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Overview

Enlightening adventures in a vibrant region

Bridging Eastern and Western Europe, this area’s natural resources and trading ports have been targets of landlocked states over the course of more than two millennia. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia were all behind the Iron Curtain during the time of the Soviet Union. A strong mix of cultural influences is embedded in the architecture, folklore, and cuisine of the cities we visit. 

Highlights of this trip include excursions to the medieval towns of Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn; an exploration of Trakai Island Castle by foot and private boat; and dance and musical performances rich in tradition and history. These three countries each serve as a relevant classroom for studying the present-day and future challenges surrounding Europe.

Dates

June 2–12, 2025

Duration

11 days

Price

From $8,995 per person

Trip size

40 participants

Minimum age

18 years
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Faculty leader

A different kind of classroom

With renowned Stanford faculty and scholars leading the way, every Travel/Study trip is a one-of-a-kind educational experience.

Bert Patenaude

International Relations

Bert Patenaude, who specializes in history and international relations, will discuss the history of the Baltic region in the 20th century, the emergence of the independent Baltic republics, and the influence of Baltic composers, conductors, and musicians on the world of classical music.

“Bert is a terrific professor. His lectures were very interesting and entertaining. They were presented in a clear, well-thought-out, and easy-to-follow manner.”

— Steven Vreeland, MS '82

Itinerary

A mix of modern and medieval influences along the Baltic Sea

Travel from Lithuania to Latvia to Estonia, exploring capital cities to port towns and everything in between. Find yourself immersed in the rich history and architecture of the Baltic states while enjoying the region's unique art and gastronomic traditions.

  • Vilnius, Lithuania

    Upon arrival in Vilnius, check in to our hotel in the Heart of Old Town, then enjoy an optional walking tour through this medieval district’s cobblestone alleys and lively Cathedral Square.

    Accommodations:

    Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

  • Vilnius, Lithuania

    Tour the Gothic corner of Vilnius this morning including medieval churches and a city gate built in the sixteenth century. Enjoy a funicular ride to the top of Castle Hill, offering sweeping views of Vilnius, and visit the history museum in Gediminas Castle Tower. After an afternoon at leisure, join fellow travelers for a welcome reception this evening. 

    Accommodations:

    Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
  • Kaunas, Lithuania

    Head out this morning to Kaunas, the historical capital of Lithuania. Explore important historic sites such as a nineteenth century prison fort post WWII and a national art museum featuring painter and musician M.K. Čiurlionis. Return to Vilnius this afternoon for a tour of the KGB Museum, a former KGB building showcasing artifacts from the Soviet occupation of Lithuania. 

    Accommodations:

    Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Trakai Historical National Park

    Spend the day exploring the beautiful Trakai Historical National Park. Upon arrival, tour the Karaite Ethnographic Museum, situated on a street dotted with picturesque wooden cottages. After lunch, tour the Trakai Island Castle, a fourteen-century fortress set on scenic Lake Galvė. Then take a private cruise on Lake Galvė and enjoy views of the castle from the water.

    Accommodations:

    Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Riga, Latvia

    Depart this morning for Riga, stopping along the way for a private tour and lunch at the Rundāle Palace, one of the most outstanding monuments of baroque and rococo architecture in Latvia.

    Accommodations:

    Riga Grand Palace

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Riga, Latvia

    Head out on a walking tour of Old Town Riga, or Vecrīga, with its historic wooden buildings and cobblestoned streets. Enjoy a folkloric performance by a children’s dance troupe then an afternoon guided tour of the Art Nouveau Museum, the only museum in the Baltic States dedicated to the art nouveau heritage. Explore the city at your leisure this evening and perhaps try a traditional Latvian restaurant for dinner.

    Accommodations:

    Riga Grand Palace

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Riga, Latvia

    This morning take a tour of the modern Žanis Lipke Memorial, a memorial museum honoring where Žanis Lipke had arranged a shelter for rescued Jews during World War II. After an afternoon at leisure, rejoin as a group for dinner and a private guest speaker.

    Accommodations:

    Riga Grand Palace

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Tallinn, Estonia

    Depart this morning for Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. Stop in the seaside town of Pärnu for lunch at a unique art nouveau villa. Arrive this afternoon at our luxurious hotel, located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town. Enjoy an evening and dinner at leisure.

    Accommodations:

    Hotel Telegraaf

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Tallinn, Estonia

    Head out on a tour this morning of Old Town, including Town Hall Square, Toompea Castle, and Dominican Monastery. Take in art and architecture spanning hundreds of years before heading to lunch in a beautiful historic hall. This afternoon enjoy a private medieval concert then tour the Niguliste Museum to learn about Estonian ecclesiastical art.  

    Accommodations:

    Hotel Telegraaf

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Tallinn, Estonia

    This morning tour of the spectacular Kumu Museum, taking in its award-winning architecture and permanent collection of Estonian art. Take a guided walk through Telliskivi, known as Creative City, full of repurposed industrial buildings, art exhibitions, vintage shops, and a unique food market with over three hundred stalls. Enjoy our final evening together with dinner and a farewell reception. 

    Accommodations:

    Hotel Telegraaf

    Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
  • Tallinn / Home

    Transfer to the airport for return flights home.

Trip details

Start preparing for the trip of a lifetime

From top to bottom, we’ve taken care of all the details, so you can enjoy a no-stress, worry-free travel experience.

The panoramic view of city Riga, Latvia

Pricing

Secure your spot today

The price of your trip covers a comprehensive educational program in addition to meals, accommodations, tours, and excursions. Continue reading for a full list of what’s included.

Beautiful colorful street in old town of Tallinn, Estonia

Join us in Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania

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