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 Bask in Baroque charm, black balsam, and Baltic Sea breezes on our gay tour through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Step into a Baltic fairytale where medieval marvels meet magnificent manors! Wander through Vilnius’ storybook Old Town and visit Trakai’s island castle before unveiling golden dunes and pine forests on the Curonian Spit. Stroll through Latvia’s “Nordic Venice,” and savor the soul of Riga, where Art Nouveau beauty and booming markets collide. Uncover Cold War secrets in a Soviet bunker, then sip handcrafted ciders in Estonia’s lush countryside. From Tallinn’s cobbled lanes to manor house feasts, this journey hits harder than a shot of Black Balsam!
Extend your travels through Eastern Europe by adding on a 3-day extension to Helsinki that delves into the queer history of Tom of Finland. You can also combine this tour with our Georgia: Crossroads of Empires gay tour that wraps up just before this tour begins.
• Unveil four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Vilnius Old Town, Riga Central Market, Tallinn Old Town, and the Curonian Spit
• Ride the funicular to Gediminas Castle Tower for sweeping panoramic views of Vilnius’ skyline and surrounding landscape
• Visit the fairytale Trakai Island Castle, a red-brick Gothic fortress rising from Lake Galve
• Learn to make kibinai pastries, a Karaim culinary tradition, during a hands-on workshop
• Wander the cobbled streets of Kuldiga, nicknamed the “Nordic Venice”
• Descend into the Ligatne Soviet Bunker, a Cold War-era underground facility hidden for decades
• Sample traditional fruit and berry wines at Tori Cider Farm
• Kick back on Pärnu beach, a popular Estonian summer spot
• Trek across Viru Bog in Lahemaa National Park with special bog shoes and visit stately manor houses
• Soar above Vilnius Old Town rooftops on a hot air balloon ride (optional)
Day 1
Sveiki, and welcome to Lithuania! After a private transfer to the hotel, we’ll begin with a Group Meeting at 6:00PM followed by an included Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: Neringa Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania, 4*
Day 2
Labas rytas (good morning), Vilnius! After breakfast, we’ll set out on a guided exploration of Lithuania’s gorgeous capital. Our morning begins in Vilnius Old Town, one of Europe’s largest and most beautifully preserved historic centers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fanciful district is renowned for its cobblestone streets and signature Vilnian Baroque style, an architectural flourish that sets this city apart. We’ll take a short ride on the funicular to reach Gediminas Castle Tower, perched atop a scenic hill with panoramic views of the city. Next, we’ll unveil Vilnius Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece that has stood as a symbol of faith, resilience, and national identity for centuries. Following our walk through Vilnius’ charming streets and squares, we’ll enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant, where Lithuanian flavors take center stage. This afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring on our own, do a bit of shopping, or relax at our hotel.
Hotel: Neringa Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania, 4*
Day 3
For the early risers, an unforgettable adventure awaits. Just after dawn, we’ll lift off on a hot air balloon ride over Vilnius (optional, not included in the tour price), one of the few European capitals where you can float directly above the Old Town’s rooftops. As the morning mist rises and golden light spills across church spires and winding streets, we’ll take in sweeping views of the cityscape from above. Afterward, we’ll rejoin the rest of the group for breakfast before journeying to Trakai to explore the legendary Trakai Island Castle, a red-brick Gothic gem that rises from one of Lithuania’s deepest lakes. Once the residence of Grand Dukes and a strategic stronghold of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the castle now welcomes visitors with fascinating tales of medieval life. After soaking up the history and the lakeside views, we’ll roll up our sleeves for a hands-on kibinai workshop at a local restaurant. These flaky, savory pastries, brought to Lithuania by the Karaim community centuries ago, are a beloved staple of Trakai cuisine. Under the guidance of a local expert, we’ll craft our own before sitting down to a hearty, included 3-course lunch. Afterwards, we’ll return to Vilnius for another evening at our leisure.
Hotel: Neringa Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania, 4*
Day 4
Fuel up, because we’re trading city streets for windswept shores as we explore the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We start our day with a 4-hour drive to Klaipeda. From there, we’ll board a ferry to cross the lagoon and begin our journey along the narrow, otherworldly peninsula that stretches nearly 62 miles (100 km) between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. Here, we’ll wander the Parnidis Dune and take in its sweeping views, stroll across the Dead Dunes, and admire traditional fishermen’s cottages and their distinctive weather vanes. Later, we’ll travel south to Nida, a charming fishing village nestled among fragrant pine forests and towering sand dunes. Here, we’ll have some free time to wander around and enjoy lunch at our leisure. Next, we’ll head north to the Amber Museum to uncover the story of “Baltic gold” and view amber art pieces, jewelry, and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. After we return to Klaipeda, we’ll gather for an included dinner at a local restaurant to toast the day’s coastal discoveries with a delicious meal.
Hotel: Victoria Hotel, Klaipeda, Lithuania, 4+*
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll cross the border into Latvia! Our first stop is Kuldiga, about a 3-hour drive from Klaipeda, often lovingly called the "Nordic Venice". With its winding cobblestone streets, old-world wooden houses, and tranquil canals, scrolling through Kuldiga feels like stepping back in time. We’ll stroll past red-roofed cottages and across quaint bridges, soaking up the town’s relaxed rhythm. Lunch is on our own today, with plenty of cozy cafés and local eateries to pick from. Later, we’ll continue on with a 2-hour drive to Riga, Latvia’s renowned capital. Once we’re settled at our hotel, we’ll gather for an included dinner to feast on Latvian fare before having the remainder of the evening at our leisure.
Hotel: Neiburgs Hotel, Riga, 4+*
Day 6
Labrit (good morning), Riga! After breakfast, we’ll dive into the heart of Latvia’s charismatic capital on a guided walking tour. A city where centuries-old charm meets contemporary energy, Riga dazzles with its blend of Gothic spires, Art Nouveau facades, and creative urban life. We’ll meander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a cobblestone labyrinth brimming with romantic courtyards, colorful guild houses, and lively cafés. We’ll visit St. Peter’s Church Tower and the Riga Dome Cathedral, an architectural marvel renowned for its massive organ containing over 6,700 pipes. Next, we’ll wander through the Riga Central Market, Europe’s largest and most architecturally unique food market. Housed in five former Zeppelin hangars, this energetic bazaar offers a feast for the senses. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Old Town in 1998, the market is a living monument to Latvia’s culinary traditions. Later, we’ll sit down for an included lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon, we’re off to the Riga Black Balsam Showroom for an in-depth introduction and tasting of Latvia’s most distinctive herbal liqueur. Crafted from a secret blend of botanicals, Black Balsam is steeped in history, mystery, and strong local pride. This evening, we’re free to enjoy the city with dinner at our leisure.
Hotel: Neiburgs Hotel, Riga, 4+*
Day 7
Today’s a big day!
After a delicious breakfast, we’ll embark on a journey through Gauja National Park, the country’s oldest and largest national park, and a showcase of Baltic wilderness. With its rolling forests, ancient sandstone cliffs, bubbling springs, and dramatic river valleys, Gauja is a haven for nature lovers. One of the day’s most intriguing stops will be the Ligatne Soviet Bunker, a once top-secret Cold War relic buried 30 ft. (9 m) underground. Built to shelter Latvia’s Communist Party elite in the event of nuclear war, this sprawling facility remained hidden for decades, even from those working above it in the surrounding rehabilitation center. Today, it stands preserved with eerie authenticity, offering a rare and eye-opening glimpse into Soviet-era secrecy, survival strategy, and utilitarian design. Next, we’ll continue on to Cesis, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Baltics. We’ll enjoy an orientation tour, learning about the town’s role in the Hanseatic League and its proud legacy of resistance and resilience. We’ll stop at the legendary Cesis Castle, where we’ll explore crumbling towers, ancient cellars, and stone courtyards that whisper tales of knights, sieges, and royal intrigue. Lunch will be on our own, with free time to discover one of Cesis’ charming cafés or bistros. This afternoon, we’ll cross the border into Estonia and arrive in Pärnu (about a 2.5-hour drive), check in to our hotel, then gather for an included dinner at the elegant Ammende Villa Restaurant, a beautifully restored Art Nouveau mansion known for its refined atmosphere and seasonal cuisine.
Hotel: Ammende Villa Hotel, Pärnu, Estonia, 4*
Day 8
Tere hommikust (good morning), Pärnu! After a leisurely included breakfast, the morning is ours to explore Estonia’s beloved summer hot spot. Whether relaxing seaside, wandering along Pärnu beach, or sipping coffee at a waterfront café, this laid-back morning sets the perfect tone for the day ahead. Late morning, we’ll head inland for a visit to the Tori Cider Farm, where the art of crafting fruit and berry wines has been passed down for generations. Inspired by ancestral knowledge and the unique mineral-rich soils of the region, today’s cider-makers continue this tradition with passion and precision. We’ll tour the orchards, learn about the production process, and enjoy a tasting of their small-batch ciders and wines. Afterward, we’ll enjoy an included lunch at a cozy restaurant. This afternoon, we’ll make our way to Estonia’s capital, Tallinn (a 2-hour drive), and get acquainted on a walking tour through winding alleys flanked by medieval towers in the city’s Old Town, another UNESCO World Heritage site. From street musicians to stylish boutiques, it’s a place where the past and present blend effortlessly. Later, we’ll visit the KUMU Art Museum, Estonia’s premier art institution and a bold example of modern architecture. Tonight, we’ll step back in time for an unforgettable medieval dining experience at Olde Hansa, one of Tallinn’s most popular restaurants. Set in a candlelit hall adorned with wooden beams and period decor, we’ll indulge in a 3-course feast inspired by recipes from the Hanseatic era, complete with a drink of your choice to toast our day of discovery.
Hotel: Nunne Boutique Hotel, Tallinn, Estonia, 4*
Day 9
After a delicious included breakfast, we’ll venture northeast for a day of natural beauty in Lahemaa National Park, where deep evergreen forests, mossy wetlands, and wave-battered coastlines converge with timeless villages and stately manor houses. We’ll begin with a bog shoe hike through Viru Bog, one of Lahemaa’s most accessible wetlands. Equipped with special footwear designed to glide across the soft peat, we’ll trek along raised paths and spongy moss carpets, weaving through the hauntingly beautiful landscape of stunted pines and amber-colored pools. Along the way, we’ll make photo stops and short visits to Palmse Manor, a fully restored baroque estate surrounded by gardens and forest trails, and Sagadi Manor, a pink-hued jewel where generations of Baltic German nobility once lived. We’ll pause for an included lunch at one of the manor house restaurants, where the refined surroundings are matched by regional cuisine infused with a modern twist. This afternoon, we’ll return to the city for some free time followed by a Farewell Dinner at Fotografiska, Tallinn’s celebrated photography museum and culinary destination. Located in the trendy Telliskivi Creative City district, Fotografiska blends cutting-edge art with sustainable fine dining in a rooftop setting that overlooks the skyline. Here, we’ll raise our chalices to the memories we’ve made, the insight we’ve gained, and the friendships that will travel with us long after the journey ends.
Hotel: Nunne Boutique Hotel, Tallinn, Estonia, 4*
Day 10
After an included breakfast, guests who are not joining the extension will enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home, and thanks for joining our Baltic adventure!
Day 10
Guests joining the extension will bid farewell to Tallinn’s skyline and board a scenic 2-hour ferry to Finland’s radiant seaside capital: Helsinki. As we cruise over the Baltic waters, we’ll have time to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and explore the ship’s dining options for lunch (not included). Upon arrival, we’ll begin with a guided bus tour of Helsinki’s most notable landmarks, including The Sibelius Monument, the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, and the grand Senate Square, framed by neoclassical architecture and crowned by the luminous white Helsinki Cathedral. From there, we’ll board a local ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed sea fortress spread across a cluster of small islands. Built in the 18th century and steeped in centuries of military history, Suomenlinna today is a tranquil haven of stone walls and scenic trails. We’ll enjoy a guided walking tour, and afterward, have free time to explore at our own pace, perhaps browsing artisan shops or soaking in the peaceful maritime views. Later in the afternoon, we’ll ferry back to the mainland for a 2-hour Tom of Finland tour featuring insights into Helsinki’s gay history, artist Touko Valio Laaksonen’s (aka Tom of Finland) personal life, and stops at various sites where his art became ingrained into popular culture. This evening, we’ll gather for an included dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of modern Finnish cuisine crafted from seasonal Nordic ingredients.
Hotel: Haven Hotel, Helsinki, Finland, 5*
Day 11
After an included breakfast, we’ll journey to two of Finland’s most cherished cultural gems: the storybook town of Old Porvoo and the magnificent Malmgård Manor. Our first stop is a medieval town seemingly frozen in time, as much of Porvoo looks just as it did in the Middle Ages. We’ll meander through its postcard-worthy streets, past artisan boutiques, charming cafés, and the formidable 15th-century cathedral. From there, we journey to Malmgård Manor, a striking neo-Renaissance estate in the Finnish countryside. Home to the noble Creutz family since the early 1600s, the manor is now helmed by Count Johan Creutz, who has transformed the property into a thriving organic farm and eco-conscious brewery. We’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the manor, walking through its elegant halls and learning how centuries of heritage blend seamlessly with sustainable innovation. Then it’s time for a simple and wholesome lunch served in the manor house. Afterward, we’ll return to Porvoo for some free time to wander at our leisure. Later this afternoon, we’ll return to Helsinki and gather at Kolme Kruunua, a beloved restaurant that fuses old-world atmosphere with Finnish culinary comfort. Here, we’ll enjoy a Farewell Dinner as we toast to new friendships and the unforgettable journey we’ve shared.
Hotel: Haven Hotel, Helsinki, Finland, 5*
Day 12
After an included breakfast, guests will enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home, and thanks for joining us in the Baltics and Finland!
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• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel
• A gay group host and English-speaking local guides throughout
• Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
• All gratuities for drivers, included meals, and porters
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
• All land transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.
• International airfare
• Helsinki extension
• Optional activities, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• All items of a personal nature (laundry, drinks, etc.)
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
• Gratuities for your host and local group leader (budget approximately $140 – $200 USD)
• Ferry from Tallin to Helsinki (one-way)
• Departure transfer from finishing point hotel
• A gay group host and a local guide throughout
• Daily breakfast, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
• All gratuities for drivers, included meals, and porters
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All land transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Accommodations
• Entrance fees
• International airfare
• Private arrival transfer
• Optional activities, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• All items of a personal nature (laundry, drinks, etc.)
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
• Gratuities for your host and local group leader (budget approximately $30 – $40 USD)
Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia Visas
All three countries are part of the Schengen Area. Starting in 2026, most visitors will require an EU Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS) which will be obtained online. Be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure. There may be some exceptions, and it is the responsibility of all travellers to ensure they meet all entry requirements. Click here for more info.
Culture Shock
Baltic culture is a fascinating contrast of old-world tradition and modern progress. While cities like Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius are increasingly open-minded and have growing queer scenes, much of the region still leans conservative, especially outside urban centers.
Local LGBT Scene
Most visible in capital cities like Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, it’s steadily growing, powered by a younger, increasingly progressive generation. While smaller towns may remain more conservative and public displays of affection can sometimes raise eyebrows, urban centers host Pride celebrations and are home to inclusive nightlife.
Weather
June through August is summer in the Baltics, and it’s the best time to soak up the region’s charm. Expect long days with up to 18 hours of daylight. Daytime temperatures typically range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), with the occasional refreshing breeze off the Baltic Sea. In cities like Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn, café culture spills into the streets, festivals come alive, and locals embrace the sunshine with open-air concerts and pop-up markets.
Required Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required for entry. Routine vaccines are recommended. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine may be considered if you’re planning extended time in rural areas, especially during summer months.
Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for Type F sockets.
Connectivity
All of our hotels will have Wi-Fi access. If you require connectivity, we recommend purchasing an international data plan or local SIM card (with an unlocked device). Even with a SIM card or roaming plan, coverage may be weak.
Travel Insurance
For everyone’s peace of mind, travel insurance is mandatory for all our tours. This insurance must include medical coverage and emergency repatriation/evacuation. In addition to meeting our minimum requirements, we strongly recommend insuring the total cost of your trip with cancellation coverage and selecting a policy that covers all activities included in this tour.
Physical Preparedness
This tour is rated 2/5 and is not suitable for guests with mobility issues due to the amount of walking on uneven ground, and up/down stairs.
All guests must have a good level of health, and all tours involve uneven steps or stairs, and you will be required to carry your own luggage from time to time. Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate individuals with limited mobility unless they are willing to absorb the cost of a private guide/assistant which varies by country and is only possible on a case by case basis. It is also your responsibility to advise us of any pre-existing medical conditions that may increase the risk of you requiring medical attention, or that may affect the normal conduct of the tour and the enjoyment of the tour by other participants.
Meals
Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, and 6 dinners are included.
Money
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted; however, some local markets may only accept cash
NOTE: We recommend carrying approximately $200 USD to be used in case of an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold. This should be in addition to any spending money.
Tipping
If you are happy with the services throughout your trip, a tip is recommended. Tipping details will be provided in your final trip documentation, however we recommend budgeting approximately $140 – $200 USD.
What to bring
Our adventure entail carrying your own luggage on occasion. Our packing list is a guideline, not gospel. Our specialists are happy to answer any specific questions about how much or little to bring.
Flying Solo
If you’ve never travelled on your own, it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. If there’s an odd number of solos, we’ll rotate a single room on a random basis.
How We Travel
Our tour is all about good times with like-minded folks. Whether we’re sitting around a campfire or indulging in five-star decadence, our goal is to make the experience magical. We also support the communities we visit by hiring local guides, staying at locally-owned accommodations whenever possible, and seeking out authentic local cuisine. It all adds up to a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Your Guide
All tours are led by a gay (or gay-welcoming) guide. Whenever possible, we hire destination locals. And we can also connect you with the right people if you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture.
Fellow Adventurers
Our tours are a great way to meet people from around the world and all walks of life. Bear in mind that everybody’s there for a good time, so mutual respect will go a long way. Please be on time for any meetups, empathetic to the needs of others, and ready to roll with whatever the adventure brings.
Although we can’t tell you who your fellow travellers will be for privacy reasons, we can tell you many great friendships began with our tour. And just because we’re a gay travel company doesn’t mean we’re exclusive: friends and family are always welcome to join the fun.
Groups Within Groups
We love when groups of friends join us on tour, whether you’re celebrating a major milestone, or you just love to travel together. However, since we have travellers that will be flying solo, or as a couple, we would love your help ensuring everybody feels welcome and has an epic time.
Itinerary Disclaimer
The itinerary is correct at time of publishing. If anything, it will only improve with feedback from prior travellers and our own research. It’s best to reference your final trip documents, rather than our website, in case there have been any changes that affect your departure.
Starting Point Hotel
Neringa Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania
Only a 10-minute walk from Gediminas Castle and the old town of Vilnius, Hotel Neringa offers 124 bright air-conditioned rooms, a traditional restaurant, a lobby bar and a rooftop bar (open seasonally). Wi-fi is available in all rooms and public spaces and is free of charge.
The Neringa’s rooms feature a large working desk, a minibar, a safe, a flat screen TV with satellite channels, an ironing set and coffee-tea making facilities, and a bathroom with hairdryer. Classic Lithuanian cuisine and international dishes are served in the historic ambience of the Neringa restaurant. Guests can exercise in hotel‘s gym (free of charge).
Finishing Point Hotel
Nunne Boutique Hotel, Tallinn, Estonia
Located in Tallinn city centre, the hotel is 6 km from Lennart Meri Airport. Nearby attractions include Town Hall Square (300 metres) and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (600 metres).
The modern restaurant serves European cuisine with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast includes local specialities, warm dishes, fresh pastries, and fruits.
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, bathrobes, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include hypoallergenic bedding, work desks, and soundproofing.
Guests benefit from a paid shuttle service, lift, 24-hour front desk, housekeeping, room service, and luggage storage.
Helsinki Finishing Point Hotel
Haven Hotel, Helsinki, Finland
Overlooking Helsinki Harbour, this elegant hotel is just around the corner from the Esplanadi shopping streets. It offers rooms with luxury beds, spa-style bathrooms and a Chromecast multimedia streaming system. WiFi and gym access is free.
The air-conditioned rooms of Hotel Haven include modern décor, a minibar and both cable and satellite channels. Certain rooms have views of the Presidential Palace, the Market Square and the Uspenski Cathedral.
In the elegant foyer, guests can relax by the fireplace and browse leisurely through the daily papers. Bar Haven serves both hot beverages and drinks in the evening, along with a bar menu of delicious foods.
Hotel Haven's breakfast is set in the Sundmans building, the second oldest stone building in Helsinki. Windows in the restaurant dining rooms offer views over the Market Square and harbor of Helsinki.
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