Group Tour: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace & Bauska Castle

Experience Latvia’s Heritage with a Full-Day Guided Tour of the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle

This thoughtfully curated day trip from Riga offers a chance to explore some of Latvia’s most iconic sights—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—all in about eight hours. For $136.37 per person, you get a mix of spiritual symbolism, baroque grandeur, and medieval history, making it a well-rounded introduction to Latvia’s cultural treasures. With a small group of up to 16 travelers, guided by friendly and knowledgeable experts, you’ll find this trip both comfortable and insightful.

What we really love about this tour are the personalized commentary from the guide—who, based on reviews, goes above and beyond with stories and surprises—and the stunning visuals at every stop, especially the sweeping views from Bauska’s tower. The inclusion of a delicious local meal adds a tasty, authentic touch to the day, rounding out the experience.

One thing to consider is that sometimes museum access can be disrupted, such as when Bauska Castle’s museum was closed for holidays, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to see every feature. This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic landscapes and value a well-organized day with a friendly guide. It’s especially good for those who want a richer, more personal perspective than a self-guided visit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning, WiFi, and a small group size enhances the experience.
• Expert guides like Erlens make history come alive with stories and surprises.
• Visits to iconic sites that symbolize Latvia’s resilient spirituality and elegant architecture.
• Flexible itinerary with time at each site for reflection, photos, and exploring.
• Authentic Latvian cuisine ensures you taste local flavors and enjoy a true cultural experience.
• Good value for money when considering the included entrance fees and guided insights.

Exploring Latvia’s Highlights: A Deep Dive into the Tour

The Hill of Crosses: A Sacred Symbol of Resilience

Our journey begins at the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s both visually striking and emotionally powerful. Located just outside Šiauliai in Lithuania, this pilgrimage spot has been gathering crosses for nearly two centuries. The exact origins are murky, but what’s clear is that it’s a testament to faith and perseverance.

As the guide describes, this is no ordinary shrine. The wind stirs the thousands of crosses—made of metal, wood, and other materials—creating a gentle, melodic clatter that echo spiritual devotion. Visitors leave crosses, photographs, and rosaries, making it a living monument of hope and remembrance. Reviews highlight how captivating and awe-inspiring it is, especially for those interested in spiritual symbols. One traveler noted, “It truly is awe-inspiring,” emphasizing the emotional impact of the site.

While the site itself is free to visit, the atmosphere is what makes it special. It’s a place where you can feel the collective hopes of countless visitors, and it’s a reminder of the resilience of faith, even in the face of adversity.

A Brief Stop at the Lithuanian-Latvian Border

Next, we pause at the border for a quick photo. It’s only about ten minutes, but it adds a fun element to the trip—standing between two countries, capturing the moment as you cross from Lithuania into Latvia. This small stop is a simple yet meaningful way to appreciate the journey’s broader regional context.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Baroque Jewel

The highlight for many is the Rundale Palace, a true masterpiece of Baroque architecture designed by the renowned Francesco Rastrelli. Built between 1736 and 1740, the palace is often compared to Versailles for its elegance and grandeur.

Inside, you’ll find ornate rooms with gilded details, intricate ceiling frescoes, and period furnishings that transport you to the 18th century. The French-style gardens add a lush, peaceful backdrop, perfect for photos and strolls. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s commentary—describing Erlens as “fantastically knowledgeable”—and the chance to explore the opulent interiors and expansive grounds.

The two hours here provide ample time to see the main highlights and imagine the life of Latvia’s aristocrats. If you’re a lover of architecture or history, Rundale is a must-see; it’s often called Latvia’s top palace, and for good reason.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Strength with Panoramic Rewards

The final stop is Bauska Castle, a site with a layered past. Its 15th-century Livonian Order ruins evoke medieval strength, while the more recent Residence of the Dukes of Courland adds a touch of Renaissance flair.

Most travelers love climbing the renovated tower for the panoramic views, which the tour’s reviews note as breathtaking. It’s a perfect way to end the day—standing high above the landscape, taking in the patchwork of fields and forests. The castle’s ruins and the nearby structures give a sense of Latvia’s strategic history and resilience through centuries.

Tasting Latvian Flavors

Throughout the day, the tour includes stops at select dining spots where you can sample local cuisine. Many reviews mention how delicious and authentic the food is—highlighting the value of this included experience. It’s a chance to savor regional flavors, which enhances the culture and makes the trip more memorable.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour is well-organized, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan that includes WiFi—helpful for sharing photos or catching up on messages. The group size keeps things intimate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Keep in mind that sometimes access to certain sites (like Bauska’s museum) may be limited, especially during holidays, which was noted in some reviews. It’s wise to go with flexible expectations, focusing on the amazing views, storytelling, and the atmosphere.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This trip suits travelers eager to see Latvia’s cultural landmarks without the hassle of planning separate day trips. It’s ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes. The guides are praised for their storytelling, making it perfect for visitors who appreciate a personal touch and stories that bring history to life.

If you enjoy good food, meaningful sites, and a comfortably paced day, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Latvian culture and heritage.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Yes, especially if you value insightful guides, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural experiences. The combination of spiritual sites like the Hill of Crosses, the regal beauty of Rundale Palace, and the medieval charm of Bauska Castle offers a balanced look at Latvia’s past and present.

The price reflects a good deal when you consider the transportation, guided commentary, entrance fees, and included meals, all in a small-group setting. Reviewers consistently describe the experience as “a full day of exploration with rich stories,” and many emphasize how the personal guidance made a difference.

For anyone keen on discovering Latvia beyond Riga’s city center—whether history buffs, architecture lovers, or those simply wanting memorable landscapes—this tour offers a comprehensive, enjoyable, and value-packed day. Pack comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a day filled with stories, sights, and flavors that will stay with you long after you return home.