Vilnius: Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Bauska Castle Trip

Traveling between the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius and Riga, Latvia, often involves long drives and complex planning. But if you’re looking for a way to make the most of a day and see some of the Baltic region’s most iconic sights, this private tour takes the hassle out of logistics while offering rich experiences. It’s designed for those who want a mix of spirituality, history, and architecture—all in one manageable day.

What we particularly like about this experience is the door-to-door service, which removes the stress of navigating borders and transport logistics, and the chance to explore three very different sites that showcase the region’s cultural and historical layers. On the downside, it’s a full-day trip, so be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road. But if you value comfort, efficiency, and authentic sights, this tour is a good fit — especially for travelers who want to maximize their time in the Baltics without sacrificing depth.

This experience suits those with a curious mind, an interest in history, and a desire to see sites that reveal Latvia’s and Lithuania’s unique stories. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, small groups, or anyone who appreciates comfortable, guided travel that combines sightseeing with storytelling.

Key Points

• Convenient private transport simplifies travel between Vilnius and Riga
• Visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, a spiritually charged monument with over 100,000 crosses
• Explore Rundale Palace, a stunning Baroque residence designed by Rastrelli
• Optional stop at Bauska Castle adds a medieval touch
• Ideal for those wanting an authentic experience without the hassle of planning
• Limited time on the road maximizes sightseeing and minimizes fatigue

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from Vilnius: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Vilnius, which immediately sets a relaxed tone. No fuss about finding the meeting point — your driver from Baltia Tour arrives at your accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. We’ve seen many travelers appreciate this door-to-door service, especially after a day of exploring or in a city where public transport can be tricky for travelers.

The group remains private, making the experience intimate and flexible. This is a key advantage over larger bus tours, as it allows for a more personalized pace and the chance to ask questions or adjust stops if needed.

First Stop: The Hill of Crosses

After roughly 2.5 hours on the road, you arrive at the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania’s Siauliai region. This site is a testament to faith, resilience, and folk art. With about 100,000 crosses piled along a hillside, it’s a visual feast that’s both awe-inspiring and contemplative.

We loved the blend of spirituality and folk tradition here. The crosses aren’t just religious symbols; they are expressions of hope, remembrance, and sometimes protest. You’ll see tiny crosses of children, elaborate wooden ones, and even crutches or rosaries tied onto the hill—a testament to the personal stories behind each piece.

The site’s history is compelling: the first crosses are believed to have been erected by relatives of rebels who died in the 1831 uprising. Notably, Pope John Paul II visited this site in 1993, further cementing its significance. For travelers, it’s a place that invites reflection and offers countless photo opportunities—just be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a respectful attitude.

Why It Matters

The Hill of Crosses offers a rare glimpse into Lithuanian spiritual life and resilience. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s an active monument that reflects the perseverance of faith through difficult times. Many visitors find it profoundly moving, and it’s a highlight that captures the region’s character.

Second Stop: Rundale Palace

The drive then continues for about 40 minutes to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s jewel of Baroque architecture. Built in the 1730s by architect Rastrelli, who also designed the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, this grand residence was the summer home of the Dukes of Courland.

We loved the way Rundale Palace combines architectural grandeur with intimate detail. The richly decorated interiors, spacious halls, and carefully manicured gardens are a feast for the eyes. Guided or self-guided tours inside reveal the luxurious lifestyle of the Latvian aristocracy, with ornate rooms, gilded ceilings, and elaborate furniture.

The palace also offers fantastic photo opportunities from its terraces overlooking the rolling Latvian countryside. It’s a place that transports you back to the 18th century, and many visitors appreciate the blend of history, art, and architecture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why It Matters

Rundale Palace isn’t just pretty; it exemplifies the Baroque style’s opulence. For history buffs and architecture lovers, it’s a chance to see a well-preserved example of Rastrelli’s work, set against a peaceful backdrop. It’s also far less crowded than European royal palaces, making it feel more personal and special.

Optional Stop: Bauska Castle

About an hour from Rundale, Bauska Castle offers a quick but rewarding peek into medieval Latvia. The castle’s ruins and the surrounding park provide a scenic spot for a photostop, with views of the Bauska River and the merging of the Latvia and Lithuania border.

While time might be limited here, many travelers find Bauska’s history and setting worthwhile. It adds a touch of the medieval to your itinerary and offers great perspectives on Latvia’s defensive past.

Why It Matters

Even if brief, the Bauska Castle stop enriches the trip with a sense of historical continuity. It’s a tangible reminder of the region’s strategic importance and feudal history.

The Final Leg: Riga and Beyond

After Bauska, your driver will take you directly to your Riga accommodation — a smooth, stress-free end to a full day. The total driving time from Rundale to Riga is about an hour, giving you enough time to unwind after your sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for those who prefer comfort and efficiency. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and stops at each major site. Entrance tickets and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly—packing a snack or exploring local eateries at each site is easy and often recommended.

The tour’s flexibility and private group setting are major pluses, allowing you to tailor your experience slightly or simply enjoy the ride. The driver’s helpfulness and punctuality are echoed in reviews, with one traveler noting, “Driver was very punctual and helpful.”

Practical Considerations

Since you cross an international border, remember to bring your passport or ID. The total duration of around 8 hours means you’ll want comfortable shoes, especially for walking around sites like the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace.

The tour is available with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, accommodating travelers’ changing plans. Booking in advance guarantees your spot, with the option to reserve now and pay later, adding to the flexibility.

This trip combines cultural exploration with convenient transport, making it ideal for first-timers or those who want a structured yet personal experience. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase the region’s spiritual, architectural, and historical diversity.

It’s a good way to see the most significant sights in a single day without feeling rushed, thanks to the comfortable vehicle and professional driver. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer guided, curated visits over self-planned journeys.

• Those visiting Vilnius and wanting to see parts of Latvia without a separate trip
• Visitors interested in religious and folk art (Hill of Crosses)
• Architecture enthusiasts eager to explore Rastrelli’s baroque masterpiece
• History lovers who want a quick peek into Latvia’s medieval past at Bauska
• Travelers seeking a hassle-free, private way to maximize sightseeing time
• People who value comfort, convenience, and authentic experiences

This private tour from Vilnius to Riga offers a well-rounded look at the Baltic region’s spiritual, architectural, and medieval highlights. The door-to-door service ensures a stress-free day, allowing you to relax and focus on the sights. The visits to the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace provide rich cultural insights, while the optional Bauska Castle stop adds a medieval touch.

It’s a trip that balances depth with comfort, making it suitable for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing multiple transport pieces. The flexible booking and private group format make it a practical choice for small parties or families. While it’s a full day, many find the experience rewarding and worth the investment.

If you’re curious about the Baltic states’ spiritual symbols, aristocratic grandeur, and medieval roots—all in one conveniently packed day—this tour is hard to beat for value, authenticity, and ease.

Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, since the tour crosses an international border, you’ll need your passport or ID card to pass through customs smoothly.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets to sites like Rundale Palace are not included, so you might want to budget a bit extra to explore inside at your own pace.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Vilnius to the Hill of Crosses is about 2.5 hours, and from Rundale Palace to Bauska Castle is roughly 1 hour. The overall trip is designed to balance travel and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely, yes. The stops are outdoor and indoor sites that can be enjoyed by children, especially if they’re interested in history and architecture. Just ensure comfortable shoes for walking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with some water, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, there’s some flexibility to discuss additional or alternative stops with your driver if time permits.

Is the tour available year-round?
You’ll need to check availability for your specific date, but weather and seasonal conditions can affect visits—particularly to outdoor sites like Bauska Castle and the Hill of Crosses.

This trip offers a thoughtful blend of spirituality, history, and architecture, all while keeping logistics straightforward. It’s an excellent way to deepen your Baltic experience in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: