Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a modern metropolis that is a fascinating combination of old and new. The city has managed to preserve much of its varied history and architecture. Riga has a diverse offering of culture, history, architecture and restaurants. In addition, there are good entertainment and shopping opportunities here. And last but not least – the price level in Riga is really reasonable.
More information about the destination
Riga has grown in popularity in recent years, and is today one of the trendiest urban destinations in the Baltics. In the city, you can come across the opening of new art exhibitions every day, experience new taste experiences in many restaurants or enjoy live music at concerts – the perfect destination for a weekend vacation!
Relax at the spa. If you want to include a relaxing spa moment in your vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Riga’s spa culture dates back to the 16th century, and the price level is significantly more affordable than in Finland. A little outside the city is the Jurmala area, which has several nursing homes and also a white-sand beach.
Food and drink. In Riga, you should especially enjoy the country’s famous food culture, which has been influenced by both Germany and Russia. The country also has a strong beer tradition, and almost every city has its own brewery. You can find your favorite just by tasting. The price level in the city is quite affordable.
Sights in Riga. Riga is full of historical sights, and the Old Town alone is an attraction in itself. Old churches and cathedrals and Riga Castle create the setting for a memorable city holiday. The city’s shopping opportunities are good thanks to many shopping centers. If you’re in the mood for a beach vacation, you should head out to the beach resort of Jurmala, where you can spend your beach vacation on a long, fine sandy beach.
There are good shopping opportunities in the city. Near the main train station is the central market, which has Europe’s largest market. Here you can find everything from a large fish department to fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as clothes to shoes and electronics. If you travel to Riga at Christmas time, you will probably also come across the city’s Christmas markets, of which there are several in the city.
Mežaparks is a green garden area in Riga, where you can sit down with a cup of coffee or take a walk in the green surroundings.
Ask for unique insights, insider tips and hints for off-the-beaten gems here.
Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic break or a nature-lover searching for the quiet corners in the world a city break in Tallinn will not disappoint. Spend your days exploring the museums and quirky cafes in the old town, then get into your hiking clothes and head out into the nature.
Duration: 4 days/3 nights
Programme:
Day 1: Arrival day, Panoramic tour of Tallinn.
Arrival Transfer to the hotel and check-in to your hotel. Explore the Tallinn’s top sights on this 3-hour sightseeing. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, admire the best parts of the Old Town, busy city centre, classical Soviet style housing quarters, idyllic wooden districts, mansions of the wealthy citizens and shabby suburbs. This special tour includes all most important landmarks in Tallinn and also many places that are not included in any regular city tour. In Old Town you will visit the Upper Town, look at marvellous Dome Church and Alexander Nevskijs‘ Cathedral (inside visit) and enjoy the picturesque city panorama views from Toompea viewing platform. You can also see the modern city centre with skyscrapers, Freedom Square, National Library and Opera House. You will see romantic Kadriorg Park and its baroque palace; take a look at lovely wooden suburb also named Kadriorg. Further on you will see numerous block buildings of the Soviet era living district Lasnamäe, drive by the TV tower and look at the peaceful residences of the wealthy people. Down by the sea you can enjoy the view from Pirita beach and get to see Song Festival Grounds and the Olympic Village, where in 1980 the Moscow summer Sailing Olympic Regatta took place. Nearby lies the popular Pirita beach and the romantic ruins of St. Bridget’s Convent. This morning or afternoon tour is perfect for first-time visitors as it offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s sights.
Day 2: Day trip to Western Coast and Haapsalu
Explore the hidden wonders amidst the wilderness, including Estonia’s most romantic waterfall, an old imperial Russian gun battery, the coastal cliffs around the Paldiski military town and picturesque summer resort Haapsalu, it’s popular old town full of galleries and cafes and Haapsalu Bishop Castle. West Estonia is characterized by vast expanses of land, peace of mind and fresh sea air, bays abounding in birds, juniper fields, pine trees and people toughened by the sea breeze on the coast. Taking the scenic, coastal route to Paldiski, your first stop should be the Türisalu cliff. Further along is Keila-Joa, where you can see the third highest waterfall in the country, which is considered to be the most romantic waterfall in Estonia. Set in the forest, next to a 19th-century, Neo-Gothic manor house, it is almost a dictionary definition of picturesque. Paldiski, once turned into a closed town by the Soviet army, has remains of the naval fortress built by Peter the Great. The gigantic Soviet atomic submarine training centre (Pentagon) was situated in the middle of the city. On the way to Haapsalu, the major site of interest is the Padise Monastery that dates back to the 13th century. The Golden Age of the Padise Monastery (Padise Kloostri) was around 1400. The landscape in Noarootsi is dotted with low lakes and thickets of reeds tens of thousands of birds touch down here in their spring migration. One will find nice beaches in Österby and by the Roosta Resort. Haapsalu city centre is characterised by a miniature town hall and romantic wooden dwelling houses. By the seaside Promenade stands Kuursaal, one of the finest wooden buildings in Estonia, which houses a summer restaurant. Independent Lunch in Haapsalu.
