The perfect 2-week Baltic States Itinerary

Introduction

In June 2022, we made a 2-week road trip through the Baltic States. We started in Vilnius (Lithuania), rented a car, and explored as much as we could on our way to Tallinn (Estonia), stopping along the way in Latvia.

The Baltic States had been on our list for a while. It’s a region that isn’t overly touristic, and you don’t hear much about it, which made it all the more intriguing.

And in truth, it was incredible. Each of the three countries surprised us in its own way. From charming old towns to peaceful national parks, we loved the variety of landscapes, cultures, and experiences.

In this guide, we’ll take you through our complete 2-week Baltic itinerary, covering the main cities, natural wonders, and hidden gems in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.

Getting There

The best way to start your Baltic States itinerary is by flying into either Vilnius (Lithuania) in the south or Tallinn (Estonia) in the north, depending on your travel plans and flight availability.

• Starting in Vilnius (South to North): This is what we personally did and highly recommend. Vilnius International Airport (VNO) has regular connections to most major European cities, and it’s often one of the more affordable entry points into the region. From Vilnius, you can easily begin your itinerary Baltic States adventure by driving north through Latvia and ending in Estonia.
• Starting in Tallinn (North to South): Alternatively, you can start your trip in Tallinn, Estonia’s charming capital. Tallinn Airport (TLL) is small but well-connected, especially with flights from Scandinavia and Western Europe. From there, you can rent a car and drive south through Latvia to Lithuania.

No matter which direction you choose, both routes are easy to follow, well-signed, and filled with beautiful stops along the way. Public transport is possible, but renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore national parks, small towns, and off-the-beaten-path gems.

Moving Around

For this Baltic States itinerary, we highly recommend renting a car. It’s by far the best way to explore all three countries with flexibility, especially if you want to visit national parks, smaller villages, and places that are off the main tourist trail.

The roads are in very good condition, signage is clear, and crossing borders between Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia is seamless—no checkpoints, no paperwork, just a regular road. We didn’t even notice we had crossed into a new country until our GPS told us.

If you prefer not to drive, you can still follow a similar itinerary Baltic States using public transportation. There are regular buses and trains connecting the major cities like Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn, as well as smaller towns. Companies like Lux Express and Ecolines offer comfortable, affordable, and reliable service between countries. However, be aware that public transport can limit your ability to explore more remote natural areas like Gauja National Park or Soomaa National Park.

Our recommendation: If you’re doing a Baltic States itinerary over 2 weeks, rent a car. It gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want, go at your own pace, and discover hidden spots that make this region so special.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to visit

The best time to follow a Baltic States itinerary is from late spring to early autumn, especially between May and September. This period offers the most comfortable weather, open attractions, and long daylight hours—perfect for a road trip. Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown to help you plan your itinerary Baltic States adventure:

• Spring (April–May): Spring can be chilly, especially early on, but it’s a peaceful time to explore cities and parks with fewer tourists. Nature is starting to bloom, and prices are generally lower than peak season.
• Summer (June–August): Summer is the most popular and easiest time to travel. Expect pleasant temperatures (20–27°C), endless daylight (up to 18 hours), and lively local events. It’s the perfect season for hiking, outdoor cafés, and coastal views—just book accommodation early.
• Autumn (September–October): Still a great time to visit. The crowds thin out, and the landscapes turn golden. Cities are quieter, but you’ll still find museums open and nature at its most photogenic. By late October, some tourist services start shutting down.
• Winter (November–March): Winter transforms the region with snow and Christmas markets, especially in cities like Tallinn and Riga. While magical, it’s not ideal for a road trip-focused Baltic states itinerary—unless you love snowy scenes and cozy atmospheres.

Our recommendation: Plan your itinerary Baltic States for June or September—you’ll get the best mix of weather, light crowds, and open attractions.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to stay

One of the best things about planning a Baltic States itinerary is how affordable and varied the accommodations are. Whether you’re into boutique hotels, cozy guesthouses, or modern apartments, you’ll find plenty of good options in every country. Here’s a quick breakdown by region based on our own experience:

Lithuania

• Vilnius: Stay in or near the Old Town for easy walking access to the city’s main sights. Look for small design hotels or restored heritage buildings.
• Curonian Spit / Nida: Opt for a cute guesthouse or beachside pension. It’s all about peace, pine trees, and the sea here.

Latvia

• Riga: You’ll find everything from stylish apartments to high-end hotels. We stayed centrally and were able to walk everywhere.
• Gauja National Park: Choose countryside guesthouses or family-run lodges in Sigulda, Līgatne, or Cēsis for a nature-filled stop on your itinerary Baltic States.

Estonia

• Tartu: This student city has great budget options, cool hostels, and a few charming hotels right in the center.
• Soomaa National Park: For a more immersive experience, stay in a local hut, or camp for free near the trailheads.
• Pärnu: We stayed in a lovely villa just a few minutes from the beach—perfect for a relaxing break.
• Tallinn: You’ll find everything from stylish boutique hotels inside the Old Town to modern stays near the harbor. We didn’t even touch our car while we were there.

Pro tip: Book your accommodations ahead of time, especially in summer. The Baltic countries are still a bit under the radar, but popular spots like the Curonian Spit or Tallinn fill up quickly in peak season.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

What to eat

One of our favorite parts of this Baltic States itinerary was trying local food. Each country has its own culinary identity, but they all share a love for comfort dishes, hearty soups, dark rye bread, and fermented flavors. Here’s a taste of what to expect during your itinerary Baltic States adventure:

Lithuania:

• Cepelinai: Giant potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese, topped with sour cream and bacon bits.
• Šaltibarščiai: Cold beetroot soup that’s neon pink—surprisingly refreshing in summer.
• Kibinai: Small pastries stuffed with meat or vegetables (originally from the Karaim community).
• Rye bread: Almost every meal comes with it—thick, dense, and delicious.

Latvia

• Grey peas with bacon: A traditional comfort food that’s simple but filling.
• Cold soup: Similar to Lithuania’s, but with its own twist.
• Smoked fish: Especially sprats and herring—served with potatoes or rye bread.
• Pīrāgi: Little crescent-shaped pastries filled with bacon and onions.

We tried sprats and herring in Riga, plus green pea soup in rye bread and cabbage with potatoes from a market stand—it was super local and super tasty.

Estonia

• Black bread: A staple that’s darker and sweeter than in Lithuania or Latvia.
• Mulgipuder: A mash of potatoes and barley often served with bacon and onions.
• Wild berries and mushrooms: Often foraged and found in sauces, pies, or jams.
• Soups and stews: Especially fish-based along the coast.

In Tartu, we ate at a traditional beer cellar, and in Tallinn we had medieval-style bites and incredible Estonian pies in a local bakery.

Tip: Markets are a great place to eat on the go. You’ll find simple, homemade dishes and get a real feel for local flavors—without spending much. Don’t be afraid to try something new even if you don’t recognize the name!

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

2-Week Baltic States Itinerary

The Baltic States are compact and easy to explore by car, making them perfect for a road trip. Our itinerary Baltic States took us through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, with one final detour to Helsinki. We spent 16 days in total, but if you’re short on time, you can skip Day 15 and combine Days 14 and 16 to make it a full Baltic States itinerary in just two weeks.

• Day 1 – Arrive in Vilnius
• Day 2 – Visit Vilnius + Trakai Castle
• Day 3 – Drive to Kaunas + Explore the city
• Day 4 – Road trip to the Curonian Spit (via Klaipėda)
• Day 5 – Explore the Curonian Spit (Nida, dunes, beaches)
• Day 6 – Morning on the Spit + Drive to Riga (stop at Hill of Crosses)
• Day 7 – Discover Riga Old Town
• Day 8 – Open-Air Museum + Drive to Sigulda
• Day 9 – Explore Gauja National Park (castles, hikes)
• Day 10 – Road trip to Tartu (Estonia)
• Day 11 – Day trip to Soomaa National Park
• Day 12 – Relax and explore Pärnu
• Day 13 – Drive to Tallinn + First discoveries
• Day 14 – Full day in Tallinn (Old Town, museums, cafés)
• Day 15 – Optional day trip to Helsinki (Finland)
• Day 16 – Return or departure from Tallinn

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

2 Weeks Itinerary Baltic States – day by day

Day 1: Arrive in Vilnius

Fly into Vilnius International Airport, pick up your rental car, and drive to your accommodation. Once settled in, head out for a first stroll around the Old Town and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Where to stay in Vilnius:

• (€) Angel Town
• (€€) CONTI HOTEL VILNIUS, Conference Centre, Restaurant & Bar
• (€€€) Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

Read: 20 Best things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania, in 2 days

Day 2: Visit Vilnius & Trakai

In the morning, continue exploring the charming streets of Vilnius—there’s always something new to stumble upon. For lunch, head to Pirmas Blynas, a cozy café known for its delicious pancakes and inspiring social mission.

In the afternoon, hop in the car and take a short drive to one of Lithuania’s most iconic landmarks: Trakai Castle, beautifully set on an island in the middle of a lake. It’s the perfect half-day trip from the capital.

Where to stay in Vilnius:

• (€) Angel Town
• (€€) CONTI HOTEL VILNIUS, Conference Centre, Restaurant & Bar
• (€€€) Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

Read: 11 Best things to do in Trakai, Lithuania, in 1 day

Day 3: Drive to Kaunas + Visit Kaunas

Drive straight to Kaunas and begin your visit with the powerful and moving Ninth Fort of the Kaunas Fortress, a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of the Nazi and Soviet regimes.

After the visit, head into the city center to stroll around Kaunas Old Town, explore its lively pedestrian streets, and soak in the atmosphere of Lithuania’s second-largest city.

Where to stay in Kaunas:

• (€) LLaisves ave. Apartments Mini
• (€€) Laisves ave. Apartments
• (€€€) Radisson Hotel Kaunas

Read: 15 Best things to do in Kaunas, Lithuania, in 1 day

Day 4: Road trip to the Curonian split

Leave Kaunas early in the morning and take the scenic route toward the Curonian Spit, driving along the smaller road that follows the Nemunas River. Along the way, make two worthwhile stops at Raudonė Castle and Panemunės Castle, both offering a glimpse into Lithuania’s medieval past.

Once you reach Klaipėda, take the short ferry ride across to the Curonian Spit and head south to Juodkrantė, a peaceful village surrounded by forest and dunes. In the late afternoon, stretch your legs with a walk along the Educational Dendrological Trail, a quiet path perfect for unwinding after the drive.

Where to stay in Juodkrantė:

• (€) Prie Ąžuolo
• (€€) Come2rest – Smilga 
• (€€€) Vila MAY

Read: Kaunas to the Curonian Spit: The Ultimate 1-Day Road Trip Guide

Day 5: Explore the Curonian spit

Hop in your car and spend the day exploring the Curonian Spit. Drive slowly toward the southern end, stopping at every scenic spot along the way—from colorful fishing villages to windswept viewpoints and pine forests. Take your time enjoying the peaceful vibe of this UNESCO-listed sandbar.

In the afternoon, head to the beach for a relaxing walk along the shoreline. Dip your feet in the (usually freezing) Baltic Sea, or, if you’re feeling bold, go for a swim!

Where to stay in Juodkrantė:

• (€) Prie Ąžuolo
• (€€) Come2rest – Smilga 
• (€€€) Vila MAY

Read: 17 Best things to do in the Curonian Spit, Lithuania, in 3 days

Day 6: Curonian Spit + Road trip to Riga

In the morning, start making your way north toward the ferry back to the mainland. Before leaving the Curonian Spit, take one last moment to stop at the beach and enjoy the peaceful views.

Once back on the mainland, continue your road trip with a stop at one of Lithuania’s most unusual and powerful landmarks: the Hill of Crosses. Take your time wandering through this unique pilgrimage site before crossing the border into Latvia.

Drive on to Riga, the capital, and once you arrive and settle into your accommodation, head out for dinner in the city—you’ve officially made it to your second Baltic country!

Read: Hill of Crosses: Lithuania’s most sacred site in 2025

Day 7: Discover Riga

Time to spend a full day discovering Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia. Stroll through the charming Old Town, admire the Art Nouveau architecture, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.

Don’t miss the panoramic viewpoint at the top of St. Peter’s Church—it’s one of the best ways to see the city from above and get a true sense of Riga’s layout.

Where to stay in Riga:

• (€) Emily
• (€€) Konventa Sēta Hotel
• (€€€) Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

Read: 24 Best things to do in Riga, Latvia, in 2 days or more

Day 8: Open-air Museum & Sigulda

To continue your Baltic States itinerary, leave Riga in the morning and head to the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, located just outside the city. This fascinating museum is one of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe, where you can explore traditional Latvian farmsteads, churches, windmills, and wooden houses set in a beautiful forested area.

After your visit, drive on to Sigulda, a gateway to Gauja National Park. Once there, lace up your shoes and trek the scenic Turaida Castle Trail, which connects key historical sites like Turaida Castle, Krimulda Manor, and Gutman’s Cave—all surrounded by the lush forests and rolling hills of the Gauja River Valley.

Where to stay in Gauja National Park:

• (€) Green bear
• (€€) Karlamuiza Country Hotel
• (€€€) Ezerkalni

Read: Gauja National Park: Latvia’s most incredible park in 2 days

Day 9: Gauja National Park

Let’s explore the largest and oldest national park in Latvia: Gauja National Park. Start your day with some hiking along the beautiful Gauja River, soaking in the peaceful scenery of forests, cliffs, and riverside trails. Then, make your way to the charming village of Līgatne, known for its nature trails, sandstone caves, and historical paper mill.

In the afternoon, drive to the picturesque town of Cēsis, one of our favorite places in Latvia. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit the medieval castle, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this stunning little town tucked into the heart of the park.

Where to stay in Gauja National Park:

• (€) Green bear
• (€€) Karlamuiza Country Hotel
• (€€€) Ezerkalni

Day 10: Road trip to Tartu

Time flies on this Baltic States itinerary, and it’s already time to cross into Estonia! Leave early in the morning and head to your first stop: the beautiful Sangaste Castle. This fairy-tale red-brick castle is open to visitors, and you’re free to wander almost everywhere inside. After exploring, enjoy a casual lunch at the small canteen located behind the stables.

Next, make a relaxing stop at Otepää Lake—a peaceful spot to rest by the water, take a short walk, or just enjoy the natural scenery. It’s one of those unexpected gems that make this itinerary Baltic States so rewarding.

Finally, continue on to Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city. Arrive by late afternoon and spend the evening strolling through the old streets and lively squares of this youthful and academic town.

Where to stay in Tartu:

• (€) Looming Hostel
• (€€) Estonishing Stay Premium Lofts
• (€€€) Antonius Hotel

Read: Sangaste Castle: The Baltics’ most impressive Gothic Castle

Read: 10 Best things to do in Tartu, Estonia, in 1 day or more

Day 11: Soomaa National Park

If you wish, you can spend a couple more hours in the morning exploring Tartu before continuing your Baltic States itinerary. Then hit the road and head to the peaceful wilderness of Soomaa National Park—one of Estonia’s most unique natural areas.

Spend the afternoon hiking its three best trails: Riisa, Ingatsi, and the Beaver Trail. Walking through these bog landscapes is truly one of the most unforgettable moments of this itinerary Baltic States—peaceful, surreal, and totally different from anything else in the region.

After your hikes, drive to the coastal town of Pärnu, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beach-town charm. Once there, take a slow stroll through the town center or head straight to the beach for a sunset walk.

Where to stay in Pärnu:

• (€) Villa Ene
• (€€) Austri Villa 
• (€€€) Villa Ammende

Read: Soomaa National Park: Estonia’s most incredible national park in 1-day

Day 12: Pärnu

On the 12th day of your 2 Weeks Itinerary Baltic States, it’s time to slow down and enjoy the laid-back charm of Pärnu, often called the best beach town in Estonia. This seaside city is famous for its wide, sandy beach, 19th-century timber villas, and relaxed summer holiday atmosphere.

Spend the day wandering the quaint streets, checking out local art shops and cafés, or simply soaking up the Baltic sun at Pärnu Beach. Whether you’re into spas, seaside walks, or just want a break from the road, Pärnu is the perfect stop to unwind on your Baltic States itinerary.

Where to stay in Pärnu:

• (€) Villa Ene
• (€€) Austri Villa 
• (€€€) Villa Ammende

Read: 17 Best things to do in Pärnu, Estonia, in 2 days or more

Day 13: Ride & Visit to Tallinn

On Day 13 of your Baltic States itinerary, head straight for Tallinn, the capital and largest city of Estonia. Once you arrive, dive right into exploring its stunning medieval Old Town.

Tallinn is not only the most visited city in the region—it also became our favorite capital of the entire itinerary Baltic States. With its cobblestone streets, historic towers, and fairy-tale atmosphere, it’s easy to see why travelers fall in love with it at first sight.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

• (€) N48 Boutique Hotel
• (€€) Hilton Tallinn Park
• (€€€) Schlössle Hotel

Read: 28 Best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia, in 4 days

Day 14: Tallinn

Start your second day in Tallinn with one of the city’s excellent free walking tours—a great way to dive into the rich history and quirky stories of Estonia’s capital. The guides are passionate, and it really sets the tone for understanding the city.

After the tour, keep exploring Tallinn at your own pace. We honestly loved this place so much that we spent a lot of time just wandering around, even if it meant revisiting the same spots more than once. The medieval charm, cozy cafés, and hidden courtyards make Tallinn one of the highlights of our Baltic States itinerary—and totally worth lingering in.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

• (€) N48 Boutique Hotel
• (€€) Hilton Tallinn Park
• (€€€) Schlössle Hotel

Day 15: Helsinki

On Day 15 of your Baltic States itinerary, take a break from Estonia and hop on a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki for a one-day adventure in Finland. The journey is quick and smooth, with multiple daily departures. We took the early morning ferry and it gave us a full day to explore.

Once in Helsinki, head straight to Suomenlinna, the impressive sea fortress spread across six linked islands. It’s one of the best things to do in Helsinki—peaceful, historic, and beautifully set by the water.

After exploring Suomenlinna, spend the rest of the day strolling around Helsinki’s lively city center, checking out landmarks, cafés, and parks before heading back to Tallinn in the evening.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

• (€) N48 Boutique Hotel
• (€€) Hilton Tallinn Park
• (€€€) Schlössle Hotel

Read: 17 Best things to do in Helsinki, Finland, in 1 day or more

Day 16: Return

And just like that, your 2 Weeks Itinerary Baltic States comes to an end. It’s time to drive back to the airport, return your rental car if you haven’t already, and catch your flight home.

We truly hope you enjoyed this Baltic States itinerary as much as we did. From medieval cities and quiet forests to wild beaches and hidden castles, this road trip gave us some unforgettable memories—and we’re sure it will do the same for you.