2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska castle

Experience the best of Latvia and Lithuania in one day with this well-balanced tour that takes you from the medieval to the sacred, all with a knowledgeable guide. For a reasonable price of around $151, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours discovering iconic sites such as Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses. The tour is ideal for those who want a taste of history, architecture, and unique cultural experiences without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly like about this trip is how flexible it is—you’re free to explore each site at your own pace, and the guide is there to enrich your understanding without overwhelming you. Plus, the stops at the border for photos add a fun, symbolic touch to the journey. The only drawback? If you’re someone who prefers a more structured or museum-heavy visit, this might feel a bit light on details, but for most travelers, the balance strikes just right.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to see both Latvia and Lithuania in a single day, especially those interested in castles, baroque palaces, and pilgrimage sites. It’s friendly for solo travelers, couples, or small groups, and it offers good value, considering the included admissions and the personalized experience.

Key Points

Two Countries in One Day: Travel from Latvia into Lithuania, with scenic border stops for photos.
Authentic Sites: Visit Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses—each with cultural and historical significance.
Flexible Exploration: You’re encouraged to explore sites at your own pace, with free time at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses.
Comfortable Transportation: Ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a driver and guide ensuring smooth logistics.
Inclusive Pricing: Entry tickets for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are included, making it a straightforward, no-surprise experience.
Small Group Feel: The tour caps at 18 travelers, fostering a relaxed atmosphere and more personal attention.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration
You’ll meet your guide bright and early at Riga’s Reformcijas Laukums, right in the heart of Old Town, at 8:00 am. The tour lasts about 8 hours, so plan on a full day of sightseeing with plenty of comfort breaks and opportunities to absorb your surroundings.

Transportation and Group Size
You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the journey between sites more comfortable, especially on warm days. Reviews suggest that the smaller group size—limited to 18 travelers—creates a friendly, less hurried atmosphere. Some travelers noted a preference for private tours, but the shared ride still felt intimate and personalized.

Bauska Castle
Your first stop is Bauska Castle, a striking medieval fortress that some liken to a set from Game of Thrones. The castle’s recent renovations have made the views from the tower especially worthwhile; you’ll get great photo opportunities overlooking the surrounding landscape. It’s a quick 30-minute visit, but enough to soak in the castle’s atmosphere, explore the ruins, and perhaps climb the newly refurbished tower.

What we love: The castle’s dramatic setting and well-preserved tower offer a glimpse into medieval life. Reviewers mention how the free time here allows for great photos and a sense of history without feeling rushed.

Rundale Palace
Next, you head to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s version of Versailles. With two hours allocated, you’ll have plenty of time for a detailed look at the Baroque architecture, lush gardens, and ornate interiors. Visitors often comment on how visiting without crowds makes for a more relaxed experience—many mention the beauty of the gardens and the chance to take stunning photos.

Taste and Flexibility: The included admission lets you stroll freely, and you can enjoy a meal here if desired. Keep in mind that the tour does not pre-arrange meals—some reviews suggest bringing snacks or a packed lunch if you want to maximize your time exploring rather than waiting for service.

Border and Hill of Crosses
A quick stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border for photos offers a fun touch, symbolizing crossing into a different country. Then, the highlight for many is the Hill of Crosses—an awe-inspiring site with thousands of crosses, some simple, some elaborate, all piled up on a small hill. Visitors find it moving and a powerful symbol of faith and resilience.

Adding Your Cross: If you’re inclined, you’re welcome to leave your own cross, making it a personal part of this ongoing story.

What travellers say: Many reviews describe the Hill of Crosses as “fascinating,” “eye-opening,” and “a must-see.” An hour allows for a thorough walk-around and reflection.

Practical Tips: Bring your camera for the crosses, and wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic Cultural Experience
This isn’t a museum tour with endless information; it’s a relaxed exploration designed to give you a feel for the local history and landscape. The guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging—many reviews mention how their guides offered stories, local insights, and even snacks during the day.

Value for Money
With admission fees included for the castles and palace, you get a lot of value. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you want to buy souvenirs or have a meal. The tour’s focus on free time and picturesque stops means you can tailor your experience to your interests—whether that’s photography, history, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Flexible and Personal
Many travelers appreciated the ability to explore sites at their own pace. This flexibility, plus the small group size, results in a more intimate experience compared to large bus tours. Reviews mention that guides often go above and beyond, offering tips and personalized attention.

Practical Considerations

Timing and Pace
The 8-hour schedule is quite manageable, but be prepared for a full day. Starting early means you get the most out of each site, and the drive between locations is smooth. While the included lunch isn’t pre-arranged, the free time at Rundale Palace allows for a quick meal or picnic if you prefer.

Group Size and Social Dynamics
With up to 18 travelers, you’ll have enough space to relax and ask questions. Several reviews mention how the relaxed pace and friendly guides help solo travelers or small groups feel comfortable.

Cost and Value
At $151.17 per person, including all key entrance fees, the tour offers excellent value. It’s a well-organized way to see multiple sights without the hassle of car rentals or separate tickets.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves combining history with scenic beauty, this trip is perfect. It suits travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed experience rather than a packed schedule. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for those who want to spend time at each site, especially at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate knowledgeable guides and the chance for personal exploration.

If you enjoy cultural sites that evoke stories of resilience and faith, this journey offers meaningful sights. While it does cover a lot in a day, it’s not overwhelming—more a balanced taste of what Latvia and Lithuania have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including travel time between sites and time for exploring each location.

What sites are included?
You’ll visit Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses, with a quick border stop for photos.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t part of the package. You’re free to bring snacks, or enjoy a meal at Rundale Palace’s restaurant.

How many people are in the group?
The tour caps at 18 travelers, creating a small-group atmosphere.

Are tickets for the sights included?
Yes, admission to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are included in the price.

Can I leave my own cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely. Visitors are encouraged to leave crosses if they wish, adding to the site’s ongoing story.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll be traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the day much more pleasant.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, reviews highlight how friendly guides and small groups make solo travelers feel welcome.

How do I book this tour?
Most travelers book about a month in advance, and it’s easy through the provided booking link.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, perhaps a snack or lunch money, and an open mind ready for some memorable sights.

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Final Thoughts

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded look at Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural highlights without overloading your schedule. You’ll walk through history at Bauska Castle, marvel at baroque beauty at Rundale Palace, and stand among thousands of crosses at the Hill of Crosses—each site offering a different glimpse into the region’s soul.

It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate flexible, personal experiences and want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and inclusive pricing make it a smart choice for those seeking both value and authenticity.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone simply curious about the region’s stories of faith and resilience, this tour will give you a memorable taste of the Baltic’s treasures.

Note: For a more customized experience or additional museum visits, consider private tours, but for most, this group adventure strikes a good balance of comfort, insight, and value.