2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska castle

Thinking about a day trip from Riga that combines history, stunning architecture, and a touch of spiritual tradition? This tour promises just that—an eight-hour journey through Latvia and Lithuania, packed with some of the most iconic sights. From medieval castles to baroque palaces and a unique hill adorned with thousands of crosses, it offers a balanced taste of the region’s rich culture and history.

What we really love about this experience is how it hits a sweet spot between well-organized sightseeing and the freedom to explore at your own pace. The stops at Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace are highlights not just for their beauty but for the stories they tell, while the Hill of Crosses offers a truly moving moment. And with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a relaxed way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed.

One thing to bear in mind is the overall duration—eight hours—so it’s not ideal if you prefer to linger longer at each site. Plus, the tour doesn’t include lunch, which means planning ahead or grabbing a bite during free time. But if you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated day that showcases some of the most fascinating spots in Latvia and Lithuania, this could be just what you need.

This tour works best for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to the region without the hassle of navigating on their own. If you enjoy engaging guides, scenic stops, and getting a good feel for the area’s highlights in one go, keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what’s on offer.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines visits to two countries—Latvia and Lithuania—in a single day.
• Flexible exploration: You can browse each site at your own pace during the free time.
• Scenic stops: The itinerary includes stunning views, photo opportunities, and a memorable pilgrimage site.
• Value for money: At around $150, the tour includes entry tickets, parking, and a comfortable ride.
• Guided insights: The guide is generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Practical considerations: No lunch included; plan to bring snacks or eat during free time.

A Complete Tour Experience

Let’s start with the itinerary—a well-structured lineup designed to give you a taste of Latvia and Lithuania’s diverse sights. The day begins early in Riga, with pickup from a central location. From there, you’re whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable and relaxed, especially if you’re traveling in the warmer months.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Charm with a Modern Touch

First stop is Bauska Castle, a site often compared to a “Game of Thrones” set—thanks to its fortress ruins and well-preserved tower. We loved how recent renovations have improved the viewing experience, with access to a newly restored tower offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. During your 30-minute visit, you can explore the fortress ruins, climb the tower, and snap some photos of the scenic river landscape.

Reviewers frequently highlight the castle as a highlight, describing it as a “nice final stop” that offers some historical context and great photo opportunities. The admission fee is included, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs here, which adds to the perceived value.

Rundale Palace: Tiny Versailles in Latvia

Next is Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s version of Versailles. This baroque masterpiece and its gardens are the perfect place to enjoy some serenity and beauty without huge crowds. The two-hour stop gives ample time to wander through the opulent rooms, admire the intricate details, and stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens. It’s a genuine highlight for many, offering a glimpse into Latvian aristocratic life of centuries past.

According to reviews, the palace is “beautiful” and “well worth visiting,” and most appreciate the opportunity to enjoy it at a leisurely pace. Some mention that the café inside the palace has limited options, so bringing your own snacks might be wise if you want a more substantial meal. The included ticket covers both the palace and its gardens, making it easy to focus on enjoying rather than worrying about costs.

Border Stop: A Quick Photo Opportunity

A brief five-minute stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border is included, where travelers often take photos with the border signs. It’s a small but fun detail—an easy way to mark the crossing into Lithuania and add a memorable shot to your day.

Kryziu Kalnas: The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is one of the most moving attractions on this trip. With countless crosses of all sizes and materials, it’s a pilgrimage site that feels both spiritual and surreal. The one-hour stop here allows you to walk around, take photos, and add your own cross if you wish.

Travelers frequently describe this as “an eye-opener,” and reviews confirm it’s “fascinating” to see the seemingly endless collection of crosses. It’s a place that stirs emotions and offers a quiet moment of reflection, making it a memorable highlight of the day.

Logistics and Practicalities

The entire tour lasts about eight hours, with a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing, travel, and free time. The group size is limited to 18 people, which helps keep things intimate and allows for more interaction with the guide.

The tour fee, around $151 per person, includes all entry tickets (Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace), parking fees, and the comfortable vehicle. Notably, it does not include lunch, so packing snacks or planning to eat at Rundale Palace’s café or nearby restaurants makes sense. Reviewers have noted the café’s limited menu, so bringing your own food might be the better option if you’re hungry.

