tourism in baltic states

Best Of The Baltics: 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltics

Compared to other destinations in Europe, the Baltics are relative newcomers to tourism. However, you’ll find an abundance of things to do in the Baltics making them a great destination for anyone interested in culture, historical cities and stunning landscapes. 

The 3 Baltic countries Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia were under Soviet rule until 1991, which meant they were pretty much off limits to the outside world. That hasn’t held them back with the Baltic tourism industry seeing a huge influx in visitors wanting to explore this once restricted region. 

This article delves into the best of the Baltics and covers a multitude of bucket list worthy things to see in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. 

With their outstandingly well preserved UNESCO listed mediaeval historical centres, rolling and untouched landscapes dotted with fairy-tale castles and captivating history, you can see why visiting the Baltics is on the up, and for good reason!

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Table of Contents

Best of the Baltics – Overview

This best of Baltics travel guide is divided into sections. The first part gives a list of the 3 top things to see in the Baltic nations as well as gives some useful information to read before you visit. 

The second section goes into the best things to see in each of the Baltic with insider information about what to expect, getting there, and the location.

Finally, there’s an FAQ section which answers any other questions you might have about planning your trip to the Baltics.

Top 3 Things To Do In The Baltics – By Country

If you’re planning your Baltic itinerary, and only have a limited amount of time then this section covers what to see in Latvia and Lithuania as well as Estonia. You could easily visit all these highlights within a week, especially if you have access to your own transportation .

Top 3 Things To See In Estonia

• Tallinn UNESCO Historical Centre
• Lahemaa National Park & Viru Bio reserve
• White Sandy Beaches of Pärnu

Top 3 Things To See In Latvia

• Riga UNESCO Historical Centre
• Art Nouveau District, Riga
• Jurmala Beaches & Villas

Top 3 Things To See In Lithuania

• Vilnius UNESCO Historical Centre

The Hill of Crosses

Trakai castle, baltic states travel guide – useful info.

So, you’ve got an overview of what to see in the Baltic states. If you’re in the planning stages of your Baltics vacation, this section covers some useful information to know before you get there. 

You can easily do the items listed in this article by public transport, especially if you base yourself in one of the nation’s capitals. The Baltic states also make for a great road trip destination . If you want someone else to do the leg work, then you can also join a small group guided tour. 

Getting To The Baltic States

It’s easy to get to the Baltic states, you have several options. The obvious is to fly, Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius all have international airports. 

You could also opt for entry via land – the Baltic states share borders with Poland, Belarus and Russia with trains and buses going from each. To get the best deals on travel, book in advance using the Omio App .

Getting Around The Baltic States

When you plan your Baltics itinerary take into account how you’re going to get around. I started in Estonia and worked my way down through Latvia and then Lithuania. Each of these cities is connected by an efficient bus service.

You could fly between each country, but honestly, it’s not worth it. By the time you get to the airport, check in, and wait, it’s quicker to go by land. 

An alternative is to rent a car and drive. Roads in the Baltic states are well maintained, and outside of the cities, there’s little traffic, so this is a great destination for a road trip.  

Organised Tours of the Baltic States

If you’ve only got a limited time, don’t want to navigate the public transport system or hire a car, then an alternate way of visiting the Baltic States is on a small group guided tour .

Check Availability: Best of the Baltics Highlights 8 Days Tour

What To Do In The Baltics: 23 Things For Your Baltic Bucket List

This section goes into the best places to visit in Baltic States and is categorised by country. Don’t forget you can download this Baltic best-of guide straight to your phone for future reference.

Best Things To See In Estonia

Because of how close it is to Finland, a big chunk of Baltics tourism goes to Estonia as day trips between Helsinki to Tallinn . The city certainly has the most Scandinavian feel compared to the likes of Riga and Vilnius. 

Aside from Tallinn, there’s an abundance of things to do in Estonia, and although I really liked all of the Baltic states, this country was my personal favourite. Here’s the lowdown on the best things to see.

Tallinn Historical Centre

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in the Baltic States is to spend time exploring the UNESCO listed city of Tallinn .

You might be wondering which is the best Baltic city. Truth is, they are all stunning. However, Tallinn, for me, was the most visually beautiful. The UNESCO listed historical centre ticks every box for being a quintessential mediaeval city, with walls, defence systems connected by a myriad of pretty cobbled courtyards and alleyways to spend hours getting lost in.

The city is also rich in history, which includes a pretty harrowing Soviet past. There is still an abundance of relics left from the Soviet era including the eerie KGB prison and headquarters, which is actually housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building right in the heart of the old town.

Check Availability: Tallinn City Tour with Local Guide

Inside the historical centre, there are so many things to see. Tallinn is best explored on foot as the city is compact and mostly pedestrian. The city is surrounded by hills, and there are several look-out points dotted about to walk up to and take beautiful panoramic photos of the city going past the fantasy like Alexander Nevsky cathedral.

One of the most popular things to do in the historical centre is to walk around the remaining segments of the city walls. Once, these surrounded the entirety of the city to protect it from invaders. Today, they no longer make a complete circuit, but you can walk along parts of it.  Lots of the sections still have watch towers to climb. 

If you want to learn more about the history of the city, then it’s worth doing a walking tour of Tallinn with a local guide to give you more insight into the city. 

Make sure you visit the gigantic and rotund Kiek in de Kok. Ideally, you’ll want to spend a couple of hours here. This building also houses the entrance to the super eerie Bastion passages which are built under the city and used in several wars. If you’re looking for a great Instagrammable spot, then be sure to visit St Katherine’s passage.

Tours of Tallinn

There’s a lot to do in the Estonian capital, it’s a great city to wander about by yourself. However, to make the most out of your time in Tallinn, I reccomend joining a tour.

Related Article: 33 Things To See In Tallinn

If you want to escape Tallinn and leave the other tourists behind, you should catch a bus to Kuressaare. This town, with its cute historic centre, is located on Saaremaa, Estonia’s biggest island.

Most travellers visit Kuressaare to see the Episcopal Castle, a huge fortification that dates back to the 14th century. From its towers, you have a great view of the town, but the highlight is the museum inside the castle. 

Here, you can learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the history of Saaremaa. Oh, and did we mention the hidden passageways? The castle is full of them, small, winding staircases that you can take to get from one floor to another.

If you’re tired of climbing stairs, it’s time to relax. Kuressaare is famous for its spas, and here, you’ll have the chance to unwind in a typical Estonian sauna. If you travel to the Baltics in the low season, you could even look into renting a room in a spa hotel. They offer great discounts in winter.

In the evening, we recommend having dinner in a traditional windmill. Here, you can try lots of typical dishes from the region, like wild boar or kama jelly. Give it a try; we’re sure you’ll love it.

Explored by Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights 

Mooska Farm Smoke Sauna

Located in Võru County 3 hours from Tallinn, Mooska Farm Smoke Sauna is an Estonian must-see! Mooska Farm Smoke Sauna is a farm and smokehouse, but the traditional Estonian smoke sauna is by far the biggest attraction here.

No Baltics tour would be complete without experiencing a traditional sauna. The smoke sauna experience has been awarded a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity certificate and is meant to improve your overall sense of wellbeing – in body, mind, and soul. It gave us important insight into local traditions and was an experience we will remember for years to come.

The 3-hour Smoke Sauna experience is guided by the mother of the smoke sauna and wonderful hostess, Eda. She’ll instruct you in and out of the sauna and lead the chanting, meditation, and whisking with leaves, twigs, and honey scrubs. There is also an optional ice-cold skinny dip!

Meats are traditionally cured inside the Estonian smoke sauna and after our sauna experience, we were given the chance to try some alongside other local products from the farm. The meal was homemade and made us feel like the food was reason enough to visit the farm.

Depending on the time of the year, you can also partake in a nature tour with Mooska Farm which typically involves snowshoeing, skiing, or walking through the local forest.

Explored by Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Pärnu is home to one of the best Baltic beaches, and one of the most popular beach destinations across the three Baltic States. Czars and Russian officials made the journey here for their retreats and tourists continue the tradition every summer.

During the long summer days, the town roars to life with tourists and the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea become party central. When the temperature drops, though, it becomes quiet once again and a peaceful place to wander.

Did you know that Pärnu was where Estonia’s independence was first proclaimed? It was read in 1918, and not in Tallinn, from the balcony of the old Endla theatre. The Soviets may have demolished it and a new one was rebuilt in the city, but a replica of the balcony has sprung up in the original spot, with the proclamation inscribed on it. You’ll find it close to the bus terminal.

Away from the beaches, there is still plenty to see in Pärnu during the off-season : A leisurely walk (watch out for the black ice in winter!) takes in marshes teeming with birdlife, traditional wooden houses, including the poet, Lydia Koidula’s, childhood home. You’ll also find decorative art nouveau buildings such as the Villa Ammende, along with historic mud baths and ancient fortifications like the red tower and the Tallinn gate.

It’s enough to turn a rest stop on the Riga-Tallinn journey into an overnight stay.

Explored by Nicholas from Rambling Feet

The Struve Geodetic Arc

If you’re into the sciences or even interesting facts, then this is a must-see on your Baltic States itinerary. The Struve Geodetic Arc is a series of triangulations done by Tartu University astronomer and geographer Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struve between 1816 and 1855. 

The measurement of the meridian, which used the observatory at Tartu University in Estonia as its base point, represented the first accurate measurement of a long segment of an earthly meridian. 

This work helped determine the exact size and shape of the planet and marked an important step in the development of earth sciences and topographic mapping.

Struve did important early astronomy work on the nature of binary stars. But his actual thesis work was on determining the exact geographic coordinates of the Tartu Observatory. This, indirectly, led to his geodesic project.

The observatory is no longer in use, but now serves as a museum and includes many of the measuring instruments, many handmade by Struve, that he used in his work in mapping and astronomy.

The Tartu University site, along with other points along the meridian in 10 countries stretching from Norway to the Black Sea, are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explored by Tom from Travel Past 50

Lahemaa National Park

After touring the cities, it’s sometimes nice to take a break from the concrete and decompress in nature.

Estonia never gets its dues as a significant tourist attraction. When someone mentions Estonia, the first reaction is “Brrrrr. It’s cold.” Yes, the country borders Russia and the capital city of Tallinn is only a 2.5 hour ferry to Scandinavia, but summers in Estonia are a hidden gem.

Lahemaa, the largest national park in Estonia, is a short 1-hour bus ride from Tallinn. If you don’t want to go by bus, then book onto a full day tour of Lehemaa instead.

Summer days this far north of the equator mean EIGHTEEN hours of sunlight. The seemly endless days allow for exploring Estonia’s gorgeous national parks, of these fantastic natural areas, I highly recommend adding Lahemaa to your Baltic travel itinerary.

Check Prices: Tallinn To Lehemaa National Park Full Day Tour

The park is perfect for a picnic in the forest, exploring quaint seaside villages, overnight glamping at the eco-hostel at Projekt Kodu, and hiking the wooden planked path of the Viru bog. Viru bog hike is a uniquely Estonian nature walk.

The 2 to 4-mile hike is over a giant biodiverse peat bog. To keep from disturbing the ecosystem, you hike over wooden planks. The path is well marked, simply follow the planks, with information signs highlighting the plants you will commonly encounter. 

The highlight is the view from the lookout tower overlooking the dark pools of bog water. From that viewpoint, I felt transported back into time, as if I was looking over a scene from Jurassic Park. 

Explored by Marco from Nomadic Fire

Street Art of Tartu

The university city of Tartu is located 186 kilometres (116 miles) southeast of Tallinn and is the hub of Estonian street art . So much so that each year there is a street art festival, Stencitibility. 

Although technically street graffiti is an illegal activity in Estonia, the festival has been running for over 10 years. If you’re a fan of street art, then this is one of the best Baltic cities to visit to find it, in abundance.

The styles differ and are created by local and international artists. With pieces ranging from playful and cartoon-like, to full on political satire. No matter where you walk in the city, you’ll pass some form of street art that adorns every possible surface. 

Large murals decorate the walls of buildings, but you’ll also find artwork on letter boxes, street lamps, doors and roads. Don’t forget to look up and back over your shoulder. You’ll be surprised by how much artwork you will see.

Urban art is a constantly evolving medium, with new pieces cropping up all the time. I’m sure you’ve heard of the urban artist, Banksy, well Estonia has their own answer who uses a similar signature stencil style with pieces provoking political and social issues. Again, like Banksy, Edward von Lõngus keeps his real identity hidden.

Read Next: Visit Tartu – Estonia’s Street Art Capital

Best Things To See In Latvia

Baltic states tourism is alive and kicking in Latvia. Nestled between Estonia and Lithuania, this is the middle sister that attracts visitors passing through the states, with the capital Riga a solid favourite.

There’s an abundance of things to do in Latvia. Here’s the lowdown on the best things to see.

Riga Historical Centre

The Latvian capital has been dubbed the ‘Paris of the north’. It’s easy to see why; beautiful architecture, located on a river and plenty of café culture. If you’re spending any time in Latvia, make sure that you dedicate a couple of days to explore Riga city .

The Old Town of Riga is a listed UNESCO heritage site and is filled with remarkable buildings and picturesque cobblestone alleyways. The historic centre has been lovingly and painstakingly restored and brought back to their original glory after the city’s turbulent past. 

The compact city is ideal to get lost in. When you visit Riga, be sure to see Town Hall Square and make sure to visit the House of the Blackheads . The colourful unmissable facade is one of Riga’s oldest and most beautiful buildings. 

Book Here: Riga Guided City Walking Tour

Then climb one of Riga’s most iconic landmarks, featuring the bulbous spire, St Peter’s Church for an amazing view across the river and the city. If you want to learn more about the history of the city, then book onto a guided Riga city walking tour .

If you’re after one of the livelier places in Riga, then head to Livu Square or the areas surrounding the cathedral where you’ll frequently find street entertainers, live music and market stalls as well as plenty of places to drink. Don’t forget to try the local drink; Riga Balsam!

For the architecture aficionados, then Riga is also the Art Nouveau capital of the world . Albert Street is where you’ll find the highest concentration of them. It’s certainly worth half a day exploring the opulence of a bygone era. If you have more than a couple of days in Riga, then it’s also worth doing a day tour out to Rundale Palace.

Tours of Riga

There’s a lot to see in Riga. One of the most efficient ways to see the best of the city is on a tour. You might like these Riga city tours.

Read Next: The Complete Guide To Riga

Kemeri National Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Latvia to get away from the bustle of the city, then head out to explore some of the unique nature tucked away in the region.

Kemeri National Park is located about 45 minutes away from Riga, Latvia, and makes for a perfect day trip from the city . The park is home to stunning bogs, forests, therapeutic mud, and mineral waters. 

Popular things to do here include hiking through the park including the Great Kemeri Boardwalk, Lake Sloka, Forest House, and Lake Kanieris. It’s also a great place for birdwatching and cycling.

Check Availability: Full Day Trip From Riga to Kemeri National Park

The most popular and beautiful thing you can do in the park is to walk the Great Kemeri Boardwalk at sunrise. You’ll be shrouded in mist, walking through the bog, enjoying the painted sky, wrapped in silence. Towards the end of the walk, climb to the top of the observation tower for amazing 360-degree views of the entire bog.

To get to the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk, you can take a train from Riga train station every 2 hours for just a few euros. Get off at the Kemeri Railway Station. It’s a bit of a walk from the train station to the beginning of the hike, follow the signs for “Leila Kemeru tirela taka”. If you don’t want to go by train book a tour to Kemeri from Riga .

If you’re travelling the Baltics by car, then you’ll be glad to hear there is plenty of free parking at the park. 

Explored by Kelly from Snap Travel Magic

Gutmanis Cave

Gutmanis Cave is located in the Sigulda region of Latvia, about 1 1/2 hours by bus from Riga. It’s not very big, but what makes Gutmanis Cave famous is the number of legends that happened here. The most famous one is The Rose of Turaida, a Latvian love story. 

This tragic tale is about a girl who was found as a baby during the Swedish – Polish war. She was adopted, baptised and given the name Maia. One day she fell in love with a gardener named Victor Heil and soon after they were engaged. 

Legend says they met at Gutmanis Cave in the evenings, but an army deserter named Jakubowsky also fell in love with Maia. One day Jakubowsky sent Maja a love letter pretending to be Victor asking her to meet him at the cave. She arrived, and Jakuboswky appeared out of the shadows and attempted to force himself on her. 

She begged for him to stop and said in return, she would give him a scarf that would protect him from all injuries, and if he didn’t believe her, he could try it out on her first. He stabbed her with his sword as blood gushed from her neck. She would have rather died than betray her fiancé.

Today, every Latvian knows this story, and if you visit the Sigulda region during your Baltics travel you will certainly come across it. It’s so famous that there is even an opera based on the legend.

Explored by Marika from Clumsy Girl Travels 

A warm sea breeze, colourful art nouveau villas, flower-lined pedestrian streets, and a carefree attitude are just some of the signature hallmarks of Jurmala .

This cheerful little resort town is located right in the middle of the Gulf of Riga, and just 40 minutes from Latvia’s capital, Riga. For added effect, take the retro elektrichka (electric train). If you’re pushed for time, you can also book a half day trip to Jurmala .

If you’re travelling to Latvia, don’t miss visiting Jurmala – especially in the summer! 

Although this town was known for its healing sanatoriums back in the USSR, it hasn’t lost its charm. It’s still the go-to place for travellers around Eastern Europe.

Book Here: Jurmala Half Day Tour From Riga

Grab a towel and start your trip at one of Jurmala’s beaches. My personal favourite is Majori beach, which is clean, has plenty of space to spread out, and is close to the centre. If you prefer something more active, then hire a bike and cycle along the coast .

