ITINERARY: 8 DAYS BALTIC JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN VILNIUS
- Arrival in Vilnius
- Meet English speaking guide at airport and transfer to hotel;
- Overnight
DAY 2: VILNIUS CITY TOUR & THE VILNA GAON MUSEUM OF JEWISH HISTORY
- Breakfast at the hotel;
- Vilnius Old Town visit
Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe. Its cobblestone streets wind through a maze of historic buildings, churches, and squares, reflecting centuries of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque. Dominated by the iconic Gediminas Tower, the Old Town offers panoramic views of the cityscape. Visitors can explore prominent landmarks such as the Cathedral Square, St. Anne’s Church, and the Presidential Palace. With its charming atmosphere and rich history, Vilnius Old Town is a captivating destination for tourists and locals alike.
- Samuel Bak Museum, Vilna Gaon Museum of Jewish History
The Vilna Gaon Museum of Jewish History is one of the most important institutions preserving Jewish heritage in Lithuania. Named after the legendary scholar Vilna Gaon, the museum explores the rich history of Jewish life in the region from its flourishing cultural and religious traditions to its tragic destruction during the Holocaust. Through a network of exhibitions and sites across the city, visitors can discover authentic artifacts, personal stories, and historical documents that bring the past to life. With its comprehensive and insightful approach, the museum offers a profound understanding of the Jewish experience in Lithuania and its lasting legacy.
- Depart to Kaunas
- Overnight in Kaunas
DAY 3: KAUNAS – LOST SHTETL MUSEUM – RIGA
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit Ohel Jakov Synagogue in Kaunas
The Ohel Jakob Synagogue is the only functioning synagogue in Kaunas and an important center of Jewish religious life in the city. Built in the late 19th century, it reflects the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the once-thriving Jewish community in Kaunas. The synagogue has witnessed significant historical events and remains a symbol of continuity and resilience. Today, it serves both as a place of worship and a reminder of the enduring Jewish heritage in Lithuania.
- Depart for Lost Shtetl Museum
- Guided tour of the museum
The Lost Shtetl Museum offers a powerful and immersive journey into the everyday life of Jewish shtetls in Lithuania before World War II. Located in the historic Šeduva region, the museum brings to life the traditions, culture, and close-knit communities that once flourished across the countryside. Through modern exhibitions, multimedia storytelling, and personal narratives, visitors gain a deeper understanding of a vanished world, making it one of the most unique and emotionally engaging Jewish heritage experiences in the Baltics.
- Depart to Riga
- Overnight in Riga
DAY 4: RIGA OLD TOWN TOUR & JEWISH HERITAGE
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Riga Sightseeing
During the tour you will enjoy the beauty of the ancient Hanseatic city, while strolling through the cobble-stone, picturesque streets of the Old Town. In Old Riga you will see the Dome Cathedral which boasts one of the world’s largest pipe organs, St. Peter’s Church with magnificent views of the city from its steeple, the old Guild Houses, the Swedish Gate, the architectural ensemble Three Brothers, St. Jacob’s Church, the Parliament House, Old Riga Castle, and view the many wonderfully restored buildings, now housing cozy restaurants, cafes, bars and souvenir shops.
- Jews in Latvia Museum visit
The Jews in Latvia Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the history and cultural life of Jewish communities in Latvia from the 16th century to the present day. Located in Riga, the museum presents authentic documents, photographs, and personal stories that illustrate the vibrant prewar Jewish society, its contributions to Latvian culture, and its tragic destruction during the Holocaust. Through its thoughtful and informative exhibitions, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and legacy of Jewish life in Latvia.
- Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum
The Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum is located in the historic area of the former Riga Ghetto and offers a meaningful insight into the history of Jewish life in Riga before and during World War II. Through photographs, personal testimonies, and reconstructed elements, the museum presents the story of the Jewish community, its cultural richness, and the challenges it faced during the Holocaust. Set in an open-air environment, it provides a reflective and educational experience, helping visitors better understand this important chapter of Latvia’s history.
- Visit Riga Synagogue
The Peitav Synagogue is the only surviving synagogue in Riga and an important center of Jewish religious life in Latvia. Built in the early 20th century, the synagogue reflects architectural influences of the period and has remained in continuous use despite the dramatic events of the 20th century. Located in the Old Town, it stands as a symbol of the resilience and continuity of the Jewish community. Today, it offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Jewish traditions and experience the living heritage of Riga’s Jewish population.
- Overnight in Riga
DAY 5: SALASPILS MEMORIAL – TRANSFER TO TALLINN
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit Zanis Lipke Museum
The Žanis Lipke Memorial is dedicated to the extraordinary story of Žanis Lipke, who risked his life to save Jews during World War II. Located near the former Riga Ghetto area, the memorial is built on the site where Lipke hid those he rescued. Its unique and symbolic architecture, combined with personal stories and historical context, creates a deeply moving experience, highlighting courage, humanity, and moral strength in the face of persecution.
- Travel to Salaspils Memorial
The Salaspils Memorial is a powerful remembrance site dedicated to the victims of Nazi persecution during World War II, including Jews deported to the camp. Located on the grounds of a former camp, the memorial features striking concrete sculptures and a vast open landscape that conveys the scale of suffering and loss. Through its symbolic design and solemn atmosphere, it offers visitors a place for reflection on the tragic fate of Jewish communities and other victims during this dark period of history.
- Transfer to Tallinn, Estonia
- Overnight in Tallinт
DAY 6: TALLINN OLD TOWN TOUR & JEWISH HERITAGE
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Tallinn Old Town visit
The city tour of Tallinn, a picturesque old city, where whole districts date back to the Middle Ages. You will visit the Old Town with its quaint narrow streets and beautiful merchants’ houses exemplifying the best of Gothic architecture. The tour includes Toompea Castle, the 13th century Dome church, the 19th century Russian orthodox Cathedral of Alexander Nevskij, the 15th century town Hall square, the Old Guild built to celebrate Tallinn’s membership in the Hanseatic League, and St. Olaf’s church. On Driving part visit Tallinn’s suburbs and Song Festival Grounds, St Brigittes monastery and Pirita area.
- Tallinn Synagogue visit
The Tallinn Synagogue is the main center of Jewish life in Estonia and a symbol of the community’s revival. Opened in 2007, it is the first synagogue built in Estonia since World War II, combining modern architecture with traditional elements. Located near Tallinn’s city center, it serves both as a place of worship and a cultural hub, offering visitors insight into the history and present-day life of Estonia’s small but active Jewish community.
- Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 7: DAY TRIP TO LAHEMAA NATIONAL PARK
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Excursion to Lahemaa national park (6 hours incl. transfers and visits)
Laahema National Park is located about 60 km from Tallinn and covers 480 square km of typical North Estonia sea coast landscape. Lahemaa is the largest and oldest national park in Estonia, boasting diverse landscapes, pristine wilderness, and rich cultural heritage. Begin your adventure by exploring Lahemaa’s dense forests, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of this natural wonderland. Hike along scenic trails that meander through ancient forests, where you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and wild boar.
- Palmse manor visit
Palmse Manor, nestled within Lahemaa National Park in northern Estonia, is a captivating example of Baltic German noble architecture. This historic mansion, dating back to the 18th century, boasts elegant Baroque and Neo-Renaissance features set amidst picturesque gardens. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored interiors, stroll through the manicured grounds, and learn about the estate’s rich history, offering a glimpse into Estonia’s feudal past and the lifestyles of the aristocracy. Palmse Manor provides a captivating cultural experience amidst the natural beauty of Lahemaa National Park.
- Overnight in Tallinn
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM TALLINN
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Depending on your flight times, transfer to the airport for your flight.
