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For some reason, the Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) are often overlooked by travelers planning a European trip. They may be lesser-known than their Western neighbors, but they pack a serious punch when it comes to culture, nature, and history. Think charming old towns, lush pine forests, striking architecture, and refreshing coastal breezes: this is the unique charm of a Baltic trip that rewards those who venture off the beaten path.
This 10-day Baltic trip itinerary, tested and approved by yours truly, is the perfect introduction to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, and even includes an optional detour to Helsinki, Finland!
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Day-by-Day Baltic Trip Itinerary (10 days)
The Baltics are perfectly suited for an easy and affordable 10-day adventure. This itinerary takes you through the highlights of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, blending charming capital cities, medieval towns, and beautiful natural landscapes. All connections are made by intercity buses, which are straightforward, cheap, and reliable, making this route ideal for solo travellers or those without a car. Having tested them myself, I can confirm they’re some of the most punctual, comfortable, and well-run buses I’ve ever taken!
You can do this trip in either direction, starting in Tallinn ou Vilnius, depending on your flights or preferences. In this article, I’ve chosen to begin in Vilnius, as that’s how I did the itinerary myself as a solo female traveller, and I would absolutely do it the same way again. The flow felt natural, the distances were manageable, and each country offered a unique atmosphere that built beautifully on the last.
Days 1-3: Lithuania – Start Your Baltic Trip in Vilnius
Start your Baltic trip in the capital city of Lithuania: Vilnius. This baroque-filled capital has a cozy, welcoming feel, mixing centuries-old churches with a modern creative energy. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, but full of unexpected corners and cultural layers that make it a brilliant opening chapter for your Baltic adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Vilnius + First Impressions of the Old Town
Flying into Vilnius International Airport (VNO) is one of the easiest and most common ways to start your Baltic trip, depending on where you’re coming from. It has good connections across Europe and is just 15-20 minutes from the city center. Grab a taxi or Bolt, or hop on public bus #88 (runs every 20-30 minutes) or #3G (runs every 10 minutes) for about €1. The most central bus stop is named “Aušros vartai“. Check all information about reaching Vilnius city center from Vilnius airport by public transport here.
If you’re arriving overland, Vilnius’ main bus station is right in the city center and is well connected to other cities like Warsaw and Kaunas via Lux Express or Flixbus.
After checking in to your accommodation, I recommend getting a first taste of Vilnius by wandering the UNESCO-listed Old Town, climbing Gediminas Tower for panoramic views, and enjoying your first Lithuanian meal in Pilies Street.
Day 2: Bohemian Vibes in Užupis + Vilnius City Highlights
On the first full day of your Baltic trip, start your day in the quirky Užupis district, crossing the bridge into this “independent republic” known for its playful constitution, murals, and artsy vibe. Fun details are at every corner here, making it one of my favourite neighbourhoods in whole Europe. After soaking in its creative charm, head back into the Old Town to explore architectural gems like St. Anne’s Church, Vilnius Cathedral, and the vibrant Pilies Street, one of the oldest street of the city. In the afternoon, dive into history at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, housed in the former KGB headquarters. If you still have energy, walk up to the Hill of Three Crosses for panoramic views during sunset.
👉 Check 12 amazing things to do in Vilnius if you are looking for a complete travel guide to Vilnius, Lithuania.
Day 3: Trakai Castle Day Trip + Evening Journey to Riga
Today’s main sight may not be in Vilnius itself, but is worth the detour and is a highlight of any Baltic trip. In the morning, take a short trip to Trakai, a charming lakeside town just 40 minutes from Vilnius either by bus or train. G
🚌 Buses depart frequently (around every 30-40 minutes) from Vilnius Bus Station (Sodų St. 22) and cost around 3-4€. Check Vilnius-Trakai buses timetable and prices here.
🚊 Trains leave about 7 times daily from Vilnius Railway Station (Geležinkelio St. 16), with tickets costing 3-5€; return tickets are slightly discounted, and buying one upfront avoids a €2 onboard service fee. Check Vilnius-Trakai trains timetable and prices here.
Once in Trakai, note that both the bus and train stations are a couple kilometers from the famous Trakai Castle, a red-brick fortress dramatically set on its own island in Lake Galvė. After soaking in the fairytale atmosphere and walking along the lakeshore, return to Vilnius in the afternoon. If time allows, enjoy a final stroll before boarding your inter-country bus to Riga.
🚌 One single-journey from Vilnius to Riga usually lasts around 4.5 hours and should cost between 10€ and 20€ depending on the provider. Buses leave frequently with Lux Express, Ecolines, and Flixbus offering modern coaches with Wi-Fi and entertainment. Check Vilnius-Riga Lux Express buses timetable and prices here.
Where to stay in Vilnius?
In my opinion, the best area to stay in Vilnius is around the Old Town for easy access to main sights. Whether you’re after a cozy budget stay or a stylish hotel with historic charm, Vilnius offers plenty of options in this area.
🛏️ Voir plus available accommodation in Vilnius.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in Summer 2025 for a stay during the summer. Prices are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.
Days 4-6: Latvia – Discover Riga on Your Baltic Trip
Next up in this Baltic trip itinerary is Riga, the vibrant and sophisticated capital of Lettonie. With its striking Art Nouveau buildings, buzzing food markets, and charming medieval lanes, Riga hits that perfect balance between old and new. It’s a little bigger and busier than Vilnius, with a lively café culture and riverside vibe.
Day 4: Welcome to Riga + Exploring the Historic Old Town
With a full day ahead, dive into Riga’s atmospheric Old Town (Vecrīga), a UNESCO-listed district filled with history, charm, and stunning architecture. Begin your day at Town Hall Square, home to the ornate House of the Blackheads, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Then wander over to St. Peter’s Church, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. Take time to explore the quaint cobbled streets, stop by the Three Brothers, Riga’s oldest residential buildings, and visit the Riga Cathedral, known for its enormous pipe organ.
Day 5: Art Nouveau Elegance + Market Treasures
Start your morning with a stroll through Riga’s Art Nouveau district, especially along Alberta iela et une Elizabetes iela. These streets are lined with some of the most exquisite Art Nouveau facades in Europe. Keep an eye out for intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and mythological faces staring down at you from above. You can also stop by the Art Nouveau Museum to step inside a preserved apartment from the early 1900s.
After soaking in the architectural charm, head to Riga Central Market, one of Europe’s largest and most vibrant markets. Housed in massive former zeppelin hangars, this is the place to try local cheeses, smoked fish, pickled vegetables, and sweet pastries. It’s also a great spot for budget-friendly street food and vintage finds.
In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk along the city canal in Bastejkalna Park, or visit the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deeper look into Baltic creativity. If you didn’t make it up the tower at St. Peter’s Church the day before, this is another great moment to catch a panoramic view of the city.
👉 Check 10 amazing things to do in Riga if you are looking for a complete travel guide to Riga, Latvia.
Riga is home to the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture, with over a third of the city's buildings featuring elegant and whimsical designs.
Day 6: Castles & Forests – Day Trip to Sigulda
A Baltic trip wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the amazing nature this region has to offer. While staying in Riga, I highly recommend taking a full-day trip to Sigulda, a scenic town located in Gauja National Park, often nicknamed the ‘Switzerland of Latvia’ for its hilly landscapes and lush forests.
Getting there is easy: hop on a direct train from Riga Central Station to Sigulda (approximately 1 hour, €2-3 each way), with departures every 1-2 hours.
Start your visit with Sigulda Castle (Siguldas pilsdrupas) and the nearby New Castle, then take the cable car (open seasonally) over the Gauja River for spectacular views and access to Krimulda Manor. From there, walk through forest paths or take a local bus to Turaida Castle, the region’s most iconic red-brick fortress. The surrounding Turaida Museum Reserve includes folk sculptures and panoramic viewpoints. On the way back, if time allows, stop at the Gutmanis Cave, the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia and steeped in local legends.
Return to Riga by early evening for a well-earned dinner and rest.
Where to stay in Riga?
Riga has a fantastic range of accommodation for every budget. For convenience and atmosphere, the best places to stay are in or just around the Old Town (Vecrīga).
🛏️ Voir plus available accommodation in Riga.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in Summer 2025 for a stay during the summer. Prices are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.
Days 7-10: Estonia – Tallinn, a Medieval Ending to Your Baltic Trip
Tallinn is the perfect place to wrap up your Baltic trip. With its fairy-tale Old Town, Nordic flair, and creative energy, Estonia’s capital is one of my favourite European cities. It combines centuries of history with a bold, modern identity, and it’s just as fun to get lost in medieval alleyways as it is to sip coffee in a trendy design café.
Day 7: Arriving in Tallinn + Wandering the Lower Old Town
After soaking in the charm of Riga, it’s time to continue your Baltic journey northward to Tallinn. By bus, the ride is straightforward, with plenty of departure times available.
🚌 One single-journey from Vilnius to Riga usually lasts around 4.5 hours and should cost between 10€ and 25€ depending on the provider. Buses leave frequently with Lux Express, Ecolines, and Flixbus offering modern coaches with Wi-Fi and entertainment. Check Vilnius-Riga Lux Express buses timetable and prices here.
Upon arrival in Tallinn, drop your bags and ease into the city by exploring the Lower Old Town. Head to Town Hall Square and wander the cobbled medieval streets nearby.
Tallinn’s medieval Old Town is one of the best-preserved in Europe. Some parts of its original defensive walls and towers, built in the 13th century, are still open for visitors to explore.
Day 8: From Toompea Hill to Telliskivi’s Creative Spirit
Start your day with a walk up Toompea Hill, where you’ll find the Estonian Parliament, the striking Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the best panoramic viewpoints over Tallinn’s red rooftops. The most popular ones are Kohtuotsa et une Patkuli viewing platforms, both busy but totally worth the hype! After soaking in the views, head down into the heart of the Old Town to visit landmarks like the Tallinn Town Hall, St. Catherine’s Passage, and the Town Wall towers.
In the afternoon, head to Balti Jaam Market, a vibrant hub next to the Old Town. This modern market combines a traditional Estonian food hall with trendy cafés, vintage shops, and local design stalls. Sample street food, browse for souvenirs, and experience a slice of everyday Tallinn life. For dinner, choose between one of the cozy spots in the market or head back to the Old Town for a memorable final meal. I can personally recommend Vegan Restoran V, one of my favourite restaurants in the entire world (booking recommended)!
👉 Check 10 amazing things to do in Tallinn if you are looking for a complete travel guide to Tallinn, Estonia.
Day 9: Optional Day Trip to Helsinki or Relax in Kadriorg
For the penultimate day of this Baltic trip, the choice is up to you: stay local in Tallinn, or get to a new country for the day!
- Option 1: If you prefer to stay local, spend the day at Kadriorg Palace and Park, or explore more of Tallinn’s coastal paths and cafés. It’s a perfect slow travel option to enjoy the final days of your Baltic trip without rushing.
- Option 2: Catch an early ferry for a day trip to Helsinki, where you can explore Market Square, Helsinki Cathedral, and the unique Rock Church before returning to Tallinn by evening.
🛳️ Tallinn and Helsinki are just 80 km apart across the Gulf of Finland, making it easy to travel between the two cities by ferry. Several companies operate daily sailings, including Tallink Silja Line, Eckerö Line, and Viking Line. The journey typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, and ferries run multiple times per day, starting early in the morning and continuing into the evening.
👉 Check 10 amazing things to do in Helsinki if you are looking for a complete travel guide to Helsinki, Finland.
Day 10: Last Morning in Tallinn + Departure
Spend the last morning of your Baltic trip enjoying a relaxed breakfast, grabbing any final souvenirs, or taking one last stroll through the cobbled streets of Tallinn’s Old Town. When ready, head to Tallinn Airport or the bus station for your departure. And that’s a wrap on your Baltic trip!
Where to stay in Tallinn?
Accommodation-wise, Tallinn has everything, from budget hostels to charming historic stays, making it easy to find a base that matches your style and budget. The best areas to stay are Old Town, for postcard-worthy cobbled streets and easy access to landmarks, and Kalamaja, a hipster-friendly district full of cafes and street art just a short walk away.
🛏️ Voir plus available accommodation in Tallinn.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in Summer 2025 for a stay during the summer. Prices are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.
Budget for this Baltic trip
Baltic countries are rather budget-friendly, especially Lithuania and Latvia. If you follow the 10 day Baltic trip itinerary, here is a sum-up of your main expenses:
- Transportation: ~60€ (intercity buses + return trip to Trakai + return trip to Sigulda)
- Accommodation: 20-30€ per night in a hostel during summer (cheaper during low season); 60€ and onwards per night in a hotel or a private apartment
- Attractions: 35€ (KGB museum in Vilnius + Trakai castle + House of the Blackheads in Riga + Sigulda cable car + Tallinn Old walls)
- Helsinki day trip (option): 40-80€ (return ferry trip)
I hope this 10 days Baltic trip itinerary to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia (± Finland!) has been helpful and informative!
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