Private tour in Riga Emils D

Hill of Crosses and Rundāle Palace Full-Day Tour from Riga

5.0

(5) reviews

-
Hours icon 8 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Emils D.

5.0

Guide rating

31

Reviews

Tours delivered

16 hrs

Avg. response time

Fun, passionate, and genuine - that’s me, your local guide Emīls! I’m originally from a small Latvian town and have lived in Riga since 2014. I love storytelling, showing my favorite hidden spots in Riga and across Latvia, and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. If you’re looking for a joyful and authentic experience, I’d be happy to be your guide. My hope is that you’ll leave not only with photos, but with a little piece of Latvia in your heart.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Emils D.

Overview of your Riga tour

The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania is one of the Baltic region’s most powerful and symbolic places - a unique pilgrimage site covered with thousands of crosses, reflecting centuries of faith, resilience, and history. Rundāle Palace, often called the Versailles of the North, is a magnificent 18th-century Baroque palace located in rural Latvia, near my hometown of Bauska. On this full-day private tour from Riga, I’ll personally drive you to the Hill of Crosses, then continue to Rundāle Palace and my hometown. Along the way, I’ll share historical context as well as personal stories - including insights into the palace restoration work, as my mother once worked there as a restorer. To complete the experience, I’ll also introduce you to local food and drink spots in Bauska, places loved by locals and rarely found by visitors.

Recent Reviews

Caryl G.United States
July 2026

We did not have enough time for the Hill of Crosses but visited the spectacular Rundale Palace and its gardens. If you have time do not miss this palace tour! We also had a little time to visit old town Riga. A beautiful city with lots to offer. We also had a quick lunch of meatball soup that was very good! Emils is a fantastic guide with lots of knowledge and information. We highly recommend Emils and will tour with him again when we return to Riga.

John G.United Kingdom
April 2026

This excursion was a highlight of our time in the Baltics. It was great to spend the day outside of the city, particularly given Emils unique knowledge of the area. Rundale Palace was even more impressive than I expected, with fantastic history and architecture. Emils also shared a lot of helpful information on Riga, that we were able to put to use when we were back in town. I would definitely recommend trying to arrange a tour with him.

Daniel L.Canada
August 2025

We booked two full-day tours with Emils, and this was the first one. We had the opportunity to visit the palace in Rundāle in the morning. We had dinner at a nice restaurant in Bauska, and left for the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. On our way back, we had a quick stop at the Jelgava Palace. Everything in this tour was great. But what made it more memorable is our tour guide. Emils was very knowledgeable, very flexible, caring, and super friendly while very professional. We felt like friends or family members the whole time, and that made our tour way more pleasant and enjoyable. We recommend this tour, and we highly recommend Emils as a tour guide. No matter the tour you pick, Emils will deliver and make your day enjoyable!

Cameron W.United States
October 2024

What can I say about the tour with Emils? Simply put, if you are considering a tour of Riga, look no further. Emils was an incredible guide, with obvious passion for Latvia, Riga, and the Baltics, seamlessly weaving culture, history, and art into the tour. He was punctual, easy going, and accommodating. He handled all of the details and logistics, allowing me to relax and enjoy a wonderful trip and tour. Do yourself a favor and book a tour with Emils!!

Alex R.United States
July 2024

Emils was an amazing tour guide! He was knowledgeable, energetic, accommodating, flexible, professional and able to personalize tour program to fit large group needs. He provided good suggestions for dining experience and even allowed an opportunity to experience Latvian hospitality. We would definitely recommend him for tours in Riga and outskirts.

Your Riga tour itinerary

The itinerary can be customized to match your interests and pace. For groups larger than four guests, please contact me in advance - I’m happy to arrange a larger vehicle and provide a customized quote. Planned stops include: - Hill of Crosses in Lithuania - Lunch stop in my hometown of Bauska (weather permitting, we may also visit my family garden to enjoy fresh seasonal berries and local treats) - Visit to Rundāle Palace and its French garden - Comfortable drive back to Riga

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Sedan

We’ll travel in my car, suitable for up to 4 guests. If you’re traveling with a larger group or would like extra comfort, just let me know in advance - I’ll be happy to arrange a bigger vehicle and share the details with you.

What's included
Private Transportation
Private Guide
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Admission fees for Rundāle Palace, as well as any other optional landmarks visited during the tour.
Private Transportation With Driver
Meeting location

Riga, Latvia

At your hotel, cruise port, or another convenient location in central Riga — to be confirmed after booking.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
History
Day Trip
City Highlights
Tour reference number
1173786
Languages
English
Norwegian
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Riga best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to explore significant cultural and historical sites like the Hill of Crosses and Rundāle Palace with a personal touch. It's ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and local culture, as well as anyone looking to connect with a local guide for deeper insights. Families with kids will find it suitable due to its light activity level.

Can this private tour in Riga be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 8 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours 30 minutes
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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