Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundle Palace, & Bauska Castle Tour

Travel from Riga to two countries in one day on this popular full-day tour, which covers the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, Rundale Palace in Latvia, and Bauska Castle. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get a taste of history, architecture, and scenic views—all in approximately 8 hours. The total cost is quite reasonable for the comprehensive experience, and reviews consistently praise the professional guides and the well-paced itinerary.

What we love about this trip is how you get to see such diverse sights, from the spiritual ambiance of the Hill of Crosses to the grandeur of Rundale Palace, plus the panoramic vistas from Bauska Castle’s tower. The small-group atmosphere keeps things intimate and informative. However, keep in mind that crossing borders and traveling between sites means you’ll spend some time in transit, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond Riga’s city limits, but it’s especially well-suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in seeing two countries in one trip. If you enjoy guided storytelling, scenic drives, and authentic cultural sites, this trip will deliver.

Key Points

• Includes visits to three iconic sites: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with storytelling and insights.
• Comfortable transport with WiFi makes the journey pleasant.
• Flexible schedule allows ample time for exploration and photos.
• Value for money given the comprehensive itinerary and included entry tickets.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Visiting the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Starting from Riga, the first major stop is the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s as visually striking as it is meaningful. We loved the way our guide explained the origins of the thousands of crosses—some small, some towering—scattered across a gentle hill. It’s a place where people have left crosses for decades, symbolizing faith, hope, and remembrance. The atmosphere is quiet but emotionally charged, reminiscent of places like Jerusalem’s Western Wall, where personal stories and universal hopes mingle.

This stop includes a guided tour and free time for photos or quiet reflection. Travel reviews highlight how the silence and the thousands of crosses make for a moving experience. Be prepared for a bit of walking and lots of photo opportunities. It’s a place that invites personal connection, and the guide’s stories add depth, making it more than just a scenic stop.

Exploring Rundale Palace and Its Gardens

Next, after crossing the border into Latvia, you’ll visit Rundale Palace, considered the Latvian equivalent of Versailles for its ornate Baroque architecture and sprawling gardens. You’ll appreciate the skip-the-line entry tickets and the guided tour, which is led by a guide in period costume, adding a theatrical flair to the experience.

We loved the opulent interiors, filled with elaborate furnishings and artwork, and the carefully maintained gardens. There’s plenty of free time to wander at your own pace, take photos, or simply soak in the beauty of this historic residence. Reviews mention how the palace’s grandeur and the knowledgeable guide make it memorable, and having lunch within the estate adds a special touch—many find this enhances the overall value.

Climbing Bauska Castle’s Tower for Panoramic Views

The final focus is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress perched at the confluence of two rivers. The highlight is climbing the recently renovated tower, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a short but rewarding climb—think of it as the perfect way to cap the day with a visual summary of the Latvian landscape.

While the castle itself might seem more modest compared to Rundale Palace, the views are worth the effort. Travelers often mention how the panoramic vistas provide a great photo opportunity and a sense of the region’s terrain. Afterward, the group heads back to Riga, with some time to reflect on everything seen and learned.

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Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles that are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, making the long drives more enjoyable. WiFi is available onboard, so you can share your photos or check maps while on the move. The driver and guide work seamlessly together to keep the schedule on track, and reviews commend the calm, confident driving.

Timing and Pacing

With about 2 hours at the Hill of Crosses, around 2 hours at Rundale Palace (including guided tour), and nearly an hour at Bauska Castle, the schedule strikes a good balance between sightseeing and travel. The stops are designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

Cost and Value

At a price that includes entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, plus transportation and a guided tour, this trip offers excellent value. The reviews frequently mention the high quality of guides and the carefully curated stops as making it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and walking. It appeals to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers who want to see more than just Riga in one trip. The small-group setting, averaging around 86 reviews with a high rating of 4.9/5, ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Many reviews emphasize the knowledge and personable nature of the guides. Comments like “Erlen’s was great at storytelling” and “Orlando was always informing us about the history” showcase the importance of good narration. Travelers also appreciate the well-paced schedule, with enough time at each site to explore and take photos, but not so much that you feel exhausted.

The scenic views from Bauska’s tower are frequently praised, with visitors describing them as “beautiful” and “a perfect way to end the day.” Several reviewers mention how the lunch at Rundale Palace made the experience even more memorable, blending sightseeing with a taste of local cuisine.

The Sum Up

This Riga day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse of Latvia and Lithuania, combining cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes. The expert guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtfully planned itinerary make it an excellent choice for curious travelers who want to explore beyond the city.

If you enjoy learning stories behind historic sites, capturing memorable photographs, and experiencing authentic local sites without the hassle of organizing your own transport or tickets, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s particularly good value considering the inclusive entry fees and the personalized attention from guides.

While the day is packed, most reviewers agree it’s a rewarding way to spend a day, especially if you appreciate a mix of history, beauty, and picturesque views. The only thing to consider is the full schedule, so be ready for a day that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned cars or vans that are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, making the long drives pleasant.

Do I need my own tickets?
No, the entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle are included, so you skip the lines and focus on enjoying the sites.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with ample time at each site to explore without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, and some cash or card if you want to buy souvenirs or snacks.

Is lunch included?
No, but the tour provides excellent recommendations for local cuisine, and there’s time during the day to stop for a meal.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely. The stops at scenic sites like the Hill of Crosses and Bauska Castle are perfect for photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children who enjoy walking and sightseeing should find it engaging, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full day and some travel.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people over 95 years old or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides who are fluent and engaging.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: