A Spring Time Adventure in Ireland with St. Patrick's in Killarney.
With Fishing Villages, Seaside Drives, Afternoon Tea, Cosy Pubs, Gardens, Castles, Abbeys, Cathedrals, Stone Circles, Portal Tombs and Dolmens and Megalithic Cemeteries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We start our adventure in Stockholm and then take overnight journey to Helsinki where we spend a few days before we take a short ferry to Tallinn. Once we are in the Baltics this overland journey roves the countryside and urban centers of the three independent Baltic countries – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Together they form a mosaic of countries ruled over in early years by the traders of the Hanseatic League, and later occupied by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II.  Admire the UNESCO-listed Old Towns of each of the Baltic capital cities. Begin in Tallinn, Estonia’s charming capital, with its narrow winding streets, red-roofed buildings, and enchanting churches. Travel to Latvia to explore Riga, 2014 European Capital of Culture, with its lovely cobbled center and turn-of-the-century architecture. Traveling via the coastal town of Klaipeda and the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit, arrive in Kaunas, Lithuania, a 2022 Capital of Culture. The journey ends in Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, a former Capital of Culture – an honor that showcased the city’s contribution to the cultural life of Europe.

This tour includes 17 nights of luxury hotel, small family hotel, guesthouse and boutique accommodation. We try to showcase as many different types of accommodation as possible on each tour. It also includes all dinners, lunches and breakfasts as listed in the itinerary, all activities, sightseeing and entrance fees as listed in itinerary, all taxes, fees and service charges. Guided minibus travel with luggage handling. The tour is limited to 14 people for a more enjoyable experience. 

$11,495US per person.
$1795 Single Supplement.
$1000 deposit. Fully refundable before the 180 day final balance due date. ​

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Please do not sign up for a tour until you have read through our Terms and Conditions.

Especially in regards to mobility, luggage limits etc. If you have not traveled with us before,

please contact us before booking.​

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Day 1 - This morning we wake up in Stockholm and then have have a 3 Hour Private Archipeligo Cruise of Stockholm. Known as the 'Venice of the North', the city is built across 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Our cruise is onboard a 1996 Princess Flybridge Motor Yacht. As we leave the city, we’ll enjoy stunning waterfront views before heading out into the archipelago and towards Lake Mälaren. Enjoy the cruise from the upper sun deck, the comfortable saloon, or the aft deck as island hop through this amazing archipelago. After our cruise we will settle into the Cadier Bar of the Grand Hotel for a Champagne Afternoon Tea with a Swedish Flair and a backdrop of the Old City. After tea we will experience Stockholm from the land side as we take a tour of Gamla Stan which is the name given to the old town. We will meet our guide at Gustav Adolfs Torg in the center of the city and begin strolling through the picturesque streets while discovering its rich history. We will walk along some of the most emblematic places on the island, such as the Stockholm Royal Palace, the statue of St. George and the Dragon, the narrowest street in the city, and the famous main square, Stortorget, the stage of one of Sweden’s darkest historic events. Our knowledgeable guide will lead us through the intriguing tales of this island, providing insights not only from its past but the contemporary Swedish way of life. Later this evening we will gather for dinner. Welcoming Dinner and Overnight Stockholm. (B,L,D)

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Day 2 - This morning we make a northern train journey to Uppsala, a charming city offering a unique blend of fascinating history, magnificent nature, great food and a vibrant cultural scene – all within easy walking distance. While here we will have a Guided City Tour of Sweden's fourth largest city. On the tour we will discover Uppsala’s rich heritage while walking through one of Sweden’s most historic cities. We will explore a destination shaped by Medieval traditions, royal history, and centuries of cultural transformation. Along the way we admire the magnificent Uppsala Cathedral and the historic castle, two architectural landmarks that reflect the city’s enduring significance. As we walk through historic streets we learn how Uppsala became a center of Swedish civilization, scholarship, and cultural heritage. Medieval architecture, historic landmarks, and remarkable traditions reveal the city's deep historical legacy and architectural influence. After our tour we will have a traditional lunch in 13th century stone cellar vaults right at the foot of Uppsala Cathedral, this is one of Sweden's oldest restaurant premises. Then we make the journey back to Stockholm where you have the afternoon and evening free to explore and find some dinner. Overnight Stockholm. (B,L)

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Day 3 - This morning we make our way to just outside the city and to Skansen, the world's oldest Open-Air Museum. While here we will take a Sweden Through the Ages Guided Tour that will show us what life was like in the past. Skansen is beautifully located on Royal Djurgården and offers spectacular views over all of Stockholm. This is also Sweden in miniature with 150 farms and dwellings from different parts of the country disassembled and transported here. Swedish traditions such as Midsummer, Walpurgis Night, and Lucia are celebrated at Skansen.We will take a peek inside Skansen’s buildings and farmsteads, and explore living conditions in the countryside and in the city, for rich and poor, in the north and in the south. We will discover life in the city and the countryside, the differences between rich and poor, or living conditions in the north and south of Sweden. After our tour we gather for a Fika, a Traditional Swedish Smorgasboard. This afternoon we take an overnight ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki, Finland. Enjoy diverse onboard services, including shops and restaurants, a real casino atmosphere, live music and shows, and the relaxing Sunflower Oasis Spa with saunas. Dining is one of the highlights on board. Enjoy seasonal treats from lavish buffets to fine dining restaurants, or grab a quick bite at a café – there’s something for every taste. Overnight at Sea. (B,L)

 

Day 4 - This morning we wake up in Helsinki where  a new adventure awaits us in the Finnish Capitol. We will depart the ship mid morning and immediately set off on Walking Tour with Helsinki Cathedral and Market Square. We will begin in Stockman Square next to the blacksmith statues. Here we learn about the city’s transformation from a small coastal town into Finland’s capital while walking through neoclassical architecture and open squares. We then continue toward Market Square to experience the lively waterfront atmosphere, local stalls, and views over the Baltic Sea. Next we make our way to Uspenski Cathedral, the striking red-brick Orthodox landmark overlooking the harbor. Along the way, our guide will provide historical context, cultural insights, and architectural explanations in a well-paced route designed for easy walking. Those who know me will not be surprised that I am including a Scandinavian Style Afternoon Tea following our walking tour. After tea we will get settled into our accommodation and then you will have some time to explore Helsinki on your own before with gather for dinner. Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, located on the southern coast along the Gulf of Finland in the Uusimaa region. It is a delight to explore on foot and have a cup of coffee. The Finns drink more coffee per person than any nation on earth and they pride themselves on their coffee. Dinner and Overnight Helsinki. (B,L,D)

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Day 5 - This morning we make our way to Porvoo, the second oldest town in Finland and is best known as one of Finland's most picturesque medieval towns, famous for its preserved wooden architecture and cultural heritage. While here we will have a Guided Tour of Old Town which is like stepping back in time with its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and captivating Cathedral. A true hidden gem, it’s one of Finland’s most picturesque towns, and our local guide will give us insider stories on its rich history and traditions. It’s a morning filled with history—presented in an engaging way that’s far from a textbook lesson! Our guide will walk us through the less explored paths of Porvoo, sharing anecdotes, fun facts, and even comparisons between Helsinki’s modern vibes and Porvoo’s charming, old-world atmosphere.It is also known for its restaurant and cholatieries, so chocolate must be on todays itinerary. This afternoon after we settle in for lunch in a charming cafe we will stop ats Brundberg's Old Town Shop where you will be met by shelves overflowing with a selection of popular sweets: kisses, truffle, liquorice, caramel toffee, handmade chocolate, marmalade candy and much more. We will also visit the Little Chocolate Factory which produces award-winning handmade chocolates and see how chocolate is produced in a small scale. Once back in Helsinki you will have the evening to explore and then find some dinner on your own. Overnight Helskinki. (B,L)

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Day 6 - This morning we will have a Secrets of Suomenlinna Guided Tour. Situated on a group of islands off Helsinki, Suomenlinna was built during the Swedish era as a maritime fortress and a base for the Archipelago Fleet. Work on the fortress began in 1748. The work was supervised by the Swedish Admiral Augustin Eherensvärd (1710-1772), who adapted Vauban’s theories to the very special geographical features of the region. The landscape and the architecture of the fortress have been shaped by several historic events. It has served to defend three different sovereign states over the years: the Kingdom of Sweden, the Russian Empire and most recently the Republic of Finland. Once back in the city we will stop for you to find some lunch to do some shopping or just take a long farewell to lovely Helsinki. Another opportunity for a great cup of coffee before we take an late afternoon ferry to Tallinn. Than we gather to take a 2 hours ferry across the Baltic Sea to Tallinn. We will settle into our Business Class Lounge seats for a smooth ride across the sea and have a late dinner when we get to Tallinn. Dinner and Overnight Tallinn. (B,D)

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Day 7 - This morning we wake up in Tallin and after breakfast we depart the ship to begin our day in Estonia’s capital with its collage of narrow cobblestone streets and red-roofed buildings. To get a good feel of the city we will have a story driven Guided Walking Tour with medieval legends and modern life related by by our engaging local. We will visit iconic viewpoints without the rush and time to snap some perfect photos. Our guide will unlock hidden corners unlocked as we discover unexpected alleys, quirky statues, and secret nooks with the city’s playful side revealed. During the tour our guide will share personal recommendations for cafés, hidden gems, and must-see spots for after the tour. And yes, I did find a wonderful place for Afternoon Tea in Tallinn. After tea we will walk up Toompea Hill to visit the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and take in panoramic views of the city's red rooftops and spires from the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms and visit the famous Song Festival Grounds, where the independent spirit of Estonians has been celebrated since 1988, when 300,000 people sang their way to the beginnings of independence from the Soviet Union. On our way home we will stop by Raeapteek, one of Europe's oldest continually operating pharmacies (dating back to 1422), which features a small medical history collection. Overnight Tallinn. (B,L)

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Day 8 - As we are just about half way through the tour you will have then entire day to yourself just relaxing or taking in more of the sites and sights of the city. Located about halfway between Stockholm and St. Petersburg, Tallinn is both Nordic- and Russian-influenced, and a visit here gives you some insight into this proudly unique and resilient nation. Tallinn's mostly intact city wall includes 26 watchtowers, each topped by a pointy red roof. Baroque and choral music ring out from its old Lutheran churches while below the steeples and towers, the Old Town is chockablock with inviting shops and restaurants. Tallinn once consisted of two feuding medieval towns. The Old Town was an independent city, a Hanseatic trading center filled with German, Danish, and Swedish merchants who hired Estonians to do their menial labor. A walk to the central square will reveal these medieval merchant traders' homes, warehouses and offices, featuring delightful touches from the Hanseatic Golden Age. The Town Hall Square which is the focal point of the Old Town, has been a marketplace through the centuries, and still retains many of these fine old buildings. You may want to stop at Tallinn’s oldest operating cafe (open since 1864) with vintage wood-paneled interiors and an adjoining marzipan museum room. Get rested up for the second half of the tour. Overnight Tallinn. (B)

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Day 9 - The end of the day will find us in the seaside town of Pärnu, but not before a stop or two. Our first stop is Paide, the historic heart of Estonia, located right in Järva County. Known for its medieval roots, limestone architecture, and central position, it makes a great stop for our journey south. Paide town was named after the limestone (paekivi and paas in the Estonian language) and the town celebrates its special relationship with limestone through unique lime stone sculptures: The best known limestone sculptures in Paide are 'hitchhiker located in the town border, the 'Limestone Symphony' on Kitsas street, and 'Four kings' marking the place where four Estonian kings were executed before the historic Jüriöö riot. Next we visit Põltsamaa Wine Cellar and Restaurant for a gourmet lunch and wine tasting. We will taste 5 Estonian wines paired with daily dishes of the Baltic German noblemen who lived in Põltsamaa. These dishes are Perch balls with baked potatotes, salad and sauce, stewed chicken with cauliflower and Apple pie. Then we continue on to Pärnu to get checked into our accommodation before dinner. Pärnu is Estonia's most popular summer holiday destination is known for its long sandy beach, restaurants, cocktail bars, spas, and relaxed, laid-back vibes. Dinner and Overnight Pärnu. (B,L,D)

 

 

Day 10 - This morning on our way to Riga we stop at Rannametsa vaatetorn, a beautiful, easy-to-enjoy nature spot with a wooden boardwalk, forest and bog trails, and a scenic wooden tower offering wide views over the swamp, sea, and treetops. It is about a 10 minute walk from the parking lot to the tower, but the observation tower itself requires climbing steep wooden stairs to get the best views at the top. Then we make our way to Salguda after crossing the border into Latvia. Sigulda is a picturesque town in central Latvia located about 40 miles northeast of Riga in the scenic Gauja River Valley. Often called the 'Switzerland of Vidzeme' or 'Latvian Switzerland' due to its steep sandstone cliffs and wooded ravines, it is the heart of Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest and oldest national park. You can find some lunch here and do some exploring before we visit Gutman's Cave, the largest cave in the Baltics shrouded in legends and permeated with ancient energy. The cave was formed from the yellow-brown sandstone rock of the Gauja river bank; its formation is due to a millennium-long interaction between the river and an underground spring. One legend has it that in ancient times the cave was home to a good man who used the water of the spring to heal people. The cave’s name is derived from the German phrase 'gut Mann', which means 'good man resulting in the belief that the spring has healing properties. We then make our way to Riga to get checked into our accommodation before dinner. Latvia’s capital, Riga, with its art nouveau architecture is known for its appealing Old Town and the odd sculptures adorning its old buildings making it delightful to explore on foot. Dinner and Overnight Riga. (B,D)

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Day 11 - Riga is the capital, largest city, and cultural heart of Latvia and home to almost 600,00 residents. Situated on the Gulf of Riga at the mouth of the Daugava River, it serves as the political, economic, and transport center of the Baltic States. The Old Town called Vecrīga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and the iconic Gothic-and-Renaissance House of the Blackheads on Town Hall Square. Riga boasts one of the world's largest collections of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) buildings, particularly concentrated along streets like Alberta iela. It is also home to one of Europe's largest indoor markets housed inside five historic WWI Zeppelin hangars. The best way to discover the real soul of Riga is on a private walking tour through its bustling streets and hidden corners. Whether you’re wandering through iconic landmarks like the Freedom Monument or exploring the quieter, lesser-known spots only the locals know, this tour offers a perfect blend of classic and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Then we embrace the finer things in life with a Deliciously Chic Afternoon Tea with a Latvian Flair. We will avour a curated array of seasonally-inspired pastries, delicate cakes and freshly baked scones accompanied by a choice of premium tea or aromatic coffee, along with a glass of bubbly. Dinner on your own this evening. Overnight Riga. (B,L)

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Day 12 - Today we have a long day as we make our way from Riga and travel across the countryside to the Lithuanian seaport of Klaipeda with a few stops along the way. Our first stop will be Jelgava which sits at the meeting point of the Lielupe and Driksa rivers. The city’s riverside promenades are beautifully maintained, offering walking paths, small docks, and scenic viewpoints. We will take the opportunity to stretch our legs and have a look around before moving on to the Hill of Crosses situated near the northern city of Siauliai in Lithuania. The Hill of Crosses stands tall amidst vast farmland, adorned with over 100,000 crosses of various shapes and sizes. From intricate metal crosses to massive wooden ones, this site, also known as Kryziu Kalnas, serves as both a pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Lithuanian resilience during the challenging years of Soviet dominance. We will stop to find some lunch in Siauliai beofre continuing on to Klaipeda. Once we ere in Klaipeda’s with its narrow streets and merchant houses we get checked in and settled into our accommodation before gathering for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Klaipeda. (B,D)

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Day 13- Klaipeda, is Lithuania’s third-largest city and its only major seaport, situated on the Baltic Sea coast where the Danė River flows into the Curonian Lagoon. Historically known as Memel, it has a distinct German and Prussian architectural heritage—featuring timber-framed (fachwerk) houses and straight, grid-like streets—which sets it apart from the rest of the country. Arguably the most historically rich Lithuanian city, its atmosphere still reflects its past as the northernmost port of the Prussian empire. You may want to take a stroll along the newly renovated promenade or follow the trail of small sculptures discovering everything from erotically charged mermaids to cute little wish bestowing mice, and even a creepy phantom! You will have the morning free to explore before we meet up and make our way to Nida to find some lunch. Situated on the Curonian, the resort town of Nida is a popular tourist destination in Lithuania. It is a small town, with only 1,650 residents but has developed as one of the most popular and most visited places in the Baltic States. The history of Nida can be traced back to the 15th century AD when German people established it. Up until the year 1945, the town was recognized as a part of Prussia. You will have time to explore this delightful fishing village with brightly painted wooden houses which is a refuge for artists and writers before we make our back to our accommodation in Klaipeda where you will have the evening free to find dinner. Overnight Klaipeda. (B,L)

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Day 14 - This morning we make our way to Kaunas with a stop along the way at Rietavas, a historic town located on the Jūra River in the Samogitia region of Western Lithuania. We will stop here for a leg stretch and then continue our journey. We will stop for lunch at an authentic Lithuanian Tavern before visiting the Open Air Museum of Lithuania for a Guided Tour. The museum is one of the largest ethnographic open-air museums in Europe and stretches across almost 500 acres. The museum was established on the picturesque shores of Kaunas Lagoon in Rumšiškės in 1966. The exhibitions at the museum are intended to introduce the ethnographic regions of Lithuania, Dzūkija (Dainava), Aukštaitija (Highlands), Suvalkija (Sudovia), Žemaitija (Samogitia) and Lithuania Minor, as they looked at the end of the 18th century and the first half of the 20th century. We then continue to Kaunas with a population of 300,000 inhabitants, it is the second largest city of Lithuania. When Kaunas sought to become a modern European city, architects started to design and build houses in the style of modernism – in German called the Bauhaus – which was avant-garde in Europe at that time. Today, this legacy remains, and design and architecture are still the main driving sectors of the city’s creative economy with white Gothic Town Hall called the White Swan, the Gothic-style Vytautas Church, built for Franciscan monks and foreign merchants, and Perkunas House, a late 15th century trading house built by Hanseatic merchants and later sold to the Jesuits. Dinner and Overnight Kaunas.​ (B,L,D)​

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Day 15 - This morning we make our wau to Vilnius, the capital and largest city of Lithuania, located at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers. It was founded in 1323 by Grand Duke Gediminas and historically served as the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Famous for its medieval, Baroque Old Town, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It is also home to the historic Vilnius University, founded in 1579. While here we will have a Guided Walk of the Old Town, the Castle Territory and Uzupis (considered the bohemian district of the city). You will hear intriguing stories about medieval life, living conditions in the castle and town, and discover hidden places like courtyards and secret spots. Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, boasting 25 churches, two castles, medieval streets, an old university campus from the 16th century, a city wall with the Gate of Dawn, and medieval Jewish quarters that served as ghettos during World War II. Uzupis, the district of artists, is one of the most captivating locations in the city. An artist community declared it a 'free state' from Lithuania on April 1, 1997, now celebrated as Uzupis Independence Day. We will delve into the district's galleries, artists, constitution, and sculptures. After our tour we will settle in for a Lithuanian Style Afternoon Tea in the Grand Hotel Vilnius before getting checked into our accommodation. This evening you will have time to explore on your own. Overnight Vilnius. (B,L)

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Day 16 - You will have some time on your own this morning in Vilnius before we have a 10 Tastings of Vilnius Tour. Get ready to discover the best of Vilnius through its delicious cuisine! This food tour combines local flavors and cultural stories, all told by a passionate host who knows their way around the city's culinary scene. With 10 tastings on the menu—both sweet and savory—you're in for an unforgettable foodie experience that will leave you feeling full of both delicious bites and historical gems. Savor the famous cepelinai, unique dishes like sureliai, and more, while uncovering the rich heritage of this vibrant city.  While this is a food tour, it’s also a feast for your curiosity. Between tasting stops, discover Vilnius’ iconic landmarks like the Cathedral and Old Town, and its more than just food—it’s a deep dive into the heart of Vilnius culture, where both cuisine and history go hand in hand. Our final dinner together will take place family-run restaurant, where we hear about and taste the culinary history of Lithuania dating back to the Middle Ages — authentic, refined, and surprisingly rich. Refined Lithuanian cuisine inspired by history.

Farewell Dinner  and Overnight Vilnius.

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Day 17 - This morning we get you to Vilnius Airport at the time that works best for your flight.

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This morning we make our way out of the city and to Lahemaa National Park, home to the best that Estonian nature has to offer. It is located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland and covers Estonia's northernmost capes and islands. Here you will find lush native forests, wetlands stretching to the horizon, and both rocky and sandy beaches. Our main stop will be Viru Bog which has been made accessible by a dedicated boardwalk, and the bog's observation tower provides visitors with beautiful views of the bog. The trail alternates between forest trails, former sand dunes, ridges, and spacious bog fields. The just over 2 mile long path is marked with information boards that tell the story of the bog's formation, its importance in nature, and information about bog plants such as moor grass and cloudberries. We will allow enough time for anybody who may want to walk the whole length. On the way back to Tallinn we will stop for lunch and then also at Jägala Waterfall, a waterfall in the lower course of the Jägala River, approximately 2 1/2 miles before the river flows into the Gulf of Finland. The waterfall is approximately 25 feet high and more than 150 feet wide. It is the widest natural waterfall in Estonia. Once back in Tallinn you can find some dinner on your own. 

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