2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska castle

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, architecture, and a touch of the spiritual, this tour from Riga is a compelling option. It offers an efficient way to visit landmarks in two countries while enjoying the comfort of a guided experience. From medieval castles to baroque palaces and a famous pilgrimage site, you’ll cover a lot of ground—literally and figuratively—in around eight hours.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility it offers—whether it’s capturing photos at the border, wandering freely around Rundale Palace, or leaving your own cross on the Hill of Crosses. The guides seem knowledgeable, and the sights promise a blend of fairy-tale castles and meaningful cultural landmarks. On the downside, it’s a group tour, so if you’re someone craving complete independence or more time at specific sites, this might feel a bit rushed.

This experience suits travelers who love history, architecture, and authentic cultural encounters but prefer a well-organized, hassle-free day. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to see a broad slice of Baltic heritage. Families, solo travelers, and couples will find it offers good value and a memorable snapshot of the region.

Key Points

• Visit two countries in one day, making efficient use of your time and seeing more of the Baltic region.
• Comfortable transport with a small group, focusing on relaxed exploration rather than rushing.
• Flexible free time at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses helps you enjoy the sites at your own pace.
• Authentic experiences like adding your own cross to the Hill of Crosses or exploring castle ruins.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and stories, making history come alive.
• Good value with included tickets for key sites, but note that lunch is not included.

The Full Experience: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point and Transportation

Kicking off at Reformcijas Laukums in Riga, the tour begins promptly at 8:00 am. The fact that it’s a shared ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with a maximum of 18 travelers makes it a cozy, intimate experience. No overcrowding here—just enough people to keep the conversation lively but still enjoy personal space. Reviews highlight guides like Janis and Krista as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

The drive itself is a highlight, as you get to sit back, relax, and take in the scenic countryside. The route is well-paced, with some reviews mentioning stops at borders and extra photo opportunities, making the journey part of the adventure, not just transportation.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Marvel

The first stop is Bauska Castle, a fortress dating back centuries that many compare to a scene from “Game of Thrones.” The castle’s recent renovations have made the viewing tower accessible again, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the ruins, climb the tower, and snap some great photos—something that reviewers like Grant and Lara have enjoyed.

The castle’s ruins give you a tangible feel of medieval Latvia. Its strategic location makes it an interesting spot to understand the region’s history of conflicts and defenses. The 30-minute visit allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling hurried.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles

Next is Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s answer to Versailles, and for good reason. The baroque architecture, opulent interiors, and manicured gardens make this a highlight of the day. The two-hour visit includes entry tickets, so you can freely explore the palace, its grounds, and the French-style gardens.

Many reviews rave about how uncrowded it is, allowing for peaceful wandering and fantastic photo opportunities. Reviewers mention that the palace is stunning both inside and out, with ample free time to explore at your own pace or enjoy a leisurely lunch in the palace restaurant (though bringing your own food is an option if you’d prefer). The gardens are especially praised for their symmetry and beauty, perfect for snapping memorable pictures.

Latvia-Lithuania Border Stop

A quick five-minute stop at the border is included, mainly for photo opportunities. This small break is appreciated by travelers like David, who enjoyed the chance to capture the moment and stretch their legs. It’s a practical addition that adds a dash of international flavor without taking up much time.

Hill of Crosses: A Moving Pilgrimage Site

The final big stop is Kryziu Kalnas—more famously known as the Hill of Crosses. This site is an emotional, almost surreal landscape dotted with thousands of crosses left by pilgrims and visitors over decades. Many reviewers find it to be a profoundly moving experience; Ashwin describes it as a “breath-taking” place, and Lara calls it an “eye-opener.”

You’re free to walk around, take photos, and leave your own cross if you wish. It’s a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and resilience, making it a highlight for many. The hour-long visit allows enough time to absorb the atmosphere, reflect, and snap some photographs without feeling rushed.

Flexibility and Personal Touches

The tour’s design allows for personal exploration at key sites. Unlike some group tours, you’re encouraged to spend as much time as you like at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses. Reviews from solo travelers and families alike emphasize the value of this freedom—whether it’s taking extra photos, wandering gardens, or simply soaking in the scene.

What’s Not Included?

Lunch isn’t part of the package, so bring snacks or plan to eat at Rundale Palace’s restaurant if you wish. Reviewers note that the palace’s café has limited options, so packing a picnic or snacks might be wise for those wanting to maximize their sightseeing time.

Overall Value and Experience

At $151.17 per person, the tour offers a lot of value, considering the included tickets for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, plus transportation and a knowledgeable guide. The reviews consistently praise guides like Krista and Yanis for their friendly attitude and ability to keep the group engaged, which enhances the experience.

Some travelers mention minor criticisms—such as wishing for more time at Rundale Palace or a more detailed guide experience. However, many find the balance of sightseeing, free exploration, and scenic drives perfectly suited for a day trip from Riga.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour can be a perfect fit for history buffs, architecture lovers, and travelers wanting a meaningful cultural experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see highlights in Latvia and Lithuania. Families and solo travelers will appreciate the intimate group size and flexible pacing, and anyone interested in pilgrimage sites or stunning palaces will find it rewarding.

If you prefer to tailor your visit or spend more time at certain locations, private tours might be better. But for a well-organized, value-packed day that includes a variety of sights, this trip hits many marks.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Many travelers bring snacks or plan to eat at Rundale Palace, as the palace café has limited options.

How long is the total tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 8 am and returning to Riga in the late afternoon.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 18 travelers, making it small enough for personal interaction and relaxed pacing.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Yes, admission tickets for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are included. The Hill of Crosses has free entry.

Can I leave my own cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely. Visitors are encouraged to leave crosses as part of the site’s tradition, making it a personal and meaningful stop.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers find this tour enjoyable, especially with the small group size and flexible schedule.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended, especially at the castle ruins and Palace gardens. Bring a jacket if the weather is unpredictable.

This guided day trip from Riga offers a thoughtfully curated balance of history, culture, and spirituality, all wrapped in a comfortable package. Whether you’re after stunning architecture, a chance to reflect at a pilgrimage site, or just a well-organized way to see some of the Baltic region’s most famous landmarks, this tour delivers.