Lithuania/Latvia/Estonia
Best of the Baltics: Treasures of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania
Program No. 23225RJ
On a comprehensive journey to the three Baltic capitals, learn about Tallinn, Vilnius and Riga’s tumultuous histories and experience the cultural gems this region has to offer.
Participant Reviews
Based on 57 Reviews
SHOWING
Absolutely wonderful trip. Learned so much about a part of the world that was not discussed much when I was in school. Baltics are certainly up to date countries despite their quite recent statehood since the fall of the USSR.
Clean, wonderful roads, efficient and easy to use transportation systems in all three countries. Outstanding lectures!
— Review left November 8, 2025
This was one of the best of 36 RS programs I have attended over the past 27 years. Put it on your bucket list!!
— Review left November 7, 2025
I really enjoyed the Baltics trip. The group size of 19 plus leader was good, and the destinations were exactly what I wanted. I want to say first of all that Kristine was the absolute best tour leader/guide I've ever had--on Road Scholar trips or any others (and I've had about a dozen.) She was truly the perfect leader--knowledgeable, kind, unflappable and very well organized. Overall, it was a very interesting trip and well done.
— Review left November 2, 2025
Great guide, great and varied program about an area often neglected by tourists. We came away filled with admiration for the hardy, resilient Baltic peoples and all that they have achieved in sometimes difficult historical circumstances.
— Review left October 31, 2025
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our recent “Best of the Baltics” trip. We gained new insights into the history and culture of this beautiful part of the world, and we now have a much greater appreciation of how these remarkable, small countries play such a vital, strategic role at the present time. Our guides and lecturers were first rate. Our only (wee) criticism was that the tour was too short!
— Review left October 25, 2025
Excellent opportunity to gain appreciation of the Baltic states, and the very real challenges they face in today's world, based on their long history and critical geopolitical location.
— Review left October 24, 2025
definitely recommend this program. be ready for rain and cooler weather, very fall like for mid west travelers, but there were very sunny days sprinkled in and beautiful fall colors and fewer travelers
— Review left October 19, 2025
An extremely competent guide with a joy for life. She was always checking in with each person about their experience. She had a great memory for times etc. I learned so much about what these countries had been through during and after communism under Soviet occupation. The expert lectures on the history of Estonia, the Latvian "music" ethnography and the Lithuanian professor and CEO of a "think tank" (THE GOOD THE BAD AND The UGLY [about Ukraine war]) were totally engaging and taught me so much. I enjoyed all the sites we visited and the excellent bus driver who never had to break suddenly due to his careful driving. There were sufficient stops on the 2 long days of travel during which we visited sights or had bathroom breaks. The visit to a goat farm run by a woman with new puppies on the property was a highlight. She provided dishes of at least 10 different kinds of goat cheese on platter for us to enjoy. The Hill of Crosses was amazing. The dance performances, in which we sometimes participated were fun. The fresh veges and fruit made for healthy meals. The hotel in TALLINN was conveniently located to the OLD TOWN and a modern mall. There was sufficient free time to explore on our own or dine on our own in Riga, which for us, included a boat ride through a park and out onto the sea. The architectural tours both outside and inside a museum were fascinating and had great guides. The castle in Vilnius also included a tour with some time on our own. The walk to the castle was over a body of water. All in all, just another fine example of the 27 great trips I have taken with Road Scholar.
— Review left October 17, 2025
This was my first Road Scholar trip. I was impressed with the professionalism of the operation. The schedule was busy with a variety of events and activities. Our tour leader, Elina Ozolina was excellent. She communicated well, keeping everyone up to date on the itinerary. She was passionate about the Baltics and was able to add personal insight that enhanced the tour.
I do have two items of constructive criticism. First, part of experiencing a culture is eating their food. Our group meals were fixed, short of a special diet, we all ate the same thing. That results in a meal choice with broad appeal. It would be good to allow those of us who are more adventurous to select a more local set of dishes.
Secondly, the night before our departure was filled with a long, 4 course, meal and a dance performance. Consider the situation. You have an older group that has had a busy itinerary for over a week. Some people had to be at the airport before 4 am and others with a 5 am airport arrival time. We did not arrive back at our hotel until around 9:30 and that’s with skipping tea and coffee. This leaves little time for packing and sleep for those of us flying early on flights booked by Road Scholar. In my opinion, we need to be back at our hotel by 8 pm so we fly home with more than a couple of hours of sleep.
— Review left October 17, 2025
The Baltic countries are historically and politically fascinating. And they are not an extraordinarily popular European destination, so they are not over-run with tourists and cruise ship tours. But they are definitely worth a visit! They are quite safe and you can drink the water!
— Review left October 16, 2025
I was delighted by my exploration of Tallin, Riga and Vilnius and the roads between, thanks much to the educational components, tour guides, and our most excellent group leader. I certainly did not expect to be so charmed by an economist's discussion on Latvia and a goat farmer in Lithuania.
— Review left October 15, 2025
Overall this was a great program and I learned a lot about all three countries. I had no real knowledge of the Soviet times and Russification of the Baltics. Elina was an excellent tour leader and added so much to the experience. The only things I would change are more time in Vilnius and meal choices at least a few days.
— Review left October 9, 2025
This unique program provided insight into the history of three countries that I had previously not studied. There is much beauty and richness here that is not easily described, but you will come away with a new appreciation for what the people have endured and the things they have achieved because of the trials they have met in their lives.
— Review left October 8, 2025
This may be my favorite trip! All 3 countries were a delightful surprise and we couldn’t have asked for a better group leader. I learned so much and fell in love with these peoples…would love to do it all over again
— Review left October 4, 2025
Great trip! Guide was very knowledgeable and helpful; other participants were interesting and fun to hang out with; the destinations we visited were fascinating. I learned so much about the history and current status of the Baltic States. Even the weather was perfect.
Highly recommend this trip!
— Review left September 22, 2025
Great Bang for the Buck. Interesting perspectives, delicious food, historic city centers, great participants and helpful tour guide. Didn't really know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised it was better than advertised.
— Review left September 13, 2025
What an excellent trip this was. Inese was the very best guide- her insights, her cheery disposition and her concern for the experience for everyone made it that much better. Marcias ( apology if this was misspelled) as the driver made us all feel well taken care of and in the best hands for the narrow roads.
The hotels, the sights were all the best. But even better was the local experts. Their willingness to share not only their knowledge of the area- but also sharing their insights and willingness to answer questions was a highlight of the trip.
As this was my first trip with Roads scholar I did not know what to expect- and I was delighted. I will take another trip without hesitation
— Review left August 20, 2025
This was a fascinating trip. It is about a part of the world that I realized I did not know much about until I went on this trip. I feel like it is very important to learn about the culture of the Baltic States.
— Review left August 19, 2025
Superb program packed with significant information on the history, economy, politics and culture of three very interesting countries from highly knowledgeable local experts, a stand-out Group Leader (Inese), and opportunities to explore areas of interest on our own. An excellent look at 3 lesser known countries -- don't miss this opportunity!
— Review left July 30, 2025
This is a good choice if you want to learn more about the Baltic countries and their past and recent history as it pertains to their relatively recent independence.
— Review left June 25, 2025
We had an excellent experience on the Baltics Program -- all expectations met and more. Elina Ozolina, was all we hope for in an RS group leader -- expert on culture, history, and politics and able to bring a passionate personal perspective to all aspects. This was a chance to learn about a fascinating small, less well-known, but critical region, with an important role in current geo-politics.
— Review left June 20, 2025
Three beautiful cities with so much to offer including history, museums, and architecture. During unscheduled time I was able to visit unusual museums, ballet, and opera.
— Review left June 20, 2025
It's very interesting to visit the Baltic states and learn about their long history, as well as their struggle to get free from the Soviet Union. The medieval old towns in Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius are worth visiting because they are large and very well preserved. And, the pace and variety of things that this trip does make every day interesting and fun.
— Review left June 9, 2025
The Best of the Baltics is a must see trip.It is very comprehensive and varied. Our group leader Inese was a gem! She was knowledgeable, personable, patient and kept us engaged at all times. The lecturers were top notch and tops in their fields. The local tour guides also very informative and easy to understand. There was a tour of an old Soviet underground bunker built beneath a senior center. It was constructed during the "Cold War" days. It was built as a command center in case of nuclear war. There were 2 organ concerts in churches and 2 folklore shows. The meals were varied and tasty. We had a full size motor coach with plenty of room for each participant. Our driver Marcise was terrific and was able to navigate narrow streets with ease. Of course the cities of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius were the stars of the trip. Just a note of caution, Tallinn and Riga's old towns require you to walk on cobblestones and climb steep stairs. This trip is not for those with walking limitations.
— Review left June 4, 2025
Probably the best trip I have taken with Road Scholar. Our escort was wonderful. There wasn’t one thing that I would say could be improved.
— Review left December 14, 2024
This was an intriguing tour of three countries we knew very little about. Beautiful medieval villages with a varied and often dark history and stunning countryside. Highly educational and enlightening. Do not hesitate to sign up for this trip. It will give you new insight to the past and the present of Northern Europe.
Kristina a delightful host who is proud to share her knowledge of the history, politics and artistry of the Baltic states. She is an endless fountain of information. Her private tour of the Palace of Rundale is not to be missed (better than Versailles!). Other highlights include a private tour of a Soviet Bunker, open air museums, the Hill of Crosses, folk dancing, lectures by local experts, deep insight into culture and architecture and more.
— Review left November 30, 2024
Very informative about countries that Americans know too little about. Excellent presentation on role of NATO and the EU and impact on this area. Lots of old stuff without all the tourism found in Western Europe. Very scenic, prosperous. Opera in Riga was fantastic. But vegetarians beware - food offerings limited to grilled veggies.
— Review left October 31, 2024
Fabulous comprehensive interesting educational trip with excellent food, transportation, accommodations and superb guides. Plenty of walking and stairs to keep you in shape. Changed my view of the world, plus made friends. Highly recommend- Go!
— Review left October 17, 2024
Amazing opportunity to gain a better understanding of the history of the Baltics and how that impacts their current situation. Our guide Elina was extremely knowledgeable about all three countries but more than that her personal stories and love for her country made the trip extra special. I would recommend this trip to everyone especially those who are questioning why we should support those who live so far away.
— Review left September 26, 2024
Enjoyed the 3 countries and their respective histories. The Professors were terrific and insightful. Our guide, Diaga, was personable and made sure all was in order. She was extremely well organized. I love the small size of the group (22). Loved the itinerary and the time spent in each capital. Very nice variation of museums, castles, landscapes, goat cheese experiences, dance groups and restaurants. Will look into signing up for another RS adventure. There was enough personal time to explore other restaurants, other adventures such as canal boat trips and watching the changing of the guards in Lithuania. The history as it relates to present day Ukraine and Russia was very telling. These countries have a varied, sad, but culturally luminous history that I did not know about. Thanks to RS, now I do.
— Review left September 26, 2024
After attending this program I have a much better understanding of the European political situation and the importance of NATO and the EU.
— Review left September 19, 2024
If you want to be transformed by an experience--going to the Baltics with their young democracies, transitional issues toward and against their independence and historical struggle for self-rule via the Singing Revolution will change you forever.
— Review left September 19, 2024
I highly recommend the Baltic States tour. Our group leader, as well as the instructors, were outstanding. Loved visiting the Old Towns in each city, as well as the countryside--tours were well organized and informative. My husband and I also enjoyed having free time. I especially appreciated learning about the history and culture of each area in depth. Wonderful experience/trip!
— Review left July 28, 2024
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are beautiful counties with beautiful people. It is important to expand travel to these states to get a broader perspective on Europe and to understand what it's like to live in close proximity to Russia. Our group was convivial and interested in learning, which made it very fun for us.
— Review left June 19, 2024
The three beautiful capital cities of the Baltic nations were a pleasure to visit. All three hotels were conveniently located near the cobbled streets of the Old Towns, which made it easy for independent exploration during free time, and I enjoyed having the amount of independent free time that we did on this tour. The food was very good (although sometimes too much of it). The biggest positive for me was learning all of the local history from the lecturers and the local guides; that really enhanced the experience for me, and I came away very impressed with the resiliency and success of these people and their nations. It is truly remarkable how they have come back after 50+ years of Soviet occupation. With the war in Ukraine still going on, that history is even more meaningful, and should be a lesson to all of us.
— Review left June 19, 2024
My husband , Richard, and I were on the Rhodes Scholar trip to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania from May 24th to June 4th. Our leader was Kristina Bahr-Guetina. Her knowledge, regarding the history, growth, and architecture of the countries was astounding. We came away with a solid understanding, of all that the people have endured, in order to accomplish what we witnessed. They remind us of our own country, America, in our earlier years. We have lost a lot of that pride, strength, and desire to make our country a better place. We hope that the Baltic countries continue to strive in the direction they are now and keep that pride and endurance intact. What we learned, on our journey , will remain with us for a long while. Our thanks to Rhodes Scholar and Kristina.
— Review left June 10, 2024
Baltic Treasures is a truly unique opportunity with fascinating history. This program held a lot of interest for me historically and culturally. The food was less amazing and could benefit from some attention and improvement.
— Review left June 2, 2024
The trip to the Baltic States could not be more relevant to the current political turmoil in Europe. It gave a deep dive into the past of the region and how it relates to the new independence--temporarily (we hope and believe) shattered by 20th century war and occupation. Long live the free Baltic states!
— Review left May 24, 2024
The Best of the Baltics was a marvelous experience to countries somewhat off the beaten path for most Americans. As such it attracted a unique group of learners who were inquisitive and accommodating to each other. The Director was knowledgeable and gracious. As a solo traveler, I was a little hesitant, but this experience offered more than expected to learn about Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
— Review left May 23, 2024
Do not miss this opportunity to visit three such interesting and beautiful countries! We’ll never forget this eye-opening and special experience.
— Review left November 2, 2023
I did not expect to see such modern, beautiful cities on this trip. The hotels were located near the "old town" sections which have been significantly restored and interesting to tour. We always felt safe in these cities. The lectures gave me a new understanding of the history of this part of the world and an appreciation of the struggles people endured under communism.
— Review left September 20, 2023
This tour provides an excellent overview of the Baltic region. Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius are all beautiful cities, with charming, cobble-stoned Old Towns. The lectures and guides were all excellent, and gave us a much deeper appreciation of the history, culture, politics and economics of this area. This tour is highly recommended to anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of this part of the world.
— Review left September 13, 2023
The Baltic Treasures tour was an interesting, educational, and well-paced trip. It lived up to our expectations as first-timers and we can understand more the relevancy to the current situation in Europe. The tour manager, Inese, was a caring, accommodating, and informed guide who enhanced the experience.
— Review left July 30, 2023
This trip was absolutely wonderful! I wasn’t sure what to expect but it was more than I imagined, the history of all three countries while similar in some aspects from 100+ years of occupation by multiple countries most (recently the Russians) along with the will of the people for independence and moving from a communist state to a market economy and the success achieved was remarkable. The capital cities were beautiful with the medieval architecture beautifully preserved. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are all strong supporters of Ukraine and the understanding of what independence means. I highly recommend visiting the Baltics and embracing what the charm of them has to offer.
— Review left June 23, 2023
Well done
— Review left June 22, 2023
I highly recommend this visit to the Baltics. Learning about its recent history, location, and current politics is essential to understanding the current war in Ukraine, and the role of Russia in the past and present. These countries are vibrant, fun, interesting places to visit.
— Review left June 21, 2023
My wife and I just returned from "The Best of the Baltics Tour" and found this exploration of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to be a superb experience. The Road Scholar program was well thought out and gave us an excellent taste of the three countries. Our group leader, Inese, was just a jewel! Highly recommend.
— Review left June 21, 2023
The War in the Ukraine is having a worldwide impact. Nowhere is that more so than in the Baltic countries as they strive to separate themselves from once being under Russian rule to a future as members of the EU one NATO. This tour will acquaint one with the history, culture and geo-politics of the Baltic peoples.
— Review left June 15, 2023
The Baltic States Road Scholar trip exceeded my expectations. It was smart, thoughtful, extremely well organized, educational on wide variety of levels and FUN!
— Review left June 1, 2023
I have been on many Rd Sch programs This one was an excellent learning and pertinent serious experience
— Review left October 28, 2022
The Baltics tour is a great way to see a very underappreciated corner of Europe. I gained a greater appreciation for the resiliency of the people and the challenges they have faced and continue to face. Beautiful old cities, interesting lectures, good food, and lots of free time to explore on your own and delve into special areas of interest. It was among the best trips I've had and I would encourage curious travelers to explore this beautiful region.
— Review left October 19, 2022
This is a positive in-person learning experience; it has helped me expand and deepen my view of history. I have also gained a very great appreciation for the people who have weathered that history.
— Review left September 23, 2022
This trip, The Best of the Baltics, was absolutely fabulous in every possible way. The four lectures by academics, each from 60-90 minutes, were informative and well presented, setting the tone for an incredible learning experience. The meals, all of local cuisine, exceeded expectations. I feel that I truly got a taste of the history, culture and current political situation in the Baltics. As a solo traveler, I was happy to find a nice mix of couples, solo travelers and those traveling with a friend or family member. Everyone was welcoming and friendly.
— Review left August 5, 2022
This was a great educational trip to countries that I knew very little about. The amazing history of this area was the highlight of the trip. I would highly recommend this tour of the Baltics.
— Review left July 27, 2022
Excellent trip, excellent guide, excellent lectures. All hotels were centrally located, & the balance was just right between planned excursions/meals and free-time/excursions meals. The Art Nouveau architecture in Riga is amazing.
— Review left July 11, 2022
A very interesting and beautiful part of the world, well worth visiting
— Review left July 7, 2022
This program provides a nice overview of the history and current economic and political circumstances of the Baltic states. The lectures in each country were uniformly excellent.
— Review left June 23, 2019