
Estonia · Latvia · Lithuania
Baltic States - Panorama
Baltic States - Panorama
Duration
14 days
Start/End
Vilnius/Tallinn
Tour type
Group
Level
Easy
Accommodation
Hotels and a manor house
Overview
On this 14-day tour you experience not only Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and the Curonian Spit but also castles, manor houses and old trading towns. Add the unspoilt island of Saaremaa with the Sõrve peninsula, the island of Muhu with its open-air museum and the Gauja and Lahemaa national parks.
On this 14-day tour, you'll experience not only the highlights of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn, and the Curonian Spit, but also the unique landscapes, castles, and manor houses, as well as the picturesque trading towns of the Baltic region. The tour also includes the unspoiled Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island, the Sõrve Peninsula, the island of Muhu with its open-air museum and bread tasting, and the Gauja and Lahemaa National Parks. Two nights in Nida on the Curonian Spit and one night in a historic manor house complete the trip.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Germany – Vilnius
You're flying to Vilnius. From the airport, you'll take public transport to your hotel. Arrive relaxed and get ready for your trip. 2 nights in Vilnius.
Germany – Vilnius
Day 1
You're flying to Vilnius. From the airport, you'll take public transport to your hotel. Arrive relaxed and get ready for your trip. 2 nights in Vilnius.
Day 2
Vilnius
The program starts today. At 8:45 a.m., you will meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at reception. During an expert-led city tour, you will discover the impressive sights of the Lithuanian capital (a UNESCO World Heritage Site): the Gate of Dawn, the Gothic St. Anne's Church, a former city gate from the 16th century that is now a pilgrimage site, Pilies Street, one of the oldest and most beautiful streets in the city, and Vilnius University, one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe. Next, you'll explore the Užupis artists' quarter, home to a diverse range of artists and a hub for exhibitions and theatrical performances. What was once a poor suburb has transformed into one of the city's most expensive districts. The rest of the day is yours to explore Vilnius at your leisure. (F)
Vilnius
Day 2
The program starts today. At 8:45 a.m., you will meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at reception. During an expert-led city tour, you will discover the impressive sights of the Lithuanian capital (a UNESCO World Heritage Site): the Gate of Dawn, the Gothic St. Anne's Church, a former city gate from the 16th century that is now a pilgrimage site, Pilies Street, one of the oldest and most beautiful streets in the city, and Vilnius University, one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe. Next, you'll explore the Užupis artists' quarter, home to a diverse range of artists and a hub for exhibitions and theatrical performances. What was once a poor suburb has transformed into one of the city's most expensive districts. The rest of the day is yours to explore Vilnius at your leisure. (F)
Day 3
Vilnius – Trakai – Kaunas
Today you'll leave Vilnius for Kaunas. En route, you'll stop in Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. During a leisurely, approximately one-hour boat trip, you'll admire the famous red island castle from the water, dating back to the 14th century and picturesquely situated amidst a vast lake landscape. On board, you'll enjoy a light snack of the local specialty, Kibinai: crescent-shaped dumplings with a meat or vegetarian filling, traditionally served with broth. The journey continues to Kaunas. Upon arrival, a guided tour will take you through the charming old town of Lithuania's second-largest city: the Town Hall Square with its 15th- and 16th-century merchants' houses, the 13th-century castle ruins, the Gothic Perkunas House with its magnificent decorative gables, and the Vytautas Church, the oldest church in the city. Overnight in Kaunas. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Vilnius – Trakai – Kaunas
Day 3
Today you'll leave Vilnius for Kaunas. En route, you'll stop in Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. During a leisurely, approximately one-hour boat trip, you'll admire the famous red island castle from the water, dating back to the 14th century and picturesquely situated amidst a vast lake landscape. On board, you'll enjoy a light snack of the local specialty, Kibinai: crescent-shaped dumplings with a meat or vegetarian filling, traditionally served with broth. The journey continues to Kaunas. Upon arrival, a guided tour will take you through the charming old town of Lithuania's second-largest city: the Town Hall Square with its 15th- and 16th-century merchants' houses, the 13th-century castle ruins, the Gothic Perkunas House with its magnificent decorative gables, and the Vytautas Church, the oldest church in the city. Overnight in Kaunas. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 4
Kaunas – Klaipeda – Nida
