The Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace day tour
Tours every Saturday!
You have an excellent opportunity to see two of the most impressive Baltic highlights in one day!
The Hill of Crosses, near Siauliai, is an unforgettable, emotional site. It is located 12 km North of Siauliai on the road to Meskuciai. Despite Soviet attempts to destroy the site, thousands of crosses stand on this sacred spot. The crosses, with handwritten messages, reveal much about the history of the Lithuanian people and testify to their strong will and faith. Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass at the site in 1993.
Over the centuries, the place has come to signify the peaceful endurance of Lithuanian Catholicism despite the threats it has faced throughout history. In 1795, Lithuania fell under Russia, and the country disappeared altogether from the map of Europe, returning to it only in 1918 when Lithuania once again declared its independence. Then, in the 20th century, for 50 years, Lithuania lost its statehood again. During all those historic transformations, the Hill of Crosses was a place for Lithuanians to pray for peace, their country, and the loved ones they had lost during wars, occupations, and Russian deportations. Although the Soviets worked hard to remove crosses and bulldoze the site, the new crosses continued to appear, demonstrating people's allegiance to their original identity, religion, and heritage.
After visiting the Hill of Crosses, you will head to Rundale.
In the afternoon, you will get to Rundale Palace, the most beautiful baroque palace in Latvia, near Bauska (66 km South of Riga). The palace built in the 18th century is an outstanding example of the early work of Italian-Russian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, who also designed the famous Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. The professionally renovated palace interiors are decorated with authentic 18th-century furniture, paintings, and china. The most impressive are the Golden Hall, the White Hall, and the bedroom of the Duke of Courtland Johan Ernst Biron. Last but not least - Rundale Palace Park is a gardening masterpiece. Enjoy discovering paths in the park and flower ornaments.
Departure from Vilnius at 8 o'clock. Free pick up from your hotel.
Duration 9-10 hours
On request, there may be a stop for lunch at the local food restaurant on the way to Rundale.
Price: 199€/person*
The price includes transport with an English-speaking driver and Rundale Palace entrance tickets.
Rundale Palace audio guide app is available for download
We accept bookings at least 48 hours before departure
*The minimum number of 2 participants applies. The tour can be canceled if there are not enough participants to meet the requirements. In the event of this, you will be offered an alternative solution.
