Learn more about Lithuanian Jewish cultural heritage and discover a small ethnic Karaites community with your private local guide while spending a weekend break in Vilnius and Trakai. Taste freshly baked bagels that originated in the Jewish communities of Lithuania and Poland. Try delicious kibinas, traditional Lithuanian Karaites pastries filled with mutton and onion. Meet with one of 65 Karaites living in Trakai and get to know their story.
Known as the “Jerusalem of the North” before World War II, Vilnius was a centre of Jewish cultural and religious life with the most famous Jewish sage the Vilna Gaon-genius, with more than 100 synagogues and 10 notorious yeshivas, with the Yiddish Scientific Institute (YIVO), where European intellectuals, including Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud who were members of the honorary board of trustees, with Litvaks community which is even nowadays associated with remarkable erudition and education.
Trakai, the city located only 30 min drive from Vilnius was home to many Jews as well as to Karaite community one of the smallest ethnic minorities of Lithuania derived from Turkic-speaking adherents of Karaite Judaism characterized by the recognition of the written Torah and influenced by Islam.
This itinerary can be modified according to your wishes. You can combine ideas from our other itineraries or request your own preferences. Together we will create the best experience for you.
Essentially stylish hotel: independent family-owned properties or part of an eco-friendly hotel chain with personalized essential amenities and unique character.
Cosy boutique hotel: independent locally owned hotel or part of an “only-boutique” chain, offering a top-quality guest experience and amenities while situated in the city centre, trendy area or closely nearby beautiful countryside destinations.
Chic boutique hotel: independently owned or a member of a luxury hotel brand offering luxurious experiences and amenities while situated in the historical part of the city or closely nearby the unique and beautiful country-side destinations.
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For groups of more than 6 people please contact us for a reduced price
Welcome to Vilnius. Private transfer to the hotel. Overnight.
Breakfast. A 4-hour tour around the old town of Vilnius visiting the former Jewish Quarter, the big and little Ghetto, Gaon monument, Jewish hiding place ‘’Malina’’, Synagogue. Bagels tasting. Visit Samuel Bak museum. Free time for personal exploration. Overnight.
Breakfast. Departure to Trakai. Tour around Trakai visiting Karaite quarter, Kenesa, Karaite Ethnographic Museum. Walking tour around Trakai castle. Lunch at Karaite family-owned restaurant. Tasting of traditional Karaite dishes. Meeting with a Karaite. Return to Vilnius. Free time for personal exploration. Overnight.
Breakfast. Departure to the airport. Salutations and see you again!
