Riga: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Trip

Introduction

Traveling through the Baltics often means exploring enchanting castles, historic sites, and sacred places, but fitting all that into a single trip can be a challenge. This tour promises to do just that—taking you on a nine-hour journey across Latvia and Lithuania, with visits to Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses. Based on numerous reviews, it’s praised for its well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery.

What I find particularly appealing are three standout features: the chance to see two countries in one day, the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like Rundale Palace without queues, and the insightful commentary provided by the guides. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the long day’s pace—if you prefer slow, leisurely explorations, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an easy, rundown of the Baltics’ highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transport links. Whether you’re short on time or eager to maximize your sightseeing, this trip offers a practical way to tick off major must-see spots while enjoying comfortable transport and expert guidance.

Good To Know

• Visit two countries in one day with seamless border crossings.
• Enjoy expertly guided tours with detailed printouts and audio guides.
• See iconic sites like Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses.
• Flexible free time at Rundale Palace for exploring or lunch.
• Comfortable transport and professional drivers make the day smooth.
• Ideal for travelers short on time who want a broad overview of Latvian and Lithuanian highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Riga’s St. Peter’s Church

The adventure kicks off from the centrally located St. Peter’s Church in Riga Old Town, a well-known landmark that’s easy to find and a natural meeting point. From here, you’ll board a comfortable vehicle, ready for a day packed with sightseeing. The transport is described as a van or car, ensuring a cozy, air-conditioned ride that’s much preferred over public transport or self-driving—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Bauska Medieval Castle: A Step Back in Time

The first major stop is Bauska Castle, a fortress dating back to medieval times. You’ll have around an hour here, with enough time to climb the recently renovated tower and appreciate the castle’s history from above. The castle ruins and the surrounding landscape give an authentic sense of medieval life, and the opportunity to explore the castle walls at your own pace.

Reviewers note that the castle’s tower renovation has added a new dimension to the visit, allowing better appreciation of its structure and strategic importance. The opportunity to climb the tower isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing a tangible piece of history.

Scenic Border Crossing and Lithuanian Hill of Crosses

Next, the journey takes you to the Latvia-Lithuania border crossing, a brief stop perfect for photos or simply taking in the moment. This small but meaningful pause is a reminder of how easily you’re crossing national borders in a single day, making it an exciting experience for those interested in regional history.

The highlight of the Lithuanian leg is the Hill of Crosses, a site filled with thousands of crosses left by pilgrims and visitors over decades. One review mentions that the site is “something extraordinary” and worth the drive. If you bring your own cross, you can add to the collection—locals also sell crosses here, offering a chance to take home a meaningful souvenir.

A self-guided tour here allows for reflection, photos, and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. An audio guide available for your phone enhances your understanding, making this stop both moving and educational.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rundale Palace: The Latvian Versailles

The tour’s crown jewel is Rundale Palace, often called the “Versailles of the Baltics” due to its elegant architecture and sprawling gardens. You’ll have about two hours here—ample time for a self-guided exploration of the palace’s ornate rooms and beautifully maintained gardens.

The reviews repeatedly mention that visiting without queues is a major plus—this tour includes pre-purchased tickets, saving you time and frustration. The palace offers audio guides for your phone, with free Wi-Fi at the site, allowing you to learn about its history while marveling at its intricate design.

The free time at Rundale also provides the flexibility to walk through the gardens, take photos, or enjoy a meal at the palace restaurant—if you prefer to maximize your experience, bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.

Bauska Castle and Return

After Rundale, you’ll have a final short stop at Bauska Castle to check out the ruins and climb the castle tower again, with around 15 minutes allocated for this. It’s a great way to round off your visit, giving you another perspective on this historic site.

The journey back to Riga wraps up the day, with the vehicle returning you to St. Peter’s Church. The entire experience is designed to flow smoothly, with a comfortable pace for sightseeing and enough flexibility for personal interests.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes transfers from Riga, an English-speaking driver, printed information sheets, and audio guides—offering a well-rounded, guided experience without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking multiple tickets. For about 9 hours, the value lies in the convenience, expert guidance, and access to top sights, making it a strong option for those who want an overview without extensive planning.

While lunch isn’t included, the two-hour free time at Rundale allows you to eat at your leisure—either bringing your own snacks or enjoying the palace’s restaurant, which is praised for its setting and menu options.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a minimum of three participants for the tour to run, the group size tends to be small to medium, fostering a friendly atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of guides like Viesturs, who’s praised for his clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

Cost and Overall Value

Cost-wise, this tour offers good value considering it covers transportation, entry tickets, and guides. It’s especially beneficial for those who prefer organized excursions over solo planning, as it spares you the headache of border crossings and ticket queues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for busy travelers eager to see Latvia and Lithuania’s top sights in a single day. It’s ideal if you’re interested in history and architecture, love scenic landscapes, and value comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of cultural sites and natural beauty, this tour delivers. Enthusiasts of guided commentary and those looking for insider tips will benefit from the knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers a thoughtfully curated snapshot of Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights, blending history, culture, and stunning scenery in a single day. The inclusion of key sites like Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses makes it a comprehensive experience, especially for first-time visitors.

The professional guides and well-organized logistics ensure you spend more time enjoying the sites than stressing over arrangements. The flexibility at Rundale Palace, with free time for exploration and lunch, adds to the overall value.

While the pace is brisk, most travelers will find this a satisfying way to cover a lot of ground and learn about the region’s heritage. It’s best suited for adventurous, curious travelers who want the convenience of a guided day trip with rich, authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from St. Peter’s Church in Riga in a comfortable vehicle.

Do I need my passport or ID?
Absolutely. It’s mandatory to bring your passport or EU ID to pass border checks between Latvia and Lithuania.

Can I bring my own lunch?
You can bring snacks or a packed lunch to enjoy during the free time at Rundale Palace, or opt to dine at the palace restaurant at your own expense.

What guides are provided?
An English-speaking driver/guide is with you throughout the day, offering commentary and printed sheets about each site. There’s also an audio guide for the Hill of Crosses on your phone.

How much time is spent at each location?
You’ll spend approximately an hour at Bauska Castle, one hour at the Hill of Crosses, and around two hours at Rundale Palace, plus some transit time.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, especially if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Climbing the castle tower is optional, but age or mobility restrictions aren’t specified.

What is the group size?
The tour runs with at least three participants and tends to be small to medium-sized, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide explaining the history of each site?
Yes, guides provide informative commentary, and printed materials are available for further learning during the day.

This tour balances comfort, education, and scenic beauty, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free way to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s most iconic sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: