Full-Day Private Trip, Hill of Crosses, Rundale and Bauska Castle

Planning a day trip from Riga that hits some of the region’s most iconic landmarks? This private tour offers a good mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery, all wrapped into about eight hours of door-to-door service. We’ve dug into the details so you can decide if this experience is the right fit for your travel style.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized experience—you get private transportation and an English-speaking driver who’s happy to answer questions and suggest local eateries. Second, the variety of sites—from the deeply symbolic Hill of Crosses in Lithuania to the beautifully restored Rundale Palace and the historic ruins of Bauska Castle.

A potential consideration? The tour doesn’t include guided tours inside the landmarks, which might matter if you’re eager for detailed historical insights. Also, some sites, like Rundale Palace, have separate entrance fees, so budget accordingly.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy flexible, curated day outings, especially if you’re interested in history, architecture, and cultural symbols. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want an intimate look at the Baltic region’s highlights, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with an English-speaking driver and personalized recommendations
• Visit three iconic landmarks within a manageable 8-hour window
• Includes bottled water and door-to-door pickup for added convenience
• Note on entrance fees: tickets are separate, so plan accordingly
• No guided tour inside sites—basic info provided during the drive
• Ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized day trip combining history, architecture, and scenic views

What to Expect from the Tour

This private experience from Riga offers a carefully curated itinerary, designed to give you a taste of some of Latvia and Lithuania’s most captivating sites. The journey starts at around 10 a.m., giving you ample time to relax and enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

The Journey and Transport

Having a private, air-conditioned vehicle makes a world of difference in comfort, especially during the roughly two-hour drive between sites. The driver remains at your disposal throughout the day—answering questions, sharing tips, and providing a smooth ride. Plus, bottled water is included, helping you stay refreshed.

The Sites in Detail

Hill of Crosses (Lithuania)

Your first stop is the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s more than just a pile of religious symbols. It’s a potent reminder of resilience, as thousands of crosses have been planted here since the 1831 Uprising. During the 1960s, the Soviets attempted to demolish it, yet the tradition of leaving crosses persisted, making it a symbol of defiance.

Walking around, you’ll notice over 100,000 crosses, many strung with beads that rattle softly in the wind. The stories and legends swirling around this hill—like claims of buried warriors or haunted monks—add to its mystique. Be prepared for a somewhat reflective experience and consider spending around 45 minutes here.

Entry is included, so no extra fees, and the site remains accessible year-round, although the driver will advise on seasonal openings.

Rundale Palace (Latvia)

Next up is Rundale Palace, a jewel of 18th-century architecture. Built for Duke Biron and designed by Rastrelli, the palace exudes grandeur with its ornate interiors and lush gardens. Inside, you’ll find the White Hall, Golden Hall, and Duke’s apartments—each offering a glimpse into aristocratic life centuries ago.

The palace also hosts art exhibitions and concerts, making it a lively cultural hub today. Expect to spend around 1.5 hours here, exploring the interiors and snap some photos of the stunning exterior and grounds.

Note that entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. The driver can recommend good local restaurants for lunch, which can be a nice break after touring.

Bauska Castle

The final stop is Bauska Castle, perched on a hill between two rivers—the Misa and the Mēmele. It’s actually two castles: the older Livonian fortress in ruins and the newer, well-preserved manor house built by the Duke of Courland. The site offers excellent views, and the castle museum covers regional history, including some quirky stories like that of Magno Cavala, who claimed to sell love potion water.

You’ll want to allocate an hour here, enough to wander around the ruins and the restored parts of the castle. Admission is separate, but the experience immerses you in both medieval and modern stories of the area.

What’s Included and What You’ll Pay Extra For

The price of around $370 for a group of up to three people sounds fair considering the private transportation and personalized service. The package includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private driver and transportation
• Bottled water
• Pickup from your Riga accommodation

However, keep in mind that entrance tickets for Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle are not included. The driver can suggest restaurants for lunch, which is not part of the package. If you want a guided tour inside the landmarks, that can be arranged at extra cost.

How the Experience Feels

Travelers who’ve enjoyed similar tours emphasize the courteous, knowledgeable service they received, with one reviewer calling it “impeccable” and praising the driver Karlis. The overall vibe is relaxed but efficient, allowing you to soak in each site without feeling hurried.

The sites themselves are quite different in tone—ranging from the somber symbolism of the Hill of Crosses to the elegant splendor of Rundale Palace and the historical intrigue of Bauska Castle. That variety keeps the day engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip particularly suits those who value flexibility and a personal touch over large group bus tours. It’s ideal if you’re keen on history and architecture and want to explore at your own pace. The fact that it’s private means you can customize some aspects, like spending more time at a site or adjusting your lunch plans.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience—no worries about navigating public transport or sharing the experience with strangers.

Final Thoughts

This private trip packs a lot of history and scenic beauty into a single day, making it a solid pick for anyone staying in Riga who wants to go beyond the city. The flexibility, personal service, and variety of sites make it worthwhile, especially if you’re interested in symbolic landmarks like the Hill of Crosses or regal European palaces.

While you’ll need to pay separately for site entries and possibly guided tours inside the landmarks, the overall experience offers good value, especially for those who appreciate a curated, hassle-free day. It’s a comfortable, well-organized way to see some of the Baltic region’s most memorable sights without the stress of self-driving or group tours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is generally appropriate for most travelers, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. It’s not specifically designed for children, but nothing in the description suggests it’s unsuitable.

Can I request a guided tour inside the sites?
Yes, guided tours inside Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle can be arranged for an additional fee. You should inform the provider in advance if this interests you.

What happens if some sights are closed during winter?
The driver will advise alternatives if any of the scheduled sites are closed. Since some sites may operate on seasonal schedules, check in advance or ask when booking.

How long is the drive between sites?
It’s approximately a two-hour drive between Riga and the Hill of Crosses, with shorter drives between each landmark. The transportation is private and comfortable.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, tickets for Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle are paid separately. Budget extra for these if you plan to enter.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver. They can suggest how to best allocate your time or include other nearby sites.

Is there a lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the driver will recommend local restaurants. You should budget for a meal separately if desired.

What is the total duration of the tour?
About 8 hours, including travel time and visits. It’s a full day but structured to avoid excessive rushing.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, but be aware that some sites might have seasonal hours. The driver will advise on operational hours during your booking.

If you’re interested in a flexible, scenic, and culturally rich day outside Riga, this tour offers a well-balanced itinerary with the convenience of private transport. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore historical symbols, grand palaces, and medieval castles without the chaos of a large tour group.