Have you ever wanted to briefly escape the construction noise of Vilnius, turn off your notifications, and step into a 19th-century romance novel? You aren’t alone. Manors in Lithuania are currently undergoing a massive renaissance, transforming from neglected buildings into the country’s hottest leisure destinations.
Forget the stereotype of dusty museums with “Do Not Touch” signs. Today, these resurrected historic estates offer everything a burnout-prevention weekend requires: from gourmet farm-to-table experiences and boutique spas to active nature trails. Whether you are an expat looking to impress visiting family or a local rediscovering your roots, we have curated a guide just for you.
Here are 10 places that prove manors in Lithuania are worth your time, gas money, and Instagram feed.
Ilzenbergas Manor
This isn’t just a pretty building; it’s a lifestyle statement. Located in the Rokiškis region (right near the Latvian border), Ilzenbergas is unique among manors in Lithuania because it operates as a fully functional biodynamic farm. It is the only fully restored manor in the Baltics that farms according to these strict natural principles.
Why Go:
If you care about where your food comes from, this is your spot. You can walk through a massive 17.5-hectare park, visit “Love Island,” and admire the late-classical palace. It is fantastic for families—the kids will be obsessed with the free-roaming rabbits, sheep, and cows. It feels alive, not like a museum.
What to Do & See:
The Food: Do not leave without a tasting. The manor produces its own cheese, milk, and meats.
The Maze: In late summer, the corn maze is a hit.
The Tech: Check out the “3D Stelmužė Oak”—a cool mix of tech and nature.
Dining: The Grill Restaurant is open May–September. It’s perfect for a long, lazy lunch.
- Web: https://ilzenbergas.lt/
Bistrampolis Manor
If you are driving north toward Riga, you have likely passed the sign for Bistrampolis near Panevėžys. Next time, turn in. This neo-classical estate is one of the most culturally active manors in Lithuania.
Why Go:
Named after the Bistram family, this place oozes 19th-century charm. It’s not just about looking at walls; it’s about listening. The manor is famous for its acoustics and concerts. There is also a book-smuggling museum in the chapel, giving you a deep dive into Lithuanian history.
What to Do & See:
Active Leisure: There is a modern stable where you can book horse riding lessons—very aristocratic.
The Festival: Try to visit during the summer Bistrampolis Festival for classical music under the stars.
The Menu: The restaurant specializes in game meat. Try the venison.
Bonus Trip: The Pašiliai Bison Paddock is only 18km away. Seeing real European bison is a bucket-list item for any expat.
- Web: https://bistrampolis.lt/
Pakruojis Manor
When people discuss the most impressive manors in Lithuania, Pakruojis usually takes the crown. It is the largest surviving manor complex in the country and operates as a “Living Museum.”
Why Go:
This is an immersive experience. We are talking 48 hectares and 34 buildings, including a brewery, distillery, and artisan workshops. On weekends, actors dressed as barons and servants roam the grounds, pulling you into the 19th century. It is theatrical, loud, and incredibly fun.
What to Do & See:
The Booze: Visit the distillery. Their historic spirits and beers are potent and authentic.
Events: They host massive seasonal festivals—flower sculptures in summer and the Great Lantern Festival in winter (a massive hit with the international community).
The Traktor: Eat at the tavern (Traktierius) for hearty, traditional heavy Lithuanian food.
- Web: https://pakruojo-dvaras.lt/
Taujėnai Manor
This estate in the Ukmergė district is all about the legacy of the Radvila (Radziwiłł) family. It is a prime example of how manors in Lithuania preserve aristocratic grandeur.
Why Go:
The palace with its white columns is breathtaking, but the park is the real draw here. It is one of the few places where you can see peacocks roaming freely. It feels quiet, regal, and very calm compared to the bustle of Pakruojis.
What to Do & See:
Meet the Prince: They offer theatrical tours sometimes led by “Konstantinas Radvila.”
