Discover the Baltic States: Jewish Heritage and Landscapes
- 9 DAYS
- 3 COUNTRIES
- March, April, May
Explore the Baltic States on an 8-day journey through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, combining rich Jewish heritage, history, and natural beauty. Visit Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, Riga, and Tallinn, discovering UNESCO-listed Old Towns, synagogues, museums, castles, and iconic sites like the Hill of Crosses and the Curonian Spit. Enjoy cultural insights, scenic landscapes, and historical stories that bring the region’s past and present to life.
Price from
Per person
Welcome to Vilnius, the vibrant capital of Lithuania. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your private chauffeur and transferred to your hotel. Take time to relax and unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming city, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through its elegant streets, where centuries of history and contemporary culture beautifully intertwine. Overnight in Vilnius.
Key Highlights: Vilnius
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: –
Transfer: Vilnius airport – hotel
Meals:
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Local guide, Vilna Gaon Museum of Jewish History museum guide, Samuel Bak Museum guide
Transfer: –
Meals: Breakfast
After check-out from the hotel in Vilnius, a private transfer will take you towards Trakai, where the first stop of the day is the enchanting Trakai Castle, situated on the shores of a picturesque lake. It stands as the sole Gothic castle in the Baltic States constructed on a lake island. After the tour, enjoy a well-deserved break at a local Karaim restaurant and taste the traditional pie known as kibin.
In the afternoon, the program continues to Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania. On the way, there will be a stop at the scenic Kaunas Lagoon (Kauno marios) with the opportunity to take a short 2 km hike along the Pažaislis Monastery hiking trail. This peaceful path winds through a pine forest and along the shores of the lagoon, offering beautiful views of the baroque Pažaislis Monastery, one of the most important architectural and spiritual monuments in Lithuania. The combination of nature and heritage makes this hike both refreshing and culturally enriching. Alternatively, it is possible to visit the Ninth Fort Museum (*optional). Part of the Kaunas Fortress built in the late 19th century, the site later became infamous during World War II as a place of mass executions. Today, the museum presents powerful exhibitions on the Holocaust in Lithuania, the fate of Kaunas Jews, and stories of resistance. A professional museum guide will provide an in-depth introduction, helping to understand both the tragic history and the resilience of those who suffered here.
After that, head for a sightseeing tour in Kaunas, which includes Kaunas is also celebrated as a city of modernist architecture, with many interwar buildings recognized by UNESCO. The walk reveals how Kaunas developed as the temporary capital of Lithuania in the interwar period and how it has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub today. There will be free time for lunch along the route in Kaunas. The day concludes in Klaipėda, the third-largest city in Lithuania, nestled along the Baltic Sea coast. Hotel check-in and overnight in Klaipėda.
Key Highlights: Trakai, Kaunas, Klaipeda
Optional Experiences: – 1 hour tour of the IX Fort Museum with a museum guide / 50 € per person
Guide: Local Guide
Transfer: Hotel in Vilnius – Trakai – Kaunas – Klaipėda
Meals: Breakfast, Kibin tasting
After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to Smiltynė, followed by a short ferry crossing to the Curonian Spit, a unique sandy and wooded cultural landscape featuring small settlements along the Curonian Lagoon. The day begins with a guided hike on the Hill of Witches (Raganų Kalnas), exploring fascinating wooden sculptures and learning about local legends and folklore. As the trail leads through the majestic High Dunes, admire the sweeping views of the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea, imagining the lives of the fishermen who once lived here. In Nida, stroll past the charming streets to Thomas Mann’s summerhouse, where the famed writer found inspiration and tranquility, a place that echoes the artistic and cultural heritage of the region. Enjoy free time for lunch at a local café in Nida.
In the afternoon, return to Klaipėda, stopping at the Dutchman’s Cap (Olandų Kepurė), a 16–18 metre-high cliff constantly washed by the waves of the Baltic Sea. This cliff is the highest on the Lithuanian seashore and is included in the List of Natural Heritage of Lithuania. The day concludes with a short guided walking tour of Klaipėda Old Town, showcasing remarkable examples of German architecture and the city’s vibrant cultural atmosphere. Overnight in Klaipėda.
Key Highlights: Klaipeda, Nida, Dutchman’s Cap
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Local guide
Transfer:Hotel in Klaipeda – Nida – Dutchman’c Cap – Klaipeda
Meals: Breakfast
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel restaurant in Klaipėda. After check-out, a private transfer takes you to Palanga, a charming seaside resort. Stroll along Basanavičiaus Street, the town’s lively main promenade, and visit the famous Palanga Pier, enjoying views of the Baltic Sea.The journey continues towards Riga, with a stop at one of Lithuania’s most awe-inspiring sights – the legendary Hill of Crosses. This unique pilgrimage site, where thousands of crosses have been placed over centuries, continues to endure despite numerous attempts to remove them. It is a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and national identity. There will be an opportunity for photographs and to take in the atmosphere of this remarkable place.
Following the visit, enjoy free time for lunch. After lunch, continue to the Rundāle Palace, the “pearl of Latvia,” built in the 18th century as the summer residence of the Duke of Courland, Ernest Johann von Biron. Explore the magnificent palace interiors and stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens. In the late afternoon, arrive in Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States. Hotel check-in and overnight in Riga.
