Group Day trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Discover Latvia and Lithuania in One Day with This Full-Size Tour

This group day trip from Riga offers an efficient way to see some of the most striking sights in Latvia and nearby Lithuania. Priced at $127.72 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes visits to Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle, and the Hill of Crosses. It’s a popular choice, often booked 25 days in advance, and rated perfect 5.0 out of 5 by 81 reviews. With a recommended rate of 96%, this tour appeals to those eager to explore beyond Riga without the hassle of driving or planning logistics.

The tour operates in a small group of up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Travelers value the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and the insightful commentary provided by guides who speak several languages. While the longer drives mean you’ll spend some time on the road, the pace remains flexible, with free time at each stop for personal exploration and photos.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone interested in Latvia and Lithuanian landmarks within a single day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate hassle-free transportation, small group intimacy, and the chance to see both architectural marvels and spiritual sites. A notable consideration is the additional fee of €4 for the Bauska Castle museum and a possible lunch cost starting at €6.

Key Points

• Visit three major sites in Latvia and Lithuania: Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle, and the Hill of Crosses
• Includes entrance fees for Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle Tower
• Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned van with a multilingual guide
• Flexible free time at each stop for photos and exploration
• Tour duration of around 8 hours with pickup and drop-off from Riga hotels
• Most bookings happen 25 days in advance, reflecting high demand

From the Old Town to Bauska Castle: The First Stop

The journey begins with a 30-minute drive to Bauska Castle, located in the town of the same name. The medieval fortress is situated between the rivers Misa and Mēmele, offering fantastic views from outside free of charge. Visitors can also explore the castle museum at an additional cost of 4 EUR to learn about its history and architecture. The admission is included in the tour price, making it a seamless stop with an opportunity for a quick photo session or a brief walk.

Bauska Castle’s picturesque setting and medieval charm make it an inviting introduction to Latvian history. Given the short 30-minute stop, this site offers a snapshot of Latvia’s past without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for visitors interested in medieval architecture and scenic views.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles

A 90-minute drive from Riga leads to Rundale Palace, often called the “Little Versailles”. This Baroque masterpiece is set in a rural landscape and features an exquisite French-style garden and architecture. The palace’s interior is filled with authentic furniture and historical exhibits, including interactive screens and an iPhone app that enhances the visit.

The admission fee for Rundale Palace is included, and visitors typically spend around 2 hours exploring the luxurious rooms, gardens, and pavilions. The palace’s architectural details and opulent interiors stand out as a highlight, and many reviews praise the peaceful ambiance during off-peak visits. This stop offers a chance to appreciate Latvian craftsmanship and historical grandeur.

The Hill of Crosses: A Testament of Faith

The 40-minute drive from Rundale Palace takes travelers to Kryziu Kalnas (Hill of Crosses) in Lithuania. This spiritual site features thousands of crosses placed over centuries by visitors from Lithuania and beyond. It symbolizes faith, love, and sacrifice rather than grief, and has been blessed by the Pope. The unique and powerful atmosphere makes it a memorable part of the tour.

Visitors can walk around the hill, examine the variety of crosses, and even purchase a small cross at a local stall. The admission is included in the tour. The site’s long history and symbolic significance make it especially meaningful for those interested in religious traditions or cultural expressions.

Enjoying the Natural Beauty and Scenic Countryside

Throughout the day, the comfortable van offers a chance to appreciate Latvia’s picturesque countryside. The views of rural landscapes, fields, and small towns create a relaxing backdrop for the drive. With the small group size, travelers benefit from personalized commentary and the opportunity to ask questions about the region’s culture and history.

The guide’s commentary is a highlight for many, providing insights into Latvian and Lithuanian culture, history, and traditions. The timing allows for photos and personal exploration at each site, avoiding feeling rushed.

Easy Logistics with Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

The tour starts at Latvieu Strainieku laukums 3 in Riga at 9:00 am. The included hotel pickup and drop-off makes planning straightforward and minimizes hassle. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the transportation vehicle is described as clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned.

For travelers with mobility considerations, the tour can accommodate most needs, and service animals are allowed. The timing and group size offer a balance between structure and flexibility, with enough free time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the admission to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle Tower are included, lunch options start at 6 EUR and can be reserved in advance, with the possibility of an à la carte menu. Some reviews mention an additional fuel surcharge of €70, payable in cash, which is not included in the base price. It’s advisable to review inclusions and exclusions before booking to avoid surprises.

The tour is canceled free of charge with 24 hours’ notice, making it flexible for changing plans or weather concerns. The tour operates in good weather, so check the forecast if planning to visit during uncertain conditions.

Guides and Customer Experience

Multiple reviews highlight excellent guides, especially Paul and Gints, who are praised for their knowledge, personable manner, and sharing personal stories. Reviewers appreciate the pace of the tour and the flexibility to explore at each stop. Many describe the experience as personal or private, especially when the group size is very small.

The guides’ ability to explain the significance of each site, combined with friendly service, creates a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Travelers often mention feeling well taken care of and gaining insights into Latvian and Lithuanian culture from their guides.

Overall Value and Suitability

This full-day tour delivers great value for the price, combining cultural, historical, and spiritual sites in one manageable package. The included entrance fees and hotel pickup streamline the experience, while the flexible schedule means you can savor each stop.

The tour is especially suitable for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or those interested in religious sites. The small group size and expert guides make for a personalized experience that many reviews describe as delightful.

Final Thoughts on the Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle Tour

This 8-hour day trip from Riga offers an efficient and enjoyable way to see Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights. While the long drives may be a consideration, the stunning palaces and spiritually charged site make it worthwhile. The expert guides, comfortable transport, and well-curated stops ensure a memorable experience for most travelers.

Highly recommended for those who want a comprehensive day trip that combines historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural symbols without the need to plan or drive themselves. It works best for independent travelers eager for a structured yet flexible journey through two countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation, entrance fees for Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle Tower, and the guide’s commentary.

How long are the stops at each site?
Expect around 30 minutes at Bauska Castle, 2 hours at Rundale Palace, and 40 minutes at the Hill of Crosses.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch costs start at 6 EUR and can be reserved on the day or in advance.

What about the fuel surcharge?
Some reviews mention a €70 fuel surcharge payable in cash, which is not included in the tour price. Check with the provider beforehand.

How accessible is the tour?
Most travelers can participate. The small group and comfortable vehicle are suitable for those with mobility considerations.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What’s the best time to book?
Most bookings are made around 25 days before to secure a spot, especially in peak seasons.

Who leads the tour?
Guides like Paul and Gints are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Is this a private or group experience?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, often feeling quite intimate, especially if booked privately or with a small group.

What are the main highlights?
Rundale Palace’s architecture, Bauska Castle’s views, and the Hill of Crosses’ spiritual atmosphere make this tour stand out.