While Old Town Kaunas is the heart of the city, the areas most similar in experience and convenience are the New Town and Žaliakalnis.
The New Town, directly adjacent to Old Town, offers a complementary experience with its wide boulevards and interwar architecture. Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue) is its pedestrianised main artery, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, stretching for nearly two kilometres. You'll find many of the city's key cultural institutions here, including the Kaunas State Musical Theatre and the Kaunas Picture Gallery. It's an excellent area for those who appreciate a blend of historical significance and modern urban life.
For couples, the New Town provides a sophisticated setting with plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls, fine dining, and enjoying the city's cultural offerings. The tree-lined streets and numerous parks, such as the Ramybės Parkas, offer a pleasant environment for relaxation, while the proximity to Old Town means all the historic sights are just a short walk away.
Žaliakalnis, meaning "Green Hill," is a residential area just northeast of the New Town. It's known for its distinctive interwar modernist architecture and offers a more tranquil setting with green spaces. The district is connected to the city centre by one of Europe's oldest operational funiculars, providing an enjoyable and convenient way to access the area. From the top of the funicular, you get lovely views of the city.
Families often find Žaliakalnis appealing due to its quieter streets and abundance of parks, such as the Ąžuolynas (Oak Grove) Park, which is one of the largest urban oak groves in Europe and features playgrounds and walking paths. The area also hosts the Kaunas Zoo, which is a great attraction for children.