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

Exploring Latvia and Lithuania in a Single Day: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace, and Hill of Crosses

This tour offers a whirlwind journey through some of the most captivating sites in Latvia and Lithuania, all packed into just over nine hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want to tick off multiple countries and iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The route covers Bauska Medieval Castle, Rundale Palace, and the Hill of Crosses—a mixture of history, architecture, and spiritual symbolism.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how well-organized it is—transportation is comfortable, and the driver/guide, Viesturs, gets high praise for his knowledge and friendliness. Plus, the tour’s flexibility at each stop, with free time to explore or relax, makes it feel less like a rushed group gig and more like a personalized adventure.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour relies on a minimum of three participants to run. If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, you’ll want to check availability ahead. Also, since meals are not included, bringing snacks or planning to eat at the palace restaurant maximizes your time for sightseeing.

All in all, this trip balances value and depth, offering a great way to see some of the most beautiful and meaningful sites in Latvia and Lithuania in a day. Let’s break down what makes each stop worthwhile, and what you should expect along the way.

Key Points / Takeaways

Comfortable Transportation: The entire trip takes place in a cozy, air-conditioned van, making the long drives between sites surprisingly pleasant.

Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Viesturs receive praise for their clear explanations, making history come alive without jargon or boredom.

Unique Sites: From the Hill of Crosses, known for its thousands of crosses and spiritual significance, to the regal Rundale Palace, each stop offers something truly distinctive.

Flexible Free Time: At each major site, you’ll have enough time for photos, wandering, or just soaking in the atmosphere—perfect for personalized experiences.

Border Crossing Experience: Traveling between Latvia and Lithuania, you’ll cross a border checkpoint, adding a real-life element to your journey.

Value for Money: Entrance fees for Rundale Palace and the castle tower are included, and the guided info sheets plus audio guides enhance your understanding without extra cost.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: St. Peter’s Church in Riga

The tour begins with a convenient pickup in front of St. Peter’s Church in Riga Old Town, a central and easily accessible spot. Once everyone is aboard, the van departs smoothly, and the journey begins. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in and get a quick overview of the day from your guide, Viesturs.

First Stop: Bauska Medieval Castle

After about 40 minutes on the road, you’ll arrive at Bauska Castle, a formidable fortress that dates back to the 15th century. Here, you’ll climb the recently renovated castle tower, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside—an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to imagine medieval life. The castle ruins themselves are fascinating, and although the tour doesn’t include the museum, you can explore the walls and grounds at your pace.

One reviewer, Alexandra, noted how well-organized the visit was, highlighting that “thanks for a great trip, had lots of fun with Jani… everything was very well organised.” If history and architecture interest you, Bauska provides a solid dose of both, plus the thrill of standing atop a tower that once defended the region.

Next, Rundale Palace and Gardens

After a 45-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Rundale Palace, often called the Latvian Versailles. Built in the 18th century, this opulent palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and you’ll have around two hours here. This is your chance to stroll through grand halls, admire intricate ceiling frescoes, and wander the beautifully maintained gardens.

What truly sets Rundale apart is its relative lack of queues—meaning you enjoy the beauty without crowded crowds. The tour provides audio guides for your phone, and free Wi-Fi at the site makes it easy to learn about each room’s history as you go.

A tip: You can choose to have lunch at the palace restaurant during your free time, or bring your own snacks to maximize your sightseeing and exploration. Many reviews, including that of Aisling, appreciated how the tour provided ample time for walking and enjoying the setting without rushing.

Crossing into Lithuania: Hill of Crosses

From Rundale, the tour proceeds to the Hill of Crosses, about an hour away. This site is truly unlike any other—literally thousands of crosses of all sizes and styles adorn this hill, symbolizing faith, hope, and resistance. It’s a powerful sight, especially when you consider that locals sell crosses on-site, and you’re encouraged to bring your own if you wish.

Viesturs provides an audio guide (usable on your phone with data), which enriches the experience by explaining the significance behind this extraordinary place. Many reviews, like Alexandra’s, describe it as “something extraordinary” and “well worth the drive.” If you’re into meaningful, spiritual sites or just want a memorable photo backdrop, the Hill of Crosses is a highlight.

Returning to Riga

After a final 15-minute drive, you’ll hop back into the van for the journey back. The entire day wraps up at St. Peter’s Church, where you started, around 6:30 pm—giving you time to reflect on a day packed with history and culture.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time, especially if you’re visiting Latvia and Lithuania for a limited period. It’s great for those interested in architecture, history, and authentic sites, like the Hill of Crosses, which offers a glimpse into local spiritual life.

The tour’s pace and included features make it suitable for independent-minded travelers who appreciate guided insights but also want free time to explore. The more curious and flexible you are, the more you’ll get out of this trip.

It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a group—reviews rave about the friendly, international atmosphere created by guides and fellow travelers. Remember, you’ll need your passport or EU ID for border crossings, so pack accordingly.

Price and Value

While the tour does not include lunch, the overall value is solid considering it covers transportation, entrance fees, and audio guides. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide like Viesturs, combined with well-chosen sites, makes this a cost-effective way to see multiple countries and iconic landmarks.

The tour is especially good for those who prefer not to organize logistics and want a smooth, guided day. It’s a flexible option that balances structured sightseeing with free time, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience of Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights. From the medieval walls of Bauska to the regal Rundale Palace, and the thought-provoking Hill of Crosses, you get a taste of history, architecture, and spirituality—all in one day.

Guided by a capable and personable driver like Viesturs, you’ll appreciate the insights and local tips that make the trip memorable. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking convenience, cultural depth, and authentic sights without the hassle of independent planning.

If you’re looking for a flexible, informative, and beautifully curated day trip that captures the heart of the Baltic region, this tour checks all those boxes. Just remember to bring your passport, some snacks, and an open mind ready to enjoy some of Europe’s most unique landscapes and stories.

FAQ

Do I need my passport or ID?
Yes, bringing your passport or EU ID is mandatory since you’ll cross borders between Latvia and Lithuania.

How long is the transfer between sites?
The drives vary from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on the location, making the overall trip comfortable and not rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance tickets for Rundale Palace and its gardens, as well as Bauska Castle’s tower.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Absolutely. You can bring snacks or plan to eat at the palace restaurant during your 2-hour free time.

What kind of guides are provided?
You’ll have printouts about each site and audio guides for your phone at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses to deepen your understanding.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy cultural sights and want a hassle-free day exploring the Baltic region.

What if I travel alone or in a small group?
The tour requires at least three participants to run, so check availability in advance.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll walk around each site at your own pace, with opportunities to explore the grounds and climb the castle tower.

Is there an option for a different start time?
Start times depend on availability; check current schedule when booking to find a suitable slot.

In all, this trip offers a compelling way to explore Latvia and Lithuania’s iconic sites in one satisfying day—rich in history, scenic beauty, and meaningful symbols—making it a worthwhile addition to your Baltic itinerary.