From CAD $3,272 Was CAD $3,850
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Experience the Baltic states on this 12-day adventurous journey through Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. From the medieval spires of Tallinn and the funky bars of Riga to the Baroque-styled quirks of Vilnius. Visit colourful markets, be immersed in art and architecture and kayak on Lithuanian lakes. Hike through forests, learn about the layered history and indulge in home-cooked meals with friendly hosts. Join a trip with likeminded travellers and discover the rich history and fascinating customs of this region on a journey from Helsinki to Vilnius.
Highlights
- Walk through the perfectly preserved medieval wall and watchtowers of Tallinn's Old Town – the perfect spot to explore on foot.
- Discover the 13th-century Turaida Castle on a guided tour, then wander through woodlands and along the winding Guaja River.
- Visit Aukstaitija National Park, which offers unique opportunities for both action and relaxation. Kayak across the lakes, indulge in home-cooked meals or cleanse yourself in a traditional sauna.
- Explore Sigulda – a pretty town with medieval history that backs onto Gauja National Park. See the region from above on a cable car ride across the river, then join a guided tour of the Turaida Castle.
- Wander through the ornate architecture of Riga’s Old Town and explore the pastel-coloured buildings, bars and restaurants.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1643
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Public bus,Ferry,Canoe,Private vehicle,Train,Tram,Cable car
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer
Supplier Code: BMSE
Starts: Helsinki, Estonia
Finishes: Vilnius, Estonia
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (1), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights),Homestay (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3272 (CAD $273 /day)
Itinerary
Tervetuloa! Welcome to Finland. Your adventure kicks off in Helsinki with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe check out the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Senate Square or catch a performance at the National Theatre. You may want to consider purchasing the Helsinki Card – which is both an economical way to travel on Helsinki City Transport (HKL) services and free admission to the main Helsinki sights and nearly 50 museums. After your meeting, maybe head out for an optional welcome dinner with your group to get to know your fellow travellers.
Optional Activities:
- Helsinki - Ateneum Art Museum (22 EUR)
- Helsinki - Cathedral (10 EUR)
- Helsinki - City Museum - Free
- Helsinki - Design Museum (20 EUR)
- Helsinki - Mannerheim Museum (14 EUR)
- Helsinki - Open-Air Museum Seurasaari (18 EUR)
- Helsinki - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (7 EUR)
- Helsinki - Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum (22 EUR)
- Helsinki - Rock Church (8 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Helsinki after breakfast and catch a ferry across the Gulf of Finland to the Estonian capital of Tallinn. Arrive mid-afternoon, check into your hotel and head out for a short orientation walk through the city. The rest of your day is then free to enjoy this beautifully preserved medieval city and all it has to offer. Maybe head out and enjoy some of the region's culinary specialties or stop for a drink and people watch on the main square. With its steep red roofs, spires, pastel-coloured buildings and new restaurants and bars, Estonia's capital is a real treat to explore. Tonight, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner – your local leader will have the best recommendations!
Included Activities:
- Tallinn - Leader led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe explore the Old Town – home to the last remaining gothic town hall in northern Europe, Old Thomas. You could also see the Raapteek, which has housed a pharmacy since the 15th century, and St Olaf Church. Maybe head to Upper Tallinn, home to the noble families, to see amazing views of Lower Tallinn and the medieval spires of the town’s walls. The 13th-century Toompea Castle, where the Estonian Parliament sits, and the 19th-century orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral are some of the main attractions. Alternatively, head to Pirita to chill out at Tallinn's most popular beach, or visit Kadriorg Palace, built by czar Peter the Great for his second wife Catherine I.
Optional Activities:
- Tallinn - Estonian History Museum (13 EUR)
- Tallinn - Kadriorg Palace (13 EUR)
- Tallinn - Peter The Great Museum (5 EUR)
- Tallinn - City Bike Tour (28 EUR)
- Tallinn - City Museum (8 EUR)
- Tallinn - Kiek in de Kök Tower Museum (12 EUR)
- Tallinn - TV Tower (16 EUR)
- Tallinn - The Estonian Maritime Museum (30 EUR)
- Tallin - Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom (14 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart by bus after breakfast, cross the border and arrive in the Latvian capital of Riga in the afternoon. Riga is renowned for its welcoming locals and a fascinating art nouveau heritage. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe discover a vast collection of Latvian art spanning various periods at the Latvian National Museum of Art or catch a performance at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet. Tonight, perhaps grab a drink at one of the many bars in the Old Town.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by public transport to Sigulda – a pretty town with medieval history that backs onto Gauja National Park. Take the cable car across the river to Turaida Castle, which began construction in 1214 and is made from striking red bricks. After, join a guided tour and explore the castle grounds which feature sculptures set in evergreen woodland. This afternoon, lace up your boots and set off on a hike along the winding Gauja River with your leader, taking in the clear air and thick Latvian forest. This evening is then free for you to explore at your own pace – maybe join your group for dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Sigulda - Gauja River Cable Car
- Sigulda - Day Trip
- Sigulda - Turaida Castle Guided Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend today exploring Riga. This morning, set out on an orientation tour, where you’ll see the Doma Cathedral, St Peter's Basilica, House of Blackheads, the Swedish Gate, The Great Guild and Small Guild and the Cat House. There is nothing scheduled for the rest of the day, so you’re free to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit The Museum of Occupation of Latvia, which offers insight into the hardships suffered, during occupation by the Germans and Soviets. Or, wander through the Central Market Halls – a great place to haggle for supplies for a picnic lunch. Make sure you give the (bitter but reputedly healthy) Riga Black Balsam a try. The recipe is secret, but it contains rare ingredients such as valerian, wormwood, black pepper, ginger, gentian and linden flower.
Included Activities:
- Riga - Leader led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Riga - Riverboat Cruise (20 EUR)
- Riga - St Peter's Tower (9 EUR)
- Riga - Central Market Halls - Free
- Riga - Museum of Occupation of Latvia (8 EUR)
- Riga - Beer Spa (151 EUR)
- Riga - Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum (5 EUR)
- Riga - Riga Art Nouveau Center (9 EUR)
- Riga - Panorama Observation deck of the Latvian Academy of Science (8 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off by private bus and cross the border into Lithuania. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it's a good idea to get stuck into your book or favourite podcast. After a stop at the iconic Hill of Crosses at Siauliai, continue onto the former Prussian city of Klaipeda – the city of sculptures and jazz. Klaipeda used to be a member of the Hanseatic League and is the gateway to the Curonian Spit – a long and narrow sand dune peninsula separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. When you arrive, check into your hotel, then head out to the waterfront and explore the Old Town centre, which features 18th-century wooden buildings and other historic monuments.
Included Activities:
- Siauliai - Hill of Crosses
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, set off on a daytrip to explore the unique UNESCO World Heritage-listed Curonian Spit National Park – the second-oldest national park in the former Soviet Union. This area is full of beaches, sand dunes and forested areas. The peninsula formed only 5000 years ago by strong winds and currents, which constantly change the shape of the landscape to this day (recently, a whole village was swallowed by the sand!). According to legend, the spit was formed by the girl giant Neringa, who poured sand into the Baltic Sea to protect the bay from storms and create an embankment for fishermen. Explore the tiny village of Nida and the surrounding beaches and look in the distance to see the Russian border. Then for lunch, maybe try the smoked pike for which the spit is famous. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the national park – your leader will have the best recommendations if you’re looking for something to do!
Included Activities:
- Curonian Spit - Full Day Trip to the National Park
Optional Activities:
- Nida - Fisherman Ethnographic Museum (2 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, travel by bus, train and car to the town of Ignalina. Then, continue your journey to Aukstaitija (pronounced owk-sty-chee-ah) National Park and the village of Ginuciai – your home for the night. When you arrive, spend the day exploring the national park, said to be one of the best in the Baltic States. With 126 lakes, an abundance of waterways, hills and woods, there is plenty to explore! Tonight, meet your host family and get to know them over a home-cooked dinner – you'll spend the next two days with them.
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll take a guided kayak ride through the lakes and rivers, past villages and through forests, to an ancient pagan site on top of a hill with a wishing tree. The top affords great views across the surrounding forests and lakes. The rest of the day is free to visit some of the local attractions, such as the nearby villages that date from the 14th century and consist of traditional wooden houses and farmsteads. The 19th-century Ginuciai Watermill is another point of interest. You can hike to lookouts, fish, swim in the lake or river rapids, or relax. Maybe ask your host family to fire up the sauna for the ultimate relaxation and cleansing experience.
Included Activities:
- Aukstaitija National Park - Guided Kayak Trip
Optional Activities:
- Aukstaitija National Park - Sauna (80 EUR)
- Aukstaitija National Park - Bike Hire (20 EUR)
- Aukstaitija National Park - Beekeeping Museum (6 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue your journey today by local train to the capital of Lithuania, Vilnius. Having once been occupied by Sweden, Poland, France and Russia, each occupier has left its mark. Take an orientation walk with your leader when you arrive, seeing Cathedral Square and its free-standing belfry and the length of pedestrianised Pilies Gatve, lined by baroque churches. The rest of the day is free. Maybe visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, better known as the KGB Museum, as it’s in the former KGB headquarters. If you’d like a break from historic monuments, maybe take a walk through some of the gardens around the city. Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your group to celebrate the last night of your trip.
