Riga: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Trip

Exploring Latvia and Lithuania in a Day: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses Trip

Traveling across borders in a single day might sound ambitious, but this guided tour makes it comfortably manageable—and truly memorable. Designed for those who want to see some of the most striking sites in Latvia and Lithuania without the hassle of planning, this trip offers a well-balanced blend of history, architecture, and culture.

What we love about this experience? First, the mix of places—ranging from grand palaces to evocative pilgrimage sites—means you get a diversity of sights in just one day. Second, the expert guides and detailed printouts turn each stop into an engaging learning experience, making history come alive. Third, the small group size and flexible pace ensure you’re not rushed, allowing genuine enjoyment and spontaneous moments.

A potential consideration? The full day can be quite packed, so it’s not ideal if you prefer leisurely, unstructured exploration. Also, lunch isn’t included, giving you the option to bring snacks or dine at each site’s restaurant—though this might mean juggling time for your meal.

This tour suits travelers who love a compact, well-organized day of sightseeing, especially those eager to tick off major landmarks in Latvia and Lithuania. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about this fascinating region.

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Key Points

Diverse sites: Visit a medieval castle, a baroque palace, and a unique Crosses site—all in one day.
Expert guidance: Knowledgeable drivers and printouts enrich your understanding of each destination.
Comfortable transportation: Modern vans ensure smooth travel between locations.
Flexible for your pace: Free time at each stop allows for exploration, photos, or meals.
Border crossing included: Experience the thrill of visiting two countries in one trip.
Affordable value: Includes entrance tickets and audio guides, making for a cost-effective day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Experience

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Starting Point and First Stop: St. Peter’s Church in Riga

Your adventure begins in Riga’s Old Town, with a meeting point outside the iconic St. Peter’s Church. Here, you’ll meet your driver and receive printed guides about the day’s itinerary, setting the stage for what’s ahead. The group will hop into a comfortable van, ready for a day packed with history and stunning sights.

Bauska Medieval Castle

Your first destination is the Bauska Medieval Castle, a site that immediately transports you back to the Middle Ages. Notable here is the tower—recently renovated—that you’ll have a chance to climb, to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. The castle ruins offer a glimpse into Latvia’s medieval past, and the free time allocated allows you to explore at your own pace.

Reviewers mention the castle’s appeal: “We checked out the castle tower and ruins, which was a highlight,” says one traveler. The experience is enhanced by the opportunity to get up close with the history and enjoy the scenic views from the top of the tower.

Crossing the Latvia-Lithuania Border

A short drive takes you to the border crossing—a chance to stand in two countries at once. The moment is a fun marker of your journey and provides great photo opportunities. While border procedures are smooth, travelers should remember to carry their passports or EU IDs, as required.

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Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Next, your route brings you to the Hill of Crosses, a site that many reviewers describe as “extraordinary.” This pilgrimage site is covered with thousands of crosses, ranging from tiny tokens to large monuments, all left by visitors over decades or even centuries.

One reviewer notes, “The Hill of Crosses is a unique and emotional place. You can bring your own cross if you wish, and there are locals selling crosses on site.” You’ll have about an hour to walk around, reflect, and take photos. An included audio guide enhances your understanding of the site’s significance—particularly as a symbol of hope and resilience.

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Rundale Palace and Gardens

A scenic drive then leads you to Rundale Palace, often called the “Little Versailles” of Latvia. This 18th-century mansion boasts exquisite architecture and beautifully maintained gardens. A guided walk allows you to appreciate the grandeur of the rooms and the artistry of the gardens.

Based on reviews, “The palace has no queues, so you get the full experience,” and the free audio guides on your phone make exploring more enriching. You’ll have about two hours here—plenty of time for a self-guided tour, some photography, and a leisurely lunch at the palace restaurant if you wish.

Bauska Castle Tower and Ruins

Finally, you return to Bauska Castle for a brief visit to the castle ruins and tower. This spot offers a last glimpse into the medieval fortress that once controlled the region. Climbing the tower is a highlight, and the walk around the ruins allows you to soak in the history and scenic views.

Return to Riga

Your day concludes with a comfortable drive back to Riga, arriving at the starting point outside St. Peter’s Church. The entire experience, including transport, guide, and entrance fees, offers a well-rounded value for a full-day immersive experience.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

We found that the tour’s strength lies in its seamless organization—everything from transportation to entrance tickets is handled smoothly, removing chaos and stress. The use of printed guides and audio guides elevates your experience, making sure you’re informed without feeling overwhelmed.

The diversity of sites means you’ll see Latvia’s architectural splendor, such as the Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, alongside one of the most unique pilgrimage sites—the Hill of Crosses—in Lithuania. This offers a well-rounded view of the region’s culture and history.

Group size and flexibility are notable. With a small group, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, and the free time at each stop allows for personal exploration—whether that’s snapping photos, wandering around, or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Reviews confirm that guides like Viesturs are both knowledgeable and personable, making the day not just educational but also engaging. Travelers mention the group dynamics—friendly, diverse, and lively—adding to the overall enjoyment.

Transportation, Timing, and Cost Analysis

The tour’s 9-hour duration strikes a good balance—full enough to visit all three sites without feeling rushed. The transportation—modern vans—ensures a comfortable ride between locations, crucial when covering long distances.

Cost-wise, the ticket includes all major entrance fees and helpful guides, making it an affordable way to see a lot in one day. Since lunch isn’t included, bringing your own snacks or dining at the palace restaurant offers flexibility depending on your appetite and schedule.

Final Thoughts

This trip provides excellent value for travelers eager to see Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning. It’s especially suitable for those with a curiosity for history, architecture, and scenic landscapes. The ability to visit two countries in one day makes it an efficient choice for travelers with limited time or those wanting a taste of both nations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy guided journeys filled with fascinating stories, stunning views, and a variety of sites, this trip is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for those who want a structured day with knowledgeable guides, and for travelers who appreciate a good mix of history, culture, and scenery.

For those seeking a relaxed, unhurried experience or planning to spend significant time exploring each site independently, this might feel a bit rushed. But for a busy day packed with memorable sights, it’s a fantastic option.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my passport or ID?
Yes, carrying your passport or EU ID is mandatory, especially for border checks between Latvia and Lithuania.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You can bring snacks or enjoy a meal at the palace restaurant during your free time.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with organized stops and free time built into the schedule.

What’s the group size?
While the exact group size varies, reviews mention a small, friendly group that enhances the experience.

Are the sites accessible for all?
Most sites are accessible, but climbing the castle tower at Bauska and walking around the Hill of Crosses require some mobility. Check specific site details if needed.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability in advance, as the tour runs with a minimum of three participants. Flexible booking allows you to reserve while keeping your plans adaptable.

To sum it up, this guided day trip offers a well-organized, engaging way to experience Latvia and Lithuania’s most iconic sites. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a diverse itinerary, it delivers excellent value for those eager to explore the region’s history and scenery without the stress of DIY planning. Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or just someone wanting a memorable day out, this tour hits the mark.