3 Baltic countries in 10 days!

Itinerary

A trip by car through the three Baltic countries is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the uniqueness of the region by the Baltic Sea, to see the diverse nature of the countries and to learn about their culture. Untouched and spectacular national parks, lakes, observation towers, walking trails in swamps, labyrinths of sand caves, waterfalls, an exclusive 43-meter-high cableway, colorful and well-groomed seaside resorts with white sand beaches, Old Towns full of majestic architecture reminding the ancient history of the capitals… All this you will experience during this independent trip by car in the Baltic States! 

We have created a picturesque route to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia with recommendations for places of interest, activities, and entertainment. But only you can decide where to travel and how to spend your time: choosing rest, entertainment or learning about new cultures! During this trip to the Baltic States, you will make unforgettable memories either while traveling alone or with family and friends! 

Day 1: Vilnius

Arrival to Vilnius. Free time and overnight in Vilnius. 

Day 2: Vilnius – Trakai

The first day is dedicated to getting to know the capital of Lithuania. Today, Vilnius is a modern and contemporary city, but under an all-new shiny look, the rich history is hidden. Start the day with a walking tour of Vilnius’ Old town, where you can feel the atmosphere of the city’s history of the 16-19th centuries while walking along its narrow winding streets. Don’t miss the symbols of Vilnius – the Gediminas Castle, the Gothic masterpiece of Saint Ann’s church, the old Vilnius University, the gem of Baroque – the St. Peter and Paul’s Church and the classical St. Stanislav’s Cathedral.
To fall in love with Vilnius is easy – art galleries, a variety of museums, wonderful culinary journeys in gourmet restaurants, cozy evenings in the small Old Town pubs, green parks, and unexpected experiences. Did you know that Vilnius is one of the top 5 countries, where all the sky above the majestic Old Town every day is full of colorful air balloons? Soaring over the rooftops of the city, you will see the colorful life of Vilnius, winding streets, people wandering around, and, if you are lucky, the magical sunset in a fantastic baroque city.
Spend your afternoon in Trakai, the former capital of Grand Duchy of Lithuania with its beautiful insular castle of the 14th century, situated on an island in the middle of a lake. Today it is a historical Museum of Trakai. The unique location on the peninsula surrounded by five lakes has dubbed itself the “town on the water”.
In the evening you will return to Vilnius. Overnight in Vilnius.

Day 3: Vilnius – Kaunas – Hill of Crosses – Rundale – Riga

If we need to describe Kaunas in one word, the most accurate probably would be colorful. It is a modern, constantly changing city of creative people and original ideas. During this weekend getaway to Kaunas, we will offer you to choose one of the most interesting thematic tours and discover the brightest colors of this city!
Kaunas Old Town is small and compact, nevertheless, full of original architectural sites, dating back to various historic periods. Start your historical journey to the 15th-17th centuries of Kaunas with the impressive remains of Kaunas Castle. See all the main cultural heritage sites: Vytautas the Great Church which located in a very beautiful place – on the right bank of the Nemunas river, Kaunas Town Hall Square, one of the most beautiful and most famous buildings in Kaunas Old Town. Take a walk through the pedestrian Alley of Liberty and Vilnius street, the most beautiful street in Kaunas, which combines the old and the new town.
In the afternoon you will travel towards the Latvian capital and make two stops to see remarkable sights on the way. The first stop at the famous Hill of Crosses, a mystical and unique pilgrimage site with more than 100 000 crosses from all around the world on it. It is the only place of its kind in the world, included to the Guinness Book of Records.
After crossing the border of Latvia, you will visit the ensemble of Rundale Palace, the most famous monument of Baroque and Rococo architecture in Latvia and one of the most famous in the whole Baltic region, is also located nearby. You will see the impressive representation halls, the apartments of the Duke of Courtland, the halls for solemn receptions, and admire the French palace garden. Overnight in Riga.

Day 4: Riga – Jurmala

Did you know that the Old Town of the Latvian capital is included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List as the exhibit of the biggest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe? You can find out more about this on a sightseeing tour of Riga with a local guide. You will see the charming medieval Church of St. Peter’s, the Blackheads house, which become Riga’s business card. You will also have a chance to take a look at the largest in the Baltic States Riga’s Dome Cathedral, the Monument of Freedom, and many other beautiful places.
In the afternoon, you will travel towards Jurmala and will stop to admire the tremendous Kemeri raft trail. Going through this upland swamp, you will find yourself in a real kingdom of moss, swamp pines, whirlpools, dark waters, and swamp pikes.
When you arrive in Jurmala – the main resort of Latvia by the Baltic Sea – do not rush, enjoy the fresh pine forest air, take a walk on the 26 kilometers long beach, and, of course, take a dip in the sea. The gentle white sand beach and shallow seashore are especially convenient for swimming with children. In the case of less favorable weather, we recommend entertainment at Livu Water Park, where no rain feels terrible!
We recommend dining in one of the cozy terraces of Jurmala restaurants with a sea view, and head to Riga, the capital of Latvia in the evening. Here you will be staying at the hotel and taking a stroll through the streets of the Old Town.
Overnight in Jurmala. 

Day 5: Jurmala– Sigulda – Turaida – Cesis – Tartu

In the morning, you will leave Jurmala for the Gauja National Park. In the cozy town of Sigulda, we offer to choose entertainment on a bobsleigh and toboggan run. Enjoy a breathtaking experience and after head to the medieval castle of Sigulda. Don’t miss the opportunity to try an exceptional experience – the Rope Road through the Gauja Valley.
Travel to the maze of mysterious caves – Gutmanis Cave. It is the largest cave in the Baltic States, unique due to old inscriptions on the walls left by old travelers. Currently, the oldest visible inscription dates back to 1667!
Next, we suggest going to Turaida Castle, located on the right bank of the Gauja River – a monument of an early Gothic style, from the top of which you can see and admire the beautiful views of the Gauja Valley.
Another impressive place in the Gauja National Park is Cesis Castle. Have you ever walked around the castle when the only light you have is from the lantern? While visiting Cesis Castle, you will have the opportunity to try it! From the western tower of the castle, you can see the whole complex, the park, the city, and its surroundings. And after descending to the basement, you will visit the dungeon of a medieval castle! After saying goodbye to Latvia, you will travel to the Estonian city of Tartu.
Overnight in Tartu. 

Day 6: Tartu – Parnu

The city is home to a 17th-century university, making Tartu known as an always young and vibrant student city. Wandering around the cozy Old Town, you will see a fountain and a sculpture of young couple kissing, capturing the spirit of the town, the Town Hall Square and St. John’s Church, the old observatory, and the ruins of Tartu Dome Cathedral. Are you a romance lover? Charming walk over Bridges of Angels and Devils, and the enchanting green park will not leave you indifferent!
Probably the most popular and most visited place in Tartu is the Science Center AHHAA with its 3,000-square-meters interactive exhibit. The largest science center in the Baltic States will undoubtedly leave an impression on everyone. Still, it will especially appeal to small and curious travelers, because the exhibits here are not only possible but necessary to touch. You will be able to ride a bike through an acrobatic rope, wander through a maze of mirrors, descend an adventure elevator to the depths of the earth, watch ants live in a real anthill, and that’s far from it! The pride of the science center is a spherical planetarium, where you can discover even the smallest stars of the Milky Way.  In the evening you will leave for Parnu, where you will spend a night. 

Day 7: Parnu-Tallinn

The day is dedicated to getting to know the largest Estonian resort Parnu, which is called the summer capital. Well-kept parks and beaches, historical and architectural heritage, spas and cozy cafes, museums, and sports grounds – the city will offer a wealth of entertainment that will ensure quality recreation for couples, families with children, and fun groups of friends.
Stroll through very cozy Old Town and admire the architecture: 18th century City Hall; The Red Tower – the only surviving fortress on the city wall; the baroque St. Elizabeth Church. It is necessary to stop at the gateway to Tallinn, which today opens onto a park and marina, perfect for family picnics and romantic walks.
The sunny beach of Parnu attracts with its white dunes and swimming in the fresh Baltic Sea. For romantics looking for beautiful background photos, we recommend a walk on the Parnu Pier – a stone path stretches even two kilometers to the sea and separates the Baltic Sea from the mouth of the Parnu river.
Active leisure enthusiasts will find great entertainment at Valgerana Adventure Park, and history buffs will be happy to visit the modern and interactive Parnu City Museum. Worth mentioning Lottemaa, the largest theme park in the Baltics, which will appeal to families with children in the evening.
Along the way, we recommend stopping and admiring the six-meter-high and about 70-meter-wide Keila waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Estonia.
Overnight in Tallinn. 

Day 8: Tallinn – Lahemaa National Park

You will start your tour of Tallinn with a sightseeing tour with a local guide. Stroll through the cozy streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit several observation decks, which offer stunning views of the city. You will also see the most exciting sights of Tallinn: the Gothic Town Hall; the buildings of the Guild of the Craftsmen and Blackheads; the impressive beauty of St. Nicholas and St. Olavo Church; Tompea Castle, which currently houses the Estonian Parliament; and Dome Church – a former residence of the Bishops of Tallinn.
Later you can visit another famous place – Kadriorg Baroque Palace, which houses an art museum and a beautiful park with well-groomed flower beds and romantic fountains.
In the afternoon, you will head to Lahemaa National Park and stay at the historical manor, surrounded by beautiful nature. Here you can relax in the jacuzzi, play mini-golf, go cycling or enjoy a romantic boat trip on the Mustoja river.  Overnight at Lahemaa National Park. 

Day 9: Lahemaa National Park – Tallinn

The ninth day will be dedicated to independent acquaintance with the oldest and largest Lahemaa National Park in all of Estonia. The name of the park means “edge of the bays.” Four bays surround it with winding and steep banks. Forests cover 70 percent of the territory, and there are many wetlands. We recommend a visit to the mansions with beautiful parks near your accommodation: the Sagadi Palace, the sign of early classicism, decorated with Rococo elements, and the impressive Baroque style Palmse Manor. You can also visit the village of Kasmu, famous for its Boats and Maritime Museum, and the Kasmu Penisula with rocks protruding from the seafront and walking paths.
The authentic fishing village of Altja, with its thatched roofs of wooden houses, is also located in Lahemaa Park, and Viru Swamp is one of the park’s most visited places. You will be able to take a walk on the nature trail here and admire the stunning scenery of Lahemaa National Park.
In the evening you will leave for Tallinn, where you will spend a night. 

Day 10: Tallinn

Breakfast. Free time in Tallinn. Departure.