From Riga:Rundale Palace & Hill of Crosses Private Day Trip

A Day of Splendid Contrasts: Rundale Palace & Hill of Crosses Private Tour from Riga

If you’re looking for a full-day escape that combines regal elegance with profound spirituality, this private tour from Riga offers just that. For $399 per person, you get door-to-door transport, a private guide, and visits to two of the Baltic region’s most striking sites—Rundale Palace in Latvia and the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. Expect a day filled with stunning architecture, lush gardens, and a powerful sense of human expression—without the crowds of larger tour groups.

What we especially love about this experience are the beautiful French-style gardens of Rundale Palace, which are easy to overlook but truly worth savoring. Plus, the Hill of Crosses is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression—the sheer number of crosses and the stories behind them make it a truly moving site. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the travel time—about two hours of driving combined—so if you prefer more time at each site or a more relaxed pace, that’s good to keep in mind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy mixing cultural history with poignant local traditions and who appreciate a guided experience that offers insights you might miss on your own. If you’re eager to see both Latvian and Lithuanian highlights in one day, while enjoying the comfort of private transport, this trip will likely suit you well.

Key Points

Includes personalized guided tours of both Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses, offering detailed insights.
Comfortable private transportation making the day smooth and hassle-free.
A perfect blend of art, history, and spiritual culture in a single day.
Flexible options for booking and cancellation provide peace of mind.
Beautiful gardens and a powerful, evocative site provide memorable photo opportunities.
Designed for travelers who value authentic experiences and meaningful sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Latvia’s Hidden Gem: Rundale Palace

Starting your day in Riga, the driver will collect you from your accommodation, whisking you roughly an hour south toward Bauska, home to the Rundale Palace. This grand building, often likened to a miniature Versailles, was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Duke of Courland. The private guide you meet here will fill you in on the palace’s fascinating history, sharing stories about its architecture, its former inhabitants, and its role in regional history.

Once inside, you’ll explore the magnificent rooms decorated with period furnishings and intricate stuccoes—each space telling a story of aristocratic life. But perhaps the highlight is the French-style gardens, with carefully manicured lawns, intricate fountains, and scenic views that stretch over the Latvian countryside. The gardens are a quiet place to reflect, take photos, or simply enjoy the beauty of landscape design from centuries past.

One review highlights the charm of this visit: “A small palace of Versailles in the far north, a hill of crosses in the middle of nowhere, in between fields, forests and moors filled with history and stories.” It’s this sense of historic intimacy that makes Rundale Palace so appealing. The guide’s storytelling turns the visit into a vivid narrative, helping you grasp the significance of this architectural jewel.

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Transitioning to Lithuania: Hill of Crosses

After your time exploring the palace and gardens, the journey continues—about an hour—across the border into Lithuania. The next stop is the Hill of Crosses, near the city of iauliai. This site is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a living monument of faith, hope, and remembrance. Hundreds of thousands of crosses, brought by visitors from around the world, fill the hillside, creating a surreal landscape of devotion.

Expect to spend some time walking among the crosses, hearing the gentle sound of the wind causing them to sway—a sound that many find hauntingly beautiful. The site is so striking that one reviewer describes it as “very eerie,” especially when snow is falling. The crosses symbolize prayers, memories, and resilience, making it one of the most emotionally charged spots in the Baltic.

A guide’s insights will deepen your understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The site’s significance is rooted not just in its size but in its history of resistance and faith, especially during times of oppression. The sheer number of crosses packs a visual punch, and you’ll likely find yourself contemplating the stories of those who brought them.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour begins with a pickup from your Riga hotel, after which you’ll head toward Bauska. The drive is comfortable, with room for conversation or quiet reflection. Once at Rundale Palace, you’ll meet a local guide who will lead a private tour of the palace interior, explaining its architecture and history.

After exploring the palace, you’ll have some free time to walk through the French gardens—a peaceful spot perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Then, you’ll continue your journey into Lithuania, arriving at the Hill of Crosses, where you’ll have ample time to explore at your own pace.

The entire day is designed to be flexible and engaging. The transportation is private, ensuring comfort and convenience, with the driver handling all logistics. The tour duration offers a full day, roughly departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, making it suitable for those who don’t want to spend the night away. Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring snacks or plan a meal break — there are usually options near the sites.

The language options include English and German, which broadens accessibility. Booking is flexible; you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand.

Insights From Reviews

The reviews reflect a generally positive experience, with a 4.2 out of 5 rating based on six reviews. One traveler describes it as “a great experience with a great guide,” noting the richness of the storytelling at Rundale Palace. The gardens received praise for their beauty, and the emotional power of the Hill of Crosses is universally acknowledged.

However, one reviewer’s experience underscores the importance of choosing a guide who stays focused on the sites rather than drifting into unrelated topics. “Guide kept talking about his political views,” they said. It’s worth keeping in mind that the quality of the guide can make or break your experience, so if you’re sensitive to commentary outside the main subject, it’s worth asking ahead.

Another traveler appreciated the local insights shared during the drive, including details about local forests and foraging, which added a charming personal touch to the day. The combination of detailed storytelling and authentic interactions is clearly what makes this tour special.

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The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Baltic Day Trip

This private tour from Riga offers a wonderful balance of architecture, history, and spiritual culture. You’ll enjoy the grandeur of Rundale Palace, with its ornate rooms and meticulously kept gardens, and then shift gears to the Hill of Crosses, a place that embodies resilience and faith. The personal guides and private transportation ensure a comfortable, tailored experience that’s ideal for those who value depth and authenticity.

While the drive is a significant part of the day, it’s also an opportunity to relax and absorb the scenic transition from Latvian fields to Lithuanian hills. The highlights—the elegant palace, lush gardens, and powerful spiritual site—make the cost worthwhile, especially for travelers eager for a meaningful, well-organized day out.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling, enjoy exploring UNESCO sites with emotional resonance, and prefer the flexibility and comfort of a private guide. If you’re seeking a full-day experience that combines cultural richness with scenic beauty, this tour will deliver in spades.

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FAQ

What is included in the price of $399?
The fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a private guided tour of Rundale Palace and admission to the palace itself. It does not include food or drinks.

How long does the tour last?
It is a full-day experience, typically starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, allowing ample time at each site.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with about two hours of driving and walking at each site, this private tour is accessible for most.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English and German, giving options for different travelers’ preferences.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled date for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly for snacks or meals during the day.

Is there a limit to group size?
Since this is a private experience, it’s tailored to your party, ensuring a more personalized and intimate visit.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery and meaningful sites.

This tour offers a compelling mix of regal splendor and heartfelt history, making it a memorable addition to your Baltic adventure. Whether you’re captivated by Rundale Palace’s elegance or moved by the spiritual power of the Hill of Crosses, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Latvia and Lithuania’s unique stories.