2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska castle

If you’re after a well-organized day trip that combines history, culture, and a touch of spirituality, this tour from Riga might just be your ticket. It offers visits to Latvia and Lithuania, highlighting some of the most unique sights in the Baltic region — without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Featuring a comfortable vehicle, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible itinerary, it’s designed for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, story-telling, and free time.

What we love about this experience is the way it combines iconic landmarks with some genuine local charm, especially the Hill of Crosses, which is unlike anything else you’ll see in Europe. The chance to leave your own cross or simply marvel at the countless others makes it a meaningful stop. On the flip side, one possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed into 8 hours, so those craving leisurely exploration at each site may find it a bit brisk.

This tour suits history buffs, culture lovers, and curious travelers looking to get a feel for the broader Baltic region in just a day. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate guided insights but also want the flexibility to browse each attraction at their own pace.

Key Points

Comfortable, guided transportation ensures seamless travel between sites.
Includes entrance fees for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, making it good value.
The Hill of Crosses offers a powerful, almost spiritual experience.
Flexible timing at each site allows for personal exploration or photos.
Ideal for a quick Baltic overview — covering two countries in one day.
Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and well-paced visits.

An in-Depth Look at What to Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day starts at 8:00 am in Riga, with a shared ride that keeps the experience intimate and personable—usually with no more than 18 travelers. Your driver and guide, like Yannis or Janis in some reviews, are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the energy high while delivering insightful commentary.

Bauska Castle (30 minutes)

Your first stop is the medieval Bauska Castle, which some say resembles a set straight off a Game of Thrones episode. The castle, recently renovated, features a viewing tower that offers spectacular vistas over the surrounding landscape. Visitors love the photogenic ruins and the opportunity to explore the fortress walls at your own pace.

The admission fee is included, so you can freely ascend the tower and wander the grounds. Reviewers mention a relaxed atmosphere—some even note that this spot is a perfect way to kick off the day with a dash of medieval charm.

Rundale Palace and Gardens (2 hours)

Next is Rundale Palace, Latvia’s answer to Versailles, renowned for its baroque architecture and meticulously maintained gardens. This is often considered the tour’s highlight, with visitors appreciating the chance to explore without queues or crowds thanks to a pre-arranged ticket.

Inside, you’ll find stunning rooms, each decorated with period furniture and intricate details. The gardens outside are an ideal backdrop for photos, and many reviewers highlight the peacefulness of this visit. The tour offers free time to explore, and you can also opt to have lunch at the palace’s restaurant—though reviewers suggest bringing your own snacks if you want more flexibility or to maximize your sightseeing.

The Latvia-Lithuania Border (5 minutes)

A quick stop at the border sign allows for a memorable photo with the flags of both countries. It’s a brief moment but adds a fun element to the journey, emphasizing the cross-border nature of your adventure.

Kryziu Kalnas (Hill of Crosses) (1 hour)

The Hill of Crosses is arguably the most emotionally impactful site on this trip. Covered in thousands of crosses, from tiny tokens to massive monuments, it’s a testament to faith, hope, and resilience. Visitors describe it as breath-taking, with many choosing to add their own cross or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Some reviews mention that this stop is particularly meaningful — a symbol of perseverance for Lithuanians during tough times. The experience is both visually stunning and spiritually moving.

Return to Riga

The tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to the original meeting point in Riga, usually around 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day or continue exploring Latvia’s capital.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touches

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, like Yannis and Janis, for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge. One review mentions that Janis even brought snacks and water, making the long day more comfortable.

Flexibility and Free Time

Unlike some guided tours that stick rigidly to a schedule, this experience allows you to explore each site at your own pace. For example, at Rundale Palace, you can spend your free time wandering the gardens or grabbing a bite, which adds to the authenticity and enjoyment.

Well-Paced and Intimate

With a maximum of 18 travelers, you’re not stuck in a crowded bus. Several reviews highlight how this small-group atmosphere makes asking questions and engaging with the guide easier, creating a more personal experience.

Value for Money

At $151.17 per person, the cost includes entry fees, parking, and air-conditioned transport. Considering the sites visited and the convenience of everything being organized, this offers good value, especially since the tour avoids long lines and busy queues.

Authentic and Unique Experiences

The Hill of Crosses is a genuine highlight, as many travelers find it unlike other typical tourist spots. The sight of so many crosses in one place is both moving and surreal.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your own lunch or snacks, especially if you prefer more flexibility at Rundale Palace, as reviewers have noted the café has limited options.
• Wear comfortable shoes, especially since there’s some walking at the castle ruins and gardens.
• Photography enthusiasts will love the scenic views from Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, so bring your camera.
• If you’re interested in adding your own cross at Kryziu Kalnas, don’t forget to bring a small token or cross.
• The tour departs promptly at 8:00 am, so aim to arrive a little early at the meeting point.
• The small-group setting makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, as it offers a layered look at medieval and baroque architecture. It’s also a good fit for culture seekers, especially those intrigued by the symbolic significance of the Hill of Crosses. If you prefer guided experiences that balance information with free exploration, this tour hits the sweet spot.

It’s also suited for short-stay visitors who want to maximize their time and see two countries in one day without the stress of navigating public transport or multiple bookings.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation between all sites, making the day comfortable and stress-free.

Are entrance fees included?
They are included for Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace. The Hill of Crosses does not require an admission fee.

Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely, visitors are encouraged to leave their own cross if they wish, adding a personal touch to this meaningful site.

How long do we spend at each location?
Expect around 30 minutes at Bauska Castle, 2 hours at Rundale Palace, and 1 hour at Kryziu Kalnas, with a brief photo stop at the Latvian-Lithuania border.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the pace is generally suitable for all. However, bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces.

What’s the group size?
Up to 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

What should I bring for lunch?
While there are dining options at Rundale Palace, many travelers prefer to bring snacks or a packed lunch for more flexibility.

How early should I book?
Booking about 29 days in advance is typical, but the tour is popular, especially in peak season.

Wrapping It Up

This 8-hour guided excursion from Riga offers an impressive introduction to Latvia and Lithuania, weaving together medieval ruins, baroque splendor, and a profound symbol of faith. The inclusion of entrance fees, comfortable transport, and a small-group size makes it an excellent value, especially for travelers eager to make the most of a single day.

If you’re passionate about history, love picturesque scenery, or want an authentic glimpse into Baltic culture and spirituality, this tour checks all those boxes. The knowledgeable guides and flexible pacing also make it accessible for a wide range of travelers, from solo explorers to small families.

For those who value meaningful sights, well-organized logistics, and a taste of both history and local traditions, this trip is a rewarding choice.

References

• Viator Tour Details