9-Day Road Trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia from Riga to Pärnu, Valmiera, Panevėžys, and Vilnius

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Riga in Latvia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Riga for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Latvia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Riga before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Riga today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Dome Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,480 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Riga. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Latvia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the sun sets on day 1 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Riga's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Latvia to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Riga has them.

Start your culinary exploration in Riga by securing a reservation at Milda. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Max Cekot Kitchen, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Shōyu, a top local spot known for its tantalizing japanese and ramen menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kafejnīca, bārs Ezītis miglā, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, "Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs" (Folk club ALA cellar) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Armoury Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Your multi-country road trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

On day 2, you will wake up in Riga with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Riga before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Riga today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Riga National Zoological Garden. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,386 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Esplanāde. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8,941 visitors.

According to travelers in Riga, the extraordinary Memorial to Anna Wöhrmann is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,690 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible opera house, Latvian National Opera House. Up to 6,480 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular market hall, Riga Central Market. This attraction is rated an average 4.3 out of 5 stars among 46,344 visitors.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Riga boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Latvia.

Savor the flavors at Pētergailis, restorāns, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Da Roberta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider LIDO Alus sēta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Riga tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Aussie Backpackers Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Andalūzijas Suns is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Skyline bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Riga in Latvia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pärnu, your home for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Jūrmala and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jūrmala beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Riga is not complete without a visit to the famous Bastejkalna Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,899 travelers.

Make the most of your Riga travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Freedom Monument. This monument and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,894 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Riga Motor Museum for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,789 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Riga, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Jūrmala may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Jūrmala, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Jūrmala is the magnificent Dzintari Forest Park. Around 10,458 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Pärnu. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Pärnu. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Jahtklubi Restoran, an iconic dining spot in Pärnu. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kohvik-Restoran Hea Maa - mõnus söögikoht Pärnus, a popular restaurant in Pärnu. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ferro kohvik, a hidden gem nestled in Pärnu. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Aloha Surf, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, ¿Qué pasa? offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pärnu. C. F Hahn pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia has in store for you! You will be staying in Pärnu for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Beach Park is a travelers’ favorite in Pärnu, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,146 visitors.

In Pärnu, don’t miss MiniZoo, a great zoo and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,065 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Pärnu off your list when you visit the wonderful Valli Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,544 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Pärnu Coastal Meadow Hiking Trail. This educational trail and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,792 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Pärnu muul awaits. This point of interest is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 584 visitors.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Latvia's delectable cuisine at one of Pärnu's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ESTONIA Resort Hotel & Spa, a top-rated dining spot in Pärnu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gruusia restoran Kolhethi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trahter Postipoiss. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pärnu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting BUM-BUM PUBI after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Veerev Õlu, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Häädemeeste in Estonia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valmiera, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Häädemeeste.

In Häädemeeste, the extraordinary Lotte Village Theme Park awaits. This attraction is a valued amusement park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,426 travelers' reviews.

Valmiera’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kilingi-Nõmme linn behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Valmiera welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Caves & springs of Allikukivi is a travelers’ favorite in Kilingi-Nõmme linn, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 220 visitors.

Pärnu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated beach and attraction in Pärnu — Pärnu Beach. About 2,376 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Valmiera’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Valmiera's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Latvia to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Valmiera has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vecpuisis, a highly-rated dining destination in Valmiera. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ahh-meat, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro "Pasēdnīca". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valmiera this evening.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. Today's main destinations are Pilsrundāle in Latvia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Panevėžys. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Cēsis, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pilsrundāle. Your travel time is around 2 hours 22 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Pilsrundāle is the fantastic Rundāle Palace. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Rundāle Palace has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,486 reviews.

Set your GPS to Pilsrundāle and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pilsrundāle beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Cēsis is not complete without a visit to the famous Cēsis Castle. This incredible castle ruin and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,538 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cēsis, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pilsrundāle may take around 2 hours 22 min. Upon your arrival in Pilsrundāle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Cēsis the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Gauja National Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,953 visitors.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Panevėžys. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Panevėžys. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Grill London, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Špunka Old Barrel Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Fa Arena Café Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Panevėžys.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Seklyčia prie uosio, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Trakai in Lithuania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vilnius, where you will stay for 1 night.

In Vilnius, the extraordinary Vilnius TV Tower awaits. This attraction is a valued television tower that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,180 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Vilnius is the spectacular Vingis Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,745 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Gate of Dawn. This local city gate and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,701 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Hall Market is another attraction you might want to add to your Vilnius exploration itinerary. This point of interest is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,517 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Trakai, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Panevėžys to Trakai may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Trakai, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Trakai Island Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Trakai, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,223 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Vilnius.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Vilnius. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Latvia in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Make sure to book a table at Etno Dvaras, a popular restaurant in Vilnius. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vilnius at Lokys, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Miško užeiga. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Vilnius tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Alaus studija stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Peronas offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Būsi trečias is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vilnius in Lithuania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Riga where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vilnius, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Latvia! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Riga may take around 3 hours 41 min. Upon your arrival in Riga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Vilnius is the magnificent Vilnius Cathedral. Around 15,255 visitors have rated this excellent cathedral and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Cathedral Square on this leg of your adventure in Lithuania. This attraction is a well-known square that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 3,856 travelers.

The remarkable Bernardine Garden is known to be one of the best places to visit in Vilnius, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 17,066 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Vilnius by exploring the captivating Verkiai Regional Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,229 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Vilnius exploration list!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vilnius and set your GPS to Riga, Latvia. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 41 min. Upon reaching Riga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Riga. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Riga’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Savor the flavors at Province restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Šašliki, Grilbārs beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Avotu Ezītis miglā. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Riga tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Alus Muiža, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Lokāls Veldze is another popular option for a drink or two.

As the night falls in Riga, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Riga before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Latvia, take time to indulge in shopping at Riga’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Latvia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Latvia forever.

Get a last taste of Latvia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Riga and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fazenda Bazārs, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taškenta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Riga for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia with fond memories. Safe travels!