Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki & Karelia
Explore Latvia, Estonia and Finland on this 10 day escorted tour. Take in the highlights of two Baltic capitals, cosmopolitan Riga, with its flamboyant Art Nouveau architecture, and Tallinn, with its picturesque, medieval Old Town. Then cross the Gulf of Finland to explore the vibrant Nordic capital of Helsinki before heading to the picturesque resort town of Lappeenranta in South Karelia. set on the shores of spectacular Lake Saimaa, Finland's largest lake.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Riga
Day 1 Riga
Upon arrival at Riga airport you'll be met and transferred to our hotel in the heart of Latvia's capital. The rest of the day is at free for you to independently explore. A welcome meeting will be held this evening, in the lobby, at approx. 7pm.
Day 2 Riga Old Town
Day 2 Riga Old Town
This morning we explore Latvia's charming capital, Riga. Founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, it is the largest of the three Baltic capitals. On a walking tour of the city we take in some of the Old Town's beautiful architecture and multi-coloured buildings. Our first stop is Riga Castle which sits on the banks of the River Daugava. Next we'll see the Dome Cathedral and St Peters Church. Continuing on we'll explore the areas that are home to the Three Brothers as well as the Large and Small Guild buildings.
This afternoon is free for you to explore Riga independently. Alternatively you can join an optional excursion to Jurmala, a vibrant Latvian seaside resort, famed for it's sandy beaches and pretty wooden architecture.
This evening there is an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
Day 3 Riga optional excursions
Day 3 Riga optional excursions
Today offers free time to further explore Riga independently or join our optional excursions. In the morning you can discover medieval Latvia on an optional tour of stunning Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before returning to Riga.
The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open-Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life.
Day 4 Parnu
Day 4 Parnu
Riga - Parnu - Tallinn (Estonia). We continue along the coastal highway this morning, crossing the border into Estonia and making our way to the beautiful summer resort town of Parnu. We enjoy a short tour of Parnu before making our way through the lush forests of Northern Estonia. Arriving into Tallinn this afternoon the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 5 Tallinn
Day 5 Tallinn
This morning we embark on a sightseeing tour of Tallinn, the third Baltic capital. This picturesque city offers a charming blend of medieval and modern. The beautiful Old Town is a friendly, bustling place during the summer months with locals and tourists sampling the many fantastic cafes, galleries and shops. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall.
This afternoon is free to explore Tallinn independently or you may wish to join an optional excursion to Kadriorg Park and a visit to the KUMU, the award winning new Estonian art museum.
This evening there's an optional medieval dinner in the Old Town.
Day 6 Tallinn to Helsinki
Day 6 Tallinn to Helsinki
Tallinn - Helsinki (Finland). This morning there's an optional day excursion to Lahemaa National Park, where we visit Palmse Manor, a memorial to the von Pahlen family, and Sagadi Manor. The tour ends with a visit to the charming 16th century Vihula Manor and the Vodka Museum. After a break for lunch we head back to Tallinn to take the ferry to Helsinki. Enjoy the scenery en route as we travel through the Finnish archipelago en route to Finland's seaside capital. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel.
Day 7 Helsinki city tour
Day 7 Helsinki city tour
This morning we explore Helsinki, the green and lively Finnish capital. Our guided tour takes us around the harbours and Senate Square with its Lutheran Cathedral, we will also see the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall and the Sibelius Monument before visiting the famous Church-in-the-Rock.
In the afternoon there's an optional excursion to the 18th century Suomenlinna Fortress, a cultural gem set on an island.
Day 8 South Karelia
Day 8 South Karelia
Tallinn - Lappeenranta. This morning we board a train to Lappeenranta in South Karelia, arriving shortly after midday. Set on the shores of beautiful Lake Saimaa, Lappeenranta was an important Swedish fortress town in the 18th century. In the recent years, the picturesque town has become a popular resort. We explore Lappeenranta on a walking tour, taking in the historical Old Town, the port area, Lappeenranta fortress, wooden Orthodox Mary the Virgin Church and more.
Late afternoon we walk to the pier and embark on a 3 hour long evening cruise on Lake Saimaa and the Saimaa Canal. The ship has a restaurant, where you can enjoy drinks and snacks or a meal while enjoying spectacular views of the lake.
Day 9 Back to Helsinki
Day 9 Back to Helsinki
Lappeenranta - Helsinki. Today is free to spend at leisure exploring this resort town. Our hotel is located between the Old Town and the port area which are both easily accessed. Check out the small boutique shops in the Old Town and grab a Karelian lunch at one of the local restaurants or simply enjoy the atmosphere and the picturesque views at the port. In the late afternoon we transfer to the train station and travel by train back to Helsinki for our final night.
Day 10 Helsinki
Day 10 Helsinki
Our tour ends after breakfast today with an included transfer to Helsinki airport.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Ideally situated in the centre of Riga just 400 meters from the historical old town, the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija offers impressive views over the city. The contemporary styled guestrooms are spacious and well equipped to cater for those visiting for leisure, business and even families with children. Guests can soak up the fabulous city views in the stylish Skyline bar located on the 26th floor. Or why not relax and visit the brand new and conceptually unique Spa Riga.
This centrally located hotel offers tastefully decorated guestrooms with modern conveniences such as high-speed WiFi, 24-hour room service and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can enjoy an elegant Mediterranean dinner at the on-site Senso Restaurant or lighter bites at the delightful Café Boulevard. On the top floor you’ll find Club 26, where you can take a refreshing swim in the pool, work out in the well-equipped gym or relax in the sauna, all whilst admiring magnificent views over Estonia’s capital.
Located in the heart of Lappeenranta, South Karelia, the Hotel Scandic Patria is a perfect place to explore the resort town. With its modern and well-appointed rooms, the hotel ensures a comfortable and cosy atmosphere, complete with essential amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can savour a scrumptious breakfast buffet at the on-site restaurant, which also serves delectable Finnish and international dishes. The hotel's bar is a relaxing space to unwind with a refreshing drink. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the well-equipped fitness centre and sauna facilities.
Located in the trendy Design District of Helsinki and housed in a 1900s Art Noveu Castle, the GLO Hotel Art is a fantastic place to stay in this buzzing city. In the Glo Art's restaurant you'll find a delicious menu taking inspiration from both European and Nordic influences. All rooms are stylish in decor and offer comfortable beds and furnishing along with en suite bathrooms.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Dinner Supplement
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