7 days | Independent tour | Apr-Oct | Tallinn to Vilnius
Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania on this immersive journey through the Baltic States. From the medieval charm of Tallinn to the Art Nouveau elegance of Riga and the baroque beauty of Vilnius, this tour blends guided experiences with time to explore at your own pace. Enjoy scenic train rides, local cuisine, and handpicked boutique stays in the heart of each city.
As a Certified B Corporation, 50 Degrees North has designed this tour using handpicked local hoteliers and suppliers who share our ethos of delivering services and activities of high social and environmental standards.
The CO2-e per person per day of all tours is carefully measured following each season. We fully offset all emissions of our tours on your behalf, and we constantly look at ways to reduce emissions where possible.
Private airport transfers. Private transfers in Riga and Vilnius to/from the train stations. 1st class train journeys between all the capitals. We can also arrange private transfers between the capital cities if you would prefer.
Arrive in Estonia’s capital either on the morning ferry from Helsinki, or to the international airport, and enjoy a private transfer to your charming boutique Hotel. Depending on your arrival time, join a small group walking tour at either 10:00 or 14:00 to get acquainted with Tallinn’s cobbled streets, medieval towers, and hidden courtyards. The rest of the day is yours to explore or relax.
After breakfast, leave the city behind and venture into Estonia’s serene countryside on a full-day guided tour to Lahemaa National Park—often called the "Land of Bays." Just under an hour’s drive from Tallinn, this region offers a striking contrast to urban life, with untouched forests, tranquil wetlands, and a rugged coastline dotted with charming fishing villages and elegant manor houses.
Travel through the picturesque countryside to discover the stunning Jägala Waterfall, Estonia’s largest natural waterfall, before exploring the iconic Viru Bog on a scenic boardwalk hike (3.5 km) through mystical peatlands. Visit historic Vihula Manor, and learn about the region's distilling heritage, and enjoy time in the charming coastal fishing villages of Altja and Käsmu, where traditional wooden houses and maritime heritage create a uniquely Estonian atmosphere. Along the way, learn about local culture, history, and nature from your knowledgeable guide while taking in the diverse beauty of North Estonia’s coastline. A picnic featuring Estonian cuisine is included.
Return to Tallinn in late afternoon.
After breakfast, take a short walk to the train station and board a comfortable train for a scenic 6.5-hour journey to Riga, with an easy platform change in Valga. Enjoy views of the Baltic countryside as you travel south into Latvia. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your centrally located hotel.
Spend your evening getting acquainted with Riga’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture and lively atmosphere. Wander past the House of the Blackheads, the Three Brothers, and St. Peter’s Church. For dinner, choose from one of the city’s many excellent restaurants—whether you're in the mood for traditional Latvian fare or something more contemporary. If time allows, enjoy a relaxed walk along the Daugava River or explore the vibrant Spīķeri creative quarter.
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely boat trip through Riga’s picturesque canals and along the Daugava River. This relaxing cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s historic buildings, green parks, and bridges.
The rest of the day is yours to explore Riga at your own pace. Visit the Art Nouveau district, home to one of the world’s richest collections of this architectural style. Stop by the Latvian National Museum of Art or the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia for deeper insight into the country’s history. If you're in the mood for shopping or people-watching, head to the lively Central Market housed in old Zeppelin hangars. For a touch of whimsy, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town. Riga’s blend of history, culture, and charm makes it a joy to discover.
Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast at your hotel, followed by free time to explore more of Riga at your own pace. This is a great opportunity to revisit your favourite spots or discover new corners of the city. You might choose to explore the peaceful Kronvalda Park, visit the Latvian National Opera, or browse the boutiques and galleries in the Kalnciema Quarter. For lunch, consider trying a traditional Latvian dish like grey peas with bacon or rye bread with smoked fish at one of the city’s cozy cafés.
In the late afternoon, a private transfer will take you to the train station for your journey to Vilnius. The train ride takes approximately four hours, offering a comfortable and scenic transition into Lithuania. Upon arrival around 21:00, you’ll be met by a private transfer and taken to your hotel in central Vilnius. The city offers a variety of late-night dining options—from elegant wine bars to casual bistros—perfect for a relaxed end to your travel day.
After breakfast, meet your private guide for a walking tour of Vilnius, a city known for its rich history, baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe, and learn about the city’s fascinating past—from its medieval roots to its role in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Highlights may include the Gates of Dawn, Vilnius Cathedral, and the quirky Užupis district, a self-declared republic known for its artistic spirit.
Following the tour, the afternoon is yours to explore independently. You might visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, climb Gediminas Tower for panoramic views, or relax in one of the city’s leafy parks or stylish cafés. Vilnius offers a wonderful mix of history, creativity, and laid-back charm—perfect for soaking up the atmosphere on your final full day in the Baltics.
Enjoy breakfast before your private transfer to the airport. Bid farewell to the Baltics and safe onward travels!
All prices listed are per person, based on two people sharing a room. Prices are indicative.
If you'd like to begin your journey with a scenic ferry ride from Helsinki to Tallinn, we’d be happy to arrange this for you.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Weather conditions may occasionally affect certain activities, and as a result, the schedule may be adjusted to ensure the best possible experience for all guests. For multi-activity stays, often the order of the activities will be confirmed locally on arrival. Activities might vary slightly in their duration or location due to the weather and local conditions. Any activities that are unable to be re-scheduled due to weather conditions will be refunded as a general practice, as determined by the activity provider.
More than 100,000 people are expected to travel to the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds in Estonia next July to experience an extraordinary celebration of music and dance. Taking place just once every five years, the Estonian Song and Dance Festival will return in early July 2028, promising to be an event you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
When you think of Estonia, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the enchanting medieval Old Town in Tallinn, the country’s capital. The cobblestone streets and ancient buildings offer a stark contrast to the more modern aesthetic and design you’ll find in cities like Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo, or Copenhagen.
History comes to life in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Towns of Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, where medieval streets and stunning architecture tell the stories of centuries past. Our bespoke itineraries offer the perfect opportunity to explore these captivating cities, from their iconic landmarks to their hidden backstreets, allowing you to immerse yourself in their rich cultural heritage.
