From Riga: Trip to Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace & Bauska

The From Riga: Trip to Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace & Bauska offers a full-day adventure through some of the Baltic region’s most captivating sites. Priced affordably and rated 4.9 out of 5 by 30 reviews, this tour is tailored for travelers seeking a well-organized day trip featuring Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights. It runs for approximately 8 hours, with starting times available based on your schedule.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate historic architecture, medieval castles, and places of spiritual significance. The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a comfortable experience and personalized attention from the guide. Importantly, entrance fees to Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden, as well as Bauska Castle’s tower, are included in the price.

While the tour provides a rundown of Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural landmarks, it does not include lunch, drinks, or accessibility for wheelchair users. Still, it offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and relaxing transportation—perfect for travelers who want an efficient yet engaging day out.

Key Points

• Visits three highlights: Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle, and the Hill of Crosses
• Small-group experience limited to 8 people, led by an English-speaking guide
• Includes entrance fees for key sites, ensuring no hidden costs
• Duration of approx. 8 hours, with flexible start times
• Comfortable transportation with printout sheets detailing each site
• Not suitable for wheelchair users and does not include meals or drinks

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation Comfort

The tour departs from Riga’s Rtslaukums, where you’ll find the designated “Opel Vivaro” or “Mercedes-Benz Sprinter” vans waiting. The ride through Latvia and Lithuania is described as comfortable, with a professional driver at the wheel. The group is small, which means more time for questions and engaging commentary from the guide.

The vehicle’s interior is kept smoke-free, and the journey is paced to maximize sightseeing time without feeling rushed. The included printout sheets provide helpful information about each site, adding educational value to the experience.

Exploring Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles

The first stop is Rundale Palace, often called “Latvia’s Little Versailles”. This Baroque palace was built in the 18th century for the Duke of Courland and boasts lavish interiors like the Golden Hall and White Hall, once used for royal gatherings.

Visitors enjoy 2 hours at the palace, during which they can explore the interior rooms and stroll through the beautiful French gardens and Rose Garden. The gardens feature hundreds of blooming roses, adding a splash of color and fragrance. The admission covers the main Big Circle and Rose Garden, providing a thorough look at this elegant estate.

The guide explains the history behind the architecture and the significance of the palace’s design. There is no mention of long queues or crowds, allowing for a relaxed visit. The heating system at Rundale Palace receives praise, and nearby dining options include local specialties such as potato pancakes.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Fortress and Scenic Views

Following Rundale Palace, the tour makes a 1-hour stop at Bauska Castle, situated at the confluence of the Msa and Mmele rivers. The site features ruins of a 15th-century fortress and a Renaissance residence, both offering insight into medieval military architecture and noble living.

Visitors have the chance to climb the castle tower, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The guided visit lasts about 25 minutes, where the guide shares stories of the castle’s strategic role in regional defense and explores the Renaissance wing.

Although only a brief stop, the castle’s historic significance and scenic lookout make it a worthwhile addition. The site’s atmosphere combines both history and nature, often appreciated by those interested in medieval architecture.

The Hill of Crosses: A Place of Deep Faith

The final stop is the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, where an hour-long visit allows for reflection and exploration. This sacred site is covered with thousands of crosses—of all sizes and styles—placed by pilgrims over many years.

The powerful atmosphere at the Hill resonates with themes of faith, hope, and resilience, especially considering its history as a symbol of resistance against oppression. Visitors are encouraged to walk freely among the crosses, taking in the spiritual ambiance.

The guided tour here emphasizes the history of the site and its significance for the local community. The site is an emotional experience, with many crosses representing personal stories and collective memory.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pacing and Timing of the Day

The itinerary is designed for efficient sightseeing, with the stops arranged to minimize long travel times while maximizing exposure to each location. The total duration of 8 hours includes travel, sightseeing, and free time at each site.

The breaks between stops are brief, maintaining a steady pace that allows visitors to experience each site fully without feeling overly rushed. The small group size enhances the feeling of personal attention and flexibility during the tour.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes printout sheets with detailed information about each site, making it easier to follow along and learn during the visit. Entrance fees for Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden and Bauska Castle’s tower are included, removing the need to purchase tickets separately.

Availability and starting times vary, so it’s advisable to check in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, giving flexibility in case plans change.

The meeting point is clearly specified at Riga’s Rtslaukums, and the activity ends back at the same location. Meals and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring water and plan for lunch either before or after the tour.

Guide Quality and Guest Experience

The guide’s knowledge consistently receives praise, with mentions of friendly, well-informed storytelling. Although no specific guide names are given, reviews highlight excellent communication and a comfortable riding experience, even for those worried about travel sickness.

The tour is suitable for non-English speakers, as participation is possible despite language barriers, thanks to clear organization and the professional driver.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in spiritual sites. The small-group format and inclusion of key sites without long queues make it comfortable and manageable for most travelers.

However, accessibility limitations mean it may not suit wheelchair users, and lunch or drinks are not included, so planning meals around the tour is recommended.

From Riga to Latvia and Lithuania’s Heritage: Final Thoughts

This 8-hour guided trip from Riga offers a balanced look at Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural and historical landmarks. The well-organized itinerary, inclusive entrance fees, and small-group atmosphere contribute to a smooth and engaging experience.

Visitors who value expert guides, stunning architecture, and historic sites will find this tour rewarding. The Hill of Crosses provides a powerful emotional ending, leaving lasting impressions. The only potential limitation is the lack of meal options and accessibility considerations, so come prepared accordingly.

This tour delivers a valuable snapshot of the Baltic region’s beauty and history, with high praise from previous participants and a strong reputation for quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour includes entrance fees to Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden and Bauska Castle’s tower, as well as comfortable transportation, a professional driver, and printout sheets with information about each site.

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with the start time depending on availability. It includes travel, sightseeing, and free time at each location.

Is lunch provided during the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. Travelers should plan to bring water and consider dining options either before or after the trip.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English?
Participation is possible, as the tour is led by an English-speaking guide. Reviews mention that even non-English speakers could enjoy the experience thanks to the organization and driver assistance.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, and some walking and climbing are involved at sites like Bauska Castle and the Hill of Crosses.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process allows for reserve and pay later, providing flexibility.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Riga’s Rtslaukums, with the vehicle waiting at the Town Hall square next to the Occupation Museum.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby