Baltic Christmas Markets Tour

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.