Vilnius: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle Trip

Discover Latvia’s Hidden Gems with a Full-Day Trip from Vilnius

Travelers craving a mix of spirituality, history, and stunning architecture will find this tour to Latvia’s highlights a rewarding choice. We’re reviewing a carefully curated day trip that hits three must-see sites — the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle — all within 8 hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private, door-to-door transport ensures comfort and convenience, avoiding the hassle of public transit or multiple bookings. Second, the balance of cultural and scenic stops offers a well-rounded taste of Latvia’s charm. And third, the professional driver often receives praise for punctuality and helpfulness, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

A potential consideration? The tour involves crossing a border, so a valid passport or ID is required — not a big deal, but something to keep in mind for border crossing procedures.

This trip suits travelers who prefer a flexible, guided experience without the stress of planning logistics or navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to see key sights comfortably and efficiently.

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Key Points

Comfortable Private Transport: Enjoy air-conditioned, door-to-door service from Vilnius to Latvia’s highlights.
Authentic Sites: Visit the spiritual Hill of Crosses, a site with over 100,000 crosses, and Latvia’s grand Rundale Palace.
Historical Stop: Optional visit to Bauska Castle adds a medieval flavor to your day.
Time Efficiency: The tour packs several notable stops into 8 hours, making it perfect for tight schedules.
Local Insights: Driven by a professional who’s praised for punctuality and helpfulness, enhancing your experience.
Cost-Effective: All transportation, parking, and taxes included — major value for a full-day excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Latvia Day Trip

Looking for more options in Vilnius? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Seamless Journey from Vilnius to Latvia

The trip begins with a convenient hotel pickup from your Vilnius accommodation. The private vehicle, usually a comfortable air-conditioned car or minivan, sets the tone for a relaxed day. The driver, often recognized for punctuality, serves as a knowledgeable guide in disguise, sharing tidbits about the sights and history along the way.

The drive to the first stop, the Hill of Crosses, takes roughly 2.5 hours. During this stretch, you’ll pass through scenic Lithuanian countryside before crossing the border into Latvia — remember to bring your passport or ID card. The border crossing is straightforward, and your driver handles the logistics, so you’re free to enjoy the views or chat with fellow travelers.

The Hill of Crosses: A Sacred Landmark

Upon arrival, you’re greeted by an extraordinary sight: the Hill of Crosses, a spiritual monument and folk art masterpiece with about 100,000 crosses. This site has deep roots, dating back to rebels of the 1831 uprising, who first started leaving crosses here as symbols of resistance and faith. Today, it’s a powerful symbol of perseverance and hope, visited by pilgrims and even Pope John Paul II.

What we loved about this stop is how it feels both authentic and contemplative. You can wander among the crosses, snap photos of the intricate carvings, or just absorb the solemn atmosphere. The site’s openness and the variety of crosses — from simple wooden ones to ornate metalwork — make for compelling photos and reflection.

Rundale Palace: A Baroque Masterpiece

After soaking in the spiritual aura of the Crosses, your driver takes you to Rundale Palace, roughly 40 minutes away. Built in the 18th century, this grand Baroque palace was designed by the renowned architect Rastrelli, famous for his work on St. Petersburg’s palaces. It served as a summer residence for the Dukes of Courland and boasts impressive architecture, lush gardens, and ornate interiors.

Visitors often comment on how well-preserved and regal the palace is. Inside, you’ll find gilded ceilings, intricate woodwork, and opulent furnishings that transport you to a different era. The palace’s rooms are open for exploration, and the gardens offer sweeping views — perfect for photos and a moment to breathe in the beauty of Latvian craftsmanship.

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Optional Stop at Bauska Castle

Next, if time allows, your driver can swing by Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress that offers a glimpse into Latvia’s defensive past. The castle’s ruins and the surrounding landscape provide a picturesque backdrop for photos and a touch of history. Reviewers note that this stop adds value, especially for history buffs, without significantly extending the itinerary.

There's plenty more to explore in Vilnius

Return Journey to Riga

After the castle, it’s about an hour’s drive to Riga, where your driver will drop you at your hotel or accommodation. The entire day feels well-paced, with enough time at each site to appreciate their significance without feeling rushed. The custom private transport means you can relax, ask questions, or even pause for quick scenic photos when the mood strikes.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Consider

This tour offers excellent value with hotel pickup, private transport, and all taxes and parking fees covered. While entrance tickets and lunch are not included, the flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous meals or sightseeing extras.

The driver’s professionalism is frequently praised — Alexandr, for example, was noted for being punctual and helpful. This attentiveness can make a significant difference, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or border crossing procedures.

Since the tour is private, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, which adds to the comfort and flexibility. It’s a great way to tailor the day to your interests, with the driver often able to accommodate your timing or make minor adjustments.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes since some sites involve walking or uneven terrain (like the Hill of Crosses).
Keep your passport or ID handy for border crossing.
The duration of 8 hours means you’ll want to start early or check availability to fit your schedule.
Remember, entrance tickets are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore interiors or specific parts of the sites.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is ideal for those who want a well-organized, full-day experience without the stress of planning logistics or navigating borders. History buffs, architecture lovers, or spiritual seekers will find plenty to admire and reflect on.

Travelers on a tight schedule but eager to see Latvia’s highlights will appreciate the time-efficient itinerary. If you seek a blend of scenic drives, cultural sites, and authentic Latvian landmarks, this tour hits all the marks.

On top of that, those who value private, door-to-door service will enjoy the comfort and personalized attention from the driver. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable walking around sites like the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Entrance tickets are not included, so you can choose to buy them on-site or in advance if available.

How long is the drive from Vilnius to Latvia?
The drive to the Hill of Crosses takes about 2.5 hours, followed by shorter drives between sites and about 1 hour from Rundale Palace to Riga.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver can accommodate slight adjustments or additional stops if time allows.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, bring your passport or ID for border crossing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be opportunities to purchase food during the day.

What is the size of the tour group?
This is a private experience, so it’s just your group and the driver.

Is there a specific age limit?
No, but be mindful of walking distances and site accessibility.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Vilnius to Latvia trip offers a balanced mix of spirituality, architecture, and history, all delivered with comfort and flexibility. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a smooth, guided experience that combines cultural insight with scenic beauty. Whether you’re keen to see the iconic Crosses, marvel at a Baroque palace, or explore medieval ruins, this tour makes it all manageable within a single day.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to discover Latvia’s key sites without driving yourself, this trip is a strong contender — combining value, comfort, and memorable sights in one compelling package.

You can check availability for your dates here: