From Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundale &Bauska Private Day Trip

If you’re looking to explore some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sites without the hassle of navigating yourself, this private day trip from Riga offers a well-rounded taste of Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural gems. With a knowledgeable driver at the wheel, you’ll visit the sacred Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, marvel at the grandeur of Rundale Palace, and wander through the atmospheric ruins of Bauska Castle. The trip promises a blend of spiritual, architectural, and medieval history—all wrapped into one satisfying eight-hour adventure.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the personalized touch. It’s private, flexible, and thoughtfully designed to maximize your sightseeing while offering enough time to soak in each location. One of the standout features, especially highlighted in reviews, is the quality of the guiding—your driver is not only friendly but also well-informed about each site, making the journey both educational and engaging. However, it’s worth noting that entry tickets to the castles aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of spiritual sites, stunning architecture, and medieval history, all with the convenience of private transportation. If you’re someone who prefers a flexible schedule and authentic local experiences, this trip could become a highlight of your Baltic adventure.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: The tour is customized for your group, with pickup and drop-off from your Riga accommodation.
• Culturally Rich Stops: It includes Latvia’s Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, plus Lithuania’s revered Hill of Crosses.
• Expert Driver: The English-speaking driver provides insightful commentary and helps navigate the logistics.
• Worth Planning for Entry Fees: While transportation and guiding are covered, tickets to castles are not included—plan accordingly.
• Authentic Experience: The tour offers a personal, less touristy experience compared to larger group excursions.
• Ideal for History and Architecture Lovers: Perfect if you’re fascinated by medieval sites, baroque palaces, and religious symbols.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

Pickup and Journey Start

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Riga, where your driver—who speaks English and is friendly and professional—waits with a sign bearing your name. This private setup means no waiting around or crowded groups; instead, you get a relaxed start to your Baltic adventure. The duration is approximately 8 hours, and you’re free to check available start times, which adds flexibility.

Stop 1: The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

First stop is the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s as visually striking as it is spiritually profound. You’ll spend about an hour wandering among thousands of crosses, some small and simple, others large and ornate. The site has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries and is a symbol of faith, resilience, and Lithuanian identity.

We loved the way the guide (or driver, if no official guide is arranged) explains the significance of the crosses—each one representing a prayer, a hope, or a memorial. The atmosphere here is contemplative, and the sheer number of crosses makes it a truly unique experience. One reviewer, Günter, noted that the trip during the off-season meant they were mostly alone with this awe-inspiring sight, allowing for great photos and quiet reflection.

Stop 2: Rundale Palace

Next, you head to Rundale Palace, roughly a 1.5-hour stop. This architectural marvel was once a summer residence for the Dukes of Courland. Walking through its ornate halls feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with exquisite artwork, intricate furnishings, and lush gardens. The landscaped grounds include vibrant flowerbeds, majestic fountains, and pathways perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The guide or driver will share stories about the palace’s history, emphasizing its baroque and rococo influences. Given the reviews, the palace’s interior is a highlight, with many visitors praising the level of preservation and the elegance of its rooms.

Stop 3: Bauska Castle Ruins

The final stop is the Bauska Castle ruins, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Latvia’s medieval past. The weathered stone walls and atmospheric ruins are perfect for those interested in history and photography. From the castle’s vantage points, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Musa and Mēmele rivers, adding a scenic backdrop to your exploration.

You’ll spend about an hour here, wandering through the remnants of what once was a strategic medieval fortress. It’s a site that invites imagination—what stories these stones could tell.

Return to Riga

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to your Riga accommodation, arriving approximately eight hours after departure. The private nature of the trip means you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences without feeling rushed.

Incorporating the Authentic Traveler Experience

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledge and friendliness of the driver, Martins, who made the trip entertaining and informative. His stories and suggestions enhanced the experience, making it more than just sightseeing—more like visiting a friend in the Baltics.

Travelers also appreciated the “off-season” timing, which meant fewer crowds and better photo opportunities. Many reviewers found the trip to be excellent value for the personalized attention and the variety of sites visited.

However, as entry tickets are not included, you should plan for additional costs at each site. The driver can help point out ticket offices and recommend good local restaurants, adding to the trip’s convenience.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The private vehicle is comfortable, air-conditioned, and suited for small groups or couples. This setup ensures a quiet, personalized experience.

Timing: Check availability to match your preferred start time. Each stop is planned to optimize your day, avoiding long waits or rushed visits.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential since you’ll be exploring uneven terrain at Bauska and walking around the palace grounds.

Cost Consideration: While the tour price covers transportation and guiding, entry fees are separate. Budget for tickets if you want to go inside the castles and palace.

Language: The driver speaks English and provides helpful commentary, but this isn’t a guided tour, so if you want detailed historical insights at each site, consider arranging a guide in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a personalized experience and are eager to see some of the Baltic region’s most iconic landmarks without the constraints of a large group. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and spiritual site seekers. If you’re interested in capturing stunning photos and enjoying a relaxed pace, this tour’s flexibility and private setup will serve you well.

It’s also an excellent choice for those who enjoy delicious local food and scenic views, thanks to the inclusion of recommendations for good restaurants and beautiful surroundings at each stop.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Riga offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances history, architecture, and spiritual significance. The convenience of private transportation, combined with an attentive driver and the chance to visit both Lithuanian and Latvian landmarks, makes it a compelling option.

While you’ll need to budget extra for entry tickets, the overall experience delivers excellent value—especially if you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic way to explore these two countries’ cultural treasures. Whether it’s your first time in the Baltics or a return visit, this trip is likely to leave you with memorable images and stories.

For those who appreciate a mix of historical depth, scenic beauty, and cultural richness, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore beyond Riga’s city limits with a focus on meaningful, authentic sites.

FAQ

Do I need to arrange my own tickets for the sites?
Yes, entry tickets to the castles and palace are not included. You should plan to purchase tickets at each location.

What is the pickup location?
Pickup is at your hotel or accommodation in Riga, making the start seamless and comfortable.

Is this a guided tour inside the sites?
No, it’s not a guided tour. Your driver provides essential information during transport, but if you want a detailed guide at each site, you can arrange licensed guide services separately.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including transit and sightseeing time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking around the sites. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. However, the driver can recommend local restaurants for lunch, often with regional specialties.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private group, so it’s just you, your travel companions, and the driver, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there flexibility with the schedule?
Yes, you can check available start times, and the itinerary is flexible enough to suit your pace and interests.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

In summary, this tour makes for a well-rounded, authentic exploration of the Baltic region’s highlights. It offers comfort, flexibility, and insight—ideal for travelers who want a meaningful day out without the constraints of large-group tours.