The World Was Here First

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

Last Updated on January 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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travel to baltic states

Are you planning a trip to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and are looking for the perfect Baltics itinerary? These three countries along the Baltic Sea, though small both in size and population, have a lot to offer travellers, especially if they’re looking to get off the beaten path.

Whether you’re only able to sojourn into the Baltics for a short time or you have weeks on end to explore this undiscovered region, there are many routes you can take for an epic trip to the Baltics. Each country has its own unique culture, incredible nature, beautiful beaches, and postcard-perfect towns and cities.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around the Baltics

All three Baltic capitals have international airports with connections from most major European cities, so it’s relatively easy to get to the region.

You can also reach Tallinn and Riga via ferry from Finland and Sweden if you’re combining this with a trip to the Nordics. For instance, you can reach Tallinn from Helsinki in about 2 hours on the ferry.

The way this itinerary is routed, it’s easiest to start in either Estonia or Lithuania to avoid having to backtrack at all during your trip.

Tallinn's Town Hall

Once you’re in the Baltics, the easiest way to get around is with your own car.

While the cities are walkable and the public transit is good, if you want the flexibility to make stop-offs and get a bit off the beaten path, having your own car is going to be essential. There are certain things you can only get on a Baltics road trip vs a route devoted only to public transportation. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices on rental cars.

If you don’t want to drive in the Baltics, note that you’re going to be limited to the bus, generally, to get around. Bus routes are robust and plentiful, however, the train is a lot less developed (if routes even exist). You can view schedules here.

3-Week Baltics Travel Itinerary

If you are keen to dive deep and really get a good taste of what the beautiful Baltic countries have to offer, then we would recommend spending at least 2-3 weeks in the region.

If you only have a shorter period of time, it is best to concentrate on only one or two of the countries rather than trying to rush through all three. Here is our top Estonia-Latvia-Lithuania itinerary to help you plan your trip!

Days 1-3: Tallinn

Begin your trip to the Baltics in the Estonian capital city of Tallinn. Many people treat this beautiful city only as a day trip, hopping over on a ferry from Helsinki or strolling around while on a land excursion from a Baltic cruise.

However, Tallinn has a lot more to offer tourists than its compact (albeit absolutely beautiful) Old Town, which is why we recommend you spend at least 3 days in Tallinn , however, four days is best to really get to know the city.

While the Old Town can easily be explored in only one day, Tallinn has a lot of interesting things to offer tourists beyond it.

Take the time to wander around the trendy Kalamaja district — once a neighbourhood for fisherman and their families, it has now been gentrified and taken over by the city’s hipsters. The nearby Telliskivi Creative City and Balti Jaama Turg have some of Tallinn’s best street art, restaurants, and street food in town.

It is also worth exploring the Estonian capital’s hopping (pun intended) craft beer scene . There are so many incredible beers available in Tallinn that travellers could easily spend days jumping from one taproom to the next without coming close to sampling them all.

And while Tallinn is famous for its medieval charms, it is also well worth exploring the city’s more recent history. Though Estonia has all but shaken its Soviet past, has a thriving capitalist economy, and is often considered the most technologically advanced country in the world , there are still striking reminders about the occupation this small country was under less than thirty years ago.

Imposing communist structure, such as Linnahall just outside of the Old Town, serves as a reminder of just how far this city has come.

Linnahall Concert Hall in Tallinn

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Savoy Boutique Hotel – This luxury boutique hotel is perfect for those with a bit of a higher budget looking for a plush stay in this beautiful city. Located within the Old Town, it is perfectly situated close to everything that Tallinn has to offer.

Bob W Telliskivi – For those who want to experience Tallinn like a local (or simply want their own space), these apartments are a great option. Located near Telliskivi, they have a few fully furnished apartments that can suit plenty of visitors. They’re also situated within easy reach of Tallinn’s top sites.

Fat Margaret’s Hostel  – This hostel is a fantastic place to stay in Tallinn if you’re on a budget or travelling solo. It is in a great location near the harbour, just minutes from the Old Town and the Kalamaja neighbourhood. They have both dorm and private rooms available and also have a sauna.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Tallinn hotels!

Tallinn's City Walls

Days 4-5: Saaremaa

From Tallinn, it’s time to head a bit off the beaten path and visit Estonia’s largest island of Saaremaa. The island is very easy to reach via ferry from the town of Virtsu, which is located about 130km south of Tallinn.

The ferries leave very frequently and the journey is about thirty minutes. The ferry arrives onto Muhu Island, which is connected to Saaremaa via a bridge.

It’s easiest to get around Saaremaa if you have your own car, but you can take a bus from Tallinn to the main city of Kuressaare and get around the island using public transit, as well.

All in all, plan to spend a couple of days exploring the island and enjoying its laid-back pace of life. There are plenty of things to do in Saaremaa including gorgeous beaches to see, cool lighthouses, imposing castles and even a meteorite crater. It’s also worth taking the time to explore the lovely main town of Kuressaare.

Sõrve Lighthouse

Where to Stay on Saaremaa

Ekesparre Boutique Hotel – If it’s luxury you’re after during your Estonian island escape, then this boutique hotel is an excellent choice. Considered to be Saaremaa’s oldest hotel, they have a great location in the centre of Kuressaare. There are several lovely rooms available, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Stuudio 17 – For those who like to have their own place while travelling, this one-bedroom flat is an excellent choice. Located on a quiet street in Kuressaare, it makes for the perfect base for exploring Saaremaa and is fully equipped with everything that you should need.

Guesthouse Laurits – A cosy guesthouse, this place is a great option for those looking to stick to a budget while on Saaremaa. Conveniently located in Kuressaare, they have a number of comfortable rooms on offer, a shared kitchen and are even pet-friendly!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Saaremaa hotels!  

Saaremaa's Beautiful Coastline

Days 6-7: Tartu

Although it is Estonia’s second-largest city, Tartu doesn’t get nearly the amount of tourism it deserves. Home to the country’s oldest and largest university and filled with a lively and youthful energy, there are many fun and interesting things to do in Tartu .

Spend your first day exploring the charming Old Town, with its many cafes and restaurants and distinct lack of tourists. Take some time to admire the Kissing Students fountain and view the main square through the yellow National Geographic Frame.

It is also well worth taking the time to visit the Tartu University Botanical Gardens and taking a stroll along the Emajogi River — the only fully navigable river in Estonia.

On your second day, get to know Tartu outside of the Old Town. The hip neighbourhood of Karlova is well worth exploring, especially given it has some of the city’s best street art.

Also worth stopping by is the Aparaaditehas Complex, a former Soviet widget factory that has been repurposed and now houses a number of hip restaurants, cool shops, and art galleries.

Stops at the Estonian Print & Paper Museum and the KGB Cells Museum are also a great idea, especially if you want to learn more about the history of Tartu and Estonia in general.

If you are more interested in spending time on the beach rather than heading inland, we recommend heading to the seaside city of Pärnu instead of visiting Tartu. With many kilometres of white-sand beach and numerous interesting things to do, Pärnu is often considered to be Estonia’s “summer capital.”

Tartu's charming main square

Where to Stay in Tartu

Hotel Soho – Located in the heart of Tartu’s Old Town, this boutique hotel is a good option for those travelling on a mid-range budget. They have a range of rooms available and breakfast is even included in the room rate.

TartuKodu – For travellers who would rather have their own apartment rather than stay in a hotel, this one-bedroom flat in central Tartu is a great option. Conveniently located close to all the city has to offer, the apartment is comfortable and fully furnished.

Looming Hostel   – If you are travelling on a budget, then Looming Hostel is a great accommodation option in Tartu. This small, environmentally-friendly hostel has a couple of dorm and private rooms on offer, good common areas, and a nice roof terrace.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tartu hotels!

The iconic Kissing Students Fountain

Days 8-11: Riga

Riga is the largest city in the Baltic States by population and certainly has a more cosmopolitan vibe than the other two Baltic capitals.

While Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site – like the old towns of the other Baltic capitals) is very much worth exploring, with iconic sites such as the House of the Blackheads and the Gunpowder Tower, the real charms of the Latvian capital lie in central Riga.

With more Art Nouveau architecture than any other city in the world, Riga is a visual wonder. There are also many cool and interesting things to do in the city, we recommend spending at least three days here.

Relaxing by the canal in Riga

Spend the first day exploring the Old Town – maybe taking a walking tour to get some historic context with a local guide. While this is the most touristy area of the city, prices are still quite affordable and there are significantly fewer tour groups than in Tallinn.

Your second day should be devoted to wandering through the central district, admiring the architecture, eating at some hip restaurants or wine bars, and visiting a few of the many museums. A detour to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum just outside of the city is also a great idea, especially if you want to see what life in Latvia was like hundreds of years ago.

On the third day, take a trip to the nearby seaside villages of Jurmala — a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. If the weather is warm and sunny, spend the day basking on the fine, white sand. Or else, there are many affordable spas so you can treat yourself to a massage or a pedicure.

Alternatively, you could spend your time walking through the bogs in Kemeri National Park in the morning and lounge on the Jurmala beaches in the afternoon.

If you want to spend more than three days in Riga , there are a number of other day trips to take from Riga, including the charming towns of Cesis and Sigulda with their imposing medieval castles and Kuldiga, which boasts the widest “waterfall” in Europe.

The House of the Blackheads in Riga

Where to Stay in Riga

Greystone Suites & Apartments  – If you’re looking for a nice hotel that also has some self-catering abilities, then this is a fantastic choice for you. It is centrally located and within walking distance of all of the main sites. They have a large range of suites and apartments on offer, as well.

Grand Poet by Semarah – For travellers who are looking for a life of luxury in the Latvian capital, this 5-star hotel will certainly please. Centrally located for exploring all Riga has to offer, they have a number of luxe rooms available and countless amenities, such as a state-of-the-art fitness centre, pool and spa. Breakfast is included and they also organise airport shuttles.

Cinnamon Sally Backpacker’s Hostel  – Located close to the Central Market, this small hostel is one of the best places to stay in Riga for budget backpackers or solo travellers. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also organise social events, making it a great option if you’re travelling solo and want to meet some people to explore Riga with!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Riga!

The Nativity Cathedral in Riga

Days 12-13: Liepaja

As Latvia’s third largest city, the main appeal of Liepaja is its seemingly endless stretch of immaculate beach and a city centre that is absolutely oozing with charm. It seems a miracle that so few visitors to Latvia even have Liepaja on their radar.

While most people will make a beeline to the beach — which, incidentally, has the softest sand we have ever encountered — there are a number of cool things to do in the city of Liepaja itself and it deserves to be explored.

Take the time to browse the city’s many markets and get to know its musical history. Outside of the centre, there is a charming Art Nouveau quarter that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies as a stand-in for the likes of Paris.

The former Soviet prison in the suburb of Karosta is also, now, a tourist attraction. It is even possible to stay a night at the prison and have a complete, accurate taste of what it was like for inmates there in years past — not for the faint-hearted!

The Liepaja sign on a sunny, summer's day

Where to Stay in Liepaja

Seaside Park Apartment – This private apartment has everything you might need to feel at home while visiting Liepaja and it also just happens to be about a five-minute walk from the beach! The owners are incredibly kind and helpful and will ensure that your stay is as perfect as possible.

Boutique Hotel Roze – Also located within a stone’s throw from the beach, this small hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway in Liepaja. They have a range of rooms on offer, have a restaurant on site, and also you can add a breakfast option to the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Liepaja!

Liepaja's main market

Days 14-15: Klaipeda

From Liepaja, head to Klaipeda – perhaps taking a detour to visit the iconic Hill of Crosses along the way if it interests you.

Lithuania’s third-largest city is the country’s only port. However, contrary to many other port cities, it is incredibly charming with a quaint old town, a number of great restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. It is also the gateway for exploring the naturally stunning Curonian Spit.

Spend at least one full day exploring Klaipeda proper, where there is a surprising amount of things to do. Walk along the quaint cobbled streets, admire the many art installations, and enjoy the peaceful seaside charm. The city also has an interesting Hanseatic history and many museums that are worth exploring.

Take another day or two to explore the Curonian Spit. An easy and quick ferry from Klaipeda, the Lithuanian side of the Spit spans 50 kilometres and offers an incredible ecosystem unique to this narrow strip of land.

The imposing sand dunes, the charming villages of Nida, Juodokrante, and Smiltyne, and the beautiful expanse of beaches make the Curonian Spit one of the premier places to visit in Lithuania.

A mermaid basks in the sunshine on Klaipeda's riverfront

Where to Stay in Klaipeda

Michaelson Boutique Hotel   – If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in a cute boutique hotel, then look no further than the Michaelson Boutique Hotel. Located in the Old Town, this small hotel offers a range of rooms and comes incredibly highly rated.

Art Hotel Boheme  – Another small hotel, this place is good for couples and families alike. They have many rooms to choose from, are located very close to the Old Town and there is a good breakfast each morning.

Klaipeda Hostel  – If you’re travelling on a budget or are keen to meet other travellers while visiting Klaipeda, this is the place for you. This small hostel has both dorm beds and private rooms on offer and is in a great location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Klaipeda!

The idyllic Curonian Spit

Days 16-17: Kaunas

Because it is a hub for budget airline Ryanair and has recently been selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2022, Kaunas is seeing more visitors than it used to in past years.

However, many people visiting the second-largest city in Lithuania make a beeline either for Vilnius or the coast and leave the city unexplored.

This is a huge mistake, however, as Kaunas has a quite a lot to offer travellers and is worth spending a couple of nights in, rather than treating it as a day trip from Vilnius.

A more artistic and alternative city than you will find elsewhere in Lithuania, there is a thriving street art scene in the city. There is also a fascinating history, a number of interesting museums, and an imposing medieval castle to explore.

It’s also worth taking the time to visit the fascinating Sugihara House Museum, a museum dedicated to the Japanese diplomat who issued visas that saved countless Jewish people from a terrible fate during WWII.

Spending two days in Kaunas is a perfect addition to your Lithuania itinerary and we assure you that this edgy city won’t disappoint.

Kaunas Castle

Where to Stay in Kaunas

Hof Hotel   – This small hotel is one of the best places to stay in the city if you aren’t after the hostel lifestyle. Situated in a great location, they have a number of rooms on offer, come very highly reviewed, and even have free breakfast included in the room rate.

Maironis Apartment – This two-bedroom apartment is an excellent option if you’d like to have your own space while visiting Kaunas. Centrally located, you can easily explore all the city has to offer using this as a base. It is fully furnished and comes very highly reviewed.

Monk’s Bunk Hostel   – This small and cosy hostel is an excellent option for budget backpackers and solo travellers alike. Located in central Kaunas, they have both dorm and private rooms available, have great reviews, and have excellent staff.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Kaunas!

Kaunas street art

Days 18-21: Vilnius

The perfect ending point for this Baltics itinerary is in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius. Boasting one of the largest Old Towns in all of Europe, Vilnius has a fraction of the tourists of Riga or Tallinn but sacrificed none of the charm.

Founded by Grand Duke Gediminas in the 14th century, the stunning baroque architecture and the laid-back vibe make Vilnius one of the best cities to explore in the Baltics. Spending at least three or four days in Vilnius will be the perfect amount of time to see everything that this dynamic capital has to offer.

Spend your first day exploring the massive Old Town, taking in all of the main sites such as the Town Hall Square, St Anne’s Church, and the central market of Hales Turgus. Enjoy the city’s thriving cafe culture and dine in some of the best restaurants in the region.

Devote your second day to wandering through the bohemian “independent republic” of Uzupis. This alternative area is filled with great street art, cool craft beer bars, and some of the best restaurants in the city. This is also a great time to visit some of Vilnius’ fantastic museums in order to learn more about the city’s and country’s complex history.

On the third day, take a day trip to the charming lakeside village of Trakai and admire the beautiful Trakai Castle – situated on its own island. If the weather is fine, you can even rent a pedal boat or swim in the lakes.

St Anne's Church in Vilnius

Where to Stay in Vilnius

Hotel Rinno – Excellently located close to Cathedral Square in the Old Town, this boutique hotel is one of the best places to stay in Vilnius . They have a range of rooms on offer and also have breakfast included in the room rate.

Old Town Trio – This hotel located on the edge f the old town is an excellent mid-range option in the Lithuanian capital. They have a myriad of lovely rooms to choose from, great amenities and there is an option to include breakfast in the morning.

Jimmy Jumps House/Hostel  – This small hostel has a lively atmosphere and is a place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Located just off of the Town Hall square, they have both dorm and private rooms at affordable prices. They also organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Vilnius!

Uzupis sign

Planning the perfect Baltics itinerary can be a complicated task, with so many interesting places to visit. Take the time to really explore the places you visit and get to know the countries you are in and it certainly won’t disappoint!

Are you planning to visit the Baltic countries? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

travel to baltic states

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I’m planning to travel from Helsinki to Prague over 2+ weeks. What’s your advice for affordable accommodation through the Baltics and should I be concerned about not speaking Russian or German. I am a 58 y o women traveling solo for a little adventure.

Sounds like a great trip! For affordable accommodation, I would recommend looking at Airbnb. Depending on where you are, private rooms will probably set you back about €20/night and a full apartment will probably be about €35-40/night. You also get the added bonus of staying with locals! As for a language barrier, It shouldn’t be much of an issue. Most people, especially the younger generation, tend to speak English at quite a high level. Of course, it’s always good to know a few words and key phrases in the local language and having Google translate downloaded will get you by in a pinch. Hope this helps!

Thank you for publishing this, as the Baltics have been on my radar for a while. I’ve wanted to avoid traveling by cruise ships (for many reasons)

We are planning to visit in July -Aug 2019, more or less traveling from Tallinn to Vilnius (might reverse, also a St Petersburg stop will be included at end/beginning).

Would you recommend traveling by train or bus in certain areas? Suggestions by country would be great.

Thanks for your comment, Jake! You can see a lot more of the Baltics if you avoid cruise ships so it’s great that you’re trying to avoid them. If you’re relying on public transport to get around (which is totally doable), your best bet is going to be to go by bus. There isn’t a well-developed train network throughout the Baltics but the buses are modern, extensive and reliable, and will get you everywhere you need to go.

We have a bunch of content on specific cities and regions throughout Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania if you want to check it out ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baltics-travel-guide/ ). And if you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us 🙂

Thank you for an excellent and informative read.

I am heading to Baltic in June, starting ( 2 nts) and ending (2 nts) in Kaunas.

Can you suggest an itinerary to get the most from my ten days?

I intend all transfers to be by bus as is cheap and see more of the region that way.

Accommodation hopefully be Airbnb.

So many places to see, starting to think I should have booked more than ten days.

Do you think Kaunas,Tallinn,Riga,Vilnius,Tartu are doable in that time frame?

Some places you suggested that I hadn’t considered ( eg Tartu) have complicated things further.

Given Kaunas already booked I have a week to cover other places.

Would appreciate your itinerary ideas.

Got a feeling I shall need to book a return visit.?

Would much appreciate your input.

Hi Stuart, glad you found the itinerary helpful! I think that you might be a little bit pressed for time if you only have 10 days for all those stops. I would honestly recommend only heading to the capitals during that time (you can start in Kaunas and end in Vilnius, Kaunas is only maybe 1.5 hours away by bus from Vilnius). That would give you a good taste for the region without exhausting yourself. However much I love Tartu, for instance, I think it would probably more fulfilling to give Tallinn a proper amount of time during your first visit to the Baltics. Like you said, there is always room for more in a return visit! Hope this helps. If you need more help planning your trip, we have a ton of Baltics content here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baltics-travel-guide/

Hi Maggie, very helpful information. Wanted to check on what is the best way to travel between the cities mentioned in the Baltics

Hi Indrani, the best way to get between cities in the Baltics if you’re relying on public transport is by bus. There isn’t a well-developed train network in any of the three countries and the buses, especially Lux Express, are very comfortable and quite efficient.

Hi That was a pretty comprehensive guide to the Baltics! We are a group of 4 (husband, daughter, son-in-law and myself), planning a trip to the Baltics for around 2 weeks, starting Oct 18th or so. We thought we could travel the 3 Baltic countries by road (bus or hired car), then head to Warsaw for a few days, and head back home to Bangalore from there.

Do you think this itinerary would work with the time available? All 3 of my co-travellers are architects, so which cities / towns would you recommend we visit in this trip for experiencing / enjoying the local architecture ? And, is late October a good time to see fall colours, or should we plan to go a week or 2 earlier?

Thanks for your comment, Vijaya! I think that two weeks should be sufficient with your plans — I would recommend starting in Tallinn and heading south if you want to end your trip in Warsaw. For the architects, definitely spend some time in Riga as it has an amazing array of Art Nouveaux buildings and Vilnius would be a great option if they like Baroque architecture. I think your plan for mid-late October is a good one if you want to see some autumn colours — just make to pack some warm clothes as it will start to be very chilly!

Hey Maggie, Thanks for the exhaustive information. I have a wedding to attend in Estonia and hence would like to do nearby cities/countries too. I have around 10-12 days in hand. Do not want to rush into many places but would like to do leisurely as i will be travelling with 2 teens too :-). My tentative plan is to do Estonia Latvia Lithuvania. What would you suggest.Should i include Finland in my trip. Cheers 🙂 Aparna

Hi Aparna, with only 10-12 days, I wouldn’t try to cram all three of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania into your trip – there is too much to see and do that you would need more time. I’d recommend spending time in just Estonia and Latvia or simply just Estonia – you will get a lot out of the trip and there is a lot to see and do that you certainly won’t be bored!

Hey Maggie How about a trip in early April? Will the weather be cold for a trip with an emphasis on nature and the Baltic coast region?

Early April is still going to be quite cold in the Baltics and temperatures will likely still be hovering the single digits (celsius), so it may not be ideal for a coastal trip.

I was planning on a quick trip thru the Baltics this summer but apparently they merit much more time than that. I will plan on spending a month or so there on a different summer trip.

There really is so much to see and do in the region that having enough time is essential 🙂

Hi Maggie. My Husband and I want to travel to Lithuania next year. My Father was born in Kybartai and my life long dream is to see where he grew up. From the limited research I have done so far I’m thinking we need to fly into Kuanas. Are there buses from Kuanas to Kybartai? What time of year do you recommend we go there? We don’t like cold weather but don’t want it to be extremely hot to explore in. We will be traveling from New York State USA and this will be our first trip to Europe. We do not speak Lithuanian, will we find many people in Kybartai that speak English? Can you recommend any places to stay there?

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Travelling the Baltics: Your Perfect Baltic Itinerary

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Itinerary for Travelling the Baltics

Thinking of Travelling the Baltics? Here’s a Sample Baltic Itinerary!

If you want a Baltic travel itinerary, you are in the right place! Planning a trip to the Baltics can be a challenge – even though they are so small, there is a ton to do and see in each of the Baltic States!

This is the first post about the Baltics on Penguin and Pia so we are going to be adding lots more information on the region in the future!

As a good place to start, below is a sample itinerary with the capitals, day trips, hostels, and other points of interest in the Baltic states.

In fact, all of Eric’s hostels in all three countries made our massive list of European hostels we loved staying at!

Table of Contents

Things to Consider When Travelling the Baltics

Before you dive into Baltic trip planning, you’ll want to consider a few details. From the currency they use (the Euro) to the weather, safety, and the best time to visit, we cover a few key areas below to help you prepare.

What are the Baltic States?

The Baltics (not to be confused with the Balkans, another region we absolutely love) is a small grouping of countries that are bordering the Baltic Sea in the Northeast part of Europe.

While a few of the countries that lie on the Baltic Sea can be considered Baltic countries, the Baltic States in their traditional definition are Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.

These three countries were part of the Soviet Union until their independence in 1991. Their capitals are beautiful, and are Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn , in order of above!

Best Time to Visit the Baltics

Realistically, the best time to visit the Baltic countries depends on the type of travel you like to do. It will also depend on the types of activities you want to.

Eric visited in the winter and while it was much colder, there was still lots to do and explore. Another perk was that there were fewer people around.

Also, he wouldn’t have been able to go bobsledding in Latvia (see below) if it was summertime! There’s a reason a few of the Baltic capitals made the list of our favourite cities in Europe to visit in the winter .

Summertime means that the national parks in Estonia are full of hikers and wildlife. Summertime also means that the beaches along the Baltic Sea (like in Klaipėda, Lithuania) are going to be full of sun-seekers.

Day trips to Trakai Castle in the summer mean beautiful lakes and water activities. The winter means walking on the lake and enjoying the cold but peaceful atmosphere. See – there is no easy answer!

For the best of all worlds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May and then September-October.  The spring is cooler and there might be some rain but there will be fewer crowds and the snow will be gone.

The fall can also be nice because up in Estonia especially you’ll get to see beautiful coloured leaves.

Getting Around the Baltics

Getting around the Baltics is pretty easy since there are only so many large centres and they are all connected via highways (usually). This makes planning a route a no-brainer if you just stick to where the highways bring you!

We’ll get to car rentals below. As for Eric’s trip, he took the bus between all the Baltic capitals, ending in Estonia. It was awesome – we actually wrote a whole detailed post on taking the bus between the Baltic capitals from Vilnius to Riga to Tallinn .

The bus company in the region is LUX Express. He even took it from Warsaw to Vilnius to start the Baltic portion of the trip.

To be honest, after travelling with the big names like Megabus, FlixBus, ones in the Balkans like CroatiaBus, LUX was probably the cheapest and overall best experiences he has had with a bus company.

The best part about LUX Express is that tickets can be cheap but still a quality experience. You can check the timetables and latest deals on the LUX Express website .

Car Rental in The Baltics

If you are feeling like driving as opposed to the bus, renting a car is definitely a good option here in the Baltics. The thing is that these countries aren’t very big and so driving between places isn’t a huge time commitment like in other countries.

Plus, having a car means that you can adventure off and day trip if you want to see more than what you would be able to by sticking to a bus route.

In the Baltics, the highways are pretty good – regional roads between cities are paved and well-maintained. With any country, the more rural you get, the worse the roads become but that’s sort of a standard you’d come to expect.

Another big plus is that since the Baltics are all in the EU and the Schengen Zone, there are no internal borders between them. So you can drive wherever you like and cross borders without any problems!

Given that Baltic road trips are very doable, there are loads of rental car agencies available. You can compare prices from different agencies for the duration of your trip  with this handy tool . Make sure to read the fine print about additional costs in case there are any issues.

Are the Baltics Safe?

Because so little is typically known about the region – this is a popular question to ask. With a rich history and an intimidating neighbour to the east (Russia), it’s no wonder we wonder if the Baltics are safe.

In short, we think the answer is: yes, but. The Baltics themselves are politically stable and developed nations. They are in the EU – and that wouldn’t happen if the countries still needed to get their act together. With any country, however, it’s always wise to keep your guard up in an unfamiliar place.

The capitals are beautiful and can get quite touristy in the summers. As a result, you’ll want to watch your pockets in crowded areas in the Old towns of Riga and Tallinn. If you decide to hike through a National Park, remember to lock your car and/or take valuables with you.

A local connection (who took Eric for beers and dinner in Vilnius the first night he arrived) mentioned that you wouldn’t want to hang around the main train/bus station at night.

That said, is there any train station you WANT to hang around at night in any country? Not really. So, use common sense or ask locals/hotels/tour providers about what’s a good area or not!

Travel Insurance for the Baltics

When visiting the Baltic countries (or travelling in general) it’s usually a good idea to have travel insurance. This includes medical travel insurances and the coverage for things like lost baggage or delays.

If you aren’t already covered by a company plan, extended medical plan, or a credit card insurance plan, we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Travelling the Baltics: A Sample Baltic Itinerary

If you plan on travelling the Baltics, we want to help you out with a sample Baltic itinerary.

We’ve decided to write about it in the way that Eric did it – south to north. This means that you’d start in Vilnius, Lithuania and head through Latvia to Tallinn, Estonia.

old colourful building with Lithuanian flag on top travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay: 2 nights
  • How to Get There:   Bus from Warsaw, Poland is about 7 hours, could also fly into Vilnius.

Beginning the itinerary with a great first city, Vilnius is a rich city full of history around every turn. Eric explored the city on his own for most of the days he was there.

In that time, he explored the Hill of Three Crosses, Vilnius Cathedral, the Bell Tower among other attractions. If you wanted an actual guide (and not just wander as Eric did) then you can go on a Vilnius walking tour with a local guide .

When Eric stayed there, he stayed in Jimmy Jumps House Hostel . It was a great stay – the people were awesome, the staff were friendly and welcoming, the location is right in the centre of the city, and they even make you waffles for breakfast!

Accommodation for Vilnius:   Check for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

Trakai (and the Castle)

red brick castle in snow trakai travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay: Day Trip
  • How to Get There:  Bus from Vilnius, car would also be easy – takes about 40 minutes.

Whether it’s the summer or the winter, a day trip to Trakai (and to visit the Castle) is definitely worth your time.

Eric went in the wintertime and even though it was super cold, it was really cool to basically have the castle to himself! The town itself is situated on the lake so it’s beautiful in the summertime as well.

Trakai Castle was built in the 14th century and remains an important place for Lithuanians as a medieval stronghold and a symbolic place of where statehood is preserved.

There are lots of different exhibits and galleries within the castle so it’s worth the admission fee. You can learn more about the town and castle here .

Nearby, the town is filled with small shops, cafes, and restaurants. These were open in the wintertime and we can’t even imagine how busy (but lively) the town must be in the summer.

If you wanted to leave the car in Vilnius, you could always take a day tour to Trakai to make the journey and guided tour super simple. If you planned on staying in Trakai in the summer, there are resorts and guest houses available!

Accommodation for Trakai:   Check for guesthouse and resort deals !

  • Estimated Time to Stay:  1-2 Nights
  • How to Get There:   Train, Bus, or Car – all methods take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Vilnius.

Eric really only drove through Kaunas but his local friend who met him for dinner was from there. He explained that Vilnius, as the capital, was better for history and charm, whereas Kaunas was more lively with things to do for the younger crowds.

Obviously, there is a great deal of history in Kaunas with a castle, a monastery, cathedral, and many museums.

There are generally lots of cafes, restaurants, and shops in Kaunas as well as venues for music, etc. To learn more about Kaunas, check out the tourism website !

Accommodation for Kaunas:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

  • Estimated Time to Stay: 1 Night, or Pass Through on the way to Šiauliai. Could also Day Trip from Kaunas if necessary
  • How to Get There:  Car or Bus is best  – 2 hours on the highway from Kaunas

Heading out to the coast of the Baltic, you’ll find the port city of Klaipėda. Klaipėda is a historic city with seafaring roots that go back centuries.

The old wooden, German-style buildings along the ports serve as a charming backdrop for cruisers that arrive at the busy port.

Klaipėda is actually Lithuania’s third-largest city – and so there are lots of things to do from museums to restaurants, theatres and green space.

The National Park – Curonian Spit – is a massive sand dune located close to the city. You can learn more about visiting Klaipėda here .

Accommodation for Klaipėda:   Check for seaside hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

  • Estimated Time to Stay:  1 Night
  • How to Get There: From Klaipėda, Car is about 2 hours, Train varies from 2-3 hours, route/stops depending

As the fourth largest city in Lithuania, you might think there’s nothing left to see! That’s where Šiauliai proves you wrong.

While you’ll find many old museums in the city, the city is also a place of pilgrimage and served as a place of resistance to Soviet rule.

As a result, you’ll find the Hill of Crosses nearby to the city. On the Hill, there are over 100,000 wooden crosses that have been left there over the decades. It really is a sight to see and a place to be respected.

If you wanted to see the Hill of Crosses for yourself but weren’t planning on heading to Šiauliai on the way to Riga, consider a day trip from Vilnius for a Hill of Crosses Tour .

Accommodation for Šiauliai:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

old colourful town hall in riga old town square travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay: 2-4 Nights
  • How to Get There: Car from Šiauliai is just under 2 hours, Train from Šiauliai is just over 2 hours.

As the largest of the Baltic capitals, there is TONS to do in Riga! Eric loved the city when we did his trip – and he wants to bring Lisa there someday soon so she can experience it, too!

Riga is a fantastic mix of history with new-age shops, coffee places, restaurants, and style. You get hints of former Soviet rule mixed with progressive ideas from the young people.

Not to mention it has incredible buildings, cathedrals, monuments, and other must-see attractions (like the Space Monkey statue).

Given the amount of history to Riga (much of it being significant Soviet history) a walking  tour with an emphasis on Soviet tales might be for you! Besides that, there is lots of great food in Riga.

Eric tried the local cuisine of deep-fried bread at the traditional restaurant and beer hall. Now, if you are thinking “hmm, that would be delicious and definitely not healthy for you”… you’d be absolutely correct.

If you wanted to try other authentic cuisines, consider a food tour around Riga with a local guide who knows their stuff! We plan on writing up a whole other post on Riga soon so you’ll get lots more tips there.

As for a place to stay Eric stayed at Naughty Squirrel Backpackers . Technically a party hostel, it wasn’t as crazy as it sounds.

The staff were great, the people were nice, and the place was huge. You could lounge around or choose to socialise if you wanted. Bunks and rooms were huge and had amenities in the bunk which is always a nice detail.

Eric would definitely stay again for the tiny bar on hand and the free welcome shot of Latvian liqueur – Black Balsam!

Accommodation for Riga:   Check for great Riga hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

burgundy bobsled on podium travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay:  1 Night or Day Trip
  • How to Get There:  Just under an hour driving, just over an hour with the Train.

Sigulda makes a great day trip or a longer escape from the city. Known for dense forests, castles, and parks, the city has one other attraction that is well-known around the world. 

Sigulda is home to one of the world’s few operational bobsled tracks that are open to visitors – and you can ride a real bobsled down it!

Eric paid for the experience to be driven by a member of the Latvian sliding team – and WOW is it worth it!

The town itself is charming but the draw for people is the number of things to do that will excite you and keep you busy. You can learn more about Sigulda here .

Accommodation for Sigulda:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

  • Estimated Time to Stay:  Day Trip
  • How to Get There:   Train or Car both take about 40 minutes (train can be shorter or longer route depending)

If you’re done with Riga and want to check out more along the Gulf of Riga, then head to Jūrmala. This beach town is a resort city that lies just west of the capital making it a great day trip.

The city is known for its massive sandy beach that gets busy in the summers as people head there to cool off and hang out by the water.

The shore is lined with seaside villas and other shops made from wood seeming like they were plucked from another era!

There are also a few parks and wooded areas that are great for small walks and hikes. Learn more about visiting Jūrmala here .

Accommodation for Jūrmala:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

Pärnu + Soomaa Wetlands

  • Estimated Time to Stay: 1 Night
  • How to Get There:  Car or Bus are about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Riga (slightly longer from Sigulda or Jūrmala)

If you want to enjoy the Estonian version of Jūrmala, then head to Pärnu. Known for its Estonian sunshine and sandy beach, Pärnu Beach is a resort town with youthful vibes, cool art, and historical bathhouses scattered through the city. 

Pärnu is actually the fourth largest city in Estonia but the population balloons in the summertime with tourists and locals coming out to enjoy the water in Pärnu Bay.

From restaurants to nightlife there’s something for everyone. Check out more to do in Pärnu here .

Nearby, the Soomaa Wetlands are located in Soomaa National Park. The park itself is known for its high water. This makes the area great for canoeing and sighting wildlife.

Accommodation for Pärnu:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals !

medieval red rooftops in old town tallinn travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay: 2 or 3 Nights
  • How to Get There:   Car, Bus, or Train – just over an hour, 1.5 hours, or 2.5 hours, respectively, from  Pärnu

Oh, Tallinn. Such a beautiful city. Eric was lucky enough to be guided around Tallinn by his former flatmate from when he lived in Edinburgh.

Needless to say, having a local around was a great way to experience the city! It was great to have a local show Eric around – she’s even (since) written a guide on spending one day in Tallinn !

Tallinn is known for its Old Town. So, you should start off with a wander there. The bright rooftops and cobblestone alleyways transport you back into medieval times.

There is quite a bit of history and amazing restaurants, cafes, and churches in the area. We walked around with our local guide but you could hop on a bike and take a guided tour – might be lots faster and you’ll get some exercise!

If you are done with attractions in the city centre, you should visit the Tallinn Tv Tower which is located just a quick bus ride away. As the tallest building in Northern Europe, it’s a pretty great attraction that is worth the view for the price of admission!

Eric visited with his friend and even though the views were a little cloudy it was still amazing to see the countryside and the Baltic Sea! If you know you want to go in the high season – get a line skip ticket for the Tallinn Tv Tower .

As for sleeping, Eric stayed at Red Emperor Bar and Hostel.  For the price and the location, the hostel was good. There was a bar onsite (never got too crazy, just very social) with a lounge for loud and another one for quiet.

The rooms were standard – good lockers, good bunks, good bathroom facilities. The staff was very chill and you even get a beer with check-in!

The location is just outside the Old Town so like we said – it’s a good place to crash for a few nights and meet interesting people.

Accommodation for Tallinn:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

Lahemaa National Park

  • How to Get There:  Car, Bus, or even a Taxi – each take about 45 minutes one way from Tallinn

With a landscape and wildlife similar to Canada (they are at similar latitudes to parts of Northern Canada), Lahemaa National Park is a nature lover’s dream.

Lahemaa is just a short distance from Tallinn yet it’s such an important forested area for conservation in Northern Europe that includes hiking to rock cliffs, waterfalls, beaches, and even moose!

