Helsinki Highlights & Baltic Capitals

Welcome to the start of your nine-day adventure through Helsinki and the Baltics. Upon your arrival in Helsinki, make your own way to the hotel where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers.

This afternoon, we embark on a guided drive and walking tour to explore Helsinki's key attractions. We'll visit iconic sites such as Senate Square, the magnificent Uspenski Cathedral, the Havis Amanda statue, and Kauppatori Market. As we explore, take note of places you might wish to revisit on your free day tomorrow.

This evening, we gather for an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant, offering a perfect opportunity to relax and get to know your travel companions.

Say "hei" to Helsinki this morning, where a leisure day full of exploration awaits. Known for its vibrant art scene and high quality of life, this modern city is yours to discover at leisure. Consider joining locals for a tranquil sauna experience before this afternoon's optional excursion.

Opt for a visit to Suomenlinna Fortress, where you'll enjoy a guided tour, a scenic ferry ride, a light meal, and entrance to the museum. Alternatively, you can delve into the engaging exhibits at the Helsinki City Museum. Afterwards, unwind with coffee and a pastry at a popular local café.

Helsinki - Tallinn (Estonia). Our Baltic adventure begins as we depart Helsinki and board a ferry across the Gulf of Finland. Upon reaching Tallinn, Estonia's charming capital, we will enjoy lunch at a historic restaurant in the Old Town, offering an authentic taste of local life.

Afterwards, join a guided walking tour to explore the city's cobbled streets and admire its medieval architecture. This informative tour provides an insightful introduction to Tallinn's unique history and culture.

The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might choose a relaxing night at the hotel or venture out to discover more of the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Yesterday, we took in Tallinn's main sights, and today you have a full day to explore this charming capital at your leisure. Though small, the city is ideal for walking. Wander through the Old Town and marvel at the 12th-century St. Olaf’s Church, resilient through ten lightning strikes and three major fires. Don’t miss the city's lush parks, which earned Tallinn the title of Europe’s Green Capital in 2023. Alternatively, you can opt for an excursion to the Estonian Open Air Museum for a journey through time.

Tallinn - Parnu - Saulkrasti (Latvia) - Riga. Bid farewell to Tallinn as we set off for the next stop on our Baltic journey. Our first destination is the coastal resort town of Pärnu, a favourite summer retreat for Estonians. Explore its charming seaside atmosphere before we board the coach again.

Crossing into Latvia, we visit the picturesque town of Saulkrasti. Known for its serene beaches, Saulkrasti offers a tranquil introduction to Latvian coastal life.

Next, we arrive in Riga, Latvia's capital. Here, we pay our respects at the Latvian War Cemetery, a poignant reminder of the country's history. Following this, we check into our hotel and embark on an orientation walk through Riga's Old Town. This area is renowned for its impressive Art Nouveau and Gothic architecture, providing a captivating glimpse into the city’s past.

The evening is yours to enjoy the vibrant energy of Riga at your leisure.

Today, take the opportunity to explore Riga at your leisure. As the largest capital in the Baltics, Riga boasts over 800 years of history. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town and admire architectural wonders such as the Riga Dom Cathedral. The city offers lush parks, diverse architecture, and exquisite dining, promising something for every traveller. Sample local cuisine at one of the many exceptional restaurants.

Alternatively, join the optional Riga+ excursion to discover the House of the Blackheads, the bustling Riga Central Market, and the Corner House Museum, each offering unique insights into the city's past. Whether you explore independently or opt for a guided tour, the day is yours to enjoy.

Riga - Trakai (Lithuania) - Vilnius. Begin your day with an early departure as we bid farewell to Riga and journey into Lithuania. Our first stop is the Hill of Crosses, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with countless crosses, each symbolising faith and hope.

We then proceed to Trakai, a picturesque town renowned for its fairytale-like Trakai Island Castle. Capture the perfect photo opportunities this unique setting provides before we continue to Lithuania's capital, Vilnius.

Upon arrival in Vilnius, we'll embark on a guided tour to discover its main attractions, including the Vilnius Cathedral, the Gothic masterpiece Church of St Anne, and Gediminas Tower, offering panoramic views of the city. You'll have some leisure time to explore more of Vilnius at your own pace before rejoining the group for an included dinner.

Good morning, Vilnius! Today, explore the Lithuanian capital at your own leisure. You could start by either taking the funicular or walking up to Gediminas Tower for panoramic views. Afterwards, wander through one of Europe's largest old towns or relax in a local café to absorb the atmosphere.

For those interested, you can opt for the Vilnius+ excursion. This includes a tour of the quirky, self-proclaimed republic of Užupis, an exploration of the underground vaults at the Town Hall, and a delightful local lunch.

Your tour ends today after breakfast and check-out. Make your own way to the airport or your next destination.