialised collection and contemporary art.
The Panevėžys Puppet Theatre is another cultural discovery. By its own account, it is the only theatre of its kind in Europe. For a different perspective on the region, you could also consider a ride on the Aukštaitija narrow-gauge railway: festive or educational train rides are available from Panevėžys, departing from Panevėžys Railway Station. Check the timetable in advance if you plan to take a ride.
Trails and Landscapes
In Krekenava Regional Park, a 1.6-kilometre educational trail connects the Nevėžis Valley with a distinctive landscape feature: it runs alongside a horseshoe-shaped oxbow lake, next to which there is an observation platform. Its length, riverside landscape and viewpoint give the trail a distinct character. Also in the regional park, a 30-metre-high observation tower stands beside the visitor centre. Built in 2014, it is made of steel; its asymmetrical shape and supporting cables define its structure.
Senvagė brings together a range of activities in one place. It has cycling and walking paths, as well as sports, play, recreation and viewing facilities. There are also sculptures created by artists and events. Views of the natural landscape make it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll. Movement, relaxation and art sit side by side, so Senvagė cannot be reduced to just one purpose.
Regional Traditions and Lithuania in a Wider Context
Food culture offers another regional connection: old brewing traditions have been preserved in Aukštaitija, especially in Panevėžys, Biržai and Pasvalys districts. This is not a tradition tied to a single establishment or a particular tasting, but one shared by several districts. For an overview of the country, the “The Tastiest Cities of Lithuania” map connects regions with distinctive dishes and gastronomic experiences at cafés, restaurants and farmsteads. It also offers creative suggestions for food lovers. Participating places and offerings may change.
Lithuania’s cultural heritage also includes five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Historic Centre of Vilnius was added to the World Heritage List in 1994. “Modernist Kaunas: Architecture of Optimism, 1919–1939” was added in 2023. Another nationwide tradition is the Baltic Song and Dance Celebration: it takes place in Lithuania every four years and brings together thousands of participants for singing and dancing. Check the dates of each edition separately if you would like to plan your trip around it.
Discover more destinations: Panevėžys, Kupiškis, Biržai, Naciūnai, Kučiai, Puožas, Šilagalys, Naujamiestis, Rokiškis, Kazliškio Seniūnija, Krekenavos Seniūnija, Panevėžio rajono savivaldybė, Rokiškio rajono savivaldybė, Kupiškio rajono savivaldybė, Biržų rajono savivaldybė, Pasvalys District Municipality.
For the broader travel overview: Lithuania.
