Tour from Riga – Vilnius via Bauska, Rundale, The Hill of Crosses

Explore the Baltic Borders with a Guided Riga to Vilnius Tour

Traveling between Riga and Vilnius becomes an enriching experience with this 8-hour guided tour that combines comfortable transportation, insightful commentary, and three must-see stops along the way. Priced at $110.30 per person, this trip is designed to maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning, making it ideal for those who want an organized, engaging journey through Latvia and Lithuania.

The tour departs from Latvian Riflemen Monument in Riga at 9:00 am, and the group size is capped at 38 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personalized atmosphere. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history, architecture, and faith, with plenty of time allocated for exploration and photographs. While entrance tickets are not included, the tour’s value rests heavily on its stops and expert guidance.

This tour appeals to those who appreciate structured day trips, want to see key sights without the hassle of independent travel, and enjoy little journeys within their journeys. However, it’s worth noting that food and entrance tickets are not included, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Riga to Vilnius with room for luggage.
• Three major stops: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses.
• Guidebook or live guide offers insights into each site’s significance.
• Approximate 8-hour trip with plenty of time for sightseeing.
• Tour departs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
• Price of $110.30 per person offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.

Starting from Riga: Meeting at the Latvian Riflemen Monument

The tour begins at the Latvian Riflemen Monument in Riga’s Centra rajons. Travelers meet at this central location at 9:00 am, ready for a day that packs in history, architecture, and cultural symbols. The mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward, and the group is limited to 38 people to preserve a friendly, small-group feel.

From the start, the focus is on comfort and clarity. The transport is a mini coach with ample space for luggage, and the driver also acts as the guide, providing commentary during the entire journey. Travelers are encouraged to arrive on time to enjoy a smooth start and avoid missing any part of the trip.

Visiting Bauska Castle: An 15th-Century Fortress on Two Rivers

The first stop is Bauska Castle, set on a scenic land between the Musa and Memele rivers. This site combines two historical structures: the Livonian Order Castle, built in the 15th century, and a residence for the Duke of Courland, constructed at the end of the 16th century.

Today, the residence is fully restored and houses the Castle Museum, showcasing the region’s history. The ruins of the Livonian Order seat remain, adding a rugged charm. The admission ticket is not included, but the site’s combination of well-preserved architecture and scenic views makes it worth a visit. Expect to spend about 1 hour here, with ample opportunity to explore the grounds, take photos, and learn about Latvia’s medieval past.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Versailles and Architectural Masterpiece

The next stop is Rundale Palace, located just 15 kilometers from the Lithuanian border. Built in the 18th century by Ernst Johann von Biron, this summer residence showcases the talents of Italian architect Francesco Rastrelli, who also designed the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg.

The palace’s renovation has restored its grandeur, and it now functions as a museum and garden, drawing visitors intrigued by its regal design and lush grounds. The entrance is not included, but a 2-hour visit allows ample time to explore the palace interiors and stroll through the gardens. Known as the “Versailles of Latvia,” Rundale Palace offers a glimpse into aristocratic life in the 18th century, making it a highlight of the tour.

The Hill of Crosses: Lithuanian Faith and Resistance

The final stop in Lithuania is the Hill of Crosses, a 16-kilometer drive from Siauliai city. This site features a small hill covered with over 200,000 crosses, symbolizing faith, hope, and resistance. It functions as an open-air monument of Lithuanian religious folk art and cultural perseverance.

Admission is free, and visitors typically spend about one hour exploring the site. The Hill of Crosses is visually stunning, and its significance as a symbol of Lithuanian resilience makes it a deeply meaningful stop. Many travelers find it to be the most memorable part of the trip, especially given its mystical atmosphere.

Logistical Comfort and Group Size

The transportation is described as comfortable, with ample room for luggage. The driver also acts as a guide, providing informative commentary about each location. Reviews highlight the small group size of up to 38 travelers as an advantage, enabling more personalized attention and easier movement at each stop.

The departure at 9:00 am from Riga ensures a full day of sightseeing, with the end point in Vilnius typically close to Cathedral Square. The tour runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, making it accessible for travelers with flexible schedules.

Value of the Tour: Sightseeing and Convenience

For $110.30, travelers receive transportation, a guidebook or live guide, and plenty of sightseeing opportunities. The adventure combines cultural, historical, and religious sites in one day, making it an efficient way to experience both Latvia and Lithuania without the need for separate arrangements.

While food and entrance tickets are not included, the well-paced itinerary and insightful guidance compensate for this. Many reviews praise the driver’s knowledge and friendly attitude, with some noting the value for money as a key strength.

Challenges and Considerations

Some reviews mention timing issues, such as late arrivals at stops, which can slightly affect the experience. A few travelers highlight guide professionalism as an area for improvement, citing moments of aggressiveness or inappropriate behavior.

Plus, the lack of included entrance tickets means travelers should budget separately for costs at Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace. The Hill of Crosses remains free of charge, making it an accessible highlight.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits those interested in history, architecture, and religious symbolism. It is ideal for small groups seeking a convenient, guided day trip with plenty of time for exploration. The moderate pace and comfortable transport make it suitable for most physically able travelers, though it involves some walking at each site.

Travelers who enjoy structured itineraries and insightful guides will find this tour particularly valuable. It’s especially beneficial for visitors who want to see multiple attractions efficiently, without the stress of independent transportation.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Route from Riga to Vilnius

This guided tour offers a cost-effective and efficient way to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights in a single day. The stops at Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses provide a good mix of history, architecture, and cultural significance.

The small group size, comfortable transportation, and expert guidance make this experience a strong choice for those eager to maximize sightseeing while minimizing travel stress. However, travelers should be prepared for additional costs for entrance tickets and variable guide professionalism in some reviews.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a structured, informative trip with memorable sights along the way. It delivers value for money and an insightful glimpse into the Baltic region’s diverse heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides comfortable transportation with room for luggage.

What are the main stops on this trip?
Stops include Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses.

How long do I spend at each location?
You can expect around 1 hour at Bauska Castle, 2 hours at Rundale Palace, and 1 hour at the Hill of Crosses.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace.

What is the cost of this tour?
The price is $110.30 per person.

What are the tour departure days?
The tour runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a current valid passport is required for crossing from Latvia into Lithuania.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, though it involves some walking and standing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours in advance.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider, Discover Lithuania, with easy online availability.