Highlights of the Baltics

Itinerary

Day 1 Vilnius – Trakai – Anyksciai

Our day will begin with a walking tour of Vilnius taking in the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, and the impressive Vilnius University campus as we go. Then: well stop off in Trakai to see the famous castle turrets before moving on to the lush, verdant forests of Laju Takas. Our final destination of the day will be Anykciai, where well have the chance to get to know each other over dinner.

Day 2 Anyksciai – Birzai – Pakruojis

After breakfast at the hotel, well set off for Birai where well have the chance to tour the brewery before we dive into a few samples of the local tipple. After hearing some folk songs and enjoying a traditional lunch, well move on to Pakruojis Manor. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the historic building before spending an afternoon at the perfume laboratory.

Day 3 Pakruojis – Hill of Crosses – Rundale – Riga

Before leaving Lithuania, we’ll make a stop at the famous Hill of Crosses where a vast number of rosaries and crosses adorn a small hill. After crossing the border into Latvia, well visit the impressive Rundale Palace the most outstanding monument of Baroque and Rococo art in the country.

Day 4 Riga

After breakfast well embark on a walking tour, taking in some of the citys most important sights (and sampling some local delicacies along the way). The afternoon will be free for you to explore Riga at your leisure.

Day 5 Riga – Ligatne – Tartu

Today well set a course for the town of Tartu, making a quick stop in Ligatne for a taste of the local berry wine and a relaxing lunch in a charming local caf. Once in Tartu, well head out on a guided tour.

Day 6 Tartu – Lahemaa National Park – Tallinn

This morning well head towards Lake Peipsi, which straddles the border between Estonia and Russia. Near Mustvee, well pay a visit to a fascinating community known as the Old Believers. After sharing tea and Krendel bread, well enjoy a little fresh air and a tasty picnic before we get back on the road. Our next stop? Estonia’s largest national park, Lahemaa, where well spend the afternoon exploring the fascinating ecosystem. Tonight, the winding streets and ancient castles of Tallinn await.

Day 7 Tallinn

After breakfast, well take a bus and walking tour through the medieval heart of Tallinn. As we go, well take in some of the citys best-loved attractions, including Toompea Palace and Castle, Town Hall Square, the Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Dome Church.

Day 8 Tallinn – Helsinki – St. Petersburg

This morning well take the short ferry ride across the Baltic Sea from Tallinn to Helsinki where well visit the bustling harbours, the Finlandia Hall, Market Square and Parliament House. The city is yours for the afternoon. Just be sure to meet us at the train station because tonight, well be setting our sights on St Petersburg!

Day 9 St. Petersburg

This morning well visit the citys most iconic sights, including the Kazan Cathedral and the stately Admiralty. There will also be the chance to sample one of Russias most famous exports authentic vodka. Spend the rest of the afternoon discovering St Petersburgs many delights or find a quiet spot for lunch and watch the world go by.

Day 10 St Petersburg

First today, well enjoy included visits to Tsarskoye Selo and the legendary Amber Room at Catherine Palace. Later on this afternoon, well enjoy a trip to the Hermitage. And tonight? Well round off the last day of our tour with a farewell dinner.

Day 11 St Petersburg

After our last breakfast together, theres one last hurrah in store: a speedboat ride to Peterhof Park and Gardens. After taking some time to explore, well bid each other farewell.