Mini Baltic Tour: Riga – Rundale – Hill of Crosses

Mini Baltic Tour: Riga – Rundale – Hill of Crosses
Location: Samogitia, Lithuania
Country: Lithuania
Rating: 4.2
Supplier: AroundLatvia
Price & Duration: Approximately 8 hours; check availability for start times and prices

A Quick Look at the Experience
This tour takes you on a day trip from Riga to explore three of the most captivating sights in the Baltic region: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the iconic Hill of Crosses. The journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup around 10:00 AM, making it accessible and straightforward for travelers based in Riga. For just a day’s commitment, we get a generous taste of Latvia and Lithuania’s history, architecture, and spiritual sites—all in a comfortable minivan with a dedicated driver.

What we love about this tour are two things in particular: First, the stunning architecture of Rundale Palace, which showcases a blend of Baroque and Rococo styles, along with its meticulously maintained gardens. Second, the Hill of Crosses, a place that’s not only visually striking but also embodies deep spiritual meaning—a place we find both inspiring and humbling.

A possible consideration is the short time allocated at each stop, especially Bauska Castle, which might feel rushed if you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore every detail. Also, since the tour does not include guided narrations (guides are available for extra cost), those seeking a deeply narrated experience may find it somewhat limited. Overall, it suits travelers who prefer a well-organized overview with the flexibility to explore more on their own afterward.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, architecture, and spiritual sites without committing to multiple days. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Riga and want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip that covers key highlights in neighboring Latvia and Lithuania.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your Riga hotel make this tour hassle-free.
• Includes three major stops: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses, each with unique cultural and historical significance.
• Guided tours at Rundale Palace can be booked additionally, offering deeper insight into its beautiful architecture and gardens.
• Travel time is well-planned: about one hour to Bauska, 25 minutes to the Hill of Crosses, allowing enough time at each site.
• The Hill of Crosses offers a powerful visual experience, with thousands of crosses symbolizing faith and hope.
• Suitable for private groups and travelers with mobility considerations, as the activity is wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: From Riga to Bauska Castle

The adventure begins with a comfortable minivan ride from your Riga hotel at around 10:00 AM. The drive itself is pleasant, giving you a chance to anticipate the day ahead. After about an hour, you’ll arrive at Bauska Castle, where you can explore the ruins of the original medieval fortress and the more recent residence of the Dukes of Courland. The site offers a tangible sense of medieval history, with stone walls and scenic views over the river.

Some reviews mention that the stop here is optional, which suggests you can choose to spend more or less time exploring. If you’re interested in history, you’ll appreciate the chance to walk among the ruins and imagine how the castle once served as a strategic point.

Rundale Palace: The Day’s Highlight

Next, you’ll head to Rundale Palace, arriving around 12:15 PM. This is the tour’s star attraction, and for good reason. Built in the 18th century, Rundale’s Baroque and Rococo architecture is a feast for the eyes. Its lavish interiors, elegant gardens, and impressive museums showcase the grandeur of the Baltic aristocratic lifestyle.

You can opt for a guided tour (for an extra cost), which we recommend if you want to understand the stories behind each room and the palace’s history. Otherwise, you’ll have ample time to wander through the lavish halls, admire the exquisite stucco work, and stroll in the meticulously maintained gardens. Several reviews highlight that the palace’s architecture and gardens are breathtaking, making it a highlight for lovers of art and design.

The Hill of Crosses: A Spiritual Encounter

The last stop, the Hill of Crosses, is about 70 kilometers outside Latvia, arriving around 3:00 PM. This site is nothing short of astonishing—a hill covered with thousands of crosses, representing faith, hope, and resistance. It’s considered one of the most sacred and visually striking places in the region.

Visitors describe it as “exciting, spiritual, and deeply moving”. The crosses vary from tiny tokens to large, elaborate structures. It’s a place where many come to pray or leave a cross as a symbol of their faith. The site also has a history of being a symbol of Lithuanian resistance during times of oppression, adding historical significance to its spiritual appeal.

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Return to Riga

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Riga, arriving around 5:00 PM. This gives you a full day of sightseeing without feeling overly rushed, and the timing allows for some reflection on the day’s experiences.

What Does the Price Cover?

The tour price includes transportation in a minivan, the driver, local taxes, and fuel. It does not include entrance fees or guided tours at Rundale Palace, which are optional extras. This setup gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace or enrich your experience with guides if desired.

It’s worth noting that reviews often mention the value of having a private group, which means you enjoy a more personalized and flexible experience compared to large bus tours.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

• Timing is key: The tour starts at 10:00 AM, so plan to be ready for pickup around that time.
• Bring your passport: Since the Hill of Crosses is just outside Latvia, a passport is necessary for border crossing.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially when walking around the ruins and the palace grounds.
• Extra costs: Budget for entrance fees and guided tours if you want a deeper understanding of Rundale Palace.
• Wheelchair accessible: The tour is suitable for travelers with mobility needs, though it’s wise to check specific access at each site.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and cultural insights in a manageable day trip setting. It’s ideal for those who prefer a private, flexible schedule and want to see highlights without the hassle of arranging transport or guides themselves. It’s also a good choice for people interested in spiritual sites, as the Hill of Crosses offers a deeply moving experience.

If you’re traveling with a group or family who want a guided, hassle-free way to see some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sites, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

The Mini Baltic Tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into the region’s past and present, with a focus on notable sites of architectural beauty and spiritual significance. You’ll love the stunning interiors and gardens of Rundale Palace and the powerful atmosphere of the Hill of Crosses. The tour’s flexibility, private group setting, and the scenic drive make for a comfortable, enriching day.

While it’s not designed as an in-depth historical exploration—more a broad overview—it’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to soak in the highlights. The fact that guides are available for extra insight means you can tailor the experience to your interests when you choose.

If you’re craving a balanced, authentic experience that touches on history, architecture, and spirituality, this tour will serve you well. It’s a delightful way to connect with the Baltic’s cultural soul, all within a day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the tour is designed as a private group with wheelchair accessibility, making it suitable for families, seniors, and travelers with mobility considerations.

How long is the drive between each stop?
The drive from Riga to Bauska takes about an hour, the transfer to the Hill of Crosses is roughly 70 km, with travel times of around 25 minutes to the hill from Rundale.

Are guided tours included at the sites?
Guided tours at Rundale Palace are available for an extra fee. The tour itself is self-guided, but guides can be booked for more in-depth explanations.

What should I bring with me?
A passport is required for border crossing. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the ruins and palace grounds.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
Since the tour is private, you can discuss with your driver or guide about extra time at certain sites or additional stops, if available.

What is not included in the price?
Entrance fees to Rundale Palace and guided tours are not included, so budget accordingly if you want guided explanations.

Is food or drink provided?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so consider bringing water and possibly a snack, especially during the longer visit at Rundale Palace.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provider’s booking platform—simply select your preferred date and time, and pay later if you wish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a taste of Baltic history, art, and faith, all within a well-paced, comfortable journey. It’s perfect if you want a personal, insightful introduction to some of the region’s most cherished sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: