Your journey begins with a flight to Vilnius. From the airport, you'll reach your hotel using public transport. After check-in, you'll have time to gather your first impressions of the city and prepare for the days ahead. Overnight in Vilnius.

The program starts today. At 9:00 AM, you'll meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at reception. A guided city tour will take you to the most impressive sights of the Lithuanian capital (a UNESCO World Heritage Site): the Gate of Dawn, a former city gate dating back to the 16th century and now a place of pilgrimage; the Gothic St. Anne's Church; and Pilies Street, one of the oldest and most beautiful streets in the city. Vilnius University, one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe, also impresses with its architecture. The tour then continues to the creative district of Užupis, home to numerous artists and a hub for exhibitions and theatrical performances. Once a poor suburb, Užupis is now one of the most sought-after neighborhoods. Afterwards, you'll leave Vilnius and head towards Kaunas. En route, you'll stop in Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. During an approximately one-hour boat trip, you'll have a special view of the famous red island castle dating back to the 14th century. On board, you'll enjoy a light snack featuring the regional specialty, Kibinai – filled dumplings traditionally served with broth. You will reach Kaunas in the evening, where you will spend the night. (F/S)

After breakfast, you will discover the beautiful old town of Kaunas, the second largest city in Lithuania, on a guided city tour: the Town Hall Square with its merchant houses from the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle ruins from the 13th century, the Gothic Perkunas House with its ornate decorative gables and the Vytautas Church, the oldest church in the city. Your route then takes you along the Nemunas River through a charming landscape dotted with medieval castles and 19th-century manor houses. The destination is a hillfort dating back to the Crusades. You'll stop in the village of Veliuona and visit the small village shop, where you can leisurely purchase local specialties such as fresh bread, regional cheese, and seasonal fruit. Afterwards, your guide will take you to an idyllic spot on a hill near the hillfort, where you'll enjoy the snacks together. In the afternoon you will arrive in Klaipėda. A guided city tour will introduce you to the history and present-day character of Lithuania's only port city. The former fishing village developed into an important trading center from the 13th century onwards with the construction of the Nemunas Castle (Memelburg). The historic old town, with its half-timbered houses, the theater, and the famous Simon Dach Fountain, is well worth a stroll. You are free to spend the evening as you wish – your tour guide will be happy to provide restaurant recommendations. Of course, you can also simply enjoy the amenities of your modern hotel. 2 nights in Klaipėda. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 240 km; travel time: approx. 3 hours)

Today you'll explore the Curonian Spit, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. You'll take the ferry across. Your first stop is the Hill of Witches in Juodkrantė: Since 1979, over 80 wooden sculptures depicting figures from Lithuanian legends and fairy tales have lined a path there. Next, you'll reach Nida. Be captivated by the highest dunes in Northern Europe, the sound of the waves, and the lovingly designed houses. In this artists' village, you'll visit Thomas Mann's former summer house, now a small museum about his life, and the Amber Museum, which vividly illustrates the history and significance of amber. Afterward, you'll climb the steps to the Parnidis Dune, one of the highest migrating dunes in Europe, and enjoy the sweeping view across the Curonian Spit and the neighboring "High Dune." On the way back to the ferry, you'll stop at a smaller, quieter dune. During a walk on the beach, you'll learn more about the significance of amber in the Baltic region. Afterwards, you can relax on the sand, gaze out to sea, and unwind before heading back to Klaipėda. The evening is yours to enjoy; the city boasts several panoramic restaurants and bars with views. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 100 km; travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)

Today your journey takes you to Šiauliai and the famous Hill of Crosses, an impressive Catholic pilgrimage site. For centuries, pilgrims have erected more than 100,000 crosses here to give thanks, to suppose things, or to pray for grace. A stroll along the narrow paths allows you to quietly absorb the intricate carvings and the unique atmosphere. For lunch, you'll stop at a regional country-style restaurant surrounded by picturesque nature and enjoy traditional cuisine and a rustic ambiance in good company. Next, you'll cross the border into Latvia and arrive at Rundale Palace. This magnificent complex was built in the 18th century as the summer residence of the Duke of Courland and is now considered the largest and best-preserved Baroque palace in the Baltic states. During an exterior visit, you'll stroll through the elaborately designed French garden. On the journey to Riga, there will be time for conversations with your tour guide and fellow travelers – about the country and its people, perhaps accompanied by music or a short reading from a work of Baltic literature. In the evening, you will arrive in Riga, where you will spend two nights in a charming hotel in the historic center. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 345 km; travel time: approx. 5.5 hours)

After breakfast, you will take part in a guided walking tour of Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see the 13th-century Riga Cathedral, the cathedral of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia; St. Peter's Church with the tallest church tower in the city; the magnificent Gothic House of the Blackheads on Town Hall Square; sections of the old city wall; and the Freedom Monument. Every day at noon, a 20-minute organ concert takes place in the cathedral – a special opportunity to experience one of the world's most impressive organs live (€15 per person, optional, payable on site). Afterwards, you will visit Riga's Central Market, the largest inner-city market in Eastern Europe, housed in five large halls that originally served as Zeppelin hangars. An included tasting allows you to sample a selection of Latvian specialties: various cheeses, pickled vegetables, fish products, and smoked meats. Afterwards, you will 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 and its museum, or relax in a café in the old town. (F/S)

Today your journey takes you first to Gauja National Park, where the river of the same name meanders through forested valleys. From Paradise Hill, you'll enjoy a particularly beautiful view of the picturesque valley and the Turaida Castle complex. After taking in the panorama, you'll explore the castle up close. On the way, you'll stop at a local brewery. After a tour, we'll treat you to a glass of local beer, which you can enjoy in the taproom or on the outdoor terrace. In the evening you'll arrive in Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city. It's considered the country's intellectual center and is particularly known for its prestigious university and vibrant cultural scene. Your tour guide will likely have already shared stories about this charming student city along the way – if not, just ask for recommendations for the evening. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 260 km; travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

Discover Tartu, one of the oldest cities in the Baltics, first documented in 1030. A guided tour will introduce you to this charming university town: the modern city center dating from the late 18th century, the impressive ruins of the 13th-century cathedral, and the historic university. For a break, you'll stop at one of your tour guide's favorite cafés – your choice of coffee is on us. Before continuing your journey, you'll have some free time to explore the city on your own or pick up some provisions. The tour continues to Lahemaa National Park. This protected area impresses with its pristine coastline, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and bogs; with over 200 bird species and around 900 plant species, it is one of the most biodiverse in Estonia. You will visit the elegant Sagadi Manor (exterior view only), known for its ancient oak trees and botanical diversity. Afterward, you will stroll through the 400-year-old fishing village of Altja with its North Estonian-style wooden houses. A short hike along boardwalks will lead you through the park's mysterious bog and marsh landscape. In the evening you will arrive in Tallinn, where you will spend the next two nights in a charming hotel in an attractive location. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 220 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, a guided city tour will reveal the most important historical sights of Tallinn's Old Town: the fully preserved 14th-century city wall with its distinctive defensive towers, the imposing Toompea Castle, seat of the Estonian Parliament, the Cathedral from the outside, and the charming Town Hall Square surrounded by old merchant houses. Afterwards, you can continue exploring Tallinn on your own. The Kalamaja district is particularly worthwhile, with its creative atmosphere, brightly painted wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Start at Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial area that is now a hub for design, art, and contemporary urban culture, with its galleries, studios, small shops, and cafes. The colorful street art is also a sight to behold. Another highlight is Balti Jaama Turg, a large market with fresh produce, regional specialties, and handcrafted goods. In the evening, you'll meet up one last time with your tour group and tour guide. A farewell dinner at a selected restaurant will bring your trip to a close. (B/L/D)

You will travel independently to Tallinn Airport by public transport in time for your return flight and begin your journey home. (F)