Today your journey takes you along the Nemunas River through picturesque landscapes, past medieval castles and 19th-century manor houses, to a hillfort dating back to the Crusades. In the village of Veliuona, you'll stop and browse the tiny village shop: fresh bread, locally produced cheese, and fruit – and perhaps you'll even meet some of the locals. Afterward, your guide will lead you to a lovely spot on the hill near the hillfort, where you can sample your purchases. Next, you'll reach Klaipėda and get to know the city on a guided tour. What was once a fishing village became the country's only port city after the construction of the Memel Castle in the 13th century. The historic old town, with its half-timbered houses, the theater, and the famous Simon Dach Fountain, is well worth a stroll. Afterwards, you'll take the ferry to the Curonian Spit, which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. The national park is the largest nature reserve in Lithuania; the area, with its historic houses and the highest dunes in Northern Europe, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. To end the day, you'll stop at a secluded, tranquil dune: sit in the sand, enjoy the peace and quiet, and the view of the sea. 2 nights in Nida. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 295 km; travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Kaunas – Klaipeda – Nida
Day 4
Today your journey takes you along the Nemunas River through picturesque landscapes, past medieval castles and 19th-century manor houses, to a hillfort dating back to the Crusades. In the village of Veliuona, you'll stop and browse the tiny village shop: fresh bread, locally produced cheese, and fruit – and perhaps you'll even meet some of the locals. Afterward, your guide will lead you to a lovely spot on the hill near the hillfort, where you can sample your purchases. Next, you'll reach Klaipėda and get to know the city on a guided tour. What was once a fishing village became the country's only port city after the construction of the Memel Castle in the 13th century. The historic old town, with its half-timbered houses, the theater, and the famous Simon Dach Fountain, is well worth a stroll. Afterwards, you'll take the ferry to the Curonian Spit, which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. The national park is the largest nature reserve in Lithuania; the area, with its historic houses and the highest dunes in Northern Europe, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. To end the day, you'll stop at a secluded, tranquil dune: sit in the sand, enjoy the peace and quiet, and the view of the sea. 2 nights in Nida. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 295 km; travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Day 5
Curonian Spit
Today you'll get to know the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. In your overnight stop, Nida, you'll be enchanted by the highest dunes in Northern Europe, the sound of the waves, and the charming little houses. You'll visit Thomas Mann's former holiday home, now a museum dedicated to his life, as well as an amber gallery where you'll learn fascinating facts about the history of amber. Then you hike up steps to the Parnidis Dune, one of the highest migrating dunes in Europe, and enjoy the unique view of the "High Dune" and the Curonian Spit. After that, you'll have time to explore the picturesque area on your own: cycling, hiking in the dunes, rowing on the lagoon, or simply relaxing on the beach. (F)
Curonian Spit
Day 5
Today you'll get to know the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. In your overnight stop, Nida, you'll be enchanted by the highest dunes in Northern Europe, the sound of the waves, and the charming little houses. You'll visit Thomas Mann's former holiday home, now a museum dedicated to his life, as well as an amber gallery where you'll learn fascinating facts about the history of amber. Then you hike up steps to the Parnidis Dune, one of the highest migrating dunes in Europe, and enjoy the unique view of the "High Dune" and the Curonian Spit. After that, you'll have time to explore the picturesque area on your own: cycling, hiking in the dunes, rowing on the lagoon, or simply relaxing on the beach. (F)
Day 6
Nida – Riga
Today your route takes you back across the Curonian Spit, by ferry to the mainland, and on to Šiauliai and the famous Hill of Crosses, an impressive Catholic pilgrimage site and a testament to Lithuanian cross carving. Since ancient times, pilgrims have carried over 100,000 crosses to the hill. A walk along the paths will allow you to take a closer look at the surroundings. For lunch, you'll stop at a charming country-style restaurant surrounded by picturesque nature and enjoy typical regional cuisine in good company. After lunch, you'll cross the border into Latvia and admire the impressive Rundale Palace (exterior view only), a Baroque palace built in the 18th century as the summer residence of the Duke of Courland and now the largest and most beautiful preserved Baroque palace in the Baltics. You can stretch your legs in the magnificent French garden. On the final leg to Riga, there will be time for conversations with your tour guide and fellow travelers – about the country and its people, music and literature. You will arrive in the Latvian capital in the evening, where you will spend three nights. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 400 km; travel time: approx. 6 hours)
Nida – Riga
Day 6
Today your route takes you back across the Curonian Spit, by ferry to the mainland, and on to Šiauliai and the famous Hill of Crosses, an impressive Catholic pilgrimage site and a testament to Lithuanian cross carving. Since ancient times, pilgrims have carried over 100,000 crosses to the hill. A walk along the paths will allow you to take a closer look at the surroundings. For lunch, you'll stop at a charming country-style restaurant surrounded by picturesque nature and enjoy typical regional cuisine in good company. After lunch, you'll cross the border into Latvia and admire the impressive Rundale Palace (exterior view only), a Baroque palace built in the 18th century as the summer residence of the Duke of Courland and now the largest and most beautiful preserved Baroque palace in the Baltics. You can stretch your legs in the magnificent French garden. On the final leg to Riga, there will be time for conversations with your tour guide and fellow travelers – about the country and its people, music and literature. You will arrive in the Latvian capital in the evening, where you will spend three nights. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 400 km; travel time: approx. 6 hours)
Day 7
Anticipate
After breakfast, you will experience the most beautiful places in Riga's Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) on a city tour: the 13th-century cathedral (exterior visit), St. Peter's Church with the tallest church tower in the city (exterior visit), the magnificent Gothic House of the Blackheads on the Town Hall Square, the old city wall and the imposing Freedom Monument. Every midday, Riga Cathedral hosts a 20-minute organ concert – a special opportunity to hear one of the world's most beautiful organs. If you'd like, you can join for €15 per person (optional, payable on site). Afterward, you'll visit the famous Central Market, the largest central market in Eastern Europe, housed in five large halls that were formerly Zeppelin hangars. An included tasting allows you to sample Latvian specialties such as cheese, pickled vegetables, fish dishes, and smoked meats. Afterward, you'll have time to explore the market further on your own. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish: stroll through one of the many parks, visit the Art Nouveau district, or relax in a café in the old town. An excursion to the popular seaside resort of Jūrmala is also possible (bookable locally). (B/L)
Anticipate
Day 7
After breakfast, you will experience the most beautiful places in Riga's Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) on a city tour: the 13th-century cathedral (exterior visit), St. Peter's Church with the tallest church tower in the city (exterior visit), the magnificent Gothic House of the Blackheads on the Town Hall Square, the old city wall and the imposing Freedom Monument. Every midday, Riga Cathedral hosts a 20-minute organ concert – a special opportunity to hear one of the world's most beautiful organs. If you'd like, you can join for €15 per person (optional, payable on site). Afterward, you'll visit the famous Central Market, the largest central market in Eastern Europe, housed in five large halls that were formerly Zeppelin hangars. An included tasting allows you to sample Latvian specialties such as cheese, pickled vegetables, fish dishes, and smoked meats. Afterward, you'll have time to explore the market further on your own. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish: stroll through one of the many parks, visit the Art Nouveau district, or relax in a café in the old town. An excursion to the popular seaside resort of Jūrmala is also possible (bookable locally). (B/L)
Day 8
Anticipate
Today you'll embark on your own discovery tour and explore the many facets of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit one of the remarkable museums, such as the National Art Museum or the Art Nouveau Museum, stroll once more through the narrow streets of the old town with its art galleries, souvenir shops, and fashion boutiques, or relax in one of the city's numerous gardens and parks. (F)
Anticipate
Day 8
Today you'll embark on your own discovery tour and explore the many facets of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit one of the remarkable museums, such as the National Art Museum or the Art Nouveau Museum, stroll once more through the narrow streets of the old town with its art galleries, souvenir shops, and fashion boutiques, or relax in one of the city's numerous gardens and parks. (F)
Day 9
Riga – Gauja National Park – Saaremaa Island
Today you'll first travel to Gauja National Park, where the Gauja River meanders through densely vegetated valleys. From Paradise Hill, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the picturesque valley and the Turaida Castle complex, which rises high above the river. Around midday, after crossing the border, you'll reach the Estonian port city of Pärnu on the south coast, known for its relaxed atmosphere and long sandy beaches. It's often called the "summer capital of Estonia." Here you can enjoy a leisurely lunch break, stroll through the charming old town with its historic buildings, cafes, and small boutiques, and refuel at a restaurant. After another leg of the journey by coach and a ferry crossing, you will reach the Estonian island of Saaremaa, often called the "Pearl of the Baltic" and known for its unspoiled nature and tranquil atmosphere. You will spend the next two nights in Kuressaare, the island's only town. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 390 km; travel time: approx. 7 hours)
Riga – Gauja National Park – Saaremaa Island
Day 9
Today you'll first travel to Gauja National Park, where the Gauja River meanders through densely vegetated valleys. From Paradise Hill, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the picturesque valley and the Turaida Castle complex, which rises high above the river. Around midday, after crossing the border, you'll reach the Estonian port city of Pärnu on the south coast, known for its relaxed atmosphere and long sandy beaches. It's often called the "summer capital of Estonia." Here you can enjoy a leisurely lunch break, stroll through the charming old town with its historic buildings, cafes, and small boutiques, and refuel at a restaurant. After another leg of the journey by coach and a ferry crossing, you will reach the Estonian island of Saaremaa, often called the "Pearl of the Baltic" and known for its unspoiled nature and tranquil atmosphere. You will spend the next two nights in Kuressaare, the island's only town. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 390 km; travel time: approx. 7 hours)
Day 10
Excursion to the Sõrve Peninsula
After breakfast, your day trip begins to the scenic Sõrve peninsula in southern Saaremaa. The first stop is the imposing Sõrve lighthouse, one of the tallest of its kind on the Baltic Sea (exterior visit only). Next, you'll make a photo stop at the Ohessaare Cliff, a natural monument approximately 400 meters long right by the sea. After a short walk, you'll find a nice spot in nature and sample local snacks that you previously purchased together with your tour guide. Part of the journey continues along the historic Kaugatoma Heritage Road, a restored coastal road in the style of the 1950s with sea views. Back in Kuressaare, you'll have free time, perhaps for lunch in one of the cozy restaurants. In the afternoon, you'll visit the impressive Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved medieval castle of the Teutonic Knights with a fascinating history. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure – perfect for a relaxing end to your day in this seaside resort town. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)
Excursion to the Sõrve Peninsula
Day 10
After breakfast, your day trip begins to the scenic Sõrve peninsula in southern Saaremaa. The first stop is the imposing Sõrve lighthouse, one of the tallest of its kind on the Baltic Sea (exterior visit only). Next, you'll make a photo stop at the Ohessaare Cliff, a natural monument approximately 400 meters long right by the sea. After a short walk, you'll find a nice spot in nature and sample local snacks that you previously purchased together with your tour guide. Part of the journey continues along the historic Kaugatoma Heritage Road, a restored coastal road in the style of the 1950s with sea views. Back in Kuressaare, you'll have free time, perhaps for lunch in one of the cozy restaurants. In the afternoon, you'll visit the impressive Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved medieval castle of the Teutonic Knights with a fascinating history. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure – perfect for a relaxing end to your day in this seaside resort town. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)
Day 11
Kuressaare – Muhu Island – Lahemaa National Park
In the morning, you'll leave Kuressaare and travel to the north coast of Saaremaa. Your first stop is the Panga Cliffs, at 21 meters the highest on the island. Here you can enjoy the view, take photos, and, if you're interested, take a short walk to see the cliff face from below. Next, you'll visit the Angla Windmills, a small, very distinctive group of traditional Estonian wooden windmills, and the nearby Karja Church, one of the oldest and most architecturally interesting churches in Saaremaa. Afterwards, you'll leave Saaremaa and cross an impressive causeway to the tranquil island of Muhu. There, you'll have time for lunch at one of the local restaurants. Following lunch, you'll visit the Muhu Museum, which offers an authentic glimpse into rural life of bygone eras. The guided tour includes a culinary treat: an introduction to the island's bread culture, complete with a tasting of the local dark rye bread, regional fish specialties, and a refreshing drink. After visiting the museum, you'll head to the ferry port, return to the Estonian mainland, and continue on to Lahemaa National Park, where you'll spend a night in an old manor house in Sagadi. (F/I) (Distance traveled: approx. 365 km; travel time: approx. 6.5 hours)
Kuressaare – Muhu Island – Lahemaa National Park
Day 11
In the morning, you'll leave Kuressaare and travel to the north coast of Saaremaa. Your first stop is the Panga Cliffs, at 21 meters the highest on the island. Here you can enjoy the view, take photos, and, if you're interested, take a short walk to see the cliff face from below. Next, you'll visit the Angla Windmills, a small, very distinctive group of traditional Estonian wooden windmills, and the nearby Karja Church, one of the oldest and most architecturally interesting churches in Saaremaa. Afterwards, you'll leave Saaremaa and cross an impressive causeway to the tranquil island of Muhu. There, you'll have time for lunch at one of the local restaurants. Following lunch, you'll visit the Muhu Museum, which offers an authentic glimpse into rural life of bygone eras. The guided tour includes a culinary treat: an introduction to the island's bread culture, complete with a tasting of the local dark rye bread, regional fish specialties, and a refreshing drink. After visiting the museum, you'll head to the ferry port, return to the Estonian mainland, and continue on to Lahemaa National Park, where you'll spend a night in an old manor house in Sagadi. (F/I) (Distance traveled: approx. 365 km; travel time: approx. 6.5 hours)
Day 12
Sagadi – Lahemaa National Park – Tallinn
hike
