Baltic Highlights New Year

Three medieval capitals, one extraordinary New Year – this 8-day journey through the heart of the Baltic states is the most festive way to close out the year and step into the new one. The adventure opens in Vilnius, Lithuania's baroque gem, where cobbled lanes lead to centuries-old churches, the iconic Gediminas Tower and the mystical Gates of Dawn. An optional afternoon excursion to the fairy-tale island castle of Trakai and a traditional Lithuanian dinner set the tone for the days ahead. The road north carries you past the Hill of Crosses – one of the most powerful and moving sights in the Baltics – before arriving at the grandeur of Rundale Palace, Latvia's finest baroque treasure. Riga then takes centre stage: its kaleidoscope of architectural styles, from medieval Old Town to the world-renowned Art Nouveau district, provide the perfect backdrop for welcoming the new year. The evening of New Year's Eve brings a fabulous Gala dinner, and New Year's Day is yours entirely – to wander, reflect or simply savour the city at your own pace. The final leg takes you along the coastal highway through the charming resort of Pärnu and into Tallinn, where medieval tranquillity and modern energy coexist in perfect harmony. Ancient city walls, ornate cathedrals and the award-winning KUMU art museum round off a journey that has spanned history, culture and celebration in equal measure.