From Riga: Hill of Crosses, Bauska & Rundale Full-Day Tour

Exploring the Baltic Treasures: From Riga to the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle

This tour offers a carefully curated taste of Lithuania’s most striking sights, all wrapped into a manageable 7-hour package from Riga. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect: a mix of faith, grandeur, and medieval charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the flexibility and personal touch provided by the expert guides. Second, the chance to see three very different sites—each with its own story and atmosphere—that come together to give a well-rounded experience of the Baltics. Third, the value for money, considering the private, tailor-made approach and the inclusion of guided and free time.

A possible consideration? The length of the stops, especially at the Hill of Crosses, might be a bit brief for some. Nonetheless, this allows for a good balance of sightseeing and travel time, which is ideal for those with limited days or who prefer a less rushed pace.

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in history, architecture, and religious sites, but also for those who simply want a scenic, informative, and comfortable day trip with a private guide.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Guides provide detailed information, making each site more meaningful.
• Diverse Sights: From spiritual landmarks to opulent palaces and medieval castles, the tour covers a wide spectrum.
• Comfortable Transport: All travel is in a private van, making the long drives relaxed and hassle-free.
• Value for Money: Though entry tickets are not included, the guided experience and private group setting offer good overall value.
• Timing Flexibility: Starts with hotel pickup, with options to customize the duration at each site based on your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Transportation

The trip begins with a hotel pickup in Riga, a convenient starting point that saves you from navigating public transport or car rentals. The transportation is a private van, offering comfortable seating and a smooth ride through scenic roads. The driver and guide, often described as knowledgeable and friendly—like “Normunds” or “Juri”—are praised for punctuality and helpfulness. One reviewer mentioned that the guide “laid out site options and let us choose,” which hints at a flexible, guest-centered approach.

Since the total drive time is around two hours to the first stop, you can expect a relaxed, scenic journey. A good tip is to bring water or small snacks for the road, especially if you want to maximize your time at each site.

The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

This is the tour’s most emotionally moving stop. Located in Samogitia, the Hill of Crosses is famous for its thousands of crosses of all sizes, creating a landscape that feels both sacred and surreal. Many travelers highlight how powerful it is to stand amidst so many symbols of faith and hope.

Our reviews reveal that visitors find the site “very much worth seeing,” with one traveler remarking that the crosses tell stories of devotion and resilience. The site’s history is rich—pilgrims have been coming here for centuries to leave crosses, prayers, and wishes.

Expect about an hour here for sightseeing, photos, and a walk through the site. The guide will share insights into its significance, making the experience more meaningful. Some travelers note that this stop might feel brief—only about 15 minutes of actual sightseeing—so it’s wise to prioritize your personal interests here.

Rundale Palace: Baltic Baroque Opulence

Next, you’ll visit Rundale Palace, often described as a “Baroque masterpiece” that transports you to a different era. The palace’s ornate stucco work, gilded carvings, and frescoed ceilings are a highlight that you’ll want to take your time exploring.

The palace’s gardens are equally stunning, with vibrant blooms and well-manicured lawns. Many visitors mention the tranquility and the opportunity for a leisurely stroll, soaking in the regal atmosphere. The guided tour inside the palace reveals the grandeur of Baltic aristocracy, showcasing opulent chambers and exquisite craftsmanship.

According to reviews, this stop is highly valued; one reviewer called it “fantastic” and appreciated the free time to explore or take photos. If you’re a fan of architecture or design, Rundale Palace offers a feast of visual delights and a deep sense of history.

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Bauska Castle: Medieval Mystique

The journey into history continues at Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress that exudes old-world charm. The castle’s towers and halls are evocative of knights, duchesses, and medieval feasts. Walking through the site, you can almost hear the echoes of armor and courtly conversations.

The castle’s surrounding park, with its exotic plants and lush greenery, adds to the tranquil atmosphere. One reviewer vividly described how they “walked the same halls as nobility,” which highlights the immersive nature of this visit. Guided tours provide context and stories that make the history come alive, offering a tangible connection to the past.

The castle visit usually lasts an hour, giving ample time for sightseeing and reflection. The scenic drive back to Riga caps the day, leaving you with a sense of having traveled through time.

Overall Value and Practical Tips

This private tour is priced to reflect the personalized attention, flexible schedule, and diverse sights. While entry tickets to the castles are not included, the guided commentary and the convenience of door-to-door pickup make it a compelling option for those seeking comfort and insight.

The tour’s 7-hour duration is a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a layer of authenticity that’s often missing in larger group excursions.

The flexible timing at each site means you can prioritize places that resonate most with you. For example, if the Hill of Crosses holds special significance, you can spend more time there and skip a longer sightseeing stop elsewhere.

On top of that, the reviews highlight how the tour is excellent for those who value good conversation, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace. Many travelers appreciated the thoughtful touches like water, umbrellas, and willingness to accommodate specific preferences.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is suited to travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and cultural stories, but also those who simply want a comfortable, well-organized day with a private guide. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowds and have the flexibility to tailor the day to your interests.

History buffs will love the detailed storytelling at Bauska Castle and the significance of the Hill of Crosses. Art and architecture lovers will find Rundale Palace a visual treat, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection.

Those with limited time in the Baltics will appreciate how this tour packs in three major sights into one day, making it a highly efficient way to experience Lithuania’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour begins with pickup at your Riga hotel, making it very convenient.

How long do the stops last?
Each site typically receives about an hour of sightseeing time, with some flexibility depending on your preferences.

Are entry tickets included?
No, entry to the castles and the Hill of Crosses are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to go inside.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and Russian, offering options based on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the provider for specific mobility needs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide encourages communication of your preferences, and stops can be tailored based on your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a camera. Some reviewers suggested bringing an umbrella or sun protection depending on the weather.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

To sum it up, this private day trip from Riga to Lithuania offers an engaging, flexible, and comfortable way to explore some of the Baltics’ most evocative sites. Whether you’re fascinated by religious symbols, architectural splendor, or medieval history, the guide-led experience ensures you gain meaningful insights while enjoying the scenic journey.

Perfect for those seeking a personalized experience, this tour balances cultural depth with ease of travel, making it a highly recommended choice for a day filled with memorable discoveries.

You can check availability for your dates here: