A border point between Latvia and Estonia; Ainazi, Latvia, April 2023

In April 2023, while I was staying in Portugal, I took a side trip to the Baltic countries for five days. This trip was a dream come true, as I had always wanted to explore this part of Europe. I flew from Lisbon to Riga, the capital of Latvia, and rented a car to begin my adventure. Riga became my home for the next few days, and I was immediately captivated by the charm and history of the city.

Riga – A Breathtaking City

Riga, with its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, was an incredible starting point for my Baltic journey. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. I explored the town hall square, admired the Riga Cathedral, and took in the breathtaking views along the Daugava River. It was hard not to fall in love with the energy of the place.

The Hill of Crosses – A Symbol of Faith in Lithuania

From Riga, I made my way to Lithuania and visited the Hill of Crosses (known in Lithuanian as Kryžių Kalnas), located near Šiauliai. This place was fascinating and strange, yet captivating in its own way. The Hill of Crosses is a pilgrimage site where thousands of crosses, large and small, have been placed by visitors over the years, symbolizing faith, hope, and resilience. As I walked around the hill, I felt a sense of reverence for the strong traditions and spirituality of the Lithuanian people.

On the way to the Hill of Crosses, I had the chance to admire the Lithuanian countryside, with its quaint villages and picturesque landscapes. The drive was scenic, with rolling fields and small towns, each with its own unique charm.

Exploring Estonia – Coastal Villages and Nordic Influence

After visiting Lithuania, I continued my journey northwards to Estonia, where I also enjoyed the freedom of traveling by car. The route was filled with beautiful sights, and I made stops in Ainaži and Treimani, two small coastal towns. Both places were quiet and peaceful, offering glimpses of the Baltic Sea and a sense of serenity.

The highlight of my trip to Estonia was visiting Parnawa, a lovely town on the coast. I spent most of the day there, enjoying its charming streets, wooden architecture, and the overall feeling of tranquility. The town felt like it had strong Nordic influences, with its traditional wooden houses and clean, minimalist designs. It was clear to me that this area had a rich historical connection to the Nordic countries, making it feel like a blend of Scandinavian and Baltic cultures.

A Delightful Stop in Liepupe Parish

On the way back to Riga, I made a stop in Liepupe parish, a rural area in Latvia. There, I had an unforgettable dinner in a traditional wooden Latvian hut, enjoying authentic Latvian cuisine. The meal was simple but delicious, and the rustic atmosphere added to the charm of the experience.

A Memorable Journey through the Baltic States

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Baltic countries—each country had its own distinct personality, but they also shared a common bond in their natural beauty, architectural styles, and warm, friendly people. The Baltic coast offered stunning landscapes, while the wooden architecture I encountered throughout my journey felt like a beautiful reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This trip only deepened my appreciation for the Baltic states, and I’m already looking forward to returning and exploring even more of this fascinating part of Europe.

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