From CAD 3,230
Guarantee
Group Tour
Unknown
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Centuries-old castles, Cold War history, fascinating cities and wild landscapes. The Baltics are packed with intrigue and beauty – ideal for a cultural adventure. On this small-group trip, we explore the very best spots in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, visiting all three capitals, historic old towns and the once-secret Soviet missile base in Plokstine forest. We enjoy the natural beauty too, spending plenty of time in the scenic national parks and coastal hotspots. It’s the perfect balance of cultural and natural wonders and a fascinating introduction to the Baltics.
This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.
Profile
— Travel by bus and ferry — Optional day walks and city walking tours — Group normally 5 to 20 plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Accommodation: 11 Classic nights (hotels) — Citizen Science departures available on this trip
At a Glance
— Travel by bus and ferry — Optional day walks and city walking tours — Group normally 5 to 20 plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Accommodation: 11 Classic nights (hotels) — Citizen Science departures available on this trip
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It has quite a busy itinerary based around sightseeing in the Baltic states. There is a fair amount of walking around towns, cities and parks, but all on good paths, mainly wooden boarded and sometimes cobbled streets in the old towns. The walks are suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness; you will just need a good pair of sports shoes to be comfortable. To visit all the highlights of the three countries, there are some long bus journeys.
Renovations: Trakai Castle is currently undergoing renovation work, which may mean you see some scaffolding on the outside of the building.
Group Description
Normally four to 20, plus local leader and driver.
Eating Drinking
There will be buffet breakfasts in the hotels offering plenty of choice including cold meats, cheese, eggs, bread, jams, juice and coffee.
Lunches will be a mixture of picnics bought from local shops and cafe stops.
Dinners will be taken in the hotel restaurants or in local restaurants and will be hearty meals. Cuisine in this area is often centred around pork, veal, fish, potatoes, sauerkraut, and soups such as borsch (beetroot soup – in Lithuania this is also served cold). Dumplings are also popular and in Trakai, large and delicious baked dumplings called kibinai are traditionally served.
Transportation
Travel will be by private bus and scheduled boat services. The journey times vary and there are some longer distances to cover (up to 211mi/340km), which will mean several hours on the bus. However, we feel this is essential to cover the highlights of the three countries.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: GO Shnelli, Toompuiestee 37, 10133 Tallinn
Phone: +372 631 0100
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Tallinn Airport (TLL)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 25-minute drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can book a private transfer, which costs approximately €37 (payable before departure), with your sales representative. Please ensure you provide us with all relevant information at least two weeks before departure. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Vilnius Airport (VNO) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
The climate is largely influenced by the Baltic Sea. The summers see temperatures from 20C to 30C (68F to 86F). In the evenings, the temperatures will not drop too much. There is little rain in the summer but, of course, it is always a possibility, so come prepared. The days will be long, with 19 hours of daylight. In spring and autumn, there is the possibility of light rain and temperatures can be cool. Estonia is the furthest north we travel and therefore the coldest, although the temperature range described applies. Lithuania is the furthest south, which makes it the warmest country of the three. Estonia is often described as the more Scandinavian country than the other two.
Spending Money
Lunch costs vary depending on the venue. If you buy lunch at a local shop, €10-12 will be enough, but if we stop at a cafe you are likely to spend closer to €15. Dinner will usually be about €23-€35. A beer will cost around €5-€8 and a bottle of wine €20-€35. Budget around €30-40 per day for meals. Entrance fees to sites will be between €6 and €17.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. Tipping is at your discretion, but many clients wish to tip their leaders and driver at the end of the trip. We suggest 2€ per day for the driver and €4 per day for the guide. Most groups prefer to present the money to the leader at the end of the week with two separate envelopes (one for the leader and one for the driver). This is completely at your own discretion and to be used as a guideline only.
If you wish to tip hotel staff and local guides, we have found it useful for the group to have a tipping kitty. Your leader can advise you on the amount, but as a guide expect it to be €20 per person for the week.
