From Riga: Hill of Crosses, Bauska & Rundale Full-Day Tour

Exploring the Baltics: A Full-Day Journey from Riga to Lithuania’s Architectural and Cultural Gems

This carefully curated private tour offers a fantastic way to see Lithuania’s most iconic sights in just one day without feeling rushed. It’s a well-balanced mix of spiritual sites, regal palaces, and medieval castles — perfect if you’re short on time but eager to experience some of the region’s highlights.

One of the standout perks is the personalized experience. With a private guide, you get tailored attention, flexible pacing, and insider knowledge that you wouldn’t typically find on larger group tours. The scenic drive between sites offers a relaxed opportunity to enjoy the countryside and learn about the history from your guide.

A possible consideration is the length of the day—with about 7 hours including travel, some travelers might find it a bit packed, especially if they prefer a slower, more in-depth visit. Still, the tour strikes a good balance between seeing the highlights and having enough free time to explore on your own.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate cultural, historical, and architectural sights, and who enjoy leveraging private guides for a more intimate, flexible day out. If you love discovering new places with personalized attention, this tour is likely to hit the right notes.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Includes visits to three major sights: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle
• Flexible itinerary options for lunch and additional visits
• Beautiful scenic drives between sites with plenty of photo opportunities
• Focus on historical and spiritual significance of each location
• Good value for a full-day private tour, especially with expert guidance

An In-Depth Look at the Highlights

The Hill of Crosses: A Testament of Faith and Devotion

Our journey begins at the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, about a two-hour drive from Riga. This site is a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and personal devotion. As you arrive, you’ll notice an almost overwhelming number of crosses—some small and simple, others large and ornate—covering the hillside.

What makes this spot fascinating is not just the visual impact but the stories behind it. Visitors have been leaving crosses here for decades, often as acts of hope or remembrance. The legend and spiritual atmosphere are palpable as you walk among the crosses, feeling a sense of reverence.

One reviewer shared how “the Hill of Crosses is something very much worth seeing,” emphasizing its emotional pull. The site is free to visit, but the atmosphere is what makes it stand out—an open-air shrine that speaks to unyielding faith.

Rundale Palace: A Baroque Jewel of the Baltics

Next stop is the Rundale Palace, often called the “Versailles of Latvia,” though it’s technically in Lithuania. This opulent palace is a true highlight for lovers of architecture and grandeur. Built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Duke of Courland, it oozes Baroque elegance.

Inside, you’ll find intricately gilded ceilings, frescoed walls, and ornate stuccoes. Walking through the grand halls feels like stepping back in time to a world of aristocratic splendor. The gardens surrounding the palace are equally stunning—vibrant and well-maintained, perfect for a relaxed stroll to take in the scenery.

According to reviews, visitors appreciated the guided tour of the interior and the freedom to explore at their own pace. One guest mentioned that “the Palace and Gardens were fantastic,” and that the experience felt like an authentic glimpse into regal life.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Tales Come Alive

The last major site is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress with a history dating back to the 15th century. Its towers and walls tell stories of knights, feudal lords, and strategic battles. Climbing the towers and walking the ancient hallways, you can almost hear echoes of medieval life.

The castle is surrounded by a lush park with exotic plants and trees, adding a tranquil contrast to the fortress’s historic grit. This setting allows for a peaceful reflection on the past, especially after the more ornate Rundale Palace.

Guests have noted the guided tours here as a highlight, with the guide sharing engaging stories that bring the castle’s history to life. One reviewer highlighted how the “stories of medieval life and feudal lords” added a vivid dimension to the visit.

The Practicalities: What to Expect on the Tour

Transportation and Timing

The tour uses a comfortable van, making the roughly 2-hour drive from Riga manageable and relaxed. The itinerary is well-organized, with scenic drives between each site, allowing for plenty of photo stops and commentary from your guide.

The day starts with a hotel pickup—be sure to be ready in the hotel lobby about 10 minutes early. The total duration is around 7 hours, which includes travel, sightseeing, and some free time at each stop. You’ll visit each site in a logical sequence, reducing unnecessary back-and-forth.

Flexibility and Personalization

One major advantage of this private tour is the flexibility. Guests can choose whether to have lunch before or after the first stop, or skip it altogether if they prefer more time at a specific site. The tour guide is experienced in tailoring the experience based on your interests and pace.

Guides and Language

The tour offers guides fluent in English and Russian, ensuring clear, engaging explanations about each site. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Normunds and Juri for their knowledge and friendly approach. They’re also well-prepared—offering waters, umbrellas, and practical advice.

Entry Tickets and Cost

While the tour price includes pickup, drop-off, and guided commentary, entry tickets to the castles are not included. Visitors should budget for these separately. Still, considering the private guide, transportation, and flexibility, many find the overall value very reasonable.

Total Value

For a full-day private experience with personalized attention, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a curated, comfortable way to see Lithuania’s top sights without the stress of self-driving or group bus tours.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Details

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Normunds and Juri are a big part of what makes this tour special. They go beyond just pointing out sights—they share stories, answer questions, and even suggest extra stops, like visiting Pakruojis Manor or a flower festival, which some guests found very worthwhile.

Guests also appreciate the attention to practical details, like water bottles, umbrellas, and being able to explore each site without feeling rushed. The guide’s flexibility in adjusting the itinerary based on guests’ preferences creates a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

One reviewer noted that the tour “started by laying out options and letting us communicate our preferences,” which is a huge plus for those who want more control over their day.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private day trip from Riga suits travelers eager to see Lithuania’s key sites with a guide that caters to their pace and interests. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about history and culture through engaging storytelling, all while traveling comfortably in a private vehicle. The tour’s highlights—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—are breathtaking and offer a well-rounded look at the region’s spiritual, regal, and medieval sides.

If you’re someone who appreciates personal attention, flexibility, and expert guidance, this trip will meet and exceed expectations. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid large bus tours and enjoy a more intimate, tailored experience.

However, if your schedule is very tight or you’re looking for a very leisurely pace, you might find the full itinerary slightly packed. But for most, the mix of sights, stories, and scenic drives creates a satisfying, memorable day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small children or families?
The tour is private, so it’s adaptable. While it’s primarily designed for adults, families with children comfortable with walking and sightseeing should find it manageable. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions or recommendations.

How long is each stop?
The stops generally last around an hour each, with some flexibility depending on your interests. The total tour lasts about 7 hours, including travel time.

Are entry tickets to the castles included?
No, entry tickets are not included in the price. You should budget separately for tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, your guide is experienced in tailoring the tour based on your preferences. You can decide to spend more time at certain sites or add extra stops, like a local manor or festival.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, providing clear and engaging commentary in either language.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

This full-day private tour from Riga to Lithuania’s most iconic sites offers a rich blend of spirituality, regal splendor, and medieval history. It’s a perfect way to add depth and variety to your Baltic trip while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a tailored experience.