Speaking of the centre: don’t travel to Jurmala without taking a casual stroll along Jomas Street! This is the main high street of Jurmala and is full of beautifully photogenic villas, boutique shops selling local Latvian goodies, and delicious cafes.

If you’re craving nature, the Dzintari Forest Park is the place to be: It’s the perfect spot for families, as there’s an entire children’s area. Whether you’re travelling to Latvia for a day or a week, Jurmala is a must for any Baltic States travel itinerary!

Explored by Luda from Adventures with Luda

Ventspils is a great stop off for a Baltic Road trip. Founded over 700 years ago this beach city is located on the western coast of Latvia. Ventspils is known as the Latvian capital of flowers and fountains. 

Ventspils Port is Latvia’s oldest and one of Europe’s busiest ports. In the town centre, there is a beautiful historic carillon bell which plays the melody “Pie dzintara jūras” each hour. Other must-visit places are Livonian Order Castle and Ventspils Town Hall Square.

The entire city is adorned with flowers from spring to autumn. It is famous for its artistic spirit and numerous cow sculptures around the city. During the ‘City Festival’ in August, florists from Baltic states cover the Promenade of Ostas Iela with carpets of flowers. During this time, you will find several extraordinary flower sculptures and unusually shaped greenery, flower beds, and fountains all around the city.

Like many of the beaches in the Baltic States, Ventspils offers a beautiful white sandy beach with special areas for surfers and nudists as well as having plenty of amenities nearby.

If you want to learn more about the history of the area, you can discover Ventspils’s marine history in the Seaside Open Air Museum with its nostalgic collection of fishing boats, nets, and huts. Take a beautiful ride on a narrow-gauge steam train running from here.

If you’re after souvenirs, Ventspils market square is the best place for buying locally made products. The market was established in the 17th century and alongside the handmade gifts, you’ll find locals shopping for vegetables, fruits, clothes, flowers, plants and meat. If you have time, and you’re on a Baltic States road trip, you could spend at least a couple of days in Ventspils.

Explored by Moon Ray from Nomadic Mun

Sigulda is one of the most charming, yet underrated and lesser visited towns of Latvia . If you’re wondering what to see in Latvia that’s a little off the beaten track, then this is a true hidden gem. 

Known as the ‘Switzerland of Latvia’, this region has an abundance of appeal for active travellers. I recommend renting an electric bike for half or a full day or joining a hiking tour of Sigulda . This way you can get closer to wonders like the Sigulda castle.

Take the cable car to the opposite slope passing over the Gauja river, the Sigulda’s bobsleigh track, and the hipster Jāņa market; a great option to stop for lunch and coffee.

Book Here: Full Day Tour From Riga to Sigulda with Castle, Ruins and Cave Visit

If you have your own vehicle, you can go a little further to discover places like Gutman’s cave, Krimulda manor, and Turaida museum. Finally, if you enjoy walking, don’t miss the nearby Cecili and Amata hiking trails in the wonderful Gauja National Park, a short distance from Sigulda. 

If you don’t have a car, then book on to one a full day tour to Sigulda instead.

Ideally, you would want to visit Latvia between late spring or early autumn to make the most of the outdoor activities, however, if you visited during the winter, then be sure to add a visit to a local sauna into your plans.

Explored by Inma from A World to Travel 

Best Things To See In Lithuania

Lithuania is the largest of the 3 Baltic states. Along with another UNESCO listed historical capital, there’s a load of stuff to see here. 

Wondering what to see in Lithuania ? Here’s a list of the best things to see.

Vilnius Historical Centre

The Old Centre of the Lithuanian capital is one of the most beautiful Baltic cities, and as with Estonia and Latvia, is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. The mediaeval city is known for its mixture of architectural styles with a huge emphasis on baroque style buildings. 

A guided walking tour of Vilnius will give you loads of insight into this fascinating city. The main hub of the Old Town is Pilies Street and Gediminas Avenue. Both are lined with these exquisite buildings which are now a buzz with stylish cafes. boutique restaurants and often lined with street markets.

You could easily spend a couple of days in Vilnius getting lost and exploring the quaint cobbled paths, courtyards and alleyways. Be sure to visit Cathedral Square, the Vilnius Cathedral and the Town Hall Square as well as one of Vilnius’s most beautiful buildings, the Vilnius University – it’s got 13 courtyards!

Other must-see places are St. Anne’s Church and the Gate of Dawn, a 16th-century gate which once guarded the entrance to the original city.

One of the more interesting areas in Vilnius and certainly worth a few hours is the autonomous district of Užupis. This community within the city is filled with quirky artwork often made from recycled and reclaimed materials and thought-provoking and sometimes political messages.

Just outside of the historic city centre, you’ll find that Vilnius also has an outstanding street art scene.

Tours of Vilnius

Just like the other captials mentioned in this article, there’s a lot to see in Vilnius. This is another UNESCO listed city with an abundance of things to see. To make sure you don’t miss anything, book onto a guided city tour.

If you’re looking to get into a bit of Lithuanian history, Trakai Castle is for you. Completed at the start of the 15th century, this mediaeval castle stands proudly on an island in Lake Galvė in the town of Trakai. While the castle itself became obsolete centuries later, it stands as an important symbol of Lithuanian statehood.

To get to the Castle, you take a long wooden bridge from the shore across the lake. In the summer, the lake provides a beautiful relaxing escape from the city. In the winter, you can walk across the frozen lake to get to the Castle (ice conditions depending).

Inside the castle walls, there are numerous areas like the courtyard, keep, and chapel that you can explore. Spend some time wandering around the gallery rooms reading and exploring the artefacts. Trakai Castle is a great place to learn about the history of Lithuania .

Check Availability: Guided Tour of Trakai Castle

It is really easy to get to Trakai. The town is only about 40 minutes drive from the capital, Vilnius. Take the bus from Vilnius. The bus station in Trakai is south of the castle so you walk through the town – with cafes and shops – before spotting the castle across the water.

Because Trakai Castle is located on an island in the middle of a lake, there are various ways of seeing it; by kayak in the summer and by kick sledge in the winter when the lake is frozen.

Explored by Eric from Penguin and Pia

Located in the north Lithuania, not far from the small unassuming town of Šiauliai, you have perhaps the most fascinating thing to see anywhere in the country and also one of the best places to visit in the Baltics. 

Thousands upon thousands of people flock here every year to visit the Hill of Crosses . A small hill in the countryside, dominated by more than 100,000 crosses!

Pilgrims have congregated here ever since the 1800s when there used to be a matter of hundreds of crosses here. In recent decades’ popularity has exploded and now it’s a wonderful sight to behold regardless of whether you are religious or not.

In 1993, the Hill of Crosses was so widely renowned that it was worthy of a visit from the then-reigning Pope John Paul II.

Book Here: Hill of Crosses Guided Tour with Transportation from Vilnius

Even if you aren’t religious, most people still find their visit here to be pretty magical. It’s fascinating walking up and over the hill taking in the incredible array of crosses, and the pictures look pretty cool as well! 

After your visit, take some time to walk a bit further out from the hill, enjoying the large church behind as well as taking in views of the never-ending Lithuanian countryside in all directions. 

A no-fuss option for visiting Hill of Crosses is to opt for a tour that includes transportation and a guide .

Explored by Bradley from Dream Big, Travel Far

If you’re looking for the perfect small city to visit in the Baltics, then you really can’t go wrong with the charming port city of Klaipeda. Often overlooked as simply a jumping-off point for the Curonian Spit, there are several things to do in Klaipeda that make it worth visiting in its own right.

As a very important ice-free port in the Baltics, Klaipeda has been a strategic city for centuries, giving it a robust and interesting history.

There is plenty of maritime history here that is worth learning about and a few museums that can help you to understand just how influential Lithuania’s third-largest city historically was. One of the most relaxing ways to explore Klaipeda is from the water in a handcrafted canoe .

Along with boasting a charming riverside pathway lined with lovely historic ships, Klaipeda also has a pretty old town worth wandering through and a great restaurant scene that showcases the newfound love for modern Lithuanian cuisine.

The city also has a couple of beautiful, white-sand beaches perfect for taking advantage of the long, sunny days of a Lithuanian summer. 

Explored by Maggie from The World Was Here First 

Grūtas Park

If you’re interested in either dark tourism, or Soviet history, then Grūtas Park will be one of the top things to do in the Baltics. Grūtas Park is located in southern Lithuania, not far from the border with Belarus. The nearest town is Druskininkai, about eight kilometres away.

When Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1990, the Soviet statues that had been on display in public spaces were pulled down and dumped in various places around the country. Then in 2001, a wealthy local man collected them and turned them into a kind of Soviet theme park, nicknamed “Stalin World”.

Check Availability: Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park Full-Day Tour

This idea was opposed by many at the time and remains controversial today, but the intention was never to glorify the Soviet regime. When you look at the park’s recreation of prison camps, barbed wire fences and guard towers, it’s clear that the purpose is to document the horrors of this difficult time in Lithuania’s history. 

For a better insight, it’s worth exploring the parks and statues as part of a guided tour .

Among the 86 statues in the park, you’ll find a dozen or so of Lenin and even two of Stalin, which is pretty unusual. Even today, you’ll often come across Lenin statues while travelling in Russia and some other former Soviet countries. But de-Stalinization has been ongoing since the 1950s, so it’s rare to come across an image of him. 

While I understand why some Lithuanians are not in favour of the park, I believe that it can help locals and visitors alike to better understand the country’s recent history.

Explored by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

Any trip to Lithuania, particularly in the summer, wouldn’t be complete without at least a day trip to Palanga! The Baltic sea brings large crowds together in the summer months when visitors can get their fill of swimming, sunning, and playing in the sand.

One of the most famous Baltic sea landmarks is the Pier of Palanga. It’s a great spot for photos as you head to the ocean, which you can also walk under depending on the tide. I highly recommend spending time at the Seaside Regional Park, a unique gateway to the sea with large trees that line the sand out to the water in some places.

This park is noted for the Dutchman’s Cap, which is a sand-dune climb to the highest elevation. Seaside Regional Park is also a breath-taking spot for sunsets. Bring a picnic basket and settle in the sand for a gorgeous light show through the trees.

Besides the typical beach activities, tourists can rent bikes to ride through green forest paths. A family favourite is the nearby Lithuanian Fairy Tale park, which features several interactive sculptures that kids like to climb and play on. 

Palanga is located in the northwestern-most tip of the country, so it is an easy addition to any road trip through Lithuania and its neighbouring country, Latvia.

Explored by Monica from This Rare Earth

Dvina Missile Base and Žemaitija National Park

In September 1960 the Soviets started a top-secret construction. 10,000 soldiers moved to Žemaitija National Park, in northwest Lithuania to build a nuclear missile base that had the potential to destroy every city in Europe. 

Once completed, its strategic importance to the Soviets in the Cold War was second only to Cuba. One of the best ways to enjoy the Žemaitija National Park is by canoe .

It was finally discovered in 1978 by U.S. reconnaissance teams but had been decommissioned 4 years earlier. Thankfully no missiles were ever fired.

Check Availability: Full Day Canoeing at Žemaitija National Park

Now it’s one of the very few nuclear missile silos in the world actually open to the public as a museum. The 100-foot deep missile silo is a highlight, tours also include displays of propaganda and the history of the Cold War. 

You can easily visit the Cold War Museum when taking a road trip through the Baltics and enjoy the Žemaitija National Park that surrounds it. The vast parks, forests and lakes are home to rare wildlife such as Lynx and are well worth spending a day or two exploring while travelling in Lithuania.

Explored by Jo from Lost Wanders

Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania, is one of the coolest places to visit in the Baltic States. The city has big historical value, it used to be an important trade centre in the region in the 15th century, in the interwar period Kaunas was the capital of Lithuania. 

These are not the only reasons why you should visit the city! With its diverse history, old port and wars, Kaunus is steeped in ghostly stories.

With all the great things to do in Kaunas , you won’t be bored there for sure. Besides the traditional monuments; churches, old houses, and the remnants of the castle from the 14th century, Kaunas offers a great street art scene, exceptional modernist architecture from the interwar period, and some unique museums (like the only Devils Museum in the world).

This is also the only city in Lithuania with funicular trains, there are two of them in Kaunas, both built before World War 2. The coolest spot to visit in the city is the hidden Yard Gallery.

A local artist wanted to bring the community together and created a real wonderland, with numerous art installations, street art and photos of Jewish families that used to live in that complex.

When you get hungry numerous restaurants and cafes along Vilniaus street and Laisves avenue invite you to sit down, relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kaunas. 

Explored by Kami from My Wanderlust

Curonian Spit

On the western edge of Lithuania, drawing a line across the edge of the Baltic Sea lies the Curonian Spit; a thin strip of land 61 miles long and just over a mile wide that connects Lithuania to a small piece of Russia.

This idyllic gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by both countries and is the perfect destination for beachgoers, casual hikers, sailors, families and anyone who wishes to relax in nature. If you’re after something more active, then you can do a full day by canoe around the spit .

The Curonian Spit has a folkloric creation legend on the Lithuanian side. It was made by Neringa, a beautiful and good-hearted Lithuanian giantess, who collected sand in her huge skirt and poured it out to form the Spit so that it could protect the people on the coast from raging storms. Because of this, part of the land is named in her honour.

Book Here: Full Day Curonian Spit by Canoe

The town of Nida is also a draw for literary enthusiasts, as the Nobel Prize-winning author Thomas Mann spent summers in a holiday home he had built there in the 1930s.

In addition to this, on the Lithuanian side, the Curonian Spit is also home to the Hill of Witches – a supernatural-themed sculpture park in the village of Juodkrante, featuring wood carvings of people and creatures from mythology and supernatural lore.

The easiest way to get to the Curonian Spit is from the town of Klaipeda, and catch the ferry over to the spit.

Explored by Jeremy of Cultura Obscura

Druskininkai

Druskininkai is a special place in Lithuania, this city is well known for spas, relaxation, healing mud, clean air, and mineral water. In the 50km spectrum, there are no factories, and Druskininkai is surrounded by forests that’s why the weather there is extremely fresh.

You can pick your own forest goodness like mushrooms, blueberries, cranberries, etc. Actually, this region of Lithuania has an old saying: “if there were no mushrooms and berries then Dzūkų women would be naked”. In the Lithuanian language, it rhymes.

If you love spa holidays or just want to relax for a weekend then Druskininkai is your destination. Also, there are many trekking roads, bicycle roads, lakes, and beautiful nature.

One of the top spas is UPA Medical Spa it is modern and minimalistic, the staff is super professional and they offer a variety of procedures. For top-notch Spa treatments and luxury accommodation, it’s well worth checking out this hotel.

I love that this city is small that’s why all restaurants and hotels personally take care of you and you make really warm memories of your stay. Also, I highly recommend going to a restaurant called “Sicilia” and trying their mussels, it’s just extremely delicious. It is one of the best restaurants in the city where you should come before dinner time during weekends or you will have to wait in line outside.

Recommended by To Youpiter 

Best of Baltics – Frequently Asked Questions

So, are the Baltics worth visiting? Yes! I’ve given you plenty of great reasons to go. 

This section has the answers to questions that frequently come up about the practicalities of visiting the Baltic states as well as useful travel tips .

What Are The Baltics Known For?

The Baltics are known for their UNESCO capitals, cultural richness, and unspoilt forests and lakes and white sandy beaches.

Can I do a small group tour of the Baltic States?

There are several companies offering tours of the Baltic States. Opt for a small group tour to get the most out of your visit. Check out this great small group tour of the Baltic States .

How do I get to the Baltic States?

Each country has their own designated international airport located just outside the capital. This makes getting to the Baltic States, from destinations within Europe or from as far away as the United States very easy.

Is it easy to travel around the Baltic States?

If you are travelling to the Baltic States without a car or not going on a tour, you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s easy to travel around the countries.

There are decent train and bus networks across all three countries, and services are very affordable and regular. If you really wanted you could get a flight between each of the capitals, but this isn’t necessary as they are only a few hours apart by bus.

A great travel app to search across bus, train and flight is the Omio App.

Where can I find a list of Baltic countries?

This article covers the three Baltic states, it’s made up of just three countries;  Baltic countries list  = Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

Which is the best Baltic country to visit?

It’s difficult to determine which Baltic country is the best to visit as the three Baltic states share a lot of common features as well as having a similar history. 

Each of the Baltic capitals holds UNESCO world heritage status, fascinating history as well as beautiful landscapes. Purely based on the capital Tallinn, I thought Estonia was overall the most beautiful Baltic country, then Lithuania and then Riga but this is so subjective. 

What are the best things to do in the Baltics?

Not sure what to do in the Baltic states? Here are some great tour ideas to give you some ideas.

When is the best time to visit Baltic States?

The winters in the Baltic States are cold, so unless you enjoy sub-zero temperatures, this probably isn’t the best time to visit the Baltics. However, that said, the festive season can be incredibly picturesque, with the pop-up Christmas markets, particularly in Tallinn.

Also, these countries are geared up for the cold weather, and things like saunas and ice skating are popular activities.

The best time to visit Baltic countries is from late spring through to early autumn, with July and August being the warmest months. Because the Baltic states are located high up in Europe, in June you can expect over 18 hours of daylight per day.

What should I pack for the Baltic States?

It can rain all year round, even in the summer. It’s best to pack layers of clothing, as well as have a lightweight, wind and rainproof jacket.

In the peak of winter, pack a thick jacket, hat scarf and gloves as well as thermal socks and waterproof shoes. It gets extremely cold.

For all year round, pack a pair of comfortable shoes as most likely, you will be doing a lot of walking. Take a pair of shoes with a good grip on the bottom, especially if you’re visiting historical city centres, as often they are cobbles and can be difficult to walk on.

What currency does the Baltic States use?

You’ll be glad to hear that the three Baltic nations all use the Euro, so you won’t need to change currency when you enter a new country. Hotels and tourist places will accept cards and ATMs are frequently available.

Planning On Visiting The Baltic States?

If you had any doubts about are the Baltic states worth visiting, I hope this article has answered that.

How many of these places are you adding to your Baltic bucket list? I hope this Baltic travel guide has given you lots of inspiration. 

Whether you’re backpacking the Baltics, on a short weekend break to just one of the countries, or on an extended Baltic States vacation, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of places of interest.

If you enjoyed this best Baltic places article , you might also like…

• Riga 3 Days Itinerary
• What To Do In Tallinn
• Estonia’s Street Art Capital of Tartu

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed DIY travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a solo traveller on a mission to experience the best adventures our fabulous little planet offers. I love creating my own itineraries that focus on unforgettable experiences, from climbing mountains and scuba diving to spotting wildlife and exploring ancient ruins.

When I'm not on an adventure, you'll probably find me sipping coffee or with a glass of wine in hand, planning my next journey.

Baltics Travel Guide: Plan Your Visit to the Baltics

There are few areas of the European Union that have been explored less by international visitors than the three Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. While Tallinn, Estonia has seen a massive influx of tourism in recent years due to its capacity as a cruise ship port and Riga, Latvia has increased in popularity as Ryanair began to offer cheap connections from other major European cities, the rest of the Baltics remain essentially untouched by foreign tourism. The sheer lack of tourist crowds can make travelling in the Baltics an appealing option for those looking to get truly off the beaten path in Europe.

This Baltics travel guide will cover the basic information needed for you to begin to plan your Baltic adventure. Topics including currency, transportation, budget and accommodation information, safety concerns, religious and cultural nuances, and regional cuisine are all things worth considering before you embark upon your journey through these three undiscovered countries.

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Table of Contents

Baltic Countries

Located in Northeastern Europe and bordering Poland to the south, Belarus and Russia to the east and the Baltic Sea to the north, the Baltics countries comprise the nations of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Distinct in culture and tradition, these countries are great to visit as one block or individually and you can easily spend months exploring and getting to know them.

If you want some country-specific information rather than a more holistic view of the region, you can browse guides and articles specifically for Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania below.

Planning a Baltics Route

Though the Baltics are only comprised of three countries, planning the perfect route through them can actually be quite a bit of an undertaking. While many of those visiting this incredible region will plan to visit only the capital cities of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius and fail to branch further, this is also a huge mistake.

There is so much to see and experience in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia that you really need to make sure that you put in a good amount of time to plan your route. While the capitals are lovely, dynamic and diverse and very much worth visiting, you also cannot miss the smaller cities and towns, either.

If you want to plan out the perfect Baltics itinerary to suit your travel style or are unsure which capital city to prioritise then make sure to have a look at our detailed articles below.

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

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Estonia Itinerary

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

Places to Visit in the Baltics

While most notable for their capital cities, there is a lot more to the Baltic states than just the major metropolitan areas.

From second cities like Kaunas, Lithuania and Tartu, Estonia to beachy wonders like Liepaja, Latvia or the incredible Curonian Spit in Lithuania, the Baltics have so much to offer visitors beyond the capitals and top tourist sites and it is well worth taking the time to seek them out.

So if you’re trying to figure out where to go in this beautiful region and to step a bit beyond the well-trodden tourist trail, then have a browse through some of the articles below. Here we outline how to dig deeper in the capitals along with what to do in some of the lesser-visited cities!

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

Things To Do In Klaipeda: Lithuania’s Charming Port City

My Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Kaunas

Things To Do In Liepaja: A Two-Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tallinn Itinerary

A Perfect Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park from Tallinn

12 Best Things To Do In Saaremaa, Estonia

Best Things To Do In Tartu, Estonia: A 2-Day Itinerary

11 Best Things To Do In Parnu, Estonia

2 to 3 Days in Riga Itinerary: Things to Do in Latvia’s Capital

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

Best Time to Visit the Baltics

Elsewhere in Europe we generally recommend travelling the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-October in order to get good weather while avoiding tourist crowds.

However, arguably the best time of year for Baltics travel would be in the high season months of June-August. Because the Baltic nations are so far north, they see disparate temperatures — winter highs fall well below freezing and both autumn and spring and be quite chilly and rainy as well.

If you truly want to get the most out of your Baltics itinerary, going in the summer months is highly recommended, especially if you want to enjoy the pristine coastline and white-sand beaches that rival many of those found in the tropics.

The weather is mild and never gets too hot, but be warned that there are mosquitos! We both were feasted upon while in the Baltics in July, so come armed with some bug spray if you don’t want to be covered in itchy welts for the majority of your holiday.

There aren’t huge tourist crowds in the summer, either, particularly if you venture outside of the capital cities. Another benefit to travelling in the high season vs shoulder or off-seasons is that all of the interesting tourist attractions, museums, and tours will be fully operational.

Many businesses catered toward tourists close from October-May due to a lack of crowds, so if you want to be able to experience everything the Baltic nations have to offer, travelling in summer is the best decision!

There is something to be said for visiting the Baltics in December, however. The snow-covered cities and towns look like something out of a fairytale and there are Christmas markets to rival those of Bavaria — just make sure to bundle up!

Autumn can be another appealing time to visit the Baltic States if you don’t mind a little bit of rain and cold. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are incredibly green countries (all three have gone through a massive period of reforestation since gaining independence from the USSR) and the fall foliage is any nature-lovers dream! Just make sure to pack appropriately.

Cost of Travelling to the Baltics

Just one point on the long list of pros for Baltics travel is that they are quite possibly one of the most affordable regions in the EU. Your money can go a long way in all three countries and the affordability of the region can allow even the most miserly of budget travellers to live a bit more luxuriously.

It is worth noting, however, that prices in the Old Towns of Tallinn and, to a lesser extent, Riga can see prices that are nearly double than what you can find in less touristy areas of the city. These are really the only areas where you might need to penny-pinch.

If you are trying to save money, we recommend staying away from the tourist centres in the capital cities where prices can be very high. Find accommodation outside of the Old Towns and search for restaurants that cater to locals rather than tourists.

This will not only help you stick to a tight budget but will also give you greater insight into how and where residents of whichever city you’re visiting live on a day-to-day basis.

Read More: Baltics Travel: How Much Does it Cost?

Currency in the Baltics

Unlike travelling in the Balkans or even through Central Europe , where most countries use different currencies, all the countries in the Baltics use the Euro! Estonia was the first to adopt the Euro in 2011 while Latvia and Lithuania followed in 2014 and 2015 respectively making exchanging and converting currency a breeze when travelling through the Baltic states!

ATMs are also prevalent and easy to find wherever you may be in the Baltics so you should have no problem withdrawing cash, and it is always preferable to go with this route rather than relying on exchange booths with their less-than-savoury rates and fees. It is recommended that you find a debit card that refunds ATM fees and doesn’t charge for foreign transactions.

Credit cards are also widely accepted in most major establishments, which eliminates the need to carry large sums of cash at all. Again, just make sure that your card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees and you should have a seamless and affordable trip to the Baltic states!

Baltic Cuisine

Baltic food is incredibly diverse and draws significant influences from its neighbours including Russia, Poland and Nordic countries.

Plenty of dishes you’ll encounter during your Baltics travel will be very similar to other Eastern European countries such as potatoes, pelmeni (dumplings), rye bread, dairy products and soups.

What sets the Baltic states apart from other Eastern European countries is their geographic location on the Baltic Sea meaning there is plenty of fish incorporated into their diet, such as smoked salmon and pickled herring!

Apart from standard drinks such as beer and vodka, it’s worth sampling local spirits such as Black Balsam (herbal liqueur) in Latvia, Vana Tallin (rum liqueur) in Estonia and Krupnikas (honey liqueur) in Lithuania. Fermented soft drinks made from rye bread known as Kvass in Latvia and Gira in Lithuania are also worth trying and taste similar to root beer.

For those that are interested, Estonia, in particular, has a thriving craft beer scene that can rival some of the most established further west. If you are a fan of a craft brew, Estonia is the place to go for fantastic and innovative beers that can be found throughout the country.

Read More: A Traveller’s Guide To Latvian Food And Drink

Transportation in the Baltics

Whether you want to rely on public transport for the entirety of your trip or would rather have the ease and flexibility of a rental car, there are a few things to keep in mind. For instance, whilst trains do exist for some routes, generally, it is more convenient and practical to use buses when travelling between Baltic countries.

Lux Express is the main bus company that operates routes between the Baltic States and Poland. Their buses are fantastic and very comfortable and offer amenities such as individual TV screens, WIFI, hot drinks and plenty of legroom! Furthermore, as the three Baltic states are part of the Schengen Area border crossings are seamless! You can book bus tickets for the Baltics here.

It is worth noting that, especially in summer, buses can book out early so it is good practice to book at least a couple of days in advance. This can save money as well, as it is usually cheaper to book online as many travel deals are offered. If you know which days you are planning on moving from city to city, this is a great option.

When moving between cities within one country during your Baltics travel, it’s worth investigating whether buses or trains are best for your route. Buses usually have the most extensive network however in some countries, particularly Latvia, there is a great train network for moving between the major cities surrounding Riga.

Though the public transit between cities in the Baltics is frequent and reliable, if you want to venture into more rural parts of the country or just don’t want to be at the mercy of bus timetables, it can be very worth renting a car.

Accommodation in the Balkans

One minor inconvenience of Baltics travel a budget backpacker might find is that there is a lack of hostels outside of the bigger cities.

This, however, doesn’t mean that there is a shortage of budget accommodation in the Baltics. Airbnb rentals are prevalent, and there are also more traditional guesthouses and BnBs in most larger towns and cities that can be an affordable accommodation option.

One thing to keep in mind if you happen to be travelling in the high season is to make sure to book a bit in advance, especially in the capitals and coastal towns as the best places tend to book out early.

If you’re looking for accommodation in either Riga or Vilnius, then you also happen to be in luck as we have written detailed guides outlining different areas to stay and options including hostels, Airbnbs and budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels! Browse the articles below to find your ideal accommodation in these Baltic capitals.

Where to Stay in Riga, Latvia: The Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Vilnius: The Best Areas and Hotels

Language in the Baltics

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Baltic countries went through a process of reinstating their national language as the official language of their country. Latvian and Lithuanian are Indo-European languages that share similarities while Estonian is more closely related to Finnish.

The second language for many people from the Baltics is Russian, particularly for older people that went to school during the Soviet occupation. In some cities, particularly those closer to the Russian border, the main language will actually be Russian rather than the Baltic equivalent.

There is a higher Russian population in Latvia and Estonia than in Lithuania and you are more likely to hear Russian being spoken in these two countries than in Lithuania, with the possible exception of the Curonian Spit, which shares a border with Russia and therefore receives a fair amount of Russian tourism.

If you do speak Russian and want to use it to communicate in the Baltics, it is worth knowing that some people might prefer that you speak English to them first . Baltic people from all three countries are very proud of their national identity and don’t necessarily want to be associated with Russia today — including in language.

Younger people and those living in the capital cities will be more likely to be able to speak some English while German will also be common in some parts of the Baltic states.

Religion in the Baltics

Though the general public and governments of the Baltic nations are largely secular, religion is a very important topic to discuss as there is a lot of diversity in the region.

The majority of people from the Baltic states subscribe to a particular form of Christianity. In Lithuania, the majority of people are Catholic, in Latvia, there is a more diverse mix of Lutherans, Catholics and Orthodox Christians while Estonia is predominately a mix of Lutherans and Orthodox Christians.

Many younger people, in particular, don’t see religion as a significant part of their lives. As an example, Estonia has one of the largest per capita populations of people who don’t believe in God.

Travelling through the Baltics is a wonderful, rewarding experience that is sure to delight all those who try it. There is so much to see, do and experience that you’re certain to be astounded by just how much these small countries have to offer.

From dynamic cities to white sand beaches to medieval castles, the Baltics can encapsulate a quintessential European experience with a fraction of the tourist crowds of Western European destinations.

The Essential Travel Guide to the Baltic States

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to estonia, latvia, and lithuania—and why you should be bound for the baltics on your next trip..

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Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has a history that stretches back to the Stone Age.

Photo by Diego Flore/Shutterstock

Strung along the Baltic Sea, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are small nations with long and complicated histories. Nearby larger powers, especially Russia and Germany , have long shaped their cultures, politics, and commerce, but despite being part of the Russian and Soviet empires at different points, each nation has managed to maintain its distinct character and language.

The three Baltic countries also possess an appearingly paradoxical balance: Although highly urbanized in certain areas, they’re mostly forested or agricultural. Their capitals offer the appeals of other northern European cities—lively restaurant and bar scenes, galleries, museums, and shopping—while their national parks help preserve the beauty of the region, from the birch forests dotted with lakes and streams to the vast stretches of dunes occasionally interrupted by centuries-old castles.

The capital of Latvia, Riga is known for its beautiful art nouveau architecture.

Photo by Shutterstock

Occupying the northern end of Eastern Europe, the three countries have been at the center of many historic moments. While nominally independent since World War I, they remained firmly under Soviet influence long after Word War II, even though they never officially joined the Soviet Union. On August 23, 1989, 2 million protestors formed a human chain across the Baltic republics and set in motion the official withdrawal of the Red Army. In the years since, these nations, and the more than 6 million people who call them home, have seen a burst of entrepreneurial energy, making them more exciting than ever to visit.

When to Go to the Baltic States

The Baltic States are countries best visited in summer, when temperatures are mild and the sun shines for 18 hours on the longest days. Taking advantage of off-season deals may backfire: Spring is often brief and wet, fall is chilly, and winter is dark, cold, and challenging for travel, especially to rural areas. Even if you stick to the milder coastal regions (where Tallinn and Riga, the Estonian and Latvian capitals, are located), you’ll often find yourself facing snowy forecasts in the colder months.

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, boasts a bustling restaurant and bar scene.

Getting Around the Baltic States Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius—the capitals of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, respectively—all have major international airports, though there are no direct flights from North America. If you intend to explore beyond the capital cities—and there are many reasons to do so—know that bus service is more extensive than train, but both are limited and a rental car will make traveling much easier. Another way to see the region is by cruise, many of which provide a great introduction to Tallinn, Riga, and Klaipėda (Lithuania’s major seaport).

Food & Drink

The cuisine of the Baltic countries has much in common with that of Russia—beets and potatoes, delicious dark breads, and a variety of dumplings are served at restaurants throughout the region. You’ll also find fish and shellfish, however, because cooks here take full advantage of the bounty of the Baltic Sea. Game is popular, too, and if you visit in the summer, you’ll get to indulge in the area’s short but spectacular growing season. Fruit wines are a favorite, so toast your adventure with a glass of cherry or black currant wine.

All three capitals have existed for centuries, with Vilnius’s history stretching back the furthest (a settlement was there as early as the Stone Age). In each city, the old towns are ideal for wandering among medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings. Riga is famous for its many art nouveau structures, while Vilnius has recently begun to recognize the beauty of some of its Soviet-era architecture. Cheap flights from elsewhere in Europe have helped fuel bar, music, and restaurant scenes, though more so in Tallinn and Riga than Vilnius.

Time travel back to the Middle Ages with a visit to Lithuania’s Trakai castle.

Photo by Marek Dravnel/Shutterstock

Can’t Miss Beyond touring the historic sites in the capital cities, you’ll want to visit the medieval castles that dot both the coastlines and interiors of the Baltic States. Trakai, a castle on an island in Lake Galvė, is especially stunning, recalling the height of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Also worth seeing is the atmospheric Sigulda in Latvia, where 12th- and 13th-century crusaders lived while attempting to convert the Baltic region’s then-pagan population.

For culture outside the capitals, head to Lithuania’s major seaport of Klaipėda, a city strongly influenced by Germany (it was politically part of the country until 1923, when it was annexed by Lithuania). Also visit Estonia’s second largest city, Tartu, home to important history and the country’s largest university. When you’re craving nature, Lahemaa, Estonia’s largest national park, features a variety of landscapes, from forests to dunes to alpine lakes.

Practical Information

U.S. travelers to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania do not need to obtain any special visas, but their passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the end of their planned stay. Each country has its own language and, while locals will appreciate any effort to learn a few phrases, you’ll find that most people who interact with travelers speak at least some English. All three countries are in the eurozone, with Lithuania the last to adopt the euro as its currency in 2015. C and F plugs are common in all three states and the standard voltage is 230—the adapters you would use when traveling in Western Europe will work in these countries, too.

>>Next: The #1 Reason You Need to Hit Up Latvia This Summer

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 8, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Baltics Travel Itinerary – OVERVIEW:

Days 1-2: tallinn, estonia.

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

Day 6: Cēsis, Latvia

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

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

Here’s our suggested Baltics travel itinerary:

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

Here are some  highlights of Tallinn  you should check out:

Town Hall Square

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

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

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

Toompea Hill

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

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

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

Tallinn’s City Walls

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

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

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

Additional recommendations

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

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

Where to Stay in Tallinn

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

Days 3-4: Kuressaare

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Kuressaare

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

Day 5: Tartu

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Tartu

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay

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

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

Day 7: Sigulda

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

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

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

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

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

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

Days 8-9: Riga

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

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

Riga Old Town

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

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

House of the Blackheads

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

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

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Riga

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

Day 10: Hill of Crosses & Klaipėda, Lithuania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Klaipeda

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

Day 11: Day trip to the Curonian Spit

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

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

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

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

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

Day 12: Kaunas

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Kaunas

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

Day 13: Trakai & Vilnius

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 14: Vilnius

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

Walk around the Old Town

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

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

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

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

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

Cathedral Square, Gediminas Castle & Neris River

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

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

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

Gediminas Avenue & Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

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

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

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

Republic of Užupis

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vilnius

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

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

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

If you have a few more days in the Baltics…

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

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

Map of this Baltic States Itinerary

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

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

Some Practical Info for Planning Your Trip

Best time to visit.

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

The Baltics in the winter

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

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

Renting a car vs. public transport

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

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

Is it safe to travel to the Baltics?

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

Which is the best Baltic state to visit?

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

READ ALSO: Best places to see in Lithuania

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

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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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Thursday 8th of August 2024

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

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

Friday 23rd of June 2023

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

Saturday 24th of June 2023

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

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

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

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

Thursday 5th of January 2023

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

Saturday 7th of January 2023

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

Monday 13th of June 2022

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

Tuesday 14th of June 2022

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

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

Must-see attractions in The Baltic States

Hill of Crosses

Lithuania's fabled Hill of Crosses is a symbol of defiance as much as a pilgrimage site. More than 100,000 crosses have been planted on this low hill,…

Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

If you only see one museum in Vilnius, make it this one. On a site that has been settled since the 4th century AD stands the latest in a procession of…

Turaida Museum Reserve

Turaida means ‘God’s Garden’ in ancient Livonian, and this green knoll capped with a fairy-tale castle is certainly a heavenly place. The red-brick castle…

Estonian Open-Air Museum

This sprawling ethnographic and architectural complex comprises 80 historic Estonian buildings, plucked from across the country and resurrected in…

Vilnius Cathedral

Stately Vilnius Cathedral, divorced from its freestanding belfry, is a national symbol and the city's most instantly recognisable building. Known in full…

Grūtas Park

With Soviet-era statues of Lenin, Stalin and prominent Lithuanian members of the Communist Party that once dominated Lithuanian towns lining the forest…

Vilnius University

Founded in 1579 during the Catholic Counter Reformation, Vilnius University was run by Jesuits for two centuries. During the 19th century it became one of…

Cold War Museum

This museum on the site of a former Soviet nuclear missile base is situated deep in the heart of the Žemaitija National Park. The highlight is the chance…

Kuressaare Episcopal Castle

Western Estonia & the Islands

Majestic Kuressaare Castle stands facing the sea at the southern end of the town, on an artificial island defended by stone-faced earth bastions and…

Museum of Genocide Victims

This former headquarters of the KGB (and before them the Gestapo, Polish occupiers and Tsarist judiciary) houses a museum dedicated to thousands of…

Lithuania's dark 20th-century history is poignantly told here, 7km north of Kaunas. Begin in the sombre, church-like gallery with striking stained glass…

Cathedral Bell Tower

Climb the creaky stairs into the free-standing belfry of Vilnius Cathedral, once part of the city's 13th-century defences. Towering 57m high, it's one of…

Daugavpils Fortress

This impressive riverside citadel is enjoying an ongoing renovation that's recreating its historic atmosphere. Look for the restored Nicholas Gate near…

Sigulda Castle Complex

The city of Sigulda has done a fine job developing the historic buildings at its core into one unmissable complex. The highlight is the Livonian Order…

Cēsis Castle

Cēsis Castle is actually two castles in one. The moody dark-stone towers belong to the increasingly restored old castle. Founded by Livonian knights in…

Nemunas Delta Regional Park

Where the Nemunas, Lithuania's largest river, spills into the Curonian lagoon, it splits into four distributaries: the Skirvytė, the Atmata, the Pakalnė…

Narva Castle

Begun by the Danes at the end of the 13th century and strengthened by successive owners including Germans, Swedes and Russians, this castle, along with…

Trakai Castle

Stepping across the wooden walkway to Trakai's Gothic castle is like tripping into a fairy tale. The castle is estimated to date from around 1400, when…

Europos Parkas Sculpture Park

Some 21km north of Vilnius, off the Utena road, is Europos Parkas. Leading contemporary sculptors, including Sol LeWitt and Dennis Oppenheim, show over…

Cathedral Square

Katedros aikštė buzzes with local life. In the 19th century markets and fairs were held here and a moat ran around what is now the square’s perimeter so…

Muhu Museum

Koguva is an exceptionally well preserved, traditional Muhu village, now protected as an open-air museum. One ticket allows you to wander through an old…

Rīga Ghetto & Latvian Holocaust Museum

Maskavas Forštate, Avotu Iela & Grīziņkalns

The centrepiece of this arresting and challenging museum is a wooden house with a reconstructed flat, like those that Jews had to move into when the Nazis…

Amber Museum

Housed in a neoclassical palace built by Count Feliksas Tiskevicius in 1897, this revamped museum showcases what is reputedly the world’s sixth-largest…

Lithuanian Ethnocosmology Museum

This unusual museum explores the cosmos’s connection to cultural ideas of hell, heaven and earth in its bubble-shaped exhibition centre. Dwarfing it are…

Biķernieki Memorial

Between 1941 and 1944, the Nazis – aided by Latvians – shot more than 35,000 Jews at 55 different sites in this forest. It is one of several killing sites…

Tolerance Centre

One of the main branches of the Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum, the Tolerance Centre is simultaneously a museum of Jewish history and culture, and a…

These striking pine-covered cliffs loom above a pristine white-sand beach dissected by a glistening stream. This is one of the most enchanting places…

Sts Johns' Church

The full name is 'Church of St Johns, St John the Baptist and St John the Apostle and Evangelist', but 'Sts Johns' (plural) will do nicely. Founded in…

Užupis Art Incubator

One of two branches of the creative powerhouse of the Užupis Republic, the Galera shows exciting temporary exhibitions by local talent and invites artists…

Kalnciema Kvartāls

A lovingly restored courtyard with several vintage wooden buildings is home to creative cafes, shops and restaurants. It's also home to a fantastic…

MK Čiurlionis National Museum of Art

One of Lithuania's oldest and grandest galleries, Kaunas' leading art museum (founded 1921) is the place to acquaint yourself with the dreamlike paintings…

Rinkuškiai Brewery

The pride and joy of the region brews over two dozen beers, including the Port of Discovery and Microhistory series. On-tap offerings include a temptingly…

Pärnu Beach

Pärnu’s long, broad, sandy beach – sprinkled with volleyball courts, pop-up bars, cafes and changing cubicles – is the city’s main draw in summer. A…

Plateliai Manor

The old granary and stable of the former Plateliai Manor now houses a highly worthwhile museum complex. The granary holds a multistorey exhibition…

Kuldīga Waterfall

Spanning 249m, Ventas Rumba is branded Europe's widest waterfall, though it's far from the tallest. Its subtle beauty becomes compelling the longer you…

Museum of New Art

Pärnu's former Communist Party headquarters now houses one of Estonia's edgiest cultural spaces, established in 1992 as the country's first museum of…

Institute of Horticulture

Southern Latvia

These massive gardens draw throngs of visitors each spring when the scores of fruit trees are in bloom. There are apricot, cherry and plum orchards, as…

Opened in October 2018, this assemblage of contemporary Lithuanian art and photography is the country's first private museum. An orderly union of sharp…

Valmiermuiža

See how one of Latvia's best-known craft beers is made on an entertaining tour: expect friendly guides and plenty of samples. Enjoy hearty pints and…

Cape Kolka Point

Watching the Baltic swells crash into the blue swells of the Gulf of Rīga is mesmerising. Find a spot away from the summertime crowds on the narrow beach;…

More destinations you need to see

The Perfect, Magical 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

History of the Baltics

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sources 1 , 2 , and 3

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

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

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

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

Official Languages 

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

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

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

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

Are the Baltics Safe?

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

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

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

The Best Time to Visit Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia

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

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

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

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

Baltic Currency and Cost

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

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

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

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

Getting There

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

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

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

Getting Around the Baltics

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

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

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

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

Or, you can fly between cities using Baltic Air.  

Getting Around the Cities

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

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

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

Don’t Forget the Beaches

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

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

My 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

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

My Suggestions for Your 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

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

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

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

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 1-4: Tallinn 

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Tallinn

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

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

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

Walking Tour

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

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

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

Make sure you tip your guide! 

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

The Times We Had Sign

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

Christmas Markets (Mid November through First Week in January)

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

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

Shopping and Wandering

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glehn Park and Estonian Open Air Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Optional Day Trip to Helsinki

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some must-see sites in Helsinki:

• Senate Square
• Helsinki Cathedral
• Market Square
• Suomenlinna 

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

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

Other Options for Day Trips 

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

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 5-7: Riga 

Next on your Baltic itinerary is Riga.

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Riga

Try to get a hotel close to the Old Town. 

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

See the Main Sites

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

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

Take Some Awesome Pictures in Vecriga

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christmas Market

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

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

Optional Day trip to Kemeri National Park

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

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

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

Options for Day Trips  

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

10 Day Baltic Itinerary Day 8-10: Vilnius 

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

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

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

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

Arriving in Vilnius

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

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

Where to Stay

Try to stay in the Old Town of Vilnius. 

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

Vilnius Free Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

Other Sites to See

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

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

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

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

Museums in Vilnius

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

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

Pilies Street

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

Cathedral Square, City Hall, and Bernardinai Gardens Christmas Markets

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

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

The Republic of Uzupis

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

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

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

People seem happy here, and very loving. 

Optional Day trips

Trakai Castle

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

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

Panamune Road and Castles

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

Hill of Crosses

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

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

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

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

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

Kaunus/Devil’s Museum

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

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

I recommend Etno Dvaras for some traditional Lithuanian food.

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

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

Witches Hill

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

Grutas Park

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

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

Other Optional Day Trips 

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

Final Thoughts on this 10 Day Baltic Itinerary

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

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Baltic States

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General information

A new and distinct European travel experience abounds in this region budding with tourism. Discover a natural bounty of cultural riches in the forests and lakes that cover endless stretches of countryside. Explore Gūtmaņala Cave, the largest in the Baltic States. Cruise the splendid Baltic Sea coastline. Tour the wonders of the Estonian archipelago, the islet of Neringa and the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Look for pebbles of golden amber on the coast and then follow the Amber Road to Venice. Marvel in the medieval ramparts, the world’s preeminent collection of art nouveau architecture, and a rich crossroads of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and classical buildings in the region’s proud capitals. Surround yourself with exotic languages, a history of merchant cultures and burgeoning tourist experiences.

The Craft of European Beers

An art form throughout Europe, brewing’s tradition can be traced back to the trappist monks and continues to live in today’s breweries. Visit the oldest breweries in Europe for a stout experience, rich in history.

7 of Europe’s Most Romantic Seaside Dining Spots

No trip to Europe is complete without dining on the best local flavors. And some of Europe’s best dishes can be found in coastal countries. From classic pasta recipes in Italy to fresh seafood in Norway, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your palate. Browse this gallery of some of Europe’s best seaside dining before you decide where to go for dinner during your trip.

Authentic Estonia

Tips for sustainable travel in Setomaa!

SPAtacular Estonia!

Visit Pärnu for health, romance, and family fun!

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Built to Inspire

Europe’s cities are filled with every style of architecture imaginable. Oftentimes, these styles coexist side by side and somehow make each city even greater than the sum of its parts. Government buildings, hundreds of years old, stand in regal fashion next to sleek, modern museums and libraries, making for an enjoyable juxtaposition that just begs to be captured by your camera. From old castles in San Marino to grandiose Lithuanian cathedrals, you’ll be inspired by the markedly different buildings designed by the famous architects of Europe.

Birdwatching in the Baltics

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The essence of Estonia

Perfect souvenirs to remind you of a perfect trip!

Countries in this region

Recommended trips, pilgrimage routes and shrines of western europe.

Why walking a pilgrimage route in Europe is the best way to truly experience rural splendor and spiritual bliss.

Cruising Along the Adriatic to the Mediterranean

Vacation is a time to get away from it all and sit back, pamper yourself and enjoy a truly relaxing getaway. Europe is the perfect place to do that and more. Full of beautiful beaches and unforgettable views, it’s easy to relax and rejuvenate. Take a relaxing cruise through the Adriatic Coast and Mediterranean Islands for an unforgettably soothing experience. So leave your worries at home and get ready to unwind on your next vacation in Europe.

Secrets of the Eastern Mediterranean

A historic region that symbolizes legendary myths, fierce battles and breathtaking views of islands, beaches and mountains, experience the rich culture, traditions, gastronomy and surprises of each destination along the way.

Exploring Europe with Kids

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Swirl, Smell and Savor: a unique wine tasting trail

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An Iconic Trip Through Europe

Europe is a place rich with history and culture. From Stonehenge in Great Britain to The Alps in Switzerland, the landmarks and sites of magnificent Europe will inspire your travels for years to come. Take it all in with a landmark trip through Europe on your next two-week getaway to some of Europe’s most iconic locations.

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Art in the Estonian forest

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Music on the Brain

Even if the only music lesson you ever had was more than four presidential administrations ago, it’s never too late to learn and appreciate different kinds of music. Families, college students and lifelong learners flock to Europe to take advantage of its plentiful opportunities for cultural enrichment through music.

Expect the Unexpected

Europe has many famous museums that are must-see attractions, but there are lots of smaller, unexpectedly entertaining museums just waiting to be explored. Stop following the crowds and head off the beaten path to discover these lesser-known gems. They just might surprise you and become highlights on your trip to Europe.

Go the distance in Estonia

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Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF)

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Plan Your Trip

Discover baltic bliss.

One thing I learned, as I planned my own Baltic states travel itinerary months ago, is that there are as many tours of the Baltics as there are travelers who explore this European frontier. While some people (a narrow majority, perhaps) stick to the Baltic capitals of Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn, others prefer to explore the evergreen-encrusted sandbars and boggy forests that make up the Baltic landscape.

Whatever the end goal of your trip, my blissful Baltics itinerary will provide a solid foundation for your own adventure. I have a feeling you’ll be booking a flight by the time you’re finished reading it!

Practical Matters

When to visit the baltics.

Conventional wisdom says that Baltics weather is crappy outside the summer months, but climate change has thrown that out the window. Indeed, while only about half my early September days in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were sunny, a friend of mine who visited nearly a month later had pristine weather the whole time. Another approach to take, when it comes to the timing of your Baltics trip, is to go during the dead of winter as I did when I traveled to Russia .

Where to Stay in the Baltics

With the exception of certain properties in Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn (properties whose luxuriousness requires you to pay handsomely, I should add), most places you stay during your Baltic itinerary will be unremarkable—and that’s being kind. Indeed, while I loved my stay at Tallinn’s Villa Hortensia , and would’ve preferred to have slept at Hotel Justus in Riga, had my plans not changed at the last minute, most of my Baltic hotels were too unremarkable to remark upon.

How to Get Around in the Baltics

My approach to Baltic transport was as eclectic as the Baltic States themselves. While I subsisted primarily on cheap Lithuania trains and buses, and traveled by bus on my only day trip from Tallinn, I rented a car in Latvia. While I’m hesitant to characterize this as a mistake (though it was certainly an expensive choice whose ROI was questionable), I’d say that for most Baltic itineraries, public transport should be sufficient for getting around.

Money, Costs & Communication

Are the Baltics expensive? In a word no, though there are exceptions to this rule. For example, while I never paid more than 10 euro for a meal in Lithuania, and had several bus fares there I could pay with small change, prices in Riga and Tallinn were more in line with those you find in the better-known capitals of Europe. Overall, I’d say that most travelers can expect to pay around 100 USD per person, per day in the Baltic States, though backpackers can probably go as low as 50; there’s no upper limit, for better or for worse.

Most every Lithuania itinerary will start in the country’s capital Vilnius , though this shouldn’t be a default decision. Rather, Vilnius’ sprawling Old Town is a thing of beauty, whether you look out onto it from Gendiminas Castle Tower at sunset, or wake up early to traipse through the courtyard of Vilnius Cathedral before anyone else gets there.

Trakai and the Hill of Crosses

There will be plenty of castles on your Baltics itinerary, but there’s no place like Lithuania’s bizarre Hill of Crosses . On the other hand, the Vermillion-roofed Trakai Castle is perhaps my favorite fortress in the entirety of the Baltic States, even if seeing it on a day trip from Vilnius (the second of my 12-day Baltic adventure) did prove a little anti-climactic.

Klaipeda and the Curonian Spit

Likewise, most people’s Baltics travel will visit the Baltic Sea at some point—the clue is the name. While beaches and islands in Latvia and Estonia have their own charm, nothing in those countries comes close to Lithuania’s Curonian Spit . A 60-mile sandbar whose wild dunes and charming Nida town are fully worth the trek to Klaipeda city, the Curonian Spit is home to the most beautiful beaches in the Baltic States.

Many travelers wonder how many days in Riga they should spend; I always answer simply: All of them. Then I follow up, explaining that since Riga is near the geographical center of Latvia, it will be their home base. They’ll sleep there every night, though most will only spend a day or two explore Old Town Riga and the Art Nouveau architecture on offer just to the north of it.

Jurmala and Liepaja

My fawning for the Curonian Spit above notwithstanding, your Baltic itinerary is likely to visit the beach in several countries; in Latvia you have two main options. If you plan to travel by public transport and simple want to see the sea, get a bus to Jurmala , which is only 30 minutes from Riga and whose name literally means “Beach.” Liepaja , on the other hand, is something of a mini-Riga (and a more Soviet-style one at that), though its beach is disappointing, in my opinion.

Cesis, Kuldiga and Rundale

Having a car, though I previously expressed regret about my decision to have rented one, greatly opens up possibilities for your Latvia itinerary . For example, while travelers dependent upon public transport could probably only fit one of the three destinations listed above into their destination, a car allows you to see the castle towers of Cesis , the wide waterfall of Kuldiga and the Versailles-like palace at Rundale in one day.

Estonia’s capital is simultaneously the most beautiful city in the Baltics region and also the most disappointing one. I don’t say this to insult Tallinn , of course, or to suggest there’s nothing to see outside its Old Town — Kadriorg Palace refutes that notion on its own. Still, I can’t help but conclude that the city shows all its cards pretty immediately, pretty as they may be. If you feel the way I do, you can always take a day trip to Helsinki .

Lahemaa National Park

The best Baltic itinerary will always include time in a swampy forest, which is why a day trip from Tallinn to Lahemaa National Park (whose star attraction is, well, a bog-filled forest) is such an iconic addition to make to your trip. The bus from Tallinn to Viru Bog takes less than 35 minutes, while the entire loop around the bog (including a trip up the not-so-high observation tower) can be done in less than two hours, all-in.

Saremaa Island

Many an Estonia itinerary will include a visit to the much-hyped (among Estonians and those familiar with the country, anyway) Saremaa Island . However, if you this includes yours, you should keep in mind that it’s not very easy to visit on a day trip from Tallinn. The island is larger than it looks on the map; buses aren’t so frequent and are also not extremely quick. Book a hotel here, if you have enough time.

How Many Days Should You Spend in the Baltics?

One thing my Baltics itinerary doesn’t specifically delineate is how long your Baltic trip should last. Personally, I found a little under two weeks—which is to say four days each in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia—provided a sufficient balance of the culture, cities and nature that make this part of the world so special. You can adjust this up or down, depending both on the length of your own Europe itinerary , as well as whether you’re solely headed here, or to other parts of the continent.

Other FAQ About Visiting the Baltics

Which is the best baltic country to visit.

In my opinion, Lithuania is the most interesting Baltic country to visit. After you’ve had your filled of architecture and history in Vilnius, you can head to the coastal city of Klaipeda, which is just a stone’s throw from the dramatic beaches of the Curonian Split. While Riga (Lativa) and Tallinn (Estonia) are more interesting as cities than Vilnius, the rest of each of those countries are comparatively boring.

How do you travel between the Baltic States?

While buses run between major Baltic capitals, I personally find that flying is the best way to travel between Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn, particularly if you’re short on time. AirBaltic, an airline that’s hubbed at Riga Airport, makes this especially easy, assuming you put Lativa at the center of your Baltic trip (as you should).

Which is nicer, Tallinn or Riga?

While Tallinn seems more made for Instagram and is certainly a more popular destination, I actually find Riga to be a more enjoyable city. It’s much larger and less touristic; the city is as much about its Art Deco district as it is about the quasi-Soviet edificies that stand in various places around its city center.

The Bottom Line

I hope this has helped you plan the ultimate Baltic states travel itinerary, from the eclectic capital cities of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, to the subtle fierceness of the landscapes that define the region. Whether you fashion your Baltic trip as I did, or use my Baltic trip plan as a blueprint for your own, one thing is for certain: This oft-overlooked corner of Europe is a part of the world you’ll never forget. Make sure to consider hiring me as your Travel Coach if you get stuck planning your trip to the Baltics.

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Baltic states

• 1.1 Other regions
• 2.1 Capitals
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Religion
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By boat
• 6.3 By train
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.3 By train
• 7.4 By bicycle
• 8.1 Itineraries
• 12 Stay safe

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Baltic_states\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> The Baltic states are three countries of north-eastern Europe , on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea. The three small countries have a long interesting history, and an impressive cultural heritage dating back to the Hanseatic League . The region's 175,015   km 2 are home to 6.3 million people, nearly half of them in Lithuania.

North to south:

Other regions

Kaliningrad Oblast – a bizarre small slice of Russia between Lithuania and Poland that makes for an interesting addition to a Baltic trip. Entering the exclave requires a Russian visa.

The three capitals all have UNESCO -listed old towns, Soviet concrete new towns and occasional 21st-century buildings in between.

The cities are roughly listed North to South

• 59.437222 24.745 1 Tallinn – smallest of the three but still an aspiring global-feel city and Estonia's digital industrial hub
• 56.9475 24.106944 2 Riga – the region's biggest city, Latvia's party town has much to offer
• 54.687222 25.28 3 Vilnius – Lithuania's cosmopolitan centre

The towns and cities are roughly listed North to South

• 58.38 26.7225 4 Tartu – Estonia's second city with a relaxed student vibe
• 55.871389 26.516111 5 Daugavpils – second biggest city of Latvia
• 56.508333 21.011111 6 Liepāja – Latvian beach city known for its music and the former secret Soviet military town of Karosta
• 54.9 23.933333 7 Kaunas – second biggest city of Lithuania, with an old town and many museums and galleries
• 55.7125 21.135 8 Klaipėda – Lithuania's harbor city—belonging to Germany until World War I under the name "Memel" and still served by Baltic Sea Ferries from German ports
• 55.928056 23.316667 9 Šiauliai – Lithuanian city with odd specialist museums and the Hill of Crosses

Other destinations

• 58.416667 22.5 1 Saaremaa – largest Estonian island, green landscapes dotted with quaint villages and a medieval castle
• 56.9665 23.722111 2 Jūrmala – Latvian resort town on the Baltic Sea; draws a crowd in summer for the long stretch of sandy beach and cool forests
• 55.274444 20.970833 3 Curonian Spit – a sandy spit containing the largest drifting sand dunes in Europe, at the border of Lithuania and Kaliningrad Oblast
• 59.393056 27.774167 4 Sillamäe – former Soviet closed town in Estonia near the Russian border, today it is known for having a treasure trove of beautiful Stalinist architecture

Baltic States are diverse, and each country and region has a different history and culture. While Latvia and Estonia were under foreign dominance for centuries, Lithuania was one of the major powers in the region. The culture of the Baltic states was strongly influenced by Scandinavians, Germans, Poles and Russians. Modern history of the Baltic States has been especially shaped by various forms of Russia , since it gained control over the area during the 18th century. People of the Baltic States have strong national identities, and are today well-integrated with the Western world.

The Baltic states have had vibrant histories. Christianity , Germans and feudalism arrived together in the 13th century. Also in the 13th century, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania emerged as a major political player in Medieval Europe. The Hanseatic League dominated commerce on the Baltic, until the Danish Empire and later the Swedish Empire came to rule the Sea.

In the 16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth took over control of the area. It lasted until the late 18th century. The area of the Baltic states was then largely absorbed into the Russian Empire , with a slice of modern-day Lithuania being given to Prussia , later becoming part of the German Empire .

As part of revolutionary Russia's speedy exit from World War I in 1918, the early Soviet government relinquished claim on the region, creating the states which exist today. Germany was also considerably reduced in size after the war.

The Soviet Union rebounded and re-annexed all three states during World War II in a move greatly resented by their populations. The Nazis used anti-Soviet sentiment to help them form Baltic auxiliary police units that assisted the Nazis in wiping out almost all of the area's Jewish population (see Holocaust remembrance ) and others considered ethnic or ideological enemies (notably including Poles), though the Nazis' claims to being liberators were not widely believed for long. The Soviets yet again annexed the Baltics in 1944, in a move condemned as illegal in the West but tolerated as part of the emerging Cold War diplomacy. All three states maintained a strong sense of national identity throughout the Soviet period, with fierce resistance against Soviet rule by the local population, culminating in an independence movement known as the Forest Brothers that was active throughout the entire period of Soviet rule. In 1990–91, the Baltic states led the breaking away of the USSR's constituent republics from the central government. They all swiftly turned away from Moscow towards the West, and joined both the European Union and NATO in 2004. All Baltic states are members of the Eurozone with Lithuania being the last to do so in 2015.

The Baltic States have seen rapid economic growth since their independence, leading to them being dubbed the Baltic Tigers ; while hit hard by the 2008 financial crisis, they saw a rush of emigration, but recovered in a few years. As of 2020, they are the only former Soviet republics whose standards of living have risen to Western European standards, and the only ones to be classified as "advanced economies" (i.e. developed countries) by the IMF. In 2017, the United Nations Statistics department changed categorization of the Baltic States from eastern Europe to northern Europe.

Kaliningrad , subject of ethnic cleansing and repopulated by Russians loyal to Moscow, became an exclave of Russia after the fall of the USSR.

All three countries are home to significant ethnic Russian minorites as a result of the history of Soviet rule. These communities generally maintain close ties with Russia, making relations tense between them and their respective governments. While Lithuania granted citizenship to its ethnic Russian minority following independence, most ethnic Russians in Latvia and Estonia are stateless permanent residents; they are allowed to remain in the respective countries, but not allowed to vote in elections or claim certain welfare benefits.

Traditional Christian affiliations were Lutheranism in much of Latvia and Estonia, and Catholicism in Eastern Latvia and Lithuania. Communism and the general loss of religion across the Western world have heavily altered the traditional affiliations: Once a Lutheran country, Estonia is now among the least religious countries in the world, as 49% say they have no belief in God, and a further 40% claiming to be either agnostic or not being affiliated with any religion; in Lithuania, 49% say they do, and Catholicism remains a vital life force in everyday life; Latvia is evenly split between Lutherans, Orthodox (mostly among the Russian community), and irreligious. A smattering of pagan belief persists, for example the Romuva faith, perhaps because this was one of the last areas of Europe to be Christianized.

Each of the three countries has its own language, with Russian as a common second, or even first, language of many, particularly in the cities. English is widely spoken among the younger generation educated after independence; those born after the fall of the Soviet Union tend to be fluent, especially in Estonia. German is often understood and spoken at a conversational level. Any attempt to speak the native language is greatly appreciated.

The Estonian language's similarities with Finnish, along with Finnish cultural influences, allow much mutual comprehension. In Tallinn Finnish is spoken or understood at most places of interest for the average visitor. Some Polish is spoken in Lithuania.

Given that Russian was the language of the perceived colonial oppressor, it may not be well received. Try first communicating in the native language or in English, at least for greetings and to ask whether the person prefers to speak Russian. The negative attitude towards Russian tends to persist more strongly in Estonia and Latvia, with Lithuania having less anti-Russian language sentiment. Generally speaking, the younger generation schooled after independence is more likely to speak English than Russian. That said, all three countries have significant ethnic Russian minorities whose native language is Russian, particularly in some neighbourhoods in their respective capital cities and in areas near the Russian border. Younger ethnic Russians who were educated following independence usually speak the respective country's national language as well, though older people who were educated during the Soviet era typically do not.

Latvian and Lithuanian are related to each other as Indo-European Baltic languages. It is commonly believed that Baltic and Slavic languages are more closely related to one another than other branches of the Indo-European language family, but this is not even yet the unanimous opinion of linguists and unlikely to be of much help understanding people or recognizing cognates. Estonian is relatively closely related to the Finnish language, much more distantly related to Hungarian (about as close as Spanish and Greek are) and not related to the Baltic languages or any other Indo-European language even though there are of course loanwords.

All three states are part of Europe's Schengen area .

Generally speaking there are fairly good connections from other parts of Europe and from the western half of the former Soviet Union. Save for a few exceptions, getting to the Baltics from elsewhere always includes at least one change of planes.

Riga Airport ( RIX   IATA ) in Latvia is by a large margin the busiest airport in the Baltic countries. It is the main hub of AirBaltic , which flies to around 60 European cities (including most major cities) and has seasonal routes to the Middle East and Central Asia. When flying to the Baltic states, chances are you will pass by Riga.

Tallinn Airport ( TLL   IATA ) in Estonia is a small airport with fewer direct connections than its neighbors. However, it ranks among the best airports in the world for its excellent customer service, modern facilities, and overall efficiency. It is Air Baltic's second hub, is served by several low-cost airlines, and has flights to most major airports in northern and central Europe.

Vilnius Airport ( VNO   IATA ) in Lithuania is mostly served by budget airlines Wizz Air and Ryanair, for which it is a major hub, although a number of major carriers and charter airlines can be found as well. Vilnius also has a rather large catchment area that reaches deep into Belarus and northeastern Poland.

Ryanair also provides several connections to Kaunas Airport [ dead link ] ( KUN   IATA ). Palanga Airport serves as a small regional airport for the western part of Lithuania with a few routes.

Ferries criss-cross the Baltic . A popular route is Helsinki – Tallinn . There are also many Baltic cruises .

Vilnius is the entry hub for rail travelers from Warsaw , Kaliningrad and Belarus . Note that the trains from Vilnius to Moscow and from Kaliningrad to St Petersburg via Vilnius (do not confuse with direct train from Vilnius to St Petersburg) pass through Belarus, which might require an additional visa.

The capitals are all connected to each other by short flights. From Riga there are flights to Kaunas and Palanga . From Tallinn there are flights to Tartu , Kuressaare and Kärdla .

The international bus network is pretty well developed making for easy movement. Bus is in most cases the fastest and most practical way for intercity travel if you don't have a car.

The capitals have direct services between them. There is a daily service between Tallin and Riga, with interchange in Valga , and, as of July 2024, there is a single service between Riga and Vilnius daily.

The international bicycle project, BaltiCCycle may provide you with a lot of information and help.

Your own car or a rented one is also an option, especially if you want to get to places outside major cities. Large highways are in a good shape and almost comparable to the ones in the Nordic countries , sideways and streets (in particular in smaller towns) much less so.

Two strategies may be helpful for travelers who want to explore the Baltic states by rented car. The first is to take buses or trains between major cities and rent and return a car locally. The other is to rent a car in one of the three capitals and then make a loop or figure 8 route. Returning a car to a different city or country will increase the cost by at least 50%, but usually 100%.

• The Baltic sea coast with sandy beaches, including the Curonian Spit
• Some of Europe's lowest "highest country points"; Suur Munamägi (318 m) near Võru , southeast Estonia, Gaiziņkalns (312 m) near Madona , central Latvia and Aukštojas (294 m) southeast Lithuania near the Belarusian border.
• World heritage listed old towns in all three capitals.
• Buildings and other remains from the Soviet Union .
• The Hill of Crosses near Siauliai

Itineraries

• Via Baltica – Goes from the Estonian capital Tallinn through Riga , Latvia and Kaunas , Lithuania and continues to Warsaw , Poland .
• Cruising the Baltic Sea

The Baltic cuisine has similarities with the Nordic , Russian , and Central European cuisines. They have a wide range of bread , eaten to nearly every dish. The most traditional alcoholic beverages are beer and vodka , though kvass (a beverage commonly made from rye bread) is also common.

Due to their geography and history, the Baltic States are fond of hard liquors and beer. Another common drink in the area is Kvass.

Unlike their giant next-door neighbor to the east and many other former Soviet Republics, the Baltic states have never suffered from rampant criminality; they are usually safe from a tourist standpoint, and taking the basic precautions will suffice to feel comfortable. Larger urban areas do have their (marginal) share of non-violent offenses, whereas rural areas are virtually crime-free.

Nevertheless, keep the following information in mind:

• Alcoholism is a significant problem in the Baltics. Watch out for people (including tourists from the UK, Germany, and Russia) who cannot control themselves, especially in bars, nightclubs, and low-income neighborhoods. Security guards in the region have very low tolerance on the matter, and they will resort to violence to get rid of drunkards.
• Violent crimes such as aggravated assaults have occurred, but are usually limited to poor towns and areas off the beaten track. The city of Narva in northeastern Estonia, the western part of Riga, and the northern suburbs of Vilnius are notable examples of places with higher-than-average crime rates.
• In Riga and Tallinn, the Russian mafia remains present, but is unlikely to harm tourists. Both cities are also known to inhabit "gopniks", the Slavic equivalent of chavs in the UK.
• Open homosexuality is rare in the region, and same-sex couples will often be met with glaring stares by older generations, but violent reactions are unlikely, especially as the younger generations are more accepting of the LGBT community.

Stay on the Baltic coast with:

• Gdansk – historic Prussian port town, later home of the Polish movement Solidarity, which helped bring down communism
• Helsinki – enter the Nordic countries via the charming Finnish capital
• Stockholm – easily reachable by ferry and plane, Sweden 's capital is another excellent entry point to Scandinavia
• Kaliningrad – estranged former Soviet brother of the Baltics, Russia's westernmost outpost
• St Petersburg – a prettier way to see Russia than Kaliningrad

Or head inland to:

• Minsk – see Stalinist architecture of the 1950s at its best
• Moscow – Russia's capital is the world's northernmost city with more than 10 million inhabitants, and has a lot to see and do
• Warsaw – vibrant cultural life and good dining

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What to Know Before You Travel to the Baltic Region

Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia

When to Visit

Countries of the baltic region, the culture of the baltic region.

The Baltic Region of Eastern Europe is a unique territory inhabited by non-Slavic natives as well as ethnic Slavs. Travelers to the Baltic Region will discover the centuries-old folk culture, strong national pride, and the refreshing air of the Baltic Coast.

Visiting this region offers sights and activities not found in other countries in East or East-Central Europe. The capital cities may provide the most as far as entertainment, sights, and shopping go, but a trek into the countryside will mean the exploration of castle ruins, enjoying a day at an open-air museum, or spending a revitalizing holiday by the sea. Furthermore, villages and towns showcase interesting snapshots of life in the Baltic Region.

While most people visit the Baltics in the summer, other seasons have a wealth of options for the off-season traveler. Autumn and spring are beautiful times to visit these three countries. Winter has the remarkable advantage to visit as it is the season during which Christmas markets and related events allow visitors to participate in holiday traditions. When you dine out in the Baltics, seasonal dishes such as cold beet soup in the summer and hearty stews in the winter will be popular fair at restaurants serving traditional fare.

