Baltic Capitals: Vilnius & Riga Overnight (Double)
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Port
Klaipeda, Lithuania
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All,68
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$759.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
32 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (L/D) Klaipeda - Vilnius
Begin this fascinating Overnight Tour with a panoramic drive through Klaipeda. Then, set off on a pleasant four-hour drive to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.
In Vilnius, you'll get a feel for the charming atmosphere of the historic Old Town. Vilnius is famous for its more than 40 churches of different architectural styles in the Old Town alone. St Anne's Church, built in the 15th century, is a superb example of flamboyant Gothic architecture. Its façade has remained remarkably unchanged for five centuries.
You'll also visit the Church of St Peter & St Paul, one of the few restored examples of white Baroque in Europe.
Step inside the immensely interesting KGB Museum, which represents the very worst side of the Soviet era. The museum contains many documents and photographs as well as cells used for the imprisonment of 'dissidents.'
A drive through Uzupis showcases the Bohemian soul of Vilnius and leads to Cathedral Square. The 15th-century Cathedral was the coronation site of the Grand Dukes and stands in the territory of the Lower Castle. From here, it's a short walk to the Presidential Palace -- a notable piece of Lithuanian Classicism.
The campus of Vilnius University -- one of the oldest in Eastern Europe -- is composed of thirteen quaint courtyards. A lovely stroll through the Old Town gives you a chance to meet the local vendors presenting their crafts at colorful market stalls. Be sure to browse in the amber and linen shops as well.
Lunch features Lithuanian cuisine.
You may wish to step out this evening for a short walk through Vilnius by night. End your day with dinner in the five-star hotel's fine dining restaurant.
Hotel: The Imperial Hotel Vilnius
Day 2 (B/L) Vilnius - Riga
An early start sees you leaving the hotel around 6am with a light breakfast on the coach. Cross the border and head to Riga -- the capital of Latvia. During the five-hour journey, you'll take a break at the Hill of Crosses -- a major pilgrimage site in Lithuania.
Riga, nicknamed "the Little Paris," is an ancient Hanseatic city founded in 1201 on the banks of the Daugava River. Until 1856, fortifications and earthen ramparts surrounded Riga. Since then, the town has changed greatly, and its city center offers one of the largest and most ornate collections of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Each house is different, and yet each perfectly encapsulates Art Nouveau style from the early 20th century.
Continue with a leisurely panoramic drive along the boulevards of Riga, passing the 14th-century Riga Castle. You'll stop in front of the Opera House and walk through Latvian history. Stroll through courtyards, see 13th-century St Peter's Church, St John's Church, part of the restored city wall, and the medieval John's Yard.
The heart of Old Riga is Dome Cathedral Square. The iconic buildings of Riga around here include the House of Blackheads and the historical Riga Stock Exchange. The latter is now the new Riga Art Museum.
Take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the Old Town's many restaurants.
Notes:
Tour requires considerable walking in Vilnius and Riga. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, and many steps. Participants can stay on the coach at any time or choose to walk less; however, this will mean missing some of the attractions. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Blind and/or deaf guests may require assistance. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. It is essential to bring your medications with you. Dietary requirements or any other special requests should be requested as early as possible. Bring sturdy non-skid walking shoes. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. You must book this overland PRIOR to sailing. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. The cut-off date is 35 days before the ship's call at Klaipeda. Due to the popularity of this tour and strict booking conditions, cancellation fees start 35 days prior to the call at Klaipeda. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Airport assistance and transfers, transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour. Important information regarding visa requirements: It is solely each participant's responsibility to obtain any necessary visas, tourist cards and vaccinations, if required, to participate in Overland Adventures and/or Overnights and to keep apprised of any policy changes. Visas may be required for any/all countries your tour departs from and travels through and for the country where you will rejoin the ship. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the cruise. Your travel agent can assist you with your visa needs. If you require further assistance, Holland America Line's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. US and Canadian citizens can reach them by phone or email: US citizens: 866 788 1100 or email customerservice@cibtvisa.com. Canadian citizens: 866 935 8472 or email customerservice@cibtvisas.ca. CIBTvisas phone numbers and email addresses for Dutch, German, Australian, United Kingdom, Belgian, Singapore, Spanish, Swiss and French citizens can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of Holland America Line's website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/hollandamerica. You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.