Baltic Capitals and Enchanting Castles Journey

Welcome to Warsaw! Upon your arrival, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, allowing you some leisure time to unwind and explore at your own pace. As you settle in, feel free to check the boards at the hotel reception for important information about the start of your tour. Enjoy the freedom to explore the local surroundings or simply relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We commence our day with a panoramic tour of Warsaw, guided by a local expert. This city of nearly two million people serves as a major political and economic centre in Poland, offering a fascinating mix of modern structures alongside painstakingly restored historical landmarks. As we explore the charming Old Town, youll encounter the majestic Royal Palace and cobbled streets, all meticulously rebuilt after World War II and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our tour includes a visit to the Palace of Culture a Soviet-era skyscraper and a reflection on the poignant history of what was once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe. The journey continues with a stroll through Lazienki Park, where the renowned Chopin Monument is nestled. In the afternoon, you have some free time to delve deeper into Warsaw's rich history and vibrant culture, with options to visit museums such as the National Museum and the Warsaw Rising Museum, or to wander around the lively city centre filled with shops and activities.

On the third day, we embark on a journey to northern Poland following breakfast. Our initial destination is the quaint village of Olsztynek, home to the open-air Museum of Folk Architecture, where entry is included. Within this evocative setting, youll find a collection of historic wooden houses, timeless mills, and an authentic traditional church, creating a sense of stepping into the past. We then proceed to the remarkable Elblag Canal, known as Poland's longest navigable canal. Here, we include a museum visit located in an area unique for its ingenious rail system, which transports boats overland to traverse changes in elevation. Our exploration continues to Malbork, where we visit its magnificent castle, with entry included along the green route. This impressive medieval fortress, built by the Teutonic Order in the 13th century, is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our day concludes in Gdansk, formerly known as Danzig, arriving in the evening. The citys historic centre offers a lively and stunning backdrop, and we recommend an evening stroll to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Following breakfast, we'll meet our guide at the European Solidarity Centre, a modern architectural marvel dedicated to the Solidarity movement, which significantly contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union. Among its features is a poignant monument honouring the workers who lost their lives. Our next stop will be the Museum of the Second World War, where you'll gain a deeper understanding of the conflict that took the lives of millions in Poland. Later, you'll have the opportunity to wander the historical centre of Gdansk before we make our way to Sopot. This vibrant seaside retreat on the Baltic Sea is famed for its long sandy beach and boasts one of Europes longest wooden piers, providing breathtaking views of the shore. In the evening, we'll board a modern ferry at 7:30 p.m. bound for Sweden your overnight accommodation will be in comfortable cabins and breakfast will be provided onboard.

Following a restful night on board, our ferry reaches Karlskrona in southern Sweden at approximately 06:30 a.m. We then continue our journey by road towards Stockholm, making a stop in the charming seaside town of Vstervik, known for its quaint historic centre. By afternoon, we arrive in Stockholm, the beautiful capital of Sweden, famously spread over fourteen islands in the Baltic Sea archipelago, all connected by an intricate network of bridges and ferries. Stockholm is celebrated for its rich history, striking architecture, and harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The afternoon is left for you to explore at your leisure. We recommend wandering through the historic centre and possibly visiting the city's renowned museums and scenic parks.

Today, we embark on an insightful panoramic tour of Stockholm, the enchanting capital city uniquely built across 14 interconnected islands. Our first destination is Gamla Stan, affectionately known as "the city between bridges," where we will explore a vibrant old quarter replete with notable landmarks including the Nobel Prize Museum, which celebrates the achievements of the prize's recipients. We will also see the imposing Royal Palace and the Cathedral near the main square of Stortorget. Wherever feasible, we'll take in the expansive views from the Fjllgatan viewpoint, offering a breathtaking perspective of the cityscape. Once the guided tour concludes, you will have leisure time to discover more of Stockholm at your own pace. Recommended activities include visiting additional museums and enjoying the well-kept parks. You might choose to explore the City Hall or the Vasa Museum, which houses a well-preserved 17th-century warship. Take this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating culture that Stockholm has to offer during your free time.

Day 7 invites you to enjoy a leisurely day in the enchanting city of Stockholm. Take the opportunity to explore this vibrant capital at your own pace, whether its delving into its rich history, visiting world-class museums, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in one of its picturesque parks. As the day draws to a close, well board a modern ferry for an overnight journey to Finland. Settle into your comfortable double en-suite cabin and relax as we glide across the sea, anticipating the adventures that await.

Upon arriving in Finland, we suggest making your way to the ship's deck to witness the spectacular sunrise over the land Islands, a serene archipelago of lush, forested isles. Following our disembarkation from the ferry, you'll have the opportunity to explore Turku, a city infused with Swedish heritage. We will then journey to nearby Naantali, a picturesque coastal town renowned for its charming wooden houses overlooking the sea. Our travels will continue onward to Helsinki, where we shall arrive just in time for lunch. The afternoon is yours to wander at leisure; you may wish to explore the city's bustling old market, admire buildings featuring Russian architectural influences, or visit its splendid churches.

Today we embark on an enriching boat journey to the Suomenlinna Islands, an archipelago where youll find a magnificent fortress that once safeguarded Helsinkis harbour entrance. Now recognised as a World Heritage Site, these islands offer a delightful opportunity for exploration, linked by pedestrian bridges. Following our morning discovery, we'll board a ferry for a scenic two and a half hour voyage to Estonia. As we depart from Helsinki, take in the magnificent views of the surrounding islands. By evening, we will arrive in Tallinn, a city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Today, you'll discover the charming capital of Estonia, a city known for preserving its medieval heart. We'll begin with a panoramic tour, allowing you to explore the city's impressive ancient walls, splendid churches, and bustling squares. Stroll through its cobbled streets and soak up the array of attractions that blend historical authenticity with lively modernity. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure; perhaps delve deeper into the city's rich history or relax with a coffee in one of its quaint cafes.

Today, we travel through scenic landscapes of forests and plains on our way to Prnu, a well-loved seaside resort. From there, we make our way across the border into Latvia, where you'll be treated to an included lunch just before we explore the medieval Turaida Castle with its expansive park and intriguing sculptures (admission included). Following this, youll have the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll in Sigulda, a delightful little town set amid beautiful surroundings. Our journey then continues to Riga with a poignant visit to the Salaspils Memorial. Situated on the grounds of a former Nazi concentration camp, this site has been a significant monumental complex since 1967, paying tribute to the victims of the regime. We will reach the vibrant city of Riga in the evening.

Today, we embark on a panoramic tour of Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltic states. As we explore, you'll notice remnants of the Soviet era blending with the city's rich cultural fabric. Riga is celebrated for its medieval Historic Centre and stunning Art Nouveau architecture, offering a delightful contrast of old and new. Following the tour, the afternoon is yours to discover the city at your own pace. Whether you choose to delve into its cultural heritage, visit local markets, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Riga is sure to captivate you with its unique charm.

On Day 13, we'll depart from Riga early in the morning, bound for Lithuania. Our first stop will be the Baroque masterpiece of Rundale Palace, designed by the architect behind St. Petersburg's Hermitage Museum. As we journey across the border into Lithuania, you'll notice the country's strong Catholic heritage, exemplified by a visit to the Hill of Crosses. This extraordinary site is adorned with thousands of crosses, varying in size and style. Lunch is included en route to boost your energy for the day's explorations.Later, we will visit the scenic Trakai Castle. This picturesque fortress, perched on an island amidst a serene lake, offers a stunning glimpse into Lithuania's storied past. We will then proceed to Vilnius, where we will conclude our day's journey. Please note that the visit to Trakai might occur the next day, depending on the daylight available. As we round off the day, you'll have the chance to settle into Vilnius in the evening.

Today, we will explore Vilnius, a city famously built on seven hills that rivals Rome in terms of its scenic beauty. Our panoramic tour will lead us through the city's rich tapestry of history, showcasing its Baroque churches and ancient city walls. You'll marvel at the grandeur of its castle and the vibrant commercial streets at the heart of the city, dotted with approximately 1,200 medieval houses. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to wander and discover Vilnius at your own pace, diving into its unique blend of ancient and modern charm. Whether you choose to visit museums or simply enjoy the local atmosphere, this city offers ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

As we continue our adventure through Poland, our day begins with a visit to Grutas Park in Lithuania, an intriguing place known as "Stalin's World." Here, you can explore a fascinating collection of 86 statues from the Soviet era, providing a unique insight into the historical period. Following our visit, we will journey to the picturesque lakeside town of Augustw for lunch, offering you a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. After our break, we travel towards central Poland, concluding the day with an arrival in Warsaw by the evening.

As the day begins, we enjoy a leisurely breakfast, marking the conclusion of our remarkable tour. While our adventure may be drawing to a close in Warsaw, the wealth of unforgettable experiences and cherished memories will linger long after. Whether you choose to explore more of this fascinating city or simply reflect on your journey, we hope the sights and stories you've encountered have inspired and delighted you. Safe travels as you continue on your onward journey.