Holiday Ayo - Trakai Island Castle is one of the most historic and beautiful places in all of Lithuania. Here we will cover how to visit, Trakai Castle opening hours and entrance fees, where to park, and where to stay. Here is everything you need to know before visiting Trakai Island Castle near Vilnius, Lithuania!

Trakai Castle is just a short 30-45 minute drive from Lithuania’s capital city, Vilnius. Nestled amongst a picturesque lake landscape in Central Lithuania, Trakai Island Castle is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The castle, which was constructed in the 14th century, has a long and fascinating history. Here are three key moments from the castle’s past.

source: IDN Times

The first recorded mention of Trakai Castle dates back to 1337, when it was built by Lithuania’s Grand Duke Gediminas as a residence for Lithuanian nobility.

Trakai Castle has been through a lot in its 700-year history. The castle served as a residence for the rulers of Lithuania, as well as hosted the army and the horses, for many years.

In 1795, the castle was surrendered to Russian forces during the Lithuanian-Polish War. The Russians left much of it in ruins. In 1812, Napoleon’s forces occupied Lithuania and used the castle as a military hospital. After Napoleon’s defeat, Russian forces once again occupied Lithuania.

In 1569, Lithuania joined forces with Poland to form the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. As a result, Trakai Castle became home to a number of notable kings and queens, including Stefan Batory and Sigismund III Vasa.

source: iStock

After dealing with a number of wars and occupants over the centuries, Trakai Castle was finally designated as a historical monument by the Lithuanian government in 1962. Today, the castle is one of Lithuania’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Trakai Island Castle is open to the public from 9am to 6pm daily. It is open year round, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

In the winter, the castle is covered in snow and looks like something out of a fairytale. Visitors can go ice skating on the frozen lake, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy woods. In the summer, the castle is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake or picnics in the park.