Vilnius to Riga Day Trip: The Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle

Thinking about crossing from Lithuania into Latvia and wondering what sights are worth your time? This Vilnius to Riga day trip offers a convenient way to see some of the region’s most fascinating spots without the hassle of planning multiple itineraries. It’s a full-day adventure that packs in three standout attractions—the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle—all while providing transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines scenic drives with well-timed stops that let you explore each site at a relaxed pace. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it super convenient for travelers staying in central Vilnius and Riga. On the flip side, the price might seem on the higher side for some—especially considering the extra costs for entry tickets to Rundale Palace. Still, for the quality of the guide, the flexibility, and the chance to see three impressive attractions, it can be a worthwhile splurge.

This tour is ideal if you’re someone who appreciates a mix of history, architecture, and meaningful sights but doesn’t want to spend days on the road. It’s particularly suited for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of both Lithuanian and Latvian highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off saves you time and hassle.
• Rich in highlights: The Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle each offer unique experiences.
• Guided insights: Live commentary from your driver-guide enhances understanding of each site.
• Flexible pacing: Ample time at each stop means you won’t feel rushed.
• Cost considerations: The price includes some entries but not all, so budget accordingly.
• Travelers’ favorite: The Hill of Crosses often leaves a profound impression, while Rundale Palace offers stunning architecture akin to Versailles.

A Deep Dive into the Tour’s Highlights

Starting in Vilnius and the Journey to Siauliai

Your day begins with a pickup from your centrally located hotel in Vilnius. The driver-guide, often praised as knowledgeable and friendly, sets the tone for the trip. The journey to the first major stop takes around three hours, which gives you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Some reviews mention that your guide, Adam for example, shares interesting tidbits along the way, making the long drive part of the experience rather than just transportation.

The Hill of Crosses

This is undoubtedly the most emotionally impactful stop. The Hill of Crosses is one of Lithuania’s most iconic sites, with thousands of crosses left by visitors over decades—some small, some towering. It’s a place that feels both deeply personal and historically significant, symbolizing resilience and faith.

You get about an hour here, enough to walk around, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. It’s a site that often leaves visitors spellbound. As one reviewer put it: “The Hill of Crosses was all I had hoped it would be. We brought crosses from various orientations; it was very moving.” Expect to see crosses from all over the world, and if you’re inclined, you can add your own.

Rundale Palace – A Mini Versailles

Next, you’ll head into Latvia to visit Rundale Palace, often described as a smaller version of Versailles. The palace’s architecture and gardens make it a highlight, with ornate interiors and beautifully maintained grounds. You’ll spend about 2.5 hours here, which is enough to explore the main rooms and perhaps snap some photos of the gardens. Admission isn’t included, so budget for that separately.

Many travelers praise the palace as “very nice,” with some likening it to a tiny royal residence. The guide usually provides background on the history and architecture, making it more than just a stroll through pretty rooms.

Bauska Castle

After lunch, the tour continues to Bauska Castle, a reconstructed medieval fortress that stands prominently near the Bauska town. The castle’s grounds and towers provide a glimpse into Latvia’s medieval past. The tour includes entry tickets, which many reviewers appreciated since it saves some hassle.

Visitors generally enjoy the chance to walk around the castle walls and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s a solid stop that balances history with scenic views.

Arrival in Riga and City Highlights

The final leg ends with a visit to Riga’s Town Hall Square, where you can soak in the vibrant city atmosphere. The drop-off is at your hotel, making the end of the day convenient after a full day of sightseeing.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as a major plus. Adam, in particular, receives high praise for being both a safe driver and an engaging storyteller. Travelers also mention how well the itinerary is planned, with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

One user shared that the Hill of Crosses was “extraordinarily moving,” emphasizing how impactful that stop can be. Others note that the Palace feels like a “small Versailles,” capturing the grandeur of this Latvian gem.

However, some mention that the price feels a bit high—especially since entrance fees for Rundale Palace aren’t included, adding extra costs. There’s also a note of caution about Bauska Castle being closed on Mondays, so check the schedule beforehand.

The Value for Money

Considering the cost (~$260 per person), the tour offers good value if you’re keen to see these attractions efficiently. The guided commentary, transportation, and organized stops make it a hassle-free way to cover a lot ground. Reviewers also mention the flexibility of timing, allowing you to decide how long to linger at each site, which adds to the overall experience.

Important Practical Details

• The tour runs approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am.
• It includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Vilnius and Riga, which is a real time-saver.
• The group is private, so you won’t be sharing with strangers.
• Make sure to bring your passport, as border control between Lithuania and Latvia is part of the journey.
• Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Bauska Castle is closed on Mondays during the off-season, so plan accordingly.
• Food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch.

The Sum Up

This Vilnius to Riga day trip is a smart choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive and convenient way to see some of the Baltic region’s highlights. It balances scenic drives, historical sites, and cultural landmarks, all within a well-structured itinerary. The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, making each stop not just visually appealing but also informative.

While the price might seem steep for some, the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and entry to some sites makes it a handy package—especially if you’re short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience. The powerful experience of the Hill of Crosses alone often justifies the trip, and the architectural beauty of Rundale Palace provides a satisfying contrast.

In terms of suitability, this tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural symbols. It’s not a casual sightseeing walk but rather a curated day that offers depth and insight. If that sounds like your kind of trip, then this tour should be on your shortlist.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your central Vilnius hotel and drop-off at your Riga hotel, making the day smooth and convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending with your return to Riga.

Are entrance tickets included?
Bauska Castle tickets are included in the price. However, tickets to Rundale Palace are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but check if Bauska Castle is closed on Mondays during the off-season, which might affect your plans.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized pace and dialogue.

What’s the most emotionally impactful part?
Many say the Hill of Crosses is the highlight—its atmosphere is deeply moving and memorable.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, some snacks, water, and comfortable shoes for walking around the sites.

If you’re after an efficient, guided way to experience some of the Baltic’s most meaningful sights, this Vilnius to Riga tour balances history, architecture, and scenery nicely. Just plan for extra costs at Rundale Palace and check the castle’s schedule if visiting in the off-season. It’s a well-rounded option that offers a lot for a single day, especially if guided insights and comfort matter to you.