From Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundale &Bauska Private Day Trip

Planning a day to explore the Baltic’s hidden gems can feel overwhelming, but a well-organized private trip from Riga makes it surprisingly easy and rewarding. This particular tour promises visits to some of the region’s most iconic sights—without the hassle of navigating solo or sticking to a rigid group schedule. Instead, you get the flexibility and comfort of a private driver while soaking in history, culture, and stunning scenery.

What we love about this experience is how it effortlessly combines spirituality, art, and medieval history into one manageable day. You’ll visit the famous Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, admire the ornate Rundale Palace, and wander through the atmospheric Bauska Castle ruins. Plus, you get to enjoy a hearty lunch at a cozy local restaurant, which adds a delicious, authentic touch.

The only consideration? The tour is not guided, so if you’re after detailed commentary at each stop, you might want to arrange for a licensed guide separately. This trip suits travelers who prefer a flexible, comfortable way to tick off multiple sights in one day—perfect if you love history, architecture, and scenic drives without the crowds.

Key Points

• Comfort & Flexibility: Private transportation with a dedicated driver for a stress-free day.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the spiritual Hill of Crosses, stunning Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle ruins.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a local lunch and explore iconic Baltic landmarks.
• Good Value: Private trip with tailored stops at key sites, perfect for small groups or couples.
• Informative Service: Driver speaks English and provides useful tips, though no guided commentary is included.
• Timing & Duration: 8-hour journey, with customizable start times (check availability).

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Pickup & Start in Riga

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Riga accommodation. The driver, who speaks English, arrives about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure with a clear sign, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free. Since this is a private experience, your timing can be flexible, though the typical duration is around 8 hours.

First Stop: The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Your first destination is the famous Hill of Crosses, a site packed with thousands of crosses—large, small, old, new—that cover a hillside. This location holds immense spiritual significance for Lithuanians, symbolizing faith, resilience, and hope. Walking through this sea of crosses, you’ll feel the profound energy that has accumulated over decades.

One reviewer, Günter, shared that “Martins was a very good and friendly tour guide, with interesting stories and conversations.” While this particular trip is not guided, having a knowledgeable driver like Martins makes a big difference, especially when he can provide background information and suggest the best photo spots. Expect about an hour here to absorb the atmosphere and take photos without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Rundale Palace

Next, the journey takes you to Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s answer to a fairytale castle. Its architectural grandeur, combined with beautifully landscaped gardens, makes it a highlight of any Baltic trip. Wander through the ornate halls adorned with artwork and intricate furnishings that reflect the Baroque and Rococo styles. The gardens, with their vibrant flowerbeds, winding pathways, and fountains, invite leisurely strolling.

Guests love the regal feeling here. The experience of standing in rooms once used by dukes, surrounded by detailed craftsmanship, transports you back in time. The driver will drop you off and wait while you explore for around 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the palace’s splendor and snap scenic photos.

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Third Stop: Bauska Castle Ruins

Your final stop is Bauska Castle, with its weathered stone walls and panoramic views along the Musa and Memele rivers. The ruins evoke a sense of medieval Latvia, offering both a glimpse into old defensive architecture and sweeping river vistas. It’s a perfect place for history buffs and those who enjoy atmospheric ruins.

Many visitors note that walking through the weathered stones gives a tangible connection to the past. You’ll have approximately an hour to wander, explore the remnants, and imagine what life was like centuries ago. The views from the castle walls are often highlighted as a memorable part of the experience.

Return to Riga

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to your Riga accommodation, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. Throughout the day, bottled water is provided, keeping you refreshed, and the private nature of the trip means you can pause or adjust the itinerary slightly if desired.

Price & Value

This private day trip offers excellent value for those seeking comfort and flexibility. The cost covers transportation, the driver’s time, and water, but note that entrance tickets to the castles and lunch are not included. While this might seem like an added expense, the convenience of having a private vehicle, personalized timing, and a knowledgeable driver often outweighs the cost for many travelers.

One reviewer, Günter, shared that “thanks to it being the off-season, we were mostly the only travelers, which meant we got some great photos.” This highlights one of the tour’s benefits—avoiding crowded sites and enjoying them at your own pace.

Additional Considerations

If you’re particularly interested in detailed historical insights, you may want to consider booking optional guided services at each site. The driver can recommend local guides, but this will be an extra expense. The tour itself is not guided, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable exploring on their own or with self-guided materials.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking quite a bit, especially at Bauska and Rundale.
• Bring a camera: The scenery and architecture are perfect for photos, especially the palace gardens and river views.
• Book in advance: Availability can vary, and securing your preferred start time ensures a smooth experience.
• Consider the weather: This tour is outdoor-heavy, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Think about lunch: While the tour includes a recommended local restaurant, you might want to specify dietary preferences in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple highlights of Latvia and Lithuania without the hassle of self-driving or guided tours constrained by group schedules. It suits history and architecture lovers, as well as those seeking a relaxed, scenic day out. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting personalized attention, this trip offers a great mix of culture and comfort.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private day trip from Riga provides a rich, thoughtfully curated snapshot of the Baltic region’s spiritual, architectural, and medieval heritage. The convenience of private transport, combined with visits to Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses and Latvia’s stunning Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an authentic, flexible experience.

The ability to avoid crowds, enjoy scenic drives, and take your time exploring each site adds tremendous value. The knowledgeable driver’s tips and local restaurant recommendations further enhance the day, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s an opportunity to connect with Baltic culture comfortably and authentically.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to experience some of the region’s most meaningful landmarks, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, and who value personalized service over large-group bustle.

FAQ

Is this tour guided?
No, the tour is not guided, but your driver speaks English and provides useful information and recommendations throughout the day. If you want a guided experience at each site, you can arrange for licensed guides independently.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, pick-up and drop-off at your Riga accommodation, and bottled water. Entrance tickets to the castles and lunch are not included.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with the itinerary including about an hour at the Hill of Crosses, 1.5 hours at Rundale Palace, and an hour at Bauska Castle.

Can I customize the start time?
Yes, check availability as the start times are flexible, and you can choose what suits your schedule best.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The trip involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity. However, it can be enjoyed by most age groups with appropriate footwear and comfort.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your preferred date and time, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

This private Baltic adventure offers an excellent balance of comfort, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers eager to see Latvia and Lithuania with ease and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: