Baltic Experience

12 Days | Discover diverse delights in Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

4.9 out of 5 based on 45 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
USD $3,250
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Experience the diverse delights of the Baltic states on this 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, hidden delights await. Visit colourful markets, be immersed in art and architecture and kayak Lithuanian lakes. Join us and discover the rich history and fascinating customs of this region on our journey from Helsinki to Vilnius.

Trip overview

Map of Baltic Experience including Estonia, Finland, Latvia and Lithuania
Start
Helsinki, Finland
Finish
Vilnius, Lithuania
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
BMSE
This trip generates 18.97 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • With its perfectly preserved medieval wall and watchtowers, Tallinn's quaint Old Town is a great place to explore on foot.
  • Explore 13th-century Turaida Castle on a guided tour, then wander through pristine woodlands and along the winding Guaja River.
  • Aukstaitija National Park offers unique opportunities for both action and relaxation. Kayak across pristine lakes, indulge in home-cooked meals or cleanse yourself in a traditional sauna.
  • Cycle along the endless dunes and stunning beaches of Lithuania's Curonian Spit National Park on a full-day bike tour, making a visit to charming Nida village.
  • See the whimsical and ornate architecture of Riga’s Old Town, where the narrow and pastel-coloured buildings house bars and restaurants.

Is this trip right for you?
  • There is a reason ‘baltic’ is used as slang to describe chilly weather. Areas visited on this trip can be very cold throughout the year, especially in the evening and at the start and end of the season. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions, including thermal layers, a warm hat, gloves, a scarf, a raincoat and/or an umbrella etc.
  • This trip is designed to give you a fair amount of free time so you can explore each destination at your own pace.
  • This trip involves regular orientation walks. While this may be tiring for some, it’s the best way to get your bearings in a new place and set yourself up for further discoveries.
  • This trip involves some long journeys by bus and train (up to 7 hours) so please read the itinerary carefully for estimates. Using public transport is better for the environment and you’ll get an authentic look at daily life, plus it’s a good chance to grab a nap or watch the world go by.
  • If you have more time to explore the region you can extend your trip by starting your travels in either Copenhagen or Oslo. Check out our trips 'Scandinavia & Baltic Circuit' (trip code AMSOC) and 'Oslo to Vilnius' (trip code BMSCC). Most departure dates are designed to create these perfect combination trips.
  • On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight between 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Itinerary

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2023 to 31 December 2023.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Map of Baltic Experience including Estonia, Finland, Latvia and Lithuania

Inclusions

Meals

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Transport

Public bus, Ferry, Canoe, Private vehicle, Train, Tram, Cable car

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights), Homestay (2 nights)

Activities
  • Sigulda - Gauja River Cable Car
  • Sigulda - Day Trip
  • Sigulda - Turaida Castle Guided Tour
  • Siauliai - Hill of Crosses
  • Curonian Spit - Bike Ride
  • Curonian Spit - Full Day Trip to the National Park
  • Aukstaitija National Park - Guided Kayak Trip
Add on activities
  • Helsinki - Ateneum Art Museum - EUR20
  • Helsinki - Cathedral - Free
  • Helsinki - City Museum - Free
  • Helsinki - Design Museum - EUR15
  • Helsinki - Mannerheim Museum - EUR14
  • Helsinki - Open-Air Museum Seurasaari - EUR10
  • Helsinki - National Museum of Finland - EUR16
  • Helsinki - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress - EUR7
  • Helsinki - Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum - EUR18
  • Helsinki - Rock Church - EUR5
  • Tallinn - Estonian History Museum - EUR12
  • Tallinn - Kadriorg Palace - EUR9
  • Tallinn - Peter The Great Museum - EUR5
  • Tallinn - City Bike Tour - EUR25
  • Tallinn - City Museum - EUR6
  • Tallinn - Kiek in de Kök Tower Museum - EUR12
  • Tallinn - TV Tower - EUR15
  • Tallinn - The Estonian Maritime Museum - EUR25
  • Tallin - Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom - EUR11
  • Riga - Riverboat Cruise - EUR20
  • Riga - St Peter's Tower - EUR9
  • Riga - Central Market Halls - Free
  • Riga - Museum of Occupation of Latvia - EUR5
  • Riga - Beer Spa - EUR121
  • Riga - Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum - EUR5
  • Riga - Riga Art Nouveau Center - EUR9
  • Aukstaitija National Park - Sauna - EUR50
  • Aukstaitija National Park - Bike Hire - EUR15
  • Trakai - History Museum & Castle - EUR12
  • Vilnius - TV Tower - EUR13
  • Vilnius - Gediminas Castle Tower - EUR6
  • Vilnius - University Museum - EUR3
  • Vilnius - National Museum - EUR4
  • Vilnius - Museum Of Occupations And Freedom Fights - EUR6

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1.A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 9,10 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. .
2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for ferry tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets
3. You don't have a lot of time in Helsinki and Vilnius at the start and the end of the trip respectively, so if you're keen to explore these spectacular cities in depth, we recommend you arrive a day or two before the start of the trip and/or extend your stay at the end.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 45 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

Filter by rating

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
Review submitted 17 Sep 2023

John · Traveled September 2023
Absolutely blown away by the countries and beauty of the cities and countryside, would highly recommend to anyone! Alex was such an amazing guide and really made the holiday for us!
Review submitted 17 Sep 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.
Review submitted 03 Sep 2023

Rosemarie · Traveled August 2023
Review submitted 02 Sep 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.
Review submitted 19 Aug 2023
Baltic Experience
From
USD $3,250