From Vilnius: Hill of Crosses & Rundale Palace to Riga

Exploring Lithuania and Latvia in One Day: A Detailed Look at the Vilnius to Riga Tour

Planning a trip that includes both Lithuania and Latvia can be tricky — there’s so much to see and do, and finding the right balance of time and comfort isn’t always easy. That’s why I found this private tour from Vilnius to Riga quite intriguing. It offers a thoughtful way to experience two countries in one day, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. With a visit to the famous Hill of Crosses and the beautiful Rundale Palace, this day trip promises a mix of spiritual symbolism and baroque grandeur.

What instantly drew us in are two standout features: the flexibility of a private transfer (meaning you can enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience) and the opportunity to see two very distinct Lithuanian and Latvian sights. Also, the local guide at Rundale Palace is a real bonus — having someone share insights about the palace’s history adds depth to the visit. The potential downside? The tour is quite packed, with around eight hours of travel and sightseeing, so if you prefer slow, unhurried days or dislike long drives, this might not be your best fit.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, or travelers with limited time who want a taste of the Baltic region’s highlights. It’s less suited for those who prefer more leisurely exploration or traveling with very young children, given the packed schedule and walking involved. Still, for those looking to maximize a short trip, it’s a well-organized way to see some iconic sights.

Key Points

• Private group ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• The Hill of Crosses offers a unique, spiritually charged experience.
• Rundale Palace is a stunning baroque monument, with a guided tour that enriches the visit.
• The tour is about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Cost-wise, $922 per group (up to 2 people) reflects a private, curated experience.
• The driver handles all logistics, so you can relax and focus on sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Vilnius to the Hill of Crosses

When you hop into the private car, your day kicks off with a comfortable transfer from your Vilnius hotel. Since this is a private experience, the driver is at your disposal for the entire day, which is a real advantage. The first stop, the Hill of Crosses, is about a two-hour drive from Vilnius — giving you plenty of time to settle in and chat with your guide or driver if you wish.

Once you arrive at the Hill of Crosses, you’re greeted by a landscape of thousands of crosses, some small and simple, others large and ornate. This site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not just a tourist attraction but a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and Lithuanian identity. You’ll have around 45 minutes to walk freely, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere, snap some photos, and get a feel for the spiritual energy of the place.

What’s special here? The sheer number of crosses is staggering, and the sense of history and emotion is palpable. Visitors have said that it’s a place you want to experience in silence, absorbing the significance of the site. While the site can get busy, the limited time frame helps keep the visit manageable and focused.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Baroque Treasure

After exploring the Hill of Crosses, your driver takes you onward to Rundale Palace, roughly an hour away. This is Latvia’s answer to the grand European palaces, and it’s a sight that shouldn’t be missed. As you arrive, the palace’s grand façade immediately captures your attention, with its symmetrical design and ornate details.

Your guide at Rundale will take you through the interior rooms, which were once the summer residence of the Duke of Courland. The interiors are beautifully decorated, showcasing Latvian craftsmanship and the opulence of the baroque period. Expect to see stunning frescoes, intricate woodwork, and elegant furnishings, all of which convey a sense of luxury and history.

Many reviews mention that the guided tour adds real value — the guide explains the stories behind the rooms and the history of the dukes who once lived here. It’s also a chance to learn about how the palace was restored, which adds a layer of appreciation for preservation efforts.

What you’ll love: The palace’s architecture and interior details are truly impressive, and the guide’s insights can bring the history to life. Keep in mind, the entire visit lasts about an hour, so it’s a quick but enriching peek into Latvian aristocratic life.

From Rundale to Riga: Wrapping Up the Day

Once your Rundale Palace visit concludes, your driver will take you directly to your Riga hotel. The drive is approximately two hours, giving you time to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Depending on your arrival time in Riga, you might have a chance to do some light exploring or settle into your accommodations.

This seamless transfer is one of the perks of the tour — it takes the stress out of logistics, letting you focus on the sights and enjoying your day. Carefully curated as a private experience, it’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded tours or multiple stops with strangers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a private car, the visit to the Hill of Crosses, and the guided tour of Rundale Palace. All entrance fees are included, so no surprises there. However, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring some water and perhaps a snack, especially given the long day.

A key point to consider is the cost of $922 for a group of up to two people. While this might seem steep at first glance, it covers the private nature of the experience, the convenience, and the guided tours. If you’re traveling with a partner or want a personalized day, it can be a worthwhile investment.

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What We Think: The Practical Side

The timing and pacing are important to keep in mind. An 8-hour day is quite full, and while it’s manageable, it requires a bit of energy and patience. The long drives between sites mean you’ll want to be comfortable with sitting for extended periods, and the schedule might feel tight if you prefer more leisure at each stop.

From the reviews, we see that travelers appreciate the professionalism of the driver and guide, as well as the flexibility of the private tour. Some note that the guide at Rundale is very knowledgeable, making the visit more meaningful. Others mention that the Hill of Crosses can be visited independently, which gives you some freedom to explore at your own pace.

The price point is justified if you value comfort, privacy, and expert guidance — especially for couples or small groups. For solo travelers or larger groups, the per-person cost might be higher than joining a larger tour, but the convenience and tailored experience often compensate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip suits travelers who want to see two essential Baltic sights without the hassle of arranging transport or multiple tickets. It’s perfect for history lovers, those interested in architecture, or anyone wanting a meaningful cultural experience in a short time.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, unstructured day or has trouble with long drives, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, those with very young children or mobility issues should consider the walking involved at both sites.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private Vilnius to Riga tour balances convenience, cultural richness, and personal attention. It offers a meaningful way to connect with Baltic history and architecture, from the spiritual symbolism of the Hill of Crosses to the regal elegance of Rundale Palace.

While it’s a full day, many travelers find that the quality of the experience and the ease of private transport make it worth the price. It’s especially well-suited for couples, history enthusiasts, or those eager to pack their itinerary with memorable sights without the stress of planning every detail.

For anyone looking to combine travel with storytelling and want a day that covers some of the most iconic sights in Lithuania and Latvia, this tour could be just the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who dislike long drives?
The tour involves about four hours of driving overall, so if you’re uncomfortable with long journeys, it might be tiring. However, the private car offers comfort and space to relax.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to discuss timing with your driver or guide, but the itinerary is designed to fit within about 8 hours, including travel.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to have a meal in Riga or along the way if desired.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What language does the guide speak?
The tour offers guides in English and German, so you can choose based on your preference.

Is this a family-friendly experience?
While suitable for most adults, it might be less ideal for very young children due to the walking and the packed schedule.

How much time do I have at the Hill of Crosses?
You’ll have about 45 minutes to explore independently, which is enough for a good walk and photos.

What’s the highlight of Rundale Palace?
The interiors, with their frescoes and historical furnishings, along with the guided commentary, make the visit both beautiful and informative.

How does the price compare to other options?
The private nature and included guided tours justify the cost for those seeking a personalized experience. Cheaper options often involve group tours with less flexibility or longer itineraries.

Looking to explore the Baltics with a touch of comfort and insight? This tour from Vilnius to Riga offers a great way to do just that.

You can check availability for your dates here: