Private Castle tour from Riga:Rundale, Bauska+Hill of Cross

Experience the Latvian Countryside on a Private Rundale, Bauska, and Hill of Crosses Tour

This private tour from Riga offers an inspiring journey through Latvia’s most notable sites in a flexible 4 to 6 hours. Starting with luxurious door-to-door pickup, the tour takes you to the majestic Rundale Palace, where 18th-century Baroque and Rococo art dazzle at every turn. From there, you explore the historic Bauska Castle ruins and end at the uniquely spiritual Hill of Crosses.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of impressive architecture, beautifully maintained gardens, and the powerful symbolism of the Hill of Crosses. The tour is perfect for those looking for a compact yet detailed exploration of Latvia’s cultural gems, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included. It is suitable for travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and meaningful sights all in one outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable door-to-door service with hotel pickup and drop-off in Riga
• Visit Rundale Palace, an 18th-century masterpiece filled with Baroque and Rococo art
• Explore Bauska Castle ruins, Latvia’s only castle illustrating Renaissance and Mannerism styles
• Stop at the Hill of Crosses, a symbolic site covered in over 100,000 crosses
• Includes entry tickets to both Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle
• Duration of 4 to 6 hours, with flexible starting times

From Riga to the Opulent Rundale Palace

The tour starts with a comfortable transfer from your Riga hotel, heading toward the Rundale Palace, which arrives as a stunning surprise in the Latvian countryside. The palace covers an estate of 85 hectares, featuring the main building, French baroque gardens, former hunting park, orchards, ponds, and canals.

Within the palace, you’ll find a wealth of Baroque and Rococo artistry. The interior and the grounds are meticulously preserved, offering an opulent glimpse into 18th-century aristocratic life. For those interested in history and architecture, the palace’s complex grounds include the orangery, greenhouses, former servants’ house, and even traces of a 16th-century Grotthuss castle foundation.

Exploring Rundale Palace Gardens and Optional Lunch

The gardens are a highlight with their allées, pergolas, bosquets, and a Rose garden that spans nearly a hectare. The Rose garden particularly reflects the evolution of rose cultivation in Europe from the early 18th century to today.

While a lunch is not included, there is the option to enjoy a meal at the “Ozollde” café located within the palace’s historic kitchen. This allows visitors to savor local flavors amid the palace’s historic setting, though arrangements are made separately.

Discovering the Bauska Castle Ruins

Next, the journey continues to Bauska Castle, which is about an hour from Rundale. This castle is Latvia’s only one showcasing Renaissance and Mannerism architecture. The ruins reveal a fortress that played a key role in Latvia’s medieval history, giving visitors a sense of the past defensive strategies and noble life.

A self-guided tour of approximately one hour offers plenty of opportunity to explore the castle grounds, photograph the scenic views, and imagine the vibrant history that once unfolded here. The site’s historical significance provides a meaningful stop in the itinerary.

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Visiting the Hill of Crosses: A Symbol of Faith and Resilience

The final stop is the Hill of Crosses, an evocative site covered in over 100,000 crosses. This hill has grown over centuries, symbolizing faith, remembrance, and resilience. Its history is largely mythical, with stories of pilgrims placing crosses for personal reasons, and it has survived many attempts at destruction, including during Soviet times.

Spending about 45 minutes here allows for a peaceful walk among the crosses, reflection, and appreciation for Latvia’s spiritual diversity. Visitors often find this site spiritually stirring and visually striking.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour offers full door-to-door service, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Pickup begins from three designated locations in Riga—Lidosta “Rga”, Vecriga, or any hotel in Riga. The comfortable transfer vehicle ensures a smooth ride between stops.

Each stop is carefully timed: about 90 minutes at Rundale, one hour at Bauska, and 45 minutes at the Hill of Crosses, with breaks in between for rest or photos. The entire experience is designed to be flexible, with availability checkable for different starting times.

A key advantage is the entry tickets included for both Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, making the visit seamless and hassle-free. The guide provides clear explanations in English, enriching the visit with historical context.

Flexibility and Additional Options

While lunch is not included, guests can choose to dine at the palace’s café or nearby restaurants, allowing for personal preferences and schedules. The tour also offers a private group option, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

The duration varies from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and optional activities. Since the tour is fully refundable with 24-hour cancellation notice, travelers can plan with confidence.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in Latvia’s cultural sites. The combination of royal palaces, medieval ruins, and spiritual landmarks offers a well-rounded day exploring Latvia’s heritage. The door-to-door service and private group option add extra convenience for travelers seeking a stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts on the Rundale, Bauska, and Hill of Crosses Tour

This private Latvian adventure provides a balanced mix of opulent architecture, historic ruins, and evocative symbolism. The quality of the sites and seamless logistics make it an appealing choice for visitors who want to explore key Latvian landmarks without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets.

The length of 4-6 hours makes this tour manageable for most travelers, and the option to customize or extend parts of the day adds flexibility. The excellent reviews reflect satisfaction with the overall experience, highlighting the stunning views and meaningful stops.

While the tour does not include meals, the optional lunch at Rundale Palace offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine in a historic setting. The ample time at each stop and expert guides ensure that the experience is engaging, informative, and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, comfortable transfer, bottled water, and entry tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace with gardens.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the starting time and pace of the stops.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is an option to dine at the “Ozollde” café inside Rundale Palace, which can be arranged separately.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID card for entry and personal comfort items such as comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I customize the start time?
Availability varies, but check options to see different starting times for flexibility.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of luxurious palaces, scenic gardens, historic ruins, and the spiritual Hill of Crosses makes this a comprehensive Latvian sightseeing experience.

Is this tour good for families or small groups?
Yes, the private group option allows for a personalized experience suitable for families or small parties.

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