Highlights
— Experience the best of the Baltics: ancient castles, Cold War history and wild landscapes — Unwrap the history and culture of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania with the help of our expert tour leader — Explore the pine forests, waterfalls and sandy beaches of Lahemaa National Park — Visit the Plokstine Cold War Museum in a once-secret Soviet Union missile base — Discover the Hill of Crosses, a unique and mysterious pilgrimage site — Marvel at the magical fairytale island castle of Trakai
Trip Details
Product Code: 4341
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: ountries.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: AVV
Starts: Tallinn, Estonia
Finishes: Tallinn, Estonia
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts — All accommodation (see below) — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Free group arrival and departure transfers availableAccommodation
A selection of three-star hotelsOn this trip, we stay in three-star hotels, ideally located for access to the key sites. Below are the properties we typically use. Tallinn: Go Shnelli Hotel (nights 1-2) We begin our adventure by staying near to the medieval old town of Tallinn and Balti Jaam Market. When you’re not out exploring, the first-floor hotel restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows with views over both and serves breakfast plus an à la carte dinner menu. Tartu: Hotel Tartu (night 3) In the city centre, Hotel Tartu is within walking distance of the old town and the Vanemuine Theatre (the oldest theatre in Estonia). It also has a 70-seat cafe on the ground floor plus a sauna centre (additional cost) with Finnish and steam saunas. If you plan on using the sauna centre, you need to bring flip flops (or purchase them from the hotel for €3). Riga: Islande Hotel (nights 4-6) Near the Daugava River, the Islande has a magnificent panoramic view of Riga Old Town. It’s located in a green area of Ķīpsala island, a 12-minute walk from the Old City, and offers a wide range of amenities, including a bowling alley, sauna, gym, two restaurants and a summer terrace. Klaipeda: Old Mill Hotel or Memel Hotel (nights 7-8) In the port city of Klaipeda, we stay at either the Old Mill Hotel or Memel Hotel(above), which are both ideally located for our ferry ride to the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit. The former was once the biggest rice mill in Lithuania, before being converted into a 32-room hotel in 2008. The latter takes over a property built in 1876, and offers 50 comfortable rooms. Kaunas: Best Western Santaka Hotel (night 9) Our night in Kaunas is spent in the 92-room Santaka Hotel. It’s located between the city centre and old town and, if you have time, there’s a sauna to enjoy. Vilnius: Comfort Hotel LT – Rock’n’Roll Vilnius (nights 10-11) With an industrial style and music theme, our Vilnius hotel has plenty of personality. The 80 rooms are all air conditioned with underfloor heating in the bathroom, plus the Mellow restaurant serves a menu packed with local produce. Other nice additions are a free-to-use gym and a lobby shop selling beers, snacks, sandwiches and more. Worth knowing If you opt for the single supplement, please note that in some hotels, this may mean having a room with a single bed.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3230 (CAD 269 /day)
Itinerary
The tour starts at our hotel in the capital of Estonia, Tallinn. There’s a welcome briefing with our leader in the evening and free time to explore the city after. There will also be an optional welcome group meal, a great chance to get to know the group. Of course, if you'd prefer a little time to settle into the adventure, you can speak to us about booking pre-tour nights in Tallinn. Accommodation: Go Shnelli Hotel (or similar)
Today we explore vibrant Tallinn, the largest city in Estonia. The Old Town, framed by ancient city walls, is full of architectural wonders. In the morning, we have a guided tour of the city taking in some of the main attractions, including the Toompea palace and castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Dome Church and St Nicholas church. We then have a free afternoon to explore the picturesque Old Town, which happily lacks an invasion of modern architecture. Dive into the past as you explore cobblestone alleys with spluttering torches and secret stairways; the old town holds new surprises around every corner, even for residents. We overnight in Tallinn old town. Accommodation: Go Shnelli Hotel (or similar)
In the morning, we leave Tallinn and journey to Tartu, stopping at Lahemaa, the largest national park in Estonia. It’s a popular tourist destination with sandy beaches, waterfalls and mossy pine forests; it also has a variety of cultural sites, including Palmse Manor and the 400-year-old fisherman’s village of Altja. After lunch, we transfer to Tartu for a guided tour. Tartu, the capital of southern Estonia, is the second-largest town in the country, with lots of local culture, including festivals, concerts and theatre exhibitions. We spend the night in a hotel in the centre of Tartu. Accommodation: Hotel Tartu (or similar)
Historic Cesis, on the Gauja River valley, is now a celebrated art-and-culture hub. However, it’s also home to one of the finest old towns in Latvia, where red-roofed buildings with restored facades line cobbled streets. The star attraction here is undoubtedly the Medieval castle, a partly preserved fortification knocked down and rebuilt in various forms. There will be option to visit the museum in the morning. We then transfer to Gauja National Park, a region known as Latvian Switzerland. After, we transfer to Riga. Accommodation: Islande Hotel (or similar)
This morning, the magnificent old town of Riga awaits. We will have a guided city tour taking in winding alleys, elegant boulevards and 800 renovated art nouveau buildings. We then have a free afternoon to soak up the romantic atmosphere of the city and enjoy a relaxing lunch before exploring some of the great shops. Accommodation: Islande Hotel (or similar)
In the morning, we transfer to Jurmala, the largest seaside and spa resort in the Baltic states and known for its unique natural resources, including healing mineral waters, pine forests and dunes. The town is also home to unique wooden art nouveau architecture. After exploring the town, we will transfer back to Riga for the night. If you wish to stay a little longer, a train back to Riga costs €2-€4 per person. Accommodation: Islande Hotel (or similar)
Firstly, we visit the 18th-century Rundale Palace, which was designed for the Duke of Courland by Italian architect Rastrelli, who also designed the winter palace in St Petersburg. Today, the palace is the most magnificent piece of architecture in the Baltic states, surrounded by impressive gardens. We then cross the border to Lithuania and have time to explore the Hill of Crosses before transferring to Klaipeda Port for a short tour around the small old town taking in reconstructed merchant houses and the remains of Klaipeda Castle. Accommodation: Old Mill Hotel or Memel Hotel (or similar)
We start the day with a short ferry ride across the lagoon to the Curonian Spit, a Unesco World Heritage site between the Curonian Lagoon and Baltic Sea. Here, we have the day to explore the largest drifting dunes in Europe. We will also visit the Hill of Witches and the Lithuanian sea resort of Nida to climb the Great Dune for the views. We transfer back to Klaipeda where we spend the night. Accommodation: Old Mill Hotel or Memel Hotel (or similar)
We transfer to the Plokstine forest and visit the Cold War Museum, which is housed in a once-secret Soviet Union missile base. We can view the internal control facility, see decommissioned missiles, and learn more about the five-decade-long period. We then travel to the town of Kaunas, and take a walking tour of the beautiful old town, which includes the 13th-century castle, old town hall, Cathedral Basilica and Church of St Francis Xavier. We stay overnight in Kaunas. Accommodation: Best Western Santaka Hotel (or similar)
We stop in Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Here we will go on a tour around the incredible 14th-century castle, which occupies a small island in the middle of the lake. We then transfer to Vilnius where we stay the night. Accommodation: Comfort Hotel LT - Rock'n'Roll Vilnius (or similar)
We have the whole day to explore Vilnius. There is a guided city tour in the morning and then plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The city was developed around its Town Hall and there is a great deal of diverse architecture to see. There are many narrow streets that lead to intimate courtyards, plus the larger landmarks of the castle complex, cathedral square and Royal Palace. There are also plenty of museums to dip into. We overnight in Vilnius. Accommodation: Comfort Hotel LT - Rock'n'Roll Vilnius (or similar)
The tour ends after breakfast in Vilnius. Begin your return trip home or, if you’d like a bit more time to explore this fascinating city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Bridget Moore - Traveled, May 2023
Discover the Baltics - does what it says in the brochure Finally got to do this trip which was on my bucket list before the pandemic. It was certainly worth the wait and lived up to all my expectations. This is one of the best Exodus trips I have travelled on. I find ex-Soviet countries fascinating and we certainly got a good introduction to the histories of all 3 countries together with an insight into their views about the current situation. This was due to the generous ways in which both our guide Andrius and the local guides were prepared to share some of their experiences from less liberal times. It was all very thought provoking and led to some thoughtful discussion between fellow travellers. But on a lighter note – the itinerary was more varied than I was expecting. We saw capital cities, medieval streets, Art Nouveau architecture, crumbling and restored castles, fishermen’s wooden cottages, Soviet elite holiday homes, a palace built in the time of the Tsars , a decommissioned nuclear bunker, museums, art galleries and some ex-KGB “facilities”. Trips into the countryside were also included, we visited the sea in all 3 countries, some fantastic national parks and drove through wonderful forests. Even the weather was on our side – I could be forgiven for thinking the Baltics are countries where the spring sun creates beautiful dappled patterns whilst glinting through the fresh green forest foliage. It only rains when you are in the bus between destinations! However, there was also a heatwave in Southern Europe, so future travellers should not take too much notice of this comment. Most Inspirational Moment The beach at Altja in Lahemaa National Park - so peaceful and such beautiful colours. Maybe not inspirational, but certainly memorable Plokstine Cold War Museum and the KGB museum in Vilnius. Thoughts on Group Leader We were so lucky to have Andrius as our group leader. He was well organised, efficient, enthusiastic, but also empathetic, sensitive and with a very sharp wit and good sense of humour. It can't be easy to share life experiences which have the potential to be uncomfortable, but Andrius was willing to do so, and I for one, feel that I have come home with a much greater understanding of some events which happened during my lifetime and I am now better placed to share this with my own children. Andrius was also very good at spotting a suitable restaurant for some sociable group meals. Advice for Potential Travellers Book this trip - you won't regret it. Don't worry about getting bogged down on the sand dunes on the Curonian Spit (I was) - the footpath is a boardwalk to prevent visitors from causing erosion by walking all over the fragile dunes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/12/2023
Sharon Toop - Traveled, April 2023
Three fascinating - and very different - countries in just 12 days! This tour was so much more interesting than I’d expected it to be. Admittedly I knew virtually nothing about the histories of the three countries – other than the fact that they’d all been under Soviet rule – but I hadn’t expected them to be *so* different in terms of their culture, food, architecture, …. I loved the three capital cities – Tallinn’s old town, Riga’s architecture (especially its Art Nouveau buildings) and Vilnius’s university buildings – and also Tartu, Kaunas, Cesis, Jurmala and Klaipeda. I also loved the dunes of the Curonian Spit and walking the Hill of Witches. The Plokstine Cold War Museum visit was chilling (even though I can remember some of the events documented there) and I found visiting the occupation/KGB museums in Tallinn, Riga and especially Vilnius harrowing. Luckily there were much lighter times too: Rundale Palace (where we had a very amusing guide), the beautiful Pazaislis Monastery, the boat trip and walk around Trakai Castle, the amazing sculpture park and reconstruction of Turaida Castle (where I amazed myself by climbing the tower!), the concert in Riga Cathedral, …. So many happy memories of this trip! Most Inspirational Moment I think it probably has to be realising that these three countries, which have been through so much in the recent past, are now enjoying their independence as members of the EU and can fully celebrate their individual national identities. On a personal level, for me it was realising that I *can* do things I didn’t think I could do any more, such as iclimbing to the top of the Turaida Castle tower!! Thoughts on Group Leader We couldn’t have wished for a better group leader than Andrius! He looked after us all so well and found brilliant places for us to eat lunch & dinner. He was great fun to be with (and was also quick to learn which beers I’d like best!!). Nothing seemed to faze him. Advice for Potential Travellers Go and discover the Baltic States for yourself - you won’t be disappointed!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2023
Felicity Eagles - Traveled, August 2022
3 beautiful countries to discover I have just come back from a wonderful tour exploring these beautiful 3 countries. It was nice and relaxed with reasonable start times each day but still felt you utilised each day to explore. There was a good range of sights to see and you didn’t feel rushed at any. I came back feeling as though i had a really good insight into these beautiful countries. I felt safe as a lone female in all areas and saw no adverse affects due to the current situation in Russia/Ukraine. Our tour guide Simona was excellent & really went above & beyond what was expected, her knowledge throughout was phenomenal. The hotels were small & standard but brilliant locations. Breakfasts standards varied slightly in each but all had a very basic version of continental, a few you couldn’t get black/english tea in at all. The rooms in most were very small and i would say 100% not suitable as a room share option. Some beds there was no space or had fixed furniture so could not be separated into 2 singles. Disappointing when booking regional flights through Exodus you no longer get included transfers. Not worth the price or wait to pay exodus for them. I got 1 bus directly outside airport to a 1 min walk from hotel (you could see hotel from main bus station ) for €1.50, easy to get as stay on until last stop which was main station. My return flight i had to be at airport early hours so i got a bolt (local taxi) for €5.60 Overall this was a really lovely tour and i’m happy i’ve visited the 3 main Baltic countrys. Most Inspirational Moment Tallin was my favourite. Such a beautiful old town and really easy to get around Thoughts on Group Leader Simona was amazing. Extremely knowledgeable. Very friendly so felt like one if the group. Always went above & beyond to ensure things ran smoothly & we were enjoying ourselves. Advice for Potential Travellers Don’t room share. Bring tea & milk powder if you like a traditional cup of tea in your room or at breakfast (milk always provided at breakfasts but not in rooms) Don’t bother paying the extras for transfers on this trip Suggestions Thank you for another great holiday
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2022
Brian O'Donnell - Traveled, July 2022
A Cultural Extravaganza There is so much to see and experience on this trip. From the ancient historic castles and Old Towns, to the more recent era of Soviet and German Occupations, and finally to current times when we see modern vibrant cities and towns looking to the future with their own culture and traditions intact. There is a bit of everything in this trip – ancient and modern architecture, beaches, boat rides, museums, countryside, and great local cuisine. Most Inspirational Moment The Plokstine Cold War Bunker Thoughts on Group Leader An excellent enthusiastic leader who was able to impart knowledge at all times. Advice for Potential Travellers Visit the Maritime Museum in Tallinn, and take in one of the KGB museums in any of the cities. Also, the Museum of Occupation in Riga is excellent. A boat ride in Nida when visiting the Curonian Spit will take you within touching distance of the Russian border!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/11/2022
Stephen Kolek - Traveled, May 2022
Baltic extravaganza 3countries I never thought I would get to visit, but so glad I did. With our great guide Andrius and some witty, funny, knowledgable local guides , not only did I visit these countries but understood the history of the Baltic countries , their independence yet ease of interaction. The trip was full of surprises- a phone box turned into a church in Tallin, walking around the lovely university town of Tartu, paddling in the icy cold Baltic Sea in Jurmala, visiting an opulent Baroque palace, walking the sand Dunes at Nida, visiting an old soviet missile site was interesting and frightening at the same time particularly in May 22.Riga with the zeppelin hangar market places,baroque buildings -The hill of crosses, the wood carving at Nida-so many interesting things to see. Andrius with his great sense of humour looked after us all, chose fantastic eating places and kept us amused on the bus with interesting stories and jokes. A throughly enjoyable holiday and well managed-Go for it yourself Most Inspirational Moment The hill of crosses Thoughts on Group Leader Great, well organised, caring for those who were not as able, knowledgable, approachable, arranged great places for meals/so varied Advice for Potential Travellers Yes, go for it So much to see and enjoy
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2022
Mark Jordan - Traveled, April 2022
Recommended trip to the Baltics 1st post pandemic trip, originally booked for 2020. A fantastic trip to get back travelling again. Great balance of scenery, history, culture and fun. The itinerary is well planned snd we benefited from an experienced tour leader who really did ‘make’ this trip so fantastic. He worked around us, the places, and worked hill time making sure we all got what we wanted. No early starts for one?? The special feature of these locations is their history of being ‘in the middle’ for centuries. Most recently the transition from Soviet rule to European independence. The signs of both are very evident. The icing on the cake got this trip was the tour leader Andrius being born and raised under the Soviets and now benefiting from the new freedoms. His experiences were very good to hear snd learn from Most Inspirational Moment Learning from Andrius 1st hand the journeys made by these countries from Soviet to post Soviet existence Thoughts on Group Leader Wonderful. Really made the trip work so well for all of us. Very easy to get on with and approach. Great sense of humour snd very knowledgeable. Would recommend any trip he leads. Advice for Potential Travellers I wasn’t sure about the temperature/weather and what to take. May in the Baltics had it chilly moments, so a good coat, gloves and hat aren’t wasted??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/14/2022
Channa Saman - Traveled, May 2022
living history For the well season wanderer, a trip to Baltics is a time traveller’s delight. From visiting medieval town (Tallin), 18th century chateau (Rundale), wonderful art nouveau buildings (Riga), dour grey soviet era (nuclear missile site) to an optimistic future (Vilnius). Our wonderful historian on this trip, Andrius, knew pre and post soviet rule and was very clear which path for the Baltic states he would choose Most Inspirational Moment Art Nouveau buildings , and nuclear missle site Thoughts on Group Leader Andrius - was brillant, paitence, flexible and informative Advice for Potential Travellers Wrap up warm - cold even in May and wet
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2022
KARL MUELLER - Traveled, May 2022
Good view of former Soviet states Group leader (Andrius) was perhaps the best part of the trip. He was born under Soviet rule and just as he entered university the Soviet Union dissolved and his country declared independence. His insights and knowledge of history and society were a real treat. Thoughts on Group Leader See above. Andrius was skilled at meeting the special needs of some travelers without inconveniencing the group. We had a schedule that was very flexible. Summary - he was great! Advice for Potential Travellers Read the trip notes and check up on the weather to be expected. Northern Europe can still be cold and blustery in mid May. There is quite a bit of walking on this trip - 3 to 5 hours on most days. Early spring has lots of flowers and '50 shades of green' spread over the fields and forests.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2022
Karl & Marion Mueller - Traveled, April 2022
Wonderful view of former Soviet states Our trip leader (Andrius) was perhaps the best part of the trip. He grew up under Soviet rule and went to university just as Lithuania gained independence. His insights and experiences plus knowledge of history and culture were a wonderful gift. He was always looking out for the group while attending to any special needs. Local guides were generally very good. This was our first trip with Exodus. The trip was well paced with considerable walking. We had good hotels and restaurants. Weather was often cold and windy with some rain as one would expect for mid May in northern Europe. Spring was just arriving in Estonia and a month farther along by the time we got to Lithuania. Lots of flowers and 50 shades of green from the trees to the fields.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/06/2022
Rebecca Lynch - Traveled, April 2022
MsTripsy This was my first package tour and I’ll admit the Baltics weren’t my first choice – but I’m glad we took the leap! For anyone interested in history, this is a rich tour with lots of highlights. From a stop at a nuclear missile launch site, to an excellent seaside cafe that smokes fish on the premesis – every day was packed with interesting and surprising things that you’d never get to see otherwise. There’s a fair bit of coach travel, unavoidable when you are doing three countries. And it’s cold even in mid-May! Despite this, our spirits were kept high by our guide Andrius, who was utterly charming and patient throughout – ensuring we all got the most out of every moment, and entertaining us with many personal stories of Soviet times. Most Inspirational Moment I really enjoyed Tallin. And later, exploring a medieval castle with an actual torch! Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent! He made the trip for us. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack more warmly than I did and bring a raincoat.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2022
Caroline Kolek - Traveled, April 2022
Brilliant Trip A fabulous trip through three countries. A good mix of city tours, castles, palaces and natural spaces. Our tour leader, Andreas was very knowledgeable with a good sense of humour. He ensured good restaurants serving local cuisine were selected for those that wanted the group meal each night. He phoned ahead to inform restaurants of any dietary requirements. A really great guy. Our local guides for the city tours and places of interest were all real characters – very knowledgeable and approachable. All in all a fabulous trip, well planned and well lead! Most Inspirational Moment The national parks. Thoughts on Group Leader A brilliant tour leader. Knowledgeable, approachable with a great sense of humour. Nothing was too much and he clearly cared about the well-being of our group. Advice for Potential Travellers Take gloves and good footwear for city walking. Suggestions Fabulous adventure - could do it all again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/13/2022
Jacqueline COX - Traveled, May 2024
Review of Discover the Baltics A busy but fascinating tour through three beautiful countries, providing a varied insight into the culture and history of the region. Most Inspirational Moment Appreciating the value of democracy and freedom after visiting the underground soviet missile base in Lithuania. Thoughts on Group Leader Vilija was a great tour leader. She was very knowledgeable and told us many interesting things about the culture and history of the Baltics, made all the more poignant by her personal experience growing up in Lithuania during Soviet occupation. Vilija was very patient and took time to make sure all members of the group were enjoying themselves and their needs were met. She had a great sense of humour too. A lovely person. Advice for Potential Travellers Bring lots of layers so you can dress for all weathers; we had a cold snap and snow, followed by 18 degree sunshine a few days later.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2024
Sue Holmes - Traveled, August 2018
3 stunning countries A truly wonderful tour with a lovely group of like minded people led by an amazing guide. Most Inspirational Moment I especially loved the old town of Tallinn which was absolutely beautiful. Also Trakai Castle which was in the middle of a large lake near Vilnius. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader Vaida was wonderful, she was informative and also very kind when I required stitches in my finger. Our driver was also great; it isn't often that one is driven to A&E in a huge coach. Advice for Potential Travellers Just go and enjoy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Liz Mulgrew - Traveled, July 2019
Excellent overview across these three countries This is an excellent trip overall with a few caveats along the way. It is certainly a great way to see the highlights of all three Baltic states, both in terms of the three capitals but also other highlights and interesting places. You will learn a huge amount about the history and culture! You will also do a lot of walking… Most Inspirational Moment My husband and I liked the day exploring the Curonian Spit the best, just because it is a beautiful place with quite a lot of different things to see and do - the freshly smoked fish lunch was a brilliant experience (if slightly not for the faint hearted!). Rundale Palace was amazing (largely because of our brilliant local guide there) and we also really enjoyed the Hill of Crosses, which for us was unexpectedly moving in a curious way. All three capitals were good, but we both liked Tallinn the best; however the Art Nouveau architecture in Riga was also a highlight of the trip. The Cold War Museum in Plokstine, which was in fact the main reason for us choosing this particular trip rather than one by another company, was also well worth visiting. Thoughts on Group Leader Lukas was so so good - utterly dedicated at all times and also determined that we should learn as much as possible about every place that we visited. He was very conscientious and precise about timings! He was also very patient and prepared to answer our questions about life in Soviet times and kindly told us about his family's history. When one of our cases, and also one of another couple's in the group, were delayed, he was very helpful about helping us to keep in the loop about their whereabouts and delivery. Advice for Potential Travellers This trip is advertised as grade 1 (leisurely) but apart from the 9am starts on most days it isn't! One of our group had a fitbit and we walked typically 17,000-18,000 steps per day, including on the days which were "travelling" ones. This is mostly on often uneven cobbled streets and sometimes up/down lots of stairs in castles etc! Weather - we went in July/August and had several days with torrential rain, luckily often in the evening or when travelling. But you really needed to have both a good waterproof and an umbrella to stand any chance of staying dry, and ideally bring two pairs of waterproof shoes if you can as well. I would say that the weather is very like Scotland... You definitely need to bring insect repellent and bite cream; pretty much all of group were thoroughly bitten at various points in the trip (some through tucked in socks in long trousers!). The two hotels in Estonia catered well for both gluten and lactose free diets; the other hotels had rice cakes as the gluten free option and no lactose free alternatives. Vegetarians will be reasonably fine in restaurants as long as they are happy to eat lots of dairy, especially cheese (although still limited choice), but vegans will really struggle. Bring snacks if in any doubt! Suggestions If Exodus book group flights through Schipol (Amsterdam) airport, try to get them to do an alternative route if at all possible and if not make sure that you have a minimum of 2 hours' transfer time. We had one hour allocated on our outward journey and only made it because our first flight landed early and the second one took off late, and even then it was a close thing. Both us and the other couple on the "official" group flight had one of our suitcases delayed between Schipol and Tallinn - the lady at Tallinn airport told us that this is basically a daily occurrence for flights with Amsterdam transfers. They had a good system in place with couriers, and we got our bags the next afternoon, but it was still 24 hours of worry. Two others in the group asked for alternative flights and were given a transfer at Helsinki instead; not only were both their journeys at better times of the day but their whole transfer process was much easier and more pleasant (and no bags were delayed!).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
Jeffery James Piper - Traveled, July 2023
Discovering the Baltics A very interesting trip that gave a good overview of the three Baltic States and didn’t just concentrate on the three capital cities. Most Inspirational Moment Visiting the Soviet era nuclear missile base in Lithuania Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader Andrius Mazrimas was an excellent guide who took great care in ensuring that everyone felt comfortable and dealt with any issues as they arose. He ensured a good balance between the guided tours and the free time, and didn't overschedule - which made the trip into an enjoyable holiday. He also added a nice personal touch to ensure that we got a good flavour of the countries that we visited
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Hayley Mooney - Traveled, July 2023
Fantastic Baltics This was a fantastic trip! Each of the countries are unique and there is something to love about all of them. The trip itinerary is really well planned, and there is so much free time in the capitals that you can really feel comfortable just wandering around. I was lucky to be in a group with a really lovely and enthusiastic bunch of people, as well as all the memories, I even came home with a newfound enjoyment of castles. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many. Vilnius nightlife is intense. The former nuclear missile site was fascinating. The Curonian Spit is beautiful. Jurmala real estate makes me want to win the lottery. The Riga medical museum is a must for healthcare geeks like me, although the two-headed dog is something that sticks with you. My favourite stop on the trip was Kaunas, and to be honest I can’t even explain why, it’s just a charming little city. Thoughts on Group Leader Andrius was brilliant. He is so laid back but still managed to run a tight-ship. He was really open and honest about his experiences growing up during Soviet times, and how things changed as Lithuania became independent. Andrius also has a fantastic sense of humour and quick wit, and a lot of the time it felt like we were just hanging out with him. The local guides were all great as well, and the two drivers were both really good and I felt safe at all times. Advice for Potential Travellers A lot of museums are closed on Mondays, so if you’re going to be in one of the capitals on a weekend into Monday it’s worth doing some research to prioritise what you want to visit. Unless you’re really into cabbage vegetarians might struggle. Don’t forget your insect repellent for the national parks, and invest in a good pac-a-Mac. Suggestions Book this trip. Don’t drink the Black Balsam.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
James Chamberlain - Traveled, July 2023
Great first exodus experience This was my first experience using Exodus and I’m sure it won’t be my last. I had. A great time with a really wonderful group of people. Our guide, Andrius, was great with lots of great local knowledge and facts he was able to share. Most Inspirational Moment I really enjoyed the day on the Curonian Spit
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
Julia Larsson - Traveled, July 2023
Fascinating Baltics An excellent, busy trip with sufficient free time to explore on our own and lots of variety between cities and countryside/seaside. I finally made it as I had booked this trip when Covid intervened and it had to be cancelled. I am so glad that I was now able to go. Most Inspirational Moment Hard to select just one. Tallin was my favourite city, the Art Nouveau district and museum in Riga, the Occupation Museum in Riga was a real 'eye opener' and the Hill of Crosses was amazing and moving. Also being able to go to the Lahemaa National Park, the Curonian Spit and Jurmala for the architecture. As I said before, good variety in this trip between cities and countryside/seaside. Thoughts on Group Leader Andrius Mazrimas was excellent. Well organised, friendly, helpful and with a good sense of humour. He told us a lot about growing up under Soviet rule which was a fascinating insight. He always had suggestions for possible restaurants, helpful for me as I am a vegetarian. I had some great meals and some that were not! Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you put on LOTS of insect repellant in the Lahemaa National Park. If you are vegetarian take some snacks for 'emergencies'. Suggestions All our day guides were very good as were the drivers. The last driver we had was especially friendly and helpful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/10/2023
Chris Nixon - Traveled, June 2023
Three Baltic Capitals plus so much more. As other reviewers have said, this is an excellent trip that not only travels to the three capitals but includes other interesting places, such as the university town of Tartu, the eerie Hill of Crosses and the wildness of the Curonian Spit. Each of the tour guides explained the history of each location in a succinct style and the contrast between the capitals. (Medieval Tallinn, Art Nouveau Riga and Baroque Vilnius.) We were fortunate to visit Riga at the time of their Midsummer Festival, which was an added bonus. Plus a Jazz Festival in Klaipeda. Most Inspirational Moment So many. The Maritime History museums in Tallinn. The serenity of the National Parks in all three countries (Lahemaa, Gauja & Curonian Spit.) Plus the chilling Cold War Museum in Plokstine Forest and the KGB Museum in Vilnius. Thoughts on Group Leader Yevgeniya was a very knowledgable guide with over 30 years experience. Her knowledge of both ancient and modern history was extensive. It could occasionally be more than we could take in, especially on the longer coach journeys. A more succinct style would have been welcomed on these longer journeys. Advice for Potential Travellers Although the pace of the trip can be brisk at times, ensure you maximise your opportunities to visit the excellent museums. Especially the Maritime Museum in Tallinn, the Art Nouveau Museum in Riga and the KGB Museum in Vilnius. And do try the local food and drink. Suggestions It would be good to know in advance that the Exodus flights are via Helsinki, as I could have extended the trip in Helsinki.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2023
Katia Moretti - Traveled, June 2023
Fantastic holiday Fantastic holiday! The group was great and fun despite the age gap. the tour leader Lukas was very knowledgeable, competent and fun!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2023
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