If you’re dreaming of a day trip that combines fairy-tale castles, impressive ruins, and a unique pilgrimage site, this private tour from Riga could be just what you’re after. It offers a well-balanced mix of history, architecture, and authentic Latvian culture, all wrapped into a comfortable 4-6 hour experience. We like that the tour is private, allowing for flexible pacing and a personalized touch, plus the convenience of door-to-door service makes it easy for travelers staying in Riga.
Two features that really stand out are the breathtaking Rundale Palace, often surprising visitors with its grandeur in the Latvian countryside, and the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s both visually striking and spiritually meaningful. One thing to consider, especially if you’re tight on time, is that the tour includes several stops, so the pace can be brisk—perfect if you want a rundown, but maybe less so if you’re looking to linger in each place.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate architecture, history, and authentic cultural experiences, and those who enjoy well-organized, private excursions. It’s also ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, curated day out with knowledgeable guides, without the hassle of figuring out logistics on their own.
Key Points
- Stunning Rundale Palace: A Baroque and Rococo masterpiece that feels like stepping into a European royal estate.
- Authentic Latvian culture: Experience the Hill of Crosses, a uniquely spiritual and visually striking site.
- Flexible itinerary: Customizable, private experience with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Informative guides: English-speaking hosts enhance understanding of each site’s significance.
- Beautiful gardens: The Rose Garden at Rundale reflects centuries of European rose cultivation.
- Efficient pacing: Carefully planned stops ensure you enjoy each site without feeling rushed.
This tour presents a compelling snapshot of Latvia’s diverse heritage, blending royal elegance, medieval history, and spiritual traditions. Let’s walk through what each stop offers and why it’s worth your time.
You can check availability for your dates here:Rundale Palace: A Renaissance of Elegance in the Countryside
Arriving at Rundale Palace is an immediate “wow” moment. While Latvia might not be the first country that comes to mind when dreaming of Baroque splendor, this 18th-century palace vividly challenges that expectation. The architecture is inspired by the French Palace of Versailles, with expansive gardens, ornate interiors, and intricate artwork reflecting the Rococo style.
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, touring the palace interiors, walking among allées, pergolas, and bosquets, and soaking in the views of the sprawling grounds. The palace grounds cover 85 hectares — including the former hunting park, orchards, canals, and the foundations of an older castle. The French-style formal gardens will surely appeal gardeners and history buffs alike.
A highlight is the Rose Garden, nearly a hectare of planting that echoes centuries of European rose cultivation. The garden’s design is both aesthetically pleasing and historically meaningful, showcasing the importance of roses across European horticulture. The guide may point out how the garden reflects the ways in which aristocratic gardens were as much about displaying wealth as about beauty.
For those interested in eating on-site, there’s an option to grab lunch at the Ozollde café, located in the historic kitchen. Keep in mind, this isn’t included in the tour price but can be arranged separately. It’s a good chance to refuel amidst your sightseeing.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rundale Municipality.
Bauska Castle: Medieval Foundations with Renaissance Flourishes
Next, we visit the Bauska Castle, which offers a stark contrast to the regal elegance of Rundale. This site is about the medieval fortress that played a vital role in Latvia’s history. It’s the only Latvian castle illustrating Renaissance and Mannerism architecture within its decorative arts.
The castle’s ruins give you a tangible sense of Latvia’s medieval past. You can walk through the stone walls, imagine the battles that once took place here, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The guided tour lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to explore independently and absorb the atmosphere.
The castle’s significance lies not only in its architecture but also in its role as a symbol of Latvia’s historical sovereignty. Travelers have noted that exploring the ruins feels like stepping into a fairy tale, making it an especially appealing stop for history lovers.
The Hill of Crosses: Latvia’s Unique Pilgrimage Site
The Hill of Crosses is a striking sight—an old hilltop covered with over 100,000 crosses of all sizes. The site has a layered history, with local tradition holding that visitors have left crosses for centuries for various reasons — prayers, memorials, or acts of faith.
Myth surrounds this place, and you might find it hard to believe the number of crosses and the almost surreal atmosphere of the site. It’s a powerful reminder of perseverance and faith, especially considering its history of rebirth after attempts to destroy it under Soviet rule.
Spending about 45 minutes here allows enough time for a walk, reflection, and some photographs. It’s a place that’s both visually impressive and spiritually moving, offering a quiet contrast to the grandiosity of Rundale.
Practical Details and Logistics
This tour is designed for convenience. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it an easy way to see these sites without the hassle of navigating public transport. The transportation is comfortable, and the entire experience is tailored to private groups, which means you can personalize your pace slightly and avoid large crowds.
The entire trip lasts about 4 to 6 hours, which is enough to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The stops are well-spaced, with enough time for sightseeing, photos, and brief exploration.
The tour is conducted in English, with an engaging host who can provide historical insights and answer questions along the way. Bottled water is supplied, keeping you refreshed, but meals are at your own expense. You might find the price to be quite reasonable given the experience and the convenience of door-to-door service.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Experiences and Authenticity
Both reviews praise the stunning views and the well-organized nature of this tour. Travelers appreciated the flexibility and the chance to see the sights in a relaxed manner. The fact that the tour includes self-guided components at each site allows for a more personal experience, where you can linger or move on at your own pace.
One reviewer noted that the Rundale Palace exceeded expectations, describing it as a “true jewel of the Latvian countryside.” Others appreciated how the Hill of Crosses offered a different tone — more contemplative and spiritually uplifting — providing a well-rounded experience.
While the tour covers a lot, some travelers mentioned that the pace can be brisk, especially if you want to spend more time exploring each site in depth. However, given the geographical spread and the substantial history involved, the itinerary strikes a good balance between seeing many sites and savoring each one.
This private tour from Riga offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Latvia’s architectural grandeur, medieval history, and spiritual traditions. It’s especially suited for those who want a flexible, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, and who enjoy seeing a mix of aristocratic splendor, ancient ruins, and spiritual sites.
You’ll love the stunning views at Rundale Palace, the romantic ruins of Bauska Castle, and the mystical ambiance of the Hill of Crosses. The tour’s door-to-door pickup makes it easy to include in your Latvia itinerary, and the private nature means you can ask questions or tailor your visit slightly.
For travelers eager to see Latvia’s diverse heritage in a single day, this experience delivers solid value and authentic sights that resonate long after you return home.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and the time spent at each stop.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, full door-to-door pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient.
Can I visit Rundale Palace inside?
Yes, the tour includes a 1.5-hour self-guided visit inside Rundale Palace, including its gardens and interiors.
What about food?
Food is not included in the tour price. There’s an option to dine at Rundale Palace’s café, but you’ll need to arrange this separately.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in history, architecture, and culture. Wheelchair accessibility is available.
Are the stops guided or self-guided?
Guided at the start, with some self-guided exploration at each site, allowing for personal pacing.
What should I bring?
Don’t forget your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and suitable clothing for outdoor walking and varying weather.
Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.