Trakai

Trakai is a fanciful jumble of islands, verdant slopes, glistening lakes, and rolling meadows. It is located just west of the capital, in Vilnius, and attracts visitors and residents throughout the year.

Many visitors are awestruck by the Lord of the Rings-style castle in the Trakai Historical National Park's core, sprouting of red-brick towers and turrets that reflects wonderfully against the lake waters all around. Others come for the summertime pleasure that revolves on the banks of the Akmena, Galve, and Skaistis lakes.

Then there are the Karaim community's strange multicultural remnants — a rare Turkic tribe that still worships at the Trakai Kenesa synagogue, which may be viewed on-site.

It simply costs a few Euros per person and takes you to some of the most beautiful locations. Alternatively, you may rent a kayak and go kayaking to see the castle from a different perspective. You can roam about the town, the lake, and even take boat excursions out and around the lake for hours.

• Location: Lithuania
• Timing: May – September: Monday – Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. October – April: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m
• Famous for: natural wonders, traditional Karaim cuisine, and awe-inspiring vistas of the Trakai Island Castle
• Entry Fee: Adults pay 8 €, students pay 4 €, and seniors pay 4 €.
• Best Time To Visit: July, August, and then June.