Most travelers find the value good, especially considering the number of sites visited and the level of organization. Several reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which adds a lot to the experience. One reviewer called the guide “brilliant,” highlighting how the guide kept everyone entertained and informed.

The timing is designed to maximize your experience without rushing. The stops are short but enough to get a good sense of each site. The tour starts early at 8:00 am, so it’s ideal for those who prefer to make the most of their day.

Transportation: Comfortable and Convenient

The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the journey pleasant even in warmer weather. The driver offers a smooth ride, and review comments suggest that the experience feels relaxed rather than hurried. For those traveling solo or in small groups, the shared ride offers a friendly, less impersonal alternative to large tour buses.

Additional Considerations

• The tour is suitable for most travelers; it’s not overly strenuous but does involve walking and some stair climbing at the palace and castle.
• Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with disabilities or emotional support needs.
• You’re welcome to leave your own cross at Kryziu Kalnas if you wish, adding your story to a long tradition of devotion.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Guests consistently praise the guides, with comments like “very knowledgeable” and “friendly.” Many mention the well-paced nature of the tour, feeling that the stops are enough to enjoy each site without dragging. The scenic views, especially at Bauska and Rundale, get plenty of love from those who appreciate good photography and quiet moments of awe.

However, a few reviews note that guides could improve their storytelling or historical detail. One traveler remarked that the guide didn’t seem to remember many dates or specifics, but still enjoyed the overall experience. The flexibility to explore sites at your own pace helps mitigate some of these concerns.

What You’ll Love

• The chance to visit two countries in a single day, making it a perfect short trip for those with limited time.
• The beauty and tranquility at Rundale Palace and its gardens, especially if you skip the crowds.
• The fascinating Hill of Crosses, a site that stays with you long after you leave.
• The overall value considering the included tickets, transportation, and the amount of sightseeing.

Possible Drawbacks

• No included lunch, so you’ll need to plan ahead or find a nearby spot.
• The eight-hour duration might feel long if you prefer shorter, more relaxed outings.
• Some travelers may wish for more detailed historical commentary, but this varies by guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive day trip that combines culture, history, architecture, and a bit of spiritual significance, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience with the freedom to explore each site at their own pace. If you’re interested in stunning photo opportunities, impressive castles, and unique pilgrimage sites, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

It’s also well-suited for those traveling in a small group or solo, thanks to its intimate nature and friendly guides. However, if you prefer more time at each location or want a fully customizable experience, private tours might be better suited.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have time to explore Rundale Palace and its grounds, so bringing snacks or eating there is your best bet.

How long are the stops?
Stops range from 5 minutes at the border, 30 minutes at Bauska Castle, 2 hours at Rundale Palace, and 1 hour at the Hill of Crosses. These are designed to give enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically family-focused, most sites involve walking and some stairs. It’s best for older children who can handle the pace and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
Entry tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, parking fees, and transportation in a comfortable vehicle are included.

Can I leave a cross at Kryziu Kalnas?
Yes, you’re welcome to leave your own cross as part of the site’s tradition.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 29 days in advance, and early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to 18, ensuring a more personal experience.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at Riga Free Tours, Reformcijas Laukums, in the Old Town.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, some snacks, and be ready for a full day of sightseeing.

What happens if it rains?
Most of the sites are outdoor or semi-outdoor, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if the weather calls for it.

If you’re looking to see a good chunk of Latvia and Lithuania in one day without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets, this tour offers a lot of value. It provides a well-organized, scenic, and meaningful experience that covers some of the most beloved sights—medieval castles, baroque palaces, and a profoundly atmospheric hill of crosses.

It’s a solid choice for history and culture enthusiasts, solo travelers, and those who want a taste of the region’s highlights with the comfort of a guided setup. Just remember, it’s a full day, so come prepared to walk and explore.

Whether you’re keen to capture stunning photos or reflect quietly at Kryziu Kalnas, this trip will leave you with enough memories—and stories—to last.