Tour From Riga to Vilnius: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses

Set out on a captivating tour from Riga to Vilnius, uncovering the grandeur of Baroque and Rococo architecture at Rundale Palace, the medieval charm of Bauska Castle, and the spiritual significance of the Hill of Crosses. With insightful commentary from your driver-guide, this private tour promises an unforgettable journey through the rich history and cultural heritage of Latvia and Lithuania. But what lies beyond the stunning landmarks and captivating narratives?

Key Points

• This one-way tour from Riga to Vilnius includes visits to Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses with transportation and sightseeing provided.
• The tour offers insights into Baroque and Rococo architecture and medieval history, with a driver-guide providing commentary throughout the journey.
• Entrance tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are included, but food, drinks, and gratuities are not.
• The tour operates year-round, except for Bauska Castle during the off-season (November to April), when accessibility and opening hours may be reduced.
• The tour is priced competitively, with an option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour from Riga to Vilnius combines one-way transportation with a full-day sightseeing experience, showcasing several highlights along the way.

It includes visits to Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses. The tour features Baroque and Rococo architecture at Rundale Palace and the medieval Bauska Castle.

Throughout the journey, the driver-guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring an enriching experience. During the off-season from November to April, the tour doesn’t visit Bauska Castle.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup in Riga and drop-off in Vilnius.

Entrance tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace and Garden are provided. However, food and drinks aren’t included, and gratuities are optional.

This is a private tour, so only your group will participate. The tour departs from centrally located hotels, apartments, and hostels in Riga at 9:00 am.

In the off-season (November to April), Bauska Castle isn’t visited. A current valid passport is required for travel.

The tour price starts from $232.71 per person and varies by group size, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Pickup and Timing

Pickup from centrally located hotels, apartments, and hostels in Riga is at 9:00 am.

The tour operates year-round, except during the off-season from November to April, when Bauska Castle isn’t visited. This is due to reduced opening hours and accessibility during the colder months.

Travelers will need to provide a current valid passport to participate in the tour, as it involves crossing international borders between Latvia and Lithuania.

The tour concludes with drop-off in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, providing a convenient one-way transportation solution between the two cities.

Pricing and Booking Information

The tour from Riga to Vilnius starts at $232.71 per person, with the price varying based on the size of the group.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility. Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour is priced competitively, offering a full-day sightseeing experience with transportation included from Riga to Vilnius.

Booking the tour is straightforward, and interested parties can easily reserve their spot online or through the tour operator.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the 2 reviews, the tour from Riga to Vilnius has been rated 5.0 out of 5 stars.

Travelers appreciated the combination of transportation and sightseeing, with ample time at each site.

Positive feedback highlighted the guide’s exceptional knowledge of Latvian history and timely service.

The tour experience was described as excellent, with reviewers noting the Baroque- and Rococo-style architecture at Rundale Palace and the medieval Bauska Castle as major highlights.

Exploring Bauska Castle

As travelers embark on the tour from Riga to Vilnius, one of the highlights is the opportunity to explore the magnificent Bauska Castle.

This medieval fortress dates back to the 16th century and is known for its Baroque and Rococo architectural elements. Visitors can wander through the castle’s grand halls, admire the intricate details, and learn about its fascinating history.

The tour includes entry tickets, allowing guests to fully enjoy the castle’s grandeur. Whether marveling at the ornate decor or taking in the stunning views, Bauska Castle is a captivating stop on the journey.

Discovering Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses

After exploring the medieval splendor of Bauska Castle, the tour continues to the exquisite Rundale Palace.

Constructed in the 18th century, this Baroque and Rococo masterpiece showcases lavish interiors and expansive gardens. Visitors marvel at the ornate decor, gilded halls, and intricately designed rooms.

The tour then leads to the Hill of Crosses, a sacred site housing thousands of crosses from the 19th century. Pilgrims and travelers alike come to reflect and leave their own crosses, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

The insightful driver-guide provides commentary, enriching the experience of these historic Lithuanian landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Historical Sites?

Photography is generally allowed inside the historical sites, though restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with tour guides or site staff for specific photography policies before taking photos within the attractions.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

Dress comfortably in layers, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor sightseeing. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there’ll be some walking at the historical sites. Bring a light jacket or sweater in case of changing weather conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour operator states that food and drinks are not included, though travelers are welcome to bring their own. Gratuities for the driver-guide are optional. Visitors should plan accordingly for their personal needs during the day-long excursion.

How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?

The total duration of the tour is not explicitly stated, but the information indicates it’s a full-day sightseeing tour that combines transportation from Riga to Vilnius with visits to Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for travelers with disabilities. While the driver-guide can provide assistance, accessibility at the historic sites may be limited. Prospective participants should inquire about specific accommodation needs before booking.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour from Riga to Vilnius offers a chance to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at the architectural grandeur of Rundale Palace, explore the medieval charm of Bauska Castle, and pay respects at the Hill of Crosses. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and ample time at each site, this private tour provides an unforgettable journey through the Baltics.