What to Expect
Our day begins with a comfortable drive south from Riga in an air-conditioned minibus. Along the way, I share stories that help bring the landscape to life — the rise of Baltic German nobility, the ambitions of dukes and empires, and the everyday lives of people who lived in the shadow of great estates.
The highlight of the day is Rundāle Palace, often called the "Versailles of the Baltics." Designed in the 18th century by Bartolomeo Rastrelli — the same architect behind St Petersburg's Winter Palace — this is one of the most complete baroque residences in Northern Europe, with 138 rooms of gilded stucco, ceiling paintings, and beautifully restored French formal gardens covering 10 hectares.
I accompany you through the palace myself, with the visit supported by a digital audio guide hired on site. You'll have time to explore the gardens at your own pace — including the rose garden with over 2,300 roses and 600 varieties if you visit between late May and July.
After the palace, we stop for a relaxed sit-down lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to Bauska Castle — a medieval fortress at the confluence of two rivers, where the mood shifts from elegance to strategy. Our final stop is a local brewery that brews traditional lager using Latvian recipes. They've made a conscious choice to stay local and don't export — so this is beer you can only taste here in Latvia.
Highlights
From Your Guide
Daiga & her local specialists
Who this day is for
Architecture lovers who want the story behind the rooms, not just the rooms. History buffs—photographers who want baroque interiors and formal gardens. Couples looking for a civilised day out. Families — kids love the castle towers and the brewery visit.
One thing people miss
The 1760s parquet flooring in the Duke's apartments. Everyone looks up at the ceiling paintings — and they should, they're extraordinary. But look down. That herringbone parquet was laid when Biron was in his seventies, back from Siberian exile, finishing what he started. You're walking on his stubbornness.
Seasonal variation
Late May to mid-June for the rose garden in full bloom — 2,300 roses, 600 varieties. September for golden afternoon light on the south façade and empty rooms. Winter for the most atmospheric visit — just you, the palace, and silence. I run this excursion year-round, and every season has its rewards.
Your Day, Hour by Hour
Depart from Riga
We meet at the designated meeting point in central Riga and head south in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus. Along the way, I share stories about the Zemgale region — the rise of Baltic German nobility, the ambitions of dukes and empires, and the everyday lives of people who lived in the shadow of great estates.
Rundāle Palace & Gardens
The highlight of the day. I accompany you through the palace myself, with the visit supported by a digital audio guide hired on site. On some dates, a licensed palace guide may join our group as a complimentary enhancement. You'll have time to explore the beautifully restored French formal gardens at your own pace.
Sit-down Lunch
We stop for a relaxed sit-down lunch with a drink at a local restaurant. You pay for your own food and drinks directly to the restaurant. I'll be on hand to guide you through the menu and recommend local delicacies if you'd like.
Bauska Castle
The atmosphere shifts from elegance to strategy. This medieval fortress once guarded important trade routes and river crossings. Its ruins reveal the region's turbulent borderland history — I'll walk you through the centuries of conflict and power that shaped this corner of Europe.
Local Brewery Visit & Tasting
Our final stop is at a local brewery that brews traditional lager using Latvian recipes. They've made a conscious decision to stay local and don't export — so this is beer you can only taste here in Latvia. You'll learn about their brewing traditions and enjoy a tasting before we head back to Riga.
Return to Riga
We arrive back in Riga by early evening. By then, I hope you leave feeling you have used your day well, seen something special, and made warm memories.
What's Included
Included
Not Included
Good to Know
Meeting Point
We meet at a designated point in central Riga — exact details are shared when you book. The meeting point is easily reachable by public transport.
Palace Guide
I accompany you through Rundāle Palace myself. The visit is supported by a digital audio guide hired on site. On some dates, if a licensed palace guide is available, they may join our group at no extra cost — please see this as a complimentary enhancement rather than a guaranteed inclusion.
What to Wear
Comfortable walking shoes are a must — Bauska Castle involves some uneven surfaces and stairs. Dress in layers, especially in spring and autumn when the weather can change during the day.
Accessibility
Rundāle Palace is partially accessible for wheelchair users (ground floor). Bauska Castle involves stairs and uneven terrain. Please let me know in advance if you have any mobility concerns and I'll do my best to accommodate.
Children
Children are very welcome. The castle and brewery visit tend to be a hit with kids. Let me know the ages of your children when you book and I'll plan accordingly. Child price: €70.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the excursion for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Story Behind the Palace
Exile, Siberia, and a seventy-two-year-old duke's defiant comeback. Read the full story of how Rundāle Palace came to be — and why it still matters.
Read Daiga's Rundāle Story →Book This Excursion
Book Direct with Daiga
Same tour, same guide, same experience — just a better price when you book directly.