baltic travel riga

Baltic Traveler

• Tour Offers

Europes hidden gems!

Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia

Our travel company is based in geographic center of Baltic countries - Riga, Latvia. With our extensive local knowledge we offer our affordable travel experience to tourists from all over the world from America to Asia and Australia. We welcome everybody with open hart and will try our best bringing you the great and unforgettable journey over our small but so charming counties and cultures. Welcome to Baltic Traveler!

Lets start to prepare for your travel!

Affordable traveling in europe 

Pay only for what you get. we'll help to skip agecie commissions and extra charges.

We use our own drivers and fleet of comfortable vehicles, no middleman, only direct local company service. You can choose one of our standard private tour offers and we can start to build it from there. Our managers will advice best flights to get you here and best local hotels so you can book the flights and hotels your self and save large part of money that usual travel agencies add to the total cost. We will assist and provide all details. Our company will charge only for our services provided here in Baltic countries. Check our Tour Offers and you will see how much more affordable they are comparing to all inclusive offers. We will be glad to customise one of our tours to suit your needs or we can assemble tailored tour if you have already places in mind that you wish to visit and want to spend such number of days. Just let us know your preferances and travel pase so we can suit your needs exactly.

Explore hidden gem of Europe!

Tours for private groups

Our travel company will help you with extensive planning of your Baltic countries trip. We will provide great guides for sightseeing in capitals Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn. And our excellent English speaking drivers will do their best to show you places off the beaten path, local restaurants, breweries and will make you safe on the road between your hotel stays.

UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEYS

See all three Baltic countries Latvia Lithuania and Estonia in one journey. We will make your travel as affordable as possible as we do not charge any commissions on your flights or hotel stays. You will pay only for our direct service of transportation over your selected route and excellent service of our drivers and guides. During the planning stage of your travel we will advice best flight routes and hotels so you can book them directly and skip unnecessary costs. Just contact us and lets start to plan your journey together!

Great scenery and historic cities will bring you great memories! Let us know if you are keen photographer.

You will be amazed by high quality of local organic food in restaurants and food markets! 

Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn airports are easly acessable via all main European hubs.

We have latest insight on local hotels and will advice best ones at your choice of price level.

Please contact us for questions and quotes. We will get back to you as soon as possible!

Our social networks

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +371 29722770

Hospitalu iela 1-64, Riga, Latvia

© 2021 baltictraveler.com

Tailored Travel Experiences

The Baltic States, Scandinavia & Eastern Europe

BALTIC HOLIDAYS The Original Baltic Travel Company

We create unique tailored travel experiences to the Baltic States, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. We specialise in private tours and tailor-made holidays to all our destinations and customise itineraries to suit you and yours.

Our Top Tours

Tailor a tour to suit you

Baltic Christmas Markets Group Tour 2024

Visiting Vilnius Riga Tallinn Baltic States

From €789 pp

Three Christmas Markets in One Trip! Our Christmas Markets Baltic Tour visits Vilnius, Riga & Tallinn in their winter splendour with delightful old town Christmas markets. A relaxing mix of guided tours, comfortable transfers and free time to explore.

Nordic Capitals Private Tour

Visiting Copenhagen Oslo Stockholm Helsinki

From €2,800 pp

A welcome tour of the Nordic capitals of Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm & Helsinki. Enjoy two nights in each city, with a private walking tour to get you acquainted on your first day in each capital. Tailored to suit you. Can be extended to include a Norway in a Nutshell tour to see the fjords or combined with a Baltic Capitals tour.

Baltic Capitals Private Tour

From €1,845 pp

Our MUCH LOVED private tour of the Baltic Capitals - Vilnius, Riga & Tallinn. Three nights in each old town, staying in handpicked hotels and the perfect mix of private guided tours and transfers, with independent time to explore & enjoy.

Baltic Capitals New Year Group Tour 2024

From €945 pp

Welcome the New Year 2025 in Riga on our Baltic Highlights New Year special! Visit Vilnius, Riga & Tallinn on this 7 night group tour. Relax and enjoy the festivities while our tour guide shows you the best of Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia!

Your Tour With Our Expert Guidance

Combining the best of local knowledge and experience with excellent customer service we offer personal recommendations and anecdotes that really bring your tour to life. Come and explore with us.

Where Do You Want To Go?

Pick a country and let us guide you

Private Tours

Our private tours are finely crafted itineraries designed exclusively for you and tailored to suit your dates, flights, interests, pace and budget.

Group Tours

Browse our escorted group tours of the Baltic States, Scandinavia & Eastern Europe – we’ve handpicked the best for you.

Short Break

City, spa, nature & culture – unique short breaks

Independent exploring with our local expertise & support

Tailor-Made

Create your unique tour here

We love to share feedback from our clients, it makes us very proud of our tours and team… you can also check out our reviews on TripAdvisor where our customers have given us a 5 star excellent TripAdvisor rating!

Tailor-made Baltic tour, Mr Freston

I have traveled the world and they are without doubt the finest tour company I have ever encountered. The staff is terrific and great fun to work with. They go way out of their way to create a flawless experience. If you want to tour the Baltic States, make sure your first call is to Baltic Holidays!

Hemsley group, Tailor made self-drive tour of the Baltics

Thank you so much for putting together a top-notch experience. The itinerary was spot on, there was something fantastic to see on the days we were on the move and we never felt the journeys were too long. Thank you for one of the best holidays we have ever had (and we have had a few!)

The Baltic Holidays Experience

Since 1999 we have worked hard to become the leading specialists in tailor-made travel and customized tours to Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and throughout Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. We use our passion and knowledge to create the perfect trip for you and deliver it with excellent customer service and the warmest of welcomes.

Want To Be The First To Know?

Get inspired and start planning your trip, sign up to our newsletter for tour & destination news.

Baltics Travel Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania (+ Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 8, 2024

Are you thinking of traveling to the Baltics, want to see all three countries – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – but are not sure how to plan your itinerary? Do you want to know how much time to spend in each country and what not to miss? This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Baltic region – find out!

In this article, we share a two-week Baltics trip itinerary that allows you to see the highlights of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. You will get to explore a good mixture of vibrant cities and rural areas, go hiking, relax by the beach and discover the food scene of each country.

This Baltics trip includes the famous capital cities Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, where you discover a bustling lifestyle and admire charming historic city centers and beautiful architecture. In addition, it also takes you to the lesser-known areas of each country. You get to spend two nights on Saaremaa, Estonia’s biggest island, explore the castles of Sigulda, Latvia, and climb the impressive sand dunes in the Curonian Spit in Lithuania .

Even though two weeks are not enough time to see everything the Baltics have to offer, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time and be sure that you don’t miss any of the ‘musts’.

Good to know: The best way to visit the Baltics is by renting a car and doing a self-drive road trip . But this trip is also doable without a car . There are excellent bus/train connections between the main towns (and buses are reliable and comfortable) and you can also take day tours from the capital cities.

This itinerary is structured as a self-drive Baltics road trip but it also includes all the tips and suggestions for those who rather use public transport. Take a look!

Baltics Travel Itinerary – OVERVIEW:

Days 1-2: tallinn, estonia.

• Days 3-4: Kuressaare, Estonia
• Day 5: Tartu, Estonia

Day 6: Cēsis, Latvia

• Day 7: Sigulda, Latvia
• Days 8-9: Riga, Latvia
• Day 10: Hill of Crosses & Klaipeda, Lithuania
• Day 11: Day trip to Curonian Spit, Lithuania
• Day 12: Kaunas, Lithuania
• Day 13: Trakai & Vilnius, Lithuania
• Day 14: Vilnius, Lithuania
• Assitional suggestions for a longer trip
• Practical info & tips

Good to know: This Baltics travel itinerary starts in Tallinn, Estonia, and ends in Vilnius, Lithuania, but you can easily do it the other way around – from Vilnius to Tallinn. There is really not much difference which way you travel, and both cities have very good flight connections to various European countries.

Here’s our suggested Baltics travel itinerary:

Start your Baltics trip in Tallinn. Estonia’s capital is famous for its medieval Old Town, and during the next two days, you’ll have the chance to wander through narrow cobblestone alleys, climb the city walls and sample Estonian food.

Here are some  highlights of Tallinn  you should check out:

Town Hall Square

While walking through the Old Town, you will eventually end up at Town Hall Square . Here, you can discover lots of traditional old houses and a great atmosphere.

At one end of Town Hall Square, you can see the City Hall . In summer, you have the chance to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy the view. This is also the perfect place if you want to try Estonian food. Head to the III Draakon, a tavern in the town hall building, where you can sample elk soup, elk pastries, or lingonberry juice.

Almost opposite the town hall, you can find the Raeapteek . The Town Council Pharmacy is the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Europe. If you go inside, you can visit a small exhibition or try claret, a wine produced here since 1467.

Toompea Hill

If you want to see Tallinn from above, you should head to Toompea Hill . Up here, you can find multiple viewing platforms that will offer fantastic views of the Old Town’s red roofs.

The Kohtuotsa lookout is the most famous platform, but it can get very busy. If you want to avoid the crowds, head to the Patkuli viewing platform instead, where you’ll run into fewer tourists. On clear days, you can even see the Baltic Sea from up here.

While up on Toompea Hill, make sure to check out the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral . The Russian Orthodox Cathedral is one of Tallinn’s most beautiful churches.

Tallinn’s City Walls

Some parts of the city wall that once surrounded all of Tallinn are still intact, and you have the opportunity to climb them in multiple places.

The first entrance is at Hellemann Tower . Here, you can walk on a piece of wall that is around 200 meters long. You have the chance to climb up into the watchtowers, too, to enjoy a very different viewpoint compared to Toompea Hill.

Up on Toompea Hill, you can find Kiek in de Kök Tower . Up here, you can also get on top of the city wall, and you can even enjoy a drink in the cafe on the wall. Your entrance ticket also gives you access to the tower. On each of the six floors, you can visit an exhibition about Tallinn, its city wall, and its history.

Additional recommendations

If you would like to learn more about the city, you can opt for this popular private walking tour with a local .

If you want to get the most of your stay and see more of Estonia, consider taking a half-day trip to Jägala Waterfall and Harju County . This area is east of Tallinn and you won’t be passing here when continuing your trip.

Where to Stay in Tallinn

For the best experience, stay in the old city center. There are many nice accommodations for all budgets here. We recommend Hestia Hotel Kentmanni.

Days 3-4: Kuressaare

If you are planning a self-drive road trip through the Baltics, it’s best to rent a car from this day on . We use and recommend this website for some of the best deals for car rental.

After leaving the city, travel to Saaremaa, Estonia’s biggest island . The journey takes around 4 hours, including a half-hour ferry ride. If you are driving, make sure to arrive at the Virtsu ferry port at least 15 minutes before departure (if you take a bus, you don’t have to worry about that). Here you can find the ferry schedule and more practical info (you need a ferry from Virtsu to Kuivatsu).

Without a car: There are regular bus connections between Tallinn and Kuressaare, the biggest town on Saaremaa.

On Saaremaa Island, base yourself in Kuressaare , where you can find most of the island’s attractions. Make sure to stroll through the Old Town to discover the historic buildings and traditional architecture.

Afterwards, head to the Kuressaare Episcopal Castle . The castle dates back to the 14th century, and it takes at least an hour or two to explore the exhibitions inside. Be careful to follow the arrows, as it’s easy to get lost in the maze of corridors. During your visit, you have the chance of climbing the towers. From up there, you have a fantastic view of the star-shaped moat that surrounds the fortifications.

Another highlight of Saaremaa are the Kaali Meteor Craters , which you can visit in the village of Kaali. Scientists believe that the impact happened anywhere between 6,400 and 400 BCE, and it had the same explosive force as the Hiroshima bomb blast. All trees in a radius of six kilometers burned.

If you’d rather take it slow, head to the beach or find a spa to relax. Kuressaare is famous for its spas, and many Estonians come here to unwind for a few days. So why not join them and experience some traditional Estonian sauna culture!

Where to Stay in Kuressaare

There is a big choice of accommodations in Kuressaare, but since it’s a popular resort town, be sure to book well in advance, especially if traveling during summer or popular holidays. We recommend Johan Design & SPA Hotel , or – on a slightly higher budget Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa .

Day 5: Tartu

Today, you have a long drive ahead of you. It takes almost 6 hours to get to Tartu from Kuresaare by car and a little longer if you use public transport. Therefore, make sure to leave Kuressaare as early as possible, so you can enjoy the afternoon in Tartu.

Tartu is a cute town in Southern Estonia that is famous for its university. While here, check out the University Museums. On top of Toome Hill, you can find the University of Tartu Museum as well as the Old Observatory . Both are worth visiting, but if you only have time for one, head to the Observatory.

In the 19th century, Friedrich Georg Wilhelm von Struve measured the length of a meridian and eventually became the first person to accurately determine the shape and size of Earth. He conducted much of his work from this observatory, which is why it is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the observatory, you can learn more about Struve’s work and see astronomical instruments from that time period.

While in Tartu, make sure to go for a walk through the Old Town. Town Hall Square is famous for its Kissing Students fountain, and you can discover many historic buildings around the square. Take some time to walk through the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture of Tartu. Be sure to check out the restored ruins of the Tartu Cathedral (Toomkirik). You can also climb the tower for some nice views over the city.

TIP: If you have a car and some time to spare, you could also visit Alatskivi Castle about 30-40 minutes drive north of Tartu. But if you only have half a day in the city, this will likely be too much.

Where to Stay in Tartu

Tartu is a popular tourist destination and you’ll have no trouble finding good accommodation at reasonable prices. We recommend Lydia Hotel , however, their parking is quite expensive since it’s in the heart of the city. A nice alternative (still very good location) if visiting by car is Art Hotel Pallas by Tartuhotels .

In the morning, drive from Tartu to Cesis in Latvia. The drive is about 2.5 hours and if you leave early enough, you have plenty of time to explore Cesis on this day.

Without a car: If you are traveling without a car, it’s easier to take a bus from Tartu to Riga, stay in Riga for 3 or 4 nights in total, and make day trips from there to Cesis and to Sigulda. There are also tours that visit these places from Riga in one day .

Cesis is a cute medieval town known for its two castles. You can get a combination ticket that includes entrance to both the Medieval Castle and the museum in the New Castle . As there are no electric lights in the old castle, you will need to carry a lantern. Exploring the ruins with a candle in your hand is an incredible experience you’ll remember for a long time.

After visiting both castles, take some time to stroll through Castle Park . At the edge of the park, you can see the remains of the oldest brewery in Northern Europe . Cesus Ale, the owner, has since moved the beer production to a more modern building on the outskirts of Cesis, but you can still see the old brewery.

Where to Stay

You could stay in Cesis for a night, but we suggest driving to Sigulda – the next town on this itinerary, about 30 minutes drive further. There is a bigger accommodation choice in Sigulda and much nicer hotels and you could stay here for two nights. We recommend Hotel Sigulda – it’s a nice hotel with great facilities, easy parking, and they have a very good restaurant.

Good to know: If you are really in a hurry, you could see just the main highlights of Cesis and Sigulda on the same day.

Day 7: Sigulda

Today, spend a day in one of Latvia’s most beautiful destinations – Sigulda in the Gauja National Park . Sigulda has multiple sights and attractions to keep you busy all day. You can find several castles in the area, which are all different and exciting to visit.

If you visit just one castle in Sigulda, make it Turaida Castle , a red-brick castle a few kilometers away from town. It houses a museum, and it’s part of the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you can also visit traditional houses from the area. This is the most-visited museum in Latvia!

Sigulda Medieval Castle (Castle Of The Livonian Order in Sigulda) is also nice to see. You can climb to the top of the Northern Tower from where you have a fantastic view of the valley. Just next to it, you can see the recently renovated Sigulda New Castle (Siguldas Jaunā pils) which used to serve as a city council and is now a museum.

Another place worth checking out is Krimulda Medieval Castle , which is the ruins of the 13th castle. Here, you’ll also find the beautiful viewpoint ‘Bellevue’, with great views of the bends of the Gauja River. Please note that this castle ruin is not to be confused with Krimulda Manor , which is a sort of rehabilitation center/ hotel.

TIP: One of the best ways to see the main castles is to go for a hike, from Sigulda Medieval Castle to Krimulda Castle (take the cable car to cross the valley) and then onwards to Turaida Castle. Don’t miss Gutmanis Cave , which you can find between Krimulda and Turaida. Locals have left graffiti here for centuries, and the oldest inscriptions date back to the 17th century.

If you want to take it easy, stay in the same hotel in Sigulda as the previous night. As already said, Hotel Sigulda is one of the best options here. Alternatively, you could continue to Riga already, which is about a 1-hour drive.

Days 8-9: Riga

In the morning, drive to Riga (about a 1-hour drive). With its location in the center of the country, Riga is also the perfect base for day trips to places like Cesis and Sigulda mentioned above. As already mentioned, if you are traveling without a car, it’s best to come here from Tartu (so on day 6 of this itinerary). In that case, stay in the city for 3-4 nights and make day trips either by public transport or by taking tours.

For the next two days, you have the chance of  exploring Riga . Be sure not to miss the following highlights:

Riga Old Town

It’s easy to get lost in Riga’s cobblestone streets and to spend hours wandering through the Old Town . Along your way, you should pass the Three  Brothers , a famous landmark in the city. All three houses belonged to men from the same family but date back to different time periods, so this is a fantastic place to see how architecture in Riga evolved over the centuries.

If you want to see the Old Town from above, stop by St Peter’s Church . The tower rises high above the houses, so from its top, you have a fantastic view of Riga.

House of the Blackheads

If you only visit one museum in Riga, it should be the House of the Blackheads . You’ll notice the extensively decorated building while walking through the Old Town, and if you go inside, you can learn more about the Brotherhood of the Blackheads.

This guild was an organization of merchants and craftsmen, and in Latvia, they came together in the House of the Blackheads for meetings and social gatherings. They even erected the first Christmas Tree in Europe, though it is unclear if it was in Riga or Tallinn.

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

If you want to see a different side of Latvia, head to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia , which you can find on the outskirts of Riga. Buses 1, 28, or 19 can take you here if you don’t have a car, and you’ll have the chance of seeing more than 100 traditional buildings from all over the country.

The museum grouped these houses by region, and you’ll be surprised to learn how different building styles and rural life were, depending on the area. Don’t miss the giant windmill in the middle of the park, and make sure to go inside the houses. Some are open, and in summer, you might see weavers and blacksmiths perform their craft.

Practical information: The museum is open the whole year round, but opening days and times vary per season. Check their website for more information. You could easily spend an entire day here. As a minimum, count half a day.

Where to Stay in Riga

Riga is a big city and there is no shortage of accommodations for all budgets . For the best experience, we recommend staying close to the city center. If you are traveling by car, be sure to check that the hotel has parking available! We recommend Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel .

Day 10: Hill of Crosses & Klaipėda, Lithuania

After leaving Riga, cross the border to Lithuania and head to Klaipeda. The drive is about 4 hours, and you can stop at the famous Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai on your way. It’s conveniently located for this itinerary, about 2 hours drive from Riga and about the same from Klaipeda, and a visit here doesn’t require more than half an hour. Still, be sure to leave Riga early so that you can explore Klaipeda in the afternoon.

Without a car: If you are traveling by bus, there are direct bus connections from Riga to Klaipeda, and the trip takes around 4-5 hours. It will be difficult to visit the Hill of Crosses on this day, but you may still be able to come here on your way from Klaipėda to Vilnius two days later. See day 12 of this itinerary for more details.

The Hill of Crosses is one of the most unique places in Lithuania, and you can see hundreds of thousands of crosses on this hill. The sight is almost unreal, and as you walk around, you will notice hundreds of small crosses wedged into the ground between the larger ones. Here you can find our complete guide to visiting the Hill of Crosses .

After spending time at the Hill of Crosses, continue to Klaipeda . You should arrive in the early afternoon, so still plenty of time to explore the city. While Klaipeda is Lithuania’s third-largest city, its historic center isn’t that big and you can see all the musts in half a day.

When you stroll through the Old Town of Klaipeda , you will notice that the architecture is different from anything else you’ve seen in the Baltics before, and some of it even looks German. That’s because the area once belonged to Germany, and you can still see the influence in architecture today.

Make sure to visit the History Museum of Lithuania Minor if you want to learn more about the history of the region. Don’t miss Theatre Square and be sure to check out the little hidden gem Fredericho Passage , where you can also find a restaurant serving local dishes.

Afterwards, head down to the riverside and to the harbor. The waterfront is one of the most pleasant areas to go for a walk in Klaipeda, especially in summer. During the warmer months, you can also rent kayaks or pedal boats to explore the city from a different angle.

Where to Stay in Klaipeda

Klaipeda is a harbor town and so it’s nice if you can stay close to the water. We recommend either Old Mill Hotel or Michaelson Boutique Hotel – both near each other and both excellent choices, in beautiful historic buildings. There is big public parking just nearby (the fees aren’t high) and the Old Town is within walking distance. Stay here for two nights.

Day 11: Day trip to the Curonian Spit

Today, take a day trip to one of the most beautiful places in the Baltics, the Curonian Spit . This 98km-long narrow piece of land perched between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea is a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Curonian Spit is famous for its wandering sand dunes. The biggest dune that you can climb is Parnidis Dune, just next to Nida. From here, you can see the lagoon on one side and the Baltic Sea on the other side. It might not look like it, but Parnidis is a wandering dune that moves a few centimeters every year. Over the past centuries, these dunes have even swallowed a few villages!

During your day trip, visit the nicest dunes and villages of the region, and be sure to go for a walk around Nida, the main town of the Curonian Spit. Here, you can see many traditional fishermen’s houses, several museums, and a beautiful waterfront promenade. For more information, please see our complete guide to the best things to do in Nida .

But there’s much more to see in the beautiful Curonian Spit National Park than just its biggest town! So if you are self-driving, check out our complete guide to the Curonian Spit in Lithuania . It also has all the details on how to get there by car.

Without a car: Curonian Spit is best explored by car since there are many beautiful places scattered all over the region. If you don’t have a car, you can best opt for an organized tour – see this private day tour from Klaipeda. Alternatively, take a passenger ferry from the pier north of the city center (Senoji Perkėla), and once you reach the other side, you can take a bus to Nida. Nida is a nice day trip in itself, but you won’t be able to see the rest of the area if you take a bus.

Day 12: Kaunas

Today, leave Klaipeda and head to Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas. If you are driving, it’s a long but easy drive on a highway and takes about 2.5-3 hours, leaving you plenty of time to explore Kaunas.

Without a car: If you are traveling through the Baltics by public transport, it’s easier to skip Kaunas and take a train from Klaipeda directly to Vilnius (with a stop in Šiauliai for a visit to the Hill of Crosses). In that case, take a train to Šiauliai and book a private tour to the Hill of Crosses (they can pick you up at the train station and the hours are flexible). Afterwards, continue your trip to Vilnius by train. If you decide to go to Kaunas from Klaipeda and skip the Hill of Crosses, then take a bus to Kaunas – it’s much faster than by train.

There is enough to see and do in Kaunas to fill a few days, so you could easily add a night here if you have more time. But you can get a taste of the city and see some of the main highlights in half a day as well.

The best way to explore Kaunas on a short visit is by taking a walk through its main pedestrian streets that run through the entire city center – from Kaunas Castle and Cathedral in the Old Town via Vilniaus Street and all the way to St. Michael the Archangel’s Church at the far eastern end of Laisvės alėja (Freedom Avenue). If you have the time to visit one museum, check out the M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art . If you are looking for something more unique that you won’t find anywhere else, then don’t miss the Devils’ Museum .

Where to Stay in Kaunas

We recommend staying in the city center, close to the above-mentioned pedestrian streets. That way, you can leave your car at the hotel and explore Kaunas on foot. Check out BEST WESTERN Santakos Hotel – it’s right in the middle between the Old Town and the popular pedestrian avenue Laisvės alėja and has free private parking. Here you can find more hotels and accommodations in Kaunas .

Day 13: Trakai & Vilnius

With two weeks in the Baltics, you’ll have to make some tough choices and skip some places, so if you want to take it easy, today, we recommend that you drive to Trakai from Kaunas, and then head to Vilnius in the late afternoon.

However, if you have an entire next day to explore Vilnius and so if you find a day in the city sufficient, then you may want to visit a few other nice places between Kaunas and Vilnius. In that case, you could also visit Pažaislis Monastery and Lithuanian Folk Museum in Rumšiškės .

Both these places are just a small detour from the Kaunas – Vilnius highway and both are well worth your time. But don’t try to squeeze too much in a day or you won’t have much time to actually enjoy it.

Without a car: Take a train from Kaunas to Vilnius and spend a day in Vilnius. You can take a half-day tour to Trakai the next day. In summer, you can also opt for a full-day tour from Vilnius that visits the castle and includes canoeing on the lakes around it.

Anyway, if you are going from Kaunas to Trakai, it’s an easy drive, mostly on the highway, and it takes a bit over 1 hour. From there, it’s just a short drive to Vilnius (but can take an hour if traffic is busy), so you can spend as much time in Trakai as you like. This town is famous for its island castle, one of the must-see places in Lithuania.

Trakai Castle dates back to the 14th century, a time when Trakai was an important town in Lithuania, and – for a few years – even the capital city. The Grand Duke of Lithuania often received important visitors here. The Castle was recently restored and is the most impressive castle you can visit in Lithuania these days. Its location on an island, surrounded by lakes and forests, makes it even more special. And don’t worry, you won’t have to swim to the island – there is a nice pedestrian bridge connecting it to town.

Inside the Castle, you can visit an exhibition about the history of Trakai, and you also have the chance to learn about the Karaites, a Turkic Jewish minority that lives in the area. Lithuanians call them Karaimai .

And speaking of them, when in Trakai, be sure to try Kybyns (LT: kibinai ), traditional Lithuanian food of the Karaite ethnic minority. You can find them at most of the local restaurants in Trakai. This is the best place in Lithuania to try this traditional meat-and-onion pastry. You may also find it in Vilnius and a few other places in the region, but they are nowhere as good as in Trakai.

If the weather is nice, take a boat tour on the lake to see the castle from a different perspective. Afterwards, head to Vilnius, walk around the Old Town, and end your day with some typical Lithuanian food.

Day 14: Vilnius

Today, it’s time to explore Vilnius. Lithuania’s capital city has a lot to offer, but if you have just a day, be sure not to miss the following places:

Walk around the Old Town

Walking through the Old Town of Vilnius is the best way to get to know the city. It has such a great atmosphere and you’ll find something nice behind every corner.

Don’t miss the Town Hall Square ( Rotušės aikštė ), Vilnius University , Presidential Palace , and one of the must-see streets in Vilnius – Castle Street ( Pilies gatvė ). Also worth visiting is Literature Street ( Literatų gatvė ). This picturesque street is lined with plaques detailing names of authors who have either lived in Vilnius or written about the city.

Another must-see is the Gate of Dawn , a city gate that dates back to 1522 and was once part of the city wall. Inside, you’ll find a religious artifact, an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy, which still attracts pilgrims today.

Stiklių Street , in the vicinity of the Restaurant Lokys, is also worth passing by. They usually have some nice decorations hanging above the street and it’s always worth seeing what kind of creations they come up with next. And the restaurant is very good too!

There are also lots of beautiful churches in the Old Town of Vilnius. They say there are 28 churches just in the Old Town… If you visit just one of them, don’t miss St. Anne’s Church – it’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Cathedral Square, Gediminas Castle & Neris River

Cathedral Square is home to Vilnius Cathedral. With its many columns and a white Bell Tower , this building is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Just next to it, you’ll find one of the best museums in Vilnius – the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania . If you have at least an hour to spare, definitely check it out. The Virtual Reality 3D experience is so well done and gives you a good introduction to the history of Vilnius.

Behind the Cathedral, you’ll see a hill with a tower on top. Head up there to discover Gediminas Castle Tower and to enjoy the fantastic view of Vilnius. You can walk up the hill or take a funicular which can be found on the other side of the hill, on the riverside. And once you are here, be sure to take a walk along the river.

Gediminas Avenue & Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

Gediminas Avenue (Gedimino Prospektas) is one the main streets of Vilnius. This is the place where you’ll find many shops, restaurants, theaters, etc.

Be sure to walk at least a part of this street, up to Lukiškės Square, the largest square in Vilnius. Here, you’ll also find the former KGB building, now the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights .

It’s a very interesting and eye-opening place where you can learn more about the way the Soviets treated innocent people. It will surely help you to better understand the not-so-distant history of Lithuania and the other Baltic States.

Republic of Užupis

One of the most curious neighborhoods to visit in Vilnius is Užupis (literal translation “behind the river”).

This “republic” declared its independence in 1998 as a joke by local artists. Uzupis has its own parliament, border post (bring your passport if you would like a stamp), and even a constitution. Check out the Angel of Uzupis, a statue that represents the freedom of art and expression.

While nobody recognizes the independence of Uzupis, the neighborhood is a great place to discover art galleries and cafes. As you walk around, you can also find impressive street art, so keep your eyes open and don’t forget to glance into the small alleys and sidestreets.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

There are lots of nice hotels and accommodations in Vilnius. Many people like to stay in the Old Town and if you already returned your rental car, it can be a good option. In any case, be sure to look for a hotel that has parking (or public parking nearby).

Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva is a nice modern hotel by the river, on the other side from the Old Town, but you can easily get everywhere via a pedestrian bridge from here. It will also be easier to park here.

If you rather stay in the Old Town, take a look at NARUTIS Hotel . It’s a great choice in the heart of the city and within short walking distance to everything. They also have free parking and an indoor pool. And, of course, there are many other options all over the city center, for all budgets.

If you have a few more days in the Baltics…

Even though this itinerary is already packed with things to do in the Baltics, you can easily spend more time in the region – there are so many other nice places to see. If you have a few extra days, you can distribute them between the countries however you wish, and here are some additional suggestions:

• In Estonia, consider visiting Pärnu, a relaxed beachside town, or head to Lahemaa National Park to go hiking for a day.
• In Latvia, you could visit the seaside in Jurmala or go on a day trip to Rundale Palace.
• In Lithuania, you could stay longer on the Curonian Spit, add a day in Kaunas, and also an extra day in Vilnius.

Map of this Baltic States Itinerary

To help you plan your trip to the Baltics, we created a map indicating all the main places that we recommend visiting in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This map is just an overview and doesn’t contain all the details, but it will give you a better idea of where everything is and how you could adjust this itinerary if you have less or more time.

You can click on the picture below and see this map on Google Maps. The entire Baltic States road trip – as it is suggested in our itinerary and shown on the map – is about 1500 km over 14 days.

Some Practical Info for Planning Your Trip

Best time to visit.

The best time to visit the Baltics is in the summer. The weather is generally very nice, the days are long, and there are lots of events and celebrations. As a downside, it’s much busier in June, July, and August than the rest of the year and accommodation prices at the popular vacation destinations soar. For the best experience and fewer crowds, plan a trip to the Baltic states in May or in September.

The Baltics in the winter

If you want to avoid the crowds altogether, you can also travel to the Baltics in autumn or in winter. In some of the stops on this itinerary, you will barely see other travelers at all, and with a bit of luck, you’ll experience snow. However, if you are planning a self-drive Baltics road trip, don’t visit in winter if you are not used to driving in winter conditions.

If you are planning a trip in winter, then consider visiting in December. Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn host wonderful Christmas markets! So if you visit in the winter, you’ll enjoy a great Christmas atmosphere and much fewer people than at the most famous Christmas markets in Western Europe… Here you can read more about the Christmas Market in Vilnius, Lithuania – they have the most original Christmas Trees every year.

Renting a car vs. public transport

You can easily visit the Baltic states by car. The roads and infrastructure are good and comparable to any other EU country. Traffic can get very busy around the biggest cities and at the seaside on summer weekends, but apart from that, driving in the Baltics is quite relaxed. Just be sure to follow speed limits and other traffic rules since police controls are frequent.

If you prefer not to drive, you can also visit all three Baltic countries by public transport. There are good bus connections between all major cities, so if you are mostly interested in visiting the main towns, you can easily do that without a car as well. That being said, if you want to explore the Baltics a bit deeper, it’s definitely better to rent a car.

Is it safe to travel to the Baltics?

Yes, traveling in the Baltics is safe and very comparable to the rest of the EU. In fact, you’ll likely feel safer walking around Vilnius or Riga at night than you would in London, Paris, or Brussels… Just as everywhere, use common sense, but in general, there’s nothing to worry about. If you are traveling to the Baltics in winter, you may encounter ice on the roads and on the pavements, so be careful.

Which is the best Baltic state to visit?

It’s hard to compare three countries of the Baltics and say that one or the other is better. They are all different and each is worth a visit, and if you follow this itinerary, you can get a taste of all three countries and decide for yourself. That being said, if you have the time to visit just one country, then go to Lithuania. It has everything – nice towns with a great atmosphere, interesting museums and lots of cultural events, stunning nature, friendly people, and delicious Lithuanian food . And yes, I’m biased since Lithuania is my home country, but I haven’t met one single person who didn’t love it!

READ ALSO: Best places to see in Lithuania

So, this is our suggested Baltics itinerary for two weeks. We hope that this inspired you to visit this beautiful and still very little-discovered region in Eastern Europe. Have a great trip!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Image credits: personal collection, Toptravelsights.com , raigvi/Shutterstock.com, Wide Wings/Shutterstock.com, Chamille White/Shutterstock.com, and Depositphotos.com.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Thursday 8th of August 2024

Can you rent a car in Estonia and drop it off in Lithuanian. I want to do a trip for 10 days and visit the three countries. Thanks in advance. Great article by the way

Hi Martin, yes, several car rental providers have this option so you can rent a car in one country and drop it off in another one. Please take a look here - insert the pick-up location, click on the "Drop car off at different location", choose your travel dates, and you will see what's available. I just checked random dates for next week, pick-up in Tallinn airport, drop off in Vilnius airportt, and found plenty of cars in all price ranges.

Friday 23rd of June 2023

My friend and I are planning to visit the three Baltic states in September. around 15 days. Your guidance is the best. I think we will follow your suggestions. We plan to hire a car. Any helpful hints?

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi Philip, that's a very general question ;). You can find all the helpful hints in our article already. Just one thing - book your car asap and I also recommend booking accommodations in advance as well. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

Thanks for the invaluable guidance. Is March a good time to visit? Will sights and restaurants be opened? Sometimes it is good to have more people around to soak up the culture of the place.

Hi, you can really visit the Baltics at any time of the year. And yes, everything will be open as usual, except in the smaller seaside villages. In the bigger cities and towns, it's always lively, and everything is open. There are also lots of concerts, theater performances, etc. in the winter months. As for the weather in March, it's more difficult to predict. It can still be quite wintery (especially in the north), or you may get lucky and it will be warmer and a bit spring-like already. Be sure to check the weather forecast a few days before you go. In general, at this time of the year, you have to be prepared for winter conditions. Have a great trip!

Thursday 5th of January 2023

Looking to do a similar trip! Wouldn't a one way car rental be pretty astronomical? I think we need to find a way to make it a loop if we are gonna rent a car. :-/

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Hi, it really depends and a one-way rental is not always more expensive. It's quite common for travelers to start in one Baltic State and end in the other, so many car rental companies are offering quite normal prices for one-way rentals. But you'd have to check what cars/prices are available for your travel dates and decide based on that. We're just back from a trip where we rented a car with a drop-off a few thousand kilometers away and they didn't even charge us any one-way fees. So you never know until you check. Good luck!

Monday 13th of June 2022

What an amazing trip plan!! I was planning a trip just like this but was a bit apprehensive given the war in Ukraine and proximity of Baltics to Russia. I see this was updated in May 2022. Do you know if there are any complications of border crossings, etc. due to the war. Looks TRULY amazing!

Tuesday 14th of June 2022

@Jurga, yes thank you!! Just booked my flight and will visit both. I plan on following this itinerary so many thanks!!

Hi Kari, my entire family lives in Lithuania and we are also visiting there soon, and I see no reason not to travel to the Baltics at the moment. Life is as usual everywhere there and if you just stay in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, I don't expect any issues. These are all EU countries so there are no border controls in between them. And they are also all NATO countries, so let's hope that's sufficient to keep things stable. For the rest, nobody can ever guarantee anything, but that is no different in the Baltics than anywhere else really. Hope this helps.

The Ultimate Baltic Road Trip Itinerary (2024)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

A road trip through the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia was high on our travel wish list and, as soon as we had the chance, we jumped at the possibility to explore three very different countries. After weeks of planning our Baltic road trip itinerary, we finally settled on a route which took us from Riga to Kaunas to Vilnius to Tallinn and finally back to Riga with some bonus stops in between! From old towns to haunting war memorials and from stunning beaches to enchanting forests we were blown away by the variety of sights and scenery on our drive through the Baltic states. For any of you planning a Baltic road trip we’ve shared our ultimate itinerary below.

Table of Contents

Baltic Road Trip Itinerary Route

Any Baltic road trip itinerary should include the main cities of Riga, Kaunas, Vilnius and Tallinn but we’ve included some optional stops that we loved and would recommend if you have some extra days.

Our Route: Riga – Kaunas – Vilnius – Sigulda – Tallinn – Jurmala – Riga

Tips for Baltic road trip:  The Curonian Split, approximately 3 hours west of Kaunas in Lithuania, and the Cultural Reserve of Kernavė, about 45 minutes from Vilnius are two optional extras for the Baltic road trip itinerary.

Renting a Car

We highly recommend renting a car for exploring the Baltics. We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven in almost 50 countries around the world so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. For the best rental car options check out the many options available on  Booking.com . We rented our car from Riga airport, however this itinerary can be done in any order!

Book your Baltic rental car now

Day 1: Arrive in Riga

We flew into and out of Riga airport: we opted for Riga as Latvia is the central country in the Baltic states and this reduced the drive time and meant we didn’t have to pay for one way car rental charges to go from point to point.

Where to stay in Riga:

• Riga Islande Hotel: The Islande Hotel on the outskirts of Riga and was perfect for our initial overnight stopover. It’s really reasonably priced, has free parking and breakfast – Check prices now!  
• Gallery Park Hotel & Spa: Where we chose to stay when we returned to Riga and a truely stunning hotel. The rooms are luxurious and the building itself a UNESCO world Heritage building. Definitely check this out – Check prices now!

For some good mid-range options take a look at the Relais le Chevalier or the Monika Centrum Hotel

Book your Riga hotel now!

Day 2: Drive from Riga to Kaunas

Drive time: (270km, 3.5 hours + stops)

Our first day of driving took us from Latvia into Lithuania where our first stop was the stunning Hill of Crosses before we made our way to Ninth Forth and Kaunas for an overnight stay.

Stop 1: The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a Christian pilgrimage site with a collection of over 200,000 wooden crosses erected on a small hill in Lithuania, around a 2 hour drive from Riga. The crosses first started appearing after the 1831 uprising against Russian ruling and relatives, with no bodies to bury, erected crosses on the hill.

The hill was bulldozed twice during a later Russian occupation as religion was forbidden but Lithuanians continued to sneak to the hill and plant the crosses. People from all walks of life are remembered here, motorbikers with crucifixes made from motorcycle parts, airforce pilots, religious ministers. It’s a must-see on any Baltics road trip and we were in awe as we wandered among the thousands of crosses of every shape and size.

Tips for Baltic road trip: Visitors can buy crosses at the entrance to the site where local people actually make them from wood turning. Parking costs 75 cents and is payable in the visitors centre before exiting.

After the Hill of Crosses the next stop is a 2 hour drive to the city of Kaunas for a night.

Stop 2: Ninth Fort Memorial

The infamous Ninth Forth stands in the grounds of the heartbreaking Kaunas Fortress: it was once used as a prison and a stopover for prisoners being transported to labour camps and, later, as a place of execution during the Nazi occupation of Lithuania.  Ninth Fort has now been transformed into a poignant memorial to a very dark history of Lithuania and a 100 foot tall monument dominates the grounds.

Tips for Baltic road trip: Prepare yourself for a stop at Ninth Fort as we shed tears during our visit. There are many heartbreaking sights: the museum houses a beautiful stained glass memorial which tells the sad fate of those who were brought to the site, a bullet ridden wall stands alongside a plaque stating ‘there near this wall Nazis shot and burned people in 1943-1944’ and an exhibit details the last moments of Romas Kalanta, a student who perished after setting himself on fire protesting against the Soviet regime in Lithuania.

Where to Stay in Kaunas 

• Park Inn by Radisson Kaunas: A beautiful 4 star hotel with rooms around €95 per night, located right in the middle of Kaunas town and perfect for an overnight stay –  check prices now!
• Algrio Hotel: A cheaper option at around €50 per night and a great alternative to the Park Inn for an overnight stop in Kaunas – check prices now!

Book your Kaunas hotel now!

Day 3: Kaunas to Vilnius

Drive time: (105km, 90 minutes + stops)

After a morning exploring the maze of streets and admiring the buildings in Kaunas Old Town we set off for Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital city. We fell in love with its old town charm, the cobblestone alleys, the beautiful churches and the sea of orange rooftops visible from every vantage point. There are loads of things to do in Vilnius and it was our favourite city on our Baltic road tri. We’d recommend spending two nights there if you’re arriving late so you have a full day to explore!

Where to Stay in Vilnius 

• Novotel Vilnius: Situated in the centre of Vilnius right beside the Old Town and where we chose to stay. This modern stylise hotel is perfect for exploring the city and the views from the gym on the top floor are stunning – check prices now!
• Radisson Blu Royal Astorija Hotel: located right on the Old Town Square this beautifully restored hotel is another perfect base for exploring the Old Town from – check prices now!
• Imperial Hotel & Restaurant: located right in the Old Town and for those looking for something truly unique. This stunning hotel is perfectly located, with super luxurious rooms and incredible service its no wonder it s one of the  highest  rated hotels in Vilnius –   check prices now!
• if you are after a great budget option, check out The Corner Hotel or the eLoft .

Book your Vilnius hotel now! 

Where to eat and drink : We had an awesome meal at Bistro 18 in the Old Town and the starters and mains were exceptional and reasonably priced. For post dinner drinks we headed to the amazing Bambalynė, a mix of off licence and chilled out Lithiuain beer bar located in a cosy cellar which quickly became one of our favourite bars of our travels!

Day 4: Exploring Vilnius

Vilnius is a real treat and we had a lot of fun exploring the cute and quirky Old Town where the highlights were The Gate of Dawn, the entrance to the Old Town, and Pilies Street, the oldest street in the Old Town. St Anne’s Church is a little further afield but worth the trek.

Baltic Road Trip Itinerary tip: If you have a particular Old Town restaurant you want to eat in in any of the three city’s be sure to book in advance as most are tiny and can be fully reserved at peak times.

Day 5: Lithuania to Sigulda, Latvia

Drive time: (350km, 4 hours + stops)

We set off early on Day 5 to reach Sigulda, a town often described as the Switzerland of Latvia and a lovely escape from city life. We stopped en route at the UNESCO listed Struve Geodetic Arc and the Salaspils Concentration Camp which is about 20km south of Riga and another heartbreaking sight on our Baltic road trip.

Stop 1: Struve Geodetic Arc

We took a detour to the UNESCO listed  Struve Geodetic Arc , one of a chain of 34 which make up the UNESCO Site. We’ve been chasing them around Europe for a year and never managed to tick one off our UNESCO obsessed list . This is very much an optional stop but the extra 45 minute extra drive was totally worth it for us!

Stop 2: Salaspils

Salaspils is a former concentration camp established at the end of 1941 and through which 12,000 victims passed. Today, a poignant memorial complex stands on its grounds: above the entrance are the words ‘Beyond this Gate the Ground is Crying’ and huge memorials representing hope and despair tower above the surrounding forest.

Stop 3: Sigulda

Autumn was in full swing and Sigulda was at its finest: we managed a whistlestop tour of its best sights and our favourites were the medieval Turaida Castle and Gutmanis cave, one of the oldest tourist attractions in Latvia: legend has it that the waters of the spring flowing out of the cave are the tears of the wife of a Liv chief.

Where to Stay in Sigulda

:  Accommodation options are limited in Sigulda and we opted for the aptly named Hotel Sigulda which is a good choice and well priced at under 50 euros.

Book your Sigulda hote now!

Day 6: Sigulda to Tallinn, Estonia

Drive time: (300km, 4 hours + stops)

After a morning drive up north to Tallinn we spent the afternoon exploring the old town of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Estonia’s capital city.

Where to Stay in Tallinn 

• Swissotel Tallinn:  athe perfect luxury option in Tallin and where we had a fantastic stay. It’s a 5 minute walk to the Old Town, the rooms are beautiful and the views across the city from the rooftop bar are incredible – Click here for best prices!
• Hotel Schlossle: an excellent option if you want to stay in the heart of the Old Town – Click here for best prices!
• The Solo Sokos Hotel Estoria or the My City Hotel are good mid range options

Book your Tallinn hotel now!

Where to eat:  After working up an appetite we had dinner at Rataskaevu 16, a really chilled restaurant with a great food and drinks selection and we would definitely recommend it. Kompressor, a popular local pancake house, was another of our favourites and we indulged in some of the best pancakes of our travels. Be warned, they’re huge!!

Things to do in Tallinn:

Tallinn Old Town is the beating heart of the city and it’s a maze of cobbled streets, beautiful churches and kitschy restaurants. Our highlights were the beautiful sea of red roof tops, the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the thought provoking street art and the haunting monk statues in the Danish King’s Gardens.

Day 7: Tallinn, Estonia

Day 7 is a more chilled day where we explored Tallinn and its old city some more. A day trip to Helsinki in Finland is another fantastic option and there are frequent ferries between Tallinn to Helsinki.

Day 8: Tallinn, Estonia to Riga, Latvia

Drive time: 309km, 4 hours + stops

After another morning drive we arrived in Riga and spent the afternoon exploring the old town of Riga, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where to Stay in Riga:

• The Gallery Park Hotel & Spa:  a stunning period hotel and is actually a listed UNESCO World Heritage building so we simply had to stay! Spoil yourself and remember to check out the stunning pool in the basement – it’s pretty incredible! – Check prices now!
• Dome Hotel & Spa: is another luxury Riga gem and part of the same hotel group as Gallery Park. – Check prices now!
• Radi Un Draugi: for a less expensive luxury option in Riga located in the centre of the old town near St. Peter’s Church – Check prices now!

Book your Riga hotel now! 

Where to eat: We ate in Amber Way Taverna, a traditional restaurant which is run by the Latvian Tourist board and aims to show visitors the traditional food and drink of Latvia. The food is simple, wholesome and comforting: just what we needed to warm our bones on a cold day in Latvia!

Day 9: Riga

Riga is a gorgeous city with lots of sightseeing and we spent a relaxed day exploring the Old Town and its surroundings. We started the day at Riga’s Central Market where we indulged in some delicious sweet and savoury treats and picked up some souvenirs of the Baltic city. Our Old Town favourites included Town Hall Square and the incredible House of Blackheads building, the Bremen Town musicians statue (think Grimm brothers fairytale!) and St. Peter’s Church with the panoramic tower views.

Day 10: Jurmala

Drive time: 40km, 40 minutes

The seaside town of Jurmala is a gorgeous escape from city life and definitely worth a night if you can squeeze it in to your Baltic itinerary. It’s all about relaxing and having fun in Jurmala with its beautiful beach, a cute pedestrianized street and an abundance of natural mineral spa resorts. The food is good and Ragakapa Nature Park is the perfect spot for a walk.

Where to Stay in Jurmala 

• The Hotel Jurmala Spa : Located 5 minutes from the beach this hotel has a great spa, including a bar in the spa itself! –  check prices now!
• Baltic Beach Hotel and Spa : an incredible hotel located right on the beach and has an indoor salt water pool. They offer a huge variety of spa treatment, perfect for spoiling yourself! –  check prices now!

Book your Jurmala Spa hotel now!

FAQs and Tips for a Baltic Road Trip Itinerary

We’ve had some questions around the logistics of crossing borders, renting cars and purchasing fuel so here’s our take on a Baltic road trip logistics:

• Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are all members of the Schengen agreement and the European Union so the border crossings involve simply driving past road signs stating that you are entering and leaving each country.
• We used a rental car and there was no issue with driving it across the three countries but do check with your rental company to be sure.
• The Euro currency is used in the three countries.
• Speed cameras are everywhere so be careful to adhere to the speed limits in each country.
• Fuel stations were frequent and we were able to top up with drinks, snacks and fuel regularly.

37 thoughts on “The Ultimate Baltic Road Trip Itinerary (2024)”

I’m really interested to visit the Baltic states and this is a really useful post. Definitely pinning for later. Thanks!

What a great advertisement to visit these places! Sounds like such good fun.

Great itinerary! I cycled through the Baltics this summer with my girlfriend and this brought back many great memories of the cool places we visited so thank you for that 🙂

I would also recommend anyone undertaking this road trip to bring a tent! There are some amazing campsites in the Baltics (particularly the free ones in Estonia)

Thanks Tom, glad you enjoyed 🙂

Will be traveling from Riga to Tallinn towards the end of July with two others. Initially was planning to take the sight-seeing tour bus but am a bit skeptical as the review is very varied. So instead of that, am thinking of driving on my own between the two cities. Do you have any recommendations of places to visit along this journey? It’ll just be a day trip and we hope to maximise the experience.

Kenny from Singapore

Hi Kenny, I’m not sure where the bus tour goes, but we always choose to take a car as it’s more flexible. Close to Riga you can visit Salaspils Memorial and Sigulda which is a beautiful town. The drive north is beautiful, with many options for stopping the forest or along the coast where the beaches are very nice

Hey guys I loved your Baltic itinerary. What air line did you use to fly in/out of Riga? It seems there are few direct flights and the airlines are ones with which I am familiar ( Wizz, RyanAir). Any info appreciated.

I meant, I am NOT familiar with Wizz and RyanAir

Hi John, we used Ryanair – they’re usually our first choice for prices, being on time etc! We haven’t flown with Wizz so don’t have any feedback there!

Hope you have a good trip, we loved it!

This is awesome – thanks so much for posting. When did you do the roadtrip? My husband and I are going late November and want to do a similar (but shorter) roadtrip. Thanks!

Hi Courtney

We went over Halloween so were there at the end of October/start of November. It was a little chilly but we were fine with light jackets.

Thank you for this fantastic itinerary! Did you encounter any issues with language barriers?

Hi Melissa, glad it is useful. We didn’t really encounter any language issues, trip was totally smooth!

Thank you very much for all the information. I’m working on our itinerary, so this is just what I needed!

Wow…this trip sounds great. Our 10 year old selected these countries. We had no clue if we should go on a cruise or road trip. Your itenerary has me ready to pack my suitcase. Since we would go in summer, now is time to make plans. There aren’t a lot of resources so yours is much appreciated. Thanks!

Glad it is useful Anne Marie, it’s a great trip! Enjoy!

can you give me the name of car rental company

It was Avis or Hertz – can’t remember which exactly as we rented a lot of cars last year but we generally use one of those two for rentals!

This is a great report. Thanks for sharing it. I am going to do the same but instead of 10 days, it will be squeezed in 4 days of March. I think I just need to be quick. Hope I can see as much as possible.

I reckon you can squeeze in a lot in 4 days! Let us know how you get on!

Incredibly useful, thanks so much for sharing this!

Glad you liked Maggie, hope you have a good trip if you’re off that way!

Where did you park when staying in Vilnius? Are there plenty of 24 hour parking spaces near the Novotel?

There was a underground car park directly across from the Novotel which was recommended to us a safe option for the car. It was about 2 minutes walk from the hotel door across the square.

Great insight to how we can plan a road trip to these three countries. Was there any problems with finding parkings in these countries and cities. What should we budget for parking and fuel and rental? can we do this trip in 7days, I am starting from Tallin, and will need to go back to Tallin

Hi Teresa, we used paid car parks and didn’t have any issues. They were relatively cheap and close to the major sites. You could definitely do the bulk of the trip in 7 days, the driving distances aren’t too long.

Really enjoyed your itinerary

Great pictures by the way! What kind of camera did you use ?

Thanks Anna. Pics are mostly from Nikon D7200 and a few from Fuji XT 10. Our camera gear is detailed here if you’d like more info

Looking forward to a Baltic state tour, we will be taking the ferry from Helsinki to Tallin going south for maybe 7 days. Question can you take a train through Poland and in to Germany for a flight home?

Hi Carol, we flew home from Lithuania so no idea on the trains. Hope you find the info.

