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

If you’re looking to explore some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sights in one day, this tour from Riga offers a well-rounded experience. It hits three very different landmarks—each with its own story, style, and atmosphere—and manages to do so comfortably and efficiently.

What we love about this trip is how seamless the experience is—from the smooth transportation to the knowledgeable guides. Plus, the fact that there are no long queues at Rundale Palace means you can truly soak in the beauty without the crowds. We also appreciate the balance of history, architecture, and spiritual significance packed into one day. However, keep in mind that it’s a fairly full schedule, so if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or wants to linger longer at each site, you might find this a bit rushed.

This tour would suit history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about the cultural resilience of the region. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, informative day with comfortable transport, friendly guides, and a chance to see three top sights without the hassle of planning each stop.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with a professional driver makes the day effortless
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of each site
• No queues at Rundale Palace allow for a relaxed exploration of the stunning interiors and gardens
• Diverse highlights: from regal palaces and medieval castles to a deeply spiritual site
• Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Version of Versailles

The tour kicks off at Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s “Little Versailles”. Built for the Duke of Courland in the 18th century, this baroque masterpiece showcases lavish interiors and meticulously designed French gardens. You get about two hours here, which is enough to really appreciate the grandeur without feeling rushed.

The highlight for many is the Golden Hall and White Hall, where aristocratic gatherings once took place. The interiors are beautifully restored, with ornate woodwork, gilded mirrors, and grand chandeliers. The gardens, especially the Rose Garden, are a treat—full of blooming roses and perfect for a leisurely stroll.

According to reviews, the lack of queues is a bonus—“We loved the way we could explore without waiting in line,” said one visitor. The guided audio sheets provided add context to the history and design, making the visit both educational and visually stunning.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Fortress with a View

Next, you’ll visit Bauska Castle, perched on a hill where the Msa and Mmele rivers meet. This spot offers a fantastic mix of history and scenery. The castle itself is in ruins, but its tower, walls, and Renaissance wing give a vivid picture of medieval life.

You’ll spend about an hour here, climbing the tower for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape—a favorite among visitors. The castle played a vital role as a defensive site, and guides often share stories about its strategic importance over the centuries.

One reviewer noted, “Climbing the tower at Bauska gave us a panoramic view of the area that’s worth every step,” and it’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to understand history is from above.

The Hill of Crosses: A Place of Deep Spirit

The last stop takes you into Lithuania, to the Hill of Crosses, a profoundly moving site. Here, thousands of crosses of all sizes have been placed over the years by pilgrims as symbols of faith, hope, and resilience. It’s a place charged with emotion, and walking among the crosses leaves many visitors feeling inspired.

Expect to spend around 40 minutes wandering through and absorbing the atmosphere. The reviews emphasize the powerful sense of faith and hope—“It’s not just a tourist spot, it’s a memorial of resilience,” one visitor shared.

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Transportation & Logistics

The entire day is spent in comfortable, air-conditioned vans, with a professional driver ensuring smooth travel between sites. The tour covers roughly 110 minutes traveling between locations, which helps keep the day flowing without long, tedious drives. The transportation quality is praised in reviews, with one guest mentioning “the ride was very comfortable, and our guide was friendly and knowledgeable.”

The itinerary is well-organized, balancing sightseeing with enough free time for photos and reflection. The guided sheets provided at Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle offer additional insights, making the experience more engaging and informative.

The Value and Experience

The price point for this day trip includes entrance fees—covering the big circle at Rundale Palace and the tower at Bauska Castle—plus the comfort of small-group travel. It’s a good deal when you consider the logistics and expert guidance included. The small group limit of eight participants ensures a more intimate experience, which many reviewers have appreciated.

While lunch isn’t included, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to buy food at each site or bring snacks along. Drinks aren’t included, so bring water to stay refreshed through the day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included are the entrance fees and printed informational sheets, which add value by providing context. The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand—adding peace of mind for your planning.

Who Is This Tour For?

It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. History enthusiasts, architecture fans, or those with a spiritual side will find plenty to love. If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of Latvia and Lithuania in one go, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This trip from Riga offers a wonderful combination of royal elegance, medieval history, and spiritual reflection. With the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable guides, travelers gain a deeper understanding of each site’s significance—beyond just sightseeing. The comfortable transport and small group size make it feel personalized and relaxed, rather than rushed or crowded.

While the schedule is packed, it allows you to cover a lot of ground—making it ideal for those eager to see the highlights in one day. The inclusion of free time at Rundale Palace and the opportunity to climb the Bauska Tower add a special touch for those who love to explore at their own pace.

This tour provides excellent value for those interested in Latvia and Lithuania’s culture, history, and architecture. It’s especially suited to curious travelers who want a mix of grandeur, medieval grit, and spiritual depth—all in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s great for most, it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, as climbing towers and walking through ruins are involved.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, and some water to stay hydrated.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food at the sites or bring your own.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, making it more personal and engaging.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an English-speaking guide?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, with guides providing detailed commentary.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the fee covers entrance to Rundale Palace’s Big Circle and Rose Garden, plus the tower at Bauska Castle.

How comfortable is the transportation?
The vans are described as comfy, with a professional driver ensuring a smooth ride.

Is this tour suitable if I don’t speak Latvian or Lithuanian?
Absolutely. The tour is in English, and guides are skilled at making sure everyone understands and enjoys the experience.

This trip from Riga offers a well-paced, insightful, and visually stunning day trip through some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sites. Whether you’re into grand palaces, medieval castles, or places of spiritual significance, this tour ticks all the boxes.

You can check if your dates are available here: