Palanga Observation Tower

The most impressive views are seen from a „bird’s-eye view“—especially when visiting the seaside, where you can see the ocean’s horizon and the surrounding nature. In Palanga, those who want to enjoy such views head to the observation wheel—this attraction costs 10–14 euros per person.

But did you know that you can see Palanga from above for free? The Palanga observation tower, located in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Palanga, offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire resort: from the rolling sea and the pine groves and forests that surround it to the center of Palanga, the winding city streets, and its distinctive architecture.

The Palanga Observation Tower is located in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Palanga, at 51 Vytauto St.

The nearest parking lot is located at 3 S. Daukanto St. During the season—from May 15 through September 15—parking at this location is subject to a fee.

More about Car parking in Palanga.

Every day from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and during the season—from June 1 to August 31—from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Important: During Holy Mass, weddings, and other ceremonies, access to the observation tower is not permitted. Services are held Monday through Saturday at 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.

Admission to the Palanga Observation Tower is free.

If you want to take your time exploring the inside of the church, stop for a moment on your way up to the observation deck, and take some time to enjoy the views once you reach the top, it will take you about 30 minutes. Please note that during the summer, the Palanga observation tower and church welcome an average of 100 tourists and visitors daily. During the summer months, you may have to wait—only 10 people are allowed into the observation tower at a time, so your visit may take longer.

Children will also enjoy seeing the views from above or looking out over Palanga through the binoculars in the observation tower. However, keep in mind that to reach the observation tower, you’ll need to climb stairs—there are handrails, but the stairs are quite steep. It’s also worth checking to make sure the children aren’t afraid of heights. The observation tower isn’t very tall, and there are no open spaces inside—the view is seen through windows, and there are railings all around.

Built more than a century ago, the church in Palanga certainly catches the eye of everyone passing by—and yet… most people never stop to visit it. But it’s definitely worth going inside—and it’s interesting not just because of the observation tower at the top of the church.

Based on a design by Swedish architect Karl Eduard Strandman, construction of this Neo-Gothic church began in 1897 and was completed in 1907. The construction of this church was financed by Count Feliksas Tiškevičius.

Inside, you will see an impressive pulpit and three ornate altars adorned with marble bas-reliefs brought from France. The central altar features a painting of the Mother of God, Mary, which was first mentioned as early as the 17th century. The other two wooden altars, located in the side aisles, were moved from the previous wooden church. At the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Palanga, you can see and admire the harmonious blend of architectural, sacred, and artistic elements.

You can also experience the beauty and uniqueness of this church in a different way during events—if possible, we recommend attending the events held here. When live music fills the church, the acoustics come alive, and a different atmosphere takes over—all of this creates a truly special experience.

Inside the church, standing at the main entrance facing the main altar, you’ll see a sign on the left—it points to the observation tower. Turn toward the stairs and start climbing them; first, you’ll have the chance to take in a bird’s-eye view of the church’s interior: the red bricks, the church’s vaults, the stained-glass windows, frescoes, and the altar—all seen from above—create a truly majestic view. As you continue climbing the stairs, you’ll reach the observation tower.

The observation tower is enclosed and measures approximately 18 square meters; through its windows, you can look out in different directions, so you’ll see the sea, a panoramic view of Palanga, and the church spires—the view opens up from a height of more than 21 meters.

You can also get a closer look at the sights you want to see with binoculars—there are binoculars available for free use in the observation tower. In addition to the panoramic views, if you look up, you’ll also see the church’s impressively large bell, organ, clock, and their mechanisms. This Palanga observation tower is arguably the only place where you can enjoy the seaside panorama and enchanting views from above for free. Don’t just walk by—stop for a moment and discover this spot.

You can also take a virtual tour of the church and observation tower in Palanga:

Looking for more places where you can enjoy magnificent, panoramic views? There’s also a slightly different observation tower at the Šventoji Church. After climbing 200 steps, a stunning 40-meter-high panorama of Šventoji will unfold before your eyes—the majestic harbor, the enchanting sea, and cozy, authentic cottages— and on a sunny day, you can even see Palanga.

There is no set price for visiting this observation deck, but the church asks for a symbolic donation of 1 € (cash only).

Important: If you want to climb the tower of the Church of the Holy Mother of God, you must make a reservation in advance by phone +370 687 17613.