2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska castle

Explore Two Countries in One Day: Latvia and Lithuania

This full-day tour offers an engaging journey through Latvia and Lithuania for just $151.17 per person, with a duration of approximately 8 hours. Departing from Riga, Latvia, the tour includes visits to Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the famous Hill of Crosses. A notable feature is the free stop for photos at the Latvia-Lithuania border, adding a touch of international adventure. The trip is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural landmarks, and it works well for travelers who enjoy flexible exploration at their own pace.

Participants benefit from an air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees included, and admission tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace. The tour’s average booking window of 29 days in advance and high 97% recommendation rate highlight its popularity and reliability. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, intimate experience. While lunch is not included, the two-hour free time at Rundale Palace allows for a meal or a leisurely exploration.

Key Points

• Visit two countries, Latvia and Lithuania, in a single day with a well-paced itinerary.
• Includes entrance tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, avoiding extra costs.
• Stops at the picturesque Hill of Crosses and the Latvian-Lithuanian border for memorable photos.
• Flexible browsing time at each site, with options to explore independently.
• Tour led by knowledgeable guides, praised for friendliness and storytelling.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with parking fees covered.

From the Old Town to Bauska Castle’s Historic Walls

The tour begins in Riga’s Old Town at 8:00 am, where participants are picked up from a central meeting point. The first stop is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress that some describe as resembling a “Game of Thrones” set. Visitors are encouraged to climb the recently renovated viewing tower, explore the castle ruins, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. This 30-minute stop offers a glimpse into Latvia’s medieval past, with admission included.

The castle ruins are particularly photogenic, with the tower view providing a panoramic look over the region. This site serves as a fitting beginning, setting the tone for a day filled with history and stunning architecture.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles

Next, the tour visits Rundale Palace, often called “Latvia’s little Versailles”. Over two hours, visitors can explore the palace and its meticulously maintained gardens. The palace’s baroque architecture and beautiful grounds are free of crowds, allowing for relaxed sightseeing and photography.

Guests are free to tour the interior, stroll through the French-style gardens, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. An on-site restaurant provides lunch options, although it is recommended to bring snacks if preferred. This stop offers a chance to learn about Latvia’s royal history and appreciate the magnificent architecture at your own pace.

Crossing the Latvia-Lithuania Border

A brief 5-minute stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border provides an opportunity for photos with the border signs. This quick visit adds an interesting element to the trip, marking the transition between the two nations without taking up much time. It’s a picture-worthy moment that emphasizes the cross-border nature of this tour.

The Hill of Crosses: A Moving Pilgrimage Site

The Hill of Crosses is the highlight for many visitors, offering a powerful and unique experience. With about one hour allocated for exploration, travelers can walk among thousands of crosses of varying sizes, shapes, and materials. The site is famous as a pilgrimage destination where people have left crosses over generations.

Visitors are welcome to leave their own cross if they wish, contributing to this ongoing tradition. The scenery and atmosphere create a sense of reverence and reflection, making it a memorable and emotional stop. The admission is included, and the site’s stories and symbolism resonate deeply with those interested in cultural and spiritual history.

Flexible Exploration at Rundale Palace Gardens and Castle

During the two-hour free time at Rundale Palace, visitors can explore the interior or spend time wandering the gardens. The French garden provides a peaceful setting for walking and taking photographs. Although the admission includes the palace and gardens, some reviews mention that more time at the palace interior or a group meal in the palace restaurant could enhance the experience—though the current setup offers ample flexibility.

Travelers can choose to bring their own lunch, as the on-site cafe has limited options, or simply enjoy the surroundings freely. This flexibility allows each visitor to customize their visit according to their pace and interests.

Bauska Castle: Restoring Latvia’s Medieval Heritage

The final stop is Bauska Castle, where visitors can explore the fortress ruins and climb the tower for more impressive views. The admission ticket covers the castle’s ruins and the tower, making it an accessible yet rewarding conclusion to the day.

The castle’s medieval atmosphere offers insights into Latvia’s past, with the ruins and views providing excellent photo opportunities. This site is appreciated as a laid-back yet enriching way to finish the trip, with a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Logistics and Group Experience

This tour departs from Reformcijas Laukums in Riga’s Old Town at 8:00 am, and the return is back at the same meeting point. It operates as a shared ride with a maximum of 18 travelers, fostering an intimate atmosphere. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and parking fees are included.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options. The timing is well-balanced, with a mix of guided visits and free exploration, ensuring visitors aren’t rushed. Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, praised for their friendliness and storytelling ability.

The Experience of the Guides and Tour Pacing

Highlights include Yannis or Janis as guides, both receiving high praise for their friendly demeanor and ability to keep the group engaged. Many reviews mention the guides’ storytelling skills and their knack for making the day enjoyable.

The pacing is generally well-received, with most travelers appreciating the relaxed schedule that allows time at each site. Some reviews note that more time at Rundale Palace interior or additional commentary from guides could improve the experience, but overall, the average rating of 4.9 out of 5 reflects high satisfaction.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. The combination of medieval ruins, baroque palaces, and spiritual sites offers a broad perspective on Latvian and Lithuanian heritage. It’s also well-suited for small groups who appreciate personalized attention and flexible exploration.

While the tour is accessible for most, those interested in more extensive inside visits or meals might prefer a private or customizable option. The tour’s balance of guided commentary and free time makes it a practical choice for travelers who want a rundown without feeling overwhelmed.

Latvia and Lithuania in One Day: Final Reflection

This full-day tour provides a rich taste of Latvian and Lithuanian history, architecture, and culture. With admission tickets included and a highly praised guide, it offers good value for the price. The scenic stops, the storytelling guides, and the flexibility at each site make it a worthwhile experience.

The stops at Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses stand out as the highlights, delivering both visual beauty and meaningful cultural moments. The comfortable transportation and convenient central meeting point add to the overall ease of this adventure. Travelers seeking a balanced, insightful day trip should find this tour highly satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour provides free time at Rundale Palace where visitors can dine at the onsite restaurant or bring their own snacks.

How long is the overall tour?
The total tour duration is approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Riga around the same time.

Are admission tickets to sites included?
Yes, admission to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are included in the tour price.

Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Yes, you are welcome to leave your own cross during the visit, continuing the site’s long-standing tradition.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The pace and sites make it suitable for people interested in history and culture, though some walking and stairs may be involved at the sites.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size is limited to 18 travelers, fostering a more personal experience compared to larger buses.