A Stroll Through Beautiful Biržai

Biržai is a city in northern Lithuania. Famous for its reconstructed Biržai Castle manor, the whole region is renowned for its many traditional-recipe beer breweries.

Location

Must-See Spots

Kirkilai Lakes and Observation Tower

This observation tower will be your first stop when driving to Biržai. Beautiful nature, a lake, birds, peaceful sounds… everything you need to relax and clear your mind. Don’t forget to find the hidden spot with a playground 😉

Eco bare feet trail

Want to boost your health a bit? No problem! Visit this small eco trail — it’s a fun way to recharge and feel better!

The length of the barefoot trail is 1,7 km. Stones, sand, sawdust, reeds and other foot massaging surfaces are waiting for you. We are located in district of Biržai, near the Manor of Astravas, to the direction of Drąseikiai village.

Astravo dvaras

Tucked away just a few kilometers from the town of Biržai, Astravas Manor stands as one of the most stunning examples of Romantic architecture in Lithuania. Built in the mid-19th century by the noble Tyszkiewicz family, the manor blends elegance, history, and natural beauty. Its idyllic location — right between Lake Širvėna and the Apaščia River — was chosen not only for its picturesque views but also for the peaceful atmosphere it offers visitors to this day.

The estate’s main palace, designed by architect Tomas Tišeckis and built with the help of Italian master Cezare Laurynas Anikinis, features graceful curves, wide windows, and decorative wooden details crafted by folk artist Stepas Jurevičius. Once adorned with lion statues brought from St. Petersburg and filled with rare books, paintings, and even artifacts from Pompeii, the manor served as both a noble residence and later, a center of early Lithuanian industry — home to a linen factory that still operates nearby.

Surrounded by an 18-hectare park established in the 1850s, the grounds offer peaceful walking paths, ancient oaks, birch trees, colorful flower beds, and even a pedestrian bridge connecting workers to the nearby town. Astravas is more than a manor — it’s a quiet yet powerful reminder of Lithuania’s rich cultural past, ready to be explored at your own pace.

Biržai Castle

If you ever find yourself in the north of Lithuania, don’t miss the chance to explore Biržai Castle — a remarkable fortress with a long and dramatic history. It’s not just a beautiful architectural site; it’s also home to the Biržai Region Museum “Sėla”, which invites visitors to dive deep into the region’s past.

The museum was officially founded in 1928, and reopened its doors on March 9, 1989, just in time for the 400th anniversary of Biržai being granted Magdeburg rights. It found a new home inside the beautifully restored palace of Biržai Castle, and was later named “Sėla” to honor the ancient Selonian tribe that once inhabited the region.

Biržai Fortress itself dates back to the late 16th century, built by Krzysztof Radziwiłł, a powerful hetman of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The fortress stood strong until it was destroyed during wars with Sweden in the 17th century. Rebuilt in a Dutch architectural style, it became one of Lithuania’s most important military strongholds, even hosting famous figures like King Augustus II and Tsar Peter I. Sadly, the castle was again destroyed in 1704, and it wasn’t until the late 20th century that major restoration efforts brought it back to life.

Thanks to support from EU funds and international cooperation, the site has been gradually restored since the late 1980s. Projects included rebuilding the iconic fortress bridge, reinforcing the walls and foundations, and adapting the castle for cultural events and exhibitions. Restoration work continues even today, keeping this slice of history alive and well.

Over the years, the museum has become a key cultural player, building partnerships across the Baltic region and beyond — including collaborations with religious, military, and artistic institutions. Today, it offers visitors a rich collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and historical insights that help bring Lithuania’s complex and fascinating past into focus.

Mėsinė ir Gastrobaras “Agaras”

If you’re heading back from your Biržai adventures and craving a delicious, satisfying meal — make a stop at Mėsinė ir Gastrobaras “Agaras”. This cozy, stylish spot offers a warm atmosphere, perfectly grilled steaks, and a great selection of local craft beer. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploring or just looking for a memorable food experience, “Agaras” delivers on both flavor and vibe. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to take your time — good food, great company, and the comforting feeling of a well-spent day.