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2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
This tour is available in multiple options - choose your preferred option using the buttons below:
Best of Scandinavia & the Baltics tour
Combine all the destinations on the single tours into the full-length, 20-day combo tour to experience the best of Scandinavia, Finland, the Baltics & Poland.
Copenhagen to Helsinki tour
Travel on this part of the combo tour to experience 13 days in Scandinavia as well as Finland.
Helsinki to Warsaw tour
Travel on the second part of the combo tour to experience 10 days in Finland, the Baltics & Poland.
This expertly curated tour ticks off some of the best-loved attractions across Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. Cross the Gulf of Finland on a ferry from Helsinki, visit the mysterious Hill of Crosses and marvel at the rich tapestry of Baltic architecture that developed in the wake of multiple world wars. In between, enjoy scenic drives, locally-guided tours of fascinating cities like Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius and Warsaw and visit the region’s most fascinating monuments! Look forward to 10 days of travel excitement, from Helsinki to Warsaw!
If you'd like to explore Scandinavia in addition to the Baltics, consider the Best of Scandinavia & the Baltics tour - click here.
Welcome to Finland! Start in Helsinki, a vibrant seaside city known for its beautiful islands and great green parks. Settle in at your harbourside hotel, and meet up with your tour leader and the group before setting off on a guided walking tour around the city. Led by an expert local, get ready to encounter some of Helsinki’s most famous sights! This includes the likes of the Havis Amanda, as well as the Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour mates this evening so you can all get acquainted in the lead-up to your epic adventure from Helsinki to Warsaw!
Meals: Dinner
Look forward to a free day to discover more of Helsinki! Helsinki is a central hub for unique Finnish design, culture, historic points of interest and architectural innovation. Why not explore the Suomenlinna Fortress this afternoon on an optional excursion, including a guided tour and museum entrance? Or, enjoy a few hours of blissful relaxation at one of the many saunas around town. A stroll around the city with stops at local restaurants, shops and cafés is a great way to absorb the laid-back Finnish vibe. Choose to spend the evening discovering Helsinki's must-see attractions, including the Amos Rex art museum, Temppeliaukio Church and Sibelius Monument. Soak up the stunning sights before enjoying a local dinner with an ocean view.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, let’s take this Baltic States group tour across the Gulf of Finland! Enjoy the last hour or two in Helsinki before heading to the ferry terminal. Board the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry with the group, settle in and enjoy a cruise to Estonia’s capital city. Upon arrival, it’s time to enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town Square. Next, join an expert local guide for a walking tour of Tallinn. Tallinn is a fantastic combination of historic charm and modern culture. See highlights such as Tall Hermann Tower and St Olav's Church. Afterwards, make the most of a free evening to explore more of Tallinn!
Meals: BreakfastLunch
Bid farewell to Tallinn as it’s time to head towards Riga, the capital of Latvia! Along the way, the tour will stopover in the resort city of Pärnu in Estonia to sightsee and shop. Next, the tour continues across the border to the coastal town of Saulkrasti in Latvia which is a scenic destination on the Gulf of Riga. Later, arrive in Riga and learn about Latvia’s WWI history during a visit to the Latvian Military Cemetery before checking into the hotel for tonight. Take some time to freshen up before heading out on an orientation tour of Riga. See Riga’s Old Town and many highlights of this Baltic capital including the Riga Dom Cathedral, Parliament House and more!
Meals: Breakfast
After a bright and early start, cross the border to a country that very few people know of; Lithuania, a beautiful Baltic state in northern Europe. Today’s first stop is the mysterious and famous religious sight, the Hill of Crosses. Then, visit the town of Trakai, home to the majestic Trakai Island Castle! Finally, continue onwards to the capital of Lithuania; Vilnius. Upon arrival this afternoon, embark on a sightseeing tour of the beautiful Baroque city. The top attractions will include iconic sights like the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral and the Church of St. Anne. After the tour, take some free time to explore, and then meet up with your fellow travellers for dinner.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Get ready to visit another exciting European destination today - Poland! Wave farewell to Vilnius this morning, cross the border into Poland and head to today’s first stop, the Masurian Lake District. This region is home to spectacular scenery and over 2,000 lakes. Enjoy some free time to explore or grab some lunch. Hop back aboard the coach and travel onwards to Gdansk - a beautiful and historic port city. Get to know Gdansk and admire its charming architecture on an orientation tour before enjoying free time for dinner this evening.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Discover the history, charm and unique Dutch influence found in Gdansk today! Begin by getting to know the city’s highlights and important historic areas on a locally guided walking tour. Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. More of Gdansk is waiting to be explored! Visit the Old Town, stroll around Long Market square and admire the impressive architecture. For insight into Poland’s wartime history, visit the Museum of the Second World War as well as the European Solidarity Centre which features fascinating exhibitions on Poland’s fight for freedom from the USSR.
Meals: Breakfast
Say do widzenia to Gdansk and travel to today’s first stop - Malbork Castle. This 13th-century landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is officially the world’s largest castle! Experience the history and explore the grounds of this impressive fortress. Next, it’s time to visit Toruń - another beautiful mediaeval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Toruń is renowned for its Museum of Gingerbread and is the hometown of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Here, have some fun with a traditional and interactive gingerbread workshop! Afterwards, travel onwards to the capital of Poland; Warsaw! Arrive at the hotel and enjoy an included dinner.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
It may be the last night of the tour but the travel excitement is far from slowing down! Today offers an in-depth look at Poland’s fascinating and historic capital city, Warsaw. This morning, set off on a driving and walking tour, led by an expert local guide. Learn more about Warsaw’s pivotal role in WWII and see the city’s highlights. The city’s architecture is a testament to its gritty history that has shaped it into the city it is today. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. Join the Warsaw+ optional excursion to delight in a delicious local lunch, a visit to the dreamy Lazienki Park and a tour of the fascinating Praga District.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is the final day of your group Baltic States tour and vacation in Warsaw. Enjoy a final breakfast with your tour group, and get ready to head back home. We hope you have had an incredible time exploring Europe from Helsinki to Warsaw and hope to see you back on an Expat Explore coach again very soon!
Meals: Breakfast
Welcome to Finland! Start in Helsinki, a vibrant seaside city known for its beautiful islands and great green parks. Settle in at your harbourside hotel, and meet up with your tour leader and the group before setting off on a guided walking tour around the city. Led by an expert local, get ready to encounter some of Helsinki’s most famous sights! This includes the likes of the Havis Amanda, as well as the Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour mates this evening so you can all get acquainted in the lead-up to your epic adventure from Helsinki to Warsaw!
Walking tour of Helsinki: Visit the Havis Amanda, the famous art nouveau fountain that features a lady in the nude. It is said to symbolise the birth of the city of Helsinki. Also explore the famous Senate Square and its buildings, a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. In the city’s historic centre, visit Helsinki Cathedral; Finland's most photographed building and yet another neoclassical marvel. Set foot in Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. Finish with a walk through Kauppatori Market, the ideal place to pick up some keepsakes and well-priced Finnish crafts.
Welcome dinner: This evening, meet up with your group over a welcome dinner at the hotel. This is the ideal time to get acquainted with your fellow travellers.
Dinner
Hotel
Look forward to a free day to discover more of Helsinki! Helsinki is a central hub for unique Finnish design, culture, historic points of interest and architectural innovation. Why not explore the Suomenlinna Fortress this afternoon on an optional excursion, including a guided tour and museum entrance? Or, enjoy a few hours of blissful relaxation at one of the many saunas around town. A stroll around the city with stops at local restaurants, shops and cafés is a great way to absorb the laid-back Finnish vibe. Choose to spend the evening discovering Helsinki's must-see attractions, including the Amos Rex art museum, Temppeliaukio Church and Sibelius Monument. Soak up the stunning sights before enjoying a local dinner with an ocean view.
Breakfast
Hotel
Explore the centuries-old splendour of Suomenlinna Fortress on a guided tour of the islands, including access to Ehrensvärd Museum and a light lunch!
Spend an evening discovering Helsinki's awe-inspiring attractions! Marvel at spectacular views and architecture before tasting some local cuisine.
Today, let’s take this Baltic States group tour across the Gulf of Finland! Enjoy the last hour or two in Helsinki before heading to the ferry terminal. Board the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry with the group, settle in and enjoy a cruise to Estonia’s capital city. Upon arrival, it’s time to enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town Square. Next, join an expert local guide for a walking tour of Tallinn. Tallinn is a fantastic combination of historic charm and modern culture. See highlights such as Tall Hermann Tower and St Olav's Church. Afterwards, make the most of a free evening to explore more of Tallinn!
Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing: Hop aboard and enjoy a cruise across the Gulf of Finland, from Finland to Estonia. Be sure to take in the scenic views as the ferry makes its way to Tallinn.
Lunch at a medieval restaurant in Tallinn: Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town Square.
Guided tour of Tallinn: Join a local guide for a tour of Tallinn, Estonia’s lively capital! Filled with mediaeval churches, cobbled walkways and a vibrant, contemporary culture, Tallinn is a photographer's dream. Highlights include St Olav's church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tall Hermann Tower, Town Hall Square and more.
BreakfastLunch
Hotel
Bid farewell to Tallinn as it’s time to head towards Riga, the capital of Latvia! Along the way, the tour will stopover in the resort city of Pärnu in Estonia to sightsee and shop. Next, the tour continues across the border to the coastal town of Saulkrasti in Latvia which is a scenic destination on the Gulf of Riga. Later, arrive in Riga and learn about Latvia’s WWI history during a visit to the Latvian Military Cemetery before checking into the hotel for tonight. Take some time to freshen up before heading out on an orientation tour of Riga. See Riga’s Old Town and many highlights of this Baltic capital including the Riga Dom Cathedral, Parliament House and more!
Visit Pärnu: Enjoy a stop in the resort city of Pärnu in southwestern Estonia. Pärnu is a seaside city overlooking Pärnu Bay and is renowned for its street art, colourful houses and scenic beach.
Enjoy a stop in Saulkrasti: The seaside town of Saulkrasti is a great place to drink in the beauty of the Latvian shoreline without huge crowds. This is where Latvian locals spend days by the beach.
Visit the Latvian Military Cemetery: Also called the Brothers' Cemetery or Cemetery of the Brethren, the Latvian Military Cemetery is a national monument that commemorates the sacrifice of 2,000+ Latvian soldiers who gave their lives for their country during 1915-1920, fighting in World War I and the Latvian War of Independence.
Orientation tour of Riga: Embark on an orientation walking tour of Riga, Latvia’s exciting capital city. See the impressive architecture and learn more about Latvia’s history and culture. Riga boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere combined with Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The city is home to popular landmarks like the Riga Dom Cathedral, the Houses of the Black Heads, Parliament House, the Three Brothers, the Old City Wall and the Freedom Monument.
Breakfast
Hotel
After a bright and early start, cross the border to a country that very few people know of; Lithuania, a beautiful Baltic state in northern Europe. Today’s first stop is the mysterious and famous religious sight, the Hill of Crosses. Then, visit the town of Trakai, home to the majestic Trakai Island Castle! Finally, continue onwards to the capital of Lithuania; Vilnius. Upon arrival this afternoon, embark on a sightseeing tour of the beautiful Baroque city. The top attractions will include iconic sights like the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral and the Church of St. Anne. After the tour, take some free time to explore, and then meet up with your fellow travellers for dinner.
