• Hill of Crosses (Kryžių Kalnas) - Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses stands as a powerful symbol of resistance and a revered pilgrimage destination. Over 100,000 crosses have been placed here, many adorned with rosary beads that gently clink in the wind. This tradition began during the 1831 Uprising and peaked in the 1960s as a protest against the anti-religious Soviet regime. Under the cover of night, locals would secretly add crosses, much to the frustration of their oppressors. Legends abound regarding the Hill of Crosses. Some locals believe the mound hides the remains of 14th-century warriors, while others insist it’s haunted by monks. It’s likely that the hill was once a pre-Christian worship site. Attempts to demolish the hill in the 1960s and ‘70s did not stop locals from placing crosses, despite severe penalties. Today, removing a cross from the site is prohibited, and visitors are welcome to plant their own. Nearby vendors offer simple wooden crucifixes, and visitors can inscribe a prayer or wish on the cross before placing it in the ground.

• Rundale Palace Museum (Rundāles Pils) - Rundale Palace was constructed for the Duke of Courland, Ernst Johann Biron, designed by architect F.B. Rastrelli in two phases: from 1736 to 1740 and from 1764 to 1768. The interiors were largely crafted by sculptor J.M. Graf and painters F. Martini and K. Cuki. The East wing features several public areas open to visitors, including the Golden Hall, the White Hall, and the Large Gallery. The central section houses the Duke’s parlours and private quarters, while the West wing contains the fully restored apartments of the Duchess. The exhibition halls display applied arts, fine arts, and cultural artifacts, and the palace hosts the Early Music Festival and classical music concerts. Guests can also explore the French-style formal park with its rose garden, Green Theatre, decorative parterres, and fountain. During the summer, a Garden Party is held in the park.

12-17 euros per person, credit cards accepted.

• Bauska Castle - Bauska Castle is perched on a scenic hillock nestled between the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers, which run parallel to each other. It comprises two merged castles. The oldest section, now in ruins, dates back to the 15th century Livonian Order. The newer part is a fortified manor house built by the Duke of Courland in the 16th century and remains largely intact. A museum details the complex history of the castle and the region. In the 18th century, an Italian named Magno Cavala arrived in Bauska seeking a new business opportunity. Known as a Casanova and a conman, he began bottling water from the confluence of the two rivers near the castle, claiming it was a potent love potion, and profited by deceiving the local townspeople.

5-9 euros per person, credit card payments accepted.

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• English speaking driver
• Entrance fee - Hill of Crosses entrance is free of charge
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Museum entrance tickets
• Gratuities
• Entrance fees
• Entrance fees

Experience history firsthand with this full-day excursion to the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, along with a visit to a renowned Latvian castle and palace. Located just a two-hour drive from Riga, this trip includes stops at the Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle. Our driver will recommend the best local restaurants for lunch if desired.

Please be aware that this day trip does not include a licensed guide service. Our English-speaking driver will provide basic information, answer your questions, guide you to the ticket offices, and suggest the best local dining options for lunch. If a licensed guide is preferred, arrangements can be made at an additional cost at the sites we will be visiting. Please inform us in advance if this service is required so we can make the necessary bookings.

Remember to check the availability of the sites you wish to visit, as some may not operate daily during the winter months. Our drivers will suggest alternative sites to ensure a full day of exploration if any locations are closed.

• Free bottled water
• Total Duration for the tour includes travel time in between each leg of the tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.