Uncover the mesmerizing beauty of the Baltic States on these epic road trips. Discover key stops, route details, and perfect places to stay with your camper van.
The Baltic States, comprised of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, are a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Nestled in the northeastern corner of Europe, these three countries offer a unique blend of modernity and tradition. What better way to experience this region’s charm than embarking on an unforgettable road trip with your trusty camper van? Here, we present five top Baltic States road trips, each promising a kaleidoscope of experiences, from ancient castles and pristine beaches to charming villages and dense forests.
1. The Baltic Capital Circuit: Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn
Route: Vilnius (Lithuania) – Riga (Latvia) – Tallinn (Estonia)
Total Distance: Approximately 680 kilometers (423 miles)
Duration: 7-10 days
Explore the vibrant capitals of the Baltic States, each with its unique character and charm.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Begin your journey in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius. Known for its stunning Baroque architecture and a UNESCO-listed Old Town, Vilnius is a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new. Park your camper van at one of the city’s campgrounds or parking areas, and spend your days strolling through cobbled streets, visiting historic churches, and savoring Lithuanian cuisine at cozy cafes.
Must-Visit Stops in Vilnius:
- Vilnius Old Town: Explore the heart of the city, a maze of narrow streets lined with beautiful buildings.
- Gediminas Castle: Hike up to this historic castle for panoramic views of Vilnius.
- Trakai Island Castle: Just a short drive from Vilnius, this fairy-tale castle is surrounded by a serene lake.
Riga, Latvia
As you cross into Latvia, your next stop is Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States. Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, lively markets, and a thriving cultural scene. The city also boasts beautiful parks and a vibrant nightlife. Find a campsite near Riga and take public transport or your camper van to explore the city.
Must-Visit Stops in Riga:
- Old Riga: Wander through the well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Riga Central Market: Sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs in Europe’s largest market.
- Art Nouveau District: Admire the ornate facades of buildings in this unique neighborhood.
Tallinn, Estonia
The final leg of this capital circuit takes you to Tallinn, Estonia’s picturesque capital. Tallinn’s Old Town is like something out of a fairy tale, with its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and towering spires. There are several campgrounds near Tallinn, making it easy to explore the city.
Must-Visit Stops in Tallinn:
- Tallinn Old Town: Lose yourself in the medieval magic of this UNESCO-listed area.
- Kadriorg Palace: Explore the elegant palace and its surrounding park.
- Seaplane Harbour: Visit the fascinating maritime museum housed in a historic seaplane hangar.
2. The Baltic Coast Expedition: From Klaipeda to Pärnu
Route: Klaipeda (Lithuania) – Palanga (Lithuania) – Liepaja (Latvia) – Ventspils (Latvia) – Pärnu (Estonia)
Total Distance: Approximately 370 kilometers (230 miles)
Duration: 4-6 days
Discover the stunning Baltic coastline, with its sandy beaches, charming resort towns, and historic ports.
Klaipeda and Palanga, Lithuania
Start your coastal adventure in Klaipeda, Lithuania’s third-largest city and a major port. Klaipeda is known for its maritime heritage and a charming old town. Park your camper van at a campsite near the city and explore its attractions. Don’t miss a visit to Palanga, a nearby resort town famous for its sandy beaches and the beautiful Palanga Botanical Garden.
Must-Visit Stops in Klaipeda and Palanga:
- Klaipeda Old Town: Explore the historic center and its maritime museums.
- Curonian Spit: Take a ferry to this UNESCO-listed sand dune peninsula with pristine beaches.
- Amber Museum: Discover the world of amber in Palanga’s Amber Museum.
Liepaja and Ventspils, Latvia
Crossing into Latvia, your next destinations are Liepaja and Ventspils, both historic port cities with unique attractions. Liepaja is known for its sandy Blue Flag beach and the historic Karosta Naval Port, where you can spend the night in a former military prison. Ventspils, on the other hand, is famous for its colorful cow sculptures and the Livonian Order Castle.
Must-Visit Stops in Liepaja and Ventspils:
- Liepaja Beach: Enjoy the Baltic Sea and perhaps catch a concert at the beachfront Seaside Park.
- Karosta Naval Port: Experience a night in a Cold War-era prison and take a guided tour.
- Ventspils Adventure Park: Have a family-friendly adventure with various activities and a rope course.
Pärnu, Estonia
Your coastal expedition concludes in Pärnu, often referred to as the “Summer Capital of Estonia.” Pärnu is a charming resort town with a rich history, beautiful parks, and a lively beach promenade. Find a campsite near Pärnu and spend your days relaxing on the beach, exploring the town’s spas, or enjoying a round of golf.
Must-Visit Stops in Pärnu:
- Pärnu Beach: Bask in the sun, swim in the sea, or take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore.
- Pärnu Old Town: Discover the town’s historic architecture and cozy cafes.
- Pärnu Mud Baths: Experience the healing properties of the local mud in the town’s mud baths.
3. The Baltic Lakes Route: Lakes, Forests, and Serenity
Route: Vilnius (Lithuania) – Aukštaitija National Park (Lithuania) – Tartu (Estonia) – Lake Peipus (Estonia/Russia) – Cēsis (Latvia) – Gauja National Park (Latvia) – Riga (Latvia)
Total Distance: Approximately 580 kilometers (360 miles)
Duration: 7-10 days
Escape to the tranquil beauty of the Baltic Lakes region, where pristine waters and lush forests await.
Aukštaitija National Park, Lithuania
Commence your journey in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, and head northeast to Aukštaitija National Park. This national park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with over 120 lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. Set up camp near one of the lakes and spend your days hiking, canoeing, and fishing.
Must-Visit Stops in Aukštaitija National Park:
- Lake Plateliai: The largest lake in the park, perfect for water activities.
- Ginučiai Water Mill: Explore this beautifully preserved watermill and its surroundings.
- Puntukas Stone: Visit one of Lithuania’s largest glacial erratic boulders.
Tartu and Lake Peipus, Estonia
Crossing into Estonia, your next stop is Tartu, the country’s second-largest city and a center of culture and education. Explore Tartu’s historic Old Town and visit the prestigious University of Tartu. From there, drive east to Lake Peipus, one of Europe’s largest freshwater lakes, which shares its shoreline with Russia. It’s a unique spot to park your camper van and enjoy serene lake views.
Must-Visit Stops in Tartu and Lake Peipus:
- University of Tartu: Explore the historic university and its botanical gardens.
- Lake Peipus Beaches: Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the view of the vast lake.
- Alatskivi Castle: Visit this neo-Gothic castle on the shores of Lake Peipus.
Cēsis and Gauja National Park, Latvia
Continuing west, you’ll arrive in Cēsis, a picturesque town in the heart of Latvia. Cēsis is known for its medieval Old Town, a stunning castle, and beautiful parks. Park your camper van near Cēsis and explore the town’s historical sites. Then, venture into Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest national park, known for its rugged landscapes and the Gauja River.
Must-Visit Stops in Cēsis and Gauja National Park:
- Cēsis Castle: Explore the well-preserved castle and its museum.
- Gutmanis Cave: Visit the largest cave in the Baltics, located in Gauja National Park.
- Turaida Castle: Discover this impressive medieval castle and its surroundings.
Riga, Latvia
Your journey through the Baltic Lakes region concludes in Riga, Latvia’s capital, which you might remember from the Baltic Capital Circuit. Take this opportunity to explore any sites you missed on your first visit or simply enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere once more.
4. The Baltic Historical Trail: Medieval Towns and Castles
Route: Kaunas (Lithuania) – Kėdainiai (Lithuania) – Kernavė (Lithuania) – Rundāle (Latvia) – Cēsis (Latvia) – Sigulda (Latvia) – Pärnu (Estonia)
Total Distance: Approximately 440 kilometers (273 miles)
Duration: 5-7 days
Travel back in time as you explore the rich medieval history of the Baltic States, dotted with charming towns and magnificent castles.
Kaunas and Kėdainiai, Lithuania
Commence your historical journey in Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city. Kaunas is steeped in history, with a well-preserved Old Town and a stunning castle overlooking the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. After exploring Kaunas, make your way to Kėdainiai, a quaint town known for its well-preserved wooden architecture.
Must-Visit Stops in Kaunas and Kėdainiai:
- Kaunas Castle: Visit the medieval fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- St. George’s Church in Kėdainiai: Admire the intricate wooden architecture of this historic church.
Kernavė, Lithuania
Next on your historical trail is Kernavė, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the first capital of Lithuania. Kernavė is known for its extensive hillfort complex and archaeological discoveries dating back to the medieval period. Spend your time exploring the archaeological sites and enjoying the picturesque Neris River valley.
Must-Visit Stops in Kernavė:
- Kernavė Archaeological Site: Discover the ancient hillforts and burial mounds.
- Kernavė Museum-Reserve: Learn more about the region’s history and archaeology.
Rundāle and Cēsis, Latvia
Crossing into Latvia, you’ll encounter Rundāle, home to one of the most magnificent palaces in the Baltic States. Rundāle Palace is a Baroque masterpiece with stunning gardens that rival those of Versailles. From there, continue to Cēsis, a town already featured on the Baltic Lakes Route, known for its medieval charm and historic sites.
Must-Visit Stops in Rundāle and Cēsis:
- Rundāle Palace: Explore the opulent palace and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Cēsis Castle: Discover the medieval castle and its museum.
Sigulda, Latvia, and Pärnu, Estonia
Your historical journey concludes in Sigulda, often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” due to its stunning natural landscapes. Sigulda is famous for its medieval castles, including the Turaida Castle, which you might remember from the Baltic Lakes Route. After exploring Sigulda, head back to Pärnu to relax and reflect on your historical road trip.
5. The Baltic Nature Odyssey: From Forests to Coastal Dunes
Route: Šiauliai (Lithuania) – Hill of Crosses (Lithuania) – Curonian Spit (Lithuania) – Cape Kolka (Latvia) – Riga (Latvia)
Total Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers (248 miles)
Duration: 4-6 days
Immerse yourself in the diverse natural beauty of the Baltic region, from sacred hills to pristine coastal dunes.
Šiauliai and the Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
Begin your nature odyssey in Šiauliai, a city in northern Lithuania. From Šiauliai, make a pilgrimage to the Hill of Crosses, one of the most iconic and spiritually significant sites in Lithuania. The hill is covered with thousands of crosses, each placed there by pilgrims seeking blessings and protection.
Must-Visit Stops in Šiauliai and the Hill of Crosses:
- Hill of Crosses: Explore this unique site and witness the spiritual atmosphere.
Curonian Spit, Lithuania
From Šiauliai, drive to the Curonian Spit, a narrow sand dune peninsula separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for nature lovers, with pristine beaches, drifting sand dunes, and dense pine forests. Camp at one of the designated areas and explore the unique landscape.
Must-Visit Stops on the Curonian Spit:
- Parnidis Dune: Climb the dune for breathtaking views of the lagoon and sea.
- Nida: Visit this charming village known for its colorful wooden houses.
Cape Kolka, Latvia
Leaving Lithuania behind, head to Cape Kolka in Latvia, where the waters of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga meet. Cape Kolka is a place of natural wonder, with rugged coastlines, serene beaches, and lush forests. This is a great spot to camp and enjoy the pristine beauty of the Baltic coast.
Must-Visit Stops at Cape Kolka:
- Cape Kolka Lighthouse: Visit the historic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views.
- Kolka Fishing Village: Explore the picturesque fishing village and its surroundings.
Riga, Latvia
Your nature odyssey concludes in Riga, Latvia’s vibrant capital city. As previously mentioned in the Baltic Capital Circuit and the Baltic Historical Trail, Riga offers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Spend your final days exploring the city or relaxing on the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea.
Camper Van Accommodation and Tips
Throughout your Baltic road trip, finding suitable places to park your camper van and spend the night is crucial. Here are some tips and recommendations for camper van accommodation:
- Campsites: The Baltic States have a network of campsites, some with excellent facilities like electricity, water, and sewage disposal. Research campsites in advance and make reservations if necessary, especially during peak tourist season.
- Wild Camping: In Lithuania and Latvia, it’s often permitted to camp in remote areas, such as forests and near lakes, as long as you follow Leave No Trace principles. Check local regulations and ask for permission if needed.
- Camper Van Services: Many petrol stations in the Baltic States offer services for camper vans, including waste disposal and freshwater refill.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety when parking for the night. Choose well-lit and populated areas, lock your van, and be cautious of your surroundings.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have appropriate travel and vehicle insurance for your camper van adventure.
- Language: While English is widely spoken in urban areas, learning a few basic phrases in Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian can be helpful, especially in more rural regions.
- Currency: The currency in Lithuania is the Euro (EUR), in Latvia, it’s the Latvian Lat (LVL), and in Estonia, it’s the Euro (EUR). Make sure to have cash on hand for smaller purchases and remote areas.
Touring theBaltic States
Embarking on a camper van road trip through the Baltic States is a journey through time and nature. Each of these five road trip routes offers a unique perspective on this culturally rich and naturally diverse region. From the medieval charm of historic towns to the pristine beauty of the Baltic coast, the Baltic States have something to captivate every traveler. So, pack your bags, fuel up your camper van, and set out on an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. The Baltic beauty awaits your exploration.