Nestled together on the coast of the Baltic Sea—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—make up the Baltic Region of Eastern Europe.

Latvia is situated between Estonia, its neighbor to the north, and Lithuania is its neighbor to the south. To get a better idea of location, look at these  maps of the Eastern European countries . Because Russia (and Belarus), Poland, and even Germany have shared borders with the Baltic Region, the Baltic countries may share some characteristics of nearby countries. Each Baltic nation has a coast on the Baltic Sea, which has provided fish, amber, and other ocean resources to Baltic Region locals.

Visiting all three Baltic countries is easy, with regular flights between the capital cities of Tallinn, Riga , and Vilnius. Short distances between the cities also mean that travel by bus is convenient, affordable, and comfortable and that seeing all three cities in one visit is possible.

Although Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are grouped geographically as the Baltic Region, they differ from one another culturally and linguistically. The countries consistently strive to encourage the world to see them as unique nations. Locals and visitors alike can learn about the folk cultures and the evolution of languages in art and history museums in the Baltic Region. 

As far as language goes, both Lithuanians and Latvians share some  similarities of language , though the two are not mutually intelligible; Lithuanian is considered to be the more conservative of the two. Meanwhile, the Estonian language derives from the Finno-Ugric branch of the language tree, making it entirely different from both.

Festivals and markets across the region year-round also highlight unique elements of each nation's culture and history through folk dances, songs, crafts, and food. These song and dance festivals preserve this essential part of these countries' cultures, which was integral to gaining their independence during the Singing Revolution.

Countries in the Baltic Region also celebrate holidays according to local customs, so Christmas in Lithuania, while similar to​ Christmas in Eastern Europe, is definitely unique, with many special customs and traditions of its own.

Related Articles

More related articles.

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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How to explore the Baltic States in a week

• December 4, 2023

The Baltic States, comprising Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania, aren’t necessarily the top countries to visit in Europe but each of these countries offer everything that any other European nation does – from charming old towns, castles, museums, hiking activities for nature lovers, greenery and landscapes, relaxed vibe, great wine & food, and stunning countryside that provides a more laidback experience for those not looking to be in the cities. The Baltic States share historical and cultural ties, as well as geographical proximity, so it is very easy to travel from one to another by road. The public transportation connectivity is great between the cities, with several operators such as LuxExpress, Ecolines, Infobus, Flixbus, Ollex, etc offering excellent connectivity at an inexpensive price. My favourite in terms of leg space, facilities, comfort, and efficiency was LuxExpress.

Another thing that will make it easier for you to travel within The Baltics is downloading a few tourist-friendly apps even before you travel. Two such apps are:

• MobiMatter: I cannot stress enough how amazing this turned out for us. It’s an eSim app that allows you to buy an esim for your phone which is valid throughout Europe. This means that firstly, you don’t need to buy a physical sim once you arrive in the country. Secondly, the sim works throughout all the European countries seamlessly. Thirdly, the prices are very reasonable. We got an eSim for $13 with 10GB data valid for 30 days. You simply need to download the app, choose your destination(s), choose your package according to your usage preference, and activate the eSim!
• Bolt: This is the Uber of Baltics and is very reasonably priced, convenient, and easy to use. While we preferred to walk around, some destinations are a bit further away, and I wasn’t very comfortable using the eBikes. However, even if you wish to use the eBikes, Bolt is the perfect app that will let you find the closest bikes and unlock to use them while you’re in the city. For others, like me, Bolt was perfect to book taxis when tired or when travelling long distances.

While you can easily spend more time, 1 week is enough for seeing the highlights in The Baltics, along with a few journeys into the countryside to take a break from the hustle & bustle. As usual, my itineraries are action-packed, allowing one to cover the most in a short period of time. Here are my recommendations on how to explore The Baltic States in 1 week.

2 days in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn has one of the best connectivity with international airlines out of the 3 countries which is why we flew into Estonia at the beginning our journey while exploring The Baltic States in 1 week. Tallinn also happens to be the most popular city amongst them all. We spent 2 beautiful days exploring Tallinn and the surrounding areas – sparing the second day to immerse ourselves into the Estonian forests.

Click here to read about my itinerary for 2 days in Tallinn, Estonia .

2 days in Riga, Latvia

From Tallinn, we took the LuxExpress bus to Riga in Latvia, which was about 4.5 hours by road. You can even choose to rent a car for this itinerary, but we always find it expensive to pick a car in one city and return in another due to the 1-way fee that is charged. Also, since these countries have excellent public transportation & facilities, we decided to skip renting a car, which is our usual mode of transportation on most of our trips.

Day 1 in Riga: Riga Old Town

While Tallinn’s old town was charming & cosy, Riga’s old town was grand & impressive! Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and iconic landmarks, the best place to start exploring is The Town Hall Square or Rathausplatz , home to some key destinations such as the House of the Blackheads, St. Peter’s Church, and Riga Cathedral . One thing you’ll notice in Riga is the number of churches & cathedrals, there’s one in almost every corner!

The Riga Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is one of the largest medieval churches in the Baltic States, holding significant historical and religious importance. The interior of Riga Cathedral is equally impressive, so I recommend buying the ticket to go inside. The cathedral’s chapels contain numerous historical artifacts, religious artworks, and tombs of notable figures from Latvia’s history.

St. Peter’s Church is another prominent and historically significant church in Riga. Climb to the observation deck on top of the tower to enjoy breathtaking views of the Old Town. Finally, visit The House of the Blackheads which was originally constructed in the 14th century as a meeting place and residence for the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, a guild of unmarried merchants, shipowners, and other professionals in Riga. Not only is the building’s architecture a fine example of Dutch Renaissance style, the museum inside is a great way to learn about the history of the building, its complete destruction during WW II & subsequent reconstruction, and the Brotherhood of the Blackheads.

To enjoy some tranquillity, take a stroll in The Riga Esplanade , a prominent park located in the heart of the city. The park’s well-manicured lawns, tree-lined pathways, flowerbeds, and benches, make it a serene and inviting atmosphere both for people-watching and relaxing. Also, it is located next to Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, the largest orthodox cathedral in the city, with an interesting and iconic architecture that stands out from most other buildings in its vicinity.

From here, walk across the canal to the Freedom Monument, a symbol of Latvia’s independence, national pride, and the country’s struggle for freedom and self-determination. This area is a pedestrian street, offering instagrammable areas with a ‘RIGA’ installation & several cafes and bars with an great vibe and amazing nightlife.

Lastly, explore the Art Nouveau architecture along Alberta Street and Elizabetes Street to see some of the most stunning examples of this architectural style in the city. The facades of the buildings on these streets are adorned with intricate sculptures, ornate balconies, and decorative motifs, which are characteristic of the Art Nouveau style. The beautifully crafted facades, elaborate decorative elements, and sculptural ornamentation reflect the opulence and creative spirit of the Art Nouveau movement, making these areas an architecture lovers’ delight to explore!

Recommended place to stay in Riga Old Town: Hotel Valdemars Riga managed by Accor

Day 2 in Riga: Day trip to Sigulda

While many people choose to go to Jūrmala, a popular resort town along the Baltic Sea coast which isn’t too far from Riga, to enjoy a relaxing day by the sea, we decided to head in the other direction to a town called Sigulda, as we wanted to head into the greenery and enjoy some nature walks. A picturesque town located in the Gauja River Valley, Sigulda is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Latvia” due to its stunning landscapes and hilly terrain. While you can rent a car and drive about an hour from Riga to Sigulda, we took a bus which was equally easily available.

We started our exploration from the most popular place to visit in Sigulda – the Sigulda Castle complex which has the Castle of the Lavonia Order (told castle ruins) and Sigulda New Castle. The old castle dates to the 13th century and was once a residence for the Livonian Order. The castle was originally designed as a fortified stone castle with defensive walls and towers. Over the centuries, it underwent various renovations and expansions. The castle is strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the Gauja River Valley, offering commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

From here, a 10-minute walk will bring you to the Sigulda cable car station from where you can take a scenic cable car journey across the Gauja River towards Krimulda, with breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive in Krimulda, visit Krimulda Castle & Manor. The manor was closed due to a wedding when we visited but we decided to sit outside in the cosy local restaurant to enjoy some local wine while we were in the area. The Krimulda Castle today is mostly just ruins of what was once a fortified stone castle with defensive walls, towers, and living quarters. It was strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the Gauja River Valley, providing an advantageous position for defense.

There is a very nice walking trail from Krimulda castle, via Gutmanis Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltics, shrouded in local folklore and legends, believed to have healing properties. The walls of the cave are adorned with inscriptions and carvings left by visitors throughout the centuries. You will eventually arrive at Turaida Castle , another one of the most iconic landmarks in Sigulda. This medieval castle, dating back to the 13th century, is perched on a hilltop and offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore the castle’s towers, walls, and exhibition halls to learn about its rich history.

Be prepared to walk through some hilly terrain and greenery. While the hike isn’t difficult, it can be very long, so good shoes are highly recommended. Alternatively, if you don’t wish to walk, then you can choose to take a bus from Krimulda cable car station to Turaida Castle (or back). However, the cave can only be visited on foot. Once you’ve explored this area, take the cable car back to Sigulda.

If you’re visiting Sigulda in the winter or summer months and have a huge appetite for adventure and adrenaline pumping activities, visit the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track , where you can experience a bobsleigh ride on a professional track. Unfortunately, during the shoulder spring & autumn months, the track is closed for maintenance, so we missed it. However, when we saw some YouTube videos of the experience, we were so upset to have missed it because it looked absolutely amazing!

Lastly, if time allows, visit the Zilver winery, where you can taste some fruity local wines of Latvia and buy them as souvenirs to take home with you. Most Latvian wines are made from berries rather than grapes so its not uncommon to find flavors such as black current, red currant, apple, rhubarb, etc. Latvian wines aren’t necessarily popular, but their flavours are unique & quite interesting so give it a shot!

At the end of the evening, return to Riga.

2 days in Klaipeda, Lithuania

From Riga, we took a bus to Klaipeda in Lithuania, which is a 4.5-hour journey. While Klaipeda is a more popular stop for cruises, we decided to visit there because I had read a lot about the Curonian Spit which is close to Klaipeda. While in the bus from Riga, many locals seemed surprised with our choice to visit this laidback, small town and asked us about the reason for our decision to visit such a ‘boring place’. After spending 2 days there, I understand why they felt the way they did – when compared to larger cities such as Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius, Klaipeda doesn’t have a lot to see and do. Having said that, it’s still a quiet, serene, cozy, and interesting town and I do not regret our decision of going there.

Day 1: Klaipeda Old Town

Klaipeda is small and totally walkable. The Old Town begins and ends even before you know it! Klaipėda has a rich maritime history, and its location on the Baltic Sea has made it a significant port city for centuries. At the center of the Old Town, you will find the city’s most famous landmark, the “ Annchen von Tharau ” sculpture, which represents a fictional character from a popular 17th-century German poem. Several restaurants and cafes on both sides of the canal offer a great vibe, drinks and food. The Friedrich Passage, a historic building complex that has been transformed into a shopping and entertainment centre, is yet another interesting place to explore as it offers a blend of history, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

End your day with drinks and dinner at the famous Meridianas, a restaurant on a docked sailing ship in the heart of the Old Town. While it might seem like a very cliché thing to do in Klaipeda, I personally liked the food and the ambience in this restaurant.

Recommend hotel to stay in Klaipeda Old Town: TILTŲ NAMAI Self Check-in Apartments

Day 2: Day trip to Curonian Spit

Curonian Spit is the name of the thin strip of land surrounded by the ocean, located 10-min by a ferry boat from Klaipeda. During summer, many people head to the popular sandy beaches here but when we travelled during spring, it was still too cold to swim and it was raining on the day we arrived here, which made it impossible to sunbathe too. The ferry to Curonian Spit departs from Klaipėda Old Ferry Terminal, which is in the city center, close to the Old Town. In 10 min, you will reach across to a town called Smiltyne, from where you can board a direct bus (N1) to Nida, with a stop at Hill of Witches in a town called Juodkrantė. From Smiltyne to Juodkrantė, it is about 25 minutes.

The Hill of Witches is essentially an open-air art gallery featuring a collection of wooden sculptures and installations that depict characters from Lithuanian mythology, fairy tales, and legends. The sculptures are carved from oak and are the work of local artists. The sculptures are arranged along a thematic path, winding through a forested area. As you walk along the path, you will encounter various characters and scenes that are steeped in Lithuanian folklore and storytelling. Some sculptures depict witches, wizards, mythical creatures, and legendary figures, while others illustrate famous Lithuanian fairy tales and stories. This 2-hour journey through the forest, where you can choose to take anyone of the paths within the lush and peaceful forests of the Curonian Spit, adds to the magical and mysterious ambiance of the place.

From here, you can board the same bus (N1) for another 20-min journey towards Nida . There are 3 keys places of interest in the largest town of Curonian Spit, which also shares a border with a Russian city called Kaliningrad. Parnidis Dune is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nida, offering panoramic views of the Curonian Lagoon, the Baltic Sea, and the surrounding landscapes. Climbing the dune and watching the sunset from its summit is a popular activity. Nida Art Colony is a creative hub where artists, writers, and researchers come together for residencies and art projects. Nida Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil seaside atmosphere. You can have a nice meal either at the little hidden restaurant on the way to the beach or one of the restaurants located in the quiet Nida town center area. Curonian Spit’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and artistic spirit makes it a great destination to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse yourself in the tranquil nature. In the evening, return to Klaipeda Old Town via ferry from Smiltyne.

2 days in Vilnius, Lithuania

The last city of our trip to the Baltic States in 1 week was Vilnius. Almost a 4-hour journey by bus from Klaipeda, Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is one of the oldest and most charming cities in Eastern Europe. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, a well-preserved historic center, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Day 1: Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius’ Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Europe. Typical to most of Europe, you will see narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and an array of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. Start your exploration with The Gate of Dawn , one of the most important gates of the original city fortifications, renowned for its religious significance and the miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary enshrined within. The painting depicts the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child. It is believed to possess healing powers and has been associated with numerous miracles throughout history. The painting has attracted pilgrims and visitors seeking blessings and spiritual guidance.

The heart of Vilnius is Cathedral Square , where you can find Vilnius Cathedral, the bell tower, and the Gediminas’ Tower. The square serves as a central meeting point and a venue for various events and festivals. Next to the Vilnius Cathedral, you will also find Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania , a political, diplomatic, administrative, and cultural center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania during the 15 th – 17 th centuries, and home to the National Museum today. The architecture you see today dates to the 21 st century as the palace was unfortunately destroyed completely by multiple fires and invasions throughout its history.

I highly recommend taking a ticket to climb to the top of the Bell Tower. Also known as the Belfry of Vilnius Cathedral, it is a prominent architectural symbol of the city and an important historical monument. The Vilnius Bell Tower dates to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest surviving structures in Vilnius. It was originally constructed as part of the city’s defensive fortifications. The bells go off every hour so if you’re in the observation deck during that time, it is quite exciting to see four massive bells swinging from one side to another as they mark the hour. Not only that, while the observation deck at the top is not open-air, it offers breathtaking views of the city’s picturesque rooftops and historic landmarks through several windows.

From here, walk to Three Crosses Hill, a prominent historical and cultural landmark that dates back to the 17th century. It is said that three wooden crosses were erected on the hill in memory of three Christian monks who were martyred at the site in the 14th century. The original wooden crosses were repeatedly destroyed over the centuries due to wars, fires, and weather. Each time, the crosses were reconstructed in honor of the monks and as symbols of Christian faith and resilience. The Three Crosses Hill is often considered a symbol of freedom and the resilience of the Lithuanian people. It serves as a reminder of Lithuania’s struggle for independence and its determination to preserve its cultural and religious heritage. The hilltop location of the Three Crosses offers stunning panoramic views of Vilnius, including its historic Old Town, the Neris River, and the modern cityscape. Located in Kalnai Park, a beautiful green space that provides an escape from the urban hustle and bustle, it is also a popular spot to relax, have picnics, and enjoy the views.

On the opposite side of the Old Town, there are two interesting sites to visit, whether you find the time on your first day or the second one. Separated from the Old Town by the Vilnelė River, Užupis is a bohemian art district and one of the quirkiest neighbourhoods in the city. A self-proclaimed free republic, Užupis has a bunch of cute and cool places to visit – starting from the Mermaid of Užupis hidden in a wall on the riverbank under the bridge that crosses over from the Old Town. Right next to it is also where you’ll find a colorful swing that hangs directly under the Bridge of Užupis and over the middle of the River Vilnia. Covered in dream catchers, it’s not uncommon to see young couples romanticizing on the swing. Just a quick walk will bring you to two highchairs in the middle of the river , where you could just sit & enjoy a cup of coffee or read a book. It’s a beautiful photo spot! Then, visit The Art Incubator , a cute building which is also a shop where you can buy all sorts of Užupis souvenirs.

Explore the rear of the Art Incubator or stroll through the courtyards and streets of Užupis to discover an array of captivating street art. End your evening at the Central Square of Užupis , where you’ll also find Bronze Angel of Užupis. Offering a relaxed vibe and some very cool cafes and bars, this is a great place to spend some time away from the busier part of the city. 

Recommended hotel to stay in Vilnius Old Town: Silvija House

Day 2: Day trip to Trakai Castle

We took a bus from Vilnius to the town of Trakai. From here, there’s a 15 min walk to the Island Castle, a stunning medieval fortress which is one of the most iconic and well-preserved castles in the country. As you walk, you will see several parks next to the lake on both sides of the road, as well as cafes overlooking the lake. On reaching the island, you will find a very lively scene on the lakeshore before crossing the wooden footbridge over to the castle.

