Birzai

Biržai is a historic town in northern Panevėžio apskritis, about 70 km north of Panevėžys, with a population of around 8,000. It is known for its Renaissance-era castle, the Samylis astronomical observatory and the Biržai Regional Museum. The town sits on the Apaščia River and has a strong cultural identity shaped by the Radziwiłł noble family and the region's beer-making tradition.

Biržai has a distinctive character in northern Lithuania, with a mix of Baroque, Renaissance and traditional wooden architecture. The town is famous for its beer tradition, with several craft breweries producing distinctive local ales. Climate is continental with cold winters and warm summers.

By Plane

The nearest major airports are Vilnius (VNO IATA), 180 km south, and Kaunas (KUN IATA), 140 km south.

By Car / Road

Biržai is about 70 km north of Panevėžys, reachable in about 1 hour by car. Buses from Panevėžys run regularly and take about 45 minutes.

The town centre is compact and walkable.

• Biržai Castle — a Renaissance-era castle, now a museum and cultural centre.

• Samylis Astronomical Observatory — a unique observatory in the region.

• Biržai Regional Museum — exhibits on local history and the Radziwiłł heritage.

• Biržai bridges — historic wooden bridges over the Apaščia River.

• Explore the castle and its grounds.

• Visit the observatory for astronomical observation.

• Taste local craft beers at the town's breweries.

Local restaurants serve traditional Lithuanian food with an emphasis on local beer pairings.

Biržai is famous for its beer tradition, with several craft breweries producing distinctive local ales.

• Budget: Local guesthouses offer basic accommodation.
• Mid-range: Hotel Biržai offers comfortable rooms in the town centre.

Local shops offer regional produce and traditional crafts.

• Panevėžys — 70 km south, 1 hour by car. County capital with museums.
• Šiauliai — 120 km northwest, 1.5 hours by car. Near the Hill of Crosses.
• Rokiškis — 50 km east, 45 min by car. Historic town with manor house.