Best of the Baltics
Take in the best of the Baltics on this 11 day tour which explores the three beautiful Baltic capitals and gets off the beaten track to discover more of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Travelling from Riga to Vilnius, via enchanting Tallinn, stop at the Estonian summer resort of Parnu and visit the pretty university town of Tartu. Explore Latvia's 19th century Daugavpils Fortress and admire the revered Aglona Basilica. Enjoy a scenic walk through Aukstatija National Park in Lithuania, see the lakeside town of Paluse and more on this small group tour.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Riga
Day 1 Riga
Welcome to Latvia and the capital Riga. Upon arrival at Riga airport you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The rest of the day is at leisure. A welcome meeting will be held this evening, in the hotel lobby, at around 7pm.
Day 2 Riga city tour
Day 2 Riga city tour
Today we explore Riga, the largest of the Baltic capitals it boasts a fantastic array of architectural styles and practices. Riga's foundation dates back to 1201 when the German bishop Albert arrived. On our walking tour of the Old Town this morning we'll see Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter's Church and the Swedish Gates along with other fascinating parts of the city which demonstrate its rich history.
This afternoon is free for you to further explore Riga independently or join an optional excursion to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life.
Day 3 Parnu & Tallinn
Day 3 Parnu & Tallinn
Riga - Parnu - Tallinn (Estonia). Departing Riga we travel along the coastal highway and across the border to the pretty Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We have a short tour of the resort before continuing our journey through the North Estonian land of forests to Tallinn, arriving early afternoon. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Estonia's enchanting capital.
Day 4 Tallinn Old Town tour
Day 4 Tallinn Old Town tour
The capital city of Estonia is an alluring combination of the old and the new. Its fairytale-like Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful medieval architecture, cobbled streets and a wonderful array of shops, galleries and cafes. Our sightseeing tour today starts by exploring the old city walls before we head into the heart of the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, the Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the medieval Old Town Hall and the Great Guild Hall.
This afternoon is free for you to further explore Tallinn independently or to join an optional visit to Kadriorg Park and the newly built KUMU. This evening there's the opportunity to join an optional medieval dinner.
Day 5 Optional Lahemaa National Park
Day 5 Optional Lahemaa National Park
Enjoy a free day in Tallinn or take an optional excursion to Lahemaa National Park. Located just 70km from the Estonia capital this national park encompasses 475 sq km of stunning pine forest, lakes and cultural attractions. On the excursion visit Palmse Manor, a beautiful baroque mansion which dates back over 300 years with a fascinating history, a memorial to the von Pahlen family and Sagadi Manor. The tour ends with a visit to the charming 16th century Vihula Manor and the Vodka Museum.
Day 6 Tartu
Day 6 Tartu
Tallinn - Tartu. Bidding farwell to Tallinn we travel on to Tartu this morning, a university town which holds great significance in Estonian history. Here we see the charming Old Town as well as the university which was founded in 1632.
In 2024 there's an optional tour of the Estonia National Museum in the afternoon, which is dedicated to Estonian cultural history and everyday life, from the Ice Age to present day. In 2025, spend the afternoon at leisure.
Day 7 Grasi Manor
Day 7 Grasi Manor
Tartu - Grasi (Latvia). Heading south from Tartu we cross the border into Latvia and visit Stameriena, the pearl of European romanticism having close links with Italian writer Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. Next stop today is a Talava cider brewery in Gulbene where we can sample their produce. Then we travel on to Grasi Manor, a picturesque classicism style estate where we spend the night. This evening we enjoy dinner at Grasi Manor.
2025 itinerary change: Departing from Tartu, we head south into Latvia and our first stop is in Aluksne. From there soon we reach Stameriena - the pearl of European romanticism having close links with Italian writer Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. After the visit, we continue to Cesvaine where we visit the small, private Cesvaine beer brewery and are invited to test the produce. Later in the afternoon we arrive to Grasi Manor, a picturesque classicism style estate in the middle of Latvia. This evening we enjoy dinner at Grasi Manor.
Day 8 Aglona & Daugavpils
Day 8 Aglona & Daugavpils
Grasi - Daugavpils. Departing Grasi we travel on to Aglona this morning to visit the baroque Aglona Basilica and a ceramics workshop. Then we continue our journey to Latvia's second largest city, Daugavpils. Here we enjoy a tour of the historical city centre, visit the 19th century Daugavpils Fortress and the Mark Rothko Art Centre where we can see original masterpieces of the famous founder of abstract expressionism. This evening we stay at the lovely Sventes Manor just outside the city.
Day 9 Aukstatija National Park & Paluse
Day 9 Aukstatija National Park & Paluse
Daugavpils - Vilnius (Lithuania). We travel south across the border into Lithuania, our second Baltic country today. Around midday we arrive at picturesque Aukstatija National Park with its many lakes, rivulets and streams scattered between forests and hills. Here we enjoy a leisurely walk and visit the pretty lakeside town of Paluse, famous for its wooden church. Late afternoon we continue our journey to Vilnius, Lithuania's capital.