Day 3: Day Tour to Lahemaa National Park / departure day
Check out from the hotel in the morning Take this full-day tour from Tallinn to Lahemaa National Park to see the beauty of the North Estonian landscape. With an expert guide, discover the history and learn lots of interesting facts about Lahemaa. You’ll discover that the thick forests and the picturesque coastline of the Lahemaa National Park hold many curious secrets, from hidden waterfalls to abandoned Soviet military installations. We will visit a romantic captains’ village of Käsmu, extraordinary bog landscape with many lakes, abandoned Soviet military submarine station, the manor houses of Vihula and Sagadi etc. You’ll go on a walking tour around the park and tour two of its most magnificent manors – Palmse and Sagadi – which have both been beautifully restored to give you an insight into upper-class 18th-century life in Estonia. It’s a great way to see what lies outside of Tallinn and enjoy some of the beautiful scenery this country has to offer! Lunch in Altja Tavern
Day 4: Breakfast at a hotel. Transfer to the airport
Ask for unique insights, insider tips and hints for off-the-beaten gems here
Vilnius is a wonderful place to wander along the cobbled streets of one of the largest medieval quarters in Europe, to experience a new culture and explore the rich history of Lithuania. The heart of the city is Cathedral Square, from where you can see the castle on top of Gediminas Hill.
Duration: 4 days/3 nights
Programme:
Day 1:
Arrival in Vilnius airport. Transfer to a hotel.
Day 2:
After breakfast 3-hours panoramic tour of Vilnius including walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, the Old University and the Gates of Dawn.
Free afternoon or optional optional tour to KGB Museum, the Museum of Genocide Victims situated in the former KGB building, where the crimes of the Soviet regime were planned and executed for fifty years. Visitors can visit: the former KGB prison, the premises where death sentences were implemented, modern exhibitions telling about the loss of independence in the middle of the 20th century, repressions by Soviet authorities, and the self-sacrificing and persistent fight for independence.
Day 3:
After breakfast half day tour to to Trakai, the ancient Lithuanian capital. The town, famous for its picturesque landscape and the legendary 15th c.Trakai Castle, was a cradle of the Lithuanian statehood, an important military and political centre, headquarters of the Lithuanian Grand Dukes, The Trakai Castle now houses a historic Museum.
Visit of the Trakai Castle. Drive back to Vilnius.
Evening free time to explore the city on your own.
Day 4:
Breakfast at a hotel. Transfer to the airport
Package includes:
accommodation in twin room at a centrally located 4* hotel
3 buffet breakfasts
transfers airport-hotel-airport
English speaking tour guide as per programme
Use of first class coach as per programme
Entrances to Gediminas Tower, Old University in Vilnius and Trakai Castle
The Baltic countries or simply the Baltics, consist of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in North-Central Europe. Starting in Tallinn and ending in Vilnius, you will get to explore the culture and history of the capital cities Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius including a day trip to Helsinki, capital of Finland. This tour is an excellent way to get an overview of all the Baltic countries.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights Overnights: Tallinn (3) – Riga (2) – Vilnius (2)
Tallinn
Latvia
Hill of Crosses (Lithuania)
Programme:
Day 1: Arrival in Tallinn. Arrive to Tallinn – the capital of Estonia. Meet with private coach and check-in at your hotel. Overnight in Tallinn.
Day 2: Tallinn Tallinn’s Top sights on this 3-hour sightseeing. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, admire the best parts of the Old Town, busy city centre, classical Soviet style housing quarters, idyllic wooden districts, mansions of the wealthy citizens and shabby suburbs. This special tour includes all most important landmarks in Tallinn and many places that are not included in any regular city tour. In Old Town you will visit the Upper Town, look at marvelous Dome Church and Alexander Nevskijs‘ Cathedral and enjoy the picturesque city panorama views from Toompea viewing platform. This morning or afternoon tour is perfect for first-time visitors as it offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s sights.
3-hour afternoon visit of Kadriorg Palace. The centerpiece of Kadriorg is Estonia’s only Baroque Palace and Park Ensemble, built more than 300 years ago on the orders of Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Stroll the green promenades, enjoy views of the swan pond, take time out in the rose garden, or admire the landscaping of the Japanese garden. In the majestic halls of Kadriorg Palace, you can get acquainted with the Estonian Art Museum’s collection of foreign art. Dinner in local restaurant and overnight in Tallinn.
Day 3: Helsinki After breakfast transfer to the harbor for a day-trip to Helsinki, the capital of Finland. It takes 2,5-3 hours to reach Helsinki by ferry. Helsinki 3-hours city sightseeing starting from the harbor. The tour consists of the main sights of Helsinki – the “Daughter of the Baltic Sea”. The tour takes you to the open Market Place and on the neoclassic Senate Square with the elegant Lutheran Cathedral from 1852. The tour goes by the Esplanade shopping streets, to the park area where most of the embassies are situated, then to the ship yards. Ship construction is one of the Finnish main industries. Many cruise ships and ice breakers have been built at this ship yard.
The tour continues on the main street called Mannerheimin tie, where are located the Parliament House, the National Museum, the Opera house and the Finlandia Hall designed by the famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. The tour goes by the Olympic Stadion, the scene of the Olympic Games in 1952. You will visit the unique Temppeliaukio Church blasted into solid rock. The tour includes a visit to the Sibelius Park where you can see and photograph the monument of 527 steel pipes, which honors the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
After the sightseeing free time for shopping or discovering the town on your own. Transfer to the harbor. Buffet dinner on board including beer, white and red wine, and soft drinks.
In Tallinn transfer from the harbor to a hotel. Overnight in Tallinn.
Day 4: Tallinn-Riga After breakfast departure to Riga, the capital of Latvia (ca 5 hours of driving). Arrival in Riga, panoramic city sightseeing tour in Riga. Bus tour will take you to the embankment of the Daugava river with wonderful views of the city. You will also see the university building, National Opera House, Central Market, the Zeppelin hangars and pavilions. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gates, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. View the masterpieces of early 20th century Art Nouveau architecture. Overnight in Riga.
Day 5: Jurmala/Riga After breakfast 3 hours Jurmala sightseeing tour. Jurmala is the biggest resort city in the Baltic States. The city is characterized by its wooden architecture with woodcut accents, cottage-style buildings, and resort centers. After arrival in Riga, free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Riga.
Day 6: Riga-Vilnius
After breakfast departure to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The first stop before crossing the border is at the splendid 18th century Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. The palace boasts a beautiful French-style park. En route to Vilnius you will visit the Hill of Crosses with more than thousand crosses. This is one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. Overnight in Vilnius.
Day 07: Vilnius After breakfast 3-hours panoramic tour of Vilnius including walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, the Old University and the Gates of Dawn.
Free afternoon or an optional tour to Trakai, the ancient Lithuanian capital, famous for its 15th century. Gothic Castle on the island of Lake Galve, now housing a historic Museum. Visit of the Trakai Castle. Drive back to Vilnius. Overnight in Vilnius.
Day 08: Departure from Vilnius Breakfast at a hotel. Transfer to the airport.
This wonderful round trip in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania is designed to give you a perfect overview of all three Baltic States. Highlights of this programme include Tallinn, the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe, beautiful Turaida Castle in Latvia, Rundale Palace and Trakai Castle in Lithuania and an unforgettable story of Estonian UNESCO smoked sauna.
7 Days in Baltics Itinerary (October–November)
DAY 1 TALLINN
Arrival in Tallinn. Meet with private 49-seater coach and transfer to the hotel with English speaking assistant.
Dinner at the hotel (3-course)
Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 2 TALLINN-PÄRNU
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Tallinn with English speaking guide.
Visitors from all over the world drop around to admire the beauty of Tallinn, the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe boasting Gothic spires, winding cobblestone streets and enchanting architecture.
Once a home to wealthy merchants settling from Germany, Denmark and beyond, Tallinn Old Town today is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, with restaurants, bars, museums and galleries bringing much life to this historical city centre.
Spend a day in an authentic medieval milieu and you will soon realise why so many visitors have described Tallinn Old Town as mystical, mesmerising and addictive.
Entrance to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
After lunch, departure towards Pärnu
PÄRNU
Afternoon sightseeing tour in Pärnu with English speaking guide.
The rich history of Pärnu and the joyful daily life offer something for everyone. The centre of Pärnu, the lovely parks and the resort area with its famous sandy beach and promenade invite you for long walks. There are sights to be seen dating to the distant Middle Ages, the elegant early years of the resort, the long Soviet era as well as the modern times with their fast-paced development.
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Pärnu
DAY 3 PÄRNU-SIGULDA-RIGA
Breakfast at the hotel
Departure towards Riga, via Sigulda and Turaida.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Sigulda (2-course)
After lunch, enjoy the sightseeing tour in Gauja National Park.
Entrance to Turaida Castle, excursion with Turaida Castle English speaking guide.
The territory of Museum Reserve covers 43.63 ha and is rich in archaeological, architectural and art monuments, which provide information about historical events of one thousand years, starting from the 11th century. The aim of the museum reserve is to preserve for future generations one of the oldest sets of cultural monuments inLatvia– the one that is found in the historical centre of Turaida. The region has been declared to be a specifically protected cultural monument with specific historical, scientific and cultural values which are a part of the national wealth of the Republic of Latvia.
Departure towards Riga
Afternoon free in Riga, dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Riga
DAY 4 RIGA-RUNDALE-VILNIUS
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Riga with English speaking guide.
The biggest metropolis in the Baltics, Riga perfectly blends timeless tradition and cutting edge cool. In its 800 years of turbulent history, everyone from German knights to Swedish kings and Soviet commissars have left their footprints, and today Latvia’s capital is an exciting European metropolis at the crossroads of eastern and northern Europe.
Riga’s astonishing skyline tells the story, as the timeless Gothic spires in the Old Town mingle with the fantastic facades of one of the world’s richest collections of Art Nouveau on the grand boulevards.
Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobblestones and breathtaking river views, as well as Europe’s Wifi capital with almost 1,000 spots to get online for free.
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
After lunch, departure from Riga to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.
Visit Rundale Palace en route, enjoy short route excursion with museum English speaking guide.
The Rundale Palace is set amidst the fertile Zemgale Plains in the south of Latvia. Most of the interior decorations were created between 1765 and 1768 when a sculptor from Berlin Johann Michael Graff, and Italian painters from St. Petersburg Francesco Martini and Carlo Zucchi worked at the palace.
The representation rooms in the eastern wing of the palace – the Gilt Hall, the White Hall, and the Great Gallery – are open to the public. The central block accommodates the Duke’s suite with reception parlours and private rooms, and the eastern block – a fully restored suite of Duchess’s rooms.
Arrival to Vilnius, dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Vilnius
DAY 5 VILNIUS-TRAKAI-SIAULIAI-RIGA
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Vilnius with English peaking guide
Vilnius – the capital of Lithuania, situated on the banks of the rivers Neris and Vilnia, first time was mentioned in 1323 when Grand Duke Gediminas built a Castle there. Today the tower of this Castle is one of the landmarks and symbols of the city. The old Town of Vilnius is oneof the biggest (360 ha) and oldest in Eastern Europe.
The magic atmosphere, the magnificent splendid architectural blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classicism styles makes this wonderful city to explore. In 1994 Vilnius Od Town was included into UNESCO heritage register.
Entrance to Trakai Castle
Trakai History Museum and Island Castle are the objects representing Lithuanian culture and history, there come almost all delegations that are for a visit in Lithuania. The Castle was honoured with the visit paid by Danish Queen Margaret II, Swedish King Carl XVI Gustav together with Queen Silvia, the presidents of Hungary, Estonia, Greece, Kazakhstan, China, Latvia, Poland, Macedonia, Portugal, Ukraine and Uzbek; Prime Ministers, Ministers, Ambassadors of many countries paid their visits to Trakai History Museum and Island Castle. In the Great Chamber of Island Castle some intergovernmental treaties were signed.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Trakai (2-course)
After lunch, departure towards Riga.
Visit Siauliai, Hill of Crosses en route
The Hill of Crosses (Lithuanian: About this sound Kryžių kalnas is a site of pilgrimage about 12 km north of the city of Šiauliai, in northern Lithuania. The precise origin of the practice of leaving crosses on the hill is uncertain, but it is believed that the first crosses were placed on the former Jurgaičiai or Domantai hill fort after the 1831 Uprising. Over the generations thousands of tiny effigies and rosaries have been brought here by Catholic pilgrims. The exact number of crosses is unknown, but estimates put it at about 55,000 in 1990 and 100,000 in 2006.
Arrive to Riga
Overnight in Riga
DAY 6 RIGA-MOOSKA-TARTU-TALLINN
Breakfast at the hotel
Departure towards Tallinn.
Stopover at Mooska Farm in Võromaa (Estonia), UNESCO smoked sauna story, degustation of local products and smoked ham.
Optonal nature hiking tour in Vallamäe walking path (~1,5h) – 11 EUR/per person
Mooska Farm is located in Võru County Haanja, on the foot of the beautiful scenery of Vällamäe. Locals live here in harmony with nature and ancestral heritage and wish to share their lifestyle and local cultural heritage with the guests. Traditional smoked sauna and delicious local food are just few of many treasures you can find and feel here.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Tartu (2-course)
Continue the route to Tallinn.
Arrival to Tallinn, dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 7 TALLINN
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer from the hotel to the airport with English speaking assistant
… including NIDA, KLAIPEDA, KIHNU ISLAND and SAAREMAA
An all-in comprehensive tour in the Baltics that allows you to discover everything that makes Baltic States special. It encompasses most of the highlights included in our 7 day tour of the Baltics, but has some interesting extra stops: beautiful Nida area, UNESCO protected Kihnu Island and Estonians favourite vacation spot, the 2nd biggest island in Baltic Sea – Saaremaa.
14 Days in Baltics Itinerary (April-September)
DAY 1 VILNIUS
Arrival in Tallinn. Meet with private 49-seater coach and transfer to the hotel with English speaking assistent.
Dinner at the hotel (3 course)
Overnight in Vilnius
DAY 2 VILNIUS
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Vilnius with English peaking guide
VILNIUS – the capital of Lithuania, situated on the banks of the rivers Neris and Vilnia, first time was mentioned in 1323 when Grand Duke Gediminas built a Castle there. Today the tower of this Castle is one of the landmarks and symbols of the city. The old Town of Vilnius is oneof the biggest (360 ha) and oldest in Eastern Europe.
The magic atmosphere, the magnificent splendid architectural blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classicism styles makes this wonderful city to explore. In 1994 Vilnius Od Town was included into UNESCO heritage register.
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
Afternoon free time in Vilnius
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Vilnius
DAY 3 VILNIUS-TRAKAI-KAUNAS
Breakfast at the hotel
Departure towards Kaunas. Visit Trakai Castle en route, excursion with English speaking guide.
Entrance to Trakai Castle
Trakai History Museum and Island Castle are the objects representing Lithuanian culture and history, there come almost all delegations that are for a visit in Lithuania. The Castle was honoured with the visit paid by Danish Queen Margaret II, Swedish King Carl XVI Gustav together with Queen Silvia, the presidents of Hungary, Estonia, Greece, Kazakhstan, China, Latvia, Poland, Macedonia, Portugal, Ukraine and Uzbek; Prime Ministers, Ministers, Ambassadors of many countries paid their visits to Trakai History Museum and Island Castle. In the Great Chamber of Island Castle some intergovernmental treaties were signed.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Trakai (2-course)
Arrival to Kaunas, check in at the hotel, free time.
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Kaunas
DAY 4 KAUNAS-KLAIPEDA
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Kaunas with English speaking guide.
Kaunas is the second-largest city in Lithuania and has historically been a leading centre of Lithuanian economic, academic, and cultural life. Kaunas was the biggest city and the centre of a county in Trakai Municipality of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania since 1413. In the Russian Empire, it was the capital of the Kaunas Governorate from 1843 to 1915. It became the only temporary capital city in Europe during the interwar period. Now it is the capital of Kaunas County, the seat of the Kaunas city municipality and the Kaunas District Municipality. It is also the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kaunas. Kaunas is located at the confluence of the two largest Lithuanian rivers, the Nemunas and the Neris, and near the Kaunas Reservoir, the largest body of water entirely in Lithuania.
Sightseeing tour includes the entrance to Sugihara Memorial Museum and Kaunas Castle.
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
Departure towards Klaipeda
Arrival to Klaipeda, check-in, dinner at the hotel (3-course)
Overnight in Klaipeda
DAY 5 KLAIPEDA-NIDA-KLAIPEDA
Breakfast at the hotel
Meet with English speaking guide and proceed for a full day sightseeing tour to Curonian spit, Nida and Klaipeda.
The Curonian Spit is a unique and vulnerable, sandy and wooded cultural landscape on a coastal spit which features small Curonian lagoon settlements. The Spit was formed by the sea, wind and human activity and continues to be shaped by them. Rich with an abundance of unique natural and cultural features, it has retained its social and cultural importance. Local communities adapted to the changes in the natural environment in order to survive. This interaction between humans and nature shaped the Curonian Spit cultural landscape.
Human habitation of this elongated sand dune peninsula, 98 km long and 0.4-4 km wide, dates back to prehistoric times. Throughout this period it has been threatened by the natural forces of wind and waves. Its survival to the present day has been made possible only as a result of ceaseless human efforts to combat the erosion of the Spit, dramatically illustrated by continuing stabilisation and reforestation projects.
Sightseeing tour includes the entrance to Thomas Mann Museum.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Nida (2-course)
Departure back in Klaipeda, for a short sightseeing tour.
Dinner at a local restaurant in Klaipeda (3-course)
Overnight in Klaipeda
DAY 6 KLAIPEDA-SIAULIAI-RUNDALE-LIEPAJA
Breakfast at the hotel
Departure Klaipeda towards Latvia, Liepaja via Siauliai and Pilsarundale.
Visit Siauliai, Hill of Crosses en route
The Hill of Crosses (Lithuanian: About this sound Kryžių kalnas is a site of pilgrimage about 12 km north of the city of Šiauliai, in northern Lithuania. The precise origin of the practice of leaving crosses on the hill is uncertain, but it is believed that the first crosses were placed on the former Jurgaičiai or Domantai hill fort after the 1831 Uprising. Over the generations thousands of tiny effigies and rosaries have been brought here by Catholic pilgrims. The exact number of crosses is unknown, but estimates put it at about 55,000 in 1990 and 100,000 in 2006.
Arrival to Pilsarundale and enjoy 2-course lunch at Rundale Palace restaurant.
After lunch, proceed for a short route excursion of Rundale Palace with museum English speaking guide.
The Rundale Palace is set amidst the fertile Zemgale Plains in the south of Latvia. Most of the interior decorations were created between 1765 and 1768 when a sculptor from Berlin Johann Michael Graff, and Italian painters from St. Petersburg Francesco Martini and Carlo Zucchi worked at the palace.
The representation rooms in the eastern wing of the palace – the Gilt Hall, the White Hall, and the Great Gallery – are open to the public. The central block accommodates the Duke’s suite with reception parlours and private rooms, and the eastern block – a fully restored suite of Duchess’s rooms.
Continue the route to Liepaja.
Arrival to Liepaja, check-in, dinner (3-course) at the hotel.
Overnight in Liepaja
DAY 7 LIEPAJA-KULDIGA-RIGA
Breakfast at the hotel
Meet with English speaking guide and proceed for a full day sightseeing tour of Liepaja and Kuldiga.
Set on Latvia’s ruggedly beautiful west coast, Liepaja (Liepāja) is a proud port city with an artistic soul. With its pristine Blue Flag beach, market stalls offering fresh local fish and the local specialty cod dish Liepājas menciņi on every menu, Liepaja is a place with the sea running through its veins.
And its affectionate nickname “the city where the wind is born” reflects a town with a strong individualistic streak.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Liepaja (2-course)
Departure towards Kuldiga and continue the full day sightseeing tour.
Long ago bypassed by a busy world, Kuldiga (Kuldīga) is an architectural gem preserved amidst magnificent natural landscapes.
Nicknamed “the Venice of the North,” Kuldiga is an endearing blend of flowing water and historic buildings on the candidate list for UNESCO world heritage listing.
Having enjoyed its heyday in the 17th century as part of the Duchy of Kurzeme, the centre of Kuldiga hosts magnificent Baroque structures like the Town Hall.
Arrival to Riga, dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Riga
DAY 8 RIGA
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Riga with English speaking guide.
The biggest metropolis in the Baltics, Riga perfectly blends timeless tradition and cutting edge cool.
In its 800 years of turbulent history, everyone from German knights to Swedish kings and Soviet commissars have left their footprints, and today Latvia’s capital is an exciting European metropolis at the crossroads of eastern and northern Europe.
Riga’s astonishing skyline tells the story, as the timeless Gothic spires in the Old Town mingle with the fantastic facades of one of the world’s richest collections of Art Nouveau on the grand boulevards.
Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobblestones and breathtaking river views, as well as Europe’s Wifi capital with almost 1,000 spots to get online for free.
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
Afternoon free time in Riga
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Riga
DAY 9 RIGA-SIGULDA-PÄRNU
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast, departure towards the summer capital of Estonia, Pärnu.
En route, stopover in Sigulda, enjoy a walk in Gauja National Park and entrance to Turaida Castle, excursion with Turaida Castle English speaking guide.
The territory of Museum Reserve covers 43.63 ha and is rich in archaeological, architectural and art monuments, which provide information about historical events of one thousand years, starting from the 11th century. The aim of the museum reserve is to preserve for future generations one of the oldest sets of cultural monuments inLatvia– the one that is found in the historical centre of Turaida. The region has been declared to be a specifically protected cultural monument with specific historical, scientific and cultural values which are a part of the national wealth of the Republic of Latvia.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Sigulda (2-course)
After lunch, continue the route towards Pärnu
Afternoon sightseeing tour in Pärnu with English speaking guide.
The rich history of Pärnu and the joyful daily life offer something for everyone. The centre of Pärnu, the lovely parks and the resort area with its famous sandy beach and promenade invite you for long walks. There are sights to be seen dating to the distant Middle Ages, the elegant early years of the resort, the long Soviet era as well as the modern times with their fast-paced development.
Dinner at a local restaurant (3 course)
Overnight in Pärnu
DAY 10 PÄRNU-KIHNU ISLAND-PÄRNU
Breakfast at the hotel
Meet the coach in front of the hotel and transfer to the pier for ferry to Kihnu for a full day tour to Kihnu Island.
The island Kihnu is part of the Parnu Country in Estonia, and is part of one of the smallest municipalities in Estonia. Along with other islands in its neighborhood, Kihnu forms the Kihnu Parish. Even though the island is small, it is still the largest in the Gulf of Riga, and the seventh largest in Estonia. The area size of Kihnu is 16,4 km2, with length of 7km and width of 3.3km.
What is special about this small island is that it is operated solely by women. Kihnu is the only island in the world where women have absoluute power! There are 604 people living on the island, 69 of whom are school pupils. The four villages of the island are Saare, Lemsi, Rootsikula and Linakula. The reason why women govern the island is simple. From ancient times, men of the island go out to the sea and stay there for months, leaving their wives and children at the island. The survival instinct has forced women to take over control of the island and govern it as best as they can.
Women power is a term often associated with strong women in the Western culture and feministic movements. But on island lost in the Baltic Sea off Estonia’s coast, the term is also figural and metaphorical. Kihnu, a small island in the Baltic Sea, is an island where women have absolute power, as men are mostly focused on fishing and are off to the sea.
Kihnu’s clothes, especially the traditional stripped skirts, mittens and troi are famous in many other countries in the world. In November 2003, UNESCO proclaimed the island as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The cultural heritage of the island includes traditions, games, music, dances, handcrafts and clothes. Music is one of the key parts of the tradition on the island. Women on the island sing and dance during religious feats and other type of celebrations. Traditional clothing of the island symbolizes the poems and the legends of the island.
Full day tour to Kihnu includes:
• Return ferry tickets Pärnu-Kihnu-Pärnu;
• English speaking guide services;
• Traditional lunch in a local restaurant (3-course);
• Local transportation by a truck car;
• Entrance to Kihnu church.
Arrival back from Kihnu to Pärnu, transfer to a local restaurant for a dinner (3-course)
Overnight in Pärnu
DAY 11 PÄRNU-VIRTSU-KUIVASTU-KOGUVA-KURESSAARE
Breakfast at the hotel
Departure Pärnu towards Virtsu, to take the ferry for the biggest island of Estonia, Saaremaa.
Meet with guide at Kuivastu pier, transfer to a local restaurant for a 2-course lunch and then proceed for a sightseeing tour of Saaremaa. Saaremaa – the biggest island of Estonia is known as a good recreation place with unique nature and a lot of sights. Saaremaa has retained its uniqueness due to its location and insulation. In the villages there are still stone fences and houses with thatched roofs, beautiful national costumes and dialectal language are still used. Junipers, dolomite, windmills and the famous local home-brewed beer are considered the symbols of Saaremaa.
Because of its mild maritime climate and soil rich in lime, Saaremaa has very rich flora and fauna Besides Viidumae and Vilsandi Nature Reserves, there are over two hundred single nature objects under protection – parks, high cliffs, large trees, erratic boulders and unique marshy lowlands. The meteorite crater at Kaali is the biggest in Europe and easily approachable for visitors.
Although there are not many post windmills left in Saaremaa’s landscape, they are considered one of the most important symbols of Saaremaa. The post windmill built of stones and standing on a high post, the oldest type of windmills of Europe is characteristic of the West-Estonian islands. In the 19’1′ century nearly each bigger farm in Saaremaa and Muhumaa had its own windmill. Now the way a windmill works can be seen on the island of Muhu at Eemu farm near the dam of Vaike vain (the Small strait).
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Kuressaare
DAY 12 KURESSAARE-HAAPSALU-TALLINN
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast, thansfer to the pier for the ferry back to mainland.
Arrival to mainland, lunch at a local restaurant in Haapsalu (2-course).
After lunch, departure towards Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.
Arrive to Tallinn, check in at the hotel.
Dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 13 TALLINN
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning sightseeing tour in Tallinn with English speaking guide.
Visitors from all over the world drop around to admire the beauty of Tallinn, the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe boasting Gothic spires, winding cobblestone streets and enchanting architecture.
Once a home to wealthy merchants settling from Germany, Denmark and beyond, Tallinn Old Town today is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, with restaurants, bars, museums and galleries bringing much life to this historical city centre.
Spend a day in an authentic medieval milieu and you will soon realise why so many visitors have described Tallinn Old Town as mystical, mesmerising and addictive.
Entrance to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Lunch at a local restaurant (2-course)
Afternoon free in Tallinn, dinner at a local restaurant (3-course)
Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 14 TALLINN
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer from the hotel to the airport with English speaking assistant
Distances in Estonia are short and every destination can be reached within a few hours. However, Estonia is larger on the inside than on the outside. Local traditions and dialects differ from each other making Estonia seem considerably larger than it actually is.
Tour Programme
Day 1 (270 km)
We will take the morning ship to Tallinn where we continue to the town of Rakvere in Viru County by bus. Light lunch. After lunch, we will visit Liliina linen factory.
From Rakvere, we will continue towards Toila. A walk in the lovely Toila-Oru Park (70 ha). It remained from the palace built by tradesman Yeliseyev from St Petersburg. The palace that later became the summer residence of the first President of Estonia Konstantin Päts was destroyed in the last war.
From Toila, we will continue to Narva where we visit Hermann Castle and other sightseeing objects (Kreenholm area etc). Dinner and accommodation in Narva.
Day 2 (220 km)
After breakfast, we will leave Narva for Tartu. We will pass through the town of Sillamäe that used to be a closed “nuclear town” during the Soviet years and we will see the Stalinist neo-classical buildings, incl. the renowned Potyomkin steps from 1940-1950s.
The next destination is Kuremäe nunnery established in 1891. We will then continue to Avinurme where we visit the local Wooden Handicrafts Centre with the largest selection of baskets and other objects, sauna products, wooden utensils, toys and small furniture in Estonia.
We will continue from Avinurme to Lake Peipus (Peipsi). We will go through the street village of Rajaküla extending over 8 kilometres. The bell tower of the Old Believers’ convent is still an active sanctuary where Gavril Frolov established his school of icon painting in late 19th century. Lunch on the road.
We will continue by bus to the beautifully restored Alatskivi Castle reminiscent of Balmoral Castle where we will be given a guided tour. Accommodation in Tartu.
Day 3 (250 km)
After breakfast, we will have a city tour in Tartu. The bus tour allows us to admire various city districts of Tartu: Tammelinn, Supilinn, Tähtvere etc. We will take a walk on Toomemäe Hill. From Tartu, we will continue to Setumaa. An excursion in Seto Farm Museum. Lunch.
From Värska, we will continue through Võru to Sangaste. We will visit Sangaste Castle (late 19th century). The beautiful red-brick castle is reminiscent of the Windsor Castle in England. Accommodation at WagenküllSpa in Taagepera Castle. Dinner.
Day 4 (215 km)
We will start our journey back in the morning. We will drive through Viljandi where we have a short excursion to the ruins of the Order Castle of the former Hanseatic town overlooking Lake Viljandi. We will then drive to Tallinn where we have some free time. Back to Helsinki by boat.
Today’s fast-paced life makes us long for peace, comfort and time to experience and enjoy the beauty around us. On the manor tour, we will hear romantic stories of the past and also experience the historic feel while staying in the manors overnight.
Tour programm
Jäneda – Roosna-Alliku – Puurmanni – Tartto – Alatskivi – Mäetaguse – Saka – Sagadi
Day 1 (215 km)
After arriving in Tallinn, we will drive to Järva County. We will visit the manors in Jäneda and Roosna-Alliku. Jäneda manor is best known for the adventurous life of the lady of the manor Maria Zakarevskaja-Bekendorff-Budberg. We will have a tour in the manor building constructed in the Jugend style of early 20th century. A coffee break in Jäneda. In Roosna-Alliku, we will visit the “White Rose” manor built in the 18th century and owned by the von Rosen family.
We will continue towards Tartu. On our way, we will visit Puurmani Manor (1860) – the grand white Renaissance-style main building owned by G.J.Mannteuffel. Accommodation in Tartu. Dinner.
Day 2 (170 km)
A morning tour in the town of Tartu. We will continue from there to the beautifully restored Alatskivi Castle reminiscent of the Balmoral Castle where we will also have a tour.
We will then make a stop in Avinurme where we visit the local Wooden Handicrafts Centre with the largest selection of baskets and other objects, sauna products, wooden utensils, toys and small furniture in Estonia.
We will then continue to Mäetaguse Manor where we have a coffee break with a tour. Mäetaguse Manor was first mentioned in the 16th century. The present main building was commissioned by Georg Voldemar von Rosen in 1796. The elegant old main building is restored and beautifully furnished. Accommodation in SakaManor Hotel. Dinner.
Day 3 (180 km)
After breakfast, we will start our journey back to Tallinn. On our way, we will visit Sagadi Manor. Then we will continue towards Tallinn through Rootsi-Kallavere village.
The archaic Rootsi-Kallavere village complex is located right next to the pre-fabricated concrete buildings in the town of Maardu. Here we can capture old farm houses and pre-fab concrete buildings in the same picture. The first written records of the village date back to 1241.
We will have some free time in Tallinn for shopping.
The natural beauty and idyllic life of the Estonian islands still attract many visitors. There you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the slow pace of life. Traditions and the contemporary world come together on Estonian islands.
Tour Programme
Day 1 (170 km)
We will take the coastal road from Tallinn to Haapsalu. We will make a stop on Türisalu Cliff (31m) which is one of the most popular day-trip destinations for the people in Tallinn. A coffee break and a short excursion in Keila-Joa Manor.
We will then continue through Padise to Rohuküla harbour and take a ferry to Heltermaa harbour in Hiiumaa. Accommodation in Käina. Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Day 2 (160 km)
An excursion in Hiiumaa. We will visit Vaemla old wool factory where they produce yarn with 100-year-old machines. We will continue to the island of Kassari whose beauty and stories have been recorded by Estonian-Finnish writer Aino Kallas who had a summer house there for years. We will enjoy the sea views and search for lucky stones. Hiiumaa is an island of legends. We will hear stories, for instance, about the hero of the island, Leiger.
From Kassari, we continue through Orjaku harbour and Emmaste to Kõpu. The symbol of Hiiumaa – Kõpu lighthouse (from the 16th century) – is the third oldest lighthouse still in use today. From Kõpu, we will continue to the town of Kärdla. We will pass Reigi church and the Cross Hill (Ristimägi) telling us stories about the life of Estonian Swedes. Lunch and tour in Kärdla.
We will take a ferry from Heltermaa back to the continent. Accommodation in Haapsalu.
Day 3
Before noon, we will have a tour in the historic Bishop’s Castle of Haapsalu, we will walk on the lovely sea promenade, listen to P. Tchaikovsky’s music on his memorial bench and visit the elegant Kuursal.
Driving back to Tallinn. We will make a stop in Luhtre farmstead to take a light lunch and enjoy a tour in the farm and museum. A ship from Tallinn to Helsinki.
There are many sites in East Viru County that can only be found there. Avinurme Barrel Fair and Lohusuu Fish Fair are well known all over Estonia. East Viru County is a versatile but also a controversial county.
Arrival in Tallinn where we will take a bus to East Viru County. The first stop is in the bright white Purtse Castle with a red roof where we will have a short excursion and coffee break. Purtse Castle was built in mid-16th century. The two-meter walls allow a powerful echo.
From Purtse, we will continue to the Estonian industrial region, East Viru County. There are oil shale mines and huge ash hills but also extraordinary nature. Accommodation in Meresuu Spa Hotel in Narva-Jõesuu. Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Day 2 (160 km)
After breakfast, we will go to Kuremäe Pühtitsa Convent established in late 19th century and attracting both pilgrims and tourists. Soup for lunch at Kuremäe.
Next we will go to Kukruse Manor – the world’s first polar manor located in the home village of world-renowned polar explorer Eduard von Toll. From Kukruse, we will continue to Narva-Jõesuu.
On the road, we will go to the lovely Toila-Oru Park (70 ha). The palace built by tradesman Yeliseyev from St Petersburg later became the summer residence of the first President of Estonia Konstantin Päts and it was destroyed in the last war.
Day 3 (235 km)
Breakfast at the hotel. Before noon we will start our journey to the border town Narva. The excursion will take us to the Hermann Castle and historic town center. Hermann Castle allows wonderful views of the town and also Russia.
After the tour, we will drive back to Tallinn. We will make a stop in the town of Sillamäe. Soup for lunch on our way. Some free time in Tallinn. A ship back to Helsinki.