Optional Activities:
- Vilnius - Trakai Island Castle (12 EUR)
- Vilnius - TV Tower (16 EUR)
- Vilnius - Gediminas Castle Tower (8 EUR)
- Vilnius - University Museum (3 EUR)
- Vilnius - National Museum (6 EUR)
- Vilnius - Museum Of Occupations And Freedom Fights (6 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after you check-out. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Similar Experiences
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Blake - Traveled, September 2023
The Baltic experience was a fantastic trip with a good balance of new cities and amazing outdoor activities in Lithuania. Highlights was bike riding along the Spit and a relaxing kayak along the river and lakes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2023
Rosalyn - Traveled, September 2023
We had a great trip through the Baltics with a fun group of fellow travelers and an excellent group leader, Alex W. Loved that we got to explore the charming capital cities and spend time outdoors in several national parks. We flew into Helsinki a day early and in retrospect should have added another day or two. Highly recommend the Baltic Experience trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Robyn - Traveled, September 2023
Highly recommend visiting these beautiful countries with interesting history. We travelled in September and had lovely weather throughout. Well thought out itinerary to get the most of the visit. Out tour guide Alex was brilliant - thanks for a wonderful trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2024
Jeremy - Traveled, September 2023
Go visit the Baltics now! Each country has a unique and interesting history and are still re-establishing themselves after years of Soviet occupation. Amazing cities, good food, lush green countryside, a great group of fellow travelers and Alex our tour leader was organized, knowledgeable and fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2023
Kevin - Traveled, September 2023
An excellent introduction to the Baltic countries. Our outstanding group leader Alex W. guided us through all of the capital cities and several national parks. The resilience of the people after decades of repressive occupation was absolutely amazing. The KGB Museum in Riga is must see.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Jacqueline - Traveled, August 2023
Wonderful foray into the Baltics with a balanced amount of time in larger cities and nature - I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023
Jon - Traveled, August 2023
An excellent trip. The Baltics are truly beautiful countries that are so far untouched by mass market tourism. A mixture of cities and countryside with some great sights and great food along the way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Simon - Traveled, August 2023
The Baltics are fabulous. Each country has its own identity and proud locals who are keen to show you their hospitality and cook good food for you. Tipping isn't mandatory but they are so appreciative when you do. The hotels on this tour were not value for money and I hope Intrepid sorts out Riga as the last minute change put our group almost out of town with accommodation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
Jonty - Traveled, July 2023
Tallinn has a wonderful Old Town, Riga has great museums, and Vilnius has endless beautiful churches, but the landscapes and rest of the itinerary (other than Aukstaitija NP) were underwhelming. First time in 25 trips with Intrepid that I’ve given a four star rating. There are many other places in Eastern Europe that I’d suggest travelling to before the Baltics.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/09/2023
Diana - Traveled, July 2023
The Baltic states have been very underestimated in my opinion as an American. I thoroughly enjoyed Finland Estonia Latvia in Lithuania and it was a highlight seeing all the support for the Ukraine that exuded from all of the capitals we visited. I highly recommend this trip and the activities included. The only thing I think would improve it is having a few days in Finland before crossing to Estonia.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
James - Traveled, July 2023
Excellent trip. Very picturesque old towns with lots of history and lovely restaurants and bars.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/27/2023
Edward - Traveled, July 2023
Tania was amazing as our leader on a fascinating tour of a lesser-known area of Europe. Highly recommend this tour especially in summer
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/26/2023
David - Traveled, July 2023
Excellent opportunity to see both urban and outdoors in the Baltic Countries. Homestay included was popular with all on our trip. We learned much about the might struggles of these countries, particularly important with what is occurring in Ukraine.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/30/2023
Samuel - Traveled, September 2023
My father and I went on this trip because we wanted to travel to a location not often traveled to. We had some historical knowledge beforehand but this trip truly blew us away. Our guide, Ilona, was wonderful. She was full of information and made the entire trip so enjoyable. She was so passionate about her country and the entire area. Anybody interested in history and the struggle for freedom and independence should make this trip a priority.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Christine - Traveled, September 2023
This group tour is an excellent way to visit the Baltic states with public transportation. There was free time in each location to indulge in personal interests. Well-planned, well-organized, right amount of free time and orientation walks in each location.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2023
Madison - Traveled, July 2024
I learned so much and really fell in love with the Baltics. They have such a long history, and the cities really showed the old with the modern. I also loved getting to the countryside and seeing different sides of the countries.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2024
Ayden - Traveled, July 2024
Fantastic trip, Tatiana was super informative & organised, lots of history and gorgeous scenery - loved this trip so much!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, July 2024
Enjoyed this trip immensely. Underrated countries, full of beautiful landscapes, history, and food. Itinerary was a good blend of city sightings and outdoor activities, as well as group time and individual free time. I had so many favorites but the time in the Aukštaiciu national park was superb. The property/tiny little town and home cooked meals were so delightful and relaxing. I do recommend staying an extra night for Vilnius. A half afternoon is a short time. Lastly, recommend reserving restaurants on free nights as the Baltic food scene is quite good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/21/2024
Greta - Traveled, June 2024
Our Leader gave us so much to take home with amazing food choices, knowledge of the countries and being very organised. Highly recommend a tour with Tanya!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2024
Katrina - Traveled, June 2024
An excellent overview of a little known area of the world. A great mix of relaxation time in the outdoors and exploring fascinating medieval cities and learning about their complex history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/28/2024
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