From Riga: Trip to Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace & Bauska

If you’re considering a day trip that covers some of the most iconic sites between Latvia and Lithuania, this tour from Riga might just catch your eye. It promises a blend of royal elegance, medieval history, and profound spirituality—all in one manageable day. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this journey firsthand to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What immediately stands out about this tour is its well-rounded approach. You get to wander through the opulent corridors of Rundale Palace—Latvia’s version of Versailles—and enjoy the scenic walk through medieval Bauska Castle. Then, you’re taken to the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s deeply moving and visually striking. The other big plus? The small-group setting and the professional driver with printouts make the day flow smoothly and comfortably.

Of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is the full day’s length—eight hours can be a lot, especially if you’re not used to long tours. Also, the tour is quite structured, so if you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or take your time, this might feel a bit rushed at certain stops. Still, for those eager to pack in history and culture without the hassle of organizing transport themselves, it’s a solid pick.

This trip works best if you’re interested in history, architecture, and places of meaningful reflection. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see a lot without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Concise itinerary covering Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights in one day
• Small group setting limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience
• Professional driver and guided narration add comfort and context
• Balanced mix of cultural, historical, and spiritual sites
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours ahead, offering flexibility
• Value for price with included entrance fees and printout sheets

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and How You Get There

The tour kicks off at Rtslaukums, with the vehicle easily recognizable as an Opel Vivaro or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van parked near the Town Hall square, right next to the Occupation Museum. The meeting is straightforward, and from there, comfort is prioritized—your driver is a professional, ensuring a smooth ride while you relax and soak in the scenery.

This initial part of the journey is essential because it sets the tone for the day. The van is modern and comfortable, which is especially appreciated given the long hours involved. With a small group limit of 8, you’ll find the experience more intimate, allowing for easy chatting with your guide or fellow travelers.

Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Little Versailles

Your first stop is the stunning Rundale Palace, often called Latvia’s version of Versailles. Built in the 18th century for the Duke of Courland, this Baroque marvel is a feast for the eyes. We loved the fact that there are no queues here—your tour includes the entrance fees for the main palace and the Rose Garden, which are worth the extra cost.

Once inside, you’ll explore grand halls like the Golden Hall and White Hall. These rooms once hosted lavish parties and royal gatherings, and their ornate decor still reflects that grandeur. The White Hall, with its elegant stucco work, and the Golden Hall, with its shimmering finishes, give you a real sense of the opulence.

Outside, the French-style gardens and the Rose Garden with hundreds of blooming roses make for excellent photo spots. The gardens are well-maintained, and you get around two hours here, which is enough time to wander at your own pace and soak in the beauty.

A common theme among reviewers is the quality of the guided information. One reviewer mentioned, “Good communication by the tour company,” and many appreciated the leisurely pace that allowed them to really absorb the palace’s grandeur without feeling rushed.

Bauska Castle: Medieval Fortification with a View

Next, you’ll visit Bauska Castle, situated on a hill where the Msa and Mmele rivers meet. The site includes the ruins of a 15th-century fortress, plus a Renaissance wing. It’s a fascinating place to feel the weight of history, and you’ll enjoy about 25 minutes exploring the grounds.

The highlight here is the climb to the sightseeing tower, where you get sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a quick visit but definitely worth it—especially if you’re into medieval architecture and panoramic vistas. The guided tour here gives you a snapshot of the castle’s strategic importance, adding context to the ruins.

Reviewers note that the guide’s knowledge makes a difference. One shared that “Thomas was very friendly and knowledgeable,” which enhances the experience beyond just looking at old stones.

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The Hill of Crosses: Symbol of Faith and Resilience

The final stop is the Hill of Crosses, arguably the most moving site of the tour. Covered with thousands of crosses of all sizes and styles, it’s a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and resistance through difficult times. Visitors often describe it as deeply spiritual and emotionally impactful.

You’ll spend about 40 minutes wandering through the hill, which allows enough time to reflect and take photos. Many travelers find this site more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a place of personal significance. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one calling it “a memorial that represents resilience against repression.”

Wrap-up and Return

After the Hill of Crosses, it’s a short drive back to Riga, with the tour concluding at the same meeting point. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, so be prepared for a full day.

The Practical Bits and What You Get

The tour includes entrance fees for the Rundale Palace (including the Rose Garden) and Bauska Castle’s tower—these alone are worth the extra cost as they save you the hassle of ticketing and waiting in lines. Plus, a professional driver ensures your ride is comfortable, and printout sheets with site information add value, especially if you’re into learning as you go.

Not included are lunch and drinks, so plan to bring snacks or purchase something on your own. The tour is designed as a quick yet rundown, so if you’re the type who enjoys deeper exploration, be mindful of the time constraints.

Who is this tour best for?

Travelers who want to see a lot in one day—from palaces to castles to spiritual sites—will appreciate the efficiency and variety. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided tours that provide context and commentary, and if you’re comfortable with a full day’s outing. The small group size means more personal attention and easier conversations, which many reviewers valued highly.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the inclusion of entrance fees and guided commentary suggests good value. For the cost of a full-day trip with multiple site visits, it’s an efficient way to cover some of the Baltics’ highlights without the stress of planning.

Final Thoughts

This Riga-based day trip offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary filled with sights, stories, and meaningful moments. You’ll love the guided insights, the beautiful architecture, and the chance to walk through history and spirituality in one day. The small group size, comfortable transport, and well-planned stops make it an enjoyable and educational experience.

However, keep in mind the long duration—if you prefer leisurely, unhurried exploration or have mobility concerns, you might find it a tad intense. The sites are stunning, but they’re also fast-paced visits, so a good amount of walking and standing is involved.

In sum, if you’re eager to get a taste of Latvian and Lithuanian culture, history, and faith, this tour delivers with style and heart. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers craving a mix of grandeur, history, and reflection—all in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Not really. It involves walking and climbing stairs at sites like the castle tower. It’s best suited for those able to handle some physical activity.

How long does each stop last?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at Rundale Palace, 25 minutes exploring Bauska Castle, and roughly 40 minutes at the Hill of Crosses. The rest is travel time.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs. Entrance fees for the palace, rose garden, and castle tower are included in the price.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and water. Remember, no smoking or alcohol is allowed on the vehicle.

Is this a family-friendly tour?
It’s more suited to adult travelers or older teenagers interested in history and culture. It’s not specifically designed for young children or those needing wheelchair access.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Yes, the schedule is designed to give you a meaningful amount of time at each location without rushing, according to many past travelers’ reviews.

This tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, culture, and reflection. If that sounds like your ideal day trip from Riga, chances are you’ll find it satisfying—and perhaps even memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: