Discover Latvia and Lithuania with a Full-Day Tour from Riga
Imagine a day spent wandering through the regal halls of Rundale Palace, exploring medieval ruins at Bauska Castle, and finding a moment of reflection at the Hill of Crosses. For around 8 hours, this tour from Riga takes you to three of the region’s most compelling sights, with a focus on history, architecture, and spirituality. Led by knowledgeable guides and traveling in a cozy vehicle, you’ll enjoy a well-paced, insightful experience that balances guided tours with free time.
What we love most about this trip is how smoothly it runs — from no queues at Rundale Palace, to climbing the Bauska Castle tower for panoramic views, and the powerful atmosphere at the Hill of Crosses. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personal experience that feels relaxed yet informative. On the flip side, it’s a full day of sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Latvia and Lithuania’s culture, history, and stunning landscapes without the hassle of organizing separate trips. If you’re curious about royal estates, medieval fortresses, and spiritual sites, and appreciate guided insights, this tour offers excellent value and authenticity.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Comfortable Transportation: Relax in a well-maintained vehicle with a professional driver.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of each site.
- Balanced Schedule: 2 hours at Rundale Palace, 1 hour at Bauska Castle, 1 hour at the Hill of Crosses.
- Authentic Experiences: Skip lines at Rundale, climb Bauska’s tower, and walk through the crosses at the Hill of Crosses.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 8) ensure personalized attention.
- Flexible Payment: Book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Planning more time in Rundale Municipality? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at Rtslaukums, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable Opel Vivaro or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. This small-group vehicle is perfect for navigating scenic routes and avoiding the crowded coach experience. The ride itself is part of the pleasure — you can sit back, enjoy the countryside views, and get some insight from your guide during the drive.
Traveling in a smaller vehicle means a more relaxed atmosphere, and you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd. The drivers are professional and attentive, ensuring your comfort throughout the day, which is especially appreciated if you’re prone to carsickness — a common concern that the guide addresses well.
Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles
The first stop is Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s version of Versailles. Built in the 18th century for the Duke of Courland, this grand estate boasts Baroque architecture, French gardens, and exquisite interiors. You’ll spend about 2 hours exploring the palace’s opulent rooms, including the Golden Hall and White Hall, where aristocratic parties and court events once took place.
One of the highlights is the Rose Garden, with hundreds of blooming roses — a perfect spot for photos and a peaceful moment. The lack of queues is a major bonus, allowing you to soak in the grandeur without the crowds that often accompany popular sights. The guided sheets provided give you context about the palace’s history and architecture, enriching your visit.
Several reviews commend the guide for making this part of the trip especially engaging. As one traveler noted, “Good communication by the tour company and a knowledgeable guide made this a highly enjoyable visit.” The palace itself is a reminder of Latvia’s aristocratic past, and its meticulous preservation makes it well worth the visit.
More Great Tours NearbyBauska Castle: Medieval Fortress with a View
Next, you’ll visit Bauska Castle — a medieval fortress located at the confluence of the Misa and Mēmele rivers. The castle comprises ruins that date back to the 15th century, along with a Renaissance wing. You’ll have about 1 hour here, which includes time to walk among the ruins, learn about its strategic importance, and climb up the sightseeing tower for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle’s history as a key defense point adds a tangible sense of the region’s medieval past. Many visitors find the climb worth it, as the lookout provides a fantastic vantage point that makes the history come alive. One review highlighted that “climbing the tower at Bauska Castle offered a great perspective on the landscape and history.”
The guided commentary brings these ruins to life, helping you visualize soldiers defending the fortress centuries ago. For history buffs or anyone interested in medieval architecture, Bauska offers a satisfying glimpse into Latvia’s past.
The Hill of Crosses: A Place of Faith and Resilience
The final destination is the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania — a site that embodies hope, faith, and resilience. Covering a hillside with thousands of crosses of all sizes and styles, it’s an incredibly moving sight. You’ll spend about 1 hour wandering among the crosses, soaking up the spirit of this sacred place.
This spot is especially powerful because of its history as a symbol of resistance during periods of repression. Many visitors find it deeply emotional — a place where personal stories intertwine with broader history. A reviewer remarked, “The Hill of Crosses is not only a memorial but a symbol of resilience,” adding that “it feels like walking through hope itself.”
You’ll have time for photos, reflection, and maybe even leave a cross of your own if you wish. This stop is a highlight for those interested in spiritual or cultural symbolism and offers a quiet, thought-provoking conclusion to your day.
Practical Details and Value
The entire tour spans about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks. The price covers entrance fees for Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden and the tower at Bauska Castle. Lunch and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase something during free time.
The small group size (maximum of 8 participants) means more personalized attention and a flexible experience. The tour is designed to suit those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and meaningful sightseeing, rather than just ticking boxes.
What Could Be Better?
One consideration is the busy schedule — with only a total of 4 hours of guided touring spread across three sites, you’ll need to move at a steady pace. If you prefer more time at each location or a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit quick. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of some sites.
Authenticity and Reviews
The overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their friendly and engaging manner. The comments from those who don’t speak English but still felt comfortable and well-informed highlight the inclusive, well-organized nature of the experience.
One reviewer called it “one of the best trips we’ve been on,” noting that they appreciated the smooth logistics and informative guidance. Others loved the stunning views and the way the tour combined history with personal reflection.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip suits travelers who want a structured, insightful day without the hassle of independent planning. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, or spiritual travelers wanting a meaningful experience. Those who enjoy good storytelling, scenic views, and manageable group sizes will find this trip particularly rewarding.
Active visitors comfortable with walking and a busy schedule will appreciate the pace. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer more time at each site, you might consider longer, less packed options.
The Sum Up
This Riga day trip offers a fantastic combination of regal elegance, medieval history, and spiritual reflection. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience led by guides who clearly love sharing these stories, making each stop special. The tour’s value lies in its capacity to give a broad yet nuanced glimpse of the Baltic region’s diverse heritage.
For travelers seeking an easy, educational, and memorable way to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s most iconic sights, this trip hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate engaging guides, scenic landscapes, and sites of deep cultural significance. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, this tour enriches your understanding of the Baltic states’ fascinating past and resilient spirit.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, you’ll travel in a comfortable van with a professional driver, making the journey between sites relaxed and scenic.
What is the starting point? The tour begins at Rtslaukums, next to the Occupation Museum in Riga’s town center.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, with specific times at each site for sightseeing and exploration.
Are entrance fees included? Yes, the price covers entrance fees for Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden, and the tower at Bauska Castle.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is lunch provided? No, lunch is not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to purchase food during free time.
Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking; it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.
What language is the tour guided in? The tour guide speaks English, and the small group size enhances opportunities for questions and interaction.
Will I have free time at each site? Yes, there’s about 2 hours at Rundale Palace, and 1 hour each at Bauska Castle and the Hill of Crosses.
Is this tour good for solo travelers? Absolutely — the small group setting makes it easy to meet others, and guided tours are a great way to connect.
You can check availability for your dates here: