Group Day trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Traveling beyond Riga? This well-reviewed, full-day trip offers a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving or planning. With a focus on comfort, authenticity, and insightful commentary, this tour promises to be a memorable experience — whether you’re history buff, architecture lover, or simply seeking a taste of Baltic countryside.

What we love about this tour is how it seamlessly combines stunning architecture, historic castles, and spiritual sites in one day. The small-group setting makes it more intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides. The fact that most visitors book about 25 days in advance hints at its popularity, and for good reason. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and entrance fees at a reasonable price offers excellent value for travelers wanting a comprehensive Baltic experience.

A potential consideration: the lengthy drive might be a bit tiring for some, especially if you prefer more leisurely mornings or shorter days. And while the itinerary offers free exploration time, some travelers might wish for more time at certain sites. Still, this tour is best suited for those eager to see a mix of Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights in a single day, and who appreciate guided insights along the way.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Visit landmarks in Latvia and Lithuania, including Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle, and the Hill of Crosses.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Riga hotel with air-conditioned transport.
• Authentic Insights: Guides provide rich commentary, sharing stories and background that bring each site to life.
• Flexible Exploration: Enjoy free time at each stop to explore at your own pace.
• Excellent Value: All entrance fees and comfortable transport included in the price.
• Small Group: Intimate tours with a maximum of 8 travelers allow for personalized attention.

Journey Through Latvia and Lithuania: An In-Depth Look

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour covers four key sites, each offering a different glimpse into Baltic history, culture, and spiritual life. From medieval fortresses to baroque palaces and spiritual landmarks, you’ll experience a diverse range of sights.

Bauska Castle: A Medieval Marvel

The tour kicks off with a visit to Bauska Castle, situated on a narrow land strip between the Msa and Mmele rivers. As one reviewer pointed out, the views from outside are free and stunning, making for great photo opportunities. For those interested in a deeper dive, there’s an optional €4 fee to explore the castle museum — a modest price for a richer understanding of the site’s history.

Travelers typically find the castle compelling because of its picturesque setting and medieval architecture. One reviewer mentioned that “the castle was cool as they are renovating it using traditional methods,” which adds a layer of authenticity. It’s a short stop but enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap some memorable photos.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Ornate Jewel

Next, the focus shifts to Rundale Palace, a 90-minute drive from Riga. Often called Latvia’s “Little Versailles,” this baroque masterpiece impresses with its French-style gardens and ornate architecture. Visitors love that they can explore its well-preserved interiors, filled with authentic furniture and interactive screens, according to reviews.

The two-hour visit gives ample time to wander the rooms, admire the exquisite details, and take in the surrounding rural landscapes. One guest described it as “fascinating,” emphasizing how the palace offers a real glimpse into Latvian aristocratic life. The on-site restaurant also receives praise for its good food and cozy ambiance, making this a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

Kryziu Kalnas: The Hill of Crosses

A highlight for many is the Hill of Crosses, located across the border in Lithuania. This site is a powerful testament to faith and resilience. Visitors can walk among thousands of crosses, some old and weathered, others new, placed there by pilgrims and visitors over centuries.

Reviewers describe the hill as “amazing” and “original,” noting that it’s more than just a religious site — it’s a symbol of faith, love, and sacrifice. It’s a place where visitors can reflect and even purchase a cross from a local stall to leave on the hill, continuing a long-standing tradition. The 40-minute stop here provides enough time for a meaningful visit without feeling rushed.

Transportation & Group Size

One of the best aspects of this tour is the small-group setting — usually just a handful of travelers (max 8). This creates a more relaxed, personalized atmosphere. The air-conditioned van ensures a comfortable ride, especially important given the roughly 8-hour duration.

Several reviews mention that guides were personable, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories. For example, “Thomas was great, very personable and kept a great pace,” reflects the quality of guide service. Guests also appreciate that the transport is reliable and that the pickups and drop-offs are hassle-free, with seamless hotel collection.

Admission & Food

All entrance fees are included, removing the stress of extra costs. Tour stops include Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle’s tower, with tickets smoothly handled by the guide.

Lunch isn’t included but is available at the Palace restaurant starting around €6, with table reservations possible for those wanting a sit-down meal. One reviewer enjoyed the local cuisine, especially potato pancakes, which are highly recommended.

Guide & Overall Experience

Multiple guests mention their guides by name — Gints, Paul, Kristine, Thomas — all receiving praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling. From sharing personal experiences to explaining Latvian customs, guides make the experience more intimate and informative.

The reviews reveal that the tour often feels like a private experience, especially if you end up the only travelers on the vehicle. This level of personalization adds significant value, making each trip feel tailored and special.

Price & Value

At $127.72 per person, this tour offers solid value. Entrance fees, transport, and expert guiding make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive Baltic day trip. While the drive can be long, the small group format and included activities help justify the cost. Reviewers consistently mention the good balance of sightseeing and free exploration time, making it easy to tailor the experience to your interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want to see a mix of architectural grandeur, historic fortresses, and spiritual sites in one day. It’s perfect for those with limited time in Riga but eager to experience the broader Baltic region. The small-group setup, knowledgeable guides, and included entrance fees make it ideal for travelers seeking a seamless, educational, and comfortable journey.

If you appreciate authentic, less touristy experiences and enjoy learning about local culture through guided commentary, you’ll find this tour enriching. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, some driving, and the occasional long ride — but most guests agree that it’s well worth it.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Riga hotel, making the day stress-free from start to finish.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll see Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses, with a short stop at Kryziu Kalnas in Lithuania.

Is it suitable for small groups?
Absolutely. The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all included in the price. This covers Rundale Palace and the Bauska Castle tower.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included but can be purchased at the Palace restaurant, starting from €6. You can also reserve a table in advance.

What language is the guide speaking?
The driver/guide speaks in several languages and provides live commentary, ensuring clear and engaging explanations.

Is there a recommended age range?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for a wide age range. However, be prepared for some walking and a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Latvian and Lithuanian highlights, combining history, architecture, and spiritual symbols in one convenient package. The small-group format, insightful guides, and included entrance fees make it a smart choice for those wanting a hassle-free, authentic experience outside Riga.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, appreciate beautiful scenery, and want to maximize their time exploring the Baltic region without the stress of driving. Whether you’re captivated by Rundale Palace’s grandeur or moved by the silent crosses of Kryziu Kalnas, this tour promises a memorable and enriching day.

If you’re ready to explore beyond the city, this trip is a fantastic way to see the region’s diverse facets, all while enjoying the comfort and ease of guided travel.