Vilnius to Riga Day Trip: The Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle

Setting out on a Vilnius to Riga day trip offers an enriching opportunity to uncover Lithuania and Latvia’s cultural gems. Travelers can enjoy the spiritual significance of the Hill of Crosses, marvel at the Baroque elegance of Rundale Palace, and explore the medieval charm of Bauska Castle. With a knowledgeable driver-guide providing live commentary, visitors can explore the history and significance of each site, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Whether seeking a deeper understanding of the region or simply a captivating day of sightseeing, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• A full-day tour from Vilnius to Riga that includes visits to the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle, with live commentary from a knowledgeable driver-guide.

• The package includes hotel pickup in Vilnius, drop-off in Riga, and admission tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace, allowing for extensive exploration of each attraction.

• The tour provides opportunities to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the Hill of Crosses, a captivating religious site in Lithuania, and the Baroque splendor of Rundale Palace in Latvia.

• Bauska Castle, a 13th-century fortification in Latvia, offers insights into the region’s turbulent past and showcases well-preserved ruins with ornate architectural details.

• The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult, with a valid passport required for all travelers on the travel day.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day tour from Vilnius to Riga includes a visit to the renowned Hill of Crosses, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore this iconic Lithuanian landmark.

Along the way, the tour also stops at Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, allowing ample time to discover the rich history and architecture of these impressive sites.

Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable driver-guide offers live commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup in Vilnius and drop-off in Riga, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures.

Travelers can look forward to a comprehensive and well-structured excursion showcasing the best of the region.

Included in the Package

This full-day tour from Vilnius to Riga includes pickup service from a centrally located hotel in Vilnius and drop-off at a centrally located hotel in Riga.

The package also includes:

• A driver-guide who provides live commentary throughout the journey
• Entrance tickets to Bauska Castle and Rundale Palace
• Ample time to explore each attraction

However, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or gratuities.

Travelers should also note that Bauska Castle is closed on Mondays during the off-season, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

A valid passport is required on the travel day.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers have several convenient options for meeting and getting picked up for this day trip from Vilnius to Riga.

The tour offers direct access to preferred meeting points or can arrange pickup from Vilnius hotels, apartments, hostels, or guesthouses. Various meeting points are available for selection.

The tour ends in Riga, Latvia. Participants should plan to start the tour at 8:00 am.

Wheelchair accessibility is available, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers will need a valid passport on the travel day.

What to Expect

Confirmation is received upon booking this day trip from Vilnius to Riga.

Wheelchair accessibility is available, though travellers should note that Bauska Castle is closed on Mondays during the off-season.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and a valid passport is required on the travel day.

The tour includes:

• Live commentary by a knowledgeable driver-guide throughout the journey
• Ample time to explore each attraction, including the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle
• Hotel pickup in Vilnius and drop-off in Riga

Cancellation Policy

A full refund is available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance of the tour. This provides travelers with the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.

Additional questions about the cancellation policy can be directed to the Viator Help Centre, which is available to assist with any inquiries. The product code 10887P36 can be referenced for further information.

The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a captivating religious site located near the city of Šiauliai in northern Lithuania. Thousands of crosses, crucifixes, and statues adorn the hillside, creating a powerful and spiritual atmosphere.

Visitors can:

• Explore the serene and meditative environment, with crosses dating back to the 14th century.

• Learn about the site’s rich history, which represents Lithuanian Catholic resilience and resistance to Soviet occupation.

• Observe the unique architectural styles and intricate carvings of the various crosses and statues.

• Participate in prayers or light candles, seeing the profound religious significance of this iconic Lithuanian landmark.

Rundale Palace

Nestled amidst the pastoral landscapes of southern Latvia, Rundale Palace stands as a resplendent testament to the region’s rich architectural heritage.

This 18th-century Baroque masterpiece, commissioned by Duke Ernest Johann von Biron, boasts exquisite interiors adorned with ornate ceilings, gilded mirrors, and opulent furnishings.

Visitors can explore the palace’s stunning State Rooms, including the breathtaking Golden Hall, and stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens.

The palace also houses a museum showcasing an impressive collection of period furniture, artwork, and historical artifacts, providing a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the region’s elite.

With its architectural grandeur and cultural significance, Rundale Palace is a must-visit destination on the Vilnius to Riga day trip itinerary.

Bauska Castle

Towering over the charming town of Bauska, Latvia, Bauska Castle commands attention with its impressive stature and rich historical significance.

This 13th-century castle has endured centuries of conflict, serving as a strategic stronghold and a symbol of the region’s tumultuous past.

Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved ruins, admiring its sturdy walls, ornate architectural details, and stunning views overlooking the Mūsa River.

Key highlights of Bauska Castle include:

• Exploring the ruins and learning about the castle’s turbulent history
• Admiring the impressive defensive architecture and fortifications
• Taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
• Discovering the castle’s role in the region’s political and military history

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so travelers are welcome to bring their own. However, the driver-guide will not be responsible for providing or storing any personal food or beverages.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

Yes, the tour is suitable for people with limited mobility. The overview indicates that wheelchair accessibility is available, and children must be accompanied by an adult, suggesting the tour can accommodate travelers with varying accessibility needs.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

Tickets to Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle are included in the tour package, so there’s no need to purchase them in advance. Pickup and drop-off services are provided, making it a hassle-free experience.

Can the Pickup Location Be Changed After Booking?

The pickup location can be changed after booking, as the tour provider offers direct access to the preferred meeting point or the option to request pickup from your hotel, apartment, hostel, or guesthouse in Vilnius.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Guests should avoid overly casual or revealing attire to respect the cultural sites visited.

The Sum Up

This enriching day trip from Vilnius to Riga offers a chance to explore Lithuania and Latvia’s remarkable historical and architectural gems. Visitors can discover the spiritual significance of the Hill of Crosses, marvel at the Baroque grandeur of Rundale Palace, and wander through the medieval halls of Bauska Castle. With convenient transportation and ample time at each site, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience not to be missed.