Take in Castles, Cathedrals and medieval constructions on this 10 day Baltic adventure. Along with the 3 Baltic capitals of Tallinn, Vilnius and Riga we'll visit the pretty town of Klaipeda located on the Baltic Sea. Stroll through quaint old towns and learn about the engaging history of this impressive region.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Lahemaa National Park and Tartu
Tallinn - Tartu - Cesis. Departing Tallinn this morning we make our way 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. This morning we'll visit the manor house in Palmse, this beautiful baroque mansion dates back over 300 years with a fascinating history and a number of restorations over that period bringing to its current splendor. We will also visit Vihula manor house.
Later we'll continue to Tartu, a university town which holds great significance in Estonian history. We will explore the charming old town as well as the university which was founded in 1632. Our next stop is Cesis in Latvia, a Hanseatic city with winding streets, castle ruins and beautiful gardens.
Overnight: Cesis | Breakfast
Sigulda
Cesis - Vilnius. After breakfast we depart Cesis and drive through the luscious green canopy of Gauja National Park en route to Sigulda. Sigulda is a popular holiday resort and home to the Castle of the Knights of the Sword, originally built in 1207. After exploring this impressive structure we continue south towards Vilnius. En route we will visit the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland, where will take a guided tour.
This afternoon we cross the border into Lithuania before arriving into Vilnius. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Vilnius.
Overnight: Vilnius | Breakfast
Vilnius
Vilnius - Klaipeda. 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'll enjoy a sightseeing tour of the highlights, visiting the old town we'll explore Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, the Peter and Paul Church, St Anna's Church , the Old University and the Gates of Dawn. Departing Vilnius we'll continue to Trakai, the true medieval capital of Lithuania. Here we'll discover the magnificently well preserved 14th century Trakai Castle, impressively positioned on an island in Lake Galve.
Later this afternoon we head for our stop for the night, Klaipeda, a port city where the Baltic sea meets the Dane river.
Overnight: Klaipeda | Breakfast
Klaipeda or Optional Curonian Spit Tour
Today offers free time to explore Klaipeda at your own pace. Alternatively you can join a full day optional tour to the Curonian Spit. This evening there will be the opportunity to join an optional Lithuanian dinner at the restaurant '19th Century'.
Overnight: Klaipeda | Breakfast
Klaipeda and Samogitia National Park
Klaipeda - Samogitia National Park - Riga. This morning we discover the charming town of Klaipeda. It first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and had for a long time before this been a German town with the name of Memel. Strolling through the old town with its narrow, cobblestone streets and old guild house we reach the Theatre Square and the Aennchen Von Tharau Fountain.
Leaving Klaipeda we make our way to Samogitia National Park, here we'll discover the beautiful Lithuanian countryside and will take a peaceful walk around one of the lakes within the national park, Lake Plateliai. We'll then continue to Siauliai and the Hill of Crosses, one of the most revered and holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania. Next we'll north and cross back into Latvia, arriving into Riga late this afternoon.
Overnight: Riga | Breakfast
Explore Riga
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 this morning we'll visit Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, 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 to join an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian seaside resort. This evening there will be the opportunity to join an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish 'Forest' restaurant.
Overnight: Riga | Breakfast
Summer Resort of Parnu
Riga - Tallinn. After breakfast we continue our journey, making our way along the coastal highway we cross back into Estonia. Arriving into Parnu, we'll explore this popular Estonian summer resort before continuing to Tallinn. Once we've checked in to our hotel in Tallinn the rest of the day is at leisure to explore independently.
Overnight: Tallinn | Breakfast
Tallinn Tour
With its exciting blend of medieval tranquility and modern urban life, Tallinn is a fantastically interesting capital city. The medieval Old Town is unsurprisingly a bustling place during the summer months with people going in and out of the various 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, visiting the Toompea Castle, now home to the Estonian Parliament, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 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 will be the opportunity to join an optional medieval dinner at the 'Maikrahv' restaurant.
Overnight: Tallinn | Breakfast
Tallinn
Our Baltic experience ends after breakfast this morning and hotel check out. A transfer will be provided to take you to Tallinn Airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person when there are 2 persons sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' is compulsory for solo travellers or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room and the amount needs to be added to the per person price. The single supplement offers the comfort of your own room and is also available to any other person wanting their own room.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia, Tallinn
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.
Hotel Cesis, Cesis
Boasting an excellent central location, Hotel Cesis offers rooms with views of both May Park and the Place de la Concorde. Each guestroom is also tastefully furnished and benefits from free WiFi and a private bathroom. In the Pagrabiņš Café, guests can enjoy a cosy atmosphere and a variety of pizzas, sandwiches and other snacks, whereas in the hotel’s restaurant you’ll find delicious Latvian and international dishes. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you can also dine on the terrace and soak up wonderful views of May Park.
Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva, Vilnius
Standing on the banks of the River Neris, the Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva is in the heart of Lithuania’s capital. Its sleek and modern-style guestrooms are equipped with plenty of amenities including free high-speed WiFi. Guests can enjoy a fresh meal at any time of day, with the onsite Riverside Restaurant serving a wide-ranging buffet of international favourites. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre, Nordic sauna, jacuzzi and beauty salon, with the Skybar being the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and the beautiful city views.
Hotel National, Klaipeda
Set in the heart of Klaipeda’s old town, Hotel National boasts an excellent location within walking distance of Anika Square and the Old Ferry. The 19th century building offers spacious and comfortable guestrooms, equipped with free WiFi and private bathrooms with heated floors. A buffet breakfast is served in the onsite restaurant, which specializes in local Lithuanian food. The hotel is also connected to a popular bar known as the ‘Fat Cat’, which is a great spot to kick back with a beer and meet other travellers.
Hotel Wellton Riverside, Riga
With views overlooking the Daugava River, the Hotel Wellton Riverside is perfectly located just a short walk from the old town. All rooms at this bright modern hotel are furnished with TV's, spacious private bathrooms and large comfortable beds. A fitness centre including a sauna can be found within the hotel, as well as an indoor pool, offering numerous options for those looking to expend some of their energy. Alternatively, a bar and lounge area gives a relaxed area for people to unwind.
In Brief
The tour was what we expected and more. Yanis was a fantastic guide, very knowledgeable and friendly. He gave us a very good insight into the culture and history of our surroundings along the way. Our coach driver, Zandy, and our coach were excellent.
The Hotel accommodation over all was good.
I would certainly consider another tour with On the Go and would have no hesitation recommending it to like minded travellers. ”
