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

Traveling through the Baltics often feels like flipping through a storybook filled with centuries of faith, art, and medieval intrigue. This private day tour from Riga is a fantastic way to see some of Lithuania’s most iconic sites—namely the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the flexibility and personal touch of a private guide. Second, the variety of sites packed into one day ensures you’ll get a rich taste of Baltic history and culture. Lastly, the tour offers deep insights from guides who are knowledgeable and eager to share local stories.

That said, a potential consideration is the need to purchase entry tickets separately for the castles, which adds a bit to the overall cost. It’s ideal for travelers who love history, stunning views, and cultural stories, especially if you prefer a customized experience over large group tours.

Good To Know

• Private, flexible tour designed for personalized experiences.
• Visiting three major sites: the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local stories.
• Time-efficient with around 7 hours of sightseeing from Riga.
• Cost includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Entry tickets are not included, so budget accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This trip is crafted for those who want to see the Baltics’ highlights in a single day with comfort and flexibility. The tour begins with hotel pickup in Riga, setting the tone for a comfortable journey that avoids the hassle of public transportation or driving yourself. The entire experience spans about 7 hours, which is a good balance—enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

The tour is private, so you’re not lumped into a large group—more intimacy means your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests. The guides, who speak both English and Russian, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and practical preparedness, often providing water, umbrellas, and extra tips to enhance your visit.

Transportation & Timing

The journey is primarily by van, with approximately 2 hours on the road each way, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The itinerary is carefully planned to maximize your sightseeing time while keeping the day manageable.

Flexibility & Customization

One of the standout features, according to reviews, is the guide’s flexibility. You’ll start the day with a discussion about your preferences—whether you’d like more time at Rundale Palace or a quick visit to the Hill of Crosses. As one reviewer highlighted, guides are willing to adjust to your pace and interests, making your experience more personalized.

Exploring the Hill of Crosses

Your first stop is the famous Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, a site that truly leaves a mark on visitors. It’s a place where thousands of crosses, of all sizes and styles, create a profound visual and spiritual impact. Many travelers find it both moving and fascinating—an unmissable symbol of faith and devotion.

What you’ll love about this stop is the opportunity to walk among the crosses, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. One reviewer described it as “something very much worth seeing,” emphasizing the spiritual energy of the site. It’s a photo-worthy location, but more than that, it offers a sense of the perseverance and faith of generations.

A practical note: the visit lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to explore at your own pace without feeling hurried. Be prepared for uneven terrain and perhaps bring some comfortable shoes for walking among crosses of different heights and materials.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rundale Palace: The Baltic Baroque Jewel

Next, you’ll head to Rundale Palace, often dubbed the “Versailles of the Baltics.” This Baroque palace is a breathtaking showcase of craftsmanship, with ornate stucco decorations, gilded details, and stunning frescoes adorning the halls.

Highlights at Rundale include the luxurious interiors, where you can imagine what life was like for Baltic aristocracy centuries ago. The immaculate gardens are equally impressive, offering vibrant blooms and scenic views perfect for a leisurely stroll.

What travelers love is how well-preserved and opulent the palace is. One review notes that walking through the ornate chambers evokes feelings of royalty. It’s a highlight for lovers of art and architecture, as well as those seeking a taste of grandeur.

You’ll have about an hour here for photos, a self-guided tour, and exploration of the gardens. If you opt to skip lunch, you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy this site thoroughly.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Stories Come Alive

The final major stop is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress that has seen centuries of history. Walking through its towers and halls, you’ll feel transported back to a time when knights and nobles roamed these grounds.

What makes Bauska special is its combination of history, architecture, and surrounding scenery. The castle’s towers offer great views, and the lush park with exotic plants gives a peaceful setting to reflect on the past.

One reviewer remarked that exploring the castle’s halls and towers was like stepping into a storybook, with the added bonus of a guided tour that brings the medieval tales to life.

You can spend about an hour here, walking the grounds and soaking in the historic atmosphere.

The Return Journey and Flexibility

After the castle visit, you’ll hop back into the van for the return trip to Riga. The route includes scenic views and a chance to relax after a busy day. Some guides are known for their local recommendations during the ride, such as visiting nearby attractions or trying local cuisine if you extend your trip.

Total time at the sites varies depending on your preferences, but generally, the tour offers a good balance—enough time for meaningful visits without overextending your day.

Cost and Value

While the tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off and an expert guide, it does not include entry tickets to the castles. This means you’ll need to budget for those separately, which could add approximately €10-€20 per site, depending on current prices.

What travelers find appealing is the overall value—getting a private, flexible experience with knowledgeable guides at this price point is considered reasonable, especially given the convenience and personalized attention. Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Normunds and Juri make the day special through their friendliness, flexibility, and insight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for history buffs and culture lovers who want a comprehensive, yet relaxed exploration of Baltic highlights. It’s ideal if you prefer private tours that can adapt to your interests.

Travelers who enjoy stunning architecture, scenic landscapes, or spiritual sites will find this itinerary packed with memorable moments. The comfortable transportation and professional guides also make it suitable for those who want a hassle-free experience.

The Sum Up

This full-day private tour from Riga offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Baltics’ spiritual, aristocratic, and medieval past. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a personalized, flexible day that combines history, architecture, and stunning scenery. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness elevate the experience, making each site more meaningful.

While you’ll need to cover entry ticket costs separately, the overall value remains high, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour’s mix of faith at the Hill of Crosses, grandeur at Rundale Palace, and medieval stories at Bauska Castle ensures a varied, enriching day.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated experience that balances cultural richness with scenic beauty, this trip is an excellent choice, especially if you’re eager for a private, tailored adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour private or a group experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning you’re accompanied by a guide and vehicle dedicated solely to your group for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert guide, and a tailor-made itinerary. Entry tickets to the castles are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Do I need to pay for entry tickets separately?
Yes, tickets for the castles and the Hill of Crosses are paid separately. Be sure to budget around €10-€20 per site.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, offering flexible communication options.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. Guides are known for their flexibility, allowing you to choose how long to stay at each site and suggesting additional stops if interested.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some walking or uneven terrain might be involved, especially at the Hill of Crosses and Bauska Castle.

What about lunch?
The tour includes the option to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, but if you prefer, you can skip it and still have ample time to explore.

How does the scheduling work?
Start times vary based on availability, so it’s best to check and book in advance to secure your preferred slot.

In summary, this tour provides a well-balanced mix of faith, art, and medieval history with the comfort and customization of a private experience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to see the Baltics’ highlights without rushing, all while enjoying insightful guides and scenic views.

You can check if your dates are available here: