From Riga: Hill of Crosses, Bauska & Rundale Full-Day Tour

A Full-Day Journey Through the Baltics: From Riga to Lithuania’s Hidden Gems

If you’re seeking a day filled with history, architecture, and culture just a few hours from Riga, this private tour offers a well-balanced blend of sacred sites, regal palaces, and medieval castles. For roughly 7 hours, you’ll explore three standout locations—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—each revealing different facets of Baltic life and history. Guided by knowledgeable hosts who are praised for their friendliness and flexibility, this trip is perfect if you want a personalized experience.

What we love most are the stunning views at Rundale Palace’s gardens and the authentic atmosphere at the Hill of Crosses, which can be quite moving. Plus, the guided walk through Bauska Castle’s ancient halls really transports you back in time. On the downside, you should prepare for some driving—about two hours each way—and the cost excludes entry tickets, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and historical storytelling. It’s especially ideal if you prefer a private, flexible experience rather than crowded group tours. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer eager for picturesque stops, or simply curious about the Baltics’ spiritual and royal past, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

Private, flexible experience tailored to your interests and pace
Highlights include the spiritual Hill of Crosses, ornate Rundale Palace, and medieval Bauska Castle
Guide influence makes a significant difference, with knowledgeable hosts praised for their friendliness
Excludes entry tickets, so plan to pay for additional site admissions
Comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off from Riga, saving hassle and time
Ideal for travelers seeking a day of cultural discovery, stunning architecture, and scenic views

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day in the Baltics: Exploring Lithuania’s Treasured Sites from Riga

This tour captures the essence of Baltic charm, blending spirituality, regal elegance, and medieval history into a single day trip. Starting from Riga, the experience takes you across the border into Lithuania, giving you a glimpse of the region’s diverse heritage.

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Convenience and Comfort

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Riga, where your guide—whether Normunds, Juri, or another friendly face—sets the tone. The transportation is by private van, making the roughly two-hour drive comfortable and relaxed. The group size is private, which means you get the undivided attention of your guide and the freedom to customize your stops.

The Hill of Crosses: A Testament of Faith

Your first stop is the Hill of Crosses. This site is a striking sight—thousands of crosses of all shapes and sizes, placed by pilgrims over decades, create a landscape that’s both visually stunning and deeply moving. It’s a place where faith and devotion are visibly lived out, and you’ll learn about its significance as a pilgrimage site and symbol of Lithuanian resilience.

Travelers have raved about this stop, with one reviewer describing it as “something very much worth seeing,” and appreciating the unwavering spirit of the place. You’ll have about an hour here for photos, walks, and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a chance to reflect or simply marvel at the devotion expressed through this unique landscape.

Rundale Palace: An Opulent Step Back in Time

Next, the tour heads to Rundale Palace, often called the “Baroque gem of the Baltics.” This palace, with its ornate stucco work, gilded carvings, and frescoed ceilings, is a showcase of luxury and craftsmanship. Walking through its lavish halls, you’ll imagine the life of Baltic nobility.

The immaculate gardens surrounding the palace are another highlight, offering a peaceful place for leisurely strolls amid vibrant blooms. Many reviews highlight how beautiful and well-preserved the palace is, and how the guided or self-guided tour through its rooms is a real treat. Be aware that the palace isn’t included in the tour price; you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

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Bauska Castle: Medieval Tales Come Alive

The final stop is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress that has witnessed centuries of Baltic history. Walk the stone towers and ancient halls, imagining the lives of knights, dukes, and merchants that once inhabited this strategic site. The castle’s outdoor park, with exotic trees and lush greenery, provides a lovely backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

Guests frequently mention the guided tour of the castle as especially engaging, with stories that bring the past vividly to life. As with Rundale Palace, entry is not included in the tour fee, so plan for that expense.

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Wrapping Up and Return to Riga

After a full day of discovery, you’ll head back to Riga, typically arriving after about seven hours total. The flexibility of the private tour means you can choose to linger longer at certain sites or enjoy a relaxed pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews, guides like Normunds and Juri are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. They go beyond just pointing out sights, often offering additional recommendations, like visiting Pakruojis Manor or a local flower festival, which many travelers found worthwhile.

The stunning views at Rundale’s gardens and the authentic, spiritual atmosphere at the Hill of Crosses leave lasting impressions, making the experience more than just sightseeing. The fact that the tour is private means you get a tailored experience, fitting your interests and pace.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is carefully planned, remember that entry tickets are not included. This allows flexibility but requires you to purchase tickets at each site, which is an extra expense. The cost of the tour is a good value considering the private transport, expert guide, and the chance to visit three very different, meaningful sites in one day.

Travelers should also be prepared for some driving—about 2 hours each way—making this a good choice for those comfortable on the road and eager to see the countryside.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re someone who appreciates history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, this trip offers a well-rounded picture of the Baltics’ cultural layers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prefer a personalized, flexible schedule rather than crowded group tours.

It’s ideal for history buffs, photography lovers, or spiritual seekers who want authentic moments like standing amidst thousands of crosses or wandering through exquisite palace gardens. If you enjoy stories told by enthusiastic guides and a comfortable, private setting, you’ll find this tour to be a memorable highlight of your Baltic adventure.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a meaningful window into the Baltic region’s soul—from the unwavering faith symbolized by the Hill of Crosses, through the regal splendor of Rundale Palace, to the medieval stories whispered inside Bauska Castle. The blend of religious, royal, and medieval sights ensures a diverse experience that appeals to many kinds of travelers.

The professionalism and knowledge of the guides make a significant difference, transforming a simple sightseeing day into an engaging storybook journey. While entry tickets are extra, the overall value for the private, tailored experience is high, especially considering the comfort and flexibility.

Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a history lover, or someone simply looking to see more of the Baltics in a relaxed setting, this tour offers a well-rounded, rewarding day that will leave you with plenty of stories and stunning images to cherish.

FAQ

Are the entry tickets to the castles included?
No, the tour price does not include entry tickets. You will need to purchase tickets separately at Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle.

How long is the drive from Riga to the sites?
The drive is approximately 2 hours each way, providing a comfortable ride with scenic views of the Baltic countryside.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check specific site accessibility if you have particular needs.

Can I customize the stops or pacing?
Yes, as a private tour, guides are praised for their flexibility and willingness to accommodate your preferences.

What language is the guide spoken in?
Guides are available in English and Russian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is there a lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but you have the option to enjoy a local meal either before or after the sightseeing stops.

This private Baltic day trip from Riga offers a thoughtful, scenic, and historically rich experience, perfect for travelers eager to connect with the region’s deeper stories and stunning sights.