Discovery of the Baltic States by Train

ADVANTAGES OF OUR SUSTAINABLE TRIP

• Small group of a maximum of 12 travelers: everyone receives attention
• Experienced guides and escorts: local (1 guide per country), licensed, and with in-depth knowledge
• Extraordinary itinerary designed by locals: reduces the impact of mass tourism
• A true delight for food lovers: authentic meals, tastings, organic farms, market visits, dinners with drinks included
• Scenic hikes, bike rides, boat excursions, various tramways, buses, and cable cars
• Ecological, diverse trip focused on public transportation: 6 trains, minibus, boat, bus, tramway, cable car…
• Learning experiences: Vilnius University Library, Gauja National Park, Singing Revolution
• Social evenings and immersion in local life
• Carbon-neutral, environmentally friendly trip: ~30-50 trees planted (receive your certificate to keep!)
• Tap water is drinkable everywhere along the route: a BPA-free reusable water bottle is provided to each traveler
• Relaxed pace and a wide choice of affordable, original, and authentic optional activities

Departures 2026 :

21 to 31 May
18 to 28 June
09 to 19 July
06 to 16 August

DAY 1 | VILNIUS – ARRIVAL IN VILNIUS AND FIRST DISCOVERY. WELCOME TO THE BALTIC STATES

Arrival in Vilnius.

Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel by car, with a meet-and-greet service in the arrival hall by our driver.

START OF SERVICES. Check-in and free time for your first exploration of the Lithuanian capital, depending on your flight or train schedule. Many cultures have contributed to the beauty and charm of this city, including Lithuanians, Poles, Jews, and Russians. As the most western European city in the east, Vilnius offers a cultural crossroads atmosphere in its UNESCO-listed Baroque Old Town.

Overnight in Vilnius: 3-star hotel in the city center (Panorama or similar).

OPTION: Hot air balloon flight over the red rooftops of Old Vilnius or Trakai Castle.

DAY 2 | VILNIUS, BAROQUE PEARL, AND TRAKAI, VILLAGE ON THE WATER (60 km + 5h walking – 09:00 AM / 06:00 PM)

At breakfast, meet your tour leader to discuss the itinerary and get to know your new travel companions. You will also receive your travel booklet with a detailed road book, a sweet treat, and a BPA-free reusable bottle.

Next, discover the must-sees of Vilnius on a walking tour: the Gate of Dawn with the remains of the city walls and the famous Chapel of Mercy, a sacred site for Catholic pilgrims and believers. The upper part reveals magnificent churches, among which the most remarkable are the Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit, the Catholic Church of St. Casimir, and that of St. Theresa. Stroll through the Town Hall Square, which houses the ancient merchant guilds, with the adjacent Jewish Quarter marking the city’s rich Jewish history—before World War II, Jews made up nearly half of Vilnius’ population.

Visit Vilnius University: study the famous Four Seasons fresco in magical realism, wander through its 16th-century courtyards—one of which reveals the Church of St. John with its beautiful Baroque organ and 67-meter bell tower offering panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed district with its red-tiled roofs. And, of course, visit the red-brick St. Anne’s Church, considered a masterpiece of Northern Gothic architecture, as well as the Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus, known for the Chapel of St. Casimir. Lunch at an inclusive and social restaurant in the old town.

In the afternoon, head to Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, located 27 km from Vilnius by train (electric duplex Skoda train), in a National Park dotted with 15 lakes from the glacial period. This is a picturesque village inhabited by the Karaite minority from the East; today, only 60 descendants remain in the village, but they have managed to preserve their culture: they have their own temple, a school, and maintain their gastronomic traditions.

Visit the historic district with its small wooden houses, then embark on a boat trip on the lake around the famous red-brick island castle. Taste Karaite specialties at a traditional restaurant. Free time for a pleasant lakeside stroll.

Return to Vilnius in the early evening.

Overnight in Vilnius, 3-star hotel in the city center: Panorama or similar.

DAY 3 | CROSSING LITHUANIA BY TRAIN: VILNIUS TO KLAIPĖDA (380 km + 3h walking + 1h biking – 08:00 AM / 09:00 PM)

This morning, board the train to Klaipėda. With 5-6 departures per day and a journey of about 4 hours, this is Lithuania’s only long-distance national rail line. Over the 376 km route, pass the time on the comfortable train, which offers hot drinks and snacks, while admiring the country’s landscapes: meadows, hills, valleys, towns, and villages.

Upon arrival in Klaipėda, explore this port city, formerly known as Memelburg, at the edge of East Prussia: The Exchange Bridge, the Meridianas sailing ship, Theatre Square, half-timbered houses, Friedrich Passage, the castle site, John’s Hill, and the Dangė River quays with the marina.

In the early evening, take bikes and cross the lagoon by ferry to the Curonian Spit, enjoying splendid views of the port cranes and large ships. Cycle along the lagoon to the maritime gates, then through the forest to the sandy beach of the Baltic Sea.

Enjoy a typical dinner on the isthmus.

Overnight in Klaipėda, 3-star hotel in the city center: Memel or similar.

DAY 4 | ADVENTURE ON THE CURLAND ISTHMUS (95 km + 4 hours of walking – 09:00 am/06:00 pm)

A day dedicated to the authentic discovery of the Curonian Spit, a narrow strip of sand separating the Baltic Sea from the Neman River estuary. Stretching 98 km long and less than 2 km wide, this sandy peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the village of Juodkrantė, explore the 19th‑century fishermen’s houses, the villas of Prussian holidaymakers, and the richly decorated weather vanes. The mystical hike through the Hill of Witches, a forest trail along the ancient dunes, reveals more than 100 wooden sculptures inspired by local folklore — featuring characters from tales, witches, and devils. Upon arrival in Nida, visit the old town with its colorful houses and enjoy lunch at a fishermen’s tavern to taste the local smoked fish. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the lagoon: the amber museum, the Curonian indigenous cemetery, the Thomas Mann house, and the “Italian view.” In the late afternoon, climb the Parnidis dune for a breathtaking panorama of the lagoon, the Baltic Sea, and the spit with its shifting dunes, forests, and red rooftops. Free time to stroll to the sea, look for amber, or relax on the terraces.

Return to Klaipėda and evening at leisure. For those who wish, we recommend extending the evening in a local brewery to taste regional craft beer (Klaipėda is known for its beer) or enjoying a gourmet dinner aboard the splendid Meridianas schooner.

Overnight in Klaipėda, 3‑star city‑center hotel: Memel or similar.

DAY 5 | TRAIN THROUGH SAMOGITIA, HILL OF CROSSES, “LITTLE VERSAILLES” OF CURLAND – RUNDALE (327 km + 2 hours of walking – 09:00 am/06:00 pm)

This morning, take the train to Šiauliai (1h45 journey), home to the famous Hill of Crosses (Kryžių Kalnas). Two twin mounds are covered with thousands of crosses, attracting pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. Originally, a few hundred crosses were erected at the end of the 19th century

as a symbol of spiritual and physical healing. The site grew significantly during the Soviet era as an act of resistance against imposed atheism and expanded even more after Pope John Paul II’s visit in

1993. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a family-run restaurant Typical lunch in a family‑run restaurant in the small town of Joniškis.

Continue to Rundale, renowned for its extravagant palace set in a bucolic landscape. Take a guided tour of this magnificent palace, designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the imperial court’s master architect and creator of the Winter Palace (the Hermitage). Explore the grand rooms of this baroque-rococo summer residence of the Duchy of Courland, including the throne hall, the white hall, elegant galleries, the duke’s apartments, and the duchess’ boudoir. The former Duchy of Courland, which existed from 1561 to 1795, was prosperous in agriculture, even possessing two overseas colonies. It also gave rise to Dorothea of Courland, companion of Talleyrand and heiress to his fortune.

Final stretch to Riga, followed by a free evening. The capital of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltic States, Riga has around 800,000 inhabitants. Founded in 1201, it boasts a UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, a scenic canal, an elegant ring of gardens and grand boulevards, and the famous Art Nouveau district.

Overnight in Riga, 3-star hotel in the city center: Opera Hotel or similar.

DAY 6 | RIGA, ELEGANT METROPOLIS OF THE BALTIC STATES: HANSEATIC HERITAGE, ART NOUVEAU, AND LOCAL LIFE (5 hours of walking – 09:00 am/02:00 pm

Walk through the Old Town to discover the essential sights: the House of the Blackheads, the castle, the Three Brothers, the Freedom Monument, the National Opera, the old city walls, St. Peter’s Church, St. James’s Church, St. John’s Church, and the Dome Cathedral.

Explore the Art Nouveau district. This dominant architectural style in Riga features more than 800 impressive facades. Take a guided tour through the district and visit the Art Nouveau Museum, which preserves interiors with objects and furniture from this emblematic style of Riga. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant during the tour.

Visit Riga’s Central Market, which consists of five former Zeppelin hangars. This site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, just like Riga’s Old Town. The hangars date back to 1930, and each one is dedicated to a specific type of goods, such as butchery, vegetables, etc. It’s a great opportunity to taste local specialties! A detour into the old Jewish Quarter provides insight into an important chapter of history.

Free afternoon for individual discoveries.

Overnight in Riga, 3-star hotel in the city center: Opera Hotel or similar.

DAY 7 | FREE DAY IN RIGAOR OPTIONAL ESCAPE TO THE KEMERI MARSHES AND THE BEACHES OF JŪRMALA

Free day to deepen your cognitive exploration of Riga : Visit the Museum of Anatomy or the Railway Museum, wander through the typical districts of Agenskalns, Grizinkalns and Mezaparks, learn about recent history at the Museum of the Occupation, or take the train for a getaway to the seaside!

OPTION: Join the optional escape to the magnificent Kemeri National Park by local electric train, admiring the architecture of the small stations every five minutes. Hike through the national park along the Great Bog Boardwalk to understand the complex ecosystem of the region and observe its flora and fauna. The Kemeri spa town reveals abandoned bathhouses and thermal buildings. Lunch in a local restaurant, then discovery of Jūrmala, a seaside resort stretching along 30 km of sandy beach. Enjoy a stroll through its charming wooden‑architecture streets, and walk along the beach — with a refreshing swim if the weather allows.

Dinner featuring typical Latvian cuisine with folkloric entertainment.

Overnight in Riga, 3‑star city‑center hotel: Opera Hotel or similar.

DAY 8 | NEW! SHORES OF LAKE PEIPUS AND THE OLD BELIEVERS’ VILLAGES; ESTONIA THROUGH THE TRAIN WINDOW: JOURNEY (80+190 km, 3 hours of walking)

We depart from Riga this morning by taking the local train to Sigulda (53 km, 1 hour), a small wellness town that serves as a gateway to Gauja National Park, beloved by Latvians. Visit the small Kropotkin family castle, located in a beautiful park. Cross the Gauja Valley by cable car (1 km) to admire the 50 shades of green. A short hike through the forest leads you to Gutman’s Cave.

In Turaida, spend a good hour at the open-air museum. This large green space includes the manor with its typical buildings and pond system, the park of the famous sculptor Indulis Ranka, the 17th-century wooden church still in use, the tomb of the legendary Rose of Turaida, and finally the ruins of the red brick episcopal castle.

Enjoy a typical lunch with regional specialties. Join a renowned local artisan to discover the traditional black bread baking process. Immerse yourself in the rituals of yesteryears and taste the artisanal bread.

Continue to Valga, a border town split in two: one half is in Latvia and the other in Estonia! Take the Estonian train to Tartu, the country’s second-largest city and a major academic center. Check-in at the hotel and explore the authentic neighborhoods of Aparaaditehas and Karlova: stroll around and have dinner.

Overnight in Tartu, 3-star hotel in the city center: Soho or similar.

DAY 9 | TARTU’S CURIOSITIES AND ESTONIA THROUGH THE TRAIN WINDOW: JOURNEY TO TALLINN (190 km – 3 hours of walking)

Set off to discover the shores of Lake Peipus, a place steeped in history where the famous “Battle on the Ice” took place in 1242. Today, this peaceful region reveals a unique cultural heritage shaped by the traditions of the Old Believers and an intriguing blend of Estonian and Russian influences.
The itinerary known as the Onion Route leads you through charming coastal villages, including a visit to a community center and an Old Believers’ Museum, a quirky exhibition dedicated to samovars, and an authentic insight into the lives of local fishermen and onion growers. Along the way, admire the sweeping views over the fifth‑largest lake in Europe, and enhance this cultural immersion with a traditional lunch — a flavorful and unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, board the train from the beautiful Tartu railway station toward Tallinn: the express train crosses the meadows of central Estonia and the forests of Aegviidu. Upon arrival in Tallinn, settle into the hotel adjacent to the station, facing the medieval old town.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997, Tallinn is one of Europe’s most stunning medieval cities, with its fortifications, steep cobbled streets, numerous churches, and elegant townhouses. Over the centuries and through successive occupations, the city has amassed monuments in a wide array of architectural styles — Gothic, Renaissance, Classicism, and more.

Suggestion: Take your first individual stroll to get a feel for Tallinn: medieval ramparts, sea gates, winding alleys, and the revitalized Rotermann Quarter.

Overnight in Tallinn, 3-star hotel in the city center: Shnelli or similar.

DAY 10 | TALLINN (09:00 am/01:00 pm – 4 hours of walking)

Explore the Upper Town, dominated by the Toompea fortress which houses the Parliament, the Orthodox Cathedral, and beautiful historic mansions. Visit the Dome Church with its collection of coats of arms and tombstones. By heading up, you’ll be able to admire the views offered by the Patkuli and Kohtu viewpoints. Among other things, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the city’s fortifications.

Continue with a visit to the Lower Town, which has preserved its medieval spirit since the 13th century. Visit the Town Hall Square, bordered by splendid medieval buildings and wealthy Hanseatic houses that testify to the city’s prosperity and the merchants of the time. Explore the St. Catherine’s Passage with its Estonian artisan guilds.

In the late afternoon, free time for personal discoveries – wander through the old town of Tallinn or visit the new Port Noblessner district by the sea with its creative architecture. Nearby, don’t miss the Maritime Museum, located in the former seaplane harbor – step aboard a submarine!

Join the group for the last evening of this magnificent journey: explore the Telliskivi Creative City district, once an industrial area, now a creative neighborhood with galleries, shops, restaurants, cafés, and bars. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the restaurant in the former brick factory.

Overnight in Tallinn, 3-star hotel in the city center: Shnelli or similar.

DAY 11 | TALLINN: LAST DAY IN THE BALTICS

Depending on your flight schedule, morning/free day (breakfast included). Transfer on your own to Tallinn Airport.