Key Highlights: Palanga, Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, Riga
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Local guide, Rundāle Palace museum guide
Transfer: Hotel in Klaipeda – Palanga – Hill of Crosses – Rundāle Palace – Riga
Meals: Breakfast
Begin the morning with breakfast at the hotel restaurant in Riga. Meet your guide at the hotel for a Jewish Heritage Tour of Riga, exploring the rich history and stories of the Jewish community. The tour starts at the Peitavas Street Synagogue, an Art Nouveau masterpiece. Learn about the arrival of Jewish settlers in Riga and explore the synagogue, designed by Wilhelm Neumann, which has endured both Nazi occupation and Soviet rule. Walk along Richarda Vagnera Street, uncovering the story behind R. Vagner, and stop by the house of Phillipe Halsman, the renowned American portrait photographer, discovering his connection to Salvador Dali. Continue to the iconic Laima Clock and visit the Jewish theater, now home to the Jewish community and the Jews of Latvia Museum.
Key Highlights: Jewish in Riga
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Jews of Latvia Museum, Ghetto Museum, Janis Lipke Museum guides, local guide
Transfer: Riga – Salaspils – Janis Lipke Museum – Hotel in Riga
Meals: Breakfast
Start the morning with breakfast at the hotel restaurant in Riga. After check-out, a private transfer with your guide takes you towards Sigulda, one of Latvia’s most picturesque towns. Explore the Turaida Medieval Castle and its surroundings, part of the expansive Museum Reserve. The reserve includes the castle itself, a wooden church, several historic buildings, and a charming sculpture garden, offering a glimpse into the art, architecture, and history of the region.
Continue the journey to Pärnu, Estonia’s undisputed summer capital. Enjoy a short guided tour of the town, strolling along its sandy beaches and elegant streets, then have free time for lunch at a local café. In the late afternoon, arrive in Tallinn, the Estonian capital, rich in medieval charm and vibrant cultural life. Explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, with cobbled streets, historic guild halls, and picturesque squares. Admire landmarks such as the Town Hall Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Toompea Hill, where panoramic views of the city unfold. Tallinn also boasts a lively café culture and numerous galleries, reflecting its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity. Check in at hotel in Tallinn. Overnight in Tallinn.
Key Highlights: Turaida, Pärnu, Tallinn
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Local Guide
Transfer: Hotel in Riga – Turaida – Pärnu – Hotel in Tallinn
Meals: Breakfast
Start the morning with breakfast at the hotel restaurant in Tallinn. Your guide will take you to the Estonian Jewish Museum, exploring the rich history and heritage of the Jewish community in Estonia. Continue to the Tallinn Jewish Synagogue Beit Bella, the first synagogue built in post-war Estonia. Most of Estonia’s 2,000 Jews, including 700 Holocaust survivors, live in Tallinn and participate actively in Jewish social life.
Explore the medieval Old Town of Tallinn, one of the best-preserved old towns in Northern Europe. Stroll along the oldest streets and discover the city’s most significant sights, including Town Hall Square, St. Olav’s Church, Toompea Castle, and the picturesque Catherine’s Passage, among others.
Enjoy free time for lunch at a local café. In the afternoon, visit Kadriorg Park, Estonia’s most outstanding palatial and urban park, followed by a hike along Pirita Beach, taking in the scenic coastline. Continue through the green, elegant residential area to the Pirita Marina, former site of the Olympic yachting events and still host to international competitions, with a photo stop at the coast. Return to Tallinn for overnight at the hotel.
Key Highlights: Jewish in Tallinn
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: Estonian Jewish Museum guide, local guide
Transfer: Tallinn center – Kadriorg Park – Pirita Beach – Hotel in Tallinn
Meals: Breakfast
Today you will be picked up from your hotel to transfer privately to the airport where you will check into your international flight home.
Key Highlights: –
Optional Experiences: –
Guide: –
Transfer: Hotel in Tallinn – Tallinn airport
Meals: Breakfast
Interested in a personalized tour?
Tour package include:
8 Nights at well-appointed 4* & 5* hotels
Throughout the entire tour, you will be accompanied by the knowledgeable and licensed English speaking guides who will provide insightful commentary, share fascinating stories, and offer expert guidance. Your guides will ensure that you gain a deeper understanding of the destinations, cultures, and historical significance of the Baltic States. Other languages on request.
Each morning, you will be treated to a delicious breakfast at the hotels. Fuel up for the day ahead with a variety of breakfast options, ensuring that you start your mornings on a satisfying note.
Entrance fees and activities:
– Lithuanian Jewish Culture and Identity Museum
– Samuel Bak Museum
– Trakai Castle
– Thomas Mann summerhouse
– Rundale Palace
– Jews of Latvia Museum
– Riga Ghetto Museum
– Lipke Museum
– Turaida Castle
– Estonian Jewish Museum
– Kybin tastingReturn ferry ticket to Nida, including the ecology fee
Bottled water during all tour
City taxes
Individual private transfer (Model: MB V Class or similar) service to/from the airport
Private first-class transport (Model: MB V Class or similar) service with a dedicated driver according to the itinerary
Not included in the tour package:
The cost of international flights to and from the starting and ending destinations of the tour is not included. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own flights and ensuring they align with the tour itinerary.
Travel insurance, including medical, trip cancellation, and baggage insurance, is not included. It is highly recommended that you obtain appropriate travel insurance coverage to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances and provide peace of mind throughout your journey.
The tour may offer optional, excursions, activities, or meals that are not included in the base price. These optional services provide an opportunity to customize your experience and may include additional charges. Participants can choose to partake in these activities at their discretion.
While the tour package includes the essential elements mentioned, additional services such as visa fees, airport transfers outside of designated times, gratuities for a guide and driver, also as personal expenses are not covered. Any expenses incurred beyond the scope of the tour itinerary will be the responsibility of the individual traveler.
