Riga: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Trip

Riga: Bauska Castle, Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Trip – A Complete Guide

If you’re seeking a way to see some of the most striking sights across Latvia and Lithuania in a single day, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, architecture, and unique cultural landmarks. We’ve looked into what travelers experience, and it’s clear that this trip combines convenience with authentic charm—no long queues, comfortable transport, and insightful guides make it a good choice for curious travelers.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances quality time at each site with the ease of organized logistics. The stops include a medieval castle, a baroque palace, and a sacred hill filled with crosses, offering a varied glimpse into Baltic history and culture. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full day, so it requires some walking and energy, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour is most suited for those who want to maximize their day, crossing borders and exploring three standout sites without the hassle of planning. It’s especially appealing for visitors who appreciate good storytelling, comfortable transport, and a flexible schedule at each stop. If you’re after a deep dive into history, this might be more of an overview, but for a broad snapshot of Latvia and Lithuania, it’s hard to beat.

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Key Points

• Visit Two Countries in One Day: Cross Latvia and Lithuania borders with ease while exploring iconic landmarks.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private vans and professional drivers make the day smooth and stress-free.
• Insightful Guides & Materials: Learn about each site with printed info and audio-guides on your phone.
• Flexible Free Time: Enjoy ample time at Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses for sightseeing and lunch.
• Stunning Views & Architecture: From medieval castles to baroque palaces, the sights are visually impressive.
• Good Value for Money: Entrance tickets, guides, and transportation included make this a comprehensive experience.

Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect

This tour stands out because it offers a thoughtfully curated route that packs in Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights into a single day—something that’s difficult to do on your own without logistical headaches. We’ll walk through what each stop offers and why it’s worth your time.

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll meet in front of St. Peter’s Church in Riga’s Old Town, a central location that’s easy to find if you’re staying nearby. From there, a comfortable van whisks you away on a 9-hour adventure, with friendly, professional drivers who keep things running smoothly.

The transport is a major plus—rather than public transit or multiple car rentals, you get to relax and focus on the sights. The group size isn’t specified but reviews suggest it’s a manageable number, making for a friendly atmosphere. The vehicle is equipped with printouts about each site, so you can follow along or learn more during your journey.

First Stop: Bauska Medieval Castle

Your first major stop is Bauska Castle, a 15th-century fortress with intriguing ruins and a recently renovated tower. Climbing up the tower offers an excellent vantage point to appreciate the castle’s medieval layout and surrounding landscape.

Travelers consistently praise the free time given to explore the castle ruins and the tower, with one reviewer noting, “We had time to go up in the tower and check out the ruins, which was quite fun.” It’s a good introduction to Baltic history, and the castle’s position near the river creates a scenic backdrop.

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Second Stop: Rundale Palace and Gardens

Next, you’ll visit Rundale Palace, often called the Lithuanian or Latvian Versailles, thanks to its stunning baroque architecture and lush gardens. You’ll appreciate the no-queue access, making it easier to enjoy the interior and exterior.

The two hours allocated here allow for a relaxed exploration—walking through ornate halls, enjoying the meticulously maintained gardens, and perhaps grabbing a snack at the palace restaurant. The tour provides audio guides available on your phone, with free Wi-Fi at the palace, enriching the experience without the need for a bulky guidebook.

Many reviews highlight the beauty and grandeur of Rundale Palace, with one saying, “The views from the gardens are spectacular, and the palace is a true jewel.” The free time is enough to soak in the architecture, take photos, and stroll through the gardens at your own pace.

Third Stop: Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania is arguably the most emotionally resonant site on this trip. It’s an extraordinary place filled with thousands of crosses, from tiny tokens to large monuments, symbolizing faith, hope, and resilience.

You’ll have about an hour here—long enough to walk around, take photos, and even bring a cross of your own if you wish. Visitors often find this site deeply moving, and reviews mention that the audio guide helps explain the history behind the crosses. You can also buy crosses on-site, adding a personal touch to your visit.

Travelers note that crossing the border is straightforward, but you’ll need your passport or ID card for inspection, so keep it handy.

Final Stop & Return

After the Hill of Crosses, you’ll head back via the van, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps review your photos. The return to St. Peter’s Church in Riga is typically relaxed, concluding a full but rewarding day.

Practical Details & Value

The tour ticks many boxes for travelers looking for convenience and depth. Included in the price are all transportation, entrance tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, audio guides, and printed informational sheets. This makes the overall cost quite good for the value, especially as it covers entrance fees and a professional guide.

Lunch isn’t included, giving you flexibility. You might choose to dine at the palace restaurant or bring snacks, which allows you to maximize your time exploring and avoid unnecessary delays.

The duration (9 hours) can be a long day, but many reviews commend the organization and pacing—no one feels rushed, and there’s enough downtime to enjoy each site. The tour runs with a minimum of three participants, which suggests it’s designed to be intimate but flexible.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Viesturs was a truly amazing guide, and the group was fantastic.” This personal touch seems to elevate the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable culture.

The stunning views at each location come up repeatedly—whether it’s the panoramic vista from Bauska castle tower or the lush gardens of Rundale Palace. Many also mention that the value for money is high, considering all that’s included.

Some highlight the international group atmosphere, making the trip lively and engaging. The combination of well-planned logistics, meaningful sites, and friendly company makes it a popular choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing multiple visits and border crossings themselves. It suits those who enjoy history, architecture, and culture but don’t want to spend days doing it all solo. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Latvia and Lithuania’s highlights, as well as those with limited time.

Because it’s a full day, it’s best for travelers comfortable with a moderate pace and some walking. Families, history buffs, and curious explorers will all find something to enjoy here. It’s also a good fit if you prefer a guided experience that provides context along the way.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-organized, value-packed way to experience some of the Baltic region’s most notable landmarks. From the medieval allure of Bauska Castle to the regal splendor of Rundale Palace, and finally the poignant silence of the Hill of Crosses, it’s a diverse itinerary that appeals to both history lovers and casual sightseers alike.

The professional guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtful timing make it an excellent choice for those wanting a hassle-free day trip. While it’s a packed schedule, the variety of sites and the opportunity to cross borders add a unique touch to your Baltic adventure.

If you’re after a day that balances sightseeing with cultural insight—and don’t mind a full day of activity—this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or anyone eager to tick off some must-see spots in Latvia and Lithuania with ease.

FAQ

Do I need my passport or ID card?
Yes, it’s mandatory to bring your passport or EU ID for border inspection between Latvia and Lithuania.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at key sites.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, tickets for Rundale Palace and its gardens, as well as Bauska Castle tower, are included.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you flexibility to bring snacks or dine at the palace restaurant during your free time.

What kind of transportation is used?
A comfortable van or car transports the group throughout the day, with professional drivers ensuring a smooth trip.

Can I bring a cross to the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely, and the site also sells crosses if you want to add your own tribute.

What guides will I have?
An English-speaking driver accompanies you, and you’ll have printed info and audio guides on your phone for each site.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: