17-Day Baltic Discovery Self-Drive Tour
This 17-day self-drive tour through the Baltic States invites you to explore the charm and diversity of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania at your own pace. From the cultural treasures of Riga and Tallinn to the serene beauty of the Curonian Spit and the historic castles along the Nemunas River, every day reveals new wonders. You’ll wander through medieval old towns, unwind on picturesque coastlines, and experience the warmth of Baltic hospitality. Carefully designed routes and comfortable hotels ensure a relaxed and memorable journey. Discover the Baltic region in complete freedom – rich in history, nature, and unforgettable impressions.
Day 1: Arrival in Riga
Welcome to Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia! Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your first evening at leisure.
Overnight in Riga.
Day 2: Riga – The Pearl of the Baltics
After breakfast, meet your local Englisch-speaking guide for a walking tour through Riga’s enchanting Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Admire the impressive Dome Cathedral with the largest organ in Europe, the picturesque Dome Square, the graceful St. Peter’s Church, and the romantic Swedish Gate. Riga’s 800 Art Nouveau buildings, restored wooden houses, and cobbled lanes make it one of the architectural treasures of Northern Europe.
The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace.
Overnight in Riga.
Day 3: Riga – Pärnu – Saaremaa Island (approx. 342 km)
Pick up your rental car and begin your Baltic adventure! Your first stop is Pärnu, Estonia’s “Summer Capital,” famous for its endless sandy beaches, stylish cafés, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Continue by ferry from Virtsu to the beautiful island of Saaremaa, known for its pristine nature and charming villages.
Overnight in Kuressaare.
Day 4: Exploring Saaremaa Island
Discover the many faces of Saaremaa on a full-day tour. Visit Kuressaare’s impressive Bishop’s Castle, marvel at the dramatic Panga Cliffs, and see the striking Sõrve Lighthouse. Explore the mysterious Kaali meteorite crater field and the historical Angla Windmill Hill. Experience authentic rural life at the Mihkli Farm Museum before returning to your hotel.
Overnight in Kuressaare.
Day 5: Saaremaa – Haapsalu – Tallinn (approx. 224 km)
Today’s journey takes you to the romantic spa town of Haapsalu. Stroll past colorful wooden houses, visit the medieval Bishop’s Castle, and hear the legend of the “White Lady.”
Continue to Tallinn, Estonia’s lively capital. Explore the modern Rotermann Quarter with its bold architecture, chic cafés, and boutique shops – a striking contrast to the Old Town’s medieval charm.
Overnight in Tallinn.
Day 6: Medieval Magic in Tallinn
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour through Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Visit Toompea Hill with its grand government buildings, the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the city’s iconic towers – “Tall Hermann” and “Fat Margaret.”
The afternoon is yours to discover Tallinn’s hidden corners, cozy cafés, and artisan shops.
Overnight in Tallinn.
Day 7: Tallinn – Lahemaa National Park – Vihula (approx. 100 km)
Today you’ll experience Estonia’s natural beauty in Lahemaa National Park, home to wild forests, rugged coastlines, and elegant manor houses. Visit the historic Palmse and Sagadi estates, the Jägala Waterfall, and the charming captain’s village of Käsmu.
Spend the night in the fairytale-like Vihula Manor Hotel, set in peaceful countryside surroundings.
Overnight in Vihula.
Day 8: Vihula – Tartu – Cēsis (approx. 340 km)
Travel to Tartu, Estonia’s intellectual heart and home to one of Northern Europe’s oldest universities. Explore the picturesque Old Town, the ruins of the medieval Cathedral, St. John’s Church, and the “Kissing Students” fountain.
Continue to the elegant Sangaste Castle before crossing into Latvia and arriving in the charming town of Cēsis. Wander its cobbled streets, admire the Gothic church, and visit one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltics.
Overnight in Cēsis.
Day 9: Gauja National Park – Rundāle Palace – Pakruojis (approx. 228 km)
Drive through the scenic Gauja National Park, Latvia’s oldest and most beautiful natural reserve. Visit the Gutman Cave, the ancient Turaida Castle, and the historic Krimulda Manor.
Next, explore Rundāle Palace – the “Versailles of the Baltics” – a masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo architecture.
Cross the border into Lithuania and settle in at the elegant Pakruojis Manor.
Overnight in Pakruojis.
Day 10: Pakruojis – Hill of Crosses – Palanga – Klaipėda (approx. 300 km)
Start your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Hill of Crosses, one of Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage sites. Continue to Palanga, the country’s favorite seaside resort. Stroll through the Botanical Park and visit the Tyszkiewicz Palace, now home to the famous Amber Museum. End your day in Klaipėda, Lithuania’s oldest city and main port.
Overnight in Klaipėda.
Day 11: Klaipėda – Curonian Spit (approx. 52 km)
Take the ferry to the Curonian Spit – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering dunes and magical landscapes. Stop in Juodkrantė to visit the “Hill of Witches” and the cormorant colony, then continue to the peaceful resort of Nida, stopping to admire the mysterious Dead Dunes along the way.
Overnight in Nida.
Day 12: Nida – Free Day
Spend a leisurely day in Nida. Climb the impressive Great Dune, visit the Thomas Mann House, the old Lutheran Church, and the traditional fishermen’s cemetery.
Overnight in Nida.
Day 13: Nida – Optional Boat Trip
Enjoy another relaxing day by the sea or take an optional boat trip through the tranquil Nemunas Delta. Glide through peaceful waters and observe rare birds and plant life in this untouched natural paradise.
Overnight in Nida.
Day 14: Nida – Along the Nemunas River – Kaunas (approx. 284 km)
Depart the Curonian Spit and follow the scenic Nemunas River toward Kaunas. En route, visit the Renaissance Panemunė Castle and the red-brick Raudonė Castle.
Arrive in Kaunas and enjoy a walk through its lively Old Town, featuring the Town Hall, Cathedral, and the elegant pedestrian boulevard “Laisvės alėja” (Avenue of Freedom).
Overnight in Kaunas.
Day 15: Kaunas – Trakai – Vilnius (approx. 144 km)
Drive to Vilnius, stopping in Trakai, famous for its fairytale island castle set amid serene lakes. Sample the traditional Karaite pastry kibinai before continuing to Vilnius.
Overnight in Vilnius.
Day 16: Discovering Vilnius
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour of Vilnius – a city of baroque beauty and cultural charm. Visit the Town Hall Square, St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Pilies Street, Cathedral Square, the Gate of Dawn, and the historic university quarter.
Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure.
Overnight in Vilnius.
Day 17: Departure
Enjoy some free time before your transfer to the airport. Return your rental car and say farewell to the Baltics – taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable journey.
Included Services
- 16 nights in 3–4★ hotels with breakfast;
- 15 days car rental (e.g., VW Passat, Toyota);
- Delivery fees for rental cars in Riga and Vilnius;
- Second driver authorized for the full rental period;
- Parking at hotels in Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius;
- Guided city tours in Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius;
- Travel documents (vouchers, road map, etc.).
- Price per person in double room: €1999
Not Included
City taxes: Klaipėda – €1 pp/night; Riga – €1 pp/night; Vilnius – €2 pp/night.
Notes
Itinerary modifications available upon request. Flexible travel dates.