Best of Baltics | Winter | 2025/2026
Best of Baltics | Winter | 2025/2026
$1889
Best of Baltics | Winter | 2025/2026
8 Days Starting in Tallinn (Estonia) and ending in Vilnius
Visiting: Tallinn, Tartu, Valmiermuiza, Cesis, Riga, Jurgaiciai, Kaunas, Trakai, Vilnius
Tour Overview
Looking for a European trip that's a bit out of the ordinary? The Baltics are packed with spectacular surprises around every corner. This one swings you from Tallinn to Vilnius through some Baltic highlights, with plenty of breweries, gothic castles, street art, gorgeous coastlines and buzzing uni towns along the way. History buffs - this one's for you; but it's fair to say it's got a little something for everyone.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation Name: Ibis Tallinn Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Tallinn, Estonia's elegant capital. We'll let you explore this beautiful Baltic city for a few hours, after which our TM will give you an orientation tour, followed by a local dinner of seriously delicious local delicacies.
Day 2: Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation Name: Ibis Tallinn Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tallinn is all yours for the day, so go out and find out what makes this place so special. One of Europe's hidden gems, this early medieval era creation is now a fascinating mix of old and new.With one of the best preserved old towns in the world, a charming coastline, and gothic towers scattered around, this city will win your heart in an instant. Stop by the Estonian Open-Air Museum or take a walk to Toompea Hill for a chance to see the Old Town in all its splendour.
Day 3: Tallinn To Tartu
Location: Tallinn, Tartu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tartu (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we're setting our sights on Tartu... A town known for its upbeat nightlife, bunting-clad town square, its wealth of cultural activities, and its 17th Century university, Tartu is an Estonian hidden gem. Take the day to explore every nook and cranny alongside your new pals and TM and we'll meet back in the evening for a locally prepared meal full of cultural specialties.
Day 4: Tartu To Riga Via Valmiermuiza And Cesis
Location: Tartu, Valmiermuiza, Cesis, Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tartu, it's been emotional, but today we're heading for Latvia. An iconic tour, tasting & lunch awaits at Valmiermuiža Brewery, where we'll become acquainted with the cornerstones of brewing beer. Next, we'll stop by to visit the Cēsis Castle, one of the most iconic and best preserved castles in Latvia. Here we are in Riga! Enjoy a free evening around Latvia's capital, resting quietly on the Baltic Sea. Sitting at the border between tradition and cutting edge modernism, this city will no doubt charm you with its art nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Day 5: Riga
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You've got beautiful Riga all to yourself today, so make the most of it! Take a stroll through the Old Town and discover the House of the Black Heads (a 14th century landmark), some of the many shops and restaurants that fill the cobblestoned streets and the timeless charm of a capital steeped in over 800 years of history.
Day 6: Riga To Kaunas Via Jurgaiciai
Location: Riga, Jurgaiciai, Kaunas
Accommodation Name: Moxy Kaunas Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and we're on the road again. Today we're visiting the Hill of Crosses, an epic pilgrimage site which boasts a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues and effigies erected on a small hill in Northern Lithuania. Well hello, Kaunas! Here in this southern Lithuanian gem, we'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to river views and impressive cathedrals. Don't miss Kaunas Castle or the epic 9th Fort.
Day 7: Kaunas To Vilnius Via Trakai Castle
Location: Kaunas, Trakai, Vilnius
Accommodation Name: Ibis Vilnius Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
So long, Kaunas. We’re making our way to our next awesome destination today, and it’s none other than vibrant Vilnius! Welcome to Trakai Castle, a 14th century fortress built on an island on the glittering Lake Galve. This place looks just like a fairy tale, so cameras at the ready… Our journey ends here in Vilnius but not without a tour of the stunning baroque architecture that'll inspire you to remodel your own home. Take advantage of the street art lining the cobblestone streets and exchange details with all your new best friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
Day 8: End Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and this is where our journey sadly ends. Exchange contact information with your fellow travellers, who have now probably become friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and 1 lunch.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Moxy Kaunas Center, and Ibis Vilnius Centre or similar.
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Guided Tours
Orientation tours and guided visits are included in Tallinn, Tartu, Valmiermuiza Brewery, Cesis Castle, and Vilnius.
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Transport
Transport between destinations is included.
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Welcome Dinner
A welcome dinner and drinks in arty Telliskivi, Tallinn.
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Valmiermuiza Brewery Tour
Tour, tasting, and lunch at Valmiermuiza Brewery in Latvia.
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Cesis Castle Tour
A guided tour around the medieval Latvian castle in Cesis.
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Trakai Island Castle Visit
Visit to the 14th century Lithuanian castle on an island in Lake Galve.
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MAKE TRAVEL MATTER EXPERIENCE®
Visit to Pirmas Blynhas cafe in Vilnius, which provides employment and empowerment for people with disabilities.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly between destinations with our organized transport, ensuring you experience the best of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania without any hassle.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Moxy Kaunas Center, and Ibis Vilnius Centre, or similar accommodations, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm throughout your Baltic adventure.
Dining Summary
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Culture
- Riga: Take an orientation around the colourful streets of the Latvian capital. We’ll show you the highlights and the best places for a night out.
Foodie
- Tallinn: Get to know your new Contiki fam over a welcome dinner and drinks in arty Telliskivi.
- Valmiermuiza: Get together with the Contiki crew for a tour, tasting and lunch at this Latvian brew-house.
- Vilnius: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER EXPERIENCE®, we'll pay a visit to Pirmas Blynhas - a cafe that provides employment and empowerment for people with disabilities.
Included Experience
- Tallinn: Get to know your new Contiki fam over a welcome dinner and drinks in arty Telliskivi.
- Valmiermuiza: Get together with the Contiki crew for a tour, tasting and lunch at this Latvian brew-house.
- Cesis: Take a jaunt around this medieval Latvian castle with an expert. And learn more about the Livonian Order that built it.
- Riga: Take an orientation around the colourful streets of the Latvian capital. We’ll show you the highlights and the best places for a night out.
- Jurgaiciai: It’s not every day you see a hill blanketed with over 200,000 wooden crosses. Don’t forget your camera for this Lithuanian landmark.
- Trakai Island Castle: This 14th century Lithuanian castle on an island in Lake Galve is so picturesque it’s almost not real. Pics or it didn’t happen!
- Vilnius: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER EXPERIENCE®, we'll pay a visit to Pirmas Blynhas - a cafe that provides employment and empowerment for people with disabilities.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect in Tallinn?
In Tallinn, you will have the opportunity to explore the city on your own, visit the Estonian Open-Air Museum, and take a walk to Toompea Hill for a chance to see the Old Town in all its splendour. Additionally, there will be an orientation tour and a local dinner of delicious local delicacies.
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What is special about the visit to Valmiermuiza Brewery?
At Valmiermuiza Brewery, you will experience an iconic tour, tasting, and lunch. You will become acquainted with the cornerstones of brewing beer, making it a unique and educational experience.
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What can I expect to see in Riga?
In Riga, you will have a free evening to explore the city, which is known for its art nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife. You can stroll through the Old Town, discover the House of the Black Heads, and enjoy the many shops and restaurants that fill the cobblestoned streets.
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What is the significance of the Hill of Crosses in Jurgaiciai?
The Hill of Crosses in Jurgaiciai is an epic pilgrimage site that boasts a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues, and effigies erected on a small hill in Northern Lithuania. It is a unique and spiritual landmark.
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What makes Trakai Castle a must-visit destination?
Trakai Castle is a 14th-century fortress built on an island on the glittering Lake Galve. Its picturesque and fairy-tale-like appearance makes it a must-visit destination, perfect for photography and historical exploration.
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What kind of experience is offered at Pirmas Blynhas in Vilnius?
At Pirmas Blynhas in Vilnius, you will participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER EXPERIENCE®, visiting a cafe that provides employment and empowerment for people with disabilities. It is an opportunity to support a meaningful cause while enjoying local cuisine.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
