Vilnius: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle Trip

If you’re looking for a seamless way to explore some of the most iconic sights between Lithuania and Latvia, this full-day guided tour from Vilnius to Riga might just be the answer. It packs in three fascinating stops—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and optionally, Bauska Castle—all while providing comfortable private transport to maximize your sightseeing time.

What I particularly appreciate about this trip is the door-to-door service—it takes the hassle out of organizing transport or worrying about border crossings. Plus, with a knowledgeable driver and a well-paced itinerary, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a structured yet authentic experience. One potential downside? The duration means you’ll be on the road quite a bit, so it’s best suited for those with a day to spare and a keen interest in history, architecture, and spiritual sites.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see Latvia’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or navigating public transport. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, want a bit of cultural immersing, and prefer a small, private group setting for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport ensures a stress-free journey with air-conditioning and reliable service.
• Visit to the Hill of Crosses offers a unique spiritual and folk art experience with over 100,000 crosses.
• Rundale Palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and history, designed by Rastrelli.
• Optional stop at Bauska Castle enriches the trip with medieval history and photo opportunities.
• The tour is flexible in timing but lasts around 8 hours, making it suitable for a full-day adventure.
• You’ll need your passport or ID card, as the journey crosses an international border.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Transport and Ease of Travel

Starting with the pickup from your Vilnius hotel or accommodation, you’ll immediately notice how smoothly the day begins. The private vehicle is comfortable, modern, and air-conditioned—perfect for the approximately 2.5-hour drive to the Hill of Crosses. The driver, as reviews note, is punctual and helpful—one traveler, Alexandr, specifically praised the driver’s punctuality and assistance. Having a professional behind the wheel means you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and focus on the upcoming stops.

The Hill of Crosses: A Spiritual Landmark

Arriving at the Hill of Crosses feels almost like entering a sacred, living monument. With over 100,000 crosses of all sizes, shapes, and materials, it’s a striking example of folk art and religious expression. The site has roots dating back to the 19th century, initially started by the families of rebels from the 1831 uprising. Today, it’s a pilgrimage site, even visited by Pope John Paul II, which only adds to its spiritual aura.

We loved the way the site blends history, faith, and culture in such a tangible way. The crosses are unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere—some are simple wooden tokens, while others are elaborate metal or stone sculptures. The site’s authenticity remains intact, and many visitors find a sense of serenity in the quiet reverence of the place.

Rundale Palace: Baroque Grandeur

After exploring the crosses, your drive to Rundale Palace takes about 40 minutes. This grand estate was built by the famous architect Rastrelli, also known for his work on the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. It was originally commissioned as a summer residence for the Dukes of Courland, and its impressive façade, intricate gardens, and ornate interiors make it truly a highlight.

Within the palace, you can expect opulent rooms, frescoed ceilings, and period furniture that transport you back to 18th-century aristocratic life. The grounds are just as stunning, with manicured gardens offering splendid views and photo opportunities. One reviewer noted that they appreciated the detailed architecture and the chance to see a significant example of Baroque design outside of a typical European capital.

Bauska Castle: A Medieval Photo Stop

While optional, many choose to stop at Bauska Castle for a quick look at Latvia’s medieval history. Though not part of the core tour, this stop is valued for its scenic fortress ruins and the chance to snap some memorable photos of its towers and ramparts. It’s a brief but enriching addition, giving context to the region’s long history of conflict and settlement.

The Drive to Riga

After the palace visit, it’s around an hour’s drive to Riga, the Latvian capital. This time is perfect for relaxing, reflecting on the day, or asking your driver questions about local culture and history. The journey back offers a chance to enjoy the Baltic scenery, with fields, forests, and small towns rushing past your window.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included elements—hotel pick-up, private transportation, visits to the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—make this trip excellent value for those wanting a curated experience. The fuel, parking, and taxes are all covered, so there are no hidden fees.

However, keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to pay separately if you want to go inside any of the sites. Also, lunch isn’t provided, so plan to bring snacks or a light meal if you get hungry.

About the Price

While the cost isn’t specified here, considering the convenience and the high-quality transport, the tour offers good value. You’re paying for the comfort of private, direct transfers and expert guidance, which can be worth it for busy travelers or those unfamiliar with the region.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking at each stop—especially at the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace.
• Pack your passport or ID card because you’ll cross an international border between Lithuania and Latvia.
• Dress appropriately; the sites are outdoor-friendly, and weather can vary.
• Be mindful of the timing—check the start times to ensure your day fits your schedule.
• If you’ve got specific interests, like architecture or religious sites, mention this during booking or early in the day to tailor your experience.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

Reviews reinforce that the driver’s punctuality and helpfulness make a tangible difference. One traveler noted, “Driver was very punctual and helpful,” which underlines the importance of a reliable guide in such trips. Others mentioned the serene atmosphere at the Hill of Crosses and the stunning architecture of Rundale Palace as highlights.

Some travelers appreciated the flexibility of the optional Bauska Castle stop, allowing for a more personalized experience. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each location to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Baltic culture. Its private group setting ensures a personalized touch, making it perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy tailored experiences.

It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a stress-free, organized day—no need to worry about navigation, border crossing logistics, or parking. If you’re short on time but want to see Latvia’s key sites, this tour offers a rundown without the hassle.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a fantastic blend of spiritual, historical, and architectural sights in a day, all wrapped up with the convenience of private transport and door-to-door service. You’ll get to witness the deeply symbolic Hill of Crosses, marvel at the Baroque splendor of Rundale Palace, and enjoy a quick glimpse of Latvia’s medieval past at Bauska Castle.

It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience without the complexity of planning individual transfers or border crossings. The flexibility, knowledgeable driver, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a worthwhile choice.

While you’ll need to prepare for a full day on the road, the experience rewards with meaningful sights and the chance to connect with Latvian culture and history. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Baltic explorer, this trip offers a well-balanced taste of the region’s highlights.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my passport or ID card?
Yes. Since the trip crosses an international border between Lithuania and Latvia, you’ll need your passport or ID card for crossing.

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the price covers private, air-conditioned transportation, including fuel, parking, and taxes.

Are entrance tickets included?
No. Entrance tickets to sites like Rundale Palace or the Hill of Crosses are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to go inside.

Can I stop at Bauska Castle?
Yes, it’s an optional stop. Many travelers find it a worthwhile photo opportunity and a quick historical peek.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Vilnius to the Hill of Crosses is about 2.5 hours; from there, it’s around 40 minutes to Rundale Palace, and about 1 hour to Riga after the palace visit.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is generally suitable, consider the walking involved and the ages of children. Comfortable shoes and some patience for travel are recommended.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, passport or ID, and perhaps some snacks. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour lasts around 8 hours with set stops, but the itinerary can be flexible depending on your interests and timing preferences. Check the start times when booking.

This trip strikes a nice balance between comfort, culture, and history, making it a rewarding way to explore Latvia’s best sights in a single day.