Taking a look at this day trip from Riga, it’s clear why it scores such a high rating — 4.9 out of 5 from 30 reviews. This tour promises an 8-hour journey through some of the Baltic region’s most captivating sites: the elegant Rundale Palace, the medieval Bauska Castle, and the spiritually charged Hill of Crosses. What makes this experience stand out? Two key features are the effortless, comfortable transportation (a big plus when you’re packing multiple stops into one day) and the knowledgeable guides, who really seem to know how to keep the atmosphere friendly and engaging.
That said, it’s worth considering that this is a group tour with a minimum of five participants — if your crew is smaller, there might be a chance of cancellation and a full refund. Also, it’s a fairly full day, so if you’re after deep dives into each site or have limited mobility, make sure to plan accordingly. But overall, I think the balance of quality, value, and authenticity makes this trip a solid choice.
One thing I particularly appreciate is how well this tour combines historical insight with scenic beauty. From the gorgeous gardens of Rundale Palace to the evocative crosses at the Hill of Crosses, you’re getting a layered experience. Plus, the reviews highlight how well-organized and easy to follow the day is, thanks to printout sheets with information and an experienced driver — all in a compact, manageable package.
Key points / Takeaways
- Comfortable transportation makes the long drives between sites relaxed and stress-free.
- Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s “Little Versailles,” offers stunning architecture and French-style gardens without long lines.
- Bauska Castle provides medieval fortress ruins and panoramic views from the tower that are worth climbing for.
- The Hill of Crosses is a deeply moving site filled with thousands of crosses, symbolizing resilience and faith.
- Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and informative.
- The timing is well-structured: enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed.
- The value includes entrance fees, a professional driver, and printed info sheets, making it a hassle-free experience.
- If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long days, this might be a bit tight — but for most, it’s an efficient way to see three incredible sites in one go.
Exploring the Landmarks: A Closer Look
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rundale Municipality.
Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles
Your first stop is the majestic Rundale Palace, built in the 18th century for the Duke of Courland. It’s often called Latvia’s Versailles thanks to its French-inspired architecture, ornate interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
What I love about this part of the tour is how you get no queues — you’re free to wander and soak in the lavish Golden Hall, White Hall, and the Rose Garden at your own pace. The guides are quite passionate about the palace’s history and architecture, making it easier to appreciate its grandeur beyond just looking at pretty rooms.
One review mentioned how they were impressed with the “heating system” — a reminder that these palaces, though centuries old, often feature surprisingly modern comforts. It’s also a good chance to take photos and enjoy some quiet moments in this stunning setting.
Bauska Castle: Medieval Fortress with a View
Next, you visit Bauska Castle, perched on a hill where the Msa and Mēmele rivers meet. The site combines ruins of a 15th-century fortress with a Renaissance wing, offering a vivid picture of medieval and Renaissance life.
The highlight? Climbing up to the sightseeing tower, which offers a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. One reviewer noted that the guided tour here was brief but informative, giving enough context to appreciate what you’re looking at.
Be prepared for some walking and climbing, but the effort is worth it for the scenery and the sense of stepping back into history. The castle’s location and views make it a memorable stop, especially if you enjoy photography or simply love medieval architecture.
The Hill of Crosses: A Place of Faith and Resilience
The final stop, the Hill of Crosses, is a deeply emotional site. It’s covered with thousands of crosses of all sizes and styles, placed by pilgrims over decades as symbols of faith, hope, and resistance.
What I love about this place is the palpable atmosphere — it’s almost like wandering through a living memory of perseverance. Many visitors find it quite moving, and reviews confirm that it’s a powerful experience. You’ll spend around 40 minutes wandering, taking photos, and contemplating the significance of the crosses.
The site’s history reflects the resilience of the Lithuanian people during times of oppression, making it more than just a tourist attraction — it’s a place of reflection and hope.
Logistics, Value, and Practical Tips
Timing and Duration
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a carefully paced itinerary: roughly 2 hours at Rundale Palace, an hour at Bauska Castle, and another hour at the Hill of Crosses. The schedule is flexible enough to avoid feeling rushed, which is important when you’re trying to enjoy each site.
Transportation and Comfort
The vehicle — an Opel Vivaro or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter — is described as comfy and air-conditioned, ideal for the long drives. Having a professional driver means you can relax and take in the scenery without worry, especially since the roads in this region are quite scenic.
Cost and Inclusions
The price covers entrance fees for Rundale Palace (including the Rose Garden) and Bauska Castle, as well as printed sheets with site info. No hidden costs here, which reviewers appreciate. You’ll need to handle your own lunch and drinks, but the tour’s price and included features make it a good value for those interested in a comprehensive, hassle-free day.
Who It’s Best For
This trip suits travelers eager to see a broad slice of Baltic history and culture without spending days on multiple trips. It’s especially good for those who want a comfortable, guided experience with a knowledgeable guide — reviews praise “Tom” for his friendly, informative approach. Note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll want comfortable shoes for walking around the castles and gardens.
Final Thoughts
This day trip from Riga offers a well-rounded taste of Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights — from regal architecture to medieval ruins and a deeply meaningful pilgrimage site. The small group size, skilled guides, and smooth logistics make it easy for travelers to enjoy the experience without stress.
If you’re looking for a day that balances sightseeing, history, and spiritual reflection, this tour delivers. It’s particularly recommended for those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and entries independently.
While long, the day is thoughtfully curated, so you arrive back in Riga with plenty of stories and photos. For the price, you get a genuine look at some of the Baltic’s most meaningful landmarks with expert guidance, making this a worthwhile addition to your Baltic adventure.
FAQ
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a modern, comfortable vehicle, with air conditioning, making the long drives between sites pleasant.
How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Rundale Palace, 1 hour at Bauska Castle, and 1 hour at the Hill of Crosses, enough to explore without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Entrance fees for Rundale Palace (including the Rose Garden), Bauska Castle tower, and printed sheets with information are included. Lunch and drinks are not.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most will find it enjoyable, it’s not suited for wheelchair users, and walking/climbing is involved at the castle sites.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and water. The sites are outdoors, so dress accordingly.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.
Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, and reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness.
What if I don’t speak much English?
Some reviews mention non-English speakers participating and still having a good experience due to clear communication and well-organized info sheets.
This trip provides a balanced mix of history, architecture, and cultural reflection, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package. Perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful day exploring the Baltic’s treasures without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.