Today you'll discover Lahemaa National Park with its diverse landscape of pristine beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and bogs; over 200 bird species and around 900 plant species live here. You'll visit the magnificent Sagadi Manor (exterior view only) with its rich flora and some of Estonia's oldest oak trees. Afterward, you'll stroll through the 400-year-old fishing village of Altja, built in typical North Estonian style, where all the houses line a single village street and you'll see two traditional coastal farms. Finally, you'll take a short hike along boardwalks through a mystical bog and marsh landscape. You arrive in Tallinn in the evening, where you will spend the last two nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 100 km; travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Sagadi – Lahemaa National Park – Tallinn
Day 12
hike
Today you'll discover Lahemaa National Park with its diverse landscape of pristine beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and bogs; over 200 bird species and around 900 plant species live here. You'll visit the magnificent Sagadi Manor (exterior view only) with its rich flora and some of Estonia's oldest oak trees. Afterward, you'll stroll through the 400-year-old fishing village of Altja, built in typical North Estonian style, where all the houses line a single village street and you'll see two traditional coastal farms. Finally, you'll take a short hike along boardwalks through a mystical bog and marsh landscape. You arrive in Tallinn in the evening, where you will spend the last two nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 100 km; travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 13
Tallinn
After breakfast, a guided tour will introduce you to the most important historical sights of the old town: the fully preserved 14th-century city wall with its defensive towers, the imposing Toompea Castle, seat of the Estonian Parliament, the old cathedral (exterior visit) and the pretty Town Hall Square, surrounded by old merchants' houses. Afterwards, you can explore the city on your own, especially the Kalamaja district with its artistic atmosphere, colorful wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Start in Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial area and now a center for creativity, design, and culture with shops, galleries, cafes, and studios – the street art is particularly worth seeing. Balti Jaama Turg is also worth a visit: fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade artwork. In the evening, you'll meet up with your tour group and tour guide one last time for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/L/D)
Tallinn
Day 13
After breakfast, a guided tour will introduce you to the most important historical sights of the old town: the fully preserved 14th-century city wall with its defensive towers, the imposing Toompea Castle, seat of the Estonian Parliament, the old cathedral (exterior visit) and the pretty Town Hall Square, surrounded by old merchants' houses. Afterwards, you can explore the city on your own, especially the Kalamaja district with its artistic atmosphere, colorful wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Start in Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial area and now a center for creativity, design, and culture with shops, galleries, cafes, and studios – the street art is particularly worth seeing. Balti Jaama Turg is also worth a visit: fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade artwork. In the evening, you'll meet up with your tour group and tour guide one last time for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/L/D)
Day 14
Tallinn – Germany
Travel to Tallinn Airport on your own and return flight to Germany. (F)
Tallinn – Germany
Day 14
Travel to Tallinn Airport on your own and return flight to Germany. (F)
Services
What's included
Economy flight to Vilnius (VNO) and return from Tallinn (TLL), subject to availability; flight surcharge may apply.
13 nights in a double room with bath or shower/toilet
Daily breakfast (F), 1x lunch (L), 3x snack (S), 1x light meal (I), 1x dinner (A)
Transport in air-conditioned vehicles and by public ferries
German-speaking, local tour guide and additional local guest guide in several cities
Environmental protection fee Curonian Spit
Entrance fees and national park fees
Boat trip around Trakai Castle
Hiking in the moor and marsh landscape of Lahemaa National Park
Climate protection contribution
Small group with a maximum of 16 guests
Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 6 guests
What's not included
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Tip
Feeder flights, other departure airports or Rail&Fly (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Airport-hotel transfer and return: for 2 people from €45 per person/one way (outbound) and from €40 per person/one way (return), we are happy to organize the transfer upon request.
Tourist tax of approximately €11 per person, payable locally.
Organ concert in Riga Cathedral (Day 7): approx. €15 per person, payable on site
Excursion to the seaside resort of Jūrmala (Day 7)
Character of the trip
Fitness
Easy
Altitude
Low
Culture / nature
Culture-led
The tour does not require any special athletic abilities. A normal level of fitness is sufficient for city walks in the old towns, some of which are on cobblestones, and for walks in nature. One hike leads through moor and marsh landscapes. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Single room supplement from 590 euros