The Spooky Side: Visit the “Peklužė” cellar, where serfs were historically punished.
Pro Tip: Pack a basket. The park has designated picnic spots, making it a budget-friendly but fancy afternoon.
- Web: https://taujenudvaras.lt/
Burbiškis Manor (Anykščiai)
Yes, there are two Burbiškis manors! Don’t confuse this one with the tulip haven. This estate is located in the Anykščiai region, on the banks of the Anykšta river.
Why Go:
This is for the design lovers. The interior authenticity here is high, with original fireplaces and wall paintings preserved. It sits within a landscape reserve, offering pure tranquility.
What to Do & See:
The Vibe: Check out the Cigar Room. With its hunting trophies and plush decor, it’s moody and cinematic.
The View: Climb the manor’s observation tower.
Day Trip: Combine this with a trip to the Treetop Walking Path (Lajų takas), which is only a short drive away.
- Web: www.burbiskis.lt
Alanta Manor
Located near Molėtai, Alanta Manor bridges the gap between history and modern art. It was once famous for its porcelain, and today it serves as a cultural hearth.
Why Go:
The Italian-style villa is stunning, but we love the Vaidotas Žukas Art Gallery inside. It feels like a boutique museum in Tuscany, dropped into the Lithuanian countryside.
The Insider Checklist:
Coffee Culture: Order the “coffee drinking ceremony.” You get to sip from antique cups—very fancy.
The Art: Don’t skip the mineral painting exhibits.
History: Ask to see the Boston Encyclopedia, a rare source of Lithuanian history.
- Web: https://www.moletumuziejus.lt/alantos-dvaro-muziejus-galerija/
Paliesius Manor
If you associate manors in Lithuania with wellness and high-end sound, Paliesius in the Ignalina region will surprise you. It is a center for physical therapy and music.
Why Go:
The architecture here is award-winning. They encased the old stone ruins of the stables in a modern glass structure called “Pasaga” (The Horseshoe). The result? Acoustical perfection. It is remote, quiet, and incredibly peaceful.
What to Do & See:
The Music: Check their schedule. Hearing a piano recital in the glass “Pasaga” is a spiritual experience.
Get Active: In winter, the cross-country skiing here is top-tier. In summer, the hiking trails are pristine.
DIY: Sign up for a bread-baking class at the manor bakery.
- Web: https://paliesiausdvaras.lt/
Krikštėnai Manor
Located in the Ukmergė district, Krikštėnai proves that history and gastronomy are a perfect match.
Why Go:
The Baroque palace is beautiful, but let’s be honest—you are coming here for “Roko virtuvė.” It’s a culinary hotspot that draws people from Vilnius just for dinner.
The Insider Checklist:
The Menu: Be brave. Try the snails, pheasant, or venison. It’s definitely not your standard cepelinai joint.
Winter: During the holidays, the park turns into a Christmas wonderland.
Stay Over: They have a hotel and SPA zone, making it an easy overnight trip.
- Web: https://rokovirtuve.lt/krikstenu-dvaras/
Kretinga Manor
Located near the coast, the Kretinga Manor and its famous Winter Garden is one of the most visited objects in Western Lithuania.
Why Go:
If you are visiting Klaipėda or Palanga, you must stop here. The legacy of the Tiškevičiai counts is strong. The Winter Garden (Conservatory) houses 5,000 exotic plants, allowing you to feel like you’re in the tropics even during a grey Lithuanian February.
What to Do & See:
The Greenhouse: It’s the perfect place for a coffee when it’s raining outside.
Sweet Tooth: Join the caramel candy-making workshop.
Spirituality: Visit the Lourdes Grotto, just 1km away.
- Web: https://www.kretingosmuziejus.lt/
Enjoy the Manors in Lthuania
Exploring manors in Lithuania offers much more than a history lesson. It’s a chance to eat like nobility, sleep in baroque suites, and see the countryside from a new perspective. Pick a direction, grab your friends, and hit the road this weekend!
