From Riga: Trip to Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace & Bauska

Travelers seeking a mix of regal beauty, medieval history, and spiritual reflection will find this day trip from Riga an engaging adventure. Covering Latvia and Lithuania, the tour takes you to three iconic sites: the opulent Rundale Palace, the historic Bauska Castle, and the compelling Hill of Crosses. Each stop promises a different facet of Baltic culture, history, and resilience, making it an appealing choice for those who want a well-rounded glimpse into the region.

What we love about this experience is the combination of stunning architecture and meaningful history in a manageable day trip. You get to see Latvia’s version of Versailles without the crowds, explore a medieval fortress with panoramic views, and end with a visit to a deeply moving site of faith. The tour is designed to offer comfort, insight, and a chance for reflection, all within 8 hours.

A potential consideration is that the group size is limited to 8 people, which is great for personalized attention but could feel crowded if you prefer solo or private tours. Also, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exploration, so comfortable shoes are a must. Overall, it’s best suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those curious about Baltic spirituality who want a balanced, value-packed day out.

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary covering three diverse sites in one day.
• Comfortable transportation with a professional driver and informative printed guides.
• Flexible and transparent booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Expert guides (notably the highly praised Tom) enhance the experience with their knowledge.
• Includes entry fees for key attractions like Rundale Palace’s gardens and Bauska Castle tower.
• Limited group size for a more personalized and engaging experience.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour offers a thoughtfully planned day, balancing travel time and exploration at each locale. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot but also appreciate meaningful insights and comfortable logistics. The tour’s highlights include no queues at Rundale Palace, a chance to wander the French-style gardens, and catch a sweeping view from the Bauska Castle tower. The Hill of Crosses adds a spiritual and emotional dimension, giving visitors a chance to reflect on resilience and faith.

The 8-hour duration makes it a full day but not exhausting, with enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed. The tour generally begins at Riga’s Town Hall square, with a neat, air-conditioned vehicle and a friendly, professional driver ready to make the journey smooth. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) encourages interaction with the guide and more flexibility during stops.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Riga to Rundale Palace (Approximately 110 minutes travel time)

The first leg of the journey takes you from Riga to Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s “Little Versailles” because of its grandeur. Built in the 18th century for the Duke of Courland, the palace is a striking example of Baroque architecture, with lavish interiors and expansive gardens.

Once there, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore. You’ll love the Golden Hall and White Hall, which hosted many royal events, and the carefully maintained French-inspired gardens. The Rose Garden is a highlight, with hundreds of roses blooming in season. Reviewers often mention that experiencing the gardens without the usual crowds makes it all the more special.

A reviewer, Ray, noted that the guide, Tom, was very communicative and made the visit smooth. There’s mention of the palace’s heating system impressing visitors, which hints at the level of care taken in maintaining this historic estate.

Stop 2: Bauska Castle (Approximately 1 hour)

Next, you’ll head to Bauska Castle, situated where the Msa and Mēmele rivers meet. The site features ruins of a 15th-century fortress and a Renaissance residence. This mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture offers a tangible sense of the region’s past.

Once there, expect about an hour to walk around, learn about its role as a defense point, and climb the sightseeing tower for a panoramic view of the lush countryside. Our review mentions that the tower offers fantastic views—a favorite among visitors seeking that perfect photo or just a moment of quiet reflection above the landscape.

Stop 3: Hill of Crosses (Approx. 40 minutes)

The final stop is the Hill of Crosses, a site that embodies resilience and faith. The hill is covered with thousands of crosses, ranging from tiny handmade ones to large, ornate displays. It’s a deeply moving place, especially considering its history as a symbol of resistance during times of repression.

Visitors are encouraged to walk, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. One reviewer described it as a site of faith and hope, which is exactly what many find compelling. The guided tour here adds context to why this site is so cherished—it’s more than just a collection of crosses; it’s a testament to perseverance.

Transportation and Comfort

The transportation in a modern, comfortable van (either Opel Vivaro or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) is a highlight. Reviewers appreciate the smooth ride, with one mentioning that the driver was very friendly and accommodating. The vehicle’s climate control and spacious seating make the long drive pleasant, especially on a sunny day.

The tour includes printout sheets with detailed information about each site, which helps enrich the experience and caters to those who love reading up beforehand.

Value and Price

While the exact price isn’t explicitly mentioned here, the tour includes entry fees for the gardens at Rundale Palace and the tower at Bauska Castle, plus transportation and guided commentary, making it a comprehensive package. The reviews suggest that the value is high, especially considering the travel, guided insights, and hassle-free logistics.

For those who want a full-day experience with minimal planning, this tour offers excellent value. It’s an efficient way to see Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights without the need to rent cars or organize separate tickets.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, culture, and spirituality in a small-group setting. It suits travelers who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, especially those who appreciate stunning architecture and meaningful sites.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer comfortable transportation and want to avoid the hassle of arranging individual visits. Since the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, it’s best for active travelers in comfortable shoes. Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

The Sum Up

This Riga-based day trip offers a well-rounded experience that covers some of the most interesting sites in Latvia and Lithuania, including a palace, a medieval fortress, and a deeply symbolic religious site. The professional guides, especially the highly praised Tom, add value through their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the journey engaging and memorable.

The scenic views at Bauska Castle, the magnificence of Rundale Palace, and the powerful atmosphere of the Hill of Crosses combine to create a day that’s both visually stunning and emotionally meaningful. It’s a good choice for those who want to see the highlights without rushing, in a small group that allows for personalized attention.

Overall, if you’re after a convenient, insightful, and beautiful way to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights in one day, this tour will likely meet and even exceed your expectations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
This tour involves walking around outdoor sites and climbing a tower at Bauska Castle. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and water. The outdoor nature of the sites means you’ll want to be prepared for walking and possibly changing weather.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English, with a professional guide providing insightful commentary throughout the day.

How many people participate in the tour?
The group is limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

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

Is the tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the specific date, so check with the provider for current options, especially in winter or off-season.

This day trip from Riga balances comfort, insight, and stunning sights, making it a worthwhile addition to any Baltic itinerary. Whether you’re captivated by regal architecture, medieval ruins, or sites of spiritual resilience, you’ll find this tour rewarding.