Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundle Palace, & Bauska Castle Tour

Key Points

• Visit two countries in one day: Latvia and Lithuania are both explored during this 8-hour tour from Riga.
• Includes key sights: Experience the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle with guided commentary and free time.
• Convenient transportation: Travel is by air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring comfort and connectivity.
• Entry tickets included: Enjoy pre-paid access to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, avoiding queues.
• Well-rated experience: With a 4.9/5 rating from 86 reviews, the tour is praised for knowledgeable guides and smooth pacing.
• Ideal for history and architecture fans: The tour features Baroque architecture, panoramic castle views, and a historic pilgrimage site.

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Discover the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of faith and hope. This site is famous for its thousands of crosses, which intertwine to create a landscape that many describe as moving and unique. Your guide shares insights into the history and significance of this special place, illustrating its role as a site of devotion and resilience.

Crossing from Latvia into Lithuania, the journey includes a photo stop at the border, capturing the moment of crossing into a different country. At the Hill of Crosses, visitors are given ample free time to explore, walk among the crosses, or take photos, all under the guidance of an expert who explains the site’s origins and meaning. The atmosphere here is serene and contemplative, reminiscent of sacred sites like the Western Wall.

Exploring Rundale Palace and Its Gardens

Next, the tour heads to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s prime example of Baroque architecture. The palace’s stunning interior rooms and sprawling gardens are open for a self-guided tour after an informative guided introduction. This allows ample opportunity to admire the intricate design, luxurious furnishings, and beautifully maintained French-style gardens.

The entry ticket to Rundale Palace is included, which means no queues or hassle—just direct access to explore at your own pace. The palace’s grandeur and the elegance of its architecture make it a highlight. Reviewers note that guides at Rundale add a theatrical touch, with some guides dressing in period costume, further enriching the experience.

Climbing Bauska Castle’s Tower for Views

Following a short drive, the group visits Bauska Castle, an impressive medieval fortress. Here, travelers have the chance to climb the recently renovated tower for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The tower’s vantage point offers a clear overlook of the area, adding a scenic element to the day.

The visit to Bauska Castle includes sightseeing and walking around the castle grounds. The entry ticket is also included, allowing visitors to explore without concern about queues. The castle’s history, combined with its scenic location, makes this stop a memorable part of the trip.

Comfortable Transport and Pacing

The entire day is managed with a focus on comfort and timing. Transportation between sites is by air-conditioned van or car, with WiFi onboard for convenience. The tour’s scheduling ensures each stop gets enough time, with reviews praising the well-balanced pace that prevents feeling rushed.

The stops are spaced out thoughtfully, with short driving periods—including a 2-hour drive from Riga at the start, and brief intervals between sites—making the day manageable and enjoyable, even for those who prefer not to spend long hours in transit.

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Lunch Options and Local Cuisine

While lunch is not included in the price, the tour provides excellent recommendations for local dining spots. Travelers can enjoy authentic Latvian cuisine at the suggested restaurants, which are conveniently located near the main attractions. This makes the day both tasty and immersive, with options to try traditional dishes or regional specialties.

Expert Guides and Engaging Commentary

The guides on this tour are a standout feature. Known for their knowledge, storytelling skills, and personable approach, guides like Erlens and Orlando are praised for making complex histories accessible and engaging. Their commentary adds depth to each stop, with some guides dressing in costume to enhance the experience at Rundale Palace.

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ ability to answer questions, provide local tips, and create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Their passion often turns a sightseeing day into a memorable journey filled with stories, humor, and interesting facts.

Flexibility and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Riga Cathedral, with guests meeting the driver/guide in front of the main entrance. It concludes back at the same starting point, making logistics straightforward. The 8-hour duration offers enough time for sightseeing, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility.

Participants should bring passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes, as walking is involved at each site. The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old and prohibits alcohol and drugs, ensuring safety and comfort for all.

Overall Value and Suitability

With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5, this tour provides excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive day trip. All entry tickets are included, and the guided commentary enriches the experience. The combination of historic sites, architectural wonders, and scenic views makes it suitable for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those looking to see a bit of Latvia and Lithuania in one day.

The comfortable transport, well-paced schedule, and expert guides ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The tour is especially recommended for visitors who appreciate organized, informative excursions with a personal touch.

Final Thoughts on the Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundle Palace, & Bauska Castle Tour

This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of spiritual, architectural, and historical sights, making it a strong choice for anyone eager to explore beyond Riga’s city limits. The Hill of Crosses provides a reflective experience, while Rundale Palace dazzles with its opulence. The Bauska Castle tower adds a scenic, medieval element to the journey.

The expert guides, comfortable transportation, and included tickets make this trip reliable and straightforward. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in Latvian and Lithuanian culture, history, and architecture. Despite the lack of lunch included, the recommendations for local eateries add to the overall value.

This tour delivers a memorable day filled with stunning sights and engaging stories. It’s a great way to see some of the most notable sites in Latvia and Lithuania in a single, well-organized trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting from Riga and returning to the same point.

What is included in the price?
The entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, driver-guide, and WiFi onboard are included.

Where does the tour start?
Participants meet the guide in front of the main entrance of Riga Cathedral.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included, but recommendations for local restaurants near the attractions are provided.

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

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the sites.

Is this tour suitable for elderly people?
It is not recommended for people over 95 years old due to walking involved at each stop.

How many stops are there?
There are three main stops: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle, with brief drives between each.

What makes this tour unique?
Travelers get two countries in one day, enjoy priority entry to major sites, and benefit from knowledgeable guides who bring history to life.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, the 4.9/5 rating and positive reviews reflect its popularity, quality, and value for money.

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