Take a ferry to Klaipeda and discover this vibrant port city that has a rich maritime history and a unique mix of culture and charming scenery.
Klaipeda is the main stopover for anyone that wants to visit the Curonian coast. It is the third largest city in Lithuania and is considered one of the country's most important economic and cultural centers. Its beneficial geographical location makes Klaipeda an important port and at the entrance to the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is home to magnificent landscapes and very special ecosystems.
Klaipeda was founded in 1252 by the Teutonic Order and was named "the Town of Memel". Klaipeda was influenced by different powers and rulers including Prussia and Germany. The city has a mix of German and Polish influences which is evident in the city’s architecture and tradition. After World War I, it became part of Lithuania and later became part of the Soviet Union in 1945. Today, it is the second most prosperous city in Lithuania after Vilnius.
On this page you can find useful information about ferries to Klaipeda, things to do and must-see places.
Klaipeda ferry routes
Ferries from Klaipeda in Lithuania sail to several ports of the Baltic Sea connecting Lithuania with Germany and Sweden all year round.
- Klaipeda- Kiel: there are more than 7 sailings per week with an estimated travel time of 20 hours
- Klaipeda- Karlshamn: the ferry crossings to Karlshamm are usually overnight. This is one of the most popular routes to Sweden with several weekly sailings with a duration of sailing of approximately 13 hours
- Klaipeda- Travemünde: this connection is active all year round with more than 5 weekly sailings and the duration of the ferry trip is around 30 hours
- Klaipeda- Trelleborg: there are more than 5 weekly ferries with a journey length of 16.5 hours
Klaipeda ferry port
The ferry port of Klaipeda has a rich maritime history that dates back to the 13th century. Located at the mouth of the Dane River, it always had a strategic location and always was a significant point for trade and transportation. During the time of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, most of the trade was directed to other ports such as Danzig, Keynesburg or Riga. Only during more recent centuries Klaipėda has developed into a major commercial center and the only one that remains ice free during winter.
The port of Klaipėda serves as a cruise tourism spot with two passenger terminals - the facilities are only an 8-10 minute walk from the city center. There one can find a number of tourist services and amenities like information centers, shops and waiting areas.
How to reach Klaipeda City
Klaipeda has a really easy access due to its well developed transportation options:
- Bus: There is a good bus service connecting Klaipeda with other major cities of Lithuania
- Car: Klaipėda is accessible via the A1 and A13 highways
- Train: There are passenger trains connecting Klaipeda with Vilnius and Radviliskis
Getting around Klaipeda
There are many transportation options so it’s really easy to get around in Klaipeda and get to different districts and suburbs of the town:
- Buses: There is a reliable public bus network connecting the neighborhoods of the city
- Taxis: Taxis are easily available throughout the city or on apps for a more convenient ride
- Car: The road network is extensive and visitors can also explore the city with their car or rent one
- Bicycle: As the city is flat a bicycle is also a good idea to explore the city and the surrounding neighborhoods with designated bike lanes
- Walking: Klaipeda is pedestrian friendly and most of the attractions and shops are within a walking distance from the center of the city
The best things to do in Klaipeda
Start by exploring the Old Town of Klaipeda and take a walk through the cobbled streets and admire the unique architecture of its buildings.
- Visit the restored Drama Theatre and the famous Statue of Ann from Tharau
- Explore Klaipeda’s maritime history through the Maritime Museum
- Learn about Lithuanian culture in the Amber Museum, located in a beautiful mansion of the 19th century
- Visit the Klaipeda Sculpture Park that features 116 impressive granite sculptures made by local artists
- Take a walk through the amazing Mazvydas Promenade
- Stop by the Museum of Clocks that features vintage timepieces and exhibits about the history of watchmaking
- Admire the city’s most famous sculpture, the Black Ghost Statue, located next to the waterfront
- Taste some of the local dishes like the cepelinai (potato dumplings stuffed with seasoned minced meat) and skilandis (a special kind of cold smoked sausage)
- Join one local festival such as the Sea Festival that celebrates maritime culture with concerts and activities and the Nida Jazz Marathon in late July
- Buy a ticket for the Dolphinarium Klaipeda of the Sea Museum and explore the mysterious world of waters
Tip: Don’t miss the chance for a nearby excursion to the charming village of Nida or the Curonian Spit, a Unesco World Heritage Site popular for its sand dunes and picturesque fishing villages.
