Highlights of the Baltic States

Embark on an introductory tour of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three vibrant countries on the Baltic Sea. Marvel at the architectural styles, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and uncover history dating back thousands of years. It’s a journey that will capture your imagination and inspire you.

Day 1 Vilnius

Arrive in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, and transfer to your preferred hotel. Located in the southeast part of Lithuania, Vilnius is the second largest city of the Baltic States. Its Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 for its beautiful architecture.

Day 2 Vilnius

Meet your guide after breakfast and begin your driving and walking tour of the city. Once the capital of an empire that spread from the Baltic to the Black Sea, Vilnius’s old town is filled with fine Baroque buildings and cobbled streets, with an important Jewish quarter known in its time as the “Jerusalem of Europe.” During your tour you will visit the Church of St. Peter and Paul, St. Anna’s Church, Vilnius Cathedral, the Gate of Dawn, and Vilnius University. Return to the hotel for relaxation and personal pursuits.

Day 3 Vilnius, Trakai, Rundale & Riga

After breakfast, leave for Trakai, a charming small town in southeastern Lithuania. It is built on a narrow, elongated peninsula dividing Lakes Galve, Totoriskiai, and Luka. The main sight here is Trakai Island Castle. The castle is sometimes also referred to as “Little Marienburg.”

Proceed to Latvia with a stop at Rundale to visit Rundale Palace, dating from the 18th century. The palace is an outstanding example of the early work of Italian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the architect of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg.

After Rundale you will continue to Riga for overnight in your selected hotel.

Day 4 Riga

Today join your guide for an enjoyable tour of Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States. The center of Latvia’s capital has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich history and remarkable concentration of Art Nouveau-style (Jugendstil) buildings. The highlights of the city include a visit to St. Peter’s Church and Riga Dome Cathedral, which is visible from most parts of the city. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in your preferred hotel.

Day 5 Riga, Sigulda, Parnu & Tallinn

This morning you will be transferred to the Gauja National Park in Sigulda to visit Sigulda Castle ruins and Turaida Castle. Enjoy the natural splendor of this popular park before continuing to Parnu, the summer capital of Estonia. Drive to Tallinn and check into your selected hotel for two nights.

Day 6 Tallinn

After breakfast, tour the city sights including Kadriorg Palace and Park, which was built by Peter the Great as a summer residence, and Song Festival Ground, which has a great importance in the history of Estonia. Upon arrival in the Old Town, experience the city on two levels. The main sights catching your eye will be Tallinn’s largest and grandest cupola at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tall Hermann Tower, and Toompea Castle. On the way to Lower town, notice the magnificent spire of St. Nicholas Church, which is now a concert hall and museum. Stroll through the Town Hall square in the heart of Lower Town.

Spend the afternoon exploring more of the city, or hunt for interesting souvenirs.

Day 7 Tallinn

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward or homeward bound flight.