Day 10 Vilnius
Day 10 Vilnius
Known for its medieval architecture and home to over 1,200 buildings and 48 churches that date back to this period, Vilnius is a beautiful capital and one that's bursting with fascinating history. This morning we enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town, where we see Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, the Peter and Paul Church, St Anne's Church, the Old University and the Gates of Dawn.
This afternoon there's a optional tour of The Palace of Grand Dukes of Lithuania where you will learn about the fortifications and the collection of armaments of the castle and palace.
Day 11 Vilnius
Day 11 Vilnius
Our tour ends today with a transfer to Vilnius airport.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Ideally situated in the centre of Riga just 400 meters from the historical old town, the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija offers impressive views over the city. The contemporary styled guestrooms are spacious and well equipped to cater for those visiting for leisure, business and even families with children. Guests can soak up the fabulous city views in the stylish Skyline bar located on the 26th floor. Or why not relax and visit the brand new and conceptually unique Spa Riga.
Hotel Radisson Blu Elizabete, situated in the heart of Riga, Latvia, is a modern and stylish retreat offering guests a blend of comfort and luxury. The hotel features contemporary design with spacious, well-appointed rooms equipped with all essential amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. Enjoy exquisite dining at the in-house restaurant, which serves a variety of international and local dishes. Work out in the fully equipped fitness centre, or relax in the courtyard terrace with a cocktail. Its prime location provides easy access to Riga's historic sites, shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife, offering an exceptional experience for visitors.
This centrally located hotel offers tastefully decorated guestrooms with modern conveniences such as high-speed WiFi, 24-hour room service and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can enjoy an elegant Mediterranean dinner at the on-site Senso Restaurant or lighter bites at the delightful Café Boulevard. On the top floor you’ll find Club 26, where you can take a refreshing swim in the pool, work out in the well-equipped gym or relax in the sauna, all whilst admiring magnificent views over Estonia’s capital.
Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers convenient access to Tartu's main attractions and cultural landmarks. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, featuring modern amenities and a cosy ambiance. Guests can indulge in delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of local and international cuisines. The hotel's bar provides a relaxing atmosphere to unwind with a drink after a day of exploring the city. With its attentive staff, convenient amenities, and prime location, the Dorpat Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and a memorable experience in Tartu.
Situated in the picturesque countryside surroundings, this manor offers a unique and tranquil retreat for guests. The en-suite rooms are elegantly furnished, combining classic charm with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Explore the beautiful grounds, take leisurely walks, or relax in the serene garden. With its rich history, attentive service, and idyllic setting, the Hotel Grasi Manor provides a memorable and rejuvenating experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Latvia's countryside.
Nestled in a serene countryside setting, the Sventes Manor provides a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. The rooms are beautifully decorated, combining classic elegance with modern comforts, ensuring a comfortable stay. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful array of traditional Latvian dishes. Enjoy a stroll through the lovely gardens or take part in outdoor activities such as cycling or hiking. With its serene ambiance, attentive service, and beautiful surroundings, the Hotel Sventes Manor is a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway in Daugavpils.
Set in the heart of Vilnius, Hotel Artis Centrum is 20 minutes from Vilnius International Airport. All Guestrooms are elegantly furnished and are equipped with Air conditioning, Highspeed WiFi and a mini bar. The hotel offers two restaurants where can enjoy a wide range of breakfast menu or have room service delivered. The hotel's recreation area is available to all guest which includes sauna, steam room, whirl bath and swimming pool.
Neringa Hotel, located in the heart of Vilnius, Lithuania, offers a harmonious blend of modern comfort and classic elegance. This historic hotel, recently renovated, provides guests with beautifully designed rooms featuring contemporary amenities and stylish furnishings. Enjoy the on-site restaurant, which is renowned for its exquisite Lithuanian and international cuisine, complemented by a welcoming atmosphere. Work out in the fully equipped fitness center, or order a cocktail at the cosy bar for relaxation. Party the night away in the basement bar or roof terrace, with magnificent views of the capital. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Vilnius, with major attractions, shopping, and cultural sites just a short walk away.
Tour Reviews
The tours were excellent as was the region. Our guide Janis was perfect. My only suggestion is the the guides wear a headset ‘receivers for the guests. Some voices are not strong so a lot of information is lost . It also creates less noise when there are many tour groups around. Our transfer driver from Vilnius to Amsterdam was very late, he suggested our plane came in very early? I think he didn’t check the arrival time or different time zones. The plane was on time according to the pilot and arrival information boards.
Good tour, with excellent guide. Most accommodation good.
Extras and add-ons
Dinner Supplement
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