Visit the Hill of Crosses: Experience a visit to the Kryziu Kalnas Hill of Crosses in Lithuania which has been one of the world’s most singular expressions of human faith and sacrifice for over 100 years. Pilgrims have been flocking to the sight for centuries and today there are 200,000+ crosses, carvings and shrines. The tradition of leaving crosses on the hill began only in 1831 by relatives of rebels who died fighting the Russian tsar of the time.
Discover Trakai Castle: Discover the magical Trakai Island Castle located in the Trakai National Park. This Gothic castle was built on an island in Lake Galve and the beautiful scenery and lapping waters of the lake make it a truly scenic destination! Enjoy some time to explore the castle or get some lunch in the town of Trakai.
Orientation tour of Vilnius: Join your tour leader for an orientation tour of Vilnius. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers centuries of history to explore, and has a long and storied past. Learn about the history and see more of this city’s Baroque-style architecture and medieval buildings and monuments. Highlights include the Vilnius Cathedral, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, the Vilnius Town Hall and the Adam Mickiewicz statue. You can also cross the river into the Užupio Respublika, a self-proclaimed republic within Vilnius which has its own constitution and an army of 11 men.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Get ready to visit another exciting European destination today - Poland! Wave farewell to Vilnius this morning, cross the border into Poland and head to today’s first stop, the Masurian Lake District. This region is home to spectacular scenery and over 2,000 lakes. Enjoy some free time to explore or grab some lunch. Hop back aboard the coach and travel onwards to Gdansk - a beautiful and historic port city. Get to know Gdansk and admire its charming architecture on an orientation tour before enjoying free time for dinner this evening.
Masurian Lakes scenic drive: Admire the gorgeous natural scenery of Poland’s Masurian Lake District before enjoying free time for lunch in the area. The 2,000 lakes and beautiful outdoor areas make this a popular tourist spot in Poland.
Orientation tour of Gdansk: See the highlights of Gdansk on an orientation tour with your tour leader. The harbour city boasts unique historic Dutch-style architecture, a beautiful “Royal Way” in the main town, great museums and scenic cobbled streets winding alongside the River Motława.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Discover the history, charm and unique Dutch influence found in Gdansk today! Begin by getting to know the city’s highlights and important historic areas on a locally guided walking tour. Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. More of Gdansk is waiting to be explored! Visit the Old Town, stroll around Long Market square and admire the impressive architecture. For insight into Poland’s wartime history, visit the Museum of the Second World War as well as the European Solidarity Centre which features fascinating exhibitions on Poland’s fight for freedom from the USSR.
Walking tour of Gdansk: Find out more about this unique port city on a walking tour. Join a local guide who will point out the top attractions and provide some historic insight into Gdansk’s past as well as its present. Gdansk underwent major reconstruction after most of the city was destroyed during WWII.
Breakfast
Hotel
Say do widzenia to Gdansk and travel to today’s first stop - Malbork Castle. This 13th-century landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is officially the world’s largest castle! Experience the history and explore the grounds of this impressive fortress. Next, it’s time to visit Toruń - another beautiful mediaeval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Toruń is renowned for its Museum of Gingerbread and is the hometown of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Here, have some fun with a traditional and interactive gingerbread workshop! Afterwards, travel onwards to the capital of Poland; Warsaw! Arrive at the hotel and enjoy an included dinner.
Malbork Castle visit: Explore the world’s largest castle on an audio-guided tour. The mighty fortress was completed in the early 1400s and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Toruń Gingerbread Experience: Attend a fun gingerbread making workshop in Toruń - a town famous for its Museum of Gingerbread!
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
It may be the last night of the tour but the travel excitement is far from slowing down! Today offers an in-depth look at Poland’s fascinating and historic capital city, Warsaw. This morning, set off on a driving and walking tour, led by an expert local guide. Learn more about Warsaw’s pivotal role in WWII and see the city’s highlights. The city’s architecture is a testament to its gritty history that has shaped it into the city it is today. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. Join the Warsaw+ optional excursion to delight in a delicious local lunch, a visit to the dreamy Lazienki Park and a tour of the fascinating Praga District.
