Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundle Palace, & Bauska Castle Tour

Travelers seeking a rich, well-rounded day trip from Riga will find this tour to be a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most captivating sites. This full-day adventure takes you beyond the city, offering a taste of Latvia’s grandeur and Lithuania’s spiritual symbolism—all in just 8 hours. What makes this experience stand out? We love the expertly guided storytelling, the stunning visuals at each stop, and the seamless, comfortable transfer that keeps things flowing smoothly.

One possible consideration? The day’s pace can feel rushed if you’re looking for a deeply leisurely experience, especially at the Hill of Crosses, which can be more moving than expected. Still, the tour strikes a good balance for those with a curiosity about Baltic history, architecture, and culture — especially if you prefer an organized, guided outing that covers multiple highlights efficiently.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate historical sites, beautiful architecture, and authentic local stories. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive snapshot of Latvia and Lithuania in one day without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. Now, let’s explore what makes this trip truly worthwhile.

Good To Know

• Two countries in one day provides a quick but meaningful cross-border experience
• Engaging guides share stories and insights not found in guidebooks
• Rundale Palace’s interiors and gardens showcase Baroque elegance
• Bauska Castle’s tower offers panoramic views of the landscape
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi makes the whole day enjoyable
• Flexible itinerary with enough time to explore each site thoroughly

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour, operated by Latvia Guide Tours, is designed for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in a manageable day. Starting at Riga Cathedral, you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll venture into two neighboring countries—Latvia and Lithuania—without the need to worry about border crossings or driving.

The first major stop, the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, is a site that’s hard to forget. The atmosphere here is quietly profound—an ocean of crosses, some small and simple, others towering and ornate, all quietly whispering stories of faith, hope, and resilience. Your guide will help you understand the origins and significance of this unique place, which is often compared to Jerusalem’s Western Wall for its sense of spiritual devotion. Reviewers mention the beautiful and moving atmosphere, with one noting that they appreciated the photo opportunities at the border crossing and the free time to walk around.

Next, the journey continues to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s own baroque jewel. The guided tour here is led by a guide dressed in period costume, adding a fun, theatrical touch that transports visitors to the 17th century. You’ll get a detailed look at both the opulent interiors—think ornate ceilings, gilded details, and elegant furniture—and the expansive gardens. Visitors have praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, with one mentioning how the palace’s beauty made it a highlight, especially with the included ticket that ensured no queues.

Finally, you’ll visit Bauska Castle, where the highlight is climbing the recently renovated tower. The views from the top reveal the rolling landscapes of Latvia and Lithuania, making it a perfect photo stop. The castle’s ruins and surrounding grounds offer a glimpse into medieval life, and many reviews reinforce how this stop provided a satisfying mix of history and scenic beauty.

Throughout the day, the transportation is smooth and well-organized, with WiFi on board allowing you to share your trip or look up interesting facts in real time. The pace is designed to give you enough time at each site—reviewers consistently mention feeling that they had ample opportunity to explore without feeling rushed.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Stop

Riga Cathedral: The Meeting Point

Starting at the Riga Cathedral, the tour sets a historic tone. It’s a convenient, iconic meeting spot where your guide introduces the day’s itinerary. Expect to set out with a group of like-minded travelers, eager for a day of discovery.

Cross the Border into Lithuania

The drive takes around two hours, during which you’ll appreciate the comfort of the vehicle and the commentary from your guide, who often shares little tidbits about the countryside and history. Travelers have noted that the border crossing is straightforward, and some take a quick opportunity for photos at the border—an interesting visual of two nations’ landscapes and flags.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Hill of Crosses

The highlight of the day—this site is extraordinary. It’s a place where faith and hope are visibly expressed through thousands of crosses. Visitors often describe it as serene and contemplative, with some saying it felt more like a spiritual experience than a sightseeing stop. The guide will give you context about its origins, which date back decades, evolving into a symbol of Lithuanian resilience. Expect to spend around an hour here, with free time to walk, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. Many reviewers mention that this stop was more moving than they anticipated, especially if you visit with an open mind.

Rundale Palace

Back in Latvia, Rundale Palace is a feast for the eyes. The guided tour offers insight into the architecture and history, with the costumed guide adding a charming, immersive element. The interiors, with their gilded details and painted ceilings, stand as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Baroque era. The sprawling gardens allow for relaxed strolling, and many find the experience both beautiful and educational. Lunch options are available on-site, often praised for being a good way to experience local cuisine without leaving the grounds.

Bauska Castle

The last stop is Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress perched above the merging rivers of Lithuania and Latvia. The highlight is climbing the castle’s tower, which has been recently renovated, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for photos and imagining life in medieval times. The castle grounds are also a pleasant walk, with some reviewers noting the history and scenery combined make for a satisfying end to the day.

Return to Riga

After a brief rest in the van, you’ll head back with plenty of time to reflect on the day, exchange photos, or ask your guide additional questions about the region. Many comments highlight the comfortable vehicle, friendly driver, and informative narration as part of the overall positive experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Given the included entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, plus the convenience of transportation, this tour offers significant value compared to organizing your own day trip. The expert guides ensure you gain more than just surface-level knowledge, enriching each stop with stories and context you’d probably miss alone.

The 8-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy each site without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Plus, the WiFi on board keeps you connected and entertained during the drive, which many find makes the long journey more enjoyable.

Considering the reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ storytelling, the sites’ beauty, and the well-chosen itinerary are what make this trip stand out. It’s perfect if you want to see multiple sites in a day, learn about the local culture and history, and experience the natural and architectural beauty of the Baltic region.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring historical sites, especially those interested in architecture, medieval history, or spiritual symbolism. It suits visitors who value guided storytelling and well-organized logistics, making it a stress-free way to see notable landmarks.

It’s also great for those on a tight schedule who want to see both Latvia and Lithuania in a single day. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a solo adventurer keen on culture, you’ll find this tour offers a satisfying mix of education, scenery, and cultural insight.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my passport or ID? Yes, because the tour crosses international borders, you’ll need a valid passport or ID card.

What is included in the price? The tour price covers transportation, a driver-guide, WiFi on board, and entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle.

Are meals included? No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour provides excellent suggestions for lunch at or near Rundale Palace.

How long are the stops? The main stops vary from about 25 minutes at Bauska Castle to around 2 hours at the Hill of Crosses, allowing enough time to explore and take photos.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? It’s generally suitable for most people, but those over 95 might find it less comfortable due to the full-day schedule and walking involved.

What is the guide’s style? Reviewers highlight guides like Erlen, who are engaging storytellers with a friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the experience both fun and informative.

Can I customize my experience? The itinerary is fixed, but ample free time at each site allows for personal exploration and photo-taking.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Riga offers a well-rounded, insightful look into the Baltic region’s landscape, history, and architecture. The combination of spiritual symbolism at the Hill of Crosses, Baroque elegance at Rundale Palace, and medieval charm at Bauska Castle makes it a compelling choice for anyone eager to broaden their understanding of Latvia and Lithuania.

For travelers who enjoy guided storytelling, beautiful scenery, and historical sites, this trip is an excellent value. The experienced guides, comfortable transport, and efficient routing ensure you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the Baltic’s cultural tapestry—all in one manageable day.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone who loves discovering new corners of Europe, this tour will give you a meaningful, picture-worthy day out. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your passport, and prepare to be moved by the quiet strength of these historic places.

You can check if your dates are available here: