Baltic States Travel Itinerary 10 Days
In the northeast of Europe you’ll find the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania). The three countries are not very well-known as travel destinations, which was precisely the reason for us to visit. So, we traveled to all three countries in the fall of 2024 and mapped out a 10-day Baltic states travel itinerary for you. And just like for every other destination, we’ve also created a Google Maps travel guide Baltic States!
Day 1: Flight to Lithuania (Vilnius)
Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson Vilnius
We opted for a later flight to Lithuania (Vilnius), so we couldn’t do any activities on the first day. When you arrive early, you can already explore the old town of Vilnius!
Day 2: Visit Vilnius
Activities: Trakai Island Castle (1), Vilnius Old Town (2)
Distance: 50 km
Accommodation: Vilnius City Hotel
Vilnius is really a lovely city! The old town has a charming atmosphere. Be sure to try some local food, for example at Etno Dvaras. Curious about what else to do in Vilnius and how much time you’ll need for the city? Check out tips what to do in Vilnius!
Day 3: Road Trip Vilnius to Daugavpils
Activities: Museum of occupations and freedom fights (Vilnius), Labaronas Tower (3), Daugavpils
Distance: 200 km
Accommodation: Park Hotel Latgola
In the morning, there’s still time to explore more of Vilnius. From the hotel, it’s a 20-minute walk to the ‘Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights’. Definitely worth a visit, because you can learn more about the Cold War from Lithuania’s perspective.
The drive to Daugavpils (Latvia) is easy. The roads are of good quality, except for a small stretch that is unpaved, which is most likely due to temporary roadworks. Daugavpils itself isn’t very remarkable.
Day 4: Drive from Daugavpils to Tartu
Activities: Tartu (4)
Distance: 350 km
Accommodation: Hugo Stay Apartments
Today is a long travel day through Latvia. You’ll pass through several small villages via both paved and unpaved roads. The final destination is Tartu: the European Capital of Culture 2024! There’s a bit less to do here during the fall break, but it’s still very charming and definitely worth a visit.
Tip: Download the Via Michelin app for a detailed view of the roads.
Day 5: Drive from Tartu to Tallinn
Activities: Sauna Ring Hostel, Tallinn (5)
Distance: 200 km
Accommodation: Ring Sport Hostel
The journey from Tartu to Tallinn only takes a few hours, so there is still time in the morning to explore more of Tartu. However, we opted for a sauna day in Tallinn at Ring Hostel. As a hostel guest, you get a nice discount on the pool and sauna. So have a relaxing evening afther your city visit. By the way, Ring Hostel is not a typical hostel as there are separate rooms with private bathrooms. Perfect for couples on a budget!
Day 6: Visit Tallinn
Activities: Tallinn city, beach
Distance: 100 km
Accommodation: Ring Sport Hostel
Tallinn is truly a very atmospheric city! The city walls clearly separate the newer and older parts. Each street has its own unique vibe, with cobblestones as pavement. By the way, Tallinn also has a more modern area and a part that looks a bit more run-down. The typical apartment buildings, which are abundant, can be found, for example, around the Ring Hostel area.
Tip: make sure to bring cash if you want to pay at a parking meter, as debit cards are generally not accepted.
Day 7: Island Saaremaa, Drive to Pärnu
Activities: Saarema (6), Ozolkalns (7)
Distance: 300 km
Accommodation: Pärnu Jahtklubi Külalistemaja
Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia and from Virtsu, it’s a 20-minute boat ride. In October, it’s not necessary to make a reservation in advance. However, if you wish to do so, you can reserve through the Saaremaa ferry website.
On the island, you’ll pass large stretches of countryside with a few wooden cottages scattered around. It feels like time has stood still here! The villages aren’t very impressive, but we do recommend visiting Kuressaare. Here, you’ll also find a beautiful castle!
Day 8: Drive From Pärnu to Riga
Activities: Riga (8)
Distance: 250 km
Accommodation: The Pearl Riga
The capital of Latvia is on the agenda for today! In our opinion, it’s the least beautiful capital of this trip due to its size, but still definitely worth walking through. There are plenty of restaurants where you can try local food. On almost every street corner, you’ll find a church. This gives the city an authentic feel. If you’re a true city lover, Riga is definitely a place where you could spend two days.
Day 9: From Riga to Kaunas
Activities: Rundale Palace (9), Hill of Crosses (10)
Distance: 350 km
Accommodation: Best Baltic Kaunas
On your way to Kaunas, you’ll pass by the Rundale Palace. You can walk around it for free, but there is a small entrance fee to visit the interior. After that, continue your journey to the Hill of Crosses: literally a hill with thousands of crosses! This is a very unique sight. The first crosses were placed on this hill around 1800.
Day 10: Back to Vilnius, Flight Home
Distance: 150 km
The last day of the 10-day Baltic States travel itinerary has arrived! Whether you have time to explore Vilnius again depends on the time of your flight.
