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

If you’re looking for a day trip that perfectly balances history, faith, and stunning architecture, this private tour from Riga might just be what you need. Offering a carefully curated journey through some of Lithuania’s most iconic sites, it promises an enriching experience that combines scenic drives, heartfelt spiritual sites, and regal palaces. The tour is tailored for those who love a mix of cultural depth and natural beauty, all delivered at a comfortable pace.

What I particularly like about this experience is the flexibility offered by the guides—reviews praise guides like Normunds and Juri for their knowledge and friendly approach. Plus, the stops themselves are thoughtfully chosen: the Hill of Crosses is a moving testament to faith and devotion, while Rundale Palace gives a taste of Baroque splendor, and Bauska Castle transports you back to medieval times. A potential drawback? Since the entry tickets to the castles are not included, you’ll want to budget for those separately. Still, many find this arrangement allows for personalized visits at their own pace.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Sites: Visit three standout locations—faith, grandeur, and medieval history—all in one day.
• Guides: Guides like Normunds and Juri are highly praised for their knowledge, flexibility, and friendly manner.
• Flexible Itinerary: You can choose to skip or extend time at certain sites, with suggestions for adding local stops like Pakruojis Manor.
• Valuable Experience: At around 7 hours, the tour offers excellent value, especially for the private group experience.
• Not Included Tickets: Be prepared to purchase entry tickets separately for the castles, as these are not included.
• Comfortable Transport: Traveling by van ensures a relaxed pace with scenic views on the way.

If you’re staying in Riga and eager to see more of the Baltics’ captivating sites, this private tour offers a well-rounded look into Lithuania’s spiritual, royal, and medieval heritage. The journey lasts roughly 7 hours, making it a full but comfortable day, especially when you factor in the time spent exploring each site and enjoying the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at the Hill of Crosses: A Place of Deep Faith

Your adventure kicks off with the Hill of Crosses — a place that’s difficult to describe without experiencing it firsthand. Countless crosses of all sizes and designs cover the landscape, each representing prayers, wishes, or acts of devotion. As many reviews mention, standing among so many crosses, you can’t help but feel the raw emotion and spirituality that this site embodies. Guides like Nor­munds are commended for their stories and the way they help visitors grasp the significance of the site—a testament to resilience and faith.

The scenic drive here is also noteworthy. Approaching the site, the landscape opens up with views that are part rural charm, part pilgrimage site. You’ll have roughly an hour to walk around, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors note that the site is a must-see, with one reviewer emphasizing it as “something very much worth seeing.”

Lunch and Optional Sightseeing

You’ll have time to enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, either before or after touring Rundale Palace—flexibility that many find helpful. If you choose to skip the meal, there’s still plenty of time to add a visit to Bauska Castle on your return journey. The guides are accommodating and happy to suggest additional stops, such as the Pakruojis Manor or a flower festival, making the day feel personalized.

Rundale Palace: A Baroque Treasure

Next, the tour heads to Rundale Palace, often called the “Baroque jewel of the Baltics.” Stepping inside, I love the way you’re transported into a world of gilded carvings, ornate stuccoes, and frescoed ceilings. Walking through the grand halls, it’s easy to imagine aristocrats preparing for ballrooms and courtly ceremonies.

The gardens surrounding the palace are equally impressive, with vibrant blooms and sculptures creating a peaceful escape. Reviewers like Elizabeth rave about the “exquisite frescoes” and the “regal atmosphere,” which makes the visit feel genuinely special. The self-guided tour options give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and many visitors say that the views from the gardens are worth lingering over.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Mystique

As the day progresses, you’ll visit Bauska Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Walking through its towers and courtyards, you can almost hear the echoes of knights and noblemen. The guided tour sheds light on the castle’s strategic importance and its role in medieval Lithuania.

What makes Bauska especially appealing is the surrounding park, where exotic plants and trees add a different layer of tranquility to the historical site. Visitors often mention how the castle’s walls and scenic views from the battlements** help bring history alive**. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the stories of feudal life and the enduring legacy of medieval architecture.

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Returning to Riga with a Lasting Impression

After an hour exploring Bauska, you’ll hop back into the van for the journey home. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace as key to making this a memorable trip. The private group format ensures that you can customize the experience and ask plenty of questions along the way.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing, combining faith, history, and architecture. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personalized service, as the private group setting allows for flexible timing and tailored suggestions. If you’re curious about Lithuanian culture, enjoy impressive buildings, or simply want to see some of the most iconic sites outside of Riga, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, keep in mind that entry tickets to the castles are not included, so budget for those separately. Also, if your time in Riga is limited, this tour offers a rundown without the need to plan multiple separate visits.

For whom is this best?

• Those interested in faith, history, and architecture
• Travelers seeking a comfortable, private experience
• Visitors eager to see iconic Baltic landmarks in one day
• People who enjoy guided narration and flexible itineraries

The tour lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and some free exploration. The van transport ensures a smooth ride through scenic Lithuanian countryside, and the private group format keeps things intimate and flexible. Starting times are available after checking availability, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

The guides, like Nor­munds and Juri, are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach, which can significantly enhance the experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of transportation logistics.

Remember, the entry tickets to the castles are not included, so plan ahead—many visitors find that this small additional cost is well worth the access to these incredible sites.

Are entry tickets to the castles included?
No, the entry tickets are not included in the tour price. You’ll need to purchase those separately, which allows you to decide how much time to spend inside each site.

How long is the tour exactly?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at each location.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the van transportation is comfortable, but it’s good to check specific needs with the tour provider beforehand.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides like Normunds and Juri are known for their flexibility and will accommodate your interests, including optional visits or additional stops like Pakruojis Manor.

What about lunch?
A local restaurant lunch is included in the schedule, but you can opt out if you prefer more time at the sites. The guides can suggest good local spots.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is tailored for private groups, making it more personal and flexible than a standard coach tour.

How much should I budget for the castles’ entry tickets?
Since the tickets aren’t included, you might want to check current prices in advance—many visitors find that it’s a worthwhile expense for access to these iconic sites.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is available in English and Russian, ensuring clear communication and a richer understanding of the sites.

For those craving a day away from Riga that combines faith, regal splendor, and medieval charm, this tour offers a well-balanced itinerary with top guides and stunning sites. It’s a perfect choice if you value personalized service and want to see the most iconic Lithuanian landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail. The flexibility, friendly guides, and carefully curated stops help make this a memorable way to experience the Baltics’ diverse cultural tapestry.

If you’re interested in combining faith and history with a touch of luxury, this trip is a smart investment in a memorable, enriching adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply curious about Lithuania’s spiritual landmarks, this tour provides a comprehensive and authentic glimpse into the region’s soul.

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