Essential Baltics
Take an overland survey of the Baltic capitals, Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn, exploring the centers of their UNESCO-listed Old Towns. The hearts of these cities feature cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs and robust old churches and fortress walls. Admire the lush farms and winding rivers between the cities, and pay visits to important rural sites like Lithuania's Hill of Crosses and Latvia's baroque Rundale Castle.
Days 1-2: Vilnius
On arrival in Lithuania's capital, Vilnius, gather for a welcoming drink. The following day, spend the morning exploring the city. Admire the 16th century Gates of Dawn and the Church of St. Casimir, the oldest baroque church in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Highlights include the 15th century town hall and Pilies Street, lined with artisans selling their traditional wares. Visit the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, and descend into the Cathedral Crypts.
Days 3-4: Hill of Crosses, Riga
Depart for Riga with an en route stop at the Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of faith and perseverance. This small hill, which in early times accommodated a defensive fortification, is totally hidden by a multitude of crosses planted in the ground by local believers. In Latvia, pay a visit to the baroque Rundale Castle, designed in the early 18th century by Rastrelli. Explore Riga on a walking tour. Riga's Historic Town Center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997, and is recognized as having the finest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in Europe.
Days 5-7: Gauja National Park, Tallinn
Drive alongside Riga Bay to Estonia's capital, Tallinn. Make a stop in Gauja National Park to visit Turaida Castle, originally founded in 1214. Embark on a city tour of Tallinn, visiting the Song Festival Grounds where Estonians defied the Soviet Union in 1988. Explore Kadriorg Park and Palace, built by Peter the Great in 1718. Next is Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town, the best-preserved medieval town center in Eastern Europe. Enjoy an independent afternoon and evening here.
Trip Details
| Length of Trip: |
7 Days |
| Departures in 2009: |
Your choice of dates - start on a Sunday |
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| Land Tour Cost |
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| 2 traveler minimum |
From $2,495 |
| Single Supplement |
From $525 |
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MIR Signature Features
- Shop for luminous amber jewelry along Vilnius' Pilies Street
- Admire red brick Turaida Castle, founded by the archbishops of Riga
- Climb to the top of Toompea, the limestone hill in the center of Tallinn
Map - Click to Enlarge
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| Day 1-2: |
Vilnius |
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| Day 3: |
Drive to Riga via the Hill of Crosses, Riga |
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| Day 4: |
Riga |
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| Day 5: |
Drive to Tallinn via Gajuda National Park |
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| Days |
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| 6-7: |
Tallinn |
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About Essential Trips
Essential trip prices are subject to hotel availability for your selected travel dates. Hotel upgrades and additional nights are available upon request. Contact us for a descriptive itinerary and booking details.
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