Baltic christmas Tour
Baltic Christmas Markets Tour
Experience the magical Christmas markets of the Baltic States on this Baltic Christmas tour through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Visit colourful Christmas markets, be immersed in local culture and traditions and take part in authentic experiences. Let your Baltic Christmas Tour start and join us to discover the magical Christmas markets and fascinating traditions of this region on a journey from Vilnius to Tallinn.
This Baltic Christmas Tour itinerary was created by a local expert to give you the best chance to experience the magic of Christmas in the Baltic States. It is ready to be customised to suit your budget, interests and tastes so you can make the most out of your trip on your own terms and departing whenever you choose. This tour is available from late November till early January.
Highlights
- Explore the magical Baltic Christmas markets
- Stroll the winding cobbled streets and narrow alleyways
- Discover Christmas traditions and food of the Baltic States
- Stay in a handpicked selection of accommodations with local flair
Baltic Christmas Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Vilnius!
On your arrival at the airport a driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it and will drive you to your accommodation. The journey takes about 20 minutes.
If you arrive in Vilnius early, you can immediately start exploring its charming Old Town, admire the stunning baroque architecture, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. If you’d like to add any additional tours or activities to your Baltic Christmas Tour package, please let us know.
Day 2: Discover Vilnius Christmas Markets
Discover the secrets of a traditional Lithuanian Christmas on this special Christmas tour. Explore the city’s bustling Christmas markets, learn about its unique pagan festive traditions, try traditional yuletide treats and shop for authentic Christmas trinkets and gifts for friends and loved ones. There are two Christmas Markets in Vilnius, one is set up in Vilnius Cathedral Square and the other is outside the Vilnius Town Hall. Linksmų Šv. Kalėdų! (that’s Merry Christmas in Lithuanian if you hadn’t guessed already).
Free time: After your tour you will have some free time to explore Vilnius in more depth. Head out to Europe’s most creative community – the Republic of Užupis which has its own constitution and president. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum) which was originally the KGB headquarters and prison, it was also the site of torture and execution, so some people might find the prison a little overwhelming. You may also wish to take a walk to reach places such as the Hill of Three Crosses or St Peter & St Paul’s Church – a white miracle of belief. Ask your tour leader for more suggestions on what to do in your free time. Alternatively these can be added as extra tours for an additional fee. If you’d like to add any of these to your Baltic Christmas tour, please contact us for more information.
Day 3: Day Trip from Vilnius
Your trip to Lithuania wouldn’t be complete without exploring the beautiful Lithuanian countryside. It’s time to visit a rural community center and learn about Lithuanian traditions by taking a hands-on workshop of old Lithuanian crafts. Have lunch and head on to explore the picturesque town of Trakai with a local expert guide by your side. Learn about the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, hear legends about Trakai Castle(s) and Lithuania’s affluent past. Ice skate around the island and the castle and admire the magical medieval atmosphere. The duration of the tour is about 8 hours.
Day 4: Vilnius to Riga by Private Transfer
It’s time to change one Baltic capital to another and travel to Latvia. You driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Vilnius and take you to Riga. Along the way you will visit a UNESCO listed pilgrimage site known as the Hill of Crosses – unique and ever changing monument of faith. After your stop there you will continue to the baroque pearl, Rundale Palace where you have free time to explore the palace on your own. The journey takes around 8 hours, including stops.
Day 5: Explore Riga Christmas Markets
Get ready to explore the beautiful and decorated Riga old town and its magical Christmas markets with a local guide. The most famous Riga Christmas Market is located at the Dome Square. Walk through the winding streets and cobbled alleys of the Old Town and discover the hidden past from 1201 all the way to the present day. This will be the perfect introduction to Riga, its Christmas traditions and people.
Free time: On your free time head to the Art Nouveau district. Alberta Street is a good place to start and you can also find the Art Nouveau Museum there. You may also wish to catch a show at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet or join an organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. On Saturdays and Sundays head to Kalnciema Quarter for their weekly local farmers and artisans market. Ask your guide for more suggestions on what to do in your free time. Alternatively some of these services can be added as extra tours for an additional fee. If you’d like to add any of these to your Baltic Christmas tour, please contact us for more information.
Day 6: Riga to Tallinn by Bus
Today you will leave Riga behind and travel to Estonia, and its capital Tallinn. You driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Riga and take you to the bus station. Tickets and seat reservation on this 4,5-hour journey with a modern and luxurious bus will be provided. On arrival, another driver is waiting for you at the bus station to take you to your hotel in the centre of Tallinn.
Day 7: Visit Tallinn Christmas Market
Walk around the Old Town and find out where the Hanseatic merchants got spices for making gingerbread, how the Christmas drinks were made and the first Christmas tree was brought to the Town Hall Square, but you can also hear many other stories. In 2019, Tallinn Christmas Market was named the best in Europe!
Free time: After your city tour head out of the old town and explore one of the surrounding neighbourhoods. Beautiful and tranquil Kadriorg park and palace, built more than 300 years ago on the orders of Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Vibrant Telliskivi Creative City with numerous design shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. Rotermann Quarter, a former industrial centre turned into one of the city’s most prominent oases of modern architecture or a newest addition to the city – Noblessner seafront quarter. A former submarine factory, now a modern urban space filled with galleries, design shops, a marina, and restaurants perfect for admiring one of the city’s Christmas trees.
Day 8: Farewell!
Today it’s time to say goodbye and end our Baltic Christmas Markets Tour. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport for your departing flight.
What’s Included
The Package Includes
- 7 nights accommodation
- Transfers
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- English Speaking local guides
- Vilnius, Riga & Tallinn Christmas Tours
- Trakai and Craft Centre Tour
- Bus tickets
- Highly personalised itinerary planning
- 24/7 support from local staff
The Package Excludes
- International flights
- Tips for services and experiences
- Visas
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and other meals listed as included in the itinerary).
- Travel Insurance
- COVID Vaccinations Pre Arrival
- Departure COVID Testing. If required which we can help organize
Starting Prices
Accommodation in 3 star hotels
We offer a wide range of 3-star options from cosy B&B to modern hotels.
FROM €1275
Accommodation in 4 star hotel
We offer a wide range of 4-star options from cosy boutique to artsy hotels
FROM €1350
Accommodation in 5 star hotel
We offer a wide range of 5-star options from modern to luxury hotels.
FROM €1625
EUR per person, based on double occupancy. Prices are subject to change.
The final price will vary and is based on the exact dates.
Contact Us For An Offer
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