Trakai Castle was built in the 14th century by the Grand Duke of Lithuania, Kęstutis, as a defensive fortress and a residence for the Lithuanian rulers. It served as an important center of political and military power during the time of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Trakai Castle is an impressive example of Gothic architecture, with its red brick walls, defensive towers, and crenelated battlements. The castle underwent several reconstructions over the centuries, with some elements reflecting Renaissance and Baroque influences. Today, Trakai Castle serves as a museum, offering visitors insights into the history of Lithuania and the life of its rulers during the medieval period. The museum displays various artifacts, exhibits, and historical documents.

The castle’s island location offers breathtaking views of Lake Galvė and the surrounding natural landscape. The picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for photography and enjoying the serene atmosphere. We loved taking a 45-min boat ride on the lake which gave us excellent views of the castle from different angles. Thereafter, you can enjoy a drink & meal at one of the restaurants overlooking the island castle.

This is a very relaxed day trip from Vilnius where you can choose to spend a day just sitting across the lake, enjoying a stroll through nature & just soaking in the tranquil environment.

In the evening, return to Vilnius.

Riga cathedral is overrated and definitely not worth buying a ticket for… there are so many prettier cathedrals all over Europe accessible for free

ASHOK PURANCHAND KHANNA

I would like to enjoy a 1 week holiday with my family starting either with Vilnius or Talinn and covering all the 3 Baltic countries end April/early May 2025.Should we fly to either of these cities and join group tours for day trips?

Medha Verma

Hello Ashok, 1 week is a bit short for all 3 countries but I guess you would only want to visit the capitals then? You could join group tours for day trips as it will be faster to cover them all and maybe more convenient than taking the public buses!

Tallinn 2d itinerary link don’t open..why not include it here

Hello Rajat, I have just checked and the link is working fine! Please have a look once again

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11 Awesome Reasons You Must Visit The Baltic States

Boring, the Baltic states? At first glance, the three countries lining up the Baltic Sea to the East – Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania – may not seem like the most obvious or exciting of European destinations… but they have a lot more to offer than you probably think. In fact, they may just be among the best places to backpack in Europe . Whether you’re an adventurer , culture vulture, beach bum , or food enthusiast, there’s something for you in one of those small but-vibrant countries.

I personally fell in love with the Baltic states after deciding to go on a whim, and I developed such a crush on them that I convinced my parents to return with me the following summer!

So before you get your yawns out or swipe left, check out those top 11 reasons you should visit the Baltic states ASAP.

View Contents

1) The Baltic States Are Young And Dynamic

If you’re picturing dull, sleepy lands filled with old people singing Soviet chants in traditional dress, think again! Maybe it’s because they only regained their independence in the 1990s and are still trying to define themselves as free modern nations, but there’s a strong wind of cool blowing through the Baltics. Urban transformation, alternative culture, arts, festivals, entrepreneurship… there’s a lot going on, and the population is strikingly youthful.

Case in point: Estonia has been emerging as one of the world’s most connected countries and a hub for technological innovation. Did you know it gave us one of travellers’ best friends, Skype? Oh, and even the Estonian Prime Minister is only 36 – a toddler by political standards!

But really, nowhere is the energy more palpable than in Vilnius: the Lithuanian capital’s streets bustle with students and young people. Join them at a café and soak up the atmosphere.

2) They’re Cheap And Easy To Travel (Both To And Within)

All hail the travel gods for the gift of low-cost airlines! With the proliferation of cheap flights from most European cities, a Baltic break is almost as accessible as a weekend in your country home. Once there, the manageable distances and networks of comfy, affordable buses make roaming the Baltic states a very easy and budget-friendly affair. In fact, GoEuro ranked Latvia the world’s 7 th cheapest country to travel in. And that doesn’t mean you can’t move in style: even the “economy” buses are equipped with reclining seats, free wifi, and individual entertainment screens – luxury !

Of course, it’s not just the transport: food and accommodation follow Eastern European prices, so you’re getting a lot for your money.

3) They’ve Not Been Invaded Yet (At Least By Tourists!)

Okay, so they may have been occupied by Denmark, Germany, Russia, Sweden, and Poland over the centuries, but today the Baltic states are relatively overlooked by travellers. Actually, most people don’t know the first thing about them, let alone have been – which in our days of travel-everywhere-all-the-time is kinda refreshing!

The locals are still happy to introduce you to their wonderful little countries, and will proudly and gratefully ask what brought you to them (at which point you can of course mention this blog post ?).

4) The Colourful Old Towns

You know what’s likely to put a smile on your face? Wandering the quaint streets of a fairytale-like historic centre straight out of a picture book! And in that respect, the Baltic states deliver: the UNESCO-listed medieval towns of Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn compete for attention with their paved alleyways, fortress walls, bright buildings, cellar restaurants, and terraced bars.

Grinning yet?

5) Their Rich, Multicultural History

The aforementioned waves of invasions have shaped those strategic nations into a melting-pot of cultural influences. If point 1 above left you thinking “damn, I’d love to watch people sing in traditional costume”, rest assured you’ll have plenty of opportunities! Check the events calendar and try to time your visit to coincide with one of the ethnic festivals.

But the Germanic, Russian, and Nordic forays have also left their marks on the native pagan cultures, contributing to the diversity of religions and architecture. This means that beyond the cutesy medieval towns, you’ll also find superb castles, colourful wooden houses, cake-like Orthodox cathedrals, and elaborate Art Nouveau districts.

6) Yummy Food And Brews!

You know what else this diversity means? A wide range of delish culinary specialties!

Soups are a particular strength, and they are best accompanied by the ubiquitous rye bread and sour cream. In the summer, it is hard to resist cold soup, a pink concoction made of beet, dill, small cucumber cubes, and slices of boiled egg. Other winners include the hearty Latvian national dish, grey peas and bacon, Polish-inspired ravioli, pearl barley risotto, Lithuanian cepelinai potato-based dumplings, and all types of German-inspired meats.

You can wash down these delicacies with traditional local beers or ciders, a glass of Riga champagne…or even one of the countries’ (in)famous spirits: Lithuania’s Krupnikas, Latvia’s Balsam liqueur, or Estonia’s Old Tallinn. Cheers!

7) They Make Perfect Summer Destinations

Six words: pleasant temperatures and less-crowded beaches ! While your friends are fighting for towel space in a Mediterranean tourist hotspot, and slowly turning lobster from the 35+°C-strong sun, you could be enjoying the relaxed beaches and milder temperatures (usually in the high 20s) of the Baltic states.

Whether you choose Jurmala in Latvia, Palanga in Lithuania, or Pärnu in Estonia , it’s easy to weave a side trip to one (or all!) of the fine sand beaches in the region into your itinerary. You’ll be mainly hangin’ with locals and their Finnish neighbours. In August, party with them at the Pärnu Weekend Festival Baltics (headlined by big names!) or the Karkle Live Music Beach Festival.

But fear not: if you can only visit in winter or in shoulder season, you’ll be happy to know that each Baltic state has its own sauna and spa tradition. (That’s a good excuse to try it everywhere to compare!) There are also skiing opportunities in every country. And those beaches? This is what they look like when they freeze over in winter:

Not bad, Baltic states, not bad!

8) Europe’s Most Underrated Adventure Destination Is In Latvia

And it’s called Sigulda ! This little town on the banks of the Gauja River is the gateway to Latvia’s largest national park. Rent a bike, a kayak, or use your own two feet to get lost in this hilly hinterland sprinkled with castles and caves. Even better: bring a tent and make it a multi-day trip.

Looking for something a little more extreme? Your only problem will be choosing among the plethora of options: in Sigulda, you can test your Tarzan skills on a tree-top adventure course, free-fly in the first vertical wind tunnel in Eastern Europe, learn to throw axes and spears in a medieval castle, bungee-jump from 42m over the river, or ride a bobsleigh down an Olympic track for a mere €10.

9) You’ll Be Awed By The Awesome Nature

Good news, nature-lovers: there’s plenty of wilderness beside the Gauja National Park in the Baltic states! In Lithuania, get wowed by the Curanian Spit, a stretch of forests and Sahara-like sand dunes bordering a lagoon (are you wanderlusting yet?).

Meanwhile, in Estonia you can explore the Sooma National Park on bog shoes – a type of snow shoes for wetland environments, and a typical local pastime.

10) You Can Visit An Abandoned Soviet-Era Prison In Estonia…

…and relive the Cold War, and be mock-sent to Siberia, and… The list goes on. If it’s the bizarre and alternative you’re looking for, jackpot again! The Baltic states offer an impressive number of opportunities for dark and weird tourism.

For €2, you’ll get into Tallinn’s Patarei prison, where you can roam the precincts – from the chilling “hanging room” to the dreary “infirmary” – freely. Yes, it’s just as creepy and surreal as it sounds; in fact, this is one visit you may want to enroll a few friends for!

Just as arresting is Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site where fervent believers have stacked up giant crosses over the years. Want more? Lithuania’s black-humoured Grutas Park is a sort of anti-theme park built to resemble a concentration camp that showcases the grimmest aspects of Soviet ideology.

Meanwhile, if you’re keen to learn more about the KGB’s spying techniques, you’ll find an interactive museum dedicated to just that in each capital.

11) You Can Peek Into Finland

If you have the time and budget to spare, how about making this a 4-for-3 deal with a side trip to Helsinki? The Finnish capital is only a short and cheap ferry crossing away, so hop on a boat and round off your journey with a Nordic experience!

Where To Stay in the Baltic States

Websites like Booking.com allow you to book many good-value, affordable hotels and hostels in the Baltic states, as well as one of my favourite alternatives: serviced apartments right in the center of the capitals’ old towns!

Here are some of my highlights that come personally tested and recommended:

In Lithuania

As its name suggests, the Novotel Vilnius Centre is a great modern choice bang in the centre of Vilnius. Housed in a historical building, it’s the best of both worlds: at once charming and convenient!

Some of the rooms on the upper floors have stunning panoramic views of the city.

This one is for history and luxury lovers! If you want to feel like royalty in the heart of Old Riga, Hotel Gutenbergs is your go-to. Located in 17th and 19th century buildings, this 4-star hotel with an affordble price tag was renovated in 2015 and combines a cosy atmosphere and comfy furniture with the grandeur of period features, arts, and antiques.

Plus, it’s right in the middle of the action!

Consistently rated as of the best-value options in Sigulda, the Livonija is a lovely guesthouse a 5-10 minutes’ walk from the center that offers single, double, and triple rooms starting around 20 euros.

The sauna, quiet garden, and opulent buffet breakfast – salmon sashimi, Latvian chocolate cake anyone? – make the Livonija guesthouse a winner.

How about having your own temporary home in Old Tallinn? Delta Apartments offer a number of serviced apartments of different sizes on some of the Estonian capital’s most-prized streets. My parents and I stayed in an impeccable Old Town Deluxe apartment (at the link above) for around 100 euros per night – if your party is smaller or bigger, browse the website to see all the options, including studios and family apartments. ————————

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Have you been to the Baltic states? What is/would be your top reason to visit? I love chatting with you, so let me know in a comment below! 🙂

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Want to read more about the Baltic states? Check out these articles: 24 Hours In Pärnu, The Summer Capital Of Estonia Sigulda, Europe’s Undiscovered Adventure Playground 5 Addictive Latvian Food Dishes You Have To Try

Hey, I'm Camille! I quit my life to travel the world in 2013 – and I haven’t stopped since! I have visited 40+ countries as a location-independent travel/lifestyle writer and digital marketer. I like hammocks, scooters, eating, and scaring my mother trying adventure sports! I was chosen as a top travel influencer by Influence.co, and have co-founded Helipad Marketing to help travel & lifestyle brands soar with killer online marketing.

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I would include Baltic sauna attendance as 12th reason (different from Finnish sauna). Sauna is getting very 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! 🙂

Good point, I agree that’s another draw to the region! Thanks for the addition. 🙂

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Baltic States , Europe · 1 February 2024

9 Days in the Baltic States: A Complete Travel Guide

Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia sit in the region of Europe known as the Baltic States. Of which we believe is one of the continents most underrated & overlooked regions. Each of these countries has it’s own story to tell, yet they all share a unique history.

We spent 9 days exploring the Baltic States, as our gateway into Northern Europe & fell head over heels in love with the region. In this guide we are going to walk you through exactly how you can make the most of your time in the Baltics, with all the best things to do & see along the way. For those of you like us & travelling on a budget, You’ll be glad to know that the Baltics are super budget friendly, in fact they’re some of the cheapest countries we’ve travelled to in Europe.

Disclaimer:  This post may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By doing so, you are supporting our blog and helping us to continue writing free travel guides for you, thank you for your continued support .

Things to know before travelling to the Baltic States

In all of the Baltic States the currency is Euros, & card is widely used. It would also be wise to carry small change for things such as public transport. The Baltic States are mostly welcoming countries & although the people may appear cold on the exterior, once you get chatting with them they can be really friendly. The native languages of the Baltic States are Lithuanian, Latvian & Estonian, however Russian is also widely spoken as well as English.

When is best to visit the Baltic States?

This part of Europe is an all year round destination. We chose to visit in Winter (November) which made for a pretty magical time with plenty of snow & festive magic in the air. Visiting in Summer also has it’s benefits, with longer days & the opportunity to head out exploring the Baltic coastline.

Travelling in off-season is our general rule for most of our adventures, this is when prices are lower & crowds fewer. Luckily the Baltic States haven’t been hugely affected by mass tourism yet, unlike other European countries. So you will likely be able to visit with little to no crowds any time of year. However, you will definitely be able to find cheaper flights & accomodation in those shoulder months (outside of summer).

How to travel in & between the Baltic States

Connections between Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia are easy to navigate & find. We travelled with Interrail passes , which were super handy for travelling on the trains throughout the Baltics. However please note that as now (January 2024), there are no inter-country trains between Latvia & Estonia. There is however a new train route that connects Vilnius in Lithuania to Riga in Latvia. This train route wasn’t available when we visited, but has since been put in place as of December 2023.

To travel from Riga – Tallinn in Estonia you will need to purchase a bus ticket. We travelled with FlixBus , the journey was smooth & very cheap at only 8 Euro per person for a 4.5 hour journey.

Day 1-3: Vilnius, Lithuania

Starting your Baltic States adventure in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, will give you a real taste of Lithuania as a whole even in just a few days. It is a small city that is super walkable. Moreover, after flying into Vilnius we experienced one of the easiest transfers from the airport to the city, that we have ever had. There is an airport bus located directly outside of the terminal, which will cost only 1 Euro (in cash) per person.

Where to stay in Vilnius?

There are plenty of budget options available in Vilnius starting from around £15 per night in hostels & upwards of £30 per night in a 3/4 star hotel. Which is a brilliant price for Europe. We chose to stay in an Airbnb as we found them to have more value than a hotel room, as we would get our own space with a kitchen too. Often Airbnb’s work out to be a lot cheaper when you factor in the fact that you’ll be able to cook all your own meals here.

You can find the exact Airbnb that we stayed in here . We will say that it wasn’t the best Airbnb we have ever stayed in, but for the price (£114 for 3 nights) it did the job that we needed it to. The location was also very central, around a 5 minute walk to the Old Town & Lidl was just around the corner.

Top 5 things to do in Vilnius

1. Explore the Old Town – Vilnius Old Town is beautiful & quaint. A stroll down it’s cobbled stoned streets will leave you feeling as though you’ve stepped back into a time gone by. Dotted with adorable churches & multi coloured buildings, the Old Town is certainly picturesque & a great place to take photos.

Make sure to stop by the Gates of Dawn . This is one of the gateways to the Old Town, the Gates of Dawn is also an important religious & historical monument for the Lithuanian people. The Old Town is full of pretty streets to admire, some of our favourites include: Pilies Street (picture perfect views of Gediminas tower from here) & Stikliu gatve .

2. Visit Gediminas Tower – From Pilies Street you’ll be able to spot the Gediminas Tower, it is an easy 10 minute walk up the hill to reach the tower & you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across the city. If you don’t fancy walking it, you can also take the funicular to the top, that only costs 2 Euros each way. The Gediminas tower is the remaining tower of the fortress that once stood here. The tower is iconic to Lithuanian’s as it featured on their former currency & is mentioned in folklore as well as art.

3. Museum of Occupations & Freedom Fights – This is a must on a visit to Vilnius. The museum walks you through the occupations of Lithuania from the Germans to the more recent Soviet occupation. It is a great way to get an inside look of Lithuania’s history & understand more about the struggles that the Baltic region has faced in the not so distant past. At the museum there is also an ex KGB prison, it was fascinating yet heart breaking to learn more about Lithuania’s dark history during the Soviet era. (Entry is 6 Euros per person) .

4. Uzupis Micronation – Yep you read that right. Vilnius has it’s very own micronation in the heart of the city. Uzupis was once the cities poorest area, but after Lithuania’s independence in 1991, it became a republic. Attracting artists, creatives & those living a more bohemian lifestyle to come enjoy & live in the micronation. The tiny republic has it’s own anthem, constitution, president & bishop.

If you enjoy the quirky side to life then you will love Uzupis. Take a walk around the streets, that are lined with cafe’s & independent shops. Make sure you also stop by & read the consitution that is written on silver plaques along Paupio gatve. Uzupis has some very funny rules. Whilst you are in the neighbourhood stop by ‘Spunka Pub’ a cosy bar offering delicious craft beers for affordable prices, the atmosphere in here is lovely.