If you want to learn more about Lahemaa, you can check out the official website . To make the trip even more simple, you could make the day trip a day tour to Lahemaa from Tallinn with a guide.

Optional – Day Trip to Helsinki

white cathedral with green domes and stairs travelling the baltics

  • Estimated Time to Stay: Day Trip or Overnight Trip
  • How to Get There:  Ferry from Tallinn is 3 hours. Flying takes 30 minutes (Eric did it by accident – it’s a long story).

Ah yes, a Helsinki day trip from Tallinn. Taking the ferry to Finland is a great option if you’ve got a day to kill and you’ve seen everything in Tallinn and the surrounding area.

That said, we wrote a whole post on how to take the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki (and back) so check that out if you are interested!

Once you get to Helsinki, there is loads to do and see. Eric only had a few hours to explore the city but really wants to return with Lisa since she’s never been. I

f you want to know what to check out in Helsinki, read the guide written by our local connection Nick about  the perfect day in Helsinki ! That said if you DID want to sleep there, check below for great places to stay in Helsinki.

Accommodation for Helsinki:   Check Booking.com for hotel deals  or  Hostelworld for great hostels !

And there you have it – a few great ideas and a rough itinerary around the Baltics. In the end, there is so much to check out in these tiny countries that you’ll end up coming back for another trip or two.

This post was just to get you acquainted with the countries and the idea of travelling the Baltics! What do you think? Have you been to the Baltics or are you considering it? We can’t wait to get back there because Eric wants to show Lisa around! We’ll keep ya posted!

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Itinerary for Travelling the Baltics

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2023

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

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 (and buses are reliable and comfortable) and for some popular places nearby, 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 are using 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’s 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.

Tallinn Town Hall Square in Estonia

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 Old Town as seen from Toompea Hill

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.

Viru Gate in Tallinn Estonia

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.

Tallinn Old Town street

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 . Here you can find some of the best deals for car rental in Tallinn .

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.

Aerial view of Kuressaare Estonia

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 .

Kuressaare Old Town in Estonia

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.

Tartu Cathedral in Estonia

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 .

Tartu Town Hall Square in Estonia

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.

Cesis New Castle in Latvia

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.

Turaida Castle in Sigulda Latvia

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.

Sigulda New Castle Latvia

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.

View of Riga Old Town in Latvia

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.

House of the Blackheads in Riga Latvia

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.

Traditional buildings at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

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 .

Hill of Crosses near Siauliai in Lithuania

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.

Klaipeda Lithuania

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.

Curonian Spit in Lithuania is a must in any Baltics itinerary

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 .

Kaunas Lithuania

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 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.

Trakai Island Castle in Lithuania

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.

St. Anne's Church in Vilnius Lithuania

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.

Vilnius Cathedral and Bell Tower

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.

Old KGB prison cell inside the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights in Vilnius Lithuania

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.

Uzupis Angel in Vilnius Lithuania

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.

Hotel Narutis in Vilnius Lithuania

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.

Baltics travel itinerary map

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.

Baltic states in winter - Vilnius Christmas market

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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Traveling to the Baltics - trip itinerary for Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia

Image credits: personal collection, Toptravelsights.com , raigvi/Shutterstock.com, Wide Wings/Shutterstock.com, Chamille White/Shutterstock.com, and Depositphotos.com.

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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 personally always use this website for our car hire. 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.

What to Know Before You Travel to the Baltic Region

Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia

travel to baltic states

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.

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The Essential 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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The Essential Guide to the Baltic States

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.

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.

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.

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

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Baltic states

travel to 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

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.

Countries [ edit ]

North to south:

travel to baltic states

Other regions [ edit ]

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.

Cities [ edit ]

Capitals [ edit ].

travel to baltic states

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

Other [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

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 [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

  • 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

Understand [ edit ]

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.

History [ edit ]

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.

Religion [ edit ]

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.

Talk [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

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.

Get in [ edit ]

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

By plane [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

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.

By boat [ edit ]

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

By train [ edit ]

Rail connections are pretty shoddy, not to say awful and even not recommended. Vilnius is the entry hub for rail travelers from Warsaw , Kaliningrad and Belarus . All three capitals have at least daily connection to Moscow and St Petersburg . 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.

Get around [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

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 .

By bus [ edit ]

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.

None of the capitals have direct services between them, though each country has a usable and cheap domestic network. Most (if not all) lines radiate from the capital cities, and do not link up with each other. Riga to Tallinn can be traveled by train in one day by changing in Valga . As of Dec 2023, there is no service between Riga and Vilnius , but the Lithuanian national operator hopes to begin a direct service in 2024. [1]

By bicycle [ edit ]

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

By car [ edit ]

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%.

See [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

  • 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 [ edit ]

travel to baltic states

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

Do [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

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.

Drink [ edit ]

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

Stay safe [ edit ]

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.

Go next [ edit ]

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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travel to baltic states

Destinations

Experiences.

  • Photography

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.

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

travel to 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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

travel to baltic states

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A road trip through the Baltic States

Oct 9, 2019 • 4 min read

travel to baltic states

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral dominates the skyline in the Tallinn © kavalenkava / Shutterstock

Despite their geographical proximity, the cultures of the countries of the Baltic States are worlds apart. Lithuania , the last country in Europe to adopt Christianity, is packed with pagan history. Latvia  has incredible landscapes and many cultural layers. Estonia , with influences from nearby Finland, is known for its economic success. This road trip route starts in Vilnius and ends in the historic city of Tallinn, covering over 1000km. Each stage of driving takes around two to three hours. We recommend allowing two weeks to complete the route (although it's possible in 10 days). 

An empty beach stretches into the distance. Sand dunes covered in grass are on the right; the Baltic Sea is on the left

Lithuania: Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, Curonian Spit, Palanga

Start in Vilnius , the capital and most populated city in Lithuania. Here, you will want to visit the Old Town, a pastiche of baroque and Gothic architecture. Tour the atmospheric museum of art and history at the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and Gediminas Castle , a series of settlements dating back to Neolithic times.

Spend a few quiet hours in the quarter of Užupis . Nowhere is the city’s thriving spirit more evident that in this bohemian neighbourhood. It was here that a group of creative individuals jokingly decided to proclaim their independence, going as far as to draw up a mock constitution for their republic. The Lithuanian government has since gone along with the joke, allowing Užupis to remain independent, although the status is in name alone.

From Vilnius, make a brief stop 100km away in Kaunas , Lithuania’s second largest city, and European Capital of Culture for 2022. Kaunas Castle offers an insight into the country’s past, and the Museum of Devils , which is packed with masks and stories, outlines local traditions and folklore.  

Drive onwards to Klaipėda  (200km), which has a quiet and unassuming beauty that will immediately make an impression on you. An important point on several trading routes, this is one of the many Baltic cities that bears the mark of European merchants, especially those of German and Dutch descent. From here, take a ferry to the Curonian Spit , which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. This bewitching national park and Unesco Heritage Site is made up of sand dunes, pine forests and fishing villages. It can be visited as a day trip, but if you're keen to explore in depth, allow three days here.

The coastal city of Palanga is roughly a 30km drive from Klaipėda. It’s a popular destination for a day at the beach on the Baltic Sea, so expect the pier and cosy streets to be flooded with people.

A cobbled street opening out onto a larger square with buildings in red and blue, and a church spire rising above

Latvia: Ventspils and Rīga

From Palanga, cross the border into Latvia, heading towards Ventspils, nearly 200km away. It’s a classy coastal city drenched in Latvia’s past. Visit Ventspils castle, the oldest castle of the Livonian order , which has a local history and art museum.  

It’s approximately 190km from Ventspils to Latvia’s capital city, Rīga , which is cool, endlessly busy and a hotbed of activity at any hour. Bars, coffee houses, theatres and a thriving live music scene offer plenty of entertainment. Admire the art nouveau architecture at Alberta iela and be sure to grab some food for the road at Rīga Central Market . Rīga Cathedral is the largest medieval church in the Baltics, and historic Rīga Castle was first established back in 1330.

Exploring historic Rīga on a budget  

A view dominated by four huge domes of a cathedral, each topped with gold crosses. Large red-roofed buildings are in the foreground

Estonia: Pärnu and Tallinn

From Rīga, head north to approx 180km to Pärnu, the Estonians’ favoured summer destination. It’s graceful and classy, and very popular with Estonian, Russian and Finnish tourists. Relax in the cafes, stroll the cobblestone streets and enjoy the dune-covered beaches.

Onwards to Tallinn , which is only 120km away. The roads pass through seemingly never-ending woodland. If you have time, take the longer route via the coastal road, allowing you to make stops at various seaside spots on the way. 

Tallinn is a stylish and lively city, packed with impressive sights such the Gothic town hall , which dominates the Town Hall Sq . Stop by the graceful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , an onion-domed Russian Orthodox cathedral, to admire the frescoes. For a taste of traditional rural life, drive out to Estonia Open Air Museum , where you can visit historic buildings and experience activities such as blacksmithing and weaving.

While fiercely independent, there is a strong influence of Finnish culture in Estonia. Helsinki is only a ferry boat ride away from Tallinn’s shore , a trip you can make in a day if you book tickets in advance.

Tallinn by the seasons: a year-round guide to Estonia’s capital

Make it happen: driving info

Roads in the Baltic States are, for the most part, very well maintained. Traffic jams are infrequent, especially outside of the main cities. Be sure to drive on the right. There are plenty of parking spaces in the cities at both private car parks and meters. Expect to pay more for parking at meters that are closer to the city centre.

Four scenic drives in the Balkans

Contributor: Eduard Banulescu

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The Ultimate 10-Day Baltic Itinerary: How to Visit Baltics?

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.

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

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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

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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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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 

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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

travel to baltic states

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.

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?

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?

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

Photography Guide: 15 Best Photo Spots in Tallinn, Estonia

20 Best Photo Spots in Riga, Latvia + Photography Tips From a Local

20 Best Photo Spots in Riga, Latvia + Photography Tips From a Local

10 Best Day Trips from Riga, Latvia (Top Guided Tours Included!)

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… 

travel to baltic states

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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Baltic States

Baltic States Vacation Packages & Tours at -45%

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Get to know the very best of the Baltic capitals in this fully-guided magical adventure through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia; dive into their fascinating history and fairytale-like attractions.

Our recommendation to visit Baltic States and neighboring countries

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Tallinn · Baltic States

Well planned and efficiently executed by the tour guide

This was my first group tour and I was a little apprehensive. However, the tour was well organised and the guide efficiently executed the plan. Also ensured everybody’s needs were catered for. It was a pleasant and friendly trip.

UK (Exoticca UK)

Baltic States Travel guide

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Best time to visit Baltic States

Events and festivals in baltic states, food in baltic states, shopping in baltic states, baltic states tourist attractions.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Curonian Split

POINTS OF INTEREST

Sooma National Park

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Hill of Crosses

POINTS OF INTEREST

Valley of the Gauja river

POINTS OF INTEREST

More information about Baltic States

Sat on the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea , straddling the cultural spheres of both Scandinavia and Europe , the Baltic Countries  are composed of three modestly sized countries: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuanian . From Tallinn to cosmopolitan Vilnius and the party-haven of Riga , the Baltic Republics boast a vibrant array of historic attractions, untouched landscapes and medieval old towns, offering the traveller a distinctively different travel experience in comparison to other popular European city-break favourites.

Formerly part of the Soviet Union , today the three Baltic Republics are members of the European Union . A tour of the Baltic Countries is a journey through a diverse fusion of cultures, be it the Finnish flair of Estonia or the romantic German architecture of Lithuania. Fairytale forests and countryside, idyllic beach resorts, such as Jurmala in Latvia and quaint medieval old towns characterise a trip to the Baltic States , although it’s important to keep in mind that each sovereign nation has its own unique identities and traditions.

History of the Baltics States

Travel to Baltic Countries and uncover a vibrant and complex history. The Northern Crusades targetted the Baltic Republics in the 13th-century , although Lithuania emerged as a dominant power in the region, establishing the Kingdom, and later the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which held dominion in the Baltics until the 16th-century . This mighty kingdom stretched all the way from the Black to the Baltic Sea. The German- founded Hanseatic League played a huge role in the region during this period, dominating Baltic maritime trade along the coasts of northern Europe .

The Baltic Republics had close ties with their Nordic neighbours during the days of the Swedish Empire , still seen in elements of Baltic culture today, such as in the national cuisine, a highlight of any trip to the Baltic Republics. It was in the 18th-century that the Russian Empire expanded into the region, although following World War One they relinquished their claim, giving birth to the emergence of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania as we know them today.

This freedom would not last for long as the Soviet Union occupied and installed pro- Soviet governments in the Baltic Republics in 1940 , with the region suffering the tragedies of Nazi occupation over the following years. It was not until the late 1980s , following huge civil resistance against Soviet rule, culminating in the ‘ Baltic Way’ , a two-million strong human chain that stretched from Tallinn to Vilnius , that the Republics gained independence. Although not an official union, the three Baltic nations engage in intergovernmental cooperation and are often visited as a trio on a tour of the Baltic States.  

Nature in the Baltic States

Despite their small size, the Baltic Republics are home to a dizzying array of pristine natural landscapes. Imagine glistening lakes, long stretches of sandy coastline, wildlife-rich wetlands and dense forests. The Baltic Countries exemplify the idea of a pure, fairytale wilderness, where wolves, bears and lynx can be found in the most isolated corners of the republic. In fact, more than half of Estonia and Latvia are covered with dense forests, rich in legend and folklore. A holiday to the Baltic Countries is great at any time of year, depending on your prefered travel itinerary.

The seasons are distinct and travelling during the snowy winter months reveals the ornate beauty of the medieval old towns, whilst visits to the coastal resorts along the Baltic Sea or exploring the rich forest ecosystems are best suited to the glorious summer months. From the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit to the beach haven of Jurmala , the Baltic coast offers a distinctly different coastal landscape; idyllic, wild and breathtaking. A trip to the Baltic Republics is incomplete without exploring one of the 14 national parks , scattered throughout the three nations. Gauja National Park in Latvia is known for its epic cliffs and mysterious caves, whilst the watery wonderland of Aukštaitija National Park , in Lithuania is home to an amazing 126 lakes. 

Culture in the Baltic States

Finnic, European, Russian, Scandinavian and Germanic influences make the Baltic Countries  a fascinating travel destination. Throughout its vibrant history, allegiances, occupations and crusades the Baltic Republics have weaved a rich cultural tapestry. Each nation has its own official language, although the second language of most of the population is Russian . Whereas Lithuania and Latvia posses closer cultural ties with their German and Polish neighbours, Estonia has a distinctively Finnish flair, with the capital, Tallinn , said to share similarities with Helsinki , situated just across the Gulf of Finland.

Baltic peoples are known for their warm hospitality, their strong sense of community and their vibrant folklore, seen in the abundance of folk songs, dances and superstitions. Each state has its own traditions and customs, such as Lithuania’s elaborate Shrove Tuesday celebrations and cross carving, the Latvian enthusiasm for the annual summer solstice, known as Jāņi , and the Estonian art of bonfire jumping, performed on Midsummer Day. A tour of the Baltic States is the best way to experience the variety of each country in its own right.

Lesser-travelled, yes, but the Baltic Countries  are where fairytale castles, enchanting forests and dreamy coastlines combine. From forward-looking cities to medieval enclaves, complete with story-book turrets, the Baltic Republics fuse heaps of culture and history into an easily accessible area. Travel to the Baltic Republics , a destination not to be missed!

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Baltic states tour: our tips and travel budget

The Baltic countries are a wonderful and cheap destination in Europe. We give you here our travel budget and our tips to easily organize your itinerary

Last Update: 08/01/2024 4 COMMENTS

Being in Finland for a conference we wanted to extend the trip a little bit and take advantage of this “Nordic” getaway to return to Switzerland by taking our time. Very quickly, the Baltic countries emerged as a natural choice.

The idea was to leave Finland and travel to Switzerland by bus only and without making fixed plans. Traveling in winter, we still had to face some “logistical” and “climatic” constraints, but we will come back to that. In this article we will not talk so much about the destinations themselves (even if we still give you our must-see destinations by country and our favorites at the end), but instead we will focus on organizing a trip to the Baltic states .

baltic states tour

The itinerary, travel, accommodation, detailed budget, in short everything you may need to plan your stay as an independent traveler. Because yes, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are REALLY easy to travel to and it is not necessary to go through an agency to plan your perfect trip.

And if you want to have more information about destinations then we invite you to visit our special pages dedicated to Estonia , Latvia and Lithuania

Itinerary in the Baltic States

We will start this article with purely “logistical” aspects, how long to plan, when to go, and how to plan your itinerary… Later in the article we will talk about the budget and we will give you our best tips about Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

How long should you travel?

To this question I would obviously be tempted to answer you: “As long as possible!” 😉

But if we are a little rational, I would say that it takes 2 to 4 days for each capital to get a good overview. In addition, there are a few hours of transport and 3 to 8 days for some trips and excursions to see a little of the beautiful landscapes.

In short, I would say that 2 weeks in the Baltic States is good, 3 weeks is the best!

If you have only one week, I would advise you to limit yourself to only one country (or 2 capitals if necessary).

Which season to visit?

Winter in Estonia

For our part, we did it in the middle of winter (January-February). If we are 100% honest we loved the “off-season” aspect and the fact that we could benefit from attractive prices for accommodation. On the other hand, we won’t lie to you, the climate is not always easy and has made some nature getaways a little more complicated… Stay outside for 4-8 hours in a row at -10°C I guarantee you that it hurts.

In the cities themselves, this does not cause too many problems because there are cafés at every street corner, but in parks and nature reserves we sometimes seriously wondered what we had come here to do without feeling our fingers and feet.

If your hobby is cities, museums, local gastronomy then we recommend 100% in winter . You will be quiet in terms of people and the cities, even if it sometimes lacks a little sun, have a tremendous charm when they are covered in snow.

Afterwards, if you are more into nature and getaways, we would tend more towards a visit in spring or summer… The days are much longer and you won’t feel like you’re losing your toes on every trip. (At the summer solstice it is always daylight in Tallinn) 😉

linnahall tallinn

What are the options to Arrive in the Baltic States

There are many options to get to the Baltic countries! In our case we arrived by plane and left by bus… We have dedicated a special passage to buses later in this article so I suggest we talk about planes! (This is also often the easiest option if you come for 2-3 weeks).

If your idea is to make a roadtrip the best way to avoid unnecessary bus trips, it is often to start either from the north or south and therefore have 2 flights in separate airports.

To find this type of flight, we recommend that you use the excellent Kiwi platform . This is what we used when we were looking for our flights to Helsinki and which allowed us to find a cheap flight to Tallinn. In fact the idea of this platform is that you can enter several departure and arrival points and by looking at the map you can see immediately if there is not cheaper options in the area next to it…

For example, for us who come from Switzerland it is very convenient to be able to compare flights from Geneva, Zurich, Basel or even Lyon… Because in the end from home it doesn’t change much to go to one of these airports, but in terms of prices it can make a big difference.

Tip: If you want to come to Tallinn, consider including Helsinki in the selection…. During our research Tallinn was cheaper, but depending on the periods and offers Helsinki can be more advantageous (and from Helsinki you can reach Tallinn in 2 hours by ferry for 12€).

In terms of price, if you search a little and are flexible on the dates you can hope to find round trips from a hundred euros for the round trip, which is not bad! A quick example: A trip from Paris to Vilnius on May 11, back to Helsinki-Paris on May 30 for 116€.

look for chip flights kiwi

To try kiwi you can click here . 🙂

The other alternative to find cheap flights, which is the most well known, is of course still Skyscanner .

Our itinerary in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

As mentioned above, the most logical thing to do when coming to the Baltic States is to arrive at one end and leave at the other and thus save yourself too many “useless” bus/car rides. Whether you visit from north to south or from south to north doesn’t really matter if you want our opinion…

On our side, coming from Finland, we opted for a “descent” of the Baltic States, starting with Estonia.

NB: We will come back later in this article on means of transportation between cities

Things to see in Estonia

Tallin in the baltic countries

We based ourselves in the beautiful little town of Tallinn . We really fell in love with this small capital that has a human dimension and with its simply charming historical center. In terms of getaways, we only did day trips from the capital. On the one hand, the Keila Joa region for a short hike but also the Lahemaa National Park .

NB: Lahemaa National Park is really big and beautiful. If you come in summer it can be really nice to consider staying there for a night or two and explore the area a little more. And if you only have one day, we did this tour that was really great. We highly recommend it!

Do you have more time? We didn’t go there but heard a lot of great things about the city of Tartu which is apparently very charming and full of students. A young and dynamic atmosphere with a very important “cultural” scene.

The islands of Hiiuma and Saaremaa, which are located in the Baltic Sea, are very often recommended also for nature lovers and those who enjoy the great outdoors.

For hikers : Be aware that there are 2 hiking trails that cross Estonia in their entirety! Might as well explain that it excites us to come back in the summer to walk one of the two paths. Yes, because let’s face it, in the middle of January this option was clearly excluded. If you want to know more you can find information directly on the website of the Estonian Forestry Authority which created these trails.

The route from Oandu to Aegviidu: 375km from Lahemaa to Riga. More infos here

The Peraküla-Aegviidu-Ähijärve itinerary: 820km across the country. More infos here

Things to see in Latvia

art nouveau riga

In Latvia too, we have decided to base ourselves in the beautiful capital Riga . Latvia is most likely the Baltic country we visited the less… Not because we didn’t like it, but at the time of our visit we had a lot of work to do and also because the weather didn’t helped during our visit.

Turaida castle

But you can rest assured that we have seen some nice things, especially our trip to the small town of Sigulda . There we made a nice hike to discover the castles of Sigulda and the one of Turaida.

Turaida is THE most visited spot in Latvia it seems… So the good news is: in a cold winter day it doesn’t really feel like it! 😉 We were exactly 4 visitors throughout the site (and 4 employees if I’m not mistaken).

If you come in summer (or simply when it is not -14 like the day of our visit) we would advise you to stay a little more than a day in the area! There are many hiking trails that we would have liked to explore and especially small dream camping spots on the banks of the Gauja River. But we tell you more about it in our article .

Things to see in Lithuania

Lithuania started out well! We had barely crossed the border that we had already arrived in the small town of Siauliai. 😉

this spot is known mainly for the Hill of Crosses; an absolutely UNIQUE place that you can read about here .

Hill of crosses lithuania

After this small stop we went towards Vilnius. We already knew this city a little bit for having already passed through it in 2015, and one thing is for sure we still love it as much! The historic center is great, but it is above all its arty and offbeat side that we love the most. More information about Vilnius .

Vilnius street art

Lithuania is a country to which we will most probably return one day! If you have more time, here is a small list of sites and cities that are apparently very nice (but that we haven’t seen yet):

  • The city of Kaunas : Second city of the country and located on the banks of the Neman River it seems full of charm!
  • The small town of Klapeida : A small port city combining German and Scandinavian architecture. It is best known for its Sea Festival, which is held every year on the last weekend of July.
  • Curonian Spit : In this case some pictures of Google Images made me want to go there! A natural destination with breathtaking landscapes! The Curonian Spit is a Lithuanian and Russian peninsula about a hundred kilometres long (and between 400m and 4km wide) that separates the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon.

Our trip to Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia in video

Before starting with the budget for a trip to the Baltic States, we suggest you a well-deserved break from reading this article with our video of this trip.

NB: if you want to know if we suffered from the cold we let you watch the video until the end for the bonuses 🙂

Travel budget for the baltic states

Let’s get down to business… How much does it cost to travel to the Baltic States?

As is often the case with budgets, it is a matter of tastes, colours and lifestyles… But what is certain is that the Baltic countries are really very affordable countries in Europe. Accommodation, food and activities are generally much cheaper than in France (we won’t even try to compare this to Switzerland) 😉

During our trip we realized that over the years our budget had increased a little bit compared to our round the world trip (we had already been through Vilnius… and this time we clearly spent more) 😉

The main reason for this is probably that now we are only travelling… We are also working! In short, we do not hesitate to spend a little more on better accommodations in which we can work and also, with an income, we are a little less strict on our excursions and activities… Even if we are and remain backpackers who travel on a low budget!

Travel budget in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania:

travel budget estonia , latvia and lithuania

Some notes:

  • In all we spent 26 days in the Baltic countries
  • But we didn’t travel full time…. Several days were working days, where we tended to spend less.
  • In Tallinn and Riga we had taken an apartment while in Vilnius we were in a youth hostel and in Siauliai we had taken a small hotel. (More information on accommodation)
  • Our budget in Tallinn is a little higher, but it’s not so much because it’s more expensive… It’s more because we did more activities (purchase of the TallinnCard 74€, excursion to Lahemaa 110€). See our detailed Tallinn budget
  • In Vilnius we really slept for cheap (and it was a mistake) but on the other hand we made up for it with restaurants and drinks ;). See more details on our budget in Vilnius. NB: Our budget for Lithuania above is higher than the one of Vilnius in the other article because it also includes Siauliai and the bus from Siauliai to Vilnius.

Practical information for the Baltic States

Below you will find a wide range of practical information to help you plan your trip to the Baltic States. If a point is not covered or you have a question, do not hesitate to leave us a comment at the end of the article! We try to keep all our articles up to date over the months and are always happy to add new information that we may have forgotten!

Moving between and around the Baltic capitals

In public transportation.

The bus network is really good in the Baltic countries! No, seriously, the transports are just crazy! Wifi in almost all buses, plugs at each seat, USB charger (and there I am talking about the main lines but also some local transport buses!!!!).

In short, there are not 10,000 explanations to give on this subject, in the sense that if you want to rally the different capitals, there will clearly be no shortage of options! At the company level, there are several companies that are active. Some only in some countries, others on the 3 countries.

travel by bus

Our advice here would always be to go directly to the company websites to buy tickets (they all offer an English version of their website) and avoid bus comparators. It had only rarely shocked us before, but on this trip we noticed that after having passed on a comparator to see which companies were making the connection we found ourselves with a cookie that raised the prices from 3€ to 5€ (even once back on the official website). On a 12€ race it makes a big difference!

To help you a little bit here is a list of the companies we have used or know that they make the links and their website (PS: these links are not affiliated in any way, so promise no risk of seeing prices go up by clicking on them) 😉

  • From Tallinn to Riga we used Ecolines (16,5€ per person… but by booking in advance tickets are available tarting at 5€!)
  • From Riga to Siauliai we took Ollex . (12€ per person)
  • From Siauliai to Vilnius we took Busturas (9€ per person)

There is also the company LUX Express (we took it from Vilnius to Warsaw, but it also operates between all the capitals of the Baltic countries).

Eurolines is another company that operates in almost all of Europe and has a strong presence in Lithuania and Latvia (but not in Estonia)

Useful infos

If you don’t have as much time as we do and you want to take advantage of the trip between the different capitals to visit some nice places on the way, an agency offers small group transportation (max. 8 people) that stops to discover some nice places between the capitals of the Baltic countries:

Hill of crosses

Tallinn – Riga tour bus (in both directions): This route includes a visit to the ruins of the medieval castle of Viljandi, the Gauja River Nature Reserve and the small town of Cesis, as well as a Soviet bobsleigh run. You can book it here. Note: this is a group price, thus the more you are, the cheaper it gets

  • Riga – Vilnius tour bus  (in both directions): the bus passes through the impressive Hill of Crosses (which we visited by ourselves and which is not so easy to access), the magnificent palace of Rundale and also walk around the old town of Kaunas. You can book it here .

Frankly, we loved our day with this agency and we really think you can trust them.

Roadtrip in the Baltic States by car

As we told you, we decided to do it by public transport because we wanted to test this mode of travel and because it was super cheap…

After that if you have a car then it’s totally great too! Having a car obviously allows even more flexibility on stops along the way and to be even more responsive to the weather fluctuations 😉

If you do not plan to drive up to the Baltic countries by car it is totally possible to rent one. The best way to do this is probably to compare prices via Rentalcars . Our advice: It will be cheaper to return the car to the same place you took it, but if you plan to do all 3 countries it will also involve a lot of “double” roads. In short, try to run simulations to see the price difference by returning the car to another city, the difference could be “acceptable” if travel time and fuel are taken into account.

Check it on Rentalcars

Accommodation in Tallinn, Riga or Vilnius

There are many accommodation options and there are really something for every style of travel and every budget.

appartement tallinn

For our part, we decided to take apartments in Tallinn as well as in Riga because we wanted to be able to work a little “at home”. An option that has suited us well and especially for a fairly reasonable budget. In Tallinn we had taken a studio that cost us 28€ per night while in Riga we had opted for a great 2 room apartment in the centre for 32€ per night.

After that it is important to know that apartement rentals rates fluctuate with the seasons and for the moment we have clearly taken advantage of the low season to have nice accommodations at really moderate prices.

In Siauliai we didn’t really look for anything special… we took the first cheap thing and near the bus station that we found on Booking . We only stayed for one night and we just wanted to go and see the hill of crosses. So we ended up at Turne Guesthouse which was a decent option.

In Vilnius we stayed in a youth hostel. This was probably not the most strategic choice we made… Certainly it was not expensive (5,9€ per night and per person in a dormitory in which there were…14 people!) but the place is quite festive and noisy. In short, if you don’t spend too much time there (and especially if you don’t plan to work) it’s ok, but for us it wasn’t the best option.

To look for a place to stay we recommend you compare the different options (apartments and hotels). To do so you can use the map below. Simply zoom in to the city/area of your choice and adjust the different filters according to your wishes:

Our highlights of this trip

We really loved this trip and there were many favorites! 😉 But if we only had to choose 5 of them, then our small selection could be something like:

The muffled and mystical atmosphere at the hill of crosses near Siauliai

We already wanted to come here in 2015 but due to lack of time we had to skip it. So this year it was impossible for us to miss it! And we really don’t regret it! Even if the city of Siauliai doesn’t have anything special for tourists, this hill is really a place to see!

colline aux croix, Lituanie

The beautiful old town of Tallinn

First step of our trip and first big crush… Impossible to describe, but Tallinn is simply a city in which we felt at home! We’ll come back for sure!

vue kiek in de kök

The arty and offbeat scene of Vilnius

This was our 2nd visit to Vilnius and this time we did a little less walking around the historic city center but we focused more on the Uzupis district and the Streetart scene… A real treat!

srteet art vilnius - au fil de l'eau

The Lahemaa national park

We only spent one day in this park but we clearly left from there thinking that we would have liked to see more! In summer it must be really sublime to walk or cycle here.

Read our article about lahemaa

käsmu village des capitaines

The great offer of free walking tours in the capitals

We had already done quite a few Free Walking tours in South America and it’s really a concept we love! In Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius we really enjoyed the tours. In our opinion, this is an excellent way to start your stay because they generally give a good overview and also a good historical context.

Arty Vilnius

For those who don’t know the idea is to go to tours that are usually held every day at a fixed time. A guide is there and makes a visit on a topic. To attend it you do not need to register but simply to be on time for the appointment. Participation is “free” in the sense that you will not be asked for a fixed amount, but if you liked the tour tips are welcome. The amount is up to you, but since we were asked the question quite a bit, we usually leave between 5€ and 10€ per person (depending on whether we really liked it or not and also depending on the size of the group).

There are many Free walking tour companies and if you want our opinion the quality of the tours does not depend on the reputation of an agency but more on the guide who will be present that day (this usually varies quite a bit).

This time I think you know everything (or almost everything)! 🙂 If you have any questions or good tips, don’t hesitate to leave us a little comment at the bottom of this article.

NB: This article contains affiliate links such as Kiwi , Booking ou encore Hostelworld . These are services we also use for our bookings and by using our link you don’t pay anything more but you allow us to earn a small commission. 🙂 Thank you for your support!

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About Benoit

Self-taught web developer and passionate photographer, I love travelling and hiking for this incredible feeling of freedom they bring me. Curious, I constantly need to learn new things, to take on new challenges and I couldn't live any other way. I share with you on this travel blog my experiences on the roads but also my thoughts to travel better while respecting our beautiful planet (which is unfortunately in a very bad shape).

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Reader Interactions

travel to baltic states

4 years ago

I enjoyed your information about buses and b n b. I liked the pictures, too.

3 years ago

What a charming travel blog! I am excited to visit these countries I hope in the not too distant future.

travel to baltic states

Great information. We are looking for post-pandemic destinations and you’ve put the Baltic countries at the top of our list. I’m reading Stephen Kotkin’s biography of Stalin and all these countries have a prominent role leading up to WW2 so that is also a draw. Do you have any information about Finland or the practicalities of adding St. Petersburg to a Baltic itinerary?

travel to baltic states

Glad our posts helped you put the Baltic countries on your travel list. From Estonia you can easily reach Finland and Helsinky by boat (takes around 2 hours from Talin) and you’ll find a few blog posts about Finland on our blog. But we didn’t go to St. Petersbourg so we can’t help you for this 🙁

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travel to baltic states

Best Time to Visit the Baltic States

Soomaa-National-park-tour

Photo credit: Sven-Zacek.

You might wonder when is the best time to visit the Baltic States. Well, it depends if you want to travel in the peak touristy season and warmer summer days or avoid the crowds, stay on budget and travel off season. No matter when you decide to go, each season has its own pros and cons. Below you can read about what we think is the best time to visit the Baltics and what you can expect during each season. 

Great-Kemeri-Bog-Boardwalk

Photo credit: Artis Veigurs

Visiting the Baltic States in Spring

Spring is a lovely time, temperatures turn, days are getting longer and nature is coming to life. It’s also the time when there are still fewer crowds but the weather is already warming up. March and April can be still quite chilly with some snow and colder temperatures but when May hits, things start to change. May is one of our favorite months as usually it’s already quite warm, flowers are blooming, birds are singing but you won’t see too many tourists. It’s a perfect time to plan your Baltic trip. Visiting the capital cities is a great way to spend your Baltic States tour but even national parks are worth visiting then. 

Early spring is especially great for birdwatchers as swans, ducks and gees are moving into the wetlands and shallow bays. If you’re lucky, up in Estonia, it’s also possible to see the northern lights. Of course this doesn’t happen very often and you need a good camera to spot them, but it’s possible. Late March and early April is also the time when the spectacle of the 5th season in Estonia takes place. This phenomenon is basically an annual flood and local people have found inventive ways to enjoy this unique season. In Soomaa National Park you can canoe around the half-drowned forests and meadows and admire this one of a kind world. In Tuhala Witches’ Well, the water overflows from the well at a speed of 100 litres per second, creating a unique natural phenomenon.   

Soomaa-National-park-Tour

Photo c redit: Jarek Jõepera

Late spring is great for hiking and admiring nature in full bloom. Everything is turning bright green, flowers and trees are blooming and the sun is shining (hopefully). Walking around in the apple or cherry orchards, parks or forests always soothes the sight, lights up the mood and lets you unwind from everyday problems. Sometimes late spring can already be warm enough to enjoy the beach weather and go swimming, especially in Lithuania, which warms up the quickest.

Visiting the Baltic States in Summer

Summer is a special time in the Baltic States. Due to their location, summers are drenched in daylight. Estonia, being the most northern country, has the longest days and darkness barely descends for the months of June and July. Besides long days, the temperatures are also getting warmer, with July being the hottest month. Of course the temperatures compared to other southern countries still remain relatively mild, so during heatwaves, Baltic States are a perfect getaway to escape the heat. 

Jurmala-beach

Offering pristine sandy beaches with a cooling Baltic sea breeze Baltic States should be on everyone’s list of places to go during summer. Lithuania, being the most southern country, usually has the warmest temperatures. Although Lithuania has the least amount of coastline, they still have nice beaches on the western side of the country offering plenty of swimming and beach holidays spots. There are plenty of these around in Latvia and Estonia, with Estonia also offering plenty of island escape options. Did you know, that you could even rent a private island in Estonia, all for yourself for the day?   

Although summer is the most expensive and popular time to visit the three countries, it’s still not as expensive as other western countries and definitely not as crowded. Being considered still as off the beaten path destinations, the Baltic countries are great for anyone who wants to avoid crowds, admire pristine nature, taste delicious food and discover the rich history and fascinating customs. Book your Baltic tour now: 

Baltic States Trip Ideas

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Classic Baltic Tour

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Complete Baltic Holiday

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Baltic Christmas Tour

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Visiting the Baltic States in Autumn

Autumn in the Baltic States can be surprising. If you’re lucky you can experience a very nice, colourful and warm autumn but at the same time it usually sees the most amount of rain. This is also the time when the days are getting shorter, hotel prices lower and there are lesser crowds. It is the time to admire the colourful trees and try out the much loved pastime in the Baltic States – foraging. During autumn you can find people wandering around the forest picking different mushrooms and berries. If this is something you’d like to try yourself, then there are plenty of tours dedicated to foraging, just let us know and we can add it to your Baltic States tour package.

Turaida-castle-trip

Don’t let the rain and darkness scare you, there are still plenty of things to do during your Baltic tour. Bogshoe hiking is great during autumn as you really see the beautiful colours of the bogs and forests. It’s also great for migratory bird watching and again if you’re lucky, up in Estonia, the northern lights are the most active then. If being outdoors isn’t your thing, then all three countries have plenty of spa options and even whole towns dedicated to spa holidays. This is also an excellent time for classical music concerts, museum visits and tasting Baltic food, with autumn offering the most amount of seasonal products.        

November is probably one of our least favourite months to travel to the Baltic States as the weather isn’t very nice then and the days are short. As December hits, things seem to change a bit. Although it’s the darkest month, the Christmas lights and all the decorations seem to cheer up locals and foreigners alike. In good years it’s also the time when the first proper snow falls down and people are getting excited about the upcoming snowy winter. 

Tallinn-Christmas-Market

Photo credit: Sergei Zjuganov

Visiting the Baltic States in Winter

Winters in the Baltic States are cold, dark and long. That being said, it’s also the perfect time for all the winter fun and activities. The snow-covered cities and small towns look like something out of a fairytale. Although you might not find mountains in the Baltic States to do mountain skiing, there are plenty of options for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, husky safaris and other fun activities in the snow. There’s just something magical about exploring the snow covered winter wonderland. Whether it’s wandering around in the UNESCO listed old towns, exploring the Christmas markets, winding streets and narrow alleyways, having a hot drink in one of the cosy cafes or leaving the city’s hustle and bustle behind to explore the forests, bogs and coastline, winter in the Baltics won’t disappoint.

In conclusion, there are pros and cons for each season but whenever you decide to travel to the Baltic States, you won’t be disappointed. There is plenty to see and do there for the whole year. Just contact us for more information and let us make your dream trip to the Baltic States come true. 

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BALTIC TRAVEL BLOG

Baltic tours & travel by local expert, how to travel between the baltic states, april 18, 2016 baltictravelservices comments 0 comment.

The three Baltic states have become the top destination for European travel breaks. With similar, but still diverse cultures, alive ancient traditions and new economies, the Baltic states are must visit for those who seek unique impressions and pristine experiences.

Bearing in mind the fact that travel outside of the capitals – Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius might be difficult based on the shortage of communication possibilities and information signs in English, the Baltic countries are the best to be discovered by organized  tailor-made private tour .   For those who prefer to discover the Baltics on their own, useful will be information about how to travel between the Baltic states.

Traveling between Baltic capitals

The most frequently asked question by travelers is regarding train connections between Baltic countries.  Travelers from West Europe and other countries expect to have fast train connections between all three capitals, which is a misleading opinion. There isn`t direct train connection neither fast trains.

In a couple of years, the situation promises to improve by Rail Baltica project with a goal to connect Tallinn – Riga – Kaunas – Warsaw-Berlin and in few years time and integrate Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in the European railway network.

The whole project is in progress and real building works will start in 2020 and to open the connection Tallinn – Riga – Kaunas already in 2025. The maximum speed for passenger trains is planned to be 240 km/h and the train trip between Tallinn and Lithuania/Poland border is estimated to be around 4 hours.

While waiting for the Rail Baltica project acquires physical proportions, there are two alternatives: coach traffic by Lux Express and Simple Express buses and well-scheduled flights by local airline company AirBaltic.

Despite the good public transportation network between Baltic capitals, the private transfer is still one of those services to consider. While scheduled buses will take travelers from one destination to another with 1-2 stops in between, private transfer is excellent option for those who would like to discover some of the most visited sights in the Baltics like Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Sigulda and Turaida Castle, which are located conveniently on the way between Lithuania and Latvia and Estonia and are easy to discover by private transfer stopover in these spots.

Traveling between the local cities

The quality of local coaches between the cities is quite different and depends on the route. From Tallinn to the largest cities in Estonia like Tartu and Parnu is available already mentioned Lux Express coaches with top quality, while in other routes between local cities in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania services are divided between different service providers and quality of the coaches might vary.

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Escorted Baltic Tours

Variety of baltic states tours.

Ranging from 6 to 15 days, for every season and budget. All Baltic tours include stays in the capital cities of Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia) and Vilnius (Lithuania) and  day trips to charming countryside

All our tours are guaranteed. They are offered in 6 different languages (English, German, Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese). Depending group participants most tours are bilingual and guests are normally from a number of different countries. Other guests with the same languages may join in or may leave during a tour.  We offer all-around-year guaranteed city breaks related to some of the main cultural and seasonal events in the region  

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ESCORTED BALTIC TOURS

Grand Baltic Adventure

Grand Baltic Adventure

Tour the Baltic Capitals, smaller towns and Baltic countryside ❖ Travel by motorcoach ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 21 people ❖ Tallinn, Lahemaa, Tartu, Grasi, Daugavpils, Vilnius, Kaunas, Nida, Liepaja, Riga

Baltic Impressions

Baltic Impressions

Tour the Baltic Capitals, smaller towns and Baltic countryside ❖ Travel by motorcoach ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 26 people ❖ Riga, Tallinn, Lahemaa, Tartu, Grasi, Daugavpils, Vilnius

Baltic Classical Tour

Baltic Classical Tour

Tour the Baltic Capitals, smaller towns and Baltic countryside ❖ Travel by motorcoach ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 26 people ❖ Vilnius, Kaunas, Nida, Liepaja, Riga, Parnu, Tallinn

Baltic Highlights

Baltic Highlights

Tour of three Baltic countries - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia ❖ Travel by motorcoach ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 36 people ❖ Local sightseeing in small groups ❖ Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn

Baltic Metropoles

Baltic Metropoles

Tour of three Baltic countries and the capital of Finland Helsinki ❖ Travel by motorcoach ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 36 people ❖ Local sightseeing in small groups ❖ Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki

Capitals of the Baltic Sea

Capitals of the Baltic Sea

Explore Scandinavian and Baltic Capitals ❖Travel by motorcoach and ferries ❖English speaking tour escort and local guide ❖Group size - max. 30 people ❖Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius

Capitals by the Baltic Sea, Karelia and Helsinki

Capitals by the Baltic Sea, Karelia and Helsinki

Tour of the Baltic Capitals, Karelia and the capital of Finland Helsinki ❖ Travel by motorcoach and ferry ❖ Bilingual tour escort and English-speaking local guide ❖ Group size - max. 36 people ❖ Local sightseeing in small groups ❖ Riga, Parnu, Tallinn,  Helsinki, Lappeenranta

JEWISH HERITAGE BALTIC TOURS

Baltic Jewish Heritage Tour

Baltic Jewish Heritage Tour

VILNIUS - PONAR – TRAKAI - ZIEZMARIAI – KAUNAS – KEDAINIAI – PAKRUOJIS - RUNDALE – RIGA - PARNU TALLINN Learn the history and heritage of the Jewish people in the Baltics, visit Jewish museums, community centers, and synagogues along with famous landmarks in Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn English speaking guide Group size - max. 10 pax

Jewish Heritage Baltic Tour

Jewish Heritage Baltic Tour

Vilna - Jerusalem of Lithuania

Vilna - Jerusalem of Lithuania

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Baltic Metropoles Private  Tour

Baltic Metropoles Private Tour

Private tour of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Finland includes sightseeing tours of Old Towns of the four capitals as well as the countryside and cities in between the capitals. Enjoy the luxury of private touring.

Classical Baltic  Private Tour

Classical Baltic Private Tour

This Private Baltic Tour includes centrally located hotels in each city, sightseeing tours with a private guides in Vilnius, Klaipeda, Tallinn and Riga, transfers in private cars/minivans with English speaking drivers, private transfers to/from airports, private local guides.

Baltic Highlights Private Tour

Baltic Highlights Private Tour

8 exciting days filled with Baltic highlights, starting in Vilnius, the vibrant Lithuanian capital. Continue to Riga stopping at the unique Hill of Crosses, and baroque Rundale palace. After exploring the Latvian capital, continue to your final destination, Tallinn with one of the best preserved medieval old towns in Europe! Enjoy private intercity transfers and your private local guides.

Baltic Lifestyle Private Tour

Baltic Lifestyle Private Tour

TALLINN-VIHULA-TARTU-MARCIENA -DAUGAVPILS-VILNIUS-LIEPAJA-RIGA- New 2019 program. Extensive Baltic itinerary off the beaten track with a private guide in 1st class private car, exploring Baltic capitals and charming Baltic towns in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The luxury of private touring!

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Ukraine war: Why the Baltic states on NATO's frontline with Russia are urging their allies to 'wake up'

A growing number of people in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are volunteering to serve in the military as fears grow Vladimir Putin may attack a member of NATO - but their ability to deter the Russian president may depend on whether the citizens of other allies follow suit.

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Security and Defence Editor @haynesdeborah

Saturday 2 March 2024 13:07, UK

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NATO Baltic States

The Baltic states have an urgent message for the UK and other NATO allies about the threat posed by Russia: "Wake up! It won't stop in Ukraine."

Estonia , Latvia and Lithuania are teaching more of their citizens how to fight and have even announced plans to build a defensive line, including bunkers, along hundreds of miles of border that separates their territories from their much larger neighbour.

Now, as concern grows within NATO about the potential for large-scale conflict returning to Europe, Sky News has travelled from northeast Estonia to southwest Lithuania to hear from soldiers, civilians and politicians who are preparing for a war they hope never to fight.

As former members of the Soviet Union, the Baltics have been sounding the alarm about the existential menace posed by Moscow ever since they joined the NATO alliance two decades ago.

Back then, though, no one really listened.

Instead, the UK and other allies were focused on the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan - countering insurgents and Islamist militants is a very different type of fight than a conventional war against a peer enemy like Russia .

Adding to a collective erosion in NATO's defences, many European states, including Britain, significantly reduced stockpiles of Cold War-era weapons, such as tanks, artillery and ammunition, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, mistakenly believing they no longer needed to be ready to fight a war of survival at a moment's notice.

Russia's earlier invasion of Ukraine in 2014 , with the capture of Crimea and seizure of swathes of the Donbas, started to change that calculation - but only very slowly.

People in Moscow wave flags bearing the face of Vladimir Putin as they show their support for Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Pic: Reuters

The concept of 'deterrence by denial'

The alliance agreed to bolster its defences along the eastern flank of the Baltic states and Poland, with the deployment in 2017 of units of allied troops to all four countries - around 800 soldiers to each nation.

But this was done relatively cautiously - to minimise the risk of triggering an escalation of tensions directly between Moscow and the West as plenty of NATO states, including France and Germany, still had relatively close ties with Russia and did a lot of business.

As a result, the limited mission was not designed to prevent an invasion, but rather to provide a "tripwire" should Russian forces attack that would trigger a much larger allied response to then push them back out.

However, Vladimir Putin's full-scale war in Ukraine on 24 February 2022 fundamentally altered that thinking too.

The allies realised once Russian troops had entered a country it would take a lot more effort to eject them, so they agreed to beef up their eastern defences even more and expanded them into four other nations.

The aim today is to prevent Russia from ever trying to invade - a concept known as "deterrence by denial".

Throughout this evolution, the loudest voices inside NATO - urging allies to go further, faster and raising the alarm about Russia's intentions - have been Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

They have also been amongst the strongest supporters of Ukraine and have warned that if Moscow prevails over Kyiv, it will likely try to test NATO's defences next.

The site of a shopping centre in Kyiv that was bombed weeks after Russia's invasion in 2022. Pic: Reuters

A potential soft spot for any Russian attack

The city of Narva lies on Estonia's northeastern tip - right next door to Russia.

A vast, medieval castle, with large, stone walls and an Estonian flag fluttering high, stands at one edge of the city, next to a river that marks the border.

On the opposite bank is a second, similarly grand, historic castle, but it flies a Russian flag.

A crossing point, called the Friendship Bridge, connects Narva with the Russian city of Ivangorod.

It is only open to pedestrians after the Russian authorities closed their end to vehicle traffic for construction work at the start of February.

A historic castle in Estonia flies a Russian flag

Arnold Vaino, a police officer with the Estonian border guard, walked us on to the bridge, stopping just short of a red post that marks the halfway point and the start of Russia.

He recalled how he felt on the day the Kremlin launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine.

"Nobody feels comfortable when you hear that war has started," he said. "But [we don't feel] scared, for sure. But you open your eyes more wide."

In an indication of the complexities of the geography and history of the region, the majority of residents in Narva speak Russian and some are sympathetic to Moscow.

It makes the city a potential soft spot for any Russian attack under the guise of coming to the aide of the Russian nationals who live in Narva.

Read more: A day of rage in Kyiv on war anniversary Where will Russia target next? Mourners defy Kremlin at Navalny funeral

Any such move, though, would trigger an allied response under one of the founding principles of NATO - an attack on one is an attack on all.

There is no sense of fondness for the Russian government in most other parts of Estonia, including an island of about 9,000 people off the country's western coast.

NATO commanders believe that Hiiumaa island could be another potential target for Moscow in any war with the West because of its strategic location in the Baltic Sea.

If Russian troops were to seize the territory, they would potentially have the ability to block access to the sea and isolate the Baltic states.

Such a prospect is one that the islanders are doing all they can to deter.

Estonian volunteers urge British civilians to learn to fight

We met a unit of citizen soldiers, faces painted army green, as they practised ambushes with rifles in the forest.

The volunteers - many of them middle-aged dads and the odd mum - are dubbed "the SAS" because they train on Saturdays and Sundays .

Estonia's weekend warriors are knowns as the 'SAS' because they train on Saturdays and Sundays

They said British civilians should also consider getting off their sofas and learning how to fight.

"It's wrong to think that somebody else is coming to fight your war if you are not ready to defend yourself," said Major Tanel Kapper, who commands the Estonian Defence League forces on the island.

Estonian military chiefs have doubled the size of their territorial defence force - the people who would support the much smaller professional army in a crisis - to 20,000 personnel after what Russia did in Ukraine two years ago.

That number comprises about 10,000 Defence League volunteers and the new addition of some 10,000 former conscript soldiers who are part of the military reserve.

'We will kill as many of you as possible'

Polishing part of a rifle back at his base, a volunteer called Taavi, a father of two, said he decided to join the Defence League on Hiiumaa island along with about 14 friends last year in part as a response to the Ukraine war.

The construction worker said he did not want conflict, but was ready for combat if Russia invades.

"I have to take the weapon and try to protect my family, my home," he said.

Deborah Haynes

Major Kapper had a warning for Moscow: "It will be a bloody mess if you come here. We will definitely kill as many of you as possible."

As for whether he had a message to other NATO countries like the UK that maybe are not doing as much to bolster their defences, the officer said: "To wake up. It won't stop in Ukraine. If we don't stop them, then they will come further and further."

Latvian volunteers train at a base near Belarus

Latvia bulking up its military due to Russia threat There is a similar sense of urgency in next door Latvia, which reintroduced conscription last year after becoming the only Baltic state to halt mandatory military service in 2006.

The country plans to double the size of its armed forces - professionals and reserves - to 61,000 by 2032.

"War [in Ukraine] is already happening, so it's not a question: is Russia going to be aggressive? It already is aggressive," said Krisjanis Karins, the Latvian foreign minister.

"The point of the draft is to beef up capable and equipped and trained reservists," he told Sky News in an interview on the sidelines of a major security conference in Munich in February.

"It's not replacing the professional army, it's augmenting the professional army."

Asked whether it would make a difference if the UK instated conscription, Mr Karins, a former prime minister, said: "I think it would make a difference if any European country and of course the larger countries, it would make a bigger difference."

Sky News was invited to visit a training base in southeast Latvia, close to its border with Belarus, a close Russian ally, where a mix of conscripts and other recruits were going through a three-week basic training course with the National Guard.

Latvian volunteers would offer support to the regular military during a time of war

'Every man needs to at least try military life'

The National Guard is a branch of the armed forces that is made up of volunteers. At a time of war, they would offer support to the professional military.

"Bam! Bam! Bam!" the recruits shouted, rifles raised, mimicking the sound of gunshots, as they practised a response to an ambush on a muddy shooting range surrounded by forest.

Eduard, 18, was one of seven conscripts among the group of about 20 on the range. All seven were voluntary conscripts, rather than being ordered to serve.

"I think that every man in the world needs to at least try military life," said Eduard.

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A Latvian general explained how conscription is about much more than simply generating fresh boots on the ground - it is also about growing a sense of national service and a desire for each citizen to do their bit to help protect the country.

"Everyone has the right to serve - an obligation to serve - the nation," said Major General Andis Dilans, the chief of the joint staff of the National Armed Forces, Latvia's second most senior commander.

"This is really the cornerstone of democracy," he said in an interview in the capital Riga.

"Therefore, we looked at this not just as a war-fighting force of the conscription, but looking at the connection between the public and the military in case of crisis, in case of war."

Civilians have been practising since Russia's invasion

How Lithuania borders a potential flashpoint

The final leg of our journey took us to the southwestern edge of Lithuania, which borders a heavily fortified Russian exclave called Kaliningrad .

The Russian territory also shares a border with Poland, another NATO state.

It means the only way for vehicles, such as lorries loaded with goods, coaches carrying passengers, or ordinary cars to travel between the exclave and mainland Russia is by transiting through Lithuania and into Belarus.

The crossing was calm when we visited, with a long queue of lorries on the Russian side, waiting to be allowed into Lithuania.

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A border guard said the number of vehicles - about 300 per day in total, moving in and out - had roughly halved since 2022 because Western sanctions had limited the types of goods that are permitted to be transited through Lithuania.

Communication between the guards on either side of a long wire, fence, topped in sections with barbed wire and bristling with cameras, had also been all but severed.

In the past, officials, who might have been stationed at the crossing point for two or three decades, would often speak with their Russian counterparts but that has stopped completely.

A mobile phone line still exists that can be called in an emergency, but the guard said that the Russian side does not tend to pick up.

The Kaliningrad. border

Another potential flashpoint is a nearby strip of land, about 60 miles long, that connects Kaliningrad with Belarus and is bordered by Lithuania and Poland.

It is called the Suwalki Gap.

The concern among NATO commanders is that if Russia were to capture the corridor, it would provide another way to cut off access to the Baltic states.

Gitanas Nauseda, Lithuania's president, summed up the response to the threat next door.

"All Baltic countries, Poland and other countries of the eastern flank of the NATO do a lot in order to utilise all the possibilities of [the] collective defence system, called NATO," he said in an interview.

"But we also do a lot individually by increasing our defence spending, by closely cooperating with our neighbours and my country is especially active in this field."

It is why a growing number of citizens in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are volunteering to serve.

But their ability to deter Russia may depend on whether the citizens of other allies follow suit.

Related Topics

Latvia extends an entry ban on Russian tourists until March 2025 citing Moscow’s war in Ukraine

HELSINKI (AP) — Latvia’s government has extended restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens into the Baltic country until next year, citing Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine which officials say is “still posing a threat to the internal security of Latvia.”

The Cabinet of Prime Minister Evika Siliņa decided Tuesday to lengthen the entry conditions on Russian citizens until March 4, 2025.

Russian citizens will continue to be banned from entering Latvia, a European Union country, for the purposes of tourism and leisure, the government said in a statement.

However, some Russians will be permitted to enter, including those with residence permits valid in Latvia or another EU member state, or Russians whose entry is related to humanitarian considerations like political dissidents.

In September 2022, Poland and the Baltic states — Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — reached a joint agreement to restrict the numbers of Russian citizens coming to their countries to prevent alleged security risks amid Russia’s war in nearby Ukraine.

NATO member Latvia, a country of 1.9 million people that borders Russia, is home to a sizable ethnic Russian minority that makes up about 25% of the country’s population. The Baltic Sea nation previously has been a popular vacation venue and its capital, Riga, a popular weekend destination for Russian tourists.

Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

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AFP

Does Sweden joining make the Baltic Sea a 'NATO lake'?

S weden's accession to NATO adds a final puzzle piece to the alliance around the shores of the strategically important Baltic Sea -- but Russia still poses a threat above and below water.

After Finland joined last year, Sweden's membership -- which cleared the final hurdle Monday with Hungary's vote on ratification -- means all the countries surrounding the Baltic Sea, except Russia, will be part of the US-led military alliance. 

That has led some to label the sea a "NATO lake", with the Western allies now appearing well-placed to strangle Russia's room for manoeuvre in the crucial shipping route if a war with Moscow ever breaks out.

But analysts warn that while Sweden's entry makes it easier for NATO to exert control and reinforce its vulnerable Baltic states, Russia can still menace the region from heavily-armed exclave Kaliningrad and threaten undersea infrastructure.

"If you look at a map then geographically the Baltic Sea is becoming a NATO lake, yes," said Minna Alander a research fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs. 

"But there is still work to do for NATO."

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a series of high-profile incidents involving pipelines and cables under the Baltic Sea have given NATO a wake-up call over its vulnerabilities.

In September 2022 a sabotage attack hit the Nord Stream gas pipelines between Russia and Europe. Over a year on, investigators have still not publicly named those responsible.

Then last October a gas pipeline and a cable from Finland and Sweden to Estonia were damaged. Finnish police say they believe a Chinese cargo ship was likely involved.

NATO has bolstered its naval deployments in response and is looking to step up its monitoring capabilities, but keeping an eye on what's happening beneath the water is a major task. 

"It's very difficult to have overall control of a sea as you would control territories on land," said Julian Pawlak, a researcher at Germany's Bundeswehr University in Hamburg.

"What the Nord Stream sabotages have shown, among others, is that it remains hard to be aware exactly what is happening below the surface and on the seabed."

- Kaliningrad threat -

Sweden has long had a close partnership with NATO but its formal membership will allow it to be fully integrated into the alliance's defence plans.

Beyond its long Baltic coastline, Sweden brings with it the island of Gotland which would play a central role in helping NATO impose its will.

But just across the water Russia has its own vital outpost -- the exclave of Kaliningrad.

Wedged between Poland and Lithuania, Moscow has in recent years turned the region into one of the most militarised in Europe, with nuclear-capable missiles stationed there. 

Russia's Baltic fleet based in Kaliningrad is a shadow of what it was during the Cold War and the invasion of Ukraine has sapped some of its forces from the region.   

But John Deni, a research professor at the US Army War College, said the Kremlin has kept up investments in undersea capabilities and still has the firepower to stage small-scale landings or threaten NATO supply routes.

"In terms of artillery, indirect fires and nuclear-capable weapons they out-gun and out-range NATO allies in the region," Deni told AFP.

"Allies have to meet that threat and counter it."

On the other side, while Stockholm brings with it a rich heritage of naval history, like other NATO states in the area its sea power in the Baltic remains understrength.

"Even if you count Sweden, NATO naval assets are relatively limited," Deni said, adding that the allies need to develop their ability to carry out demining under fire. 

- Reinforcing the Baltic states -

Three countries breathing a particular sigh of relief over the entry of Sweden -- and Finland -- are NATO's Baltic states, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, long seen as an Achilles heel for the alliance.

War planners have struggled to work out how to stop them being cut off if Russian land troops seized the 65-kilometre (40-mile) Suwalki Gap between Belarus and Kaliningrad.

Sweden's position straddling both the North and Baltic Seas opens up a key route for transiting more NATO forces to protect them in case of attack.

"It allows US forces to reinforce the Baltic Sea nations in a timely manner, but especially the frontline states," said Tuuli Duneton, Estonian undersecretary for defence policy.

Despite the joy at NATO over welcoming Sweden to the fold, however, US academic Deni insisted the alliance should lay off considering the Baltic its own property.

"Calling it a 'NATO lake' leads to complacency," Deni said. 

"The challenge and the threat posed by Russia in the region is significant in some ways and the allies for now lack the capacity to counter that in a crisis."

Sweden's membership tightens NATO grip over the Baltic Sea -- but Russia still remains a threat

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hello, can anyone suggest a travel company who could organise a trip for a group of about 20 pax for august for 2 weeks , cost effective no luxuries inclusive of trips and breakfast.

Do you have access to a map? Do you have a vague idea of the distance between Moscow and the closest Balkan state?

travel to baltic states

Perhaps Maria means Baltic, not Balkan?

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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IMAGES

  1. One Week Itinerary for the Baltic Countries

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  2. The Baltic States, 6 charming towns that you need to visit

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  3. 6 Tips for Visiting the Baltics

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  4. A road trip through the Baltic States

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  5. The Essential Guide to the Baltic States

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  6. Baltic States Travel Guide: How to See All the Capitals in 1 Week

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VIDEO

  1. Baltic countries/Baltic states बाल्टिक देश #map

  2. CHEEENIQUE TRAVEL TO THE BALTIC SEA GERMANY 🇩🇪 AND POLAND 🇵🇱

  3. Baltic Countries Trip 2023

  4. Use this Trick to Remember all Baltic Countries😻

  5. The EU’s €5.8BN Railway to Secure Europe

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COMMENTS

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  9. The Best Baltic States Travel Itinerary

    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 ...

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    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.

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    Travel to Baltic Countries and uncover a vibrant and complex history. The Northern Crusades targetted the Baltic Republics in the 13th-century , although Lithuania emerged as a dominant power in the region, establishing the Kingdom, and later the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which held dominion in the Baltics until the 16th-century .

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  27. Travel Moscow and balkan states

    Hello, can anyone suggest a travel company who could organise a trip for a group of about 20 pax for august for 2 weeks , cost effective no luxuries inclusive of trips and breakfast. thanks maria. Moscow. Moscow Tourism ... Travel Moscow and balkan states - Moscow Forum. Europe ;