Christmas Markets in the Baltics

Tere tulemast! Welcome to Tallinn! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Tallinn Airport (TLL).

After breakfast, start your day with a guided tour of Tallinn’s enchanting Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Olaf’s Church, then you’ll break for lunch. In the later afternoon you’ll visit the festive Christmas market in Town Hall Square, where you can browse handmade gifts, admire the towering Christmas tree, and have the opportunity to enjoy local traditional snacks. Today you’ll want to dress warm and wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Tallinn City Tour

  After breakfast, meet your local guide for a city tour, exploring the key highlights of Tallinn, including its charming medieval Old Town, the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the historic Town Hall Square, and the scenic viewpoints of Toompea Hill. You will be walking around 2 miles (1.5 hours) during this tour. Please ensure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

  10:00· 120 min· Tallinn
• Tallinn Christmas Market Visit

  In the evening, meet your tour leader at the hotel and stroll to Town Hall Square to experience the festive Christmas market. At the heart of the market stands Estonia’s most important Christmas tree, a tradition dating back to 1441, making it the first publicly displayed Christmas tree in Europe. The festive square is adorned with twinkling lights, decorated trees, and charming holiday décor. The Estonian Christmas Market offers treats including black pudding, sauerkraut, gingerbread, and warm holiday drinks, along with a variety of handcrafted goods from local artisans.

  18:00· 60 min· Tallinn

Today, visit one of Tallinn's oldest coffee shops for a delightful marzipan workshop. This almond-and-sugar confection is one of Estonia's oldest sweet treats, and locals proudly claim it as their own invention. Under the guidance of a skilled local instructor, you'll paint your own marzipan figurine while discovering the fascinating history and cultural significance of this beloved delicacy. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. You can return to the festive Christmas markets to soak in more holiday cheer or visit some of Tallinn's renowned museums, such as the Estonian History Museum, the Kumu Art Museum, or the Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Old Town, shop for unique handicrafts, or relax in a cozy café with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate. In the evening, gather with the group to enjoy a traditional Estonian dinner. Don’t forget to dress warm today!

• Marzipan Decoration

  Step back in time as you explore one of Tallinn's oldest and most charming cafés, where you'll uncover its fascinating history and the intriguing tale of marzipan’s origins. Afterward, unleash your creativity by painting your very own marzipan figurine, guided by the expert hands of a talented local instructor, ensuring a truly memorable and hands-on experience.

  10:00· 60 min· Tallinn

Say farewell to Tallinn as you travel to Riga, the capital of Latvia. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours not including the stops you will be making and the activities you will be doing along the way. En route, make a stop at an apple farm near the city of Pärnu where you'll get an introduction to the farm, their practices, try some apple-cider and have lunch. After lunch you’ll arrive in Riga, and join your tour leader for a visit to Riga’s Christmas market. The rest of the evening is at your leisure. Today you’ll want to dress warm and wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Apple Farm Visit & Tasting

  Visit an apple farm to discover the daily operations and try some locally made apple cider. Your experience begins with a seasonal apple drink, setting the tone for what’s to come. Then, enjoy a tour of the farm, taste a variety of apples, and hear captivating stories about the farm's history throughout Estonia’s journey to independence over the past 150 years. After the tour, you’ll enjoy lunch at the farm.

  10:30· 120 min· Parnu
• Riga Christmas Market Visit

  Upon arrival in Riga, follow your guide as they lead you to the enchanting Riga Christmas market. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, this magical market comes alive with twinkling lights, vibrant decorations, and the cheerful sounds of the holiday season. Stroll through charming stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, traditional ornaments, and unique souvenirs, all while savoring the enticing aromas of seasonal treats like spiced mulled wine, roasted almonds, and freshly baked gingerbread. It’s a true feast for the senses and the perfect way to experience the warmth and charm of Riga during the holidays.

  18:00· 60 min· Riga
• Transfer · Tallinn → Riga

  Transfer from Tallinn to Pärnu. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

  private · 120 min
• Transfer · Parnu → Riga

  Take a transfer from Pärnu to Riga. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

  private · 180 min

In the morning, you’ll explore Riga with a guided city tour before continuing to Riga’s Central Market, one of Europe’s largest and most vibrant marketplaces. After visiting the market, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Riga at your own pace. Wander through the charming Old Town, visit museums like the Latvian National Museum of Art or the Occupation Museum, or relax in a cozy café. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, a perfect way to end the day.

• Riga Guided City Tour

  Today you’ll meet your local guide for a captivating tour through a city celebrated for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Wander through the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll discover landmarks like St. Peter’s Church and the lively Dome Square. As you explore, delve into Riga’s rich history—from its medieval beginnings to its significance as a major Hanseatic trading hub.

  10:00· 120 min· Riga
• Riga Central Market Visit

  Discover Riga’s Central Market, a lively hub of local culture and flavors. Stroll through its diverse stalls offering a wide variety of goods, from traditional Latvian cheeses like smoked cheese and Midsummer cheese to an assortment of pickled treats such as pickled cabbage and crunchy pickles. The market also features Latvian-grown and homemade products, exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and a range of manufactured merchandise. Finish the tour with a couple small bites from a local stall.

  12:00· 60 min· Riga

It's time to journey to the next Baltic capital, Vilnius, the charming and historic heart of Lithuania. Drive takes approximately 4 hours not including the stops you will be making and the activities you will be doing along the way. First you’ll stop in the town of Bauska for a guided tour of Bauska Castle. Then you’ll resume your transfer south making another stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Continue the transfer and arrive into Vilnius, known for its Baroque architecture, colourful arts scene, and UNESCO-listed Old Town. Upon arrival, explore Vilnius' festive Christmas market. Then the evening will be at your leisure. Today you’ll want to dress warm and wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Bauska Castle Visit

  To break the journey, stop in Bauska, located 1 hour from Riga, for a guided tour of Bauska Castle. This historic fortress dates back to the 15th century and once served as a stronghold of the Livonian Order. The castle complex consists of medieval ruins and a restored 16th-century ducal residence, offering a glimpse into the region’s past. Explore its halls, towers, and exhibitions showcasing artifacts from the era.

  11:00· 90 min· Bauska
• Vilnius Christmas Market Visit

  After arriving in Vilnius, follow your guide to the enchanting Vilnius Christmas Market, where the festive spirit fills the air. Wander through rows of cozy wooden stalls, beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and seasonal ornaments. The market is a treasure trove of handcrafted gifts, traditional decorations, and holiday treats, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere. As you explore, take in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season, making the most of this magical festive experience in the heart of Vilnius.

  19:00· 60 min· Vilnius
• Transfer · Riga → Bauska

  Take a transfer from Riga to Bauska.

  private · 60 min
• Transfer · Bauska → Vilnius

  Take a transfer from Bauska to Vilnius. You will make a stop along the way to get lunch. Additional bathroom stops will be made along the way as needed.

  private · 180 min

After breakfast this morning, you’ll get acquainted with Vilnius on a guided tour. Then the rest of the day is free for you to explore in Vilnius at your own pace. You can visit Vilnius Cathedral, stroll through the streets of the Old Town, or take in the panoramic views from the Gediminas Tower. For art lovers, the National Gallery of Art is a great option, or you can relax in one of the city's cozy cafés. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner to conclude your festive Christmas market journey through the Baltics.

• Vilnius City Tour

  This morning meet your local guide and enjoy an immersive tour of Vilnius, where history and creativity come together in perfect harmony. Stroll through the charming, UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, stunning Baroque architecture, and centuries of rich history. Admire iconic landmarks like the grand Vilnius Cathedral, a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit. Continue to the artistic Užupis district, a self-declared bohemian republic known for its colorful street art, quirky charm, and vibrant cultural scene.

  10:00· 120 min· Vilnius

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If you are departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Vilnius International Airport (VNO).