Riga: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Trip

A Perfect Day Trip to Latvia and Lithuania: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and Hill of Crosses

Travelers looking to see a good chunk of Latvia and Lithuania without dedicating days to it will find this tour a solid choice. For around 9 hours, you’ll visit Bauska Medieval Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses, covering some of the most visually stunning and culturally significant sites in the Baltics. Guided by knowledgeable drivers and equipped with helpful printed materials, this trip makes it easy to explore these highlights comfortably and efficiently.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with authentic cultural experiences. The chance to climb the recently renovated Bauska castle tower offers a fascinating peek into medieval life, while Rundale Palace’s grandeur will remind you of European aristocratic splendor. The Hill of Crosses provides a unique, almost surreal, experience filled with personal meaning for many visitors.

One possible consideration is that the tour runs only if at least three people book, so it’s worth checking availability early if you’re traveling in a smaller group. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your own snacks or budget for a meal at Rundale Palace’s restaurant.

This experience suits curious travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day of sightseeing with a mix of history, architecture, and local culture. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning on the go and appreciate having a knowledgeable guide and helpful materials at their fingertips.

Key Points

• Visit two countries in one day, Latvia and Lithuania, with ease.
• Explore three iconic sites: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses.
• Enjoy expert guidance and detailed printed information about each location.
• Flexible self-guided time at Rundale Palace, including the opportunity to enjoy lunch or explore the gardens.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern van with an English-speaking driver.
• Ideal for travelers who want an easy, informative, and scenic day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is crafted to maximize your time and cover some of the most photogenic and meaningful sites in Latvia and Lithuania. Starting from St. Peter’s Church in Riga Old Town, the journey begins with a comfortable van ride, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

First stop: Bauska Medieval Castle (about 40 minutes from Riga). Here, you can climb the recently renovated tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As one reviewer said, “Our driver/guide Viesturs was at the agreed location on time and accompanied us throughout the day. He explained many sights to us and it was a very interesting excursion.” The castle ruins themselves are evocative of medieval life, and climbing the tower gives you a sense of the strategic importance this site once held.

From Bauska, you’ll cross the Latvia-Lithuania border — a quick checkpoint that adds a bit of excitement and the chance to tick off two countries in one trip. Expect a brief stop for a photo at the border crossing, adding a fun, geographical element to your day.

Next, you’ll head to Rundale Palace (about an hour from Bauska). Often called the “little Versailles of the Baltics,” Rundale Palace impresses with its elegant architecture and beautifully maintained gardens. You’ll have around two hours here, during which you can enjoy a self-guided tour using the provided audio guide (accessible on your phone with free Wi-Fi at the site). Many reviews highlight the value of having no queues and plenty of time to soak in the palace’s charm. As one traveler put it, “Everything was very well organized, am glad I booked the tour.”

You can also choose to have lunch at the palace restaurant during your free time — a great way to relax and appreciate the surroundings. Alternatively, bringing snacks is an option if you prefer to maximize your sightseeing or save time.

Afterward, the journey continues to the Hill of Crosses (about 40 minutes from Rundale Palace). This site is truly unlike any other — thousands of crosses of all sizes, shapes, and materials line the hillside, symbolizing faith, hope, and remembrance. You’ll have an hour to walk around, take photos, and reflect. The tour includes an audio guide that explains the significance of this unique place, and you’re welcome to bring your own cross or purchase one from vendors onsite.

Finally, the trip concludes with a short drive back to St. Peter’s Church, completing a full day of sightseeing and culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert guidance and well-organized logistics are frequently praised in reviews. Many travelers mention Viesturs, the driver-guide, as being friendly, informative, and punctual. With printed materials about each site, you’ll have a handy reference to deepen your understanding of the places you visit.

The scenic route—including the border crossing—adds an element of adventure, and the balance of structured time and free exploration means you can enjoy each site at your own pace. The no-queue entry to Rundale Palace is a major perk, especially during peak season when lines can be long.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour provides comfortable transportation in a modern van, which is crucial over a full day. The driver remains with you, ensuring easy transitions between sites and a relaxed atmosphere. This setup means you don’t have to worry about navigation or parking, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the experience.

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The Price and Value

While the cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest the tour offers good value for money considering the inclusions—entrance tickets, printed guides, audio guides, and transport. Since you get to visit significant sites in two countries with minimal hassle, it’s a cost-effective way to see some of the Baltic region’s highlights.

The Experience of the Sites

• Bauska Castle offers not just history but a chance to climb and take in expansive views. It’s a tangible piece of medieval Latvia, and many find the recent renovations make it especially accessible.
• Rundale Palace is visually stunning and offers a glimpse into aristocratic life, with gardens perfect for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection.
• Hill of Crosses is profoundly moving and photogenic, with its thousands of crosses creating an almost surreal landscape. It’s a place that invites personal reflection and a bit of spiritual curiosity.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

Reviews highlight how the guides’ explanations and printed materials deepen your understanding, making the trip not just sightseeing but an educational experience. The opportunity to learn about local traditions, history, and the significance of the Crosses enhances the authenticity of the trip.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, accessible experience that covers history, architecture, and spirituality without the hassle of planning. It suits those with limited time in the Baltics but who want meaningful encounters with Latvian and Lithuanian culture.

If you’re a fan of scenic views, historic sites, and unique landmarks, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially appreciated by travelers who value expert guidance and being part of a small, friendly group.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to get a snapshot of Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural treasures in a single day, this tour hits the mark. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and spirituality in a convenient, well-organized package. With knowledgeable guides, smooth transportation, and a chance to explore sites like Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses, you’ll come away with a richer understanding of the Baltics’ diverse heritage.

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences without extensive travel planning, and for those who want a comfortable, educational day out. The balance of guided insight and free time at Rundale Palace makes it particularly appealing to visitors eager to soak in the sights at their own pace.

Overall, it’s a rewarding way to see Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights—worth every euro for the memorable views, cultural insights, and the simple joy of a well-run adventure.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, from departure in the morning to returning in the late afternoon.

What are the main sites visited?
Bauska Medieval Castle, Rundale Palace and Gardens, and the Hill of Crosses.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can bring snacks or buy a meal at Rundale Palace’s restaurant during your free time.

Do I need my passport or ID?
Yes, it’s mandatory to bring your passport or EU ID for border inspections between Latvia and Lithuania.

What’s the group size?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the tour runs with a minimum of 3 people. The reviews suggest a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Are there audio guides?
Yes, at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses you can use audio guides on your phone, with free Wi-Fi available at the palace.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, driver, printed info sheets, entrance tickets to Rundale Palace and the castle tower, and audio guides at key sites.

Can I bring a cross to the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely, and you can also buy crosses onsite from local vendors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the sites and length suggest it’s suitable for families who enjoy cultural outings and walking.

How do I book?
Check availability and reserve your spot online; you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: