The Baltic Trio: National Parks and Cultural Gems
Trip programme:
Day 1: Riga
Arrive in Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and UNESCO-listed Old Town. Pick-up the rental car at the airport and check-in to the hotel. Take some time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. Riga offers a rich blend of history, from medieval streets to modern cultural centers, making it a fascinating destination for any traveler. Overnight stay in Riga.
Day 2: Riga
After breakfast, spend the day discovering Riga independently. The city is home to historical landmarks like the Riga Cathedral, one of the largest and oldest in the Baltics, and the House of the Blackheads, an iconic symbol of the city’s medieval guilds. Riga is also famous for its Art Nouveau district, with some of the finest examples of this architectural style in Europe. Overnight stay in Riga.
Day 3: Riga – Sooma National Park – Pärnu
Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Pick up your rental car at the rental agency’s office (city center). Drive to Sooma National Park, famous for its "fifth season" where the bogs flood, creating unique landscapes. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering peaceful walks through its pristine wetlands. Afterward, continue to Pärnu, Estonia’s summer capital, known for its sandy beaches, relaxing spas, and vibrant parks. Check-in to the hotel and stay overnight in Pärnu.
Day 4: Pärnu – Saaremaa
After breakfast, check-out, travel from Pärnu to Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island, known for its medieval history and unique architecture. Take the ferry from Virtsu to Muhu Island, home to Koguva Village, a well-preserved 19th-century fishing village. Then, cross the Väinatamm Causeway to Saaremaa and drive to Kuressaare. Check- in to the hotel and stay overnight in Kuressaare.
Day 5: Island of Saaremaa
Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Discover the diverse island of Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island at about 2,670 km². The island captivates nature lovers with its extensive, secluded coastlines, vast forests, and marshes. Highlights of Saaremaa include Kuressaare with its episcopal castle, Angla with its windmills, Karja with St. Catherine’s Church, Kaali with the meteorite crater, the Panga cliff, and much more. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kuressaare.
Day 6: Island of Saaremaa
Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Today, an excursion to the Sõrve Peninsula is on the agenda. This southernmost tip of the island impresses with its spectacular landscape and the famous Sõrve Lighthouse. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding coastline from its observation platform. In the area, you can also visit historical military installations from World War II and enjoy a walk along the rugged coastline, which is especially popular with nature lovers. In the afternoon, return to Kuressaare. Use the remaining time to explore the charming old town or try local specialties in one of the cozy cafés. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kuressaare.
Day 7: Saaremaa – Rummu – Tallinn
Enjoy breakfast and check-out of the hotel before departing Saaremaa for Tallinn. On the way, stop at the Rummu Quarry, a fascinating submerged site once used as a prison and marble mine. The crystal-clear waters and the eerie atmosphere make it a great spot for photography. Arrive in Tallinn, a medieval gem known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, cobblestone streets, and historical landmarks. Check-in to the hotel and stay overnight in Tallinn.
Day 8: Tallinn
After breakfast, spend the day exploring Tallinn, a city that blends medieval charm with modern innovation. Highlights include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Estonian Parliament, and Kadriorg Castle, a stunning Baroque palace surrounded by a beautiful park. Tallinn's Old Town, with its winding streets and medieval architecture, is one of the best-preserved in Europe. Overnight stay in Tallinn.
Day 9: Tallinn – Lahemaa
Start your day with breakfast before checking -out and heading to Lahemaa National Park, known for its rich natural beauty and historic manors. The park offers hiking opportunities through forests and along the coast, with visits to Käsmu village and Palmse Manor, a grand Baltic noble estate. Lahemaa’s diverse ecosystems and serene landscapes make it a peaceful escape from city life. For today’s overnight stay we have chosen something very special for you. You will stay in the majestic former manor house of Vihula, surrounded by beautiful nature. Let the day end in a cosy atmosphere.
Day 10: Lahemaa – Ontika – Valaste – Tartu
After breakfast, head towards Tartu, stopping to admire the Ontika Cliffs, Estonia’s highest coastal cliffs, and the Valaste Waterfall, the tallest in the country. These natural landmarks are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. Arrive in Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city, known for its historic university, lively cultural scene, and youthful energy. Check-in to the hotel and stay overnight in Tartu.
Day 11: Tartu
After breakfast, explore Tartu, a city steeped in academic history and home to the University of Tartu, one of Europe’s oldest universities. Key sights include the Town Hall, St. John’s Church, with its unique terracotta sculptures, and Angel’s Bridge. Tartu is also known for its vibrant student atmosphere and picturesque river views. Overnight stay in Tartu.
Day 12: Tartu – Cēsis
Start your day with breakfast before checking out of the hotel and heading to Cēsis, a medieval town known for its well-preserved castle and charming Old Town. On the way, visit Sangaste, renowned for Sangaste Castle, a 19th-century neo-Gothic manor inspired by English architecture and often referred to as the "Baltic Windsor Castle." Its elegant design and rich history make it a fascinating stop. It's also worth visiting Ungurmuiza, celebrated for its charming Ungurmuiza Manor—an 18th-century wooden baroque estate, unique in Latvia. The manor is set amidst beautiful grounds and offers a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage. Afterward, continue your journey to Cēsis. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and take some time to settle in. Enjoy your evening exploring the quaint streets of Cēsis or relax at the hotel in preparation for the adventures ahead.
Day 13: Gauja National Park
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then set out to explore Gauja National Park, one of Latvia’s most stunning natural reserves. The park is famous for its rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and medieval castles like Turaida and Sigulda, offering a wealth of historical and natural wonders. Sigulda’s walking trails lead to Gūtmaņa Cave, the largest cave in the Baltics, steeped in intriguing local legends. After visiting Sigulda, continue to Ligatne, a charming village known for its historic paper mill and scenic nature trails. Return to Cēsis for an overnight stay after a full day of exploration. Overnight stay in Cesis.
Day 14: Cēsis – Biržai – Vilnius
After breakfast, check-out and travel to Vilnius with a stop in Biržai, where you can visit the Renaissance-style Biržai Castle and the Kirkilų Observation Tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and forests. Afterwards, arrive in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, which is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, medieval Old Town, and rich cultural heritage. Check- in to the hotel and stay overnight in Vilnius.
Day 15: Vilnius
Start your day with breakfast before exploring Vilnius, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s Old Town is filled with historical landmarks such as the Gate of Dawn, St. Peter and Paul’s Church, and Gediminas Hill. Vilnius University is an architectural masterpiece, and the city’s vibrant arts and café culture add to its charm. Overnight stay in Vilnius.
Day 16: Vilnius – Trakai National Park – Kaunas
After breakfast and check-out, travel to Trakai National Park, home to the iconic Trakai Castle, set on an island surrounded by a scenic lake. The castle is a popular symbol of Lithuanian history. Continue to Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, which is known for its interwar architecture and the impressive Pazaislis Monastery. Check-in to the hotel and stay overnight in Kaunas.
Day 17: Kaunas – Zemaitija National Park – Curonian Spit
Enjoy breakfast before setting off to Zemaitija National Park, renowned for its tranquil lakes and lush forests. Take a moment to explore the Cold War Museum, offering a fascinating look into the region's 20th-century history. Continue your journey towards the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its dramatic sand dunes, quaint fishing villages, and pristine natural landscape. Upon arrival in Nida, check in at your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure in this serene seaside town.
Day 18: Curonian Spit
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the unique landscape of the Curonian Spit. Explore the iconic High Dune for breathtaking panoramic views over the Baltic Sea, and visit the Thomas Mann House, a former residence of the famous German writer. Take time to stroll through Nida’s picturesque streets and visit the charming Protestant Church. The tranquil surroundings make this the perfect place to relax and reflect. Spend the night in Nida, taking in the peaceful ambiance of this UNESCO-listed region.
Day 19: Curonian Spit
Enjoy breakfast before hiking through the Nagliai Nature Reserve, a place filled with fascinating dunes and buried villages. Visit Juodkrantė to explore Witches' Hill, which is adorned with carved wooden sculptures depicting Lithuanian fairy tales. The area is also home to one of the largest cormorant colonies in Lithuania, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Return to Nida, stay there overnight.
Day 20: Nida – Pajūrio Regional Park – Palanga – Liepāja
After breakfast, begin your journey with a walk through Pajūrio Regional Park, where you can enjoy stunning views at Dutchman’s Cap Cliff. In Palanga, visit the Amber Museum and stroll along the Palanga Pier. Continue to Liepāja, a port city known for its beautiful beaches, lively cultural scene, and historical significance. Check-in at the hotel in Liepāja and stay there overnight.
Day 21: Liepāja – Kuldīga – Ķemeri National Park – Jūrmala
Start your day with breakfast before visiting Kuldīga, where you can see the Venta Rapid, the widest waterfall in Europe. Continue to Ķemeri National Park, which offers tranquil bog trails and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Finish your day in Jūrmala, a seaside resort town known for its sandy beaches and stunning sunset views. Check-in at the hotel and overnight stay in Jūrmala.
Day 22: Departure
After breakfast, drive to the airport for your departure and return your rental car, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Baltics—a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Price includes:
- 21 nights with breakfast in good 3-star hotels;
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20 days rental car (e.g., VW Polo or similar for 2 people, VW Touran or similar for 4 people) with fully comprehensive insurance without excess:
- Premium protection package; windscreen, headlight and tyre protection, accident insurance;
- Border crossing costs (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania);
- Unlimited kilometres;
- Second driver, registered with the rental company for the entire duration of the trip;
- Parking fees at hotels in Pärnu, Tallinn, Tartu, Vilnius, Liepaja, Jurmala
The price is available upon request.
The final price will be determined as part of a personalized travel offer and depends on the following factors:
- Travel dates
- Flight availability
- Number of participants
- Accommodation location and standard
We would be delighted to provide you with a tailor-made flight package and a detailed travel itinerary. Contact us with your preferences and requirements—our team will be happy to bring your travel plans to life!