Klaipeda, Lithuania

Klaipeda's Old Town is a primary attraction, located just a short walk from the cruise terminal. Visitors can wander cobblestone streets, admire the German-style 'Fachwerk' architecture, and visit Theatre Square, home to the 'Annchen von Tharau' fountain.

A must-see is the Lithuanian Sea Museum and Dolphinarium. It is uniquely situated inside a 19th-century fortress at the very tip of the Curonian Spit, requiring a short and scenic ferry ride across the lagoon to reach.

For art lovers, the Klaipėda Sculpture Park offers a unique outdoor gallery experience. Located on the site of a former cemetery, the park features over 100 sculptures by various Lithuanian artists set in a tranquil green space.

The most popular nearby destination is the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site shared with Russia. This narrow, 98-kilometer sand dune spit is home to unique ecosystems and charming villages like Nida, which is about a 50 km (1-hour) drive south after taking the ferry. The Spit is renowned for its massive shifting sand dunes and tranquil pine forests.

Another popular day trip is to Palanga, Lithuania's premier seaside resort, located about 25 km north of Klaipeda (a 30-40 minute drive). Palanga offers long sandy beaches, a bustling pedestrian promenade, and the impressive Palanga Amber Museum housed in the Tiškevičiai Palace.

The Klaipeda Cruise Ship Terminal is conveniently located on the Dane River, directly adjacent to the city's charming Old Town. Its prime location means that the main historical and cultural attractions are just a few minutes' walk from where the ship docks.

Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required. The distance to the heart of the Old Town is less than one kilometer, making it easily accessible on foot. Shuttles are generally not necessary or provided by cruise lines due to this proximity. The terminal building itself has basic amenities, with a wider selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants found just across the river in the Old Town.

The official currency in Klaipeda is the Euro (EUR). Lithuania adopted the Euro in 2015, and it is the only currency widely accepted for transactions.

While some tourist-focused shops might occasionally accept US dollars, the exchange rate will be unfavorable. It is highly recommended to use Euros for all purchases.

ATMs, known locally as 'bankomatas', are plentiful throughout the city center and dispense Euros. Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at markets or cafes.

Klaipeda is considered a very safe city for tourists, with a low rate of violent crime. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main tourist areas and the city center independently during the day.

As in any tourist destination, it is wise to take standard precautions against petty crime. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places like markets or public transport to avoid pickpockets. There are no specific areas of the city that tourists need to avoid. Using common sense is sufficient for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Klaipeda has a temperate maritime climate, with weather that can be changeable due to the influence of the Baltic Sea. The main cruise season from May to September typically sees mild to warm weather.

Summer temperatures average between 15°C and 22°C (60°F to 72°F), with occasional warmer days. Rainfall is possible at any time of year, so it is always wise to be prepared for a shower.

Packing layers is the best strategy for a visit. A light jacket, sweater, and a waterproof layer or umbrella are highly recommended, even during summer months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.

Klaipeda's city center and Old Town are compact and easily explored on foot directly from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, several transportation options are available.

Public buses are efficient and cover the entire city. Information on routes and schedules can be found on the official Klaipeda Public Transport website. Taxis are available at the port, but ride-sharing apps are also a popular and often more affordable option.

To visit the Curonian Spit, you must take a short ferry ride. The Old Ferry Terminal, for pedestrians and cyclists, is located near the city center and provides access to the northern part of the spit where the Lithuanian Sea Museum is located.

Shopping in Klaipeda offers a mix of modern stores and traditional crafts. The best place to look for souvenirs is in the Old Town, where you'll find numerous small shops selling local products.

The most sought-after item is amber, often called 'Baltic Gold'. You can find it set in beautiful jewelry and other decorative items. Linen products, such as tablecloths and clothing, are another high-quality local specialty, along with wooden crafts and ceramics.

For a more conventional shopping experience, the Akropolis mall, a short taxi ride from the port, hosts a wide range of international and local brands. Prices in stores are fixed, but you may be able to gently negotiate at outdoor market stalls.