Best of the Baltics

Explore Helsinki by joining a city tour that will give you the opportunity to get acquainted with the capital’s most iconic sights, such as the Senate Square, the Helsinki Cathedral and the Oodi Library. In the afternoon, you can either stay in the city and explore at your own pace or visit Suomenlinna, the UNESCO Heritage-listed sea fortress. In the evening, join your fellow travellers and tour leader for a welcome dinner.

This morning, depart Helsinki and hop aboard a ferry to travel across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Tallinn is home to one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe and offers a truly enchanting atmosphere. Upon arrival, check into the hotel for tonight and set out to explore this fairytale city with a local guide. Enjoy an evening at leisure to stroll the charming cobbled streets or enjoy a meal at one of Tallinn’s world-class restaurants.

Today, leave Estonia for Latvia; but before crossing the border, look forward to a stop in the town of Parnu, a popular summer resort famous for its beach and medieval history as a Hanseatic town. Then, enter Latvia and visit the impressive Castle of the Livonian Order in Sigulda, a medieval 13-century fortress. Finally, continue on to Riga, the captivating capital of Latvia. Check into the hotel and enjoy an included dinner.

This morning, embark on a walking tour to learn about Riga’s fascinating history. Admire important landmarks, such as the awe-inspiring House of the Blackheads, the Freedom Monument, Riga Cathedral and St Peter’s Church. In the afternoon, explore the capital further at your leisure. Visit the colossal Riga Central Market and admire the many Art Nouveau buildings of the Old Town. Or, take a short train ride to Jurmala, the picturesque resort on the Gulf of Riga beloved for its white sandy beaches, wooden villas and vibrant summer culture.

Today we leave Riga and head for the Rundale Palace, a Baroque masterpiece in the Latvian countryside often called the “Versailles of Latvia”. After admiring this splendid palace, cross the border into Lithuania, the largest of the three Baltic states. Stop at the Hill of Crosses, a mysterious, UNESCO-listed, pilgrimage site, before continuing on to the capital of Vilnius. Upon arrival, check into the hotel where dinner is included tonight.

This morning, visit the Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a walking tour. Marvel at the Gothic St Anne’s Church, Cathedral Square and the many Baroque buildings that define the Old Town. In the afternoon, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Lithuanian capital. You could visit the quirky artists’ republic of Užupis or Lukiškių, a former Soviet prison turned event space. Or, join a tour to the quaint town of Trakai, famous for its beautiful lakeside views and the magnificent Trakai Island Castle.

This morning, depart the Lithuanian capital for Poland! Travel through the Masurian Lake District and take in sweeping views of picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear lakes. Stop at the town of Gizycko, a popular tourist destination among nature lovers and locals. Then, journey on to the city of Gdansk, one of the major seaport cities on the Baltic coast. Enjoy an included dinner with the group.

Today, explore the charming city of Gdansk. Discover its iconic sights, such as the Town Hall, St Mary’s Church, the Long Market with Neptune’s Fountain and the Old Harbour. Admire its charming Dutch-inspired architecture and soak up the laid-back coastal vibes. In the afternoon, continue exploring the city on your own or join an optional activity that will allow you to dive deeper into the culture of Gdansk and the surrounding area.

Sadly, all good things come to an end, and our memorable Best of the Baltics tour finishes today after breakfast. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers. Group Tour Shop wishes you a safe journey home!