Well that’s made me mind up I am going away in me little campervan for 67 days starting 19 of June from Harwich to hook of holland and hadn’t made any plans apart from going to see friends near burlin thank you .

Wow, a campervan is the dream! Have fun!

Really enjoyed reading your itinerary! Helps a lot for planning.

May I know about the parking when you guys were in Vilnius? Was it hard to find?

We parked in an underground car park recommended by our hotel. It was just opposite our hotel (Novotel Vilnius) on the edge of the Old Town and was easy to locate.

Hi was planning an itinerary thru the Baltics as part of a longer journey starting with 10 days in Poland, then hopefully we will be able to curtail your Baltics itinerary to a max of 8 nights, and travelling on to Denmark, Sweden & Norway, to be in time to be in Tromso around October 16 to see the Northern lights and then returning to London. Hope this is doable.

I hope we can cut your brilliant itinerary to 8 nights.

Awesome trip, might do this with a friend in September. Did you tell the car rental company that you were driving through 2 other countries as well? How did that work with the insurance? Thanks.

We told them when we picked up the car and they told us the restricted countries and that we were good to go elsewhere.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disclaimer:  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

BALTIC TRAVEL

• Travel to Latvia
• History of Latvia
• Conference in Riga
• Travel to Estonia
• History of Estonia
• Conference in Tallinn
• Travel to Lithuania
• History of Lithuania
• Conference in Vilnius
• Travel to Finland
• History of Finland
• Conference in Helsinki
• Travel to Sweden
• History of Sweden
• Conference Hotels
• Travel to Poland
• History of Poland
• Conference in Warsaw
• Travel to Russia
• History of Russia

Tours by Theme

• Baltic Private Tours
• Baltic Food Tours
• Baltic Cultural Tours
• Baltic Winter Tours
• Baltic City Breaks
• Baltic Excursions
• Conferences
• Events / Exhibitions
• MICE Portfolio
• Ticket Services
• Apartment Rental

Travel with Us

• Individual Travel
• Group Travel
• Our Mission

Save up to €100pp* on Festive Holidays!

Please contact us for more information

Baltic highlights including vilnius, riga & tallinn, book your trip from, view hotels, your guided group holiday to the baltics.

Discover the unique cultures and history of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia with us on our 8-night Baltic Highlights tour. Our tour will begin in Vilnius, Lithuania, where we’ll explore the city’s Jewish heritage and gothic architecture. On our journey to our next destination, Riga, we’ll stop at the Hill of Crosses, one of the most holy sites in Lithuania. In Riga, we’ll visit iconic sights like the House of Blackheads, Powder Tower and the Latvian Academy of Sciences building, a symbol of the Soviet Union era known to locals as "Stalin's Birthday Cake." Finally, we’ll make our way to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, located on the Gulf of Finland. In Tallinn, we’ll explore the winding streets of Old Town, the best preserved medieval walled city in all of Northern Europe.

Trip Itinerary

Activity Level: Busy

Travel to lithuania, arrive in vilnius.

Upon arrival in Vilnius, you will be met by our local representative at the airport before being transferred to your hotel. Your guide will share some information about the local region.

Half Day Walking Tour of Vilnius

After breakfast begin your holiday with a walking tour around Vilnius Old Town, famous for its historic building and Gothic churches. Highlights you will witness include Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, St Anne's Church, Vilnius University, the Jewish Quarter, the Bohemian Uzupis District and the Gates of Dawn famed for its image of the Virgin Mary above the only remaining gate from the city's original walls.

Visit Trakai Castle

Drive to the picturesque town of Trakai, where a guided tour of the Castle is included. You will have some free time to enjoy the surroundings at your leisure before returning to your hotel.

Please Note 14 April 2024 Departure : Due to the closure of Trakai Castle at this time we will view the castle from the outside followed by an included light lunch.

Travel to Latvia

Depart for riga.

After breakfast, travel by coach from Vilnius to Riga. There will be stops on route in the Hill of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania, and the Rundale Palace to include a guided tour. There will also be some stops for lunch and comfort breaks along the way.

On arrival to Riga, you will have the evening to relax and explore the surroundings of your hotel.

Total driving time approx. 5 hours. Please note this will be a long travel day, with an estimated arrival time at the hotel approximately 18.30.

Guided City Tour of Riga

After breakfast, your local guide will take you on a tour to view the highlights of this charming city. You will visit the Old Town, the remains of the old city walls and the Dome Cathedral. Next you will visit St. Peter's Church as well as taking in panoramic views of Riga canal, Daugava River and the city skyline. Finally, you will explore the Art Nouveau quarter at the Alberta Street on foot with a visit to the Art Nouveau Museum included.

Please Note 04 October 2024 and all 2025 Departures: Due to the closure of the Art Nouveau Museum on these dates we will join our guide for a visit to the Latvian Open Air Museum following our visit of the Old Town.

Free Time in Riga

You can spend today shopping and sightseeing at your own pace. We would recommend visiting the Central Market where over 1200 vendors peddle their wares daily or visit one of the many galleries or museums throughout the city. Simply walking around the city and stopping in one of the many cafes or bars is a lovely way to spend the day.

Travel to Estonia

Coach travel from riga to tallinn.

Today, you will travel by coach, with your guide, from Riga to Tallinn. En route, you will visit Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest & oldest national park to include a guided visit of the Turaida Museum Reserve.

In the afternoon you will also enjoy a stop in the Estonian summer resort of Parnu with some time at leisure, before continuing your scenic drive onwards to Tallinn. There will also be some stops for lunch and comfort breaks along the way.

Total driving time approx. 5.5 hours. Please note this will be a long travel day, with an estimated arrival time at the hotel approximately 18.30.

Tallinn City Walking Tour

Following breakfast, depart by coach to begin your walking tour of Tallinn Old Town. As you stroll through the city you'll see many highlights including Tompea Castle (Estonian parliament) with entrance included, the Lutheran Dome Church (St Mary's Cathedral), the Church of the Holy Ghost, the Gothic Town Hall and Town Hall Square.

Please Note 14 April 2024 & 08 September 2024 Departure : Instead of a visit to Tompea Castle (Estonia Parliament) we will join our guide for a visit and tour of St Nicholas Church.

Free Time in Tallinn

You will have today at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Your guide will be delighted to recommend places to see and visit.

Return Home

Depart tallinn, estonia.

After breakfast at your hotel, you will have some free time to say goodbye to this charming city. You will then be transferred to Tallinn airport with guide assistance for your flight home.

* We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.

Customer Reviews

Know before you go, what if there is an emergency.

We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

Do I need a Visa?

Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements

Will I be met at the airport?

You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

Similar Holidays

Stories you might like.

Top 10 European countries you must visit

10 reasons to choose a guided holiday in 2025

Top 20 lifetime travel experiences

Be the first to know about our holiday updates, travel tips and special offers..

• Central Europe
• Eastern Europe
• Northern Europe
• Southern Europe
• Western Europe
• Random Acts of Kindness

• Destinations

One Week Baltic Travel Itinerary – Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn

Despite the fairytalish historic centres, good accesses and great value-for-money deals, the Baltic remains a largely unknown and relatively unexplored region for most common tourists. Aside from Tallinn’s admittedly touristy Old Town, most of the remaining cities – even its neighbouring capitals – still feel largely authentic and undiscovered. That might be changing though, as more and more travellers are being drawn into the area each year! If you’re one of these lucky bastards (such as ourselves) making your way to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, then you should probably keep an eye out for this one week Baltic travel itinerary.

Since we could never recommend a plan we wouldn’t commit to ourselves, our guide, which covers the 3 nations’ capitals, is actually a pretty accurate replica of the travel itinerary we designed for the 7 days we spent in the Baltic countries last October (though we eventually made our way up-north to Helsinki).

ONE WEEK BALTIC TRAVEL ITINERARY BREAKDOWN

• Day 1 – Flying In
• Vilnius, Lithuania – 2 days
• Riga, Latvia – 2 days
• Tallinn, Estonia – 2 days

As you can see, our Baltic travel itinerary involves a lot of hopping around from city to city! Luckily, the region’s main cities are very well-connected and you can rely on both buses and trains to commute between Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn . In our case, we used Lux Express and we couldn’t be happier! Their buses are modern and clean, free wi-fi is available (tough sometimes frustratingly slow) and – most importantly – tickets are dirt-cheap, especially if you book ahead!

DAY 1 – FLYING TO VILNIUS

Although you might be lucky enough to land in Vilnius in time to enjoy your first day, there is a good chance you’ll be arriving in the afternoon or late at night, especially if you need to do a layover somewhere else. With that in mind, we chose not to plan any activities for the first day on our one week Baltic travel itinerary, allowing you plenty of time to get to the city centre, find your hotel and maybe do some groceries.

FROM VILNIUS AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

Getting to the city centre after arriving at Vilnius International Airport is quite easy. The airport is actually connected to a train station that will drop you in Vilnius Central Station in just under 10 minutes, with tickets being sold on the spot for just 0,70€.

Since we arrived during the evening and night trains are quite scarce from 8pm onwards, we ended up taking the bus. There are several vehicles departing from the arrival’s terminal and one-way tickets cost 1€. Just make sure to ask the driver whether the bus is heading to the city centre or not before boarding.

DAY 2 – VILNIUS – THE LITHUANIAN CAPITAL FROM ABOVE

For your first real day in Vilnius you might want to get ready for a lot of climbing, as the city’s most iconic hills and viewpoints are waiting for you! This will also be a good way to get acquainted with Vilnius’ beautiful Old Town, considered the biggest in the Baltic. Feel free to explore the area on your own pace and rhythm, but if you want a proper introduction by someone who knows the city like the palm of their hands, booking a Walking Tour may well be a wise choice.

GEDIMINAS AVENUE

What better way to discover a new city than enjoying a walk along its main street? Running between the Lithuanian Parliament and the Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Avenue is one of the prettiest, classiest and liveliest streets in the city. Besides, the avenue is surrounded by beautiful architecture and encompasses other city attractions, such as the KGB Museum, the Lukiškės Square or the spooky Three Muses Sculpture.

VILNIUS CATHEDRAL

Much like their Polish enemies/brothers (they’re still trying to figure it out), Lithuanians are famous for being quite passionate about their Catholicism. While in most European countries churches are getting emptier as older generations die out, in Lithuania that doesn’t seem to be the case. As the city’s main church, Vilnius Cathedral gets packed every Sunday morning (trust us, we happened to be there!) for the weekly mass, making for a fantastic people-watching session. The cathedral itself is a thing of beauty, and along with its separate bell tower, forms what is probably the most recognizable building in the entire city!

PALACE OF THE GRAND DUKES OF LITHUANIA

Located right behind the main church, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is the missing piece in the Cathedral Square’s ensemble. Once home to local Grand Dukes and future Kings of Poland, this palace is actually a reconstruction of the 15 th century original, after the latter was destroyed following Russia’s overtake of Lithuania. Luckily, your visit to the country couldn’t be better timed, as the brand-new structure was officially finished in July 2018 and all of its wings are finally open to the public. If you’d like to take a self-guided tour of the palace, tickets can be bought onsite for 3€.

GEDIMINAS TOWER

Time for the first climb of the day! By now, surely you will have noticed the bright orange tower peeking from atop a hill – and that’s where you’re heading next. Called Gediminas Tower, in honour of the city’s founder who built the original castle, this lonely structure was formerly a part of a major fortification which overlooked and protected the city. Nowadays, and though it was actually rebuilt in 1933, it stands as one of the very few surviving elements of the Upper Castle section, providing amazing panoramic views over the Old Town and the city’s outskirts.

HILL OF THE THREE CROSSES

While you’re at it, take advantage of your body’s momentum and get ready for yet another climb (I promise it will be the last)! Though second in popularity to Gediminas Tower, I must say I preferred the city view from atop the Hill of Three Crosses, as you can get a better overview of Vilnius and its Old Town’s countless towers and spires. Plus, you can actually see the castle tower as part of the landscape from here!

CHURCH OF SAINT ANNE

After walking your way down, a visit to the Bernardine Gardens is in order! This quaint park is a great place to rest your legs and help pass the time after so much climbing, with local families playing around with their little ones and an atmosphere of pure calmness. Besides, it’s located right next to one of the prettiest and most welcoming worship sites in Vilnius – the Church of Saint Anne – where we could find entire families and groups of friends having picnics and enjoying a sunny Autumn day within the church’s outdoor backyard.

SAINTS PETER AND PAUL’S CHURCH

First, let me point out that we could have easily made a full list of places to see in Vilnius with nothing but churches – that’s how prominent and amazing these are in Lithuania! That being said, I recommend capping off the second day on your Baltic travel itinerary with a small detour and a visit to what is probably the most impressive church in the city. Although the Saints Peter & Paul’s Church is quite pretty on the outside, its façade doesn’t really prepare you for the jaw-dropping interiors it hides. With over 2000 figures sculpted into the all-white walls and ceiling, this will surely be a place that will leave you in awe.

DAY 3 – VILNIUS – DAY TRIP TO TRAKAI

Now that you’ve seen Vilnius’ most famous tourist attractions, it’s time to get lost within the city’s immense historic centre. For your last morning in the city, you should allow yourself to wander freely while exploring the Old Town’s beautiful streets, tiny alleys and quirky details. Once you cross all the remaining sites off your list, you will then be ready to board the bus and take a lovely day trip to Trakai, where you can visit its scenic castle and experience a different side to Lithuania.

PILIES STREET

It’s certainly not a coincidence that Pilies Gatve is considered the Old Town’s most popular street, as it includes a little sample of all the things that make the historic district such a tourist draw. Lined with restaurants, souvenir stands, ancient buildings and – of course – legendary Baltic amber shops, this pedestrian street is the city’s pumping heart and one of the must-see places if you want to experience the Lithuanian hustle and bustle.

VILNIUS UNIVERSITY

Surprisingly, this turned out to be one of my favourite places in Vilnius! Dating from 1579, this reputable institution features some well-kept secrets and a thriving student community that will make you wish you had had the chance to study there. Popular for its countless inner courtyards and architecture worthy of a palace or museum, the University is home to the awe-inspiring painted ceilings of the Literra Bookstore, and the insanely beautiful (meaning it is literally as insane as it is beautiful), Faculty of Philology hall – a small room painted with some bizarre nightmare-inducing frescoes depicting tales of Baltic folklore. Entrance to the university’s premises costs 1,50€, but getting to see the Grand Courtyard and the Church of Saint John is more than worth the price of admission.

Why do anarchic communities always seem to be dotted with dodgy-looking people? The more I visit this kind of self-proclaimed republics, such as Metelkova in Slovenia or Christiania in Denmark , the more I feel their essence and original purpose have long been lost for the sake of profit. Plus, you can be a progressive left-leaning individual and still take a shower, right? Personal opinions aside, Uzupis is nonetheless an extremely interesting place to visit. Enjoying their own set of rules and some bizarre sights, this should definitely feature in your one week Baltic travel itinerary!

FORMER VILNIUS JEWISH GHETTOS

It’s morbidly ironic that an area which stands as a symbol of segregation and a remembrance of mankind’s darkest hour, can nowadays flourish as the loveliest and most adorable part of a city. Between 1941 and 1943, these two areas – which were split into the Big Ghetto and the Small Ghetto – were home to 40.000 Jews, who had to endure the ghetto’s harsh conditions and the ruthlessly oppressive treatment at the hands of the Nazi occupation, before being murdered or sent to nearby concentration camps. If only walls could talk, they would tell you heart-breaking stories of loss and death, but also inspiring and uplifting stories of resistance, union and resiliency. Sadly, walls do not talk, and not many were left to tell the Ghetto’s story. However, the very few descendants of those who witnessed these crimes ensure the world’s collective memory doesn’t fade, and if you’d like to learn more from them, we recommend taking a Jewish Heritage Walking Tour.

Read Also: Visiting the Auschwitz Concentration Camps – Hell on Earth

GATES OF DAWN

Before venturing on to Trakai, you’ll bid farewell to Vilnius’ magical Old Town by crossing its only surviving city gate. A reminder of the old defensive fortifications which used to protect the city from foreign invaders, the Gates of Dawn miraculously escaped the wall’s dismantlement in the late 18 th century, standing nowadays as a recollection of past times. Not trying to go for the conspiracy theory here but… doesn’t that remind you of the Illuminati symbol?!

TRAKAI CASTLE

Trakai Castle turned out to be one hell of a surprise! Got to admit we weren’t expecting much of the place – just another pretty castle to add to our list – but we were terribly wrong. First, the setting is absolutely gorgeous! Located on a tiny island over the picturesque Lake Galve, the castle is surrounded by the lake’s tranquil waters and the mainland’s scenic shores, which, as we were visiting in the fall, were filled with yellow and orange leaves as half-naked trees dotted the area. There is a stark contrast between the crowded and energetic nation’s capital and the tranquility you will find in Trakai, and that is exactly why you should experience both realities within the same day in order to compare them both. You are free to wander the castle grounds, but if you wish to visit its permanent exhibition, you can check ticket prices in the castle’s official website.

HOW TO GET TO TRAKAI CASTLE FROM VILNIUS

As Trakai and Vilnius are only 30km apart, moving between the two is fairly simple. Although you can also do the trip on a train, we chose to use the bus (well, more like a van) instead, as Trakai’s bus station is a bit closer to the castle than its railway counterpart. Just pay a visit to Vilnius Bus Station, go to one of the desks and ask for a ticket to Trakai – as simples as that! The person on the other side of the counter will then hand you your ticket and tell you which platform you should head to, as well as the bus’s departure time. You can check bus schedules and even buy your ticket (depending on the company) at Autobusubilietai.lt

One-way tickets cost 2€ and the entire trip takes about 30 to 40 minutes, but keep in mind the local bus station is located about 2,5km away from Trakai Castle and you’ll have to walk the remaining distance yourself. If that sounds like too much of a hassle or if you simply want to have a better and more informative experience, getting a Half-Day Sightseeing Tour to Trakai might be your best option!

DAY 4 – RIGA – ARRIVING AND EXPLORING THE OLD TOWN

Although you will wake up in Vilnius, the 4 th day on your one week Baltic travel itinerary will be all about the beautiful Old Town of Riga. In order to make the most of your afternoon, you’ll be better off by booking a hotel room located in the Old Town – prices are still fairly decent and you’ll manage to save a lot of precious time.

If you want to cut straight to the chase and discover the best of Riga on a pretty tight schedule (you’ll still have a full second day for the Art Nouveau quarter), then it might be a good idea to book a Riga Private Walking Tour or, if you’re on a quest to save your legs, a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of the city.

BUS TRIP FROM VILNIUS TO RIGA

As the bus trip between the two cities will take about 4 hours, we suggest booking an early ride with Lux Express in order to be able to enjoy the afternoon in the Latvian capital.  In our case, we took a bus from Vilnius Bus Station at 10am and arrived in Riga at 2pm (we could have taken a sooner bus, but at 5€/ticket we simply couldn’t overlook this one). This meant we still had some 3 hours of sunlight left to explore the local Old Town and get acquainted with its famous edginess.

RIGA CENTRAL MARKET

The Central Market will be the only place outside of the Old Town that you’ll visit throughout the afternoon. However, considering its location right next to the city’s main bus station, this is an obvious first stop for newcomers arriving to Riga by bus! Comprising an indoor market and an outdoor bazaar, the Central Market in Riga is actually considered the biggest market in Europe, which means you’ll still have a lot to see, even if you’re not visiting in the morning when the market is at its busiest. Besides, this market is also famous due to its pavilions original purpose. Think about it – it’s not every day that you get to shop inside 5 of the only 9 remaining Zeppelin hangars in the world!

SAINT PETER’S CHURCH

Now that you’re finally ready to explore the Old Town we have so fondly mentioned, you must start with what is probably its most prominent attraction. Towering over the historic centre and dominating the city’s skyline, Saint Peter’s Church is a standing symbol of Riga, with the earliest reports of this worship site dating all the way back to the 13 th century. Still, and despite such ancient reports, it has been destroyed and re-erected multiple times, with the current building having been finished only in 1973. When in the city, taking the lift to the top of the church’s tower is a must, as the 360º views are simply amazing! Admission to the church and the tower costs 9€.

RIGA TOWN HALL SQUARE

Don’t tell anyone, but the Old Town’s main square is kind of a beautiful mess. Completely destroyed during World War II, local authorities decided to rebuild several features of the square, while including some new additions to the mix. The end result is a weird mix of Baroque buildings (Town Hall), stone statues, insane guildhalls (House of Blackheads) and soviet structures (Museum of the Occupation of Latvia) that somehow manage to coexist within the same frame. In fact – as you can see by the photos – they actually end up working together!

RIGA CATHEDRAL

From the Town Hall Square, you should take the picture-perfect Jauniela street and make your way to Riga Cathedral. Though very simple on the inside, this church – the largest in the Baltic states – is absolutely massive and beyond imposing, occupying a huge open area in the Old Town. Much like Saint Peter’s Church, the Cathedral’s tower can also be seen from afar, standing as one of the most recognizable features in the city’s landscape.

LIVU SQUARE

With its colourful buildings and lovely flower-beds reminiscent of a Disney movie set, this adorable yet criminally overlooked square ended up becoming one of our favourite places in the Latvian capital! While looking around, make sure to spot the famous Cat House – just follow the elder Asian ladies and their mobile phone cameras and you’ll find it right away!

SWEDISH GATE AND OLD CITY WALLS

Finally, cap off your day with a visit to the city walls that used to surround and protect the Old Town. Although most of the original wall has been torn down, this small stretch – renovated during the soviet period – has survived the test of time. While you’re there, don’t forget to cross the Swedish Gate!

DAY 5 – ART NOUVEAU AND OTHER WONDERS

You may feel like you’ve just arrived in the city, but this will be your last day in Riga already! Now that you’re perfectly comfortable walking around the Old Town, the time has come to explore the city’s super-famous Art Nouveau District, discovering quaint parks, inspiring monuments and beautiful cathedrals along the way. Don’t forget to ask the hotel staff if they have some kind of storage room where you can save your stuff after you check-out. This way, you won’t need to carry all your gear throughout the day!

LATVIAN NATIONAL OPERA

Originally built in 1863, the Latvian National Opera building is a beautiful classical structure which – astonishingly considering the city’s history – has never been destroyed! You know your ancestors have gone through some bad times when this is reason for celebration. However, my favourite thing about it is actually its setting. Surrounded by the Bastejkalna Park, the Opera stands side by side with a scenic canal, picturesque gardens and historical statues.

FREEDOM MONUMENT

The Baltic states have some seriously f****d-up history, but Latvia probably stands out as the most “difficult” of the bunch. Strenuous relationships with its neighbouring empires ensured a history of hardship, invasions and oppression, while the attempted russification of the Latvian society throughout the 20 th century resulted in a country struggling with a huge identity crisis. Although we definitely won’t be discussing politics here, a quick research about Latvian history and you can easily understand why the Freedom Monument is such an important symbol for ethnic Latvians living in the country.

NATIVITY OF CHRIST CATHEDRAL

Speaking of the Russian influence in Latvia, the country’s most important Orthodox worship site will be your next stop! With its imposing domes towering over the area, the Nativity of Christ Cathedral is one massive church whose photos don’t really do it justice. It just looks a lot bigger (and more impressive) in person. Entrance is free, but unfortunately they won’t let you snap any pics inside, which means you’ll have to take our word for it when we say this has got to be the most underrated attraction in Riga!

ART NOUVEAU DISTRICT

Hate to play the devil’s advocate, but I was actually kind of disappointed after visiting Riga’s Art Nouveau District. For all the praise it gets, I was expecting some out-of-this-world architecture, with streets filled with grandiose buildings and quirky details. Don’t get me wrong – it’s still a cool experience to walk around the likes of Albert Street, Jugenda Stila Nami or Elizabeth Street – but unless you’re an architect or currently studying to be one, chances are that you won’t be too impressed. Either that, or I am just an insensitive ignorant who can’t recognize great architecture – take your guess!

KGB BUILDING MUSEUM

Have you ever felt like a city doesn’t want your money? I was pretty eager to visit the facilities where Latvian prisoners and other protesters were kept and tortured throughout the Soviet regime, but the building was unfortunately closed for renovations when we went there. Still, I thought about walking all the way back to the Old Town and pay a visit to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. The fact that there was no prison to see kind of took away some of the excitement, but Latvia’s history is a pretty interesting one so expectations were still high… until I got there. Once again, the building was closed for renovations and the main exhibition had been moved to a temporary location outside the historic centre. Well, some things simply aren’t meant to be!

BUS TRIP FROM RIGA TO TALLINN

At the end of the day, make your way to the local bus station and hop on the bus to Tallinn. Once again, we recommend using Lux Express (link for their website shared above) for the trip. This one turned out costing us a bit more, but 14€/ticket still felt like a pretty good deal for another 4-hour journey. Upon arriving in Tallinn, you can take the tram to the city centre or do it the good-old way and walk the 3km distance length. That’s what we ended up doing and – surprise, surprise – it was totally not worth the 4€ we saved on the ride.

DAY 6 – TALLINN – A FAIRYTALE BEHIND THE WALLS

After spending the night in the city, get ready to wake up early and discover what is widely considered to be the most beautiful city in the Baltics. Tourists do love Tallinn and you’ll instantly notice there is a lot more tourism here than anywhere else in the region. However, credit where its due – Tallinn is beyond gorgeous! In fact, if you want to see the best the city has to offer, you should definitely look out for a Walking Tour upon arriving in the Estonian Capital. With its fairytale streets, idyllic little houses and incredible viewpoints from atop Toompea Hill, you better make sure to charge your camera the night before.

KOHTUOTSA VIEWING PLATFORM

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Tallinn, walking all the way up to the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform is the perfect way to fall for Tallinn at first glance. With the picturesque Old Town laying in front of your eyes, you won’t even mind having to fight with fellow tourists for every inch of space only to get a half-decent photo! For a less crowded experience, try out the Patkuli Viewing Platform, located just a 2-minute walk away. Equally stunning views and more space to breathe!

SAINT MARY’S CATHEDRAL

Though usually outshone by the nearby Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the huge St. Olaf’s Church, Saint Mary’s Cathedral is a place you do not want to miss! For starters, it’s the oldest church in the city – and trust us – this is one old city! Besides, its interiors are actually quite unusual, as huge coats-of-arms are used to decorate the cathedral’s rather empty white walls, making for pretty unique visuals. Tickets to visit the Dome Church (as it’s also known) are available for 2€.

ALEXANDER NEVSKY CATHEDRAL

Located right next to Toompea Castle, this orthodox cathedral is the flashiest sight in all of Tallinn. Easily spotted from afar due to its elevated location (atop Toompea Hill), onion-shaped domes and bright colours, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral will have you feeling like you’re visiting good-ol’ Mother Russia! In fact, that was precisely the cause for many problems for a long time, as Estonians would more often than not look at it as a symbol of Russian oppression and control. Be that as it may, demolition plans never came to fruition, and considering the church’s popularity among visitors, I doubt they ever will!

TOWN HALL SQUARE

Now that you’ve descended from Toompea Hill, it’s time to visit the Old Town’s lower city – so let’s start with a bang! Surprisingly tucked in-between narrow streets and hidden passages, the Town Hall Square is an awe-inspiring sight, surrounded by colourful houses, stalls and – of course – the ancient Tallinn Town Hall.

By now, your stomach will probably be begging you for some food, so why not trying something different? Consider hiring the services of a local and take a Walking Food Tour. You’re granted a pretty cool experience hopping from restaurant to restaurant in the heart of Estonian life.

SAINT CATHERINE’S PASSAGE

One thing you’ll notice about Tallinn’s Old Town, is that some streets appear to be “secret”. Resting side-by-side with major streets and wide squares, these unassuming narrow lanes are easily missable if you don’t pay proper attention, and often you’ll find them a lot less crowded than the rest of the area. Saint Catherine’s Passage is by far the most famous of all the walkways in the Old Town. Dotted with artisan shops and ancient tombstones from the adjacent St. Catherine’s Church, this has to be Tallinn at its most medieval!

Wherever you find a city wall, there has to be a gate somewhere! Considered the main entrance to Tallinn’s historic centre, the Viru Gate is the most beautiful of all the surviving city gates. Though partially destroyed, this gate remains in pretty good condition, and still offers the perfect welcome card for those wishing to wander through the magical streets of the capital’s old city.

FREEDOM SQUARE

This may not be the prettiest sight Tallinn has to offer, but it’s definitely hard to find one bearing more importance to the Estonian people. Home to the Victory Column, this is the place locals flock to when they want to honour all those who died fighting for the country’s liberation in the Estonian War of Independence. Once there, it is also worth checking out St. John’s Church – that pretty yellow building you see on the photos!

DAY 7 – TALLINN – AN EDGIER SIDE TO THE CITY (AND IT’S TIME TO SAY GOODBYE)

Got to admit I had first thought two days in Tallinn was too much. Aside from the Old Town, what else could the city bring to the table? Well, as it turns out, there’s more to the Estonian capital than its admittedly lovely historic centre. In fact, the second day in the city made me realize Tallinn is not only a beautiful fairytalish place, but also a pretty cool and alternative city!

Still, this will be the least packed day in your one week Baltic travel itinerary, since you’ll be flying home at the end of the day!

LENNUSADAM SEAPLANE HARBOUR

We were so lucky on this one! We had read great reviews about this maritime museum, but the 14€ rate for the tickets had us wondering if it was all worth it. Since our hotel was located in the historical fishermen area of Kalamaja (famous for its countless wooden houses), 5 minutes away from the museum, we agreed to go there and take a look before making a decision. As it turns out, the museum-ships moored at the docs were actually open to everyone! We ended up exploring a 100-year old icebreaker, with free unsupervised access to every area of the ship, including the engine room and the crew’s cabins. Needless to say, we ended up loving it!

KADRIORG PALACE AND PARK

Next up, we recommend taking the tram and paying a visit to Kadriorg Palace and its magnificent gardens. In case you’re wondering if this park is worth the detour, just keep in mind it was commissioned by Peter the Great, the same guy who built Saint Petersburg from scratch – so you know it has to be good! Plus, the gardens have some really instagrammable spots!

ROTERMANN QUARTER

Although located right next to the Old Town, your last stop in Tallinn is a far cry away from the picture-perfect world lying behind the ancient walls. Considered the city’s cultural and artistic hub, the Rotermann Quarter represents the “New Tallinn”, an edgy and modern city aiming to show how much the country has developed since its independence. If you want to catch a glimpse of local life and take a look at some pretty cool architecture, this is the place to go!

FLYING HOME FROM TALLINN AIRPORT

It’s finally time to face the sad truth – you’re going home! Your time in the Baltics may have come to an end, but at least you’ll get to save some amazing memories – and hopefully some flashy snaps – of your adventures there. Besides, the region is now more open and accessible than ever, so returning is no longer the difficult task it once was!

How to Go from Tallinn City Centre to the Airport

Located just 4km away from the city centre, getting to the airport in Tallinn is easy breezy! Just take the tram line nº 4 at Viru Gate towards Lennujaam (Airport in Estonian) and leave at the terminus. The entire journey takes between 15 to 20 minutes, and one-way tickets bought directly from the driver cost 2€.

Quick, cheap & easy!

That was it guys – hope you enjoyed our One Week Baltic Travel Itinerary! We enjoyed an amazing week there before crossing the Gulf of Finland on a ferry and continuing our adventure through Helsinki (which we also recommend btw). However, if 7 days is all you got, rest assured this guide will help make the most of your time in the region.

Have you ever visited the Baltic countries? Which other cities and landmarks do you recommend? Let us know on the comments below!

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Gamla Stan Sights – Exploring Stockholm’s Old Town

The Beautiful City of Ljubljana in 20 Lovely Pictures

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

UPCOMING TRIPS

Recent articles.

Your Perfect One Day Itinerary for Torun, Poland

Best Things to See in Nur-Sultan (Astana), Kazakhstan

8 Best Things to Do in Mostar in 1 Day

Email Marketing by E-goi

PRÓXIMAS VIAGENS

• Cazaquistão
• Uzbequistão

ARTIGOS RECENTES

Follow us on instagram @circum_mundum.

• Privacy policy

Tallinn or Riga or Vilnius: The Best Baltic City to Visit

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Despite their seemingly diminutive size, the three Baltic capitals have unique offerings and cultures and it can be tricky to decide between visiting Tallinn or Riga or Vilnius.

Tallinn has the medieval charm of the Old Town and fantastic craft beer, Riga boasts incredible Art Nouveau architecture and an elegant and cosmopolitan vibe while Vilnius has one of the largest Old Towns in Europe and an inviting laidback culture.

We have spent a lot of time in each capital and while all three are worth visiting, this guide can help you figure out which is the best Baltic city to visit if you only have time for one!

Table of Contents

Tallinn, Estonia

Becoming famous the world over for its exquisitely preserved, picture-perfect medieval Old Town, Tallinn is the most sought-after destination in this article.

Estonia is quite different culturally and linguistically to its Latvian and Lithuanian neighbours and therefore you will experience an eclectic mix of Baltic and Nordic tendencies. Often considered to be the most technologically advanced country in the world, Tallinn mixes a vibrant and modern capital with quaint, old-world charm almost seamlessly.

Accessibility

Tallinn is the most visited out of all three Baltic capitals. The city is well-connected with other major cities close by, with frequent bus and train links between cities like Riga, Tartu , and Parnu as well as ferry links to cities like Helsinki and Stockholm.

Tallinn is also only about 80 kilometres south of Helsinki and with ferries departing at least every hour, it is a popular day trip from the Finnish capital (or vice versa). Tallinn is also accessible by ferry from cities like Mariehamn, Finland and the Swedish capital of Stockholm . The city also has a large and well-developed cruise ship port with a capacity to dock up to six ships at once.

Aside from its overland connections, Tallinn also has a relatively high-traffic international airport that serves airlines such as SAS, Finnair, airBaltic, Ryanair, British Airways, and Easyjet among others. There are year-round direct flights from a number of major European cities such as London , Copenhagen , Frankfurt , and Amsterdam and more cities are served in the summer months.

The city of Tallinn itself is fairly walkable and, especially if you’re only planning on visiting the Old Town, it is entirely possible to get to a wide array of attractions on foot.

However, if you’re keen to explore some sites a little bit farther afoot, there is an extensive, affordable, and easy-to-use bus and tram network.

All in all, Estonia’s capital is a pretty accessible place both in terms of getting to the city and around it once you’re there.

Things To Do In Tallinn

Although millions of people flock to Tallinn every year, only about half of them spend more than a day in the city. This fact might have people thinking that there aren’t a lot of things to do in Tallinn but that is the wrong assumption.

Sure, all of the main sites in the Old Town including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Patkuli Viewing Platform, and the Town Hall Square can all be seen in the span of a few hours, there is so much more to the city than this. Tallinn is a modern, high-tech, and thriving city with a number of great things to do both in and out of the Old Town.

The trendy neighbourhood of Kalamaja is well worth exploring, with many nice shops, restaurants, and cafes to pop into. This is also where the popular Seaplane Harbour Museum is located, which is a great way to spend a couple of hours learning about Estonia’s maritime history.

Other points of interest outside of the Old Town include the hip Telliskivi Creative City and Balti Jaama Turg, which has both traditional market stalls and some fantastic street food. If the weather is fine, there is a nice city beach just a short bus ride from the city centre in the suburb called Pirita. The beach also isn’t far from the great Estonian History Museum.

Tallinn has a number of great things to do, so it is easy to spend at least two days in the city — though we would recommend three or four . If you have more time, you can easily go on a day trip to Lahemaa National Park as well.

Traditional Estonian cuisine doesn’t vary much from that found in the other Baltic capitals. Consisting of both Eastern and Nordic influences with a heavy reliance on seafood, the cuisine of Estonia isn’t nearly as heavy as the food found in many other Eastern and Central European countries.

While traditional fare is definitely available in Tallinn, there are also some great restaurants that are doing some very cool things with the local ingredients. The trend of “new Nordic” cuisine that has swept major Scandinavian cities such as Copenhagen and Stockholm has also found itself a comfortable home in Tallinn.

There are a number of affordable eateries and street food options that have given local produce an international flair and, if you dig even just a little, you will find that you will eat very well in Tallinn.

If you are a craft beer fan, you will also be spoilt for choice in Tallinn. The city — and Estonia in general — has a thriving craft beer scene with local brews available on nearly every restaurant menu.

There are also a number of great bars, taprooms, and bottle shops dedicated specifically to Tallinn’s craft beer fetish and one could easily spend an entire weekend purely hopping from place to place sampling the eclectic and inventive breweries throughout the city.

There is no denying it, Tallinn is a hip and happening city and has a nightlife to match it. There are numerous nighttime options to fit any personality — from chic wine bars to convivial local pubs and hopping nightclubs to subterranean speakeasies.

Tallinn has long been a hotspot for Finnish stag parties looking to drink on the cheap and, in recent years with the increase in budget airlines flying to Tallinn, it has become more popular for those from other countries as well.

Regardless of your tastes, if you’re keen to find a party while visiting Tallinn, you won’t have any trouble.

Affordability

If you’re stuck trying to decide which Baltic capital to visit and every city seems to have something going for it that interests you, then it can be helpful to know that Tallinn tends to be the most expensive of the three.

While prices are still considerably lower than those of large Western European cities, it is worth noting that spending a significant amount of time in the Old Town is not going be much of a budget experience.

Accommodation prices in Tallinn vs Riga and Vilnius are roughly 15-20% more expensive, as are food prices. It is, however, noticeably cheaper even a couple hundred metres outside of the Old Town where we noticed that restaurant prices especially were up to 100% cheaper than in the tourist centre.

If you are really looking to eat well and on the cheap, check out the street food at Balti Jaama Turg and Telliskivi Creative City, which both have affordable and diverse dining options.

On the whole, don’t expect Tallinn to be an incredibly cheap destination but it still can be quite affordable if you avoid the tourist traps.

Where To Stay In Tallinn

Due to its growing popularity as a tourist destination, there are numerous accommodation options that will suit any kind of budget.

We would recommend looking to stay slightly outside of the Old Town area — not only will it likely save you a few euros, but it is also quieter and will ensure you will get a good night’s sleep away from the hard partiers that flock to the city on the weekend.

We like the Kalamaja neighbourhood, which is cool and trendy and located no more than 10 minutes walking distance from the Old Town. Here are some of our suggestions for the best places to stay in Tallinn:

Savoy Boutique Hotel – If you’re after a luxury stay in Tallinn, then this boutique hotel is a great choice. Centrally located in the Old Town, they have a number of plush rooms available all within easy reach of the top sites in the Estonian capital.

Bob W Telliskivi  – Located near the creative city of Telliskivi, they have a range of fully-furnished apartments that is perfect if you prefer to cook some of your own meals. 

Fat Margaret’s Hostel – Located between Kalamaja and the Old Town, this hostel is a great budget option in Tallinn — offering both private and dorm rooms. Like many other homes in Estonia, they also have their own sauna on site! 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Tallinn!

Riga, Latvia

Where Tallinn mixes medieval charms with Silicon Valley-like innovation almost seamlessly, Latvia’s capital city of Riga is a bustling metropolis filled to the brims with gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture and an inescapable energy. Though only about 300 kilometres south of Tallinn, Riga feels like a different world with a unique culture and population that will surely leave you eager to explore more.

Latvia is located in the centre of the Baltic States and Riga has a strategic position on the mouth of the Daugava River going out onto the Gulf of Riga. This means that the city is easy to reach from a number of surrounding countries.

Riga has frequent bus connections between most major Baltic cities and also cities like Warsaw and St Petersburg. There is also a daily ferry connection with Stockholm, Sweden.

Riga also has an international airport that serves as the hub to airBaltic and also welcomes budget airlines such as WizzAir and Ryanair, along with other carriers such as Norwegian, Lufthansa, and SAS. There are direct connections to Riga from most major European cities.

In the city itself, there is an extensive bus and tram network that will easily and affordably take you anywhere you might want to go. However, the centre and old town are very walkable and it is best to get around on foot.

The main bus and train stations also aren’t located far from the centre of Riga. If you plan to only spend your time here, you will likely only need to use public transport to get to and from the airport.

Things To Do In Riga

Riga is the most populous city in the Baltic states and has a much more cosmopolitan atmosphere than either of the other capitals, which is a good deciding factor if you’re finding it difficult to choose between the three capital cities. Because of its big-city vibe and history dating back a thousand or more years, there are a number of interesting and fun things to do in Riga .

The most popular area of Riga would be its Old Town, where attractions such as the Gunpowder Tower, the House of the Blackheads, and the Riga Castle draw tourists in with their historical significance and stunning architecture.

The Riga Central Market is also a fantastic place to browse through, especially to learn a little bit more about the local produce of Latvia. This is the largest market of its type in the Baltics.

While the Old Town is certainly worth wandering through, the entire central area of Riga has numerous points of interest and has the largest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture in the world.

Due to its proximity to the coast, Riga is also the perfect place to have a taste of the Baltic Sea. The popular resort town of Jurmala is only a 30-minute train ride from the city centre and can be the perfect escape.

Latvian food differs slightly from that of Estonia and is more heavily influenced by its Eastern neighbours rather than those to the north. That being said, it is possible to find traditional Latvian food all over Riga. However, the city also has enough great international food options and innovative new restaurants to contend with other major European cities.

Alongside Latvian food, other cuisines you can find in Riga that aren’t as easy to find in the West are Georgian, Uzbek and Armenian, which are all popular choices amongst locals.

There are also a number of hip and trendy restaurants throughout the city which have “reimagined” traditional Latvian cuisine alongside old favourites such as the cafeteria chain, Lido.

Altogether, there are a lot of great places to eat in Riga, however, if you’re after a foodie destination with an endless choice of ultra-hip and trendy restaurants, then Tallinn might be more your speed.

Where Tallinn might be a popular place among Finnish tourists to drink, Riga has also been firmly cementing itself in the international community as a nightlife hotspot. Because the city is served by a number of budget carriers and is also has some of the most affordable alcohol prices in Europe, Riga has become a hotspot for stag and hen parties across Europe.

While these parties can certainly be a nuisance, they are easily avoided if you stray from the Old Town for a night out. Riga has a hopping nightlife all across the city and there is something to suit any taste.

The Latvian capital also has cheaper booze prices on average than Tallinn, so it is an excellent choice if you’re looking to let your hair down and party until dawn without spending too much money.

If you’re trying to compare Riga to Vilnius and Tallinn, then certainly the affordability of the city needs to be taken into account. And luckily for the budget-minded traveller, Riga is quite an affordable place to travel!

Just like most every other major city in Europe, the Old Town does tend to be a bit more expensive than the other city purely because it is where most tourists tend to spend their money.

However, the prices in Riga’s Old Town are significantly less expensive when compared to Tallinn. That being said, if you’re trying to save some money, we would recommend looking for accommodation and restaurants away from the main tourist centre — it will both be more affordable and likely of better quality.

Entry into museums and historical sites in Riga will rarely cost more than €5 for a full-priced ticket and these are often up to 50% discounted if you happen to be a student, under the age of 26 or over 65. There is also ample accommodation available that will also fit any type of budget.

Where to Stay in Riga

With its increasing popularity amongst city-breakers and long-term travellers alike, there is no shortage of places to stay in Riga. We would recommend staying in the central area of Riga rather than the Old Town, it is quieter at night, prices are often less expensive, and there are great restaurants and nightlife opportunities that aren’t going to be only directed toward tourists. If you’re wondering where to stay in Riga , check out our top picks:

Forums Boutique Hotel – Situated very close to all of Riga’s top attractions, this boutique hotel is a fantastic choice for those visiting the Latvian capital. They have a range of classically designed rooms available and include breakfast each morning.

Greystone Suites & Apartments – If you’re visiting Riga for a romantic getaway, then this hotel is a great option. It is centrally located and within walking distance of all of the main sites in the Old Town and Central Riga, they have a range of rooms and apartments on offer.

Cinnamon Sally Backpacker’s Hostel – Located in the centre of Riga close to the main bus and train stations and the Central Market, this small hostel is one of the best places to stay in Riga if you’re on a budget. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also organise social events, so it’s a great option if you’re travelling solo and want to meet some people as well!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Riga!

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania’s baroque capital of Vilnius boasts one of the largest Old Towns in all of Europe, an excellent restaurant scene, fascinating history, and is even home to its own “independent republic!”

Often overlooked for its more high-profile neighbours, Vilnius is just climbing on the scene and getting some international attention for being an interesting place to visit.

Contrary to the other Baltic capitals, Vilnius is located about 300 kilometres inland and therefore cannot be reached by ferry. However, there are frequent direct bus and train connections from just about every major city nearby.

Vilnius also has an international airport that serves a number of major European destinations and airlines, including airBaltic, Ryanair, Norwegian, and Lufthansa among others. Another popular choice for those looking for a city break in Vilnius is to fly into Kaunas airport.

Lithuania’s second-largest city is only a 1.5-hour bus ride from the capital and the airport serves mostly budget airlines from a handful of large European hubs.

In Vilnius, there is an extensive bus and tram network that is affordable and fairly easy to navigate. There are ride-share apps like Bolt that operate here, and fares are generally very affordable. On the whole, however, most of the main sites in Vilnius are easy to reach on foot and the city is incredibly walkable.

Things to do in Vilnius

Compared to Tallinn and Riga, the Old Town of Vilnius will seem positively gargantuan. As mentioned earlier, the Old Town is one of the largest in Europe and it won’t seem nearly as congested as the other Baltic capitals.

Fewer tourists visit Vilnius when compared to the other cities as well, with most foreign visitors making a beeline for Lithuania’s exquisite coast rather than taking the time to head inland and explore the beautiful baroque charms of the capital. So if you want to get further off the beaten tourist path, I would recommend travelling to Vilnius vs Riga or Tallinn.

There are a number of things to do in the city, but certainly one of the best things is to just get lost and wander through the wonderful cobbled streets.

There are a number of lush, green parks, great streetside cafes in the summer, and interesting museums to pop into as well. Vilnius is also famous for its myriad churches, the most notable of which is the gothic St Anne’s Church, which stands in contrast to the rest of the architecture of the city.

The Republic of Uzupis, a neighbourhood on the other side of the river and within easy reach of the Old Town, is another tourist highlight, especially if you’re interested in seeing Vilnius’ alternative side.

Seen as the bohemian part of town, there is a lot of street art in this area along with some cool, independent shops, trendy cafes and craft beer bars, and some of the best restaurants in the city.

Much like the other capitals, it is incredibly easy to visit Vilnius and not once sample Lithuanian cuisine. There is a fantastic restaurant scene in the city and you can eat at some very high-end and innovative restaurants for much less than you would pay in Western European cities.

If it is traditional food you are after, however, you will find that Lithuanian food doesn’t differ all that much from that of its Latvian neighbours to the north. However, there is also a significant Polish influence in Lithuanian cuisine that will certainly make itself known early on.

There is also potential to eat great international food, from fantastic pizza to Georgian cuisine . Vilnius has a lot of choices and has the potential to become something of a “foodie capital” in the next couple of years, so come now before the masses discover it!

Unlike Tallinn and Riga, Vilnius has largely managed to avoid the stag and hen do scene so going out is a lot more of a mellow affair in this city.

Even though Lithuania’s capital hasn’t attracted inebriated bachelors and bachelorettes quite like its neighbours, that doesn’t mean that the nightlife scene is lacking. With some of the cheapest booze prices in the EU and a number of trendy cocktail bars and nightclubs, Vilnius truly comes alive after dark.

It is worth noting, however, that Lithuania has some of the most restrictive liquor laws in the EU. Their drinking age was recently raised to 20 and it is illegal to purchase alcohol after 8 PM Monday-Saturday and 3 PM on Sunday, however, this law does not apply to restaurants and bars. It is also illegal to have an open container of alcohol on the street.

These laws are unlikely to affect a fun weekend away, though, and really only means that there won’t be any drunk 18-year-olds in your nightclub queue.

The final straw in comparing the Baltic capitals will likely come down to affordability and for that, Vilnius will probably take the cake.

In general, prices in Lithuania’s capital are roughly 10% less expensive than Riga and 15-20% less expensive than Tallinn.

Another selling point for visiting Vilnius over the other Baltic capitals is that there isn’t much of a price difference in or outside of the Old Town. Basically, that means that you can eat or stay in there without sacrificing quality or taking a significant hit to your bank account.

Accommodation prices in Vilnius are also affordable with a lot of options for both the ultra-budget or the more high-end traveller.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

Vilnius is gaining popularity as a tourist destination and there are a lot of great places to stay in the city. Contrary to the advice we gave about Tallinn or Riga, we would recommend staying in either the Old Town or Uzupis areas of Vilnius.

Because the historic centre is so large compared to the other capitals, it can be fairly inconvenient to stay outside of it, especially if you are only visiting for a couple of days. Here are our top picks for places to stay in Vilnius :

Hotel Rinno – Centrally located within the Vilnius Old Town, this boutique hotel comes very highly rated. They have a range of rooms on offer and also have breakfast included in the room rate.

Old Town Trio – If you’re looking for a great hotel located at the edge of Vilnius’ Old Town, then this is a great choice for you. They have a number of stylish and modern rooms to choose from and there is even an option to include breakfast!

Jimmy Jumps House/Hostel – Located on a quiet street just off the Town Hall Square, this small hostel is the perfect place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. They have both dorm and private rooms at affordable prices and also include breakfast in the room rate. They also organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Vilnius!

Tallinn or Riga or Vilnius? The Verdict

All three Baltic capitals have something unique to offer visitors and it can be really difficult to figure out which to visit, especially if you only have time to travel to one!

All in all, if you’re looking for Nordic charms without making a massive dent in your bank account, then Tallinn is the choice for you.

If you love beautiful architecture and are looking to spend your weekend partying until dawn, then it’s time to book that flight to Riga!

If neither of these options appeals to you and you’re looking for the best value-for-money city break where you won’t get bored, then Vilnius certainly won’t disappoint.

No matter which Baltic capital you choose to visit, one thing is certain: you will have a hard time heading home once your short trip is over.

Choosing between Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius can be a daunting task, with each city having so much to offer travellers. If you can only choose one, take the time to figure out exactly what it is you want from a city break to figure out the best Baltic city to visit!

Are you trying to decide between Baltic capitalsd? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

A Traveller’s Guide To Latvian Food And Drink

12 Best Things To Do In Saaremaa, Estonia

How Much Will a Baltics Trip Cost?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Great article. were considering one of these capitals for Christmas markets this year, can you add anything around this?. we are a couple with a 4 year old, any idea which would be best for a Christmas getaway? thanks

Hi James – all three capitals have great Christmas markets to explore, but Tallinn’s is arguably the most famous 🙂

I would like to travel to all three capitals around late September or early October. Would you recommend to start with Vilnius then go north or start with Tallinn then go south? Which capital may need more time? Thanks

About cuisine, I find that Latvian and Estonian food taste pretty different although things might look similar. For example, Latvian sauerkraut is marinated with vinegar, but Estonian is just fermented. Latvian and Lithuanian cuisine seem to be far more potato based than Estonian. What I mean is that there’s no such thing as common “Baltic” cuisine, and actually even culture at all. It’s worth mentioning that ethnic Estonians are a Finnic nation with closest ties to Finns culturally, linguistically and even genetically. They don’t really have much in common with the two real Baltic nations of Latvians and Lithuanians, except some cultural similarities with Latvians that come from Lutheranism that has been the most prominent religion in most of Northern Europe. Estonia is considered Baltic because of Soviet geopolitical view which is still widespread internationally. I don’t write this comment as a criticism, but rather as a nugget of new information 🙂

Thanks for your insight, Carl!

Very helpful article, thank you. We are deciding which of these cities to visit in May 2022. Riga sounds like a must-do, and maybe Tallinn after that.

Thanks for your comment, Chris! It’s honestly so hard to choose between these cities as all three have something unique to offer and are worth visiting. Hope you have a great time in the Baltics 🙂

Which is friendliest?

Hi Fiona, all three have lots of friendly people. Take your pick!

tallin 100 per cent

Rented a car in Riga , drove extensively through all 3 Baltic countries for 2 weeks I recommend it for everyone 1st everything affordable 2nd The beauty of all 3 countries. i found myself in complete awe Vilanus was an amazing surprise Very beautiful city Tallinn also beautiful Riga was buy far the best of the 3 I can not wait to go back

So happy to hear that you had a great time in the Baltics, Richard! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and hope you make it back soon 🙂

We are a group of 6 travelling to Vilnius in February, discovering our ancestral home. Can you tell us what museums are open on a weekend & are we likely to find all amenities and attractions open. Thank you, pat everett

Hi Pat, most museums should be open on the weekend in Vilnius. If you want a more detailed guide to the city with all of our recommended places to see then check out our Vilnius itinerary here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/great-things-to-do-in-vilnius/

The old town to Vilnius is unbeatable.

Loved Vilnius. So now I’ve booked for Tallin and Riga too 🙂

Thanks for your comment, Anthony, and I’m glad you enjoyed Vilnius. Hope you have a great time in Tallinn and Riga, too. Both are lovely cities with a lot to offer 🙂

Visited Vilnius in October and Christmas last year…Fantastic city.No problems with language, nice architecture, and good food….Highly recommended! Going to visit Riga in September this year…..Looking forward to seeing this city……

Always a good choice! But Tallinn and Riga definitely have their merits, as well 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Baltic Tour: Itinerary for Tallinn, Riga & Vilnius (10 days) in the Baltics

Are you considering where to travel next? You don’t need to look any further. Baltic States, located in the north-eastern Europe, on the shore of Baltic Sea, are perfect getaway destinations. These three small countries can be visited within a week but we’d suggest spending at least 10 days there. This will let you see the UNESCO listed capitals, do some day trips to the surrounding nature and learn about their interesting history and traditions. Baltic States are still considered as off the beaten path destinations so get there before they get too crowded and overpriced. Book your Baltic tour now and get ready for a magical adventure. 

Best Starting Point for Your Baltic Tour

Most people start their Baltic trip either in Vilnius or Tallinn. Both countries have relatively small airports but in terms of logistics, it would make the most sense. Riga has the biggest airport but that would make travelling through all three countries a bit more complicated. Alternatively Helsinki, in Finland, has great connections with the rest of the world and is only a 2h ferry ride from Tallinn. Helsinki also is worth a couple of nights stay so when checking flights, consider a stopover in Helsinki. 

Down south, Warsaw, in Poland, could be replaced with flying out of/to Vilnius. It’s not that close to Vilnius but Warsaw is well connected and the city itself is worth a couple of nights stay. If you have more time and can’t find good flights to the Baltic States, it would make sense to extend your trip to either Helsinki & Warsaw or both. If you’re doing the Baltic States trip for 10 days, we’d suggest spending 3 nights in each capital.

Travel to Estonia - Welcome Tallinn!

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a lively yet peaceful, photogenic and charming city full of wonderful sights and rich culture. A city that combines the modern world with ancient churches, medieval streetscapes and noble merchants’ houses. The UNESCO listed Old Town is one of the best preserved Hansaetic town centres in the world. 

Once you arrive, head out to the old town and wander around the cobble stoned streets, narrow alleyways and charming courtyards. A stone’s throw away you’ll find the city’s business centre with modern towers, trendy bohemian neighbourhoods, manicured 18th-century park, promenades and sandy beaches. 

In the evening check out some of the viewing platforms with beautiful views over Tallinn. If you have more energy we suggest climbing up St. Olaf’s Church where you can get a birds-eye view of the Old Town and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Finish the evening with a nice meal and a drink in one of the cosy restaurants in the old town. Read from our blog what are the best bars in Tallinn worth visiting. 

Discover Tallinn Old Town

On your first full day we suggest doing Tallinn city tour with a local guide. That’s a great way to meet some local people, learn about the history, hear interesting stories and get a better understanding of the city you’re visiting. 

In the afternoon we suggest you wander outside the old town and visit some surrounding areas. Kadriorg park and palace, built more than 300 years ago on the orders of Russian Tsar Peter the Great, is a must see. You can also find multiple museums in the park that are worth visiting.

Alternatively head to vibrant Telliskivi Creative City with numerous design shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. Rotermann Quarter, a former industrial centre turned into one of the city’s most prominent oases of modern architecture or the newest addition to the city – Noblessner seafront quarter. A former submarine factory, now a modern urban space filled with galleries, design shops, a marina, and restaurants perfect for admiring the sunset. 

All these places are great for an evening meal and drinks. Head to one of these places to put a nice end to your second day in Tallinn. 

Best Day Trips From Tallinn

Tallinn is a relatively small city so on your third day we suggest leaving the city behind and doing a small (half)day trip to the surrounding areas. Estonia’s pristine nature is waiting to be discovered. Head to Lahemaa National park for charming fishing villages, sandy beaches, picturesque bogs and historic manor houses. 

If you’re a fan of Soviet history head to Paldiski and on the way there check out the Rummu Prison quarry. One of the most photographed places in Estonia, where half submerged buildings are visible in crystal clear light blue water. 

If you want to get active while admiring the beautiful Estonian nature we suggest doing a bogshoe hiking tour. The bogs are places very dear to all Estonians and have been part of the culture for centuries. Therefore one mustn’t leave Estonia before visiting a bog. There’s no better way to visit a bog than on bogshoes. That way you can get to otherwise inaccessible places.

Travel to Latvia - Welcome Riga!

It’s time to change one country to another and travel to Latvia and its capital Riga. Riga is a true architectural jewel. You can find churches from the city’s origins, medieval buildings, unique examples of Art Nouveau, as well as centuries old wooden architecture and modern architecture there. Riga’s Old Town and its surrounding city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although its old town helped the city achieve this status, it’s the Art Nouveau architecture that really sets the city apart from other European capitals. 

Before arriving in Riga we suggest stopping at the Gauja National Park. This beautiful national park is great for nature lovers and anyone who’s interested in cultural and historic sights. Plenty of activities can be done in the park from hiking to biking. A visit to Cesis and Turaida castles are a must if you’re interested in medieval atmosphere and history. Visiting small producers and tasting their products are always an experience to remember. There are plenty of these around the national park. For amazing views take a cable car ride over Gauja River and for the adventurers, visiting the famous bob-sleigh track and trying out bob-sleighing (open on weekends) is a must.

In the afternoon, once you arrive in Riga, walk through the charming streets in the old town and get acquainted with this beautiful city. Finish the day with a nice dinner and drinks in the Old Town. Read from our blog what are some of the must try dishes of the Baltic States. 

Discover Riga Old Town

Next day we suggest you do a short city tour of Riga. Walk through the winding streets and cobbled alleys of Riga’s Old Town and discover the hidden past from 1201 all the way to the present day. This will be the perfect introduction to Riga and its people. Continue the tour to the famous Riga Central Market which is one of Europe’s largest markets covering 72 000m2, built from five zeppelin hangers left over from the First World War. After the tour you will have a chance to stay at the market to explore it more and to have lunch there. There’s a small food court there where you can try some local food or why don’t you buy some fresh fruit, bread, cheese and local delicacies and have a picnic near the river. 

In the afternoon head to the Art Nouveau district. Alberta Street is a good place to start and you can also find the Art Nouveau Museum there. If you’d like to see the popular tourism objects from a different angle, take a scenic boat ride around the canals. You may also wish to catch a show at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet or join an organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. 

In the evening head to Miera ielas Republic. This arts quarter has various cafes, bars, shops and other establishments. Occasionally the area hosts various arts and crafts fairs and festivals.

Best Day Trips from Riga

Your Baltic vacation and trip to Latvia wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t escape Riga to enjoy some of the small towns in the surrounding areas. We could suggest a day tour to picturesque countryside and a true hidden gem, Kuldīga! Small and unique villages of Kurzeme all have their little twists. Wander around the quaint streets of the gorgeous historic centre of Kuldīga, visit the widest-stretching waterfall in Europe and have some free time to have lunch and explore the city on your own.

If you are not afraid of a long day, combine the visit to Kuldiga with a stop in Jurmala beach resort town. Although Jurmala is mostly known for its beach, there are plenty of other things to do around Jurmala. Jurmala Open-Air Museum is worth a visit, to learn about the fishermen’s work and life. Another must see is The Great Ķemeri Bog where you can walk along the boardwalks and admire this pristine nature. If you missed the bogs in Estonia, then this is your chance to visit one. Jurmala can also be done as a half day trip from Riga. It’s easy to get there by train or bus and even by bike. 

Travel to Lithuania - Welcome Vilnius!

It’s time to travel to Lithuania and its capital Vilnius. This vibrant city is full of history, culture, art, quirky neighbourhoods and cool and happening bars and restaurants. The UNESCO listed Vilnius Old Town is one of the world’s largest surviving medieval old towns, full of Baroque, Gothic, Neoclassical, and Renaissance architecture. 

Before arriving in Vilnius we suggest stopping at the baroque pearl, Rundale Palace where you can explore the palace and the gardens. The magnificent palace was built as a grand residence for the Duke of Courland and nowadays it’s a beautiful museum and one of the major tourist destinations in Latvia. After your stop there we suggest heading to the UNESCO listed pilgrimage site, Hill of Crosses in Lithuania.

Once you arrive in Vilnius, head out to the old town and walk around the city’s cobbled streets. For beautiful views of the city check out the Bell Tower of St. John’s Church or Gediminas Castle Tower. In the evening dine in one of the many restaurants in the old town. Vilnius has a great mixture of Lithuanian, Jewish, Polish, and Russian cultures, evident in the delicious food that can all be found in this vibrant city. You can find some great suggestions on our destinations page. 

Discover Vilnius Old Town

Next day we suggest you do a short city tour of Vilnius with a local guide. Wander around the UNESCO recognised Old Town, filled with magnificent landmarks and have the chance to really get in touch with the vibrant culture of Vilnius. Have the local craft beer at our favourite cafe, try some Lithuanian specialities and fall in love with this fascinating city.

After your tour you will have some free time to explore Vilnius in more depth. Head out to Europe’s most creative community – the Republic of Užupis which has its own constitution and president. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights which was originally the KGB headquarters and prison, it was also the site of torture and execution, so some people might find the prison a little overwhelming. You may also wish to take a walk to reach places such as the Hill of Three Crosses or St Peter & St Paul’s Church – a white miracle of belief.

Best Day Trips from Vilnius

Your trip to Lithuania wouldn’t be complete without exploring the beautiful Trakai. Located less than an hour’s drive from Vilnius, this is an easy and fun day trip to take. It’s your chance to leave the city’s hustle and bustle behind and explore more of Lithuania. Upon arrival explore the historic town and well preserved ruins of Trakai Castle, set on its own island in Lake Galvė. The view of the historic structure is straight out of a fairy tale. You can either visit the museum inside the castle or enjoy a boat ride around the island and the castle and admire the surrounding nature. Alternatively it’s possible to do a sunset or sunrise balloon flight over the castle and lakes. This is truly a memorable experience to do.

If you have more time and want to explore the Lithuanian countryside even further, head to Dargužiai community centre and learn about Lithuanian traditions by taking a hands-on workshop of old Lithuanian crafts. If you’re interested in the domestic life, work and traditions of Lithuanian peasants and city dwellers, head to Rumšiškės Ethnographic Museum . 

Interested in a Baltic Tour? Contact us for more information and customised trip plan or check out some of the sample trip plans below: 

Baltic Trip Ideas

Classic Baltic Tour

10 Days / 9 Nights

Baltic Capitals Tour

Complete Baltic Holiday

16 Days / 15 Nights

Active Baltic Adventure

Baltic Christmas Experience

8 Days / 7 Nights

Privacy Overview

• Destinations

baltic travel group

• Business Travel Management
• Business Travel Services
• Technologies
• Conferences
• Sports Events
• Sustainable Events
• Team-building events
• Case Studies: Results in Action
• Cruise handling and shore excursions
• Group Travel
• Individual Travel
• Special Interest tours
• Tour Series
• Our Tour Packages
• Legal Details
• Sustainability

General inquiry

For general questions

+371 29190038

[email protected]

Business Travel

Corporate travel inquiries and support

+371 26680680

[email protected]

Meetings & Events

Event organization planning & support

+371 27886756

[email protected]

Inbound Tours

Travel experience within the Baltics

+371 26199055

[email protected]

Baltic Tours & Trips

• Choose from 200+ Baltic tours
• 1,000+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Baltic tour packages

Compiled by

Steff Baltic travel expert at TourRadar

Stunning Baltics End Warsaw (7 destinations)

Stunning baltics end berlin (11 destinations), the best of baltic highlights in 8 days, 4* hotels (guaranteed departure), helsinki to warsaw new year, helsinki to warsaw, customized best poland tour with daily departure, absolute baltic - 8 days, highlights of baltic states in 8 days (guaranteed departure), best of baltics (winter, 8 days), the best of poland and the baltics in 13 days (guaranteed departure).

“We are very happy with the trip.” FrancescColl Bonada, traveled in May 2024

• See Trakai Castle on an island in Lithuania
• Visit Turaida Castle and stroll in Sigulda
• Discover Warsaw's Old Town and Royal Palace

“Outstanding itinerary, food, and accommodation. Great local guides.” Peter Norris, traveled in June 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Tour the Baroque Palace of Rundale and Trakai Castle
• Explore medieval Tallinn's walls and churches
• Visit the monumental Salaspils Memorial complex

“Hotels were perfect and all in or close to the city center. This was a great value foe the money.” Gregory Lanzon, traveled in August 2023

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Explore Vilnius Old Town and its historic sites
• Stroll through medieval Tallinn and its ancient buildings
• Discover Riga's Old Town and architectural treasures

“Very knowledgeable on information places we visited. Luke you made the tour something that we will always remember.” Beatrix Lourens, traveled in August 2024

• Walking Adventure
• Cruise from Helsinki to Tallinn
• Explore Helsinki's iconic landmarks
• Tour medieval Gdansk and Warsaw

“This is our second tour with Expat Explore, we are very happy with them.” Ling Ming Teoh, traveled in July 2024

• Experience the scenic Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing
• Enjoy free days in Helsinki and Gdansk
• Enjoy locally-guided tours of Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Gdansk, Helsinki and Warsaw

“Transportation between cities by private car was excellent. I would have liked a higher grade hotels in some cities.” Art, traveled in August 2024

• Stroll through historic Torun
• Ride the funicular up Gubalowka Hill
• Tour Auschwitz-Birkenau with an expert

• Discover Riga's Old Town and historical architecture
• Visit the sacred Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace
• Explore medieval Vilnius and its iconic landmarks

“The driver was excellent and the coach very comfortable. The Radisson Blu hotels were all good.” BENJAMIN PETYAN, traveled in June 2024

• Tour the charming medieval city of Tallinn
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of Gauja National Park
• Discover Riga's Old Town and historical landmarks

• Christmas & New Year
• Tour the historic Cēsis Castle in Latvia
• Discover Trakai Castle on Lake Galve
• Taste local delicacies in Estonia

“We have enjoyed the tour tremendously! Well organized.” Mona, traveled in August 2019

• Discover the charm of Vilnius Old Town
• Tour Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum
• See Riga's iconic Freedom Monument

More about Baltic

Discover TourRadar

The Perfect, Magical 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

When I first visited the Baltic Countries, I felt like I was discovering some hidden gem. Here were three beautiful countries, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, not overtaken by tourism, boasting natural wonders and quaint cities, all for an affordable price. I had less than two weeks to explore all three countries. If you’re short on time as well, here is some information on the Baltics and the perfect 10 day Baltic itinerary. 

Disclosure: I only recommend products and services that I have used myself, and that I would recommend to a friend. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. Meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn compensation if you click through and make a purchase.

Table of Contents

The Baltic states are wedged between the Baltic Sea to the west, and Russia to the east. 

Estonia is the northernmost country. North of Estonia is the Gulf of Finland, with Finland (obviously) on the other side of the gulf. 

Latvia is in the middle, and in addition to Russia, shares a border with Belarus. 

Lithuania is the southernmost Baltic country, and only shares borders with Poland, Belarus, and the Baltic Sea. 

History of the Baltics

Because of their location, the Baltic states have had a tumultuous history. 

Numerous powers, including the Danes, Swedes, Poles, Germans, and Russians, tried to take over Latvia and Estonia because of their ports for centuries. 

Lithuania used to hold a lot of territory in Europe until the 16th century when it became part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth

In the 18th century, Imperial Russia took control of all three countries. But, after the collapse of so many governments following World War I, all three countries got their independence in 1922. 

But then, WWII happened in 1940, and the Baltic countries were under the control of the Soviet Union. 

All three regained their independence in 1991. And are now part of the European Union.

Sources 1 , 2 , and 3

Most Lithuanians identify as Roman Catholic, around 3/4 of Latvians identified as Christian  , and in Estonia, over 50% of the population states no religion . 

With that being said, Pagan roots do run deep in the Baltics. Lithuania was the last country in Europe to convert to Christianity. 

More and more people in the Baltics are turning away from Christianity and embracing their Pagan roots. All three Baltic countries celebrate winter and summer solstice. People build bonfires, sing songs, and wear masks. 

 Folklore, singing, and dancing are also important in Baltic culture, as is a deep appreciation for nature. There are sacred groves in Estonia, graveyards dispersed among the forests in Latvia, and our guide in Lithuania told stories of spirits in little wooded corners in Vilnius. 

Official Languages 

Each country speaks a different language, Estonians speak Estonian. A language greatly influenced by the Finnish language. 

Lithuanians speak Lithuanian, and Latvians speak Latvian. Both are Indo-European languages.

Lithuanian is the closest language on the planet to Sanskrit. Which is pretty neat. 

English is widely spoken by people, especially younger people, in cities. In more rural areas you may have a harder time finding people who speak English. Most everyone at tourist destinations can speak a little bit of English.

Are the Baltics Safe?

All three countries are extremely safe. According to the US Department of State Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia all have a travel advisory of Level 1 (the lowest level).

Of course, normal precautions should be taken. And more crime takes place near bus stations, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Most crime involves pickpocketing or robbery. This is the same in almost every European, nay, every city around the world. 

Be smart, take normal precautions, and you will be fine.

The Best Time to Visit Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia

Because of their geographical location, Baltic countries have very short days in the winter, and longer days during the summer. 

This makes summer a great time to visit the Baltic countries. May-September will give you great weather, even though you may see a few more tourists. If you visit during summer, expect mild temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 21 degrees centigrade. 

The winters are long, and cold. We visited all three countries during the winter, and the snow and Christmas markets were quite magical. But, it was dark by 3:30-4 pm. We spent a lot of time wandering in darkness. And it was  cold.   The temperature frequently drops below 30 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees centigrade. Make sure you bring hats, scarves, gloves, and warm clothes if you visit during the winter. 

Unless you specifically want to see the sites in winter (which are quite spectacular) come to the Baltics during the summer to get the most out of the daylight!

Baltic Currency and Cost

All three countries use the Euro as their official currency, which makes traveling between them a breeze. 

Use a travel credit card with no international transaction fees. Most places accept credit cards, including shops and restaurants. Some local farmers markets and such will only take cash.

Use an ATM to take out money, they are plentiful in cities throughout the Baltics. If your bank charges a fee, take out large sums of money, that way you don’t pay as many fees. Make sure to let your bank know you will be traveling before you leave your home country!

As far as the costs, everything in the Baltics is relatively cheap, from food to hotels. Lithuania is perhaps the cheapest country, and Estonia the most expensive. Either way, a trip to these places will not break the bank.  

Getting There

If you’re flying, you will want to fly into a major city to save yourself some time and money. I recommend flying into Vilnius, Lithuania, or Tallinn, Estonia. This way, you can complete your Baltic itinerary from north to south, or south to north. 

My Baltic itinerary, will focus on a north to south itinerary, starting in Tallinn and ending in Vilnius. 

Remember, you can always find a larger city in Europe and then take a train or a cheap flight into either Tallinn or Vilnius. I recommend using the hopper app to locate cheap flights or  Skyscanner.

Getting Around the Baltics

I highly recommend renting a car. It is very easy to drive in the Baltics, and a car rental will allow you to see more of the countryside. We rented a car for 10 days and it costs about 200-275 euros. 

Make sure you choose hotels with parking included so you don’t pay extra fees! Also ensure you have an international drivers license. No one ever asked to see ours, but just in case, have one with you if you choose to rent a car.

If you do not want to rent a car, you can take a bus.  Ecolines   and Lux Express  are two bus lines that operate in the Baltics. Prices are around 20 euros between cities. 

You can also take a train. There is no direct train from Tallinn to Riga, but you can get there with one stop. 

Or, you can fly between cities using Baltic Air.  

Getting Around the Cities

In most of these places, walking will be more than sufficient.

Public transport such as busses, trolleybuses, and trams are available in all three cities. 

Uber is prevalent in Tallinn and Vilnius and is very affordable and convenient. Uber is not available, however, in Riga. But, you can download the app Bolt, very similar to Uber, and use that instead. 

Don’t Forget the Beaches

Although this Baltic itinerary focuses mainly on the cities and interior of the Baltic countries, don’t forget about the wonderful Baltic sea that runs the coast of all three countries. 

If you visit during the summer especially, make sure to add a day trip to your Baltic itinerary to see a gorgeous beach. Here are 7 of the most beautiful Baltic beaches for you to get some ideas!

My 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

• Day 1-4 Tallinn
•  Optional Day Trip to Helsinki
•  Other Options for Day Trips
• Day 5-7 Riga
•  Optional Day trip to Kemeri National Park
• Day 8-10 Lithuania
•  Optional Day trips to Trakai Castle/Panamune Road/Hill of Crosses/Ninth Fort/Kaunus/Devils Museum/WItches Hill/Grutas Park
•  Other Optional Day Trips

My Suggestions for Your 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

To make the most out of your Baltic itinerary, I suggest you spend about 1-2 days in each capital city (Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius). This will give you enough time to see most of the major sites.

After your days in the city, take 1 day trip in each country.

Countries are most than just their cities. And there are some pretty awesome day trip suggestions on this Baltic itinerary!

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 1-4: Tallinn 

Start your Baltic Itinerary in Tallinn (note, you can also start this Baltic itinerary in Vilnius and work your way north, just reverse the cities!) When you first arrive in Estonia, you’ll probably think that you’ve arrived in Finland. The nordic vibe is strong here, and the minimalist architecture of the houses and buildings outside of the city center will have you imagining Scandinavia.

I found the people to be quite reserved and a bit blunt, but still polite. 

When you arrive in Estonia, grab an Uber to your hotel. You will most likely be arriving late to the city. 

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Try to stay as close to the Old Town as your budget will allow. 

We stayed a bit outside of the center because of our budget. We got ubers into the city center for 5 or 6 euros. So it was not a big deal. 

Grab a bite to eat when you arrive. I recommend asking the front desk for a good place to eat close to your hotel. After your meal, take a stroll through the beautiful Old Town of Tallinn. 

Walking Tour

On your first full day of Tallinn, take a walking tour. I recommend the Tallinn in a Nutshell Walking Tour or T allinn Free Walking Tour.

Both tours will give you a great history of Estonia, and cover the major sites of the city including: 

• Nevsky Cathedral
• St. Mary’s Church
• Town Hall Square
• Freedom Square
• City Wall Towers

Make sure you tip your guide! 

The tours are usually about 2-3 hours long, combine that with breakfast and lunch and you’re looking at a half-day activity. We took some time after our tour to wander around more back streets in Tallinn.

The Times We Had Sign

Our tour led us to The Times We Had Sign on the viewing platform. If for some reason they don’t, here is a great blog that will tell you how to arrive at the sign. Make sure you snag a picture and take in the view!

Christmas Markets (Mid November through First Week in January)

If you go in late December or early January (like we did) make sure you check out the Tallinn Christmas Market in Tallinn’s Town Hall Square.

It is magical. You’ll get to sample great food, wine, treats, and shop for souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry as you wander between the booths. 

Shopping and Wandering

The Balti Jaama Turg Market is a must-do in the city! Don’t miss the Turg market. This market is wonderful for grabbing some food and doing a little bit of shopping! 

Go to Telliskivi Creative City for a bit of cool street art. 

There are also some awesome bars and restaurants to explore in this part of town! 

Sauna and spa culture is readily apparent in Tallinn. If you visit during the cold winter months, this is a great way to warm up!

Check out this website for some of the spas in Tallinn.

Our Favorite restaurant in Tallinn is F-Hoone. Our favorite part of the meal was getting to break the creme brulee.  

The Creative City has tons of cool restaurants and bars. Wander around and find your favorite!

Seaplane Harbour is a popular museum in Tallinn. The museum houses old submarines and ships. The KGB museum explains the history of the KGB in Estonia, make sure you book a tour in advance! 

Other museums include Kumu art museum, Niguliste Museum, Peter the Great House Museum, Kiek in de Kok and Bastion Passages Museum, Marzipan Gallery, and many more. 

Glehn Park and Estonian Open Air Museum

If you want to see a few sites just outside the city, these two attractions are good options. Getting to the Estonian Open Air Museum by car is quite easy with a GPS. You can also take bus 21 or 21B to get to the museum. 

The Estonian Open Air Museum  depicts life on a farm during the 18th to 20th centuries. It was closed when we went but we still got a little bit of a view over the fence.

We also drove to Glehn Park to admire some statues. Bus 10, 20, or 20A will get you to the park. 

You can take the Glehn Park Loop which is about 1.5 miles long. The statues are quite neat. 

The main statue is a depiction of Kalevipoeg, a hero in Estonian Folklore.  

Optional Day Trip to Helsinki

Around two days is sufficient to see the main sites and explore a bit of Tallinn. Take another day and get out of the city on a day trip!

We highly recommend taking a ferry to Helsinki! And spending the day in another country. We took the first ferry out, and the second to last ferry back (the next day had a long drive so we didn’t want to get back too late.) Check all of the ferry times and get your tickets here.  

You can take a quick Uber to the dock from your hotel, make sure to arrive a bit early.

The ride takes about 2.5 hours, and it is  rough. 

I was sweating and seasick for the entire trip. The boat has no seasick medication on board (believe me, my boyfriend checked.) If you do get sick easily, a lower deck is better for you.

Once you arrive in Helsinki, prepare for the prices. It is expensive. We had granola bars as snacks and split one meal in the city.

Here are some must-see sites in Helsinki:

• Senate Square
• Helsinki Cathedral
• Market Square
• Suomenlinna 

Suomenlinna can only be reached by a 15-minute ferry ride. The island is quite beautiful, and worth visiting if you come here for your day trip. 

If you go during the winter you can do a fun activity and hunt for gnomes all over the island. You get a prize if you find all of them! Check in at the visitor’s center for a map before you begin wandering.

Other Options for Day Trips 

If Helsinki doesn’t appeal to you for a day trip, check out these other options for day trips from Tallinn.

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 5-7: Riga 

Next on your Baltic itinerary is Riga.

I found Riga to be even more beautiful than Tallinn, but I know a lot of people disagree. 

The city felt a bit rougher, a bit more real. There were a lot more shops and restaurants and bars in the city. And people seemed a lot friendlier, shopkeepers went out of their way to make conversation with us. 

Depending on your mode of transportation, you will probably get into Riga in the afternoon or evening. Download the Bolt app for a ride from the airport. Just like in Tallinn, don’t feel like you have to rush, take a walk around the Old Town, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat. 

Where to Stay in Riga

Try to get a hotel close to the Old Town. 

We stayed in the Gogol Park Hotel, which was about a 15-minute walk to the center. We didn’t mind the walk, and the hotel was very nice, with free parking

See the Main Sites

You can take another free walking tour  or wander on your own to see the main sites. 

This walking tour company is pretty neat because there are two options, one option will show you the main areas in Riga, and the other tour will lead you to “the real Riga” You will go to places like the Riga Central Market, Moscow district, and Warehouse District.

Take Some Awesome Pictures in Vecriga

Wander around this UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire all of the beautiful homes, little shops, and cobblestoned streets. The best time to see the side streets of Riga Old Town is first thing in the morning. The streets are blissfully empty and you feel like you’re in a fairytale with all of the beautiful colored buildings and cute nooks and crannies and side streets. 

Once you wander a bit, make your way to some of the famous sites. If you didn’t have the chance to take a walking tour, that is.

Here is a wonderful self-paced tour that will allow you to see most of the main sites in the city!

• Riga Castle
• Three Brothers
• Riga Cathedral
• Riga Town Hall Square
• House of the Black Heads
• St. Peter’s Church
• Bremen Town Musicians
• Freedom Monument
• Riga Nativity of Christ Cathedral

If you still have some time, check out one of the numerous museums in the city. My favorites include the KGB building, Musee Art Nouveau, and the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum. 

Others include Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum, Riga Motormuseum, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, and Latvian National Museum of Art, and so many more. 

Christmas Market

The Christmas markets in Riga are also quite beautiful. There are markets at Cathedral Square, Kalnciema Quarter, Esplanade Park, Riga Central Market, and Livu Laukums.

Livu Laukums was the only Christmas market open when we visited. There was food, trinkets, and jewelry, and clothing. 

Optional Day trip to Kemeri National Park

Before we left for Lithuania, we decided we wanted to see a bit of the countryside on the Great Kemari bog walk in Kemeri National Park. 

The Loop itself is about 3.1 miles. The scenery is quite startling. There is not a lot of vegetation or plant diversity, but it is still so beautiful. 

If you want to make a whole day of the bog, or don’t have a car, check out this company  that promises a 7-hour tour including the bog and other natural wonders around Latvia. 

Options for Day Trips  

If Kemeri National Park isn’t your thing, check out these other options for day trips from Riga.

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 8-10: Vilnius 

The last few days of your Baltic itinerary will be spent in Vilnius.

Lithuania holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps because on my mom’s side, my grandmother’s parents, and grandfather’s grandparents, were both from Lithuania. 

My 23 and me results declare me to be about 30% Lithuanian. It seems strange that in another life, I may have been raised in Lithuania.

The people in Lithuania are strong, with big eyes and strong features. They are quite reserved, and can appear standoffish, but I found them to be super helpful, and nice when I asked a question or made polite conversation. 

Arriving in Vilnius

We decided to take a bus from the airport to the Old Town. It only costs 1 euro (you can pay the driver when you get on) and takes you right to the old town. Take bus #88 from the airport and the stop is  Aušros  vartai  or Trakų stops. 

You can also call an Uber. I would avoid the taxis but if you have to take one, agree on a price beforehand. 

Where to Stay

Try to stay in the Old Town of Vilnius. 

We stayed right near the Gate of Dawn in a former monastery called the Domus Maria Hotel. It was quite a nice experience. 

Vilnius Free Walking Tour

We started our time in Vilnius with a free walking tour. This company  has two tour options. The Old Town Tour and the Undiscovered Tour. We took the Old Town tour since it was our first time in the city.

From their website, the Old Town Tour promises the following sites:

•  Cathedral Square and its surroundings
• Vilnius University
• The presidential palace
• The Town Hall and its surroundings
• The Republic of Užupis
• St Anne’s and Bernardine churches, the gothic corner of Vilnius

The tour takes about 2.5 hours, remember to tip your guide! If you decide to skip the walking tour, make sure you don’t miss the sites above!

Other Sites to See

Don’t miss the  Gate of Dawn . Legend has it that the painting of the Virgin Mary comes to the protection of the people of Lithuania when they need her. 

If you want a great view of the city, hike up to the  Three Cross Memorial . You will get an amazing, panoramic view of the whole city. The hike to  Gediminas tower  is also nice, but the view is not quite as good. 

The  Church of St. Peter and St. Paul  is touted as one of the most beautiful Catholic churches in the world. The inside of the church is filled with over 2,000 statues!

If you’re interested in visiting churches, there is an abundance of them in the city, click  here  to see 28 churches in Vilnius Old Town. 

Museums in Vilnius

I am not a huge fan of museums. But the Museum of Illusions does look pretty interesting! Enjoy illusions of all kinds as you wander through this funky museum.  

Here  is a list of all the museums you can enjoy in Vilnius!

Pilies Street

Visit Pilies street for some arts and crafts, and maybe even a local festival. The street is beautiful with a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. 

Cathedral Square, City Hall, and Bernardinai Gardens Christmas Markets

These Christmas markets go until Epiphany, so even if you visit Vilnius the first week of January the markets will be open. 

The decorations are festive, the food is great, and there are lots of goods to buy in these markets.

The Republic of Uzupis

Spend some more time in Uzupis. The Republic started as a joke and is now considered to be the smallest republic in the world. It covers about 1 square km, but there is a president, government, and constitution.

The constitution hangs on the wall and includes clauses like “everyone has the right to be happy” and “a dog has a right to be a dog.”

It is an artist’ community where you can see interactive artwork, and interesting sculptures. 

People seem happy here, and very loving. 

Optional Day trips

Trakai Castle

This attraction is located about 45 minutes outside of Vilnius. To get here you can drive, take a bus, or take a train. Check Rome2Rio  to see bus numbers and train options! 

Perhaps the most popular day trip from Vilnius is Trakai Castle. There is a beautiful park, and you can see the castle on the island. 

Panamune Road and Castles

If you love castles, think about taking a drive on Panamune Road. You will stop at Raudondvaris, Raudone, and Panemune castle. You may need a car for this one, but some tour companies add the castle to other popular itineraries!

Hill of Crosses

When we visited Lithuania, we did Hills of Crosses, Ninth Fort, Kaunus, and the Devils Museum all in one day.

The Hill of Crosses is by far my favorite. The atmosphere is melancholy. And the chimes of rosary beads in the wind is quite haunting. 

I highly recommend seeing the Hill of Crosses when you are in Lithuania. You can check out Viator   for tour options from Vilnius if you do not have a car. 

Ninth Fort is right outside the village of Kaunus. It is a memorial for the Jews who lost their lives here during several mass shootings in 1941. Tour groups that offer trips to Kaunus usually stop by Ninth Fort, so even if you don’t have a car you can still see this place.

You can see the sculpture, the memorial to all of the Jews who died. You can also visit the museum, which covers history about the Nazi and Soviet occupation in Lithuania.  

Kaunus/Devil’s Museum

Kaunus is a cool little city that was dressed up prettily with a Christmas market when we visited.

Wander around the square, find some great street art, and grab a bite to eat. 

I recommend Etno Dvaras for some traditional Lithuanian food.

We had traditional Lithuanian food, and it was warm and filling!

While you’re in Kaunus stop by the Devil’s museum. You’ll experience a bit of folklore from around the world. 

Witches Hill

Lithuania was the last pagan country in all of Europe. This sculpture garden shows off beautiful creatures, fairy beings, and witches from Lithuanian folklore. If you go on a longer, guided tour this may be included, otherwise you need a car.

Grutas Park

Another sculpture garden, this one with Soviet-era statues. 

There is a small entrance fee to the park. If you go on a longer, guided tour this may be included, otherwise you need a car.

Other Optional Day Trips 

If these options don’t appeal to you, check out these other ideas for day trips from Vilnius.

Final Thoughts on this 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

The Baltic countries are so wonderful, and filled with so much to do. I hope you enjoy your trip to this magical part of the world!

Love this post? Pin it!

Related Posts

The best 1 day in paris itinerary for travelers, 4 days in scotland with haggis tours, my 7 day serbia road trip plus 3 marriage proposals, write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• WORK WITH ME
• DESTINATIONS
• SOLO TRAVEL
• 10 DAY TRAVEL PROJECT
• MAGIC ADVENTURES