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

Traveling from Vilnius to Riga offers a fantastic opportunity to soak in some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning individual trips. While we haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of a well-structured, enriching day out. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience that combines spirituality, history, and stunning architecture—without breaking the bank or dealing with the logistics.

What we really love about this trip are three things: firstly, the door-to-door service keeps things simple, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Secondly, the well-chosen stops—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—offer diverse insights into Baltic culture, faith, and history. Lastly, the private transport with a professional driver makes the journey comfortable, flexible, and less stressful.

One potential consideration is that entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget separately for entry to the sites. This can be a pro or a con depending on how you prefer to organize your spending—some might appreciate the flexibility to choose what to visit, while others may prefer an all-inclusive package.

This tour caters best to travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a structured sightseeing experience. If you’re looking to maximize your time without the worry of navigating on your own, this trip offers a great balance of guided insight and independent exploration.

Good To Know

• Comfortable private transport ensures a stress-free day.
• Expert driver service provides punctuality and local knowledge.
• Visit three diverse attractions: spiritual Hill of Crosses, grand Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle.
• Flexible sightseeing with optional stops tailored to your interests.
• Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for added convenience.
• Cost-effective for those seeking an organized day trip with authentic sights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Trip’s Highlights

Starting with the Hill of Crosses

Our journey begins with a roughly 2.5-hour drive from Vilnius to the Hill of Crosses in Šiauliai. This site might be one of the most visually striking and spiritually compelling landmarks in the Baltic region. With an estimated 100,000 crosses of all sizes and styles, the site feels like a living testament to faith, resistance, and folk art.

What makes the Hill of Crosses special isn’t just the numbers but the stories behind them. Historically, the first crosses are believed to have been erected by families of rebels from the 1831 uprising, symbolizing hope and defiance. Today, it’s a place of pilgrimage, visited by Pope John Paul II, and it continues to inspire visitors with its raw authenticity and sense of devotion.

The site’s unique composition of folk art, faith, and resilience makes it more than just a photo op; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Reviewers like Alexandr praised the driver’s punctuality and helpfulness, which ensures you get ample time to soak in the atmosphere and snap some memorable shots.

Exploring Rundale Palace

Next, about 40 minutes away, we arrive at Rundale Palace, Latvia’s answer to Versailles—a grand Baroque building designed by Francesco Rastrelli, the same architect behind the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. Built in the mid-18th century for the Dukes of Courland, this palace epitomizes regal elegance with its ornate facades, luxurious interiors, and expansive gardens.

Walking through the palace’s opulent halls, you can imagine the lives of Latvian aristocrats and the grandeur of a bygone era. The rooms are beautifully preserved, and the intricate details—like gilded moldings and period furniture—offer a tangible sense of history. The gardens and grounds are equally impressive for a leisurely stroll.

The approximate 1-hour drive from the Hill of Crosses allows you to relax and reflect on the previous site’s spiritual significance while preparing for the regal splendor of Rundale.

Optional Stop at Bauska Castle

While not included in the core itinerary, many tours offer a photostop at Bauska Castle, which is a fantastic addition for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike. The castle’s ruins provide a dramatic backdrop for pictures and a glimpse into medieval Latvia’s defensive architecture.

This optional stop can be tailored based on your interests and time constraints. Reviewers mention that having this extra insight enriches the experience, adding a layer of historical context to the day.

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Concluding the Day in Riga

After the sightseeing, your driver will take you directly to your Riga accommodation, skipping the stress of navigating borders or public transport. The total driving time from Rundale Palace to Riga is about an hour, giving you some buffer time for photos or a quick rest before arriving in Latvia’s vibrant capital.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is designed to be 8 hours long, with the exact start time varying based on availability. You’ll be picked up from your Vilnius hotel or accommodation, with the private vehicle ensuring a comfortable journey. The air-conditioned transport makes the long drives more enjoyable, especially during warmer months.

Booking includes fuel, parking fees, and local taxes, simplifying your planning. However, you should budget separately for entrance tickets to each site, as they aren’t included.

The tour is hosted in English, and the group remains private—ideal for a more personalized experience. With flexible cancellation policies, you can plan confidently knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What to Pack

Comfortable shoes are a must, especially when exploring sites like the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace’s grounds. Since you’ll cross a national border, don’t forget your passport or ID card.

Price and Value

While the cost isn’t specified here, the tour’s all-inclusive focus on transportation, site visits, and door-to-door service suggests a good value for travelers seeking convenience without hidden fees. Remember, entrance fees are extra, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

A review from Alexandr notes, “Driver was very punctual and helpful,” highlighting the professionalism of the service. Such feedback underscores the importance of reliable transport for a day packed with multiple stops.

Another reviewer appreciated the efficiency and flexibility of the itinerary, mentioning that the stops made the trip feel well-paced. The ability to enjoy each site without feeling rushed seems to be a key advantage.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who value comfort and efficiency, especially those with limited time but a desire to see a broad swath of Baltic highlights. It’s suitable for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in cultural landmarks—plus, those who appreciate a personal, private experience.

Families, couples, or solo travelers can all benefit from the personalized, door-to-door service, which makes the day seamless and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances cultural discovery with convenience, giving you a taste of Latvia’s and Lithuania’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs. The stops are thoughtfully selected: the Hill of Crosses offers a profound spiritual experience, the Rundale Palace provides a regal glimpse into aristocratic life, and the optional Bauska Castle adds a dash of medieval history.

The professional driver, flexible schedule, and private service create a smooth, enjoyable day that maximizes your sightseeing time. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a structured, authentic experience that respects their time and curiosity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes. The sites involve some walking, especially around the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace, but overall it’s manageable for most travelers.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and don’t forget your passport or ID card for border crossing purposes.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, they are not included, so you will need to purchase tickets separately for each site you wish to visit.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary includes the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and possibly Bauska Castle, but specific customizations are not mentioned. The tour offers some flexibility with optional stops.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour host or driver offers services in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when booking.

This trip offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore some of the Baltic region’s most compelling sights without the fuss of independent travel. It’s ideal for those seeking a meaningful, hassle-free day of discovery.

You can check if your dates are available here: