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Journey through the Baltic States

Resort:Journey through the Baltic States
Operator: Cox and Kings
Destination: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
Price From: £1495.00

Overview

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania may be small, but they are confident, outward-looking nations, each with their own identity and distinct culture. The countries’ rich and colourful histories can be best appreciated in their capital cities, which all possess beautiful architecture, while the surrounding countryside features lakes, forests and wetlands, dotted with manor houses, medieval castles and splendid rococo churches.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Tallinn, Estonia

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Tallinn, via Riga, with airBaltic. Transfer to the LErmitage Hotel (or similar) for a 3-night stay. Welcome drink. (N)

Days 2-3: Tallinn

Morning walking tour of Tallinn, one of northern Europes best-preserved medieval towns. Founded in the early 13th century, Tallinn has been influenced by periods of Danish, German, Swedish and Russian control. Highlights include the gothic town hall and square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Toompea castle, seat of Estonias parliament. Optional afternoon visit to Rocca al Mare open-air museum. Following day at leisure. (B)

Day 4: Castles & Prnu Riga, Latvia

Drive to Riga in Latvia, stopping en route at the 13th-century ruins of Sigulda castle, Turaida castle in the Gauja valley and the beachside town of Prnu. Stay 2 nights at the Opera Hotel & Spa. (B)

Day 5: Riga

Morning tour of Riga, the Baltics largest and perhaps most beautiful city. The citys extensive history has left a legacy of fine architecture, including art nouveau. Highlights include visits to the cathedral and an organ recital to hear the impressive acoustics in its Romanesque dome, the castle, St Peters Church and the House of Blackheads. Visit Riga Central Market and try some traditional Latvian delicacies. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Day 6: Rundale Palace The Hill of Crosses Vilnius, Lithuania

Morning journey across Latvia to Lithuania via Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses, a place of national pilgrimage. Continue to Vilnius and stay 2 nights at the newly opened Vilnia Hotel. (B)

Day 7: Vilnius

Morning tour of Vilnius, including Cathedral Square, the Gate of Dawn, St Casimirs Church, the Holy Spirit Church, the KGB museum and Gediminas Tower. Afternoon at leisure or optional visit to the picturesque 14th-century Trakai castle. (B)

Day 8: Fly to London via Riga

Morning transfer to the airport and fly to London, via Riga, with airBaltic. (B)