Discover the magic of the Baltics whilst visiting three of Northern Europe’s most enchanting (and underrated) capital cities: Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius. From Tallinn’s medieval lanes and fairytale towers to Riga’s grand boulevards and Vilnius’s ornate churches, each city has its own unique character and charm. Along the way, enjoy included activites with the group like learning to cook Estonian dishes, stepping inside the striking House of the Black Heads in Riga, and visiting the storybook island castle of Trakai just outside Vilnius.
Your tour starts off in Tallinn, where you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers in the evening in the hostel.
Start your first full day in Tallinn with coffee and a golden, flaky pastry in the Rotermanni Quarter, a former industrial area turned creative hub where minimalist cafés and artisan bakeries line the streets. With its clean design and laid-back vibe, it feels distinctly Scandinavian and is the perfect place to ease into the city.
Step through the iconic Viru Gate into Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed medieval quarter, wandering hidden courtyards and streets steeped in centuries of charm. Next, climb Toompea Hill for panoramic views over red rooftops and gothic spires, then visit the ornate Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its dramatic domes and richly decorated interior.
For lunch, explore the vibrant Balti Jaam Market, a modern, indie-style market bursting with artisanal foods and offering a mix of Estonian classics and international street eats. As the sun sets, head to a scenic viewpoint like Kohtuotsa or Patkuli before enjoying dinner in a candlelit tavern or cocktails in one of Tallinn’s cosy, creative bars. This city truly has it all.
Included Activity:
Estonian Cuisine Cooking Class Learn to cook a 3-course meal of traditional Estonian dishes from scratch with a local chef as your guide. Enjoy a lively and interactive experience filled with fun and laughter.
Suggested:
Tallinn Old Town & Viru Gate – Step through the iconic twin towers into one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns, full of charming cobbled streets and historic architecture.
Toompea Hill & Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – Take in sweeping city views from Toompea Hill and admire the stunning cathedral nearby..
Balti Jaam Market – Experience Tallinn’s vibrant food and craft scene in this modern, hip market blending tradition with indie vibes.
Coach to Riga – 4.5 hours
Spend two nights in Riga, starting with a laid-back brunch at a local café before exploring the historic centre. Wander quiet side streets, leafy parks, and landmarks like Riga Cathedral, the House of the Blackheads, and St Peter’s Church. Be sure to climb the church tower for sweeping views over the city and river.
Later, visit the Central Market, a beloved local spot housed in former airship hangars, where you can pick up fresh berries, smoked fish, and pastries. Take a break in Bastejkalna Park, a peaceful green space that follows the canal and offers a calm retreat from the busy city streets. Cross the river to Ķīpsala, a tranquil neighbourhood of wooden houses and riverside paths with excellent skyline views.
In the afternoon, explore the Art Nouveau district, especially Alberta iela, famous for its ornate façades and intricate carvings. Art lovers should stop by the Latvian National Museum of Art for an insightful glimpse into local design and history. When evening falls, Riga’s dining scene has something for everyone, from relaxed, low-key spots to livelier restaurants serving Baltic and modern European dishes. Finish the night with a drink at a rooftop bar or a cosy pub.
Included Activity:
Entrance Ticket – House of the Black Heads (Ticket & Coffee): For the past 700 hundred years, the House of the Black Heads has pleased and enraptured inhabitants and guests of Riga. This is one of the most magnificent buildings in Riga, preserving both the unique historic heritage of the legendary Brotherhood of Black Heads and the history of Riga.
Suggested:
Riga Old Town – Wander its charming cobbled streets and admire landmarks like the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral.
Central Market – Explore this bustling market housed in historic Zeppelin hangars, offering fresh local produce and traditional treats.
Art Nouveau District – Stroll along Alberta iela to see some of Europe’s finest Art Nouveau architecture, with stunning façades and intricate details.
Coach to Vilnius – 4 hours
The perfect place to end your Baltics adventure, spend two nights in Vilnius, one of Europe’s most underrated capitals. Begin with brunch at a neighbourhood café before heading into the heart of the Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved in the region. Its mix of Baroque churches, hidden courtyards, and bohemian corners creates a laid-back yet distinctive atmosphere. Climb Gediminas’ Tower for panoramic city views, or start the day more gently with a stroll through Bernardinai Garden and along the river.
Cross over into Užupis, Vilnius’ quirky, self-declared republic known for its street art, galleries, and creative spaces. For a more reflective visit, the former KGB prison, now the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, offers a sobering insight into Lithuania’s Soviet-era history. Later, explore the city’s modern side at the MO Museum or browse independent shops and markets. As evening falls, Vilnius offers a variety of excellent dining options, ranging from traditional local dishes to international menus. Finish your day with a relaxed drink in one of the city’s intimate bars or lively nightspots.
Included Activity:
Trakai Tour: Travel by air-conditioned minibus to the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in the pretty lakeside town of Trakai. Listen to an informative audio guide on the journey, and then get 2.5 hours to explore the historic Old Town at your own pace. See the amazing Insular Castle and well-preserved ruins of Peninsula Castle, constructed in the 14th century before falling into disrepair in the 17th century. Rebuilt after World War II, Insular Castle is now considered a major landmark of Lithuania. Learn about the small ethnic Karaites people who settled in Trakai, along with the Tartars, Russians, Jews and Poles who followed. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Galvė – the deepest of the region’s 200 lakes – before your return journey to Vilnius.
Suggested:
Vilnius Old Town – One of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval centres, filled with Baroque churches, hidden courtyards, and lively squares.
Užupis – The quirky, self-declared republic known for its creative spirit, street art, and independent galleries.
Gediminas’ Tower – Climb this historic tower for panoramic views over Vilnius and the surrounding area.
The quickest way to get to and from the UK will be to book a flight. If you want to travel from the UK to Tallinn and back from Vilnius by train it is possible but you’ll need an extra week or two to spare to make it happen. If you’d like to plan a custom adventure and and from the group tour then please get in touch!