Group Day trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Full Review of the Group Day Trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Planning a day trip out of Riga that covers both Latvia and Lithuania? This guided tour offers a solid way to tick off some of the region’s most captivating sites without the hassle of driving yourself. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip a worthwhile experience—especially if you enjoy history, stunning architecture, and scenic countryside.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines iconic landmarks with culturally meaningful stops, all while providing a relaxed group setting. The other standout feature? The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and personable approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

That said, the main drawback is the long drive—about 90 minutes each way—which might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to travel time. The price is reasonable for what you get, especially since entrance fees are included, but it’s definitely an all-day commitment.

This trip suits travelers who want a structured, informative day outside Riga—perfect for those who prefer comfort and expert guidance over planning each stop independently. It’s also great for anyone interested in seeing Latvia’s and Lithuania’s highlights with a small, intimate group.

Key Points

• All-in-One Day: Visit two countries in just one trip, saving time and effort.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Flexible Exploration: Enjoy free time at sites to take your own photos and soak in the atmosphere.
• Informed Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Cultural & Scenic Mix: Combines historical castles, palaces, and the iconic Hill of Crosses.
• Value for Money: Includes entrance fees, making the price more justifiable.

What to Expect on the Tour

Bauska Castle: Starting with History and Views

The day begins with a visit to Bauska Castle, located in the heart of Bauska town. This medieval fortress is situated on a land strip between the rivers Msa and Mmele, offering some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. You can enjoy a quick outside look at the castle’s walls (free of charge), or opt for a 4-euro ticket to explore the castle museum at your own pace.

The reviews highlight this stop as a pleasant introduction, with one reviewer noting “fantastic views from outside” and appreciating the chance to peek inside the castle museum. The 30-minute stop is brief but enough to get a sense of Latvia’s medieval past.

Rundale Palace: The Showstopper

Next, you’re driven approximately 90 minutes from Riga to Rundale Palace, often called the “Little Versailles” for its French-inspired architecture and gardens. This beautiful Baroque structure is the tour’s crown jewel, praised for its well-preserved interiors filled with authentic furniture and furnishings.

You’ll have about two hours here, giving plenty of time to wander the palace rooms, explore the gardens, or enjoy the scenic countryside. The admission is included, and reviews frequently mention how stunning the palace is. One traveler raved, “Rundale Palace was the highlight—fascinating and filled with history,” pointing out how visiting out of season meant no crowds, making exploration more relaxed.

Kryziu Kalnas: The Hill of Crosses

After lunch or some time at Rundale, the tour heads into Lithuania to visit Kryziu Kalnas, the Hill of Crosses. A unique blend of faith and resilience, this site features thousands of crosses placed over centuries by visitors from Lithuania and beyond. It’s a powerful sight that symbolizes faith, hope, and sacrifice.

The 40-minute stop offers ample opportunity to walk around, take photos, and even purchase a small cross from vendors. Several reviews mention how awe-inspiring and “amazing” the hill is, emphasizing its importance as a spiritual symbol and a testament to local religious devotion.

Logistics and Comfort

Travel is in a small, air-conditioned van, which travelers find more personal and comfortable than large buses. The tour begins at 9:00am from Riga and returns around the same time, making it a full, well-paced day. The maximum group size is limited to eight travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a less crowded experience.

Food & Additional Considerations

The tour doesn’t include lunch, but you’re given the option to purchase a meal starting at 6 euros—either at the palace restaurant or nearby cafes. Many reviews mention the delicious potato pancakes and other local foods enjoyed during or after the tour.

A noteworthy point from some travelers is the extra fee of 70 euros for fuel surcharge, payable in cash. This isn’t included in the original price, so it’s worth being aware of this potential additional expense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history buffs and culture enthusiasts who want to see a variety of Latvia and Lithuania’s most famous landmarks without the hassle of planning individual transport. The small group size fosters intimacy and personalized attention, which travelers love, especially when guides share personal stories or cultural insights.

It’s also perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives and want to combine sightseeing with relaxing countryside views. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but prefer a guided experience, you’ll find the pace just right—reviews note the guides are knowledgeable and personable.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or flexible day with less travel time, this might feel a bit long, particularly the return trip. It’s also worth noting the fuel surcharge, which some found frustrating if not disclosed upfront.

The Value of the Experience

For $127.72, you’re getting a whole day of guided exploration, including entrance fees at Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, plus transport and commentary. This price compares favorably to the cost of separate entry tickets and transportation if you were to do it on your own.

What adds value is the expert guidance and the convenience of a carefully curated itinerary. Plus, the sites themselves are memorable, and many reviews mention how the guides make history come alive with stories and interesting facts.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to get outside Riga and experience some of Latvia and Lithuania’s most iconic sites, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s well-organized, offers a good mix of history, culture, and scenery, and comes with enthusiastic reviews praising the guides and the sites.

It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer small groups, detailed commentary, and a structured day of sightseeing without the stress of self-driving or planning every detail. The long drive might be a downside for some but is balanced by the beautiful landscapes and the enriching stops along the way.

All in all, this tour offers a thoughtful way to deepen your understanding of the Baltic region’s heritage, making it a worthwhile addition to your Latvian trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour’s pace and sites are generally accessible. Keep in mind the long drive and some walking involved; it may be best suited for older children or teenagers interested in history and culture.

What language is the guide speaking?
The driver/guide speaks in several languages, and live commentary is provided, ensuring you get a comprehensive experience regardless of your language preference.

How long is the total travel time?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with roughly 90 minutes of driving each way and time spent at each site, so be prepared for a full day.

Does the price include entrance fees?
Yes, the tour includes entrance tickets for Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle. The Hill of Crosses and Bauska Castle museum have nominal fees or free access.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash for optional purchases or extra fees (like at Bauska Castle), and a camera for the scenic views.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s an option to buy a meal for around 6 euros, with a restaurant reservation possible at the palace.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, a fuel surcharge of 70 euros might be added, payable in cash. This fee isn’t included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and you’ll receive a full refund if you cancel in time.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved at each site and the long drive; it’s best to assess personal mobility needs beforehand.

This guided day trip is a well-rounded way to see Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights with comfort, insight, and some flexible free time. If you’re eager to explore beyond Riga and enjoy the scenery and history of the Baltic states, it’s definitely worth considering.