From Riga: Rundale Palace & Hill of Crosses Private Day Trip – How to Plan Your Tour

When visiting Riga, taking a day trip to the beautiful Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses is an exciting way to explore the region’s rich history and culture. This private day trip offers you the convenience of door-to-door pick-up and drop-off, an expert local guide, and the freedom to explore these incredible landmarks at your own pace. Follow these steps to plan the tour and experience an unforgettable day trip in Riga.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

To ensure a hassle-free tour, book your Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses Private Day Trip in advance with GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers this tour as a third-party company, and you can book it by clicking here. The tour includes private transportation, local guide services, and entrance fees to Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses.

Step 2: Prepare for the Tour

Before embarking on this exciting adventure, it is essential to prepare yourself for the upcoming day. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking around the Palace and Hill of Crosses. Bringing a hat, sunscreen and glasses might also come in handy in the summertime. Ensure to have a camera or smartphone alongside charger for photoshoots and set aside cash or a credit card for additional expenses such as souvenirs or food.

Step 3: Start your Day Trip

The driver will pick you up from your address in Riga at the scheduled time in the morning. From here, you will embark on a scenic drive through the Latvian countryside, taking approximately one hour to reach your first destination, Rundale Palace.

Step 4: Marvel French Gardens in Rundale Palace

Once in Rundale Palace, you will meet the expert local guide who will lead you through the Palace, sharing stories of its fascinating history. You’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the splendid French gardens, located just a few steps away from the Palace, before proceeding to the Hill of Crosses.

Step 5: Visit the Hill of Crosses

Upon arrival at the Hill of Crosses, you will be overwhelmed by the magnificence of hundreds of thousands of crosses, placed there by people from all over the world. With the help of the experienced guide, you will learn about the Hill’s history and culture, adding a meaningful and spiritual dimension to the trip.

Step 6: Return to Riga

After spending enough time at the Hill of Crosses, the tour will return to Riga, marking the end of this unique and unforgettable day trip.

Conclusion

Visiting Rundale Palace and Hill of Crosses with this private day trip is an incredible way to explore the history and culture of the region. By following these simple steps, you can easily plan and book this hassle-free tour, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Insider’s Guide to Riga, Latvia: Local Attractions, Dining, Culture, History & Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Riga, the capital city of Latvia, is situated on the Gulf of Riga. This city is famous for its architecture, culture, and history. It is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the unique Baltics charm. Here’s a guide to make the most of your trip to Riga.

Local Attractions

1. Vecriga (Old Town): This is the historic center of Riga and one of the most popular tourist attractions, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has many restaurants, cafes, museums, and galleries. Take a stroll through the Old Town to see the stunning architecture and city squares.

2. Art Nouveau District: Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, and the Art Nouveau district is a must-visit. The buildings in this area depict a mix of Art Nouveau and National Romanticism styles.

3. Riga Central Market: This market is housed in five 1930’s hanger-like buildings and is the largest market in Europe. It displays the best of Latvian food, including meat, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and fish.

Dining

1. 3 Pavaru Restorans: This restaurant located in Vecriga offers delicious Latvian cuisine. It has an elegant atmosphere, with a mix of modern and traditional decor.

2. Lido: Lido is a chain of Latvian barbeque restaurants that offer a wide variety of local dishes. It has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

3. Biblioteka No1: This restaurant is famous for its extensive wine selection and Mediterranean cuisine. It has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic dinner.

Culture

1. National Museum of Art of Latvia: This museum showcases works by Latvian artists from the 18th century to the present day. It also features European art from the 16th – 19th centuries.

2. Latvian National Opera: The Latvian National Opera offers a rich and diverse repertoire, including classical and contemporary ballet, opera, and music.

3. Latvian Song and Dance Festival: This festival takes place every five years and is a celebration of Latvia’s culture, music, and traditions. Thousands of singers and dancers take part in the event.

History

1. Riga Castle: This castle is located in the historical center of Riga and has served as the residence of Latvian leaders since the 14th century.

2. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia: This museum showcases the history of Latvia’s Soviet and Nazi occupations.

3. Freedom Monument: This monument is a symbol of Latvia’s independence and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Riga.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Kipsala Island: This island is just a short walk from the city center and provides a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has beautiful parks and gardens.

2. Jurmala Beach: Jurmala is a popular seaside resort town, located just 25 km outside Riga. The 33 km long beach and pine forests provide a perfect setting for a day trip.

3. Kalnciema Quarter: This area is home to a weekly farmers’ market, where you can buy local produce. It also has many restaurants and bars that offer a unique dining experience.

In conclusion, Riga is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the unique Baltics charm. We hope that this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Riga.