A day trip to Trakai

People who live in Vilnius are sometimes surprised to be called Dzūkians. But in fact, Vilnius – as well as the nearby Trakai – are geographically located in the region of Dzūkija. If you want to escape the capital for more peaceful surroundings, Trakai, located a 30minute drive away, is a must visit. The picture perfect lakeside town occupies a special place in the history of the country – it was once the centre of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. It is also home to a spectacular Medieval castle, built on an island in the middle of a lake back in the 15th century. Karaites – a small Turkic speaking minority – settled in Trakai around the same time, and have preserved their heritage over the centuries. This includes the traditional savoury Karaite pastry, called kibinas. Make sure to try one in one of the numerous lakeshore cafes.