Riga: Hill of Crosses, Rundle Palace, & Bauska Castle Tour

If you’re looking to spend a day outside of Riga exploring some of the most fascinating sites in Latvia and Lithuania, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of history, architecture, and scenery. It’s a thoughtfully designed trip that hits three major highlights—each with its own story and atmosphere—without feeling rushed. We particularly love how smoothly the day is paced and the way the guides bring these historic landmarks to life.

One of the best aspects is the chance to visit two countries in just one day. The border crossing is straightforward, and you’ll get a quick photo opportunity at the Lithuanian border, adding a touch of international adventure. The other standout? Rundale Palace, often called the Latvian Versailles, with its grand interiors and beautifully maintained gardens.

A potential consideration is the length of the day—at around 8 hours, it’s a full schedule. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced visit might find it a bit tight, especially if they want more time at each stop. That said, it’s ideal for those who want a taste of three incredible sites and are comfortable with some bus travel to maximize their sightseeing. This tour suits curious travelers, history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see more of the Baltic region beyond Riga.

Key Points

• Two countries in one day: See both Latvia and Lithuania, crossing the border with ease.
• In-depth guides: Knowledgable guides share stories behind each site, making history engaging.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles with Wi-Fi keep you connected and comfortable.
• Time at each site: Sufficient time to explore each location without feeling rushed, based on reviews.
• Inclusions: Entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle are included, adding value.
• Flexible itinerary: Well-planned stops with opportunities for photos, sightseeing, and walks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Riga Cathedral

The tour begins right in front of Riga Cathedral, a central and accessible meeting point. From here, the group departs in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, a key detail that makes the long drive more bearable. The vehicle is equipped with Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or browse photos of the day’s highlights as the countryside whizzes past. This initial segment sets the tone—expect a friendly driver-guide who is eager to share insights from the very start.

Crossing into Lithuania and the Lithuanian Border

The first major milestone is crossing into Lithuania. We love the way the guide makes the border crossing feel seamless, providing just enough commentary and a quick photo stop to capture this international moment. It’s a reminder of the Baltic states’ shared history and close ties, and your guide will probably share some stories along the way.

Hill of Crosses: A Place of Reflection and Hope

The first major stop is the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s both visually stunning and emotionally moving. It’s a place where thousands of crosses—large and small—have been placed over the years as symbols of faith, hope, and remembrance. Visitors often describe this as a deeply spiritual and contemplative space.

Your guide will explain the origins and significance of the site, which has become a symbol of Lithuanian resilience and faith. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s storytelling made the visit even more meaningful—”interesting, thought-provoking and moving,” as one traveler put it. You’ll have time for photos, walks among the crosses, and personal reflection.

Some comment that the weather can influence how much time you spend here. If it’s windy or cold, you might find yourself wishing for a shorter visit, but overall, the site is a highlight for many travelers. We’ve read that some visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere, which makes it feel almost like a sacred outdoor cathedral.

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Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Versailles

Next, the journey takes you to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s version of Versailles. The palace’s stunning baroque architecture, inspired by French palaces, makes it a standout. The entry ticket is included, allowing you to explore at your own pace, or participate in a guided tour if you prefer.

Visitors often rave about the interiors—the intricate stuccoes, ornate ceilings, and period furnishings. The gardens and French-style grounds add to the visual feast, and some reviews mention that the garden isn’t in full bloom in early seasons but still impressive. One reviewer noted, “The palace is fantastic and the ticket included a tour by a costumed guide,” which adds a fun, immersive element to the visit.

You’ll also find plenty of good spots for photos here, and the guides often go the extra mile to make the history come alive. The relaxed yet informative approach helps visitors soak in the grandeur without feeling overwhelmed.

Bauska Castle and Panoramic Views

After a leisurely exploration of Rundale, you’ll head to Bauska Castle, where a recently renovated tower offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The castle itself is picturesque, and the climb up the tower provides a great photo opportunity—perfect for history lovers and scenery seekers alike.

The guide will give background on the castle’s role in Latvian history, and reviews highlight how the view from the top is memorable, giving a sense of the region’s natural beauty. You’ll also have some free time to wander around the castle grounds, soaking in the rural vistas.

Return Journey and Reflection

The return trip to Riga wraps up with a scenic drive, and the familiarity of the vehicle’s comfort makes the long day easier. Many travelers have said that the stops are well-timed and that the guide keeps the pace just right, allowing enough time to enjoy each site.

Lunch and Extras

The tour suggests some excellent places to have lunch with local cuisine, which travelers find adds to the overall value. While lunch isn’t included in the price, the guide’s recommendations help you enjoy traditional Latvian food in a setting that enhances your experience.

Practical Details: What You Need To Know

Duration: Around 8 hours, starting from Riga Cathedral. Check availability for exact times.
Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned van with Wi-Fi. The group size is typically small to medium—reviews mention a “lovely little group”—making for a friendly atmosphere.
Guide: Live English-speaking guide with a wealth of knowledge, storytelling talent, and humor.
Cost: The price includes transportation, entry tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, and the guide. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included, but the guide’s recommendations help with meal planning.
Who is it for? Curious travelers, history buffs, architecture fans, and those eager to see a bit more of the Baltic region in one day. It’s best suited for people comfortable with a full schedule and some bus travel.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on numerous reviews, travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. Commenters describe guides as “entertaining,” “informative,” and “going the extra mile,” which makes a real difference in how engaging the day feels.

The sites themselves are what make this tour special—the Hill of Crosses captivates many with its emotional weight, while Rundale Palace impresses with its beauty and grandeur. Bauska Castle provides a fitting conclusion with its panoramic views and historical charm.

Reviewers also note that the tour offers great value for money, especially considering the inclusion of tickets and comfortable transport. The well-paced itinerary means travelers seldom feel rushed, and the stops are just enough to get a good taste of each place.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day trip that combines history, architecture, and scenery with a knowledgeable guide. It’s suitable for first-time visitors eager to get a broad perspective of the Baltics, as well as returning travelers wanting a deeper dive into the region’s landmarks.

It’s especially good for people who prefer organized tours that handle logistics, giving you more time to enjoy the sights rather than worry about directions or tickets. If you’re interested in learning stories behind the sites and taking memorable photos, this trip delivers.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle packs in a variety of experiences that showcase the best of Latvia and Lithuania. The combination of stunning architecture, evocative landmarks, and scenic views makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting to maximize their Baltic adventure.

You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the region’s history, a camera full of photos, and perhaps a greater sense of cultural connection. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling make the experience come alive, adding depth to each stop. At its core, this tour offers excellent value, balanced pacing, and authentic moments that can turn a simple day trip into a memorable story to tell.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times available based on your booking.

Does the tour include entry tickets?
Yes, the price covers tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, so you won’t need to line up for these.

What transport is used?
Transportation is by air-conditioned van or car, with Wi-Fi onboard to keep you connected and comfortable during the journey.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins in front of Riga Cathedral and ends back there as well, making it easy to plan your day.

Is lunch included?
No, but the guide can recommend excellent local places to enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine.

Is it suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but those over 95 might find the schedule too packed. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, since the tour crosses borders between Latvia and Lithuania, a passport or ID card is necessary.

Is the guide informative and friendly?
Absolutely. The reviews consistently praise the guides for their storytelling, knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, making the day enjoyable and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here: