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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2023

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 (and buses are reliable and comfortable) and for some popular places nearby, 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 are using 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’s 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 . Here you can find some of the best deals for car rental in Tallinn .

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!

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

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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 personally always use this website for our car hire. 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.

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Wonderful two weeks in the Baltics - Baltic Travel Services

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Wonderful tour; I organized a 9 day itinerary through Lithuania and Latvia in Feb/Mar 2024 on short... read more

I found Baltic Travel Services in 2018 and was planning on using them to travel later in the year... read more

Wonderful two weeks in the Baltics

I found Baltic Travel Services on Trip Advisor and chose their services based on the reviews. Having just returned from two weeks in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Helsinki, Finland I can say Linda did a fabulous job of arranging the perfect trip for us (my husband and myself). We chose to have private guides along the way, as well as private transport starting in Vilnius and ending in Helsinki (took the ferry to Helsinki from Tallinn). We never had a single glitch - everyone was on time, was very personable and made every aspect of the trip enjoyable. The guides we were provided were top notch - and so were the drivers. While arranging the trip, I had several special request concerning areas of the countries I would like to see that were a bit off the usual track. Not only was there no problem in arranging all of my requests but Linda had insightful suggestions that I would never have been able to anticipate. I would definitely use her again if I return to any of this area - or refer my friends. She did an A+ job and we came home with some very pleasant memories of our two weeks there!

Our Dear Guests, Your review is meaningful and very very special for all our team. We feel proud that our job has been succeeded and you receive the perfect organization for all your tours and services organized by Ms. Linda and fulfilled by our team. Thank you for choosing us! The team of the BALTIC TRAVEL SERVICES

Baltic travel services are very organised and everything goes exactly according to itinerary. Great that you have pick up/drop off, tours, accom all arranged so you dont have to think about how to do any of that. The price was exceptional value. Plenty of spare time at locations to do your own sightseeing and choose your own restaurants to dine at. Private tour, can get through it quicker than if you are with a group and see the same things.

Dear Guests, Thank you for taking the time to leave a wonderful review! Our team was pleased to meet you, organize the tours and show around. We believe you will have a lot of nice memories from Russia and the Baltic states. Thank you, The team of BALTIC TRAVEL SERVICES

Outstanding! Linda was so responsive to our needs and the way we wished to travel. The guides and drivers were excellent. The hotels were five star and the service impeccable. We are well traveled and I could not ask for a better trip.

Dear Madam, Thank you for taking the time and leaving a wonderful review. Your family was charming and very kind and it was a pleasure to organise the trip and tours for you. Best wishes for the future and thank you for letting us share part of your trip with you! Sincerely yours, Team of the BALTIC TRAVEL SERVICES

We were two couples who started in Helsinki, took ferry to Tallinn, continued to Riga, then Vilnius, before flying back to Helsinki for our return to US. The service we received from Linda and her staff was simply stellar. Every transfer was on time, every guide was extremely knowledgable, personable, and went out of his/her way to accommodate any request we had. The hotels were all very clean, well apportioned, ample and delicious breakfast, and friendly staff. Linda even arranged for the hotel in Vinius to print our boarding passes for our flight back to Helsinki. There is nothing we would do or suggest to improve the trip. Great value, great service - we would not hesitate a second to book with Baltic Travel Service again!!!!!!

Our dear guests, We were excited to welcome you in the Baltic states, serve for you and now by reading your perfect feedback. We work hard and always try to do the best to serve and to make every guest feel special. We are positively thrilled if you can feel that during the booking process and even more during the trip. It was the pleasure for our staff to meet you during the tours and share the knowledge and local experiences. Thank you very much! We all wish you many beautiful trips and new exciting experiences in the future! Yours sincerely, Team of BALTIC TRAVEL SERVICES

Excellent arrangements , good hotels, Knowledgable guides, prompt pick ups, personal service by staff. Highly recommend Baltic Travel services for travel to Baltic States and St. Petersburg. Linda was great in following our requests.

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We loved to organise your travel and we are very happy that you enjoyed your trip and had new experiences and interesting moments in the Baltics and St.Petersburg. Best wishes in the future and thank you for choosing our services! Best Regards, The team of BALTIC TRAVEL SERVICES

My husband and I just concluded our 7 days/6 nights tours from Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn to Helsinki. I'm so happy I discovered Baltic Travel Services online. I was googling out tours and checked out the reviews of what's the best. They're based in Riga and It's really a big advantage getting a local company as they're more knowledgeable and I feel that they're more sincere promoting the Baltic States tours because it's their home. Consistently, all the car transfers and guides were always 15 minutes earlier to the time appointed on our schedules. All the hotels were very centrally located. We're just so happy with the package we got. 😄 Special thanks to Linda who had been very quick to reply to all my inquiries and very accommodating to all my requests. Thank you very much to all our wonderful, friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable guides: Arunas (Vilnius), Santa (Riga), Evelyn (Tallinn) and Tanya (Helsinki) and all our drivers (so sorry I can't recall their names. Although our driver from Vilnius all the way to Riga and Tallinn was very accommodating, knowledgeable, friendly and a very very good driver). I highly recommend your tour company to all my friends traveling to the Baltics. Special mention to Santa who had been a very good source of historical information. She was very attentive to our needs and was helpful to all our questions. It was snowing heavily when she gave us our walking tour and she was very informative and gave us so much insights appreciating the Baltics even more. She's such a warm person with a funny disposition and has a very charming personality. Santa is a very good asset to the Baltic Travel Services company. You're so lucky to have her....she's such a jewel! Great tours and thank you very much! 😄 From: Amy Santos

Dear Amy, Wow, your review is amazing! Thank you so much for your feedback! We are proud to read it, as well share among our team members and guests. We are very happy that despite of cold weather you felt our open hearts and welcome here in the Baltic states and Helsinki! We are waiting you back in few tears for new discovers in this region! Thank you from all members of our team!

The Ultimate Baltic Road Trip Itinerary (2023)

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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  RentalCars.com . We rented our car from Riga airport, however this itinerary can be done in any order!

Check Rental Car prices 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.

35 thoughts on “The Ultimate Baltic Road Trip Itinerary (2023)”

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.

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30 Unique Things To Do In Riga: The Rising Star Of The Baltics!

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Categories Latvia , City Secrets Unveiled

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Nestled on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of Latvia’s River Daugava, Riga is so much more than the picturesque Gothic city it initially appears to be. Of course, those spires and the medieval Old Town are part of what makes it so attractive, but there’s also a lot going on beneath the surface.

Behind the wooden buildings and cobblestones, you’ll find a vibrant cultural center full to bursting with contemporary art, hip bars, and innovative food offerings.

It’s an architecture buff’s dream destination; walking along streets lined with candy-colored buildings and art Nouveau creations makes you feel like you’re in a film set. The new national library, by local architect Gunnar Birkerts, is another arresting sight.

Aside from the living museum of the city itself, you’ll also find tonnes of fascinating museums telling you more about the history and culture of Latvia and its capital.

Spend your days here, or in the many art galleries, soaking up the surroundings and stopping the bar at the Kanepes culture center or famous Café Osiris for refreshment. Not for nothing is it (occasionally) dubbed the ‘Baltic Berlin.’ Edgy bars doubling as art spaces, techno clubs, and innovative pop-up eateries abound, particularly in the Old Town.

With the rise of Air Baltic making Riga a growing aviation hub, increased cruise connections to Scandinavian ports, and its central location in the region is it any wonder Riga is experiencing a modern-day renaissance with travelers? 

Not to mention all the fabulously quirky concept hotels with very affordable price tags…

Make no mistake, though – this is a city with a difference. It’s quirky, eclectic, and 100% itself. What else would you expect from a city that stakes a claim to the first-ever public Christmas tree? It might get comparisons to Tallinn  or London , but Riga has a totally unique character. You’ll find a whole wealth of unusual things to do in Riga, which is why we’d encourage you to embrace the strangeness.

Why go to the same places as everyone else when there are things like the following options on offer?

Page Contents

1. Gaze In Awe At The Impressive House of the Blackheads

2. understand the country’s past at the museum of the occupation of latvia, 3. explore the spirited riga central market, 4. get cultured at the latvian national museum of art, 5. learn about riga’s history of conflict at the powder tower, 6. visit the animals at riga zoo, 7. feel the need for speed at the riga motor museum, 8. splash about at līvu akvaparks, 9. dive into a storybook-fairytale at the latvian ethnographic open-air museum , 10. soar above the city at the riga radio and tv tower, 11. explore the museum of the history of riga and navigation, 12. make a pilgrimage to the transcendant hill of crosses , 13. take a dip in the baltic at jumala beach, 14. indulge your sweet tooth at laima chocolate museum, 15. dream of taking flight at the riga aviation museum, 16. embrace your inner train enthusiast at the latvian railway history museum, 17. hang with local hipsters at the tallinn street quarter , 18. drop-in to the kalnciema ezītis miglā tram bar , 19. get really off-the-beaten-track in sabile, 20. discover modern art in a beautiful setting at the pedvale open air museum, 21. relax in bourgeois opulence at the art cafe sienna, 22. wallow in literary magnificence at the national library of latvia, 23. sip sophisticated cocktails above it all at the radisson blu, 24. unearth cold-war era treasure at a soviet junk yard, 25. stand atop the protrusive latvian academy of sciences, 26. treat yourself to a night at the latvian national opera, 27. meader through the kronvalda urban park, 28. show someone you care at the sakta flower market, 29. study the history of art nouveau in riga.

• 30. Treat Yourself To Sheer Opulence At The Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga 

OK, this isn’t as weird as it sounds, but it’s certainly unusual. The Blackheads were a guild of unmarried German merchants who built this ornate building in Riga’s old town 1344. Meant as a venue for celebrations, meetings, and conferences, it could arguably be described as an early form of fraternity house (with fewer games of beer pong, we’re guessing!).

The façade is famously opulent, and the interior gives it a run for its money, with gilding, crystal chandeliers, and coats of arms.

What’s totally fascinating about visiting the House of the Blackheads now is that it’s actually a new building. After being destroyed by bombing during the Second World War, an exact replica was rebuilt during the 1990s using the original blueprints.

Even more amazingly, this fulfills a prophecy once written on the building’s doors: If I am destined to ruination, I will be rebuilt by you . It is worth visiting to learn more about this story alone!

While this might not sound like the most cheerful museum, it makes a significant impact. Established in the early 1990s in a Soviet-era building from 1971, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia documents the 51-period of occupation that started with the USSR in 1940, continued with Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1944 and ended with the USSR again from 1944 to 1991.

It might be unusual to see such a singular focus in a history museum, but these occupations were a significant part of the country’s history.

The exhibitions (temporarily housed in the former US embassy until the official building reopens in 2020) are fascinating but often disturbing. They include a recreation of a gulag cell, first-hand accounts of deportations and imprisonments, and evidence of the resistance.

There’s a critical audio-visual archive that contributes to documentary films. The stated aim is to remember victims of occupation and remind the world of the crimes Latvia suffered; visiting is a mark of respect and understanding.

 For those seeking further interest in this sad period of history, you might also consider this Dark Years walking tour.

One of the largest indoor markets in Europe, the Riga Central Market, is located just outside the Old Town. It is one of the most distinguished structures built in Latvia during the 20th century and has such has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list together with Old Riga in 1998.

The central constructions of the market are five sheds assembled from the metal frameworks of old German Zeppelin hangars that then incorporate Neoclassicism and Art Deco motifs. Indeed a sight to behold — and five of only nine Zeppelin hangars remaining in the world.

Take the time to immerse yourself in local life here as you explore the lively market — or why not opt for a food tour if you want to learn more about Latvian cuisine and cultural traditions. Either way, you can explore a variety of local specialties like smoked meats, cheeses, herring, and hemp butter – or taste modern gourmet cuisine in the new food hall.

Much like Riga, the Central Market is currently experiencing a considerable revitalization project, so while it may be in flux, it is still unquestionably worth a visit.

Over 52,000 works of art reside in this beautiful Baroque building on the Esplanade. Recently renovated to add an underground exhibition space, much-needed upgrades, and an attractive restaurant, this 1905 building is an impressive spot even when you don’t factor in the extensive art collection within.

It shows the development of Latvian art from the 18 th century to the present day and includes works by masters of the Latvian painting school such as Purvītis, Rozentāls, Annuss, and Valters (don’t worry if you haven’t heard of them!).

There are also often exciting temporary exhibitions to supplement this education in local art.

This cylindrical tower is the sole survivor out of 18 that was built in the 14 th century to strengthen the defense of the old city wall.

It now proudly stands firm as home to the Latvian War Museum, having acted formerly as a prison, a torture chamber, a gunpowder store, and a frat house (not sure which is the most gruesome, really!). The walls are 2.5m thick, which was obviously effective as there are nine Russian cannonballs that didn’t make it through built into the walls by the stonemasons – clearly ones with a sense of humor!

As you’d expect from a country so unfortunately ravaged by war, the Latvian War Museum has an extensive collection covering the struggles of the 20 th century, from the occupations to the fight for independence and the development of the country’s army.

With photographs, memorabilia, and life-size wax figurines, the inside of the Powder Tower is as impressive as the exterior.

Founded in 1912, Riga Zoo offers you the opportunity to get out of the city and into the hilly pine forest where it’s located. It’s not the biggest zoo we’ve ever been to (understatement), but it’s in a gorgeous location and has over 400 species of animals living there. Among the trees of Mezaparks and along the side of Lake Kisezers, a range of wildlife coexists.

Local Latvian animals hang out in the petting zoo where visitors can cuddle or pet them. More exotic animals include carnivores like the Amur Tigers, Galapagos Tortoise , a Red Kangaroo, and playful seals. Regular feeding shows provide you with extra information about these animals and their lifestyles.

Whether you’re interested in cars or not, this is an absolute gem of a museum. It’s actually the most extensive antique vehicle museum in the Baltic countries and boasts an extremely impressive collection.

It’s a little bit outside the city center, but the journey to get there is worth it when you get to see not only the cars that belonged to USSR dignitaries like Stalin, Gorky, and Khrushchev but life-sized models of those men as well (warts and all).

You’ll also find vintage Rolls Royces and BMWs alongside the oldest car in the world – the Benz Patent Motorwagen. When you get tired of looking at these cars, have a go on one of the interactive driving games or get a picture of you at a Soviet parade using a green screen.

The quirky touches are classic Riga!

When you want a break from all the historical sightseeing, Livu Aquapark is the place to come. Located on the edge of a lake, this water park boasts both indoor and outdoor fun (outside is summer only, of course!).

There are three areas – one for all the splashing around, one for families and one spa and sauna area to relax in. Between these, you’ll find Kamikaze, a slide for adrenalin junkies that’s the height of a 5-story building, a 45-meter water loop, an almost too realistic wave pool, and a tornado pipe.

If all this sounds a bit overwhelming, or you like to relax after going on all the slides, then Livu’s got you covered. With a Tropic Wood Zone for more sedate playing, four different saunas, and a vast range of spa treatments, you’ll definitely leave feeling ready to take on the world!

One of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe is located on the lightly wooded banks of Lake Jugla, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Riga. 

This museum is unique even when contrasted to similar museums around the world since it began to collect its exhibitions before the war. Thus many of its exhibition objects are still in outstanding condition and the only remaining examples left in many cases. The idea for the new museum was motivated by other open-air museums in Scandinavia, but particularly Skansen in  Stockholm . 

One hundred eighteen historical buildings from all four of Latvia’s provinces – Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale, and Latgale, were put on display at the museum with most of them were originally constructed between the 17th century up until the 1930s.

Sadly, however, after WW2, the new Soviet powers that be didn’t understand the nature of the museum and declared it ideologically incorrect. Many documents were also lost during this period, as were most staff as they were repressed or forced into exile. In the late 1960s, the museum saw a small renaissance, and when Latvia regained its independence in 1991, the museum was expanded. More high-value objects were placed into the museum resulting in the exceptional offering available today. 

You can spend a few hours wandering around here in the vast, silent forest – stuck in a sort of magical time-warp – and if you get hungry, there is a beautiful café hidden in the middle with traditional delights and cute picnic tables. The Latvian Honey Cake here is simply not to be missed. 

Hold the phone, did you know this was the tallest tower in the European Union (and the 3 rd tallest in Europe)? For some reason, our minds still thought it was the Eiffel Tower!

Unfortunately, it’s currently closed until 2023 due to an extensive renovation project. Yet, when that’s complete, there will be a restaurant at about 100 meters, a Foucault pendulum, and the opportunity to see the tower’s bomb shelter.

It began transmission in 1986 and has a projected service life of 250 years, so it will be interesting to see how the use of Riga Radio Tower changes as technology develops. For visitors to Riga, it’s mainly interesting to see the incredible views from the observation platform at 97 meters.

With its slightly convoluted name, this is the oldest public museum in the Baltic. It’s located in the old cathedral monastery, which gives the historic collection an even more exclusive feel. It started life in 1773 as the private collection of a local doctor and has since grown into a substantial exhibition showing the history of Riga.

Artifacts date back to the Bronze Age with examples of pre-Christian jewelry and continue up to World War II. The navigation aspect of the name refers to the collection of instruments, ship models, maps, and plans that give an insight into how people found their way in times gone by.

The combination of the unique setting and the large group of pieces make it one of the most unusual things to do in Riga.

Not technically even in Latvia, but easily reachable on a day trip so worth a mention. The Hill of Crosses, or Kryziu Kalnas in Lithuanian, is a compilation of over 250,000 wooden crosses established on a small hill in Šiauliai in Northern Lithuania.

It is one of the most sensational sights in the Baltic countries — it is extraordinarily eery to wander around its crowded pathways, examining the mountains of crosses placed over time here. 

The Hill of Crosses signifies the peaceful endurance of the Lithuanian people despite the threats they faced throughout history. The tradition began after an unsuccessful rebellion against Russian authorities in 1831 as families could not locate bodies of perished rebels. Hence, they placed symbolic crosses in place of a former hill fort instead.

The site took on a particular significance during the Soviet Occupation as Lithuanians left crosses at the site to manifest their devotion to their original identity, religion, and heritage – although the Soviets endeavored to remove new crosses, and even bulldozed the site on three separate dates. Its importance to Lithunains was fixed; however, in 1993, when Pope John Paul II visited and declared it a place for hope, peace, love, and sacrifice.

There are many ways to make a pilgrimage to this site. Still, one of the easiest is to enjoy a comfortable round-trip tour by private vehicle , learn more about the fascinating historical sites from your driver, and stopping as many times as you like to admire the views and take photos.

Head out of town to Latvia’s biggest and most famous beach resort, less than an hour from Riga by train or car. Spend the day taking in the glittering Baltic coast, relaxing on the white sand beaches of Jurmala, and roaming by bike around the old wooden neighborhoods. If you are feeling a little more wealthy, you could also indulge in a luxuriating spa day, or treat yourself to a meal at any of the area’s fine restaurants. 

When Latvia was part of the Soviet Union, Jurmala was a popular holiday resort for high-level Communist Party officials. Beach-houses and concrete hotels remain from this era, although many have fallen into disrepair. 

In the past decade, the fortunes of Jurmala have once again risen as the town became a well-known bolt hole of wealthy Russians looking to hide their fortunes. If for no other reason, a trip is warranted here as the contrast between Jurmala and Riga is fascinating in and of itself. 

Don’t tell your dentist you’re coming here, of course, but the historic Laima Chocolate museum is too much temptation to resist.

You can smell the cocoa from several streets away, so simply follow your nose to find yourself in this interactive museum dedicated to all things chocolate. Laima started in 1870, is Latvia’s biggest chocolate producer, and the owner opened the museum on the site of the factory to entice more people in.

Here you’ll learn about the chocolate-making traditions of the company through exciting videos, create videos of your own, learn how to make some of the treats the company produces, and even get a message printed on a chocolate bar. It’s great for kids – or adult chocoholics!  

Whether you’re a fan of the world in the skies or not, this eclectic outdoor museum is a fun place to visit. It’s logically located on the grounds of Riga International Airport, meaning that while you admire the collection of aircraft from the past while the present-day versions zoom overhead.

What’s even more fascinating about it, is that it all exists because of one keen aviation engineer, Victor Talpa. As well as building one of Europe’s more unique collections, Talpa also established a Young Pilots’ Club for aviation-keen teens.

In 1997 the museum was fully privatized and opened up to the public. All the exhibits are outdoors, so are slightly weather-worn, but for those interested in the Cold War or engineering, it’s a must-see.  The planes range from the huge Mi-6 helicopter to MiG fighter jets and demonstrate the evolution of aviation. Given its location, it’s the ideal place to visit when you’ve got an hour or so to kill before your flight.

Reading this list, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Latvians have a bit of a thing for transport; however, the museums on this theme do tend to be among the most quirky and unusual things to do in Riga. The Latvian Railway History Museum is no exception to this rule.

Located in a former engine warehouse from the 19 th century, it features a reconstructed waiting room, offices for the station master and ticket counters, and a train platform. You can also get a look at diesel and electric locomotives, including a 1930s passenger carriage and a prison car from the Tsarist era.

As well as these delights, you also inspect the vast collection of memorabilia, which includes photographs and postcards, uniforms, and tickets. Something about this patchwork of items from history makes the exhibit more real, as you get a sense of all the people who used to go about their daily lives on the Latvian railways.

One of the current hotspots of hipster Riga, this industrial zone, was used as a depot for ambulance cars in Soviet times but is now finding a new lease on life thanks to several bars and art venues.

Head by during the day to admire the range of street art and post-industrial decay vibes (or just grab a coffee from the newly opened Rocket Bean Roastery) – but for maximum effect head in the evening or night to enjoy food, craft beer, and a buzzing nightlife scene of  Tallinas Kvartāla Ezītis Miglā.

Known for endless summer parties, long conversations, and beautiful encounters, this utterly hipster spot found in a former mechanics garage offers food, refreshing delicious cocktails, and an environment where everyone can feel at home well into the night. Various arts, music, and other events take place here regularly – and the outdoor terrace in summer is one of Riga’s hidden gems.

Another in favor location of the Ezītis miglā hipster chain of bars. Tucked away on the other side of Riga across the river, in a lively art and entertainment enclave surrounded by beautifully restored wooden buildings.

Explore the area, before settling in with a glass (or bottle) of wine in their outdoor seating area with old hipster trams or inside if the weather is refusing to co-operate. Opened in 2018, the Ezītis Miglā Tram Bar is an absolute must-visit and adds to the creative spirit of the surrounding Quarter.  

The Ezītis Miglā chain is wildly popular with locals, as each location offers an entirely different concept and design theme. While currently, these locations are our favorite, this is likely to change as Ezītis Miglā expands. 

Sabile is a gorgeous little town around 1.5 hours from Riga that was formed in the ancient valley of the River Abava in the 13th-14th century by traders and craftsmen. Today, the Old Town of Sabile mesmerizes its sightseers with an exceptional mix of history, wine, and visual delights. 

A place to pause, take time and let small-town life take you over, Sabile allows you a glimpse into what life in Latvia is like outside of Riga. Sabile Wine Hill is the most famous attraction in the city and was previously listed in the Guinness World Record Book as the most northerly vineyard in the world – before Norway overtook it. Thanks, global warming…

There is also a wooden toy museum, beautiful hikes, cute restaurants, and the infamous Doll Garden of Sabile, a somewhat disturbing garden chock-full of hundreds of endlessly smiling doll people. A wonderful day trip from Riga, reachable either by public bus or by hiring a car. We recommend combining it with the nearby Pedvale Open Air Museum.

In the northwest part of Latvia, next to Sabile town, you will find the curios Pedvale Open Air Museum – one of the most wonderful and unexpected attractions we visited in Latvia. After the restoration of the independence of Latvia, in 1991, the sculptor Ojārs Arvīds Feldbergs obtained the manors of Firckspedvale and Brinkenpedvale and started developing the Open-air Art Museum and in 2018 opened the Pedvale Art Park to the public.

The terrain of the Art Park encompassed almost 100 hectares of meadows, bushes, steep slopes, deep valleys, streams, and a winding river – all of which visitors are free to wander around and visit.  The conception of the Art Park is to integrate the natural landscape, cultural heritage, and art into a single space, and artists who participate in the museum’s creative projects are encouraged to get inspiration from the surrounding area and to use the natural materials available there.

You will need to hire a car to get here or take a bus and walk from Sabile, but there is no way you will regret the extra effort as you spend hours in awe of the interaction of art and nature in this exceptional space.

A hidden gem of Riga that you will either love or hate, the Art Café Sienna offers an escape from the modern world and a return to centuries-old values.

Step back into a bygone era, complete with antique furniture, porcelain, and attentive butler service. This is a ‘café’ to simply be leisurely and enjoy the atmosphere with high-quality coffee, teas from around the world, French-style desserts, and cakes.

It’s like drinking in someone’s lovely living room, and the service here is second to none. Unique, but certainly not to everyone’s taste. It is seriously expensive, though, so unless you are a Russian oligarch, we recommend staying away from the champagne and cognac and just going for one of the more affordable coffee or tea sets.

A commanding landmark on the Riga cityscape, the National Library of Latvia was open in 2014 and yes — is equally impressive inside and out.

Since the re-establishment of Latvian national independence in 1991, there have been calls for a National Library of Latvia to provide internet access to residents and supporting research and lifelong education. This building, designed by noted Latvian-American architect Gunnar Birkerts, ensures such needs are met. 

In the past, it appears they were only open to locals, but that is no longer true. Non-residents just need to borrow a guest pass at the front desk. From there, head up to the 7th floor for magnificent views of the Old Town. Also, there is a rotating array of exhibitions here which may also capture your attention – not to mention the unsurpassed collection of Latvian literature housed within.

The Library’s collection today comprises more than 5 million titles, including approximately 18,000 manuscripts from the 14th century up to modern times.

The highest bar in Riga, and one of its most sophisticated, is the Skyline Bar, located on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Spa Hotel.  Levitate your senses amidst modern surroundings with specially crafted signature cocktails or Asian tapas. Entrance is free most weeknights or before 10 pm on weekends — and prices are very affordable, given its premium location.

If you are looking for a more classic drink, why not consider a Tanqueray Martini with a twist or a Prohibition-Era White Lady …

For non-drinkers, their mocktail menu is also one of the best in town, all of which are perfectly matched with tantalizing dishes the likes of shredded duck spring rolls and Vietnamese sliders.

We found Skyline Bar to be surprisingly empty around sunset, so either come early or late at night to enjoy your libations here without the crowds. Occupying the entire floor, you can perch yourself on either side of the room for panoramic views over the Old Town or out over the sprawling suburbs of Riga. Sure, the building itself is something of a monstrosity and a blight on the skyline – but since it’s there, you might as well use it! 

Thrift shopping doesn’t exactly have a chic reputation in the post–Soviet Union. Whereas in prosperous Western nations you might find cast-off couture and designer homewares, in the junkyards of Latvia you are more likely to come across gas masks, hyper-outdated electronics, hammer and sickle memorabilia, war medals — or 1980s clothes so wildly outrageous you couldn’t even wear them ironically. 

Secondhand shopping in the USSR was the ultimate sign of poverty, and today, these junkyards that dot the inner suburbs of Latvia are a reminder of many of the economic crises and hardships of the past. Things are by no means easy here today, but the Latvia of today is not that Latvia of twenty years ago — the time in which these junkyards seem perpetually stuck.

Still, as far as cultural discovery and urban adventuring go, an inquisitive tourist should not pass up on the opportunity to poke around and see what you find. Flea markets, after all, are possibly as crucial in understanding a country’s history as any museum — something we discovered at the Campo de Santa Clara Flea Market of Lisbon.

Where else can you find parts for a hundred-year-old Russian Samovar or a military lighter made from a cartridge case? One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. The Latgale Tirgus flea market is the easiest of these junkyards to find for your average tourist, but keep your eyes peeled while exploring  Riga as there are plenty more. 

One of the most divisive buildings in Lativa, people will either love it or hate it – but there is no denying: The Latvian Academy of Sciences 107-metre building stands out from the crowd. 

The first high-rise in Latvia, the official science academy of Latvia, has been a dominating fixture of the Riga cityscape since its completion in 1961. In large part-financed from “voluntary donations” deducted from the salaries of the Latvian rural population, the building was intended as a dormitory for collective farm workers who come to Riga – but was never used for the purpose.

The tower has a total of 766 rooms on the 23 floors, which today are occupied by scientists, researchers, historians, and various companies. The spire’s five-pointed star was removed in 1991 after Lativa Independence, but inside you can still see hammer and sickle decorations as well as Latvian folk ornaments and motifs. 

For anyone who has traveled to other post-Soviet destinations, it may be no surprise The Latvian Academy of Sciences is a cousin to similar Stalin-era skyscrapers built at the time – most notably the main building of Moscow State University.  The view of the Riga cityscape is now open to the general public, who can pay a few euros to view the city panoramas available from the 17th-floor balcony. The ground floor also houses a concert hall with occasional performances for audiences of all kinds.

The National Opera House of Lativa was constructed in 1863 for the then German-speaking City Theatre and has been refurbished several times. After independence in 1995, the entire building of the Latvian National Opera underwent large-scale reconstruction and restoration to bring it up to modern standards. In 2001, a modern annex was added in 2001 with a smaller 300-seat New Hall.

Today the noble Latvian National Opera can accommodate audiences of up to a thousand people and showcases an excellent range of modern ballet and exquisite operas. You can buy official tickets to Latvian National Opera for a little as five euros, so there really is no excuse not to go. Much like we discovered in Minsk , in the Soviet Union ballet was taken away from the autocratic caste and given back to the masses, and fostered as ‘art for the people.’ This also helps explains why opera and ballet remain so popular here today — and at such affordable prices. 

At the Latvian National Opera, aka Riga’s White House, an average of seven new productions are offered each year, preserving a balance between ballet and opera. In total, there are around 200 performances and several concerts a season at the Latvian National Opera. So chances are, there is a show of some sort when you are visiting Riga.

Kronvalda Park is the oldest park in Riga and remains one of its most beloved – in large part due to its easily accessible location just outside of the Old Town. 11.92 hectares in total, Kronvalda Park is filled with 100 species of exotic trees, 22 local plants, beautiful sculptures, and even a city canal that splits the park into two parts. It is also home to the largest willow tree in Latvia.

The park encompasses the area once used by the Riga City Wall, which was removed in 1863 – and given to the German Riflemen Society, which used it as a training and hunting ground. Over the years it hosted numerous cultural events, but it wasn’t until 1930 when the modern park was set in motion.

In 1938 it was expanded over to the far side of the canal when a pedestrian bridge was built to connect the two banks. It was also during this time the park was named after a member of the Young Latvians Movement – Atis Kronvalds.

Nowadays, Kronvalda Park is filled with families and couples on a summer day, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and facilities, including a playground, a café, roller skating tracks, and water bicycles available for rent. An excellent area to people watch, take a book and relax in the sunshine, or go on a leisurely canal cruise. 

Latvians love flowers, and the tradition of giving flowers in Latvia is still strong. This probably explains the size and diversity of offerings of the recently renovated Sakta Flower Market, the largest flower market in the Baltics occupying a long stretch of flower shops by the side of the charming Vermanes Park

You might be traveling – but that doesn’t mean you can’t drop by, pick up some flowers, and brighten up someone’s day. If you have some Latvian friends and they invite you to their home, flowers will always be appreciated – or you could just surprise your travel partner-in-crime.

Even if you have no use for them (though does anyone really), you can forever wander around and treat your eyes to a colorful feast. If you don’t believe us about how essential flowers are to Latvian culture – the Sakta Flower Market is open 24/7.

Art Nouveau architecture is undoubtedly a calling card of Riga, making up roughly one-third of all the buildings in the center of Riga. In fact, Riga has over 700 art nouveau constructs built during a period of rapid economic growth between 1904 and 1914, mostly consists of multi-story apartment buildings.

This abundance is even great than other Art Noveau hotspots like Prague , Budapest , Helsinki , securing Latvia’s capital bragging rights as the city with the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world.

To learn more, the best place to go is the Musee Art Nouveau in Riga (Riga Jugendstila Centrs) built in a historic apartment where, Konstantīns Pēkšēns, one of Latvia’s most renown art nouveau architects once lived. The distinguished artist who was responsible for the conception of more than 250 buildings in Riga also composed this impressive building. The façade of the monumental building boasts ornamental reliefs with stylized motifs of plants and animals occurring in Latvia.

Inside is a modern digital exposition – as well as an intriguing collection of period furniture and artwork from Riga’s most creative era. Don’t miss a photo opportunity on the impressive grand staircase – one of the most magnificent masterpieces not only in Riga but also in Europe.

The only museum in the Baltic States dedicated to the Art Nouveau heritage – and one of the best things to do in Riga.  If a visit here is still not enough to satiate your inner architect, there is also this wonderful Art Nouveau Walking Tour in Riga.

30 . Treat Yourself To Sheer Opulence At The Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga 

Hotel prices in Riga are low, especially compared to Western European destinations like Vienna and Copenhagen , so why not splurge a little. And the best place for an extravagant splurge? The most fashionable hotel in Riga, the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga , is full of utter opulence and intriguing history.

Initially built in the 19th century, this regal hotel is situated in the heart of the Latvian capital just opposite the National Opera House and by the entrance to the town’s historic center. Discover the most exquisite collection of 141 luxury rooms and suites along with an all-day-dining and a rooftop restaurant, a bar, and a cigar lounge.

Indulge in Kempinski The Spa, featuring six treatment rooms, a swimming pool, and a health club with a fitness center, relax in your spacious room or head for drinks and the undeniable pearl of the hotel, the stylish rooftop restaurant, and bar, Stage 22.

If the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga is a bit too exorbitant, we can also recommend the Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel ; a modern hotel newly opened in Riga right on the waterfront and on the edge of the old town. And for budget travelers, the Wicked Weasel Hostel is the place to be. 

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Travelling the Baltics: Your Perfect Baltic Itinerary

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Thinking of Travelling the Baltics? Here’s a Sample Baltic Itinerary!

If you want a Baltic travel itinerary, you are in the right place! Planning a trip to the Baltics can be a challenge – even though they are so small, there is a ton to do and see in each of the Baltic States!

This is the first post about the Baltics on Penguin and Pia so we are going to be adding lots more information on the region in the future!

As a good place to start, below is a sample itinerary with the capitals, day trips, hostels, and other points of interest in the Baltic states.

In fact, all of Eric’s hostels in all three countries made our massive list of European hostels we loved staying at!

Table of Contents

Things to Consider When Travelling the Baltics

Before you dive into Baltic trip planning, you’ll want to consider a few details. From the currency they use (the Euro) to the weather, safety, and the best time to visit, we cover a few key areas below to help you prepare.

What are the Baltic States?

The Baltics (not to be confused with the Balkans, another region we absolutely love) is a small grouping of countries that are bordering the Baltic Sea in the Northeast part of Europe.

While a few of the countries that lie on the Baltic Sea can be considered Baltic countries, the Baltic States in their traditional definition are Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.

These three countries were part of the Soviet Union until their independence in 1991. Their capitals are beautiful, and are Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn , in order of above!

Best Time to Visit the Baltics

Realistically, the best time to visit the Baltic countries depends on the type of travel you like to do. It will also depend on the types of activities you want to.

Eric visited in the winter and while it was much colder, there was still lots to do and explore. Another perk was that there were fewer people around.

Also, he wouldn’t have been able to go bobsledding in Latvia (see below) if it was summertime! There’s a reason a few of the Baltic capitals made the list of our favourite cities in Europe to visit in the winter .

Summertime means that the national parks in Estonia are full of hikers and wildlife. Summertime also means that the beaches along the Baltic Sea (like in Klaipėda, Lithuania) are going to be full of sun-seekers.

Day trips to Trakai Castle in the summer mean beautiful lakes and water activities. The winter means walking on the lake and enjoying the cold but peaceful atmosphere. See – there is no easy answer!

For the best of all worlds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May and then September-October.  The spring is cooler and there might be some rain but there will be fewer crowds and the snow will be gone.

The fall can also be nice because up in Estonia especially you’ll get to see beautiful coloured leaves.

Getting Around the Baltics

Getting around the Baltics is pretty easy since there are only so many large centres and they are all connected via highways (usually). This makes planning a route a no-brainer if you just stick to where the highways bring you!

We’ll get to car rentals below. As for Eric’s trip, he took the bus between all the Baltic capitals, ending in Estonia. It was awesome – we actually wrote a whole detailed post on taking the bus between the Baltic capitals from Vilnius to Riga to Tallinn .

The bus company in the region is LUX Express. He even took it from Warsaw to Vilnius to start the Baltic portion of the trip.

To be honest, after travelling with the big names like Megabus, FlixBus, ones in the Balkans like CroatiaBus, LUX was probably the cheapest and overall best experiences he has had with a bus company.

The best part about LUX Express is that tickets can be cheap but still a quality experience. You can check the timetables and latest deals on the LUX Express website .

Car Rental in The Baltics

If you are feeling like driving as opposed to the bus, renting a car is definitely a good option here in the Baltics. The thing is that these countries aren’t very big and so driving between places isn’t a huge time commitment like in other countries.

Plus, having a car means that you can adventure off and day trip if you want to see more than what you would be able to by sticking to a bus route.

In the Baltics, the highways are pretty good – regional roads between cities are paved and well-maintained. With any country, the more rural you get, the worse the roads become but that’s sort of a standard you’d come to expect.

Another big plus is that since the Baltics are all in the EU and the Schengen Zone, there are no internal borders between them. So you can drive wherever you like and cross borders without any problems!

Given that Baltic road trips are very doable, there are loads of rental car agencies available. You can compare prices from different agencies for the duration of your trip  with this handy tool . Make sure to read the fine print about additional costs in case there are any issues.

Are the Baltics Safe?

Because so little is typically known about the region – this is a popular question to ask. With a rich history and an intimidating neighbour to the east (Russia), it’s no wonder we wonder if the Baltics are safe.

In short, we think the answer is: yes, but. The Baltics themselves are politically stable and developed nations. They are in the EU – and that wouldn’t happen if the countries still needed to get their act together. With any country, however, it’s always wise to keep your guard up in an unfamiliar place.

The capitals are beautiful and can get quite touristy in the summers. As a result, you’ll want to watch your pockets in crowded areas in the Old towns of Riga and Tallinn. If you decide to hike through a National Park, remember to lock your car and/or take valuables with you.

A local connection (who took Eric for beers and dinner in Vilnius the first night he arrived) mentioned that you wouldn’t want to hang around the main train/bus station at night.

That said, is there any train station you WANT to hang around at night in any country? Not really. So, use common sense or ask locals/hotels/tour providers about what’s a good area or not!

Travel Insurance for the Baltics

When visiting the Baltic countries (or travelling in general) it’s usually a good idea to have travel insurance. This includes medical travel insurances and the coverage for things like lost baggage or delays.

If you aren’t already covered by a company plan, extended medical plan, or a credit card insurance plan, we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Travelling the Baltics: A Sample Baltic Itinerary

If you plan on travelling the Baltics, we want to help you out with a sample Baltic itinerary.

We’ve decided to write about it in the way that Eric did it – south to north. This means that you’d start in Vilnius, Lithuania and head through Latvia to Tallinn, Estonia.

• Estimated Time to Stay: 2 nights
• How to Get There:   Bus from Warsaw, Poland is about 7 hours, could also fly into Vilnius.

Beginning the itinerary with a great first city, Vilnius is a rich city full of history around every turn. Eric explored the city on his own for most of the days he was there.

In that time, he explored the Hill of Three Crosses, Vilnius Cathedral, the Bell Tower among other attractions. If you wanted an actual guide (and not just wander as Eric did) then you can go on a Vilnius walking tour with a local guide .

When Eric stayed there, he stayed in Jimmy Jumps House Hostel . It was a great stay – the people were awesome, the staff were friendly and welcoming, the location is right in the centre of the city, and they even make you waffles for breakfast!

Accommodation for Vilnius:   Check for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

Trakai (and the Castle)

• Estimated Time to Stay: Day Trip
• How to Get There:  Bus from Vilnius, car would also be easy – takes about 40 minutes.

Whether it’s the summer or the winter, a day trip to Trakai (and to visit the Castle) is definitely worth your time.

Eric went in the wintertime and even though it was super cold, it was really cool to basically have the castle to himself! The town itself is situated on the lake so it’s beautiful in the summertime as well.

Trakai Castle was built in the 14th century and remains an important place for Lithuanians as a medieval stronghold and a symbolic place of where statehood is preserved.

There are lots of different exhibits and galleries within the castle so it’s worth the admission fee. You can learn more about the town and castle here .

Nearby, the town is filled with small shops, cafes, and restaurants. These were open in the wintertime and we can’t even imagine how busy (but lively) the town must be in the summer.

If you wanted to leave the car in Vilnius, you could always take a day tour to Trakai to make the journey and guided tour super simple. If you planned on staying in Trakai in the summer, there are resorts and guest houses available!

Accommodation for Trakai:   Check for guesthouse and resort deals !

• Estimated Time to Stay:  1-2 Nights
• How to Get There:   Train, Bus, or Car – all methods take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Vilnius.

Eric really only drove through Kaunas but his local friend who met him for dinner was from there. He explained that Vilnius, as the capital, was better for history and charm, whereas Kaunas was more lively with things to do for the younger crowds.

Obviously, there is a great deal of history in Kaunas with a castle, a monastery, cathedral, and many museums.

There are generally lots of cafes, restaurants, and shops in Kaunas as well as venues for music, etc. To learn more about Kaunas, check out the tourism website !

Accommodation for Kaunas:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

• Estimated Time to Stay: 1 Night, or Pass Through on the way to Šiauliai. Could also Day Trip from Kaunas if necessary
• How to Get There:  Car or Bus is best  – 2 hours on the highway from Kaunas

Heading out to the coast of the Baltic, you’ll find the port city of Klaipėda. Klaipėda is a historic city with seafaring roots that go back centuries.

The old wooden, German-style buildings along the ports serve as a charming backdrop for cruisers that arrive at the busy port.

Klaipėda is actually Lithuania’s third-largest city – and so there are lots of things to do from museums to restaurants, theatres and green space.

The National Park – Curonian Spit – is a massive sand dune located close to the city. You can learn more about visiting Klaipėda here .

Accommodation for Klaipėda:   Check for seaside hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

• Estimated Time to Stay:  1 Night
• How to Get There: From Klaipėda, Car is about 2 hours, Train varies from 2-3 hours, route/stops depending

As the fourth largest city in Lithuania, you might think there’s nothing left to see! That’s where Šiauliai proves you wrong.

While you’ll find many old museums in the city, the city is also a place of pilgrimage and served as a place of resistance to Soviet rule.

As a result, you’ll find the Hill of Crosses nearby to the city. On the Hill, there are over 100,000 wooden crosses that have been left there over the decades. It really is a sight to see and a place to be respected.

If you wanted to see the Hill of Crosses for yourself but weren’t planning on heading to Šiauliai on the way to Riga, consider a day trip from Vilnius for a Hill of Crosses Tour .

Accommodation for Šiauliai:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

• Estimated Time to Stay: 2-4 Nights
• How to Get There: Car from Šiauliai is just under 2 hours, Train from Šiauliai is just over 2 hours.

As the largest of the Baltic capitals, there is TONS to do in Riga! Eric loved the city when we did his trip – and he wants to bring Lisa there someday soon so she can experience it, too!

Riga is a fantastic mix of history with new-age shops, coffee places, restaurants, and style. You get hints of former Soviet rule mixed with progressive ideas from the young people.

Not to mention it has incredible buildings, cathedrals, monuments, and other must-see attractions (like the Space Monkey statue).

Given the amount of history to Riga (much of it being significant Soviet history) a walking  tour with an emphasis on Soviet tales might be for you! Besides that, there is lots of great food in Riga.

Eric tried the local cuisine of deep-fried bread at the traditional restaurant and beer hall. Now, if you are thinking “hmm, that would be delicious and definitely not healthy for you”… you’d be absolutely correct.

If you wanted to try other authentic cuisines, consider a food tour around Riga with a local guide who knows their stuff! We plan on writing up a whole other post on Riga soon so you’ll get lots more tips there.

As for a place to stay Eric stayed at Naughty Squirrel Backpackers . Technically a party hostel, it wasn’t as crazy as it sounds.

The staff were great, the people were nice, and the place was huge. You could lounge around or choose to socialise if you wanted. Bunks and rooms were huge and had amenities in the bunk which is always a nice detail.

Eric would definitely stay again for the tiny bar on hand and the free welcome shot of Latvian liqueur – Black Balsam!

Accommodation for Riga:   Check for great Riga hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

• Estimated Time to Stay:  1 Night or Day Trip
• How to Get There:  Just under an hour driving, just over an hour with the Train.

Sigulda makes a great day trip or a longer escape from the city. Known for dense forests, castles, and parks, the city has one other attraction that is well-known around the world. 

Sigulda is home to one of the world’s few operational bobsled tracks that are open to visitors – and you can ride a real bobsled down it!

Eric paid for the experience to be driven by a member of the Latvian sliding team – and WOW is it worth it!

The town itself is charming but the draw for people is the number of things to do that will excite you and keep you busy. You can learn more about Sigulda here .

Accommodation for Sigulda:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

• Estimated Time to Stay:  Day Trip
• How to Get There:   Train or Car both take about 40 minutes (train can be shorter or longer route depending)

If you’re done with Riga and want to check out more along the Gulf of Riga, then head to Jūrmala. This beach town is a resort city that lies just west of the capital making it a great day trip.

The city is known for its massive sandy beach that gets busy in the summers as people head there to cool off and hang out by the water.

The shore is lined with seaside villas and other shops made from wood seeming like they were plucked from another era!

There are also a few parks and wooded areas that are great for small walks and hikes. Learn more about visiting Jūrmala here .

Accommodation for Jūrmala:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

Pärnu + Soomaa Wetlands

• Estimated Time to Stay: 1 Night
• How to Get There:  Car or Bus are about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Riga (slightly longer from Sigulda or Jūrmala)

If you want to enjoy the Estonian version of Jūrmala, then head to Pärnu. Known for its Estonian sunshine and sandy beach, Pärnu Beach is a resort town with youthful vibes, cool art, and historical bathhouses scattered through the city. 

Pärnu is actually the fourth largest city in Estonia but the population balloons in the summertime with tourists and locals coming out to enjoy the water in Pärnu Bay.

From restaurants to nightlife there’s something for everyone. Check out more to do in Pärnu here .

Nearby, the Soomaa Wetlands are located in Soomaa National Park. The park itself is known for its high water. This makes the area great for canoeing and sighting wildlife.

Accommodation for Pärnu:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

• Estimated Time to Stay: 2 or 3 Nights
• How to Get There:   Car, Bus, or Train – just over an hour, 1.5 hours, or 2.5 hours, respectively, from  Pärnu

Oh, Tallinn. Such a beautiful city. Eric was lucky enough to be guided around Tallinn by his former flatmate from when he lived in Edinburgh.

Needless to say, having a local around was a great way to experience the city! It was great to have a local show Eric around – she’s even (since) written a guide on spending one day in Tallinn !

Tallinn is known for its Old Town. So, you should start off with a wander there. The bright rooftops and cobblestone alleyways transport you back into medieval times.

There is quite a bit of history and amazing restaurants, cafes, and churches in the area. We walked around with our local guide but you could hop on a bike and take a guided tour – might be lots faster and you’ll get some exercise!

If you are done with attractions in the city centre, you should visit the Tallinn Tv Tower which is located just a quick bus ride away. As the tallest building in Northern Europe, it’s a pretty great attraction that is worth the view for the price of admission!

Eric visited with his friend and even though the views were a little cloudy it was still amazing to see the countryside and the Baltic Sea! If you know you want to go in the high season – get a line skip ticket for the Tallinn Tv Tower .

As for sleeping, Eric stayed at Red Emperor Bar and Hostel.  For the price and the location, the hostel was good. There was a bar onsite (never got too crazy, just very social) with a lounge for loud and another one for quiet.

The rooms were standard – good lockers, good bunks, good bathroom facilities. The staff was very chill and you even get a beer with check-in!

The location is just outside the Old Town so like we said – it’s a good place to crash for a few nights and meet interesting people.

Accommodation for Tallinn:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

Lahemaa National Park

• How to Get There:  Car, Bus, or even a Taxi – each take about 45 minutes one way from Tallinn

With a landscape and wildlife similar to Canada (they are at similar latitudes to parts of Northern Canada), Lahemaa National Park is a nature lover’s dream.

Lahemaa is just a short distance from Tallinn yet it’s such an important forested area for conservation in Northern Europe that includes hiking to rock cliffs, waterfalls, beaches, and even moose!

If you want to learn more about Lahemaa, you can check out the official website . To make the trip even more simple, you could make the day trip a day tour to Lahemaa from Tallinn with a guide.

Optional – Day Trip to Helsinki

• Estimated Time to Stay: Day Trip or Overnight Trip
• How to Get There:  Ferry from Tallinn is 3 hours. Flying takes 30 minutes (Eric did it by accident – it’s a long story).

Ah yes, a Helsinki day trip from Tallinn. Taking the ferry to Finland is a great option if you’ve got a day to kill and you’ve seen everything in Tallinn and the surrounding area.

That said, we wrote a whole post on how to take the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki (and back) so check that out if you are interested!

Once you get to Helsinki, there is loads to do and see. Eric only had a few hours to explore the city but really wants to return with Lisa since she’s never been. I

f you want to know what to check out in Helsinki, read the guide written by our local connection Nick about  the perfect day in Helsinki ! That said if you DID want to sleep there, check below for great places to stay in Helsinki.

Accommodation for Helsinki:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

And there you have it – a few great ideas and a rough itinerary around the Baltics. In the end, there is so much to check out in these tiny countries that you’ll end up coming back for another trip or two.

This post was just to get you acquainted with the countries and the idea of travelling the Baltics! What do you think? Have you been to the Baltics or are you considering it? We can’t wait to get back there because Eric wants to show Lisa around! We’ll keep ya posted!

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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!

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The Perfect Baltics Travel Itinerary: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Finland

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• Last Updated On: November 21, 2023

The Baltics were always high on my list of places to visit in Europe. It’s a lesser traveled (although rapidly changing), cheaper, and equally as beautiful area of Northern Europe. The history of this region is very unique  As the Baltic countries are small and neighbor each other, I always wanted to do the countries at the same time.

The Baltics comprises three countries: Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Finland is part of Scandinavia but for the purposes of this itinerary, it is part of the Baltics as there is an easy ferry connection between Tallinn and Helsinki so I couldn’t pass up adding this to my trip! This itinerary is for anyone that has roughly 8-10 days to visit this beautiful area of Europe.

Essentially, I allocated 2-3 nights per city which is enough in my opinion. If you have less days, this itinerary is also possible depending on which city you want to spend less time in. I also give ideas for those that have more time as there are so many charming little cities that are well worth the stop as well.

Where I went in the Baltics

I visited the Baltics for just over a week. As it is Europe, most of the sightseeing is done in the cities (with a few things to see in between). I went in end of April, beginning of May which was great because I got quite lucky with the weather. It was record temperatures in Riga and I could wear shorts for most of my trip. However, as this area is not know for its warm weather, expect volatile weather pretty much all throughout the year.

The summer months of course are most ideal as you get super long days and warmer weather but then you also have far more tourists. Even when visiting in April/May, the sun would set after 9pm and the temperature was a very comfortable 20-25 degrees while I was there.

In total, this itinerary is for anyone that has 7-10 days. Of course this itinerary can be shortened or lengthened depending on your schedule. I visited the following areas on this itinerary

• Vilnius, Lithuania
• Kaunas, Lithuania
• Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
• Riga, Latvia
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Helsinki, Finland

If these places ring a bell and sound like the places you want to visit, this is the perfect itinerary for you! Also, the Baltics can easily be combined with other countries like Poland to the south , Belarus, or Russia where you can easily combine St. Petersburg and Moscow. Of course, make sure you have your Russian visa before visiting.

Getting around the Baltics

The Baltics are small countries and getting around the countries is easy. There are numerous ways to get from one capital to the other and almost all these options are quite affordable. The Baltics are cheaper than Western Europe as they were under Soviet occupation less than 30 years ago, but it is not as cheap as say the Balkans .

Most people that I met got around the Balkans with Bus. There is solid bus service that connects Vilnius to Riga to Estonia and vice versa. There are also numerous bus companies that you can choose from but I mainly went with LuxExpress as they have a good website online. I’d definitely recommend booking your bus tickets a month in advance if possible. I checked bus tickets for same day departure at the Riga bus station and they were going for €20-30 whereas buying them in advance was under €10 euros.

The bus ride is 4-5 hours between Lithuania and Riga, as well as to Tallinn.

Flying with AirBaltic

Air Baltic is the national airline of Latvia (and de factor airlines of the other Baltic countries). They have multiple daily flights between Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki in all different combinations. Prices are also very cheap for under €50 one way. This is especially useful if you’re flying into Riga for example, going by land to Vilnius, and then you can fly AirBaltic from Vilnius to Tallinn and not have to take a 8-9 hour bus ride.

Getting around within the cities

All of the cities are very small and if you’re in the Old Town, you won’t need anything besides walking. However, if you need to go to the airport or some further away destination like the Marine Museum in Tallinn, then I can recommend using the ride share apps. Sure the public transport is fantastic in these cities but if you’re multiple people, ride sharing apps will be even cheaper than taking the metro. I’m a huge fan of ride sharing apps in foreign countries because it makes sure you don’t get ripped off.

Bolt (formerly Taxify) is a startup out of Tallinn that has a major presence in the Baltics. I used it for all my airport transfers and a few other rides and it is super cheap. From Vilnius to the airport, it was 20 minutes and only €4-6. Whatever you do, do not take the official taxi services because it is many times more expensive. For example, the metered taxis in Riga charged almost €30 for a transfer to the city when Bolt was €6!

There is also Uber in the Baltics, but not in Riga (yet).

Airbnb accommodations

Of course there are plenty of very cheap hostels that you can stay in, but if you are two or more people and want some privacy, the Airbnb options in the Baltics is fantastic. We stayed in huge and centrally located penthouse style accommodations in Vilnius and Riga for €100/night or so.

Full Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Vilnius, Lithuania.  Generally, most people start in Vilnius and work their way north to Helsinki, or vice versa. There is really no advantages/disadvantages to where you start, just a matter of which flights make the most sense at the time of travel.

I started in Vilnius where I spent two nights exploring the Old Town. From Vilnius, I took a full day tour from Vilnius to Riga that stopped at various locations in the countryside including Kaunas, and the Hill of Crosses (super cool). From Riga, I spent another 3 nights exploring the capital of Latvia. I took a day trip to Jurmala which is a beachside town about 30 minutes away. From Riga, I took a bus to Tallinn, Estonia for 2 nights. Finally, I took the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki where I spent 2 quick nights before flying home from Helsinki.

Compared to other destinations like Peru and Bolivia , or Guatemala and Belize , traveling around Europe is quite simple so this itinerary should be very easy to follow!

Day 1-3: Vilnius, Lithuania

The itinerary starts in Vilnius, Lithuania! Like I mentioned before, if you’re landing at the airport, skip the taxis entirely and go straight for Bolt or Uber as it should be no more than €6 for a trip to the old town. Otherwise take the bus which is also quick for just €1.

Vilnius is perhaps of the least known capital cities in Europe, but it won’t be for much longer. It’s old town is a Unesco protected heritage site and boasts an endless maze of cobblestone streets, cafes, restaurants, museums, and bars. It is also adorned with beautiful baroque and neoclassical buildings with colorful stucco rooftops.

What to do in Vilnius

As I like to do for all my trips around Europe, I always start with the free walking tour in a new city. This always gives me a good flavor and the highlights of the city that I can choose to re-visit later on in the trip. There are a few free walking tours in the city leaving at various times throughout the day. We visited all the highlights of the city and got in depth history lessons as well.

It seems that the three countries share similar history in that they were all pagan at one point before being forcefully converted in some degree by Germanic missionaries in the medieval ages. In more recent history, all three countries were controlled by the Nazis during world war 2 before succumbing to generations of Russian rule in the Soviet Union. One of the most interesting things I learnt was that the Baltic countries cannot understand each other. Latvian and Lithuanian are similar but not enough where they can hold a conversation, while Estonian is completely different and more similar to Finnish but also not similar enough to make conversation.

For views of the city, visit the Belltower of St. John’s Church

For the best views of the city, go to the Belltower of the St. John’s Church. It is just a €3 entrance fee and there is an elevator taking you to the very top. The belltower offers panoramic views of the old town where you can see the hill of three crosses and the Gediminas Castle. I prefer this view to the one at the castle because the belltower is in the city center giving you better views Vilnius’ red rooftops.

Vilnius is a beautiful city on the ground. The buildings are all in fantastic condition and the architecture of beautiful baroque variety. From the air, you can see that all the buildings are adorned with orange stucco rooftops that make it look like a Baltic version of Dubrovnik . The church also doesn’t see that many tourists so we had the entire viewing platform to ourselves for much of the day.

Visit the neighborhood of Uzupis

Užupis, a cool and edgy neighbourhood on the wrong side of the Vilnia River, declared itself an independent republic on April 1, 1997. Say what you will about autonomous hipsters, but the postcode is awash with trendy bars, shops (conceptual shoe shop, anyone?) and restaurants. Make sure you have a pint in the country’s “parliament” by the river, where the state’s constitution is on display.

Eat some Lithuanian Food

The Baltics are not known for their culinary prowess and I’m here to say that you won’t be wowed by the food but there are a few items that you  must try. My favorite thing that I had in the Baltics is also the most simplest, fried rye bread with cheese sauce or kepta duona in Lithuanian. It doesn’t sound that appetizing but this is the ultimate bar food after a good chicken wing. I’m not sure why this hasn’t been adopted anywhere else because it would be incredibly successful. If you don’t eat this here, don’t worry as they have it all over the Baltics.

Another food I enjoyed was the cepelinai, or stuffed potato dumplings. These are special soft potatoes that have been boiled and stuffed with ground meat covered with a sour cream and bacon sauce. It is tasty, incredibly filling, and certainly not healthy.

Day 4: Day Trip from Vilnius to Riga with Riga Travellers

Day 4 is about getting from Vilnius to Riga. Most people will elect for the bus services between the two cities but I stumbled upon a much more interesting and innovative concept.

Riga Travellers started out by doing small tours around Riga before coming up with the idea of doing a full day trip between Riga and Vilnius and stopping at the numerous sights in between. There are a few very cool things to see in the Lithuanian countryside that you would need to travel the whole day for anyway so why not see those things  and end up in the next destination of the itinerary in Riga!

The total cost of the trip was €65 which is considerably more than the regular bus but I think it is well worth it. Our guide was very engaging and had a lot to tell us about the culture of the two countries. All in all, we made 5 stops along the way and it was about 11-12 hours in total. We left at 9am and arrived just before 9pm. You can also do this trip in reverse, Riga to Vilnius.

They also offer Riga to Tallinn tours (and vice versa) so this is a great way to get around the Baltics!

Trakai Castle

Trakai Castle is the first stop of the day. Located on Lake Galve, the Trakai castle was built by Lithuanian Dukes in the 14th century and was used as a residence. It is the only island castle in Eastern Europe. Nowadays it is a big tourist attraction and serves as perhaps one of the most epic settings for summer music festivals. If you have more time in Vilnius, I would recommend coming here on your own for sunset as I hear the views are spectacular.

Kaunas City

Kaunas, Lithuania’s second biggest city was the second stop fo the day. During the past couple of years, Kaunas has invested heavily into tourism and infrastructure making it an attractive city for all travelers. The old town is much smaller than Vilnius but boasts the same beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets.

We didn’t have much time here unfortunately and if I had more time, I would definitely have stayed here for a night. There are loads of craft breweries in Kaunas producing delicious local brews that I wanted to try.

Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses was next on the list after lunch. A Christian pilgrimage site with hundreds of thousands of wooden crosses erected on a small hill in Lithuania. The crosses start appearing as a protest to Russian occupation of Lithuanian lands. Families would plant crosses as a way to remember those sent to Siberia to their inevitable deaths. During soviet occupation, religion was of course not a thing so they bulldozed the site on numerous occasions and put soldiers to guard the site from future crosses.

Lithuanians continued sneaking in and planting rogue crosses until it was bulldozed again. And again. Nowadays, the Russians are no longer there and the amount of crosses have increased to the point where all walks of life are remembered here. It is supremely impressive to look at. I had no idea that this was on the itinerary and was completely wow’d at the sheer amount of crosses and the attention to detail of many of them. This was probably the highlight of the day in my opinion. We also visited on a sunny day but I can definitely see this place being super creepy on dark cloudy winter day. In fact, it would be the perfect place for a horror movie setting!

Rundale Castle

The next stop was the Rundale Castle, crafted by one of Lithuania’s dukes. It’s a nice palace with a big garden but if you’ve been to the Schonbrunn Palace in Austria , or the Palace of Versailles in France, then this will just look like any other palace.

Salaspils Soviet Memorial

The Salaspils Memorial Ensemble was erected where an extended police prison and labour correctional camp of Nazi Germany was located from 1941 to 1945. The memorial consists of a museum housed in a large open-air rectangular structure, and many statues. These statues showcase the struggle of the Latvian people, as well as the stoic might of the Soviet liberators. I found the statues to be a big creepy but overall, the memorial was very unique.

The museum inside the wooden building is also quite interesting as it shows the conditions that people had to endure here. A grim view for sure but a reminder of what much of Europe had to endure in the 1940s.

After this last memorial, we were only about 20 minutes from Riga where we ended our tour just before 9pm. Just in time for dinner in the city.

Day 4-6: Riga, Latvia

The next part of the itinerary centers around Riga. With around 700,000 people, Riga is the largest city in the Baltics. In its 800 years of turbulent history, everyone from German knights to Swedish kings and Soviet commissars have left their footprints, and today Latvia’s capital is an exciting European metropolis at the crossroads of eastern and northern Europe.

Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobblestones and breathtaking river views, as well as Europe’s Wifi capital with almost 1,000 spots to get online for free.

Walking Tour of Riga

As always, I sought out the free walking tour which is offered by multiple companies at multiple times throughout the day. Our guide was a big quirky taking us too way too many Guild houses that were the meeting points of Latvian fisherman in the past. Nevertheless, we visited all the main churches and buildings of Latvia, and received a lot of history lessons along the way.

Visit the food market

Riga is an adventure for the taste buds too.  The enormous Central Market  is a treasure trove of earthy sausage, cheese and black bread, smoked fish, and much more. Sample the goods on a picnic in one of Riga’s lovely parks, or enjoy a hearty meal in many great value bistro and cafes.

To wash it down, sample intriguing local beers in the brew pubs along hipster strip Miera iela, or a cocktail with the mysterious Riga Black Balsam in fun-filled bars across town.

Visit St Peter’s Church for Panoramic Views

Like I did for every other Baltic country, I always look for viewing points. St Peter’s Church is the best place to do this in Riga. Located at the top of 9 floors at the spire of St Peter’s church, you have 360 degree views of the city. The entrance fee is €9 and is well worth it.

Rooftop drinks at the Galleria Mall

While most people recommend the rooftop at the Radisson Blu, I would whole-heartedly recommend you skip that and walk down the street to the Galleria Mall. The Radisson Blu is much higher and the view is spectacular but it is enclosed. The rooftop at the Galleria Mall (on the 8th floor) is completely open so you can watch the sunset, feel the air, and an overall much better experience.

Cocktails here are a very reasonable €7.5 and they are delicious. Grab some cocktails and watch the sunset!

Day 6-8: Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is the last stop in the Baltics. From Riga, you can take a quick bus ride or an even quicker plane ride to Tallinn.

The Old Town consists of the Upper Town or Toompea located on a hill, currently housing the parliament and the government of Estonia, and the Lower Town with many wonderful theatres, cafés, restaurants and pubs in addition to its sights. The Old Town is surrounded by the fortifications of the medieval Tallinn city wall and a green area that runs along the former esplanade.

Free walking tour in Tallinn

The free walking tour in Tallinn goes every day and meets in the city center square at multiple times during the day. Starting from May, they meet at 10am, 12pm, and 3pm. As always, I find that free walking tours are always very interesting and this one was no different.

Our guide really knew her stuff and had great stories to tell about the history of Estonia, the culture, language, food etc. The walking tour was about 2 hours and we visited many of the highlights of the city including numerous churches, fortified walls of the city, viewpoints, and much more.

I learned a lot from our guide. Estonia is one of the, if not the least religious countries in the world. The Baltics were one of the last areas of Europe to “convert” to Christianity and Estonia was never really all about it. In fact, after their independence from the Soviet Union, they had plans to take down some of the churches in the city as no one ever used them. They realized they were iconic landmarks to foreign tourists and would be better served as such.

Visit the Creative neighborhood of Teleskivi

Everyone should pay a visit to the neighborhood of Teleskivi just outside of the old town of Tallinn. Think of this neighborhood as the nouveau, industrial, and ultra hipster neighborhood of Tallinn. There are loads of craft beers, restaurants in converted train cabins, and more.

It was once Soviet origin factories and nowadays is the center of the vibrant artist and startup communities in Estonia. Estonia is the startup capital of Europe nowadays and Tallinn is the epicenter.

For views, visit the Kohtuotsa Viewing platform

For the best views of the city, head over to the Kohtuotsa Viewing platform. It is completely free and it was part of the walking tour I did. I came back later and spent more time here as the crowds were less. This would also be a great place to bring some drinks and enjoy the sunset over Tallinn’s skyline in the summertime.

Day 8: Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki

The next step on the list is Helsinki, Finland! While Helsinki is not a part of the Baltics but rather Scandinavia, it is super close to Tallinn. From Tallinn, it is just a 2 hour ride to the capital of Finland.

While exploring the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Finland, a unique aspect of Finnish leisure that’s gaining popularity is the concept of  1 euron talletus casino . These online casinos offer the convenience of enjoying a variety of games with a minimal deposit of just one euro. This feature is particularly appealing for those who prefer to experience the thrill of casino gaming without a significant financial commitment. Whether you’re relaxing in your hotel room after a day of sightseeing or enjoying the serene Finnish landscapes, these online casinos provide an accessible and enjoyable form of entertainment at any time.   

Which ferry company should I use from Tallinn to Helsinki?

There are three companies that service this route: Viking Line, Eckero, and Tallink . Tallink has the newest boats and is the most expensive, while Eckero is the cheapest. The three companies seem to use the same type of ships which are the size of small cruise ships. They are all car ferries so you’d expect the boats to be large.

I saw pictures of the new Tallink Megastar and it looks absolutely stunning. When looking for tickets, Tallink charged €30-40 per ticket, Viking was €25-30, and Eckero was the cheapest at €20 or so. These prices probably fluctuate greatly but I ended up just booking the cheapest ticket which was with Eckero. You can buy your ticket online or at the ferry terminal.

It is such a short ferry ride that it doesn’t matter what you end up using. Ferries are pretty frequent and you can find one of the companies ships once an hour that do this route.

I was very impressed with the Eckero ferry. I went straight to the top of the boat to the sun deck to enjoy the views. They had a bar outside where I could sample some of the local Finnish beers. There is free wifi but the signal was pretty spotty at best. They also have what looks to be a delicious buffet for €24 per person.

Day 8-10: Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is a beautiful and peaceful capital, famous not only for its history and heritage but for its Old Town, coastline and archipelagos. The city offers a wide range of historic attractions, top museums, art galleries, tours and experiences for everyone to enjoy.

I was very impressed with Helsinki. It is totally an underrated city that I feel like many people forget about when visiting Europe. When people visit Scandinavia, they tend to gravitate to Oslo or Copenhagen. If they visit the Baltics, then Estonia, Latvia or Lithuania because it is significantly cheaper. Helsinki is kind of somewhere in between. This is good because it means less tourists and especially less drunk Brits on their Stags.

I came away totally impressed with the city. The architecture and buildings are stunning, the streets are super clean and orderly as you would expect from Northern Europeans, and the views from the harbor are fantastic. If Helsinki is the last stop on your Baltic itinerary, one thing to note is that it is considerably more expensive in Finland than it is in the Baltics. Beers are €8-10 on average, and food is twice the price. Starting from Vilnius, you can expect your trip to get gradually more expensive with Finland being the biggest shock to the system.

Free walking tour of Helsinki

I did the free walking tour with Green Cap tours, which appeared to be the only outfit in Helsinki doing these free walking tours. They only do it once a day at 11am and expect it to be packed. My Finnish guide was one of the most knowledgeable and interesting guys I’ve had. He had a lot to say about Finnish culture, like why the language is so different than their Scandinavian neighbors, the Finn’s obsession with karaoke, and all your standard history tidbits.

Here are some highlights of the  Helsinki Free Walking  by  Green Cap Tours

• Senate Square
• Helsinki Cathedral
• University of Helsinki
• Wellfare State functions
• Bank of Finland
• The Mecca of the Finnish Karaoke Scene
• Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral
• Presidential Palace
• Sauna Centre
• Market Square
• Epicenter of National Celebration called Vappu
• Esplanade Park

Old Market Hall

The old market hall is one of the most popular sights in Helsinki. Located next to the main harbor, come here to sample some delicious local Finnish cuisine like Salmon soup, open faced sandwiches, and Reindeer meat. They also have other cuisines here as well like kebabs and Vietnamese food.

The food is not cheap however, as you can expect to pay upwards of €70/kg of salmon. I sampled a bit of everything from the salmon to the reindeer, but found that the best deal was the Bahn Mi sandwiches at the Vietnamese shop that was only €5.5 per sandwich.

Day trip to Suomenlina

One of the most popular historic attractions in Helsinki is the UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Suomelinna Fortress Island , which played an integral part in the naval history and defense under Swedish, Russian and Finnish rule. A visit to this fascinating island includes a guided tour, three museums, and a submarine! Another historic landmark not to be missed is the stunning  Rock Church  for its awe-inspiring architecture.

The ferry to Suomenlina Island leaves from the Helsinki harbor every 20 minutes and the cost is €5 for roundtrip tickets. Make sure to take the public ferry for the cheapest price as opposed to the smaller boats nearby that advertise this as a tour.

Day by Day breakdown of Baltics Itinerary

Here is a day by day breakdown of the Baltics itinerary. It is pretty straight forward trip as it mostly focuses on visiting the big cities.

Day 1: Land in Vilnius to start the trip Day 2: Full day Vilnius Day 3: Full day Vilnius Day 4: Vilnius to Riga full day tour stopping at various locations along the way Day 5: Riga full day Day 6: Riga to Tallinn Day 7: Full day Tallinn Day 8: Tallinn to Helsinki ferry Day 9: Full day Helsinki Day 10: Depart Helsinki

Two week Baltic Itinerary

If I had another 4-5 days, I would structure my trip like this as I could spend more time in some of the smaller cities which also deserve some time:

Day 1: Land in Vilnius to start the trip Day 2: Full day Vilnius Day 3: Full day Vilnius Day 4: Vilnius to Kaunas, spend the night in Kaunus Day 5: Kaunus to Riga, with stops at Hill of Crosses Day 6: Full day in Riga Day 7: Riga to Jurmala beach town Day 8: Riga to Tartu, spend night in Tartu Day 9: Tartu to Tallinn Day 10: Full day in Tallinn Day 11: Full day in Tallinn Day 12: Tallinn to Helsinki Day 13: Full day in Helsinki Day 14:  Helsinki to Turku Day 15: Turku back to Helsinki for a flight home

Combining The Baltics with Russia

I have not visited Russia yet as the visa is a huge pain to obtain but if you have even more time, this itinerary would be perfect in combination with Russia’s highlights including St Petersburg and Moscow. From Tallinn or Helsinki, there are trains and ferries that make the journey into Russia in a matter of hours. I will eventually visit Russia and make another itinerary combining these destinations!

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Any concerns about safety while in the area, given the conflict in Ukraine?

Hi Andrea, I would not be concerned with safety there. It’s an EU country and part of NATO. If Russia actually attacked it would be WW3 and even they are not that stupid.

Hello! I love this post , thank you for writing this up ! What was the name of your tour through Lithuania on your way to Riga? Thank you

Hi Kath, I used Riga Traveller tours as my way to get from city to city. They are fantastic and perfect way to get from one city to the other while seeing some cool stuff in between!

If you go for any tour you have frequently known the place of that country. But for better travelling and also safety purpose you have choose a Transportation service provider company. Last month I had visited for a tour in Latvia through the Riga Airport Transfer company. This company provide best travel & transportation service in Latvia. I had seen many beautiful scenario and enjoy the delicious food of Riga restaurant. This tour is one of the best tour for me because I had comfortably visit all these places.

Nice to come across your blog, very informative. I’m also planning similar route as yours, will it be too tight? I am travelling solo, usually faster pace. Or Do I need to give another 1-2 days more?

Day 1: Arrive Helsinki at 7am Day 2: Fly to Vilnius, arrive 9am Day 3: Vilnius Day 4: Day trip to Kaunas Day 5: Bus to Riga Day 6: Riga Day 7: Bus to Tallinn Day 8: Tallinn (Midnight bus to St Petersburg)

Hi jas, I think this is probably enough but could recommend another day in Helsinki. But if you can’t swing another day, I wouldn’t sweat it!

Thanks Johnny! That’s very helpful, I will find out more for Helsinki.

Sauna is very popular attraction in the Baltics (different from Finnish sauna). Sauna is getting more and more popular among tourists and I personally know foreign tourists who return to Baltics every!! year just to have sauna procedure which usually last for up to 5 hours max for 2 persons and gives absolutely magical bliss, restart of the mind and body and life long memories of this part of the world. Strongly suggested while in these beautiful countries. 🙂

That’s good to know! I didn’t nkow about this and will def look into it next time I’m there.

The Ultimate 10-Day Baltic Itinerary: How to Visit Baltics?

Wondering how to visit Baltic countries and what to see in Baltics? This article covers it all and includes a 10-day Baltic itinerary that you will want to steal.

The Baltic countries consist of Estonia , Latvia , and Lithuania and are located in Northern Europe. It used to be a true hidden gem in Europe, however, nowadays, this region has gained a lot of popularity and attracts many tourists from all over the world.

From the medieval Hanseatic League to the more recent Soviet era, the Baltics have endured and emerged as sovereign states, each with its language, traditions, and unique national character. And traveling around the Baltic countries guarantees unforgettable memories and sights.

This comprehensive Baltic guide will cover everything that you need to know before visiting Baltics. We will cover a lot of practical travel tips, like how to move around and when is the best time to visit the Baltics. And then we will dive deeper into the perfect 10 days in Baltic itinerary for first-timers.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Useful information to know before visiting Baltic countries

Where are the baltic countries.

The Baltic countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are situated in Northern Europe, along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. Estonia is to the north, Latvia in the middle, and Lithuania to the south, collectively creating the Baltic region. 

These nations form a distinctive region with shared historical ties and a rich cultural heritage. The geographical proximity to the Baltic Sea has significantly influenced the development of these nations over the centuries.

Are Baltics worth visiting?

Yes, exploring the Baltic countries is definitely worth it. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania offer a unique blend of rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures.

From the medieval charm of Tallinn’s Old Town to the Art Nouveau architecture of Riga and the serene natural beauty of Vilnius, the Baltics provide an amazing travel experience.

Whether you’re interested in historical sites, cultural traditions, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the region, the Baltics have something to offer for every traveler.

Is it safe to travel to the Baltic states?

Generally, the Baltic states are considered safe for travelers. They have low crime rates compared to many other European countries, however, like any travel destination, it’s essential to exercise common safety precautions.

While no place is entirely without risk, the Baltic countries are one of the safest places in Europe for travelers who take basic precautions and stay informed about their surroundings. Which makes it a great destination for solo female travelers as well.

Are Baltic countries cheap?

The Baltic countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are often considered more budget-friendly compared to many Western European destinations. While prices may vary depending on specific locations and your personal spending habits, the Baltics generally offer good value for money.

Accommodation, food, and transportation costs in the Baltic states are often more affordable than in Western Europe. Local markets and eateries can provide cost-effective dining options, and public transportation is usually reasonably priced.

I have to mention that over the years the Baltics have raised the prices, so if you visited these countries a couple of years ago, you might be surprised. However, you can certainly plan a budget trip to Baltic countries.

That being said, the level of perceived affordability can vary from person to person, and factors like the specific cities you visit, the type of accommodation you choose, and your lifestyle preferences will influence your overall expenses.

How to get around Baltic countries?

Getting around the Baltic countries is relatively easy, and there are various transportation options to choose from. Let’s dive in and explore the ways to get around Baltic countries.

Public Transportation: Each capital city—Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius—has well-developed public transportation systems, including buses and trams. Public transport is an affordable and efficient way to explore these cities.

Buses: Intercity buses connect major towns and cities in the Baltic region. Several bus companies operate, providing a cost-effective means of traveling between countries and exploring different regions.

Trains: The Baltic countries have a rail network that connects major cities. Trains are a comfortable option for traveling between capitals and other notable destinations. Check the schedules and book tickets in advance for long-distance journeys.

Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient option if you want to explore rural areas or have more flexibility in your itinerary. However, you won’t need a car to follow this Baltic itinerary.

Taxis: Taxis are available in urban areas, and ride-sharing services like Bolt operate in some cities. Taxis are a convenient option for short distances or when public transportation is less practical.

If you are planning to follow this Baltic States travel itinerary, you will use the bus to move between Baltic capitals. Make sure you check Flixbus for the most affordable prices and purchase your ticket in advance. Other great alternatives include EcoLines and Lux Express.

When you finally reach the Baltic capitals, you will be walking most of the time. Occasionally, you can hop on a public transport or book a Bolt ride. And to explore the countries beyond the capital, you will be able to use buses or trains. Or join some of the best tours.

However, you don’t have to worry about these things, because this 10-day Baltic itinerary will include all these details and all the information on how to travel between Baltic states.

When is the best time to visit Baltic countries?

The best time to visit the Baltic countries—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Here’s a general overview.

Summer (June to August)

This is the peak tourist season when the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Summer brings longer days, allowing for more exploration and outdoor activities. However, popular tourist destinations can be more crowded during this time.

If you ask my personal preference, summer is the best time to explore the Baltics and make the most of your trip. 

Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October)

These shoulder seasons offer milder temperatures, fewer tourists, and the added beauty of blooming flowers in spring or colorful foliage in fall. It’s a good compromise between pleasant weather and avoiding the crowds.

The fall foliage was one of my favorite seasons growing up in Latvia, however, you will have a high chance of rain and a cloudy sky.

RELATED : Why You Should Visit Latvia in Autumn?

Winter (November to March)

Winter can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. If you enjoy Christmas markets and winter sports like skiing, this could be an excellent time to visit, especially in Lithuania. However, many outdoor attractions may be less accessible during this period.

Chasing winter wonderland in the Baltics is a truly unique experience and overall, it is more affordable compared to Scandinavian winter destinations.

How many days in the Baltic countries?

The ideal duration for your visit to the Baltic countries depends on the depth of exploration you desire and your travel preferences. However, the Baltic itinerary for first-timers should consist of at least 10 days.

During the 10 days in the Baltics, you will be able to discover the essence of the Baltic capitals and even pick one of the best day trips to see beyond the big cities.

I have to say that this is a relatively easy Baltic itinerary for 10 days because I want you to enjoy your time not just chase sights. Also, it is very flexible, so you can easily exclude the things that you don’t want to see or visit and add other alternatives.

What is the best route to visit Baltic countries?

The best route to visit the Baltic countries often depends on your starting point and personal preferences. However, if you’re looking for a general route that covers the highlights in a logical sequence, you might consider the following.

Start in Tallinn, explore the Estonian capital and beyond. Head south to Riga, spend a few of days there, and then make a day trip to see more of Latvia. Conclude your trip with a stop in Vilnius and plan a short visit to Trakai.

You can also do the same route and start from Vilnius instead. If you have to fly back from your arrival point, plan an extra day on the route, which is not ideal, but totally doable.

The ultimate Baltic itinerary for 10 days

This is a quick overview of your Baltic itinerary for 10 days.

• 2 days in Tallinn
• Day trip from Tallinn
• 2 days in Riga (with an optional extra day)
• Day trip from Riga
• 2 days in Vilnius
• Day trip from Vilnius to Trakai.

If you are wondering how to see the best of the Baltic in 10 days, you will need to plan at least 3 day trips – one from each capital. But if you want to see other beautiful places to visit in the Baltics, you can always add an extra day.

Also, I suggest you plan a day trip, so you don’t have to worry about checking out and checking in to a different hotel every day and drag your luggage with you. This way you can base yourself in each Baltic capital for 3 days and plan a short trip from there.

As you can see there is an extra day for Riga, however, you can use it for an additional day trip from Tallinn or Riga, depending on your interests. Or you can simply enjoy a chill day in the middle of your trip. If not, this trip to the Baltics will take 9 days, but I wanted to keep it flexible.

This is truly the best way to spend 10 days in the Baltics. But let’s dive deeper and discover more details of your Baltic vacation.

The northernmost capital, Tallinn, is a blend of medieval charm and modern vitality. The heart of the city is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where cobblestone streets wind through well-preserved medieval structures.

Tallinn’s skyline is dominated by the imposing Toompea Castle and the spires of churches like St. Olaf’s Church and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

It is the starting point of a 10-day Baltic sightseeing itinerary. 2 days in Tallinn is the perfect amount of time to enjoy all the essentials of Tallinn, taste unique food, and try unforgettable experiences.

In this itinerary, we will cover how to spend 2 days in Tallinn and how to maximize your time in this charming city. I will add some optional stops, so this itinerary suits different travelers and interests.

RELATED : 40 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Tallinn, Estonia

2 days in Tallinn itinerary

Day 1 in Tallinn

• Morning: Viru Gate, self-guided tour in the Old Town, Town Hall Square, Town Hall Pharmacy.
• Lunch: Pub Kompressor.
• Afternoon: Hellemann Tower, St Olaf’s church or Cafe Maiasmokk (optional), Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Kohtuotsa viewing platform, Patkuli viewing platform.
• Dinner: Draakon or Rukkilill Cafe.

Day 2 in Tallinn

• Morning: Rotermani (optional), Kadriorg.
• Lunch: Balti Jaam.
• Afternoon: Telliskivi, Fotografiska.
• Dinner: Old Hansa or Cru.

If you want to see a detailed version of this itinerary, make sure you read how to spend 2 days in Tallinn . It includes a lot of useful tips that will help you in the planning process.

Day 3 – pick the day trip from Tallinn

The compact size of Estonia and the convenient location of Tallinn means that you can plan an amazing day trip from Tallinn and see beyond the Estonian capital. If you ask me, there are a lot of great options for nature lovers and I would focus on that, but it is up to you.

Click here to discover the best day trips from Tallinn to fill up 3rd day of your complete Baltic itinerary for 10 days. You will see that you can even go to Helsinki, but considering that you are on a mission to discover the Baltic states, let’s just focus on the places within Estonia.

Where to stay in Tallinn?

It is important to find the right accommodation for your trip, so I have prepared a list of the best hotels in Tallinn for every budget. Depending on your travel style, I am sure you will find something suitable, so take a look and decide where to stay in Tallinn.

Luxury: Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn

If your travel to Tallinn is focused on a luxurious experience, the Radisson Collection Hotel is the right hotel for you.

This modern and stylish hotel offers all the comforts to its guests, including a rooftop terrace on the 24th floor. Some rooms boast stunning city views, while some others even include a sauna.

Unique: Schlössle Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World 

If you want to make your 2 days in Tallinn unforgettable, Schlössle Hotel is the place to be. Renovated in 2016, this stylish 5-star hotel is housed in 13th-century buildings in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town. 

The wonderful atmosphere, the antique furniture, and the sauna are just some of the reasons that make Schlössle Hotel a unique place to stay for your Tallinn vacation.

Mid-Range: Citybox Tallinn City Center

Citybox Tallinn City Center is a very modern hotel that is the perfect location to visit Tallinn without giving up any comfort and without squandering your finances.

Located between the port and the Old Town, it’s perfect if you have three or two days in Tallinn.

Affordable: St.Olav Hotel

St.Olav Hotel is the perfect place to explore Tallinn if you are on a budget. The hotel is housed in an ancient palace, it offers many rooms and can keep a competitive price.

The rooms are basic but nicely decorated and the location inside the Old Town is perfect for spending a long weekend in Tallinn.

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a city that seamlessly intertwines its medieval past with a more cosmopolitan present. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a picturesque maze of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares.

Riga’s rich architectural heritage is particularly notable in the Art Nouveau district, where intricate facades showcase the city’s artistic flair. The vibrant Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars, is another must-visit place in Riga.

It is your next stop on Baltic States travel itinerary and you can choose whether to spend 2 or 3 days in Riga. I am originally from Riga, so want to share it through the eyes of a local and help you discover beyond the main attractions, so I suggest you plan 3 days, but that is up to you.

RELATED : 100 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Riga, Latvia

2 days in Riga itinerary

Day 1 in Riga

• Morning: Mārtiņa Beķereja, Latvian National Opera, Freedom Monument, Bastejkalna Park, Livu Square, The Swedish Gate, Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architecture.
• Lunch: Ezītis miglā or Petergailis.
• Afternoon: Our Lady of Sorrows Church and St. Saviour’s Anglican Church, Riga Cathedral, DOM Restaurant , House of the Black Heads, views from the St. Peter’s Church.
• Dinner: Salve Restaurant, ALA Pagrabs.

Day 2 in Riga

• Morning: Riga Central Market, Latvian Academy of Sciences .
• Lunch: Lido (either Dzirnavu or LIDO Atpūtas centrs).
• Afternoon: Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, Corner House or Latvian National Museum Of Art, Art Nouveau district.
• Dinner: Riviera or Lidojošā varde, Cloud Nine.

In order to get a better look at this itinerary, please read this travel guide for 3 days in Riga . It covers the following day but you can easily turn into a day trip if you prefer. Also, you will find a lot of useful travel tips for visiting Riga.

Optional extra day in Riga

If you still want to explore Riga and discover all the hidden gems in the Latvian capital, here is a list of places you don’t want to miss.

Head to the left side of Daugava and enjoy the views on your back. I suggest you cross Vanšu Bridge and make a stop at the Vanšu Bridge Viewpoint.

After head to Agenskalns where you will find a vibrant market and the picturesque Holy Trinity Church located in Meža iela 2. Nearby, you will also find the National Library of Latvia, which is a gem of modern architecture.

You can end your day with a sunset over Riga panorama and visit AB Dambis for some of the best views of Riga.

If you prefer spending a day in nature, the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia is a good idea to take a glimpse at the old Latvian way of life. Another hot spot to enjoy some sunny days in Latvia is Mežaparks. This beautiful modern park is one of the most loved by the locals.

If these locations don’t excite you, feel free to skip to the next day.

Day 4 – pick the day trip from Riga

Just like Tallinn, Riga offers some amazing day trip options because of its small size and convenient location. While Tallinn day trips are great for nature lovers, Latvia offers some great cityscapes to historical towns, and charming villages.

Click here to discover the best day trips from Riga and decide the next stop of your Baltic States travel itinerary. This article features some of the best cities to visit in the Baltics, however, it includes some great spots in nature as well.

Where to stay in Riga?

Riga is not a big city and you shouldn’t have any problems moving around, but there are some tips to make your weekend in Riga even more sufficient.

The old town (Vecrīga) is the most beautiful area of Riga. The city center (Centrs) is a big area in the heart of Riga, but I don’t advise you to go anywhere after Lāčplēša Street. The area near the Freedom Monument is great and very practical.

If you are looking at the map, you see that Riga is divided by a river called Daugava. And it might look close, but I don’t advise staying on the other side of Daugava. It can be trafficked and not very pleasant to walk.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

If you want to have a luxurious and romantic escape during your Baltic vacation, this is your place to go.

Grand Hotel Kempinski is one of the most popular 5-star hotels in Riga and it offers phenomenal spa facilities to make your stay unforgettable. The location in the Old Town makes it perfect to discover the best photo spots in Riga.

Boutique: Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah

Grand Poet Hotel is the best place to stay in Riga with style. This fabulous five-star hotel in Riga’s old town is the best place for relaxing and sightseeing. In fact, guests have free access to the fitness center and spa zone.

The wellness center includes a pool, sauna, hot tub, and hammam. Various massages are offered at a surcharge.

Mid-range: Wellton Centrum Hotel & SPA

Wellton stands at the entrance of the old town, in one of the most picturesque streets in the Latvian capital. The hotel is stylish and also offers a great spa to relax after a day visiting Riga.

If you want to have a quality stay, at a reasonable price this is the right spot for you.

Affordable: Allure Rooms & Coffee

If you are looking for cheap accommodation while you visit Riga without giving up the quality, look no further.

This lovely guest house is conveniently located in the old town and it even offers a romantic view of Riga. It’s the perfect place to pick to get the best of your time in Riga at an affordable price.

Vilnius, the southernmost capital, is a city of contrasts and layers. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, unfolds with narrow alleys, baroque churches, and the iconic Gediminas’ Tower overlooking the city.

Beyond its historical treasures, Vilnius is a city that embraces modernity while cherishing its cultural roots. The Užupis district, often referred to as the “Republic of Užupis,” is a bohemian neighborhood that celebrates art, creativity, and free expression.

The culinary scene in Vilnius is a delightful reflection of the city’s diverse influences and traditions. From traditional Lithuanian dishes like “cepelinai” and “kugelis” to international cuisine, Vilnius offers a variety of dining experiences to suit every palate.

Just like the other Baltic capitals, you will need 2 days to see the best in Vilnius, and here are some of the best places that you absolutely have to see. 

2 days in Vilnius itinerary

Day 1 in Vilnius

• Morning: Gates of Dawn, Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit, Town Hall Square, Literatų g.- St. Anne’s Church.
• Lunch: Etno Dvaras.
• Afternoon: St. John the Baptist and St. John the Apostle and Evangelist Church, Cathedral Square, Gediminas Castle Tower.
• Dinner: Lokys or Senoji trobelė.

Day 2 in Vilnius

• Morning: Uzpis, Biržų duona, Subačiaus apžvalgos aikštelė.
• Lunch: Paupio Turgus.
• Afternoon: Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, Three Crosses Monument.
• Dinner: Ertlio Namas or Amatininkų Užeiga.

Day 3 – day trip from Vilnius to Trakai

While there are many beautiful sights around Lithuania, a day trip from Vilnius to Trakai is a must during your Baltic itinerary for 10 days. It is a wonderful choice to explore the historical and picturesque Trakai Castle and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

The centerpiece of Trakai is the majestic Trakai Island Castle, a masterpiece of medieval architecture set on an island in Lake Galve. This iconic fortress serves as the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and a symbol of the country’s medieval heritage.

Beyond the castle, Trakai town itself is a quaint and welcoming place. Visitors can stroll the charming streets, lined with traditional wooden houses, and perhaps stop in local cafes to try traditional Lithuanian delicacies.

Užutrakis Manor Estate, located near Trakai, further enriches the region’s appeal. The estate, with its elegant mansion and beautifully landscaped gardens, offers a glimpse into the life of Lithuania’s nobility. The expansive park, designed by renowned French and Italian architects, provides a peaceful retreat.

How to reach Trakai from Vilnius?

You can easily reach Trakai by using public transport since the buses regularly operate between Vilnius and Trakai. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. The ticket will cost you 3 euro and you can buy it at the station.

Another option is to train. Trains depart regularly from Vilnius Railway Station, and the journey takes around 30 minutes. The price is 2.80 euros and you can purchase your ticket at the station.

Taxi is also a popular choice to visit Trakai from Vilnius if you have limited time. The ride will cost you approximately 20 euros depending on the traffic.

Finally, there are plenty of companies that organize daily trips from Vilnius to Trakai. This one is one of the best-rated tours and it offers a professional guide to learn more about Trakai.

Where to stay in Vilnius?

Here is a list of some of the best hotels in Vilnius for every budget and style. If you don’t like any of these options, I highly recommend that you pick a hotel near Old Town, so you can make the most of your limited time in the Lithuanian capital.

Luxury: Relais & Châteaux Stikliai Hotel

If you want to make your stay in Vilnius special, book Relais & Châteaux Stikliai Hotel. This 5-star hotel in Vilnius is housed in a historic building with Baroque and Gothic features and is located in the heart of the Lithuanian capital. The hotel boasts a sauna, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

Mid-range: Courtyard by Marriott Vilnius City Center

If you are looking for quality accommodation without squandering your finances, make sure you check the Courtyard by Marriott Vilnius City Center. Its prime location and modern & stylish rooms are perfect for exploring Vilnius in style. The rich breakfast is also worth mentioning.

Affordable: Domus Maria

Domus Maria is definitely the best budget choice to stay in Vilnius. It is located in a former monastery in the Old Town and it’s perfect to visit Vilnius city on foot. The rooms are simple but cozy and welcoming and the value for the money is simply unbeatable.

More things that you should know before visiting the Baltics

What language do they speak in the baltics.

The Baltic countries each have their own distinct languages.

The official language of Estonia is Estonian, which belongs to the Finno-Ugric branch of the Uralic language family and it is closely related to Finnish. The official language of Latvia is Latvian, a Baltic language that is part of the Indo-European language family. Lithuanian is the official language of Lithuania. It is a Baltic language and one of the oldest languages in the Indo-European language family that is still spoken.

As a Latvian, I can say that all these languages are very different and unfortunately, we are not able to understand each other. There are some similarities between Latvian and Lithuanian, but nothing remotely close to having an actual conversation.

As a foreigner visiting the Baltics, you will notice that the older generation speaks fluent Russian and the younger generation can communicate pretty well in English. I am sure you won’t have any problems with the language during your trip, but I recommend you learn some basic phrases and surprise the locals.

What is the local food in the Baltics?

The culinary scene in the Baltic countries is a delightful fusion of traditional flavors, influenced by the region’s history, climate, and agricultural practices. Each country has its unique dishes and culinary traditions, however, you will notice a lot of similarities.

One notable dish of Estonian cuisine is “Mulgipuder”. It is a dish of mashed potatoes and groats and is a hearty staple, often served with bacon. Fish, particularly herring, plays a significant role, and “kiluvoileib,” an open-faced sandwich with smoked or marinated herring, is a popular choice.

Vana Tallinn is the most famous local drink and a great souvenir to bring home.

While in Latvia you should try “grey peas with bacon”, which is a traditional Latvian dish. “Latvian rye bread” is a staple, and garlic bread can be found in every local restaurant. But layered rye bread is a popular dessert that you will need to try.

Sklandrausis is a vegetable pie (or tart) made from rye pastry that is filled with a mixture of carrots and potatoes and eaten cold. Latvia’s proximity to the Baltic Sea influences its seafood offerings, with smoked fish, especially sprats, being a common delicacy.

And just like Vana Tallinn, Riga Black Balsam is a must-try when visiting Latvia.

Lithuanian national dish is “Cepelinai” – large potato dumplings stuffed with meat, curd, or mushrooms. “Kugelis,” a potato pudding baked with bacon, is a beloved comfort food. “Šaltibarščiai,” a cold beet soup, is a refreshing and vibrant option, especially during the warmer months.

RELATED : Where to Eat in Riga Like a Local? 10 Local Restaurants in Riga, Latvia

What is the local currency in the Baltics?

While every Baltic country used to have its own currency, nowadays, it is part of the Eurozone and the local currency in the Baltics is Euro.

Further reading for 10-day Baltic itinerary

Photography Guide: 15 Best Photo Spots in Tallinn, Estonia

20 Best Photo Spots in Riga, Latvia + Photography Tips From a Local

10 Best Day Trips from Riga, Latvia (Top Guided Tours Included!)

Plan your trip to Estonia:

• 10 Best Day Trips from Tallinn, Estonia + Top Rated Tours
• Complete Tallinn Itinerary: How to Spend 2 days in Tallinn
• How to Plan a Day Trip to Helsinki from Tallinn via Ferry
• 40 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Tallinn, Estonia

Get ready to explore Latvia:

• 100 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Riga, Latvia
• Riga Art Nouveau Guide: Where to Find Art Nouveau in Riga?
• 10 Amazing Coffee Shops and Best Cafes in Riga
• How to Spend 3 days in Riga + Riga Itinerary and Tips From a Local
• Where to Eat in Riga Like a Local? 10 Local Restaurants in Riga, Latvia
• Weekend in Riga: Perfect 2 Day Riga Itinerary and Tips From a Local
• Why You Should Visit Latvia in Autumn?

Or read more about: Riga | Latvia | Tallinn | Estonia | Baltics

Other useful tips for visiting the Baltics

🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda 💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide and Viator have it all 🚗 Considering renting a car? Use Rentalcars ✈️ Looking for the best flight deals? Check WayAway 🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo

In conclusion… 

This is the end up the ultimate guide to seeing the Baltic in 10 days and I am sure that you have a great vision of how to plan your trip to the Baltic countries. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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Home » Travel Guides » Latvia » 25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia)

25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia)

The capital of Latvia is the largest city in the three Baltic states and is home to one third of Latvia’s total population.

There’s a youthful vitality to Riga that shines through in its thumping nightlife, trendy dining spots and thriving alternative scene.

Riga has an absorbing history to uncover, as a Medieval Hanseatic League member, and a city that has lived under Swedish, Polish, Russian Empire, Soviet and Nazi rule.

The old centre, Vecrīga, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with labyrinthine streets, Medieval churches and guild halls.

And when Riga outgrew its Medieval walls at the turn of the 20th century there was a spectacular burst of creativity that left the city with more than 800 Art Nouveau buildings, more than any other city in the world.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Riga :

The old centre of Riga on the right bank of the Daugava River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On these scurrying cobblestone streets and sociable squares are Riga’s oldest houses and churches.

Vecrīga is stacked with restaurants, nightspots, art galleries and museums.

At a cafe you have to order the dessert named after Vecrīga , made from choux pastry filled with curd and vanilla cream and dusted with icing sugar.

Rozena iela is such a narrow street that you can touch both sides as you walk, while the venerable Skārņu Street has an arts and crafts market where you can get a tasteful souvenir.

The Great and Small Guild Halls hark back to when Riga was a thriving Hanseatic City, trading across the Baltic and Northwest Europe.

Vecrīga lost a third of its historic monuments in the Second World War, but many were rebuilt after Independence in 1990.

2. Art Nouveau Architecture

Riga is an Art Nouveau wonderland, with more than 800 buildings, a third of the city’s stock, dating from the prime years of the movement at the start of the 20th century.

This is the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture, easy to identify for its curved doorways and windows, abundant floral reliefs, female sculptures, whimsical gargoyles or Romantic nationalist imagery.

The reason for this proliferation of Art Nouveau is that Riga had a financial boom and needed fashionable homes for a growing bourgeoisie when the movement was flourishing.

So most of these residences lie in the newer “Centrs” district, to the north and east of Vecrīga, beyond the former walls.

We have a few examples on this list, but one of the masterpieces is at 10a and 10b on Elizabetes street, by “Riga’s Gaudí”, Mikhail Eisenstein.

3. Town Hall Square

Standing on Riga’s Town Hall Square and gazing at the Town Hall and House of the Blackheads, it’s mind-boggling to think that these monuments are little more than 20 years old.

The reconstruction is seamless, and the plaza has a grandeur fit for a capital.

Sticking out like a sore thumb next to the House of the Blackheads is a dark and squat 1970s Soviet building that until recently contained the Occupation Museum.

The Roland Statue, depicting a mythological knight, is a signature of historic German towns, symbolising the city’s Medieval privileges.

Also keep your eyes peeled for a modest stone marker in the ground, recording the location for what is believed to be the world’s first decorated Christmas tree, erected by the Brotherhood of Blackheads in 1510.

4. House of the Blackheads

The pièce de résistance on Town Hall Square is undoubtedly the magnificent House of the Blackheads, first built for an association of unmarried merchants and ship-owners in the 1330s.

This exuberantly adorned brick building was a nexus point for business and trade in Riga during the Hanseatic years.

And as they were bachelors, the Blackheads were known for bringing life to Riga society, organising parties and celebrations.

The building was modified in the 16th and 19th centuries, before being wrecked during a German bombing raid in 1941. The reconstruction didn’t take place until after the Soviet period, and was finished in 1999. You can go in from Tuesday to Sunday to learn about the Blackheads and the history of the building.

The vaults in the basement are original and date from the 14th century, while the stupendous Celebration Hall and the collection of antique silver are must-sees.

5. Albert Street

If you have limited time to hunt down Riga’s Art Nouveau marvels there are many clustered together on Albert Street, which is like an outdoor gallery for architecture.

One of the many surprising things about Albert Street is just how quickly these buildings went up.

The artery took on its inimitable appearance within just seven years, from 1901 to 1908, and eight of the buildings are listed as Latvian state monuments.

Much of the street is the work of Russian architect Mikhail Eisenstein, with special mention for Konstantīns Pēkšēns and his protégé Eižens Laube.

The must-sees are the listed monuments at 2, 2a, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12 and 13. Take as long as you can to appreciate the reliefs and sculptures on the facades, bearing the Romantic Nationalist motifs and mythological figures that were a hallmark of Art Nouveau.

6. Three Brothers

At 17, 19 and 21 Mazā Pils Street stand the oldest complex of houses in Riga, dating from the 15th century.

The oldest facade is no. 17, which has a mix of Gothic and Renaissance in its crow-stepped gable and the pointed arch on its doorway.

Painted pale yellow, No. 19 dates to the middle of the 17th century and blends Renaissance with Dutch Mannerist design.

The distinguished Classical portal here is newer and was built in 1746. This building houses the Latvian Architecture Museum if you’re curious.

Lastly, the slender no. 21 is a Baroque dwelling from the end of the 17th century, with a flowing curved gable.

7. Freedom Monument

East of Vecrīga this solemn landmark remembers the soldiers killed fighting Soviet forces during the Latvian War of Independence (1918-20). Standing 42 metres high, the Freedom Monument (1935) is built from red granite and travertine, and crested by a copper sculpture of Liberty holding three golden stars.

This monument remains the centrepiece for official remembrance ceremonies in the city.

If you approach the base you’ll find 13 groups of reliefs recording national heroes, allegories, images from Latvian culture and pivotal moments in the nation’s history like the Russian Revolution of 1905 and the War of Independence.

8. Bastejkalna Parks

The park around the Freedom Monument reaches across both sides of the Pilsētas Kanāls (canal), which meanders along the course of Riga’s old moat.

Until 1856 this elevated area was the site of Riga’s eastern fortifications, and its name translates to “Bastion Hill”. Over the course of the 19th century a dignified boulevard, gaslights, sculptures, formal flowerbeds and a manmade waterfall were laid out on the hill, while cute wrought iron bridges traversed the canal.

The resplendent buildings neighbouring the park, like the Latvian National Opera and University of Latvia, all add to the sense of ceremony.

Watch the sun go down from the hill and amble beside the canal to see the ducks, swans and beavers.

9. Riga Central Market

Included in Riga’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Riga Central Market is one of the largest and most visited markets in Eastern Europe.

Up to 100,000 shoppers enter its pavilions every day.

The building is a wonder in its own right, constructed in the second half of the 1920s and repurposing German zeppelin hangars into pavilions.

These titanic buildings are right on the Daugava, just south of Vecrīga, and each one has its own speciality, be it gastronomic specialities, fish, meat, dairy or vegetables.

There are also stalls to browse outside, while the former warehouses (Spikeri), have been turned into a trendy arts and entertainment zone.

Some goodies that may take you out of your comfort zone are smoked eels, Rupjmaizes kārtojums (a layered dessert made from rye bread) and hemp paste.

10. Riga Cathedral

An enduring symbol for Riga, the “Dome Cathedral” is the seat of the Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia.

The building has been altered many times since it was first built by the right bank of the Daugava River at the start of the 13th century.

Like all of the churches in Vecrīga the cathedral has a cockerel atop its spire, weighting 86 kg and functioning as a weather vane.

There’s an older version on show in the cathedral’s delightful Romanesque cloister, one of the oldest parts of the building.

In the 16th century the Dome Pipe Organ inside was the largest in the world, but was destroyed in a fire in 1547. The current instrument has a marvellous carved wooden case and was installed by the Walcker Orgelbau company at the start of the 1880s with 6718 pipes.

11. Swedish Gate

In Medieval times Riga was protected by a mighty wall with 20 towers and a 90-metre-wide moat that would later be turned into the Pilsētas Kanāls.

Of the eight gates that used to control entry to the city the sole survivor is the Swedish Gate.

The reason this fragment has lasted to the 21st century is that it was turned into an apartment after becoming obsolete when the city’s bastions were built in the 17th century.

Its tenant was the city executioner, who according to tradition would lay a red rose on the window sill on the morning of an execution.

The stretch of wall along Torņa Street was restored during the Soviet occupation.

12. St Peter’s Church

The 123-metre tower of this Lutheran church is an integral part of Vecrīga’s silhouette.

St Peter’s Church was begun at the start of the 13th century, but had two more phases of construction in the 15th and 17th centuries, leaving it with a melange of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.

There isn’t much remaining of the earliest building, but you can find traces in the outer nave and on a few of the pillars.

Safe to say that the church’s tower had a difficult past: The initial 15th-century Gothic tower collapsed in 1660. Its replacement from 1690 was then brought down by lightning in 1721. And later the tower burnt down in the Second World War to be renovated in the 1960s.

During the last reconstruction an elevator was installed, taking you up to the second gallery at a height of 72 metres for the best view of Vecrīga.

13. Latvian National Opera and Ballet

Best experienced when the autditorium fills up for evening performances, the Latvian National Opera and Ballet is a Neoclassical theatre from 1863. The venue is older than the Latvian National Opera, which was founded as in situation in 1912 and had to wait until after the First World War to give its first performance, which was Wagner’s Flying Dutchman in 1919. The resplendent interiors were produced by the studio of August Volz, who also designed the Roland Statue and allegorical sculptures on the facade of the House of the Blackheads.

Culture-lovers can’t turn down a night of Faust, Die Fledermaus or Madame Butterfly, so check the listings when you’re in town and join the impeccably dressed throng.

A neat piece of trivia is that Wagner was the music director of the Deutsches Theater, the forerunner to the National Opera, for a couple of years in the late 1830s.

14. Art Nouveau Museum

Konstantīns Pēkšēns, one of the stars of Riga’s Art Nouveau movement, designed and lived in this building on Albert Street at the turn of the 20th century.

In 2009 his apartment’s interior was returned to its 1903 layout and decoration.

On the building’s facade look for the quirky motifs inspired by local wildlife, like pine cones, needles and squirrels.

The spiral stairway is a delight, with enthralling ceiling paintings composed by Latvia’s eminent painter of the day, Janis Rozentāls.

In the apartment you can step through the plush drawing room, decorated with floral patterns, and the dining room, lined with wooden panels.

There’s masterful furniture with flowing lines, dainty stained glass windows and beautiful tile-work, best seen on the kitchen floor.

15. Riga Motor Museum

The state-owned Riga Motor Museum reopened for business in 2016 after a three-year makeover.

If you have a thing for classic cars or are intrigued by Soviet artefact the museum is sure to hold your attention for an hour or two.

From the Soviet occupation you can see models by Volga, Moskvich and Zigouli, as well as a ZIS-115 armoured car designed for Josef Stalin, and a Lincoln Continental 53A Town Car gifted to Leonid Brezhnev by Nixon in the early 70s.

Look out for the replica of the Auto Union Racing Car Type D, built by the company that would later evolve into Audi.

Also from the West you can admire a Jaguar Mk. 2, a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith and a Mercedes-Benz 220 SE, all in tip-top condition.

16. Cat House

A building to be seen from the outside while you navigate Vecrīga, the Cat House is a Medieval-inspired Art Nouveau house on Meistaru Street.

It was drawn up by the architect Friedrich Scheffel for a wealthy Latvian merchant, and is named for the copper cats that stand on the corner turrets.

The story goes that these cats were designed with their backsides turned towards Riga’s House of the Great Guild because of a grudge held by the Latvian owner for not being allowed in the mostly German Great Guild.

After a court case cats were turned back the right way and the owner was admitted to the guild.

17. Vērmanes Garden

East of the Bastejkalna Parks and fronting the main building for the University of Latvia, the Vērmanes Garden is the second public garden in Riga.

It takes its name from Anna Gertrud Wöhrmann, a Prussian widow who contributed the land and funds for the park in the 1810s.

Previously this part of the city had been torched by the city in preparation for an attack by Napoleon that never came.

One of a few solemn monuments in the park is an obelisk in her honour, and this is accompanied by an elegant fountain representing the four seasons and a set of stone lions.

The park has formal gardens and exotic trees, playground for little ones, season cafes, people playing chess and an outdoor stage for music and dance performances in summer.

18. Nativity of Christ Cathedral

The cathedral for Riga’s Orthodox community is a stirring neo-Byzantine building begun in 1876 when Latvia was part of the Russian Empire.

You can’t miss that ostentatious golden central dome.

Tsar Alexander II donated the cathedral 12 bells, which required a separate belfry to be constructed.

These bells were melted down at the start of the 1960s under Soviet occupation when the cathedral became the Republic House of Knowledge.

At that time the dome was used as a planetarium, while the crucifixes were pulled down and invaluable iconostasis was destroyed.

Restoration work started at the end of the 1990s and continues today, helping the iconostasis and interior regain their previous splendour.

19. Museum of the Occupation

When this post was written the Museum of the Occupation, one of Riga’s top cultural attractions, was temporarily relocated to the former US Embassy building on Raiņa Bulvāris.

Drawing on a huge audiovisual archive and reserve of artefacts, the museum documents the often grim period from 1940-1991, when Latvia came under the yoke of the USSR, then the Nazis in the Second World War and then the USSR once more.

There are poignant but informative accounts of the hardships of Siberian gulags, purges of Latvian Nationalists after the Second World War and the deportation and murder of Jews in the Holocaust.

On Brīvības Street the sister attraction is devoted to the history of KGB Operations in Latvia, in a former KGB building with prison cells intact.

20. Latvian National Museum of Art

For an edifying introduction to 19th and 20th-century Latvian art head for the newly refurbished Latvian National Art Museum.

This striking Historicist hall was the work of the Baltic German architect Wilhelm Neumann and completed in 1905. At the time it was the first purpose-built museum venue in all of the Baltic States.

The museum was closed for most of this decade, becoming cultural touchstone for Riga since it reopened.

On two floors you can acquaint yourself with the stars of Latvian art, like the Expressionist Johans Valters, Art Nouveau artist Janis Rozentāls and the landscape painter Janis Rozentāls.

There are temporary exhibitions in the basement and you can go up to the roof terrace to survey the city.

21. Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

The Dome Cathedral chapter house is the venue for Latvia’s oldest museum.

The collection was started in the mid-18th century by the Riga doctor Nikolaus von Himsel.

After he passed away at a young age, his possessions were given to the city by his mother in 1773, and found a permanent home in the chapter house.

This monument’s architecture goes back to the 13th-century in the groin-vaulted gallery, while the regal Column Hall dates to 1778. The collection has been enriched down the years, and recalls each stage of Riga’s lifespan, like its time as a Hanseatic port in Middle Ages and the Polish and Swedish occupations of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Among the many fascinating objects are historic maps, navigational instruments, clothing, all kinds of everyday utensils, porcelain silver and antique engravings depicting the city.

22. Ethnographic Open Air Museum

This skansen-style museum is on the east bank of Lake Jugla, 30 minutes by car from the city centre.

It’s an attraction not to be missed if you want to learn more about Latvian culture.

Here, 118 traditional buildings from the four Latvian provinces have been transported to this site and carefully rebuilt.

The oldest dates back to the 1600s and the most recent is from the 1930s.

The museum is the only place in the country where you can contrast the cultural differences between the provinces of Kurzeme, Latgale, Vidzeme and Zemgale.

In these buildings you’ll get to know old-time methods of self-care at saunas, see example of traditional weaving, peruse an arsenal of tools for historic trades, make your own pottery, forge coins, taste classic Latvian cuisine and find out about Latvian seasonal celebrations.

Established back in 1824, the museum is in 87 hectares of pine forest and has cross-country ski trails in winter.

23. Town Musicians of Bremen

A fun diversion on Skārņu Street is the sculpture for the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the “Town Musicians of Bremen”. The story is about four ageing domestic animals, a donkey, dog, cat and cockerel, who fear that they’re about to be put down, so run away to Bremen to become musicians.

They never make it that far though, as on the way these cheeky critters scam a band of robbers and take over their house.

The monument in Riga, gifted by Bremen in 1990, is also believed to carry political undertones as a nod to Gorbachev’s Perestroika.

It’s supposed to be good luck to touch each animal’s face in sequence, and you can see where the bronze has been buffed up by millions of hands over the last 28 years.

24. Jūrmala

In summer you can catch a suburban train from Riga Central Station to the seaside resort of Jūrmala.

Services depart every 30 minutes on the Riga-Tukums line and take 30 minutes or so to reach their destination.

You’ll know why you made the trip when you arrive.

Jūrmala’s beach is 33 kilometres long and has pristine white quartzite sand, occasionally fronted by wooden Art Nouveau buildings.

Six of the bathing areas at Jūrmala are awarded the Blue Flag each year, and traced by mixed birch and pine forest.

It’s worth coming down outside the summer season, as you can hunt for pieces of amber washed up on the beach in spring and autumn.

Jūrmala was a getaway of choice for the Communist elite in the mid-20th century, and both Nikita Khrushchev and Leonid Brezhnev were regulars.

25. Riga Black Balsam

If there’s a souvenir that is Latvian through and through, it’s Black Balsam, a bitter but slightly sweet liqueur made in oak barrels.

Two million bottles are produced every year and exported to 30 countries.

The drink was formulated back in 1752 by the pharmacist Abraham Kunze, as a kind of restorative tonic.

A total of 24 berries, roots, herbs, flowers and essential oils go into each ceramic bottle of Black Balsam, and if you want to try it there’s a crazy amount of concoctions available.

Most of the time you’ll see it in cocktails, or as a mixer with vodka, schnapps or akvavit.

But people will also drink Black Balsam with coffee, tea, cold soft drinks, and even use it as a topping for ice cream.

25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia):

• Art Nouveau Architecture
• Town Hall Square
• House of the Blackheads
• Albert Street
• Three Brothers
• Freedom Monument
• Bastejkalna Parks
• Riga Central Market
• Riga Cathedral
• Swedish Gate
• St Peter's Church
• Latvian National Opera and Ballet
• Art Nouveau Museum
• Riga Motor Museum
• Vērmanes Garden
• Nativity of Christ Cathedral
• Museum of the Occupation
• Latvian National Museum of Art
• Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation
• Ethnographic Open Air Museum
• Town Musicians of Bremen
• Riga Black Balsam

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
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Riga travel guide — the fullest latvia travel guide & riga guide for first-timers.

If you are looking for a new and unique, lesser-known destination in Europe, Latvia is probably an ideal destination for you. Latvia – a destination that is not very famous, but if you have come here, visitors definitely cannot help but admire its beauty. Adorned with the valley pine of Gauja or the wonders bearing bold European dome architecture style, Latvia appears in a charming and brilliant way. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Latvia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Latvia travel blog (Latvia blog, Riga blog, Riga travel blog) with the fullest Latvia travel guide (Latvia guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Guide from Riga to Gauja National park — The fullest Gauja guide & what to do in Sigulda Latvia?

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to spend 5 days in Coron?

Arashiyama travel blog — the fullest arashiyama travel guide with top things to do in arashiyama, explore fenqihu old street — what to do in fenqihu in a day trip, where to go in kunming — 15+ top kunming attractions & best places to visit in kunming.

Latvia, a name is still quite unfamiliar to those who are passionate about European tourism. However, in my opinion, not because few people know about it that make this place is not worth exploring at all. If I have to vote on a place that I’ve been to and want to come back again, surely the Latvian capital Riga will never be out of this list. In 2018 Riga was also voted as the top 5 most attractive destinations in Europe.

Latvia travel guide: Overview of Latvia

Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia. Latvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia and Belarus to the east and the Baltic Sea to the west. Ethnic groups are mainly Latvian (59%) and Russian (28.3%), in addition to other ethnic minorities. Latvia’s area is about 65,000 square kilometers but the population is only nearly 2.7 million people (2021).

• The Latvian capital: Riga
• Member of the European Union since 2004
• Latvian population: about 2.7 million people
• Language: Latvian, English (administrative), Russian

The capital of Latvia is Riga and this city has also been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Riga is also the largest city among cities in the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania). Latvia is a country with a long history in Europe. Historically, the country was colonized by many neighboring countries.

On November 18, 1918, the republic of Latvia was officially established. In 1940, Latvia was annexed to the Soviet Union, then became a socialist country called the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, Latvia became an independent country again. Therefore, it is not difficult to realize, the architectures were built in Riga are extremely majestic and beautiful. People often compare Riga to a city of Art Nouveau – an art and architecture school from the early 19th century that stands out with its meticulous decoration and intricate and flexible motifs. These are also special architectural features only in Riga.

In my personal opinion, the architecture here is as beautiful as in cities centers of the Netherlands or Russia and even more beautiful than the Nordic countries. Therefore, many newspapers are now assessing that Riga’s tourism is being “underrated” compared to other European countries.

Latvia travel blog: When to visit?

Latvia has a pleasant climate, so it is extremely suitable for sightseeing, relaxing and leisure travel. The best time to travel to Latvia is in spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October). During this time, the weather is warm, right in the fruit harvesting season, so the scenery even more charming. If you want to have a special experience, you can also come here around February when the temperature is very low to have fun with snow.

In addition, January and February are the coldest months of the year. November, December days are usually short and often rain in late afternoon.

Riga travel guide: Where to stay?

The cost of living in Latvia is quite cheap, the hotel price is about €20-30/night, so you will have a room right in the center if you book early.

During my trip in Riga, I stayed at the Airbnb of a Latvian man’s house. His house located right in the center, so it is quite convenient. The room rate is €23 and you are free to use its kitchen. In general, life in Latvia as well as the climate here is quite pleasant, so I was so satisfied with this trip. In addition, you can refer to some of the following hotels:

• Green Cat Rooms : The hotel is located in the heart of Riga with modern and comfortable equipment. Price €23/2 people.
• Apartment Harmony ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) : The hotel is located in the center of Riga for €24/2 people including breakfast.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Neiburgs Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Monika Centrum Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check-out top rated and best places to stay in Riga on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Latvia travel guide: Gettting to Latvia

There are no connecting flights to Riga, but you can go from Helsinki, take a ferry to Tallinn and continue take a bus to Riga. If you plan to visit Baltic states, you can make a trip to visit Tallinn (Estonia) – Riga (Latvia) – Vilnius (Lithuania).

Other ways to get to Latvia you can refer to here .

Riga travel guide: Getting around Riga

If you only visit famous places right in the center of Riga, you do not need to buy tickets for transportation, but if necessary, you can refer to some of the following options:

Hop on – hop off bus tickets: Adult: €17 / Child (11-15 years old): €10

The above fare for 2 days, and note that this is an online ticket price, if you buy it directly on bus, it will be more expensive (€20). Tickets can be used to go 4 different lines and passing many famous attractions.

Public transport:

• Take bus 22 from the airport – city center and vice versa (30 minutes)
• Single ticket price: €1.15 when buy online or via ticket vending machines, ticket counters (tickets purchased directly on the bus: €2)
• One-day ticket: €5
• 3-day ticket: €10

Riga travel blog: Where to go?

Old town of riga.

When it comes to Riga, perhaps it can’t help but to mention its old town. This district was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1997. Although the war has caused a lot of damage to the works in the Latvian capital Riga, the remaining works, buildings, structures are still well preserved to this day.

Riga’s Old Town is a maze of enchanting cobblestone streets and brightly colored buildings dating back to the 13th century. The main highlights here are the St. Peter’s Church, House of the Black Heads, and the Three Brothers. These are definitely places you should not miss when traveling to Riga.

St. Peter’s Church

The Church of St. Peter is the highest structure in Riga, with a 123.5 meter towering tower rising straight into the Old Town sky. You can take the elevator to the top of this tower for a panoramic view of the city. Besides worship services, this 13th-century Art Nouveau building also hosts art exhibitions, festivals and concerts.

Church of St. Peter is one of the oldest medieval monuments in the Baltic States. Since its construction, this tower has been affected by lightning, wind storms and fire and has been rebuilt many times.

Located next to the gentle Daugava River, Saint Peter’s Church is the most representative of the quintessence of Art Nouveau architecture school. Using curving curves with high vaulted doorways and elaborate decorations, St. Peter’s Church is the most beautiful and impressive church in the Baltic region.

Address: Reformācijas Laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 10AM–7PM/Monday: Closed Architectural style: Gothic architecture Opened: 1746

House of the Blackheads

The House of the Blackheads was built in 1334 and was the meeting venue of Riga’s various public organizations. It was completely destroyed during the 2nd world war and was rebuilt in 1999. This building can be seen as the symbol of Latvia tourism that you often see on its postcards.

This magnificent Blackheads building is like a crown adorning the Old Town square in Riga. The building’s Dutch Renaissance exterior is a tourist attraction. This building was built in the 14th century, was destroyed during the war and rebuilt in 1999.

Address: Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12–5PM Admission: €6

Three Brothers

A building complex of three houses, located in the Latvian capital Riga. This is considered the oldest residence in Riga. The homes are located at 17, 19 and 21 Maza Pils Street, and each represents different periods of housing development of the city.

Address: Mazā Pils iela 17, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Christ’s Nativity Church is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Baltic region. The church was built in 1876, when Latvia was part of the Russian Empire. At that time, this church was one of the most laborious and expensive buildings ever built in Riga. In the 1960s, the Soviets converted the cathedral’s use into an observatory and cafe, destroying the murals on the ceiling. The building returned to its original role as a church when Latvia gained independence from Russia.

I consider this a very worthwhile place to go when traveling to Riga, Latvia because besides the church’s architecture, its location is right on the boulevard overlooking the trees that are trimmed like square-shaped, evenly and eye-catching. Besides, this church is located right in the campus of an extremely large park. You definitely won’t regret coming to this place.

Address: Brīvības bulvāris 23, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7AM–6:30PM Architectural style: Byzantine Revival architecture Opened: 1876 Admission: free

Bastejkalna Park

In addition to the outstanding places above with countless small places to visit in Latvia, you can visit some other places such as Bastejkalna Park or Riga central market.

Bastejkalna Park is also an interesting place that you should stop when traveling in Latvia. This is very large park located in the bustling center of Riga, Latvian park possesses extremely rich natural scenes. Inside the park are large lakes. To experience the wonderful and interesting things here, you can walk or cycle around the park. You will sure to have an enjoyable picnic here.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Open 24 hours

Riga Central Market

The Central Market is located next to Riga Bus Station and Central Railway Station, near the Old Town and is full of goods and food. You can stop by to know the price of food and experience the real market culture here.

Address: Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7:30AM–6PM

Freedom Monument

Freedom Monument is a memorial to the soldiers who participated in the Latvian war for independence. The monument consists of a large column, carved statues around it, at the top of the column is a bronze statue of the Statue of Liberty, holding 3 stars. This monument is a symbol of Latvia’s freedom, independence and sovereignty.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Opened: November 18, 1935 Height: 42 m

Riga Castle

Riga Castle, located on the banks of the Daugava River, is a must-see when visiting the Latvian capital. It was built in 1330. After several destructions, the castle was continuously restored between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, it is used as a museum and the presidential residence.

Address: Pils laukums 3, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Architectural style: Classical architecture Function: Castle Opened: 1515

In addition, if you still have time, you can go to the other side of the city’s river where many Russians live is called Pardaugava. This area also has a number of attractions such as flea market, museum, Holy Trinity Church of Pārdaugava, park… If you take a hop on hop off bus, the bus will take you to this area too.

Jurmala Beach

And the last place to consider to come when traveling to Latvia is Jurmala Beach, a 30-minute train ride from the center. If you still have time, you should consider to go, this beach has the Blatic style, so it’s not as excellent as our Vietnamese beaches.

Cēsis Old Town

Cesis is one of Latvia’s oldest towns with poetic cobblestone streets, wooden buildings and impressive castles. With gardens, lakes, flowers and small paths, or moss-covered rocks… Cesis appears as beautiful as a watercolor painting. When you visit Cesis, you can visit the historic museum, gallery and oldest brewery in the region.

Gutmanis Cave

Gutmanis is the deepest cave in the Baltic region at a depth of 19m, 10-12m wide. This is also a favorite destination of tourists when coming to this Baltic country. There are many legends about the formation of this cave, one of which is the story of a chief’s wife, who was locked here because of infidelity, her tears created Gutmanis cave.

Turaida castle

One of the most beautiful places in Latvia is Turai Castle. This castle was built during the time of the Roman pope. However it was destroyed in 1776. But, 50 years later it was restored to its original form. Visiting this castle, visitors will see the red brick background, it exudes a rare ancient look. The wild scenery around the castle makes you feel like you are lost in the magical fairy world.

Address: Turaidas iela 10, Sigulda, Siguldas pilsēta, LV-2150, Latvia Hours: 10AM–6PM

Venta Rapid Waterfall

With an impressive width (249m), Venta is currently the widest waterfall in Europe, although the slope is only about 2m. The best time to see this waterfall is in spring. When the water overflows, the waterfall also turns and shoots white foam.

Riga travel guide: What to eat?

Latvian cuisine is typical of European cuisine. It brings the subtle and sophisticated. In addition to its delicious and attractive taste, it is also decorated very sophisticatedly and eye-catching. In particular, the dishes in Latvia are not too expensive, suitable for the budget of most tourists.

Typical Latvian cuisine consists of agricultural products, where meat is present in almost every main course of a meal. Fish is commonly consumed as Latvia is located on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. Latvian cuisine changes with the seasons, each time of the year has its own unique foods and flavors. Latvian food is generally quite fatty and uses little seasoning.

Here, you can try to enjoy Sklandrausis pie , a traditional vegetable pastry made from carrots and potatoes, sprinkled with cinnamon powder and served with milk; dessert Maizes zupa (bread soup) made with rye bread, whipped cream and fruit; or sipping a glass of Riga Black Balsam flavored with a variety of herbs.

Coming here, you can rest assured that you can eat comfortably without having to worry about costs. A meal in restaurants costs only €4-5. Supermarkets are of course cheap. In general, the price is cheaper than all the countries I have been to in Europe (on par with Lithuania).

If you want Asian food, come here, I think it’s delicious and the price is also quite good: Hum Asian Kitchen : (Address: etrūdes iela 22, Riga 1011, Latvia+371 66 077 077).

If you want to try an authentic Latvian restaurant, you can visit this place: Domini Canes (Address: Skarnu street 18/20 | Riga Old Town, Riga 1050, Latvia). This restaurant is located in the old town near St. Peter church.

Onother good restaurant also located in the Old Town is Golden coffee (Address: Kungu iela 7/9, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia/Hours: 9AM–11PM).

In short, traveling to Riga is the cheapest cost among other European cities!

Riga travel guide: Shopping

In Latvia there are many places to shop with interesting gifts for yourself or as souvenirs for loved ones such as amber rings, silver jewelry, smoked ceramics, very beautiful decorated fingerless gloves or unique handicrafts. These items are sold everywhere from traditional markets to commercial centers, from shops to roadside stalls.

Riga travel blog: Trip costs

Riga has a very good cost of living, not as expensive as many Western and Nordic countries. A bottle of soft drink costs 80 cents, while in Finland it is €2.5 and in France €2.0.

One night hostel from €10 – €15. Hotels from €20. I have stayed at a 4-star hotel but the price is only €35, this price is even cheaper than mid-range hotels in Vietnam.

Means of transportation you can buy daily ticket for €5 and can use all bus and tram system of the city.

The trip cost per day if staying at hostel is only €35/day/person.

Riga blog: Some notes before you go

• In short, when traveling to Riga, the most worth-visiting place in my opinion is Riga Old Town – where many Art Nouveau buildings and churches and other historical sites are concentrated. There is also an boulevard and Christ’s Nativity church right in the center. The above places can be considered a must see in Riga – the rest of the places I have mentioned, if you still have time, let explore. The itinerary for traveling between attractions is not too difficult. You just need to find your way to the old town and boulevard. Generally pretty easy to find.
• If you have time, go to Lithuania – a neighboring country with the same cost as Latvia but the scenery is also very beautiful.

Riga travel blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Riga you can refer to

• Tallink Silja Cruise between Stockholm and Riga
• Riga Classical Old Town 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Sigulda Hiking Tour: A Day in the Switzerland of Latvia
• From Riga: Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour
• Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk
• Eurail Pass for Latvia (3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 Days)
• Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat
• Riga: Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Riga: 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Latvia: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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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:

7 Things To Do In Jurmala & Kemeri: A Day Trip from Riga

2 to 3 Days in Vilnius Itinerary: Things To Do in Lithuania’s Capital

The Perfect Baltics Itinerary: Explore Estonia, Latvia, & Lithuania

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 🙂

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