KLAIPEDA CHARM: OLD TOWN, PALANGA AMBER MUSEUM, ETC. (4.5 HRS,)
Depart the pier for the drive to the Old Town of Klaipeda. Upon arrival, you will visit the Theater Square, and view its symbol; a sculpture of Annchen von Tharau. A family folklore band will greet your arrival with the song, Annchen von Tharau. You will then walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town. Along the way, you will see the old Fachwerk construction buildings, along with the houses where shoemakers, blacksmiths, bakers and other craftsmen lived.
Next, you will re-board your coach, and drive through the central part of Klaipeda to Palanga. Upon arrival, a stop will be made at the Botanical Park. Inside the park, a 19th-century Neo-Renaissance-styled mansion now houses the Amber Museum. During your visit, the Amber Museum will reveal the marvel of its Baltic gold; amber's origins, places where it can be found, and amber processing and jewelry-making. You will also have an opportunity to stroll through the gardens, and observe the swans and other birds in the ponds
Your tour concludes with a visit to Palanga's Basanavicius Promenade, which has recently been refurbished, and is now the highlight of the area. Here, you will find cafes, bars and restaurants on both sides of the street. The Basanavicius Promenade leads on to the pier, and juts out over 1,500 feet into the Baltic Sea.
Following your visit, you may opt to re-board your coach and proceed directly back to
the pier and ship, or remain a bit longer in the Old Town of Klaipeda, and find your own way back to the ship.
