Discover the best of the Baltics and the Finnish capital Helsinki on this exciting 10 day tour. Starting in the charming Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, travel north via the revered Hill of Crosses to Latvia and Estonia. Take in the highlights of the three Baltic capitals, including Riga's beautiful archtecture and Tallinn's picturesque Old Town, complete with Medieval buildings and Gothic spires. End your adventure exploring the vibrant seaside city of Helsinki.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Vilnius Tour
Historic Vilnius is home to over 1200 medieval buildings and 48 churches and this morning we explore the Old Town on a guided tour and discover some of the highlights of this captivating city, which dates back to the early 14th century. Starting with a visit to Vilnius Cathedral, built in 1783, we then continuing to Gediminas Tower, a small castle that has withstood many attacks over the years. We'll also visit the Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne's Church, the Old University and the Gates of Dawn.
This afternoon is free for you to spend at leisure or join an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania. Here you'll visit the magnificent Trakai Castle which stands on an island in Lake Galve.
This evening there's an optional folklore dinner at a 19th Century style restaurant .
Overnight: Vilnius | Breakfast
Hill Of Crosses
Vilnius - Riga (Latvia). Today we travel to Riga, stopping en route to visit the revered Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace. The Hill of Crosses is a striking pilgrimage site, located in Northern Lithuania, where over 100,000 crosses of varying sizes have been placed on a small hill. Crossing into Latvia we continue our journey north to the magnificent Rundale Palace, built for the Duke of Courland. Started in 1736 and completed in 1768 this Baroque palace is surrounded by manicured gardens. After a guided tour of the palace we travel across the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to Riga, arriving in the capital late afternoon.
Overnight: Riga | Breakfast
Riga Old Town
This morning we explore Estonia's charming capital, Riga. Founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, it is the largest of the three Baltic capitals. On a walking tour of the city we take in some of the Old Town's beautiful architecture and multi-coloured buildings. Our first stop is Riga Castle which sits on the banks of the River Daugava. Next we'll visit the Dome Cathedral and St Peters Church. Continuing on we'll explore the areas that are home to the Three Brothers as well as the Large and Small Guild buildings.
This afternoon is free for you to explore Riga independently. Alternatively you can join an optional excursion to Jurmala, a vibrant Latvian seaside resort, famed for it's sandy beaches and pretty wooden architecture.
This evening there is an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
Overnight: Riga | Breakfast
Riga
Today offers free time to further explore Riga independently or you can discover medieval Latvia on an optional morning excursion to stunning Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. Hear the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before returning Riga.
This afternoon there's an optional trip to the Riga Motor Museum, with its impressive collection of vintage cars, and this evening there is an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant Three.
Overnight: Riga | Breakfast
Parnu
Riga - Parnu - Tallinn (Estonia). We continue along the coastal highway this morning, crossing the border into Estonia and making our way to the beautiful summer resort town of Parnu. We enjoy a short tour of Parnu before making our way through the lush forests of Northern Estonia. Arriving into Tallinn this afternoon the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Tallinn | Breakfast
Tallinn
This morning we embark on a sightseeing tour of the third Baltic capital. This picturesque city is a delightful blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The beautiful Old Town is a friendly, bustling place during the summer months with locals and tourists sampling the many fantastic cafes, galleries and shops. Starting at Toompea Castle we make our way to the Dome Church and onward to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, built between 1894 and 1900 in a typical Russian Revival style. Then we visit the striking, medieval Old Town Hall which dates back to the early 1400's.
This afternoon is free to explore Tallinn independently or you may wish to join an optional excursion to Kadriorg Park and a visit to the KUMU, the award winning new Estonian art museum.
This evening an optional medieval dinner will be offered at the 'Maikrahv' restaurant.
Overnight: Tallinn | Breakfast
Tallinn to Helsinki
Tallinn - Helsinki. This morning there's an optional day excursion to Lahemaa National Park, where we visit Palmse Manor, 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. After a break for lunch we head back to Tallinn to take the ferry to Helsinki. Enjoy the scenery en route as we travel through the Finnish archipelago en route to Finland's seaside capital. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel.
Overnight: Helsinki | Breakfast
Helsinki
This morning we explore Helsinki, the green and lively Finnish capital. Our guided tour takes us around the harbours and Senate Square with its Lutheran Cathedral, we will also see the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall and the Sibelius Monument before visiting the famous Church-in-the-Rock.
In the afternoon there's an optional excursion to the 18th century Suomenlinna Fortress, a cultural gem set on an island. For the final night of our tour there's an optional Finnish dinner at Restaurant Salve.
Overnight: Helsinki | Breakfast
Helsinki
Our tour ends after breakfast today with an included transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single 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 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 Radisson Blu Latvija, Riga
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 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.