Just over 200km northwest of Vilnius and Lithuania’s fourth largest metropolis, Šiauliai as it’s most commonly referred to nowadays boasts a rich multicultural history dating back at least a millennium. Almost completely destroyed during both world wars, post-independence Šiauliai has grown into a thriving metropolis, with a good collection of restaurants, some surprisingly excellent museums and one or two cultural attractions that give the country’s three larger cities a good run for their money. With regular express trains now connecting the city with the capital seven days a week, Šiauliai has become an enticing option for an unusual and strangely satisfying day trip. Here’s what you need to know.