5. Take a day trip to Trakai Castle – The town of Trakai is situated 28km outside of Vilnius & easily reached via train from the city centre. The train will cost you 2 Euros each way (or free with an Interrail pass) & it will take approximately 30 minutes to reach Trakai. Once you have arrived, it is an easy & relatively flat 25 minute walk to the spectacular Trakai castle.

Trakai castle is a 15th century fortress, situated rather uniquely on an island in one of Europe’s deepest lakes, Lake Glave. The castle is also the only one in Eastern Europe of it’s kind, to be located on an island. As you approach the castle you’ll be greeted by a stunning walkway bridge, this is the perfect opportunity for a photo! & if you have a drone, make sure you bring it with you, as this spot is brilliant for it.

You could easily spend a couple of hours here, walking around the grounds & taking it all in. There is a museum inside the castle also, that costs 8 Euros per person. Just across the water from the castle there are also small souvenir shops & a café to sit back & enjoy the view from.

Day 3-6: Riga, Latvia

Riga has gained popularity over the last few years, especially with people visiting on stag & hen do’s. However, the city is still as charming as ever & definitely hasn’t fallen victim to this crowd, the same way places like Prague have. As we visited during the winter months, Riga was very quiet & our favourite activity became wandering the frozen streets at night, it was simply magic!

Where to stay in Riga?

Again, much like Vilnius there is accomodation to suit every budget. With hostels, hotels & Airbnb’s at your disposal. We would suggest finding a place that is located close by to the Old Town as this is the central district & closest area to most attractions/things to do, as well as the all important bus & train station.

We stayed in a beautiful Airbnb on the doorstep to the old town & within close walking distant to the stations. It surprisingly only cost £107 for 3 nights . The building was also super secure & it felt really safe. You can find the exact Airbnb we stayed in here.

Top 5 things to do in Riga

1. Explore the Old Town – This is the historic and cultural heart of Riga, the capital city of Latvia. Situated on the banks of the Daugava River, Riga Old Town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, & vibrant atmosphere. Some spots that you shouldn’t miss include: The Freedom Monument, Three Brothers, House of the Blackheads, Kramu iela, St Peter’s Church & Dome Square.

2. Grab Lunch at Riga Central Market – The market is Europe’s largest & is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Old Town. The building is made up of five pavilions, that have been constructed from hangers. Inside the market you will find a bazaar of treats to get stuck into, as well as supermarkets & convenience stores. We highly recommend that you try some Latvian sugar donuts, that were only 30 cents a piece & seriously delicious.

3. Kramu iela & Dome Square – This was our favourite section of Old Riga, Kramu iela is a beautiful street that is best photographed at night (in our opinion, see photo below). & Dome Square is just around the corner from here, with Riga Cathedral as it’s centre piece, the square is super picturesque, again especially at night time.

4. Three Brothers Building & House of the Blackheads – Both of these landmarks are iconic to Riga. The Three Brothers is a row of three buildings that form the oldest dwelling complex in Riga. It is a popular spot for photographers & is a must see on any visit to Riga. House of the Blackheads is a 15th century, ornate building located in the heart of the Old Town. Outside is also the site of where the ‘First Public Christmas Tree’ was said to have been erected.

5. Take a day trip out to Sigulda – Located approximately 50km outside of Sigulda, the town is nestled in the foothills of the Gauja National Park . We strongly recommend a day trip out here, it turned out to be one of our favourite places during our Baltic States expedition & we are about to tell you why.

You can easily reach the town of Sigulda via bus or train from Riga. Although, the buses leave more regularly from the central bus station than the trains do. The bus should only cost you around 2.80 Euros each way. If you get off the bus as you are approaching Turaida castle, you will be in the perfect position to explore the castle & surrounding national park.

Turaida Castle is an 11th century castle that sits on top of a hill, over looking the Gauja Valley. Entry into the castle complex is only 3.50 Euros per person. Make sure you climb up the tower for spectacular views & check out the onsite museum that walks you through the history of the castle, the Baltic States & surrounding area. Definitely make time to explore the grounds, as there is a church & wonderful views looking back onto the castle.

From the castle you can continue walking towards Gutmans Cave , another beauty spot in the area. It is a small cave located in a park, but is a great spot for some photos. From here, there are plenty of other walking routes to take, we chose to walk towards Paradise Hill Viewpoint , which turned out to be an insane spot to watch the sunset.

On your walk towards the viewpoint you will follow the Gauja River through the stunning Latvian wilderness, there are a couple steep sections & some mini viewpoints on the way, that look towards Turaida Castle. Then once you reach Paradise Hill Viewpoint you’ll be greeted by sweeping views across the valley, sunset is a great time to be here to catch the golden light reflecting off the trees.

The walk back towards the train/bus station from here is around 40 minutes, but is relatively flat.

TOP TIP: When visiting the Baltic States keep an eye out for a restaurant chain called ‘LIDO’ . They operate as a self serve restaurant serving traditional Baltic cuisine, for really affordable prices. We ate in LIDO on our visit to Riga & thoroughly enjoyed our meal, it was great to have a taste of the region.

Day 6-9: Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is most known as being the home of Europe’s best preserved medieval old town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk through Tallinn’s Old Town is like stepping back in time, with it’s narrow laneways & towering medieval church spires. A trip to Tallinn in winter, must include a visit to the Christmas Markets which are situated in the heart of the Old Town.

Where to stay in Tallinn?

Once again, Tallinn has some very affordable accomodation on offer. It would be ideal to book somewhere close by to the Old Town as you will likely spend most of your time here. However, if you do find yourself a little further away then luckily the public transport system is brilliant. The network of trams proved to be very handy & you can also access all public transport for free with a Tallinn Card.

Much like in the other Baltic States, we decided to stay in an Airbnb a little further out from the Old Town. There was a tram station right outside & the international bus station was right across the road, which was convenient when first arriving in Tallinn from Riga. You can find the exact Airbnb we stayed in here.

Top 5 things to do in Tallinn

1. Explore the Old Town – This corner of Tallinn is definitely the most enchanting. With narrow laneways, medieval fortress towers, viewpoints, orthodox churches, cosy bars/cafe’s & boutique shops. You could easily get lost here all day long & still be hungry for more. Make sure you walk through St Catherine’s Passage , one of Tallinn’s most picturesque cobble stoned street.

2. Kohtuotsa Viewpoint – This is one of the best viewpoints over the Old Town. From here you will be able to see across the burnt orange rooftops & out to the Baltic Sea. There is also a cute souvenir shop up here to have a look around in or purchase a memento to take home with you.

3. Walk along the Old Town walls – To access the city walls, use the entry to the Old Town via Viru Gate, from there you can walk along the walk from this point here. Entry to the city walls is 4 Euros per person or free with a Tallinn Card. Walking along the walls give you a unique perspective over the city & you’ll also get the opportunity to climb inside one of Tallinn’s many towers.

4. Grab lunch at Balti Jaama Turg Food Hall & a beer in a cosy bar – If you love food halls like us, then you have to visit Balti Jaama Turg on your visit to Tallinn. The food hall is located just outside of the Old Town & has a great selection of street food to choose from. We highly recommend that you stop by Kebaboom , the kebabs here are delicious!

Tallinn also has a great selection of local bars, whilst many of the bars you will walk past in the Old Town are geared towards tourists & therefore have higher prices. We managed to find a real hidden gem (literally, as it was a struggle to find), nestled in the back streets of the Old Town. It’s called Levist Valjas , the front door is very deceiving, but once inside you will find an edgy underground bar, with the cheapest beer in town!

5. Check out Proto Avastustehas – This is more of a rain or snow day activity, which is what it was for us, but ended up being pretty fun. Proto Avastustehas is an interactive museum designed to immerse you into the world of inventions through the medium of virtual reality. You’ll be able to try different virtual reality challenges/games, some of which we had never experienced before, such as flying.

Entry to the museum costs 14€ for adults (Tue-Fri) & 18€ (Sat-Sun). They also offer family tickets & student discount. If you have a Tallinn Card you will get free entry, which is the same for most museums/attractions in Tallinn, therefore the card is well worth purchasing.

The Baltic States are currently super underrated European destinations. We were shocked at how few tourists we came across in the entire 9 days that we spent here. It was a breath of fresh air in comparison to other destinations around Europe, where we are so used to seeing crowds of tourists. If you are thinking about visiting the Baltic States, then you should run not walk before they become more popular.

As always if you have any questions please leave them in the comments section or send us a message via Instagram & we’ll be sure to get back to you as soon as possible.

& if you enjoyed reading this, you might enjoy reading some of our other Europe articles.

Happy exploring 🙂

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“The places we visited were great. I would go on another trip if he's the guide.” Ralph ChintamanPrashad, traveled in June 2024

• Discover Warsaw's Old Town and Royal Palace
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• Visit Turaida Castle and stroll in Sigulda

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

• In-depth Cultural
• Explore medieval Tallinn's walls and churches
• Tour the Baroque Palace of Rundale and Trakai Castle
• Enjoy a panoramic tour of Berlin's historic sites

“The magic touch that made our experience better.” Devadason Robert Peter, traveled in August 2024

• Walking Adventure
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• Explore Helsinki's iconic landmarks
• Cruise from Helsinki to Tallinn
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“Excellent trip. The group is a fun bunch to roadtrip with.” Norhayati Binte Daud, traveled in July 2023

• Visit the mysterious Hill of Crosses faith monument
• Enjoy free days in Helsinki and Gdansk
• Enjoy locally-guided tours of Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Gdansk, Helsinki and Warsaw

• Tour the resort town of Parnu and forested North Estonia
• Discover Riga's Old Town and historical architecture
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“I loved the tour! Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn are three lovely cities.” PuiSuang Tan, traveled in July 2022

• Visit the grand Rundale Palace and its lush gardens
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“Blue skies the whole time. Very professional.” THOMAS SPARHAWK, traveled in April 2024

• Wander the old towns and ancient streets, medieval castles and magnificent palaces
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• See the European Bison in Bialowieza Park
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The three states although neighbors, carry a very different historic baggage, which is evident in the versatile and unique architecture. Besides the historic heritage, countries are also proud of its unspoiled nature. Check out ten sites that will take your breath away in the Baltic States.

10. AHHAA Science Centre, Tartu, Estonia

The biggest science center in the Baltic States invited anyone and everyone to learn and entertain. The visitors will be introduced to science as well as technology in an amusing way, therefore families with children are welcome.

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9. The Hill of Crosses, Lithuania

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8. Jurmala, Latvia

The ice blue water of the Baltic Sea might be the prettiest of all the three states. The resort town offers various entertainment and accommodation that can be found in town. However, the unpoiled nature is the main attraction.

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7. Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona, Latvia

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Witness this architectural wonder, which is the testament of purity and Christian faith.

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5. Cesis, Latvia

The Medieval town is famous for the castle, that has been built in the early 13th century by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Today the ruins of it is the main attraction besides the handful of other architectural landmarks.

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4. The Curonian Spit, Lithuania

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It is one of the most impressive and most popular natural wonders in the country.

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3. Tallinn, Estonia

Historic churches, cobblestone streets, palaces, museums and galleries – dive into the cultural world of Tallinn. It is a small capital, however it is packed with gorgeous sightseeing. It is also easy to navigate it.

One or two days will be enough to explore Tallinn – a great place to go for a romantic weekend. In summer the weather is mild, while in winter one could enjoy the Nordic snowy landscape.

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2. Riga, Latvia

The capital of Latvia has been influenced a lot by the German culture, therefore it is very different from Vilnius or Tallinn. The beautiful Old Town of Riga boasts a web of narrow streets and tall historic buildings. It is nice to get lost there and just to have refreshing stroll.

The visitors will find an abundance of great cafes and restaurants, that will make the trip nice and smooth.

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1. Vilnius, Lithuania

The beautiful capital boasts the Old Town protected by UNESCO. There are various hills, from where amazing views to the city open. The town is crowned with Gediminas Tower – the precious jewel from the Medieval times.

An abundance of architectural landmarks, cultural venues, restaurants, bars and cafes will provide the sites and entertainment you are looking for.

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The Baltic Holidays team are experts in travel to the Baltic States and you will benefit from over 20 years of experience and local knowledge to design and fulfill your visit to these truly fascinating countries. Chat with us about how to get the best private or group tour of the Baltic States tour for you. Don't be shy, we love a challenge!

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Choose one or a combination of private transfers, train travel, local bus, or self-drive - to suit you.

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Tell us your available dates and time and we will recommend an itinerary from a short break to a long in-depth tour.

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Join one of our handpicked group tours with excellent tour guides and like-minded travellers.

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All of the above matters - it helps us recommend or create the ideal tour for you. Email, message or call us now to start planning your travels.

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I wanted to drop you a line to say what a wonderful holiday we had in the Baltic area. Everything went exactly as planned and the guides were all excellent, knowledgeable and extremely friendly. The hotels were all well selected and close to the main sights and trips were very informative and covered a lot of ground. Thank you and your team for all your hard work making our trip so enjoyable.

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Booked the Christmas market group tour and everything was so well organised, the hotels lovely in a great location and the guides were amazing. Would not have a negative word to say.

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EXCELLENT, well BALANCED itinerary

In summary, we would like to add that we described our Scandinavian package as EXCELLENT, well BALANCED itinerary and especially the variety of hotels, means of transportation, guides, transfer which were all FLAWLESSLY arranged. After 35 days on the road, we had no desire to terminate the holiday.

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While Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn are the capital cities not to be missed on a trip to the Baltic States, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia have other charming and picturesque cities to explore in just a few hours or days. Let’s take a look.

Riga, Latvia, the architectural pearl of the Baltic

Set on the banks of the Daugava, this Latvian city, eight centuries old, has plenty to offer. Dynamic and cosmopolitan, this is one of Europe’s greenest capitals and a city with a wealth of architectural treasures. Stroll through its UNESCO-listed medieval old town and wander up and down its long avenues in search of the most beautiful and lavishly decorated Art Nouveau buildings .

Tallinn, Estonia, a Hanseatic treasure on the Baltic coast

Perched on a hill overlooking the Baltic, Estonia’s capital offers walkers a picturesque medieval town – with winding cobbled streets, colourful Hanseatic houses and perfectly designed ramparts – and a majestic upper town, where castles, opulent town houses, and cathedrals stand proudly in an atmosphere of rare serenity.

Vilnius, Lithuania, the Baroque capital of a hundred bell towers

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Cēsis, Latvia, a delightful medieval town in the heart of nature

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Klaipėda, Lithuania, the country’s oldest port city

On the Baltic coast, this dynamic Lithuanian port city has an enchanting array of cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and museums, which bear witness to the glorious past of the former capital of Prussia. There is no shortage of exceptional beaches and seascapes in the area.

Pärnu, Estonia, the most popular seaside resort in the Baltic States

This former Hanseatic city, now the country’s leading seaside resort, owes its success to its superb beach sheltered at the end of a bay and its old town centre dotted with colourful, picturesque villas. A must for any summer holiday in the Baltic States.

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Cultural Tours & Musical Holidays

The Baltic States

Vilnius, Lithuania

tbc nights from £ tbc per person

Trakai Castle, Lithuania

The three independent states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are close neighbours on the Baltic Coast and their history is inextricably linked, yet each nation has a remarkably distinct language, architecture and culture. Our new holiday combines a stay in each of the three capitals Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn, with visits to important historic sites in the countryside, including the royal palaces of Rundále and Jelgava, and the island fortress of Trakai. This is a fascinating insight into three of Europe’s most enigmatic yet alluring countries.

Tour Leader

Andrew allen.

Andrew Allen read History of Art at the University of East Anglia and undertook his postgraduate study at the University of Essex taking his MA in early Italian painting.

What's included

Return flights

Eight nights’ accommodation with breakfast

Five dinners

One wine tasting and lunch

All sightseeing, entrance fees and gratuities

Services of a Kirker Tour Lecturer and a local guide

Speak to a Lithuania specialist

Contact our expert team for first-hand advice and a tailor-made quotation.

Dominic Rossi

Reservations Manager

Hotel Details

This elegant Relais & Châteaux hotel is located in the historic old town and is the top hotel in Vilnius. It is located on Glass-blowers’ street, where the tradesmen’s workshops date from the 17th century.

Grand Palace

Riga, Latvia

Once the home of wealthy Baltic aristocrats, the Grand Palace is located just off Dom Square, within the pedestrian area and the historical centre. It provides guests with excellent, friendly service and has just 56 bedrooms.

Tallinn, Estonia

After three years of meticulous restoration, this 19th century former post office opened its doors in 2007 as the Telegraaf, the finest hotel in Tallinn. Located on the desirable Vene Street in the heart of the old town close to Town Hall Square, it is perfect for exploring the cobbled streets of ancient Tallinn.

Meet the Team

Learn more about Kirker's team of experts and read our latest destination reviews.

Managing Director

Reservations Consultant

Hannah Morris

Michael Brewin

William Blackburn

David White

Kirker Concierge

Barry Cheeseman

Cultural Tours Senior Executive

Marcus Freeman

Product Manager

Samuel Wolff

Thomas Brown

Katherine Wales

Pat Bellieni

Senior Reservations Consultant

Enrique Novella

Sarah Barton

Graphic Designer & Marketing Executive

Kathryn Irons

Team Leader and Senior Reservations Consultant

Lucy Ayling

Cultural Tours, Sales & Operations Executive

Andrew Layard

Product & Commercial Director

Ignacio Foley

Francesca Camplani

Patrick Millar

Senior Manager & Head of Marketing

Joshua Gibson

Casey Williams

Mark Harwood

Alice Boyle

Amanda Boccolini

Our expert reservations team regularly travel to a wide range of destinations to explore new cities, visit hotels and to research museums, galleries and restaurants so that we can offer the most up-to-date advice and recommendations.

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