Riga: Hill of Crosses & Guided Rundale Palace with Bauska Castle

Riga , Latvia

Riga: Hill of Crosses & Guided Rundale Palace with Bauska Castle

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(18 reviews)

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About this experience

This experience stands out by offering a fully guided day at every main stop, including a professionally guided visit inside Rundale Palace Museum with an official certified palace guide, as required by the museum. Unlike many similar tours, the palace interiors are explored with a live guide rather than audio guides or self-guided visits, ensuring a deeper understanding of the site.

The tour is also distinguished by its smooth and well-organized structure. A lunch stop is pre-arranged by the guide after the palace visit, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics, while still choosing and paying for their own meal.

By combining expert guiding, cultural depth and careful planning, this tour delivers a more informative, comfortable and engaging full-day experience to the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle from Riga.

Available options

Riga: Hill of Crosses & Guided Rundale Palace with Bauska Castle

What's included

Professional English-speaking tour guide

Transportation by air-conditioned bus / minibus / minivan

Wi-Fi on board

Fully guided visit of the medieval part of Bauska Castle, including tower access

Bottled water provided

Fully guided visit inside Rundale Palace Museum with an official certified palace guide

Entrance tickets to Rundale Palace Museum and Bauska Castle

Detailed itinerary

Latvia–Lithuania Border Photo Stop
Short stop at the Latvia–Lithuania border on the way to the Hill of Crosses for photos and a brief explanation by the guide.

Travelers will take part in a guided visit to the Hill of Crosses, learning about the history, religious significance and traditions of this unique pilgrimage site.
After the guided introduction, guests will have approximately one extra hour of free time to explore the area at their own pace, take photos, and — if they wish — visit the nearby Franciscan Monastery, where the chapel is open to visitors.

Travelers will take part in a fully guided visit inside Rundale Palace Museum, led by an official certified palace guide, as required by the palace regulations.
During the visit, guests will explore all exhibition halls open to visitors, including the ceremonial halls, as well as the private apartments of the Duke and the Duchess.
The guide will explain the history of the palace and its interiors, which are primarily decorated in the Rococo style, highlighting the artistic details and life at the ducal court.
This visit is conducted exclusively with a live guide — audio guides or self-guided visits are not used.

A lunch break is organized by the guide after the visit to Rundale Palace.
Travelers will stop at a local restaurant, where they can choose their own meals and pay directly for their lunch.
This break allows guests to relax before continuing with the next part of the tour.

After lunch, travelers will have time to independently explore the French Garden of Rundale Palace.
Guests can walk through the garden at their own pace, enjoy the symmetrical design, take photos and appreciate the landscape as an extension of the palace complex.

Travelers will take part in a fully guided visit of the medieval part of Bauska Castle.
The guide will explain the history of the castle, its strategic importance and medieval life in the region.
Guests will also have the opportunity to climb the castle tower with the guide and enjoy views over the surrounding rivers and landscape.

What's not included

Lunch (the lunch stop is organized, but guests pay for their own meals)

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please bring your walking shoes

Meeting point

Please meet the driver in front of the main entrance of Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms).

About Riga

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, medieval Old Town, and lively cultural scene. With its rich history, beautiful parks, and bustling markets, Riga offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

Top Attractions

Riga Old Town

The heart of Riga, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant squares.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Art Nouveau District

Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau buildings, particularly in the district around Alberta Street. This architectural style is a must-see for visitors.

Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore

Central Market

One of the largest markets in Eastern Europe, the Central Market offers a variety of fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary

Riga Motor Museum

This unique museum showcases a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, providing a fascinating look at the history of transportation in Latvia.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pelēkie zivtiņi

Gray peas with bacon and sausages, a traditional Latvian dish often served with potatoes.

Main Course Contains meat and pork

Rupjmaize

Dark rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine, often served with butter and cheese.

Bread Vegetarian

Skābeņu zupa

Sour rye soup, a traditional Latvian soup made with rye flour, meat, and sour cream.

Soup Contains meat and dairy

Pīrāgi

Small buns filled with bacon or other savory fillings, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Bobsledding in Sigulda Zip-lining in Sigulda Hiking in Kemeri National Park Spa treatments in Jūrmala Sunbathing at Jūrmala Beach Strolling through Riga's parks Visiting museums and historical sites Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The weather is ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Latvian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Riga is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night

Getting there

By air

Riga International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Riga Central Station

By bus

Riga Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and affordable way to get around Riga. The system is well-connected and easy to use.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, eTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Art Nouveau District Spīķeri

Day trips

Jūrmala

25 km from Riga • Full day

Jūrmala is a popular seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches, wooden architecture, and spa facilities.

Sigulda

50 km from Riga • Full day

Sigulda is a picturesque town known for its medieval castle, beautiful nature, and adventure activities.

Cēsis

85 km from Riga • Full day

Cēsis is a charming town known for its medieval castle, beautiful parks, and local crafts.

Festivals

Riga Jurmala Music Festival • May Riga Christmas Market • December Riga City Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the Central Market for fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.
Explore the Art Nouveau District for stunning architecture and unique shops.
Take a day trip to Jūrmala for beautiful beaches and relaxation.
Try traditional Latvian dishes like pelēkie zivtiņi and skābeņu zupa.
Visit Riga's museums and historical sites to learn about the city's rich history.