Guided tour of Warsaw: Join a seasoned local guide for a city tour of Warsaw. Gain insight into the fascinating and turbulent history as you walk the streets. Admire Gothic churches, Neoclassical Palaces, modern skyscrapers and stark Soviet-era buildings. Highlights include the Royal Castle, the Palace of Culture and Science and the reconstructed Old Town which was rebuilt after the war based on 18th-century paintings by Italian artist Canaletto.
Breakfast
Hotel
Experience the highlights and hidden gems of Warsaw. Enjoy a local lunch, visit Lazienki Park and tour the colourful, historic Praga District.
Today is the final day of your group Baltic States tour and vacation in Warsaw. Enjoy a final breakfast with your tour group, and get ready to head back home. We hope you have had an incredible time exploring Europe from Helsinki to Warsaw and hope to see you back on an Expat Explore coach again very soon!
Breakfast
We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard.
A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in Helsinki and Warsaw book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.
Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Explore the centuries-old splendour of Suomenlinna Fortress on a guided tour of the islands, including access to Ehrensvärd Museum and a light lunch!
Take a ferry outside the city to experience the centuries-old splendour of Suomenlinna Fortress. Embark on a locally guided tour of the impressive islands, including entrance to the Ehrensvärd Museum for a look at 18th-century life. Enjoy a light lunch with breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea before returning to Helsinki on a Water Bus. This optional excursion includes all transport and entry passes, as well as a packed lunch bag.
Please note: This optional excursion requires a minimum number of participants to take place. Your tour leader will provide more information.
Spend an evening discovering Helsinki's awe-inspiring attractions! Marvel at spectacular views and architecture before tasting some local cuisine.
Spend an evening discovering Helsinki's awe-inspiring, contemporary attractions! Visit the impressive Amos Rex for a photo stop, spend time at the stunning Temppeliaukio Church and marvel at the views from the Tower of the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Capture incredible photos of the Sibelius Monument and enjoy tasting Finnish food at Cafe Regatta while admiring its spectacular sea views.
Experience the highlights and hidden gems of Warsaw. Enjoy a local lunch, visit Lazienki Park and tour the colourful, historic Praga District.
Experience the highlights of Warsaw, from its royal history to its vibrant arts scene. Start this tour with an authentic taste of Poland and enjoy a delicious Pierogi (Polish dumplings) lunch. Then, head to Lazienki Park and learn all about its grand palaces and Old Orangery while admiring the stunning architecture and lush gardens. After, take in sweeping views of the city from the top of the Copernicus Science Centre. Finally, embark on a guided tour of the Praga District. This neighbourhood is a bit of a hidden gem and a hub for artists and performers. Stroll through Praga’s colourful, street-art lined streets, admire its striking cathedrals, visit the historic Bazar Różyckiego market place and enjoy free time for dinner.
2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
Start Date / End Date | Flexible Booking | Status | Price Per Person |
31 Dec 2024 - 09 Jan 2025 | Specialised festive version of itinerary | ||
03 Jun 2025 - 12 Jun 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
22 Jul 2025 - 31 Jul 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
12 Aug 2025 - 21 Aug 2025 | SOLD OUT! | ||
26 Aug 2025 - 04 Sep 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
23 Sep 2025 - 02 Oct 2025 | SOLD OUT! | ||
07 Oct 2025 - 16 Oct 2025 | Book now with low deposit |
For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre.
Note: As the 31 December 2024 departure date takes place over the festive season, the itinerary will feature special festive experiences! Click here to view.
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Discover five unique countries over 10 days. This Helsinki tour has been expertly tailored to take in the best of Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. Destinations in Northern Europe and the Baltics (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) are home to fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, bustling cities, diverse cultures and tons of hidden gems! Many of these countries are more “off-the-beaten-track” when compared to their tourist hotspot neighbours in Western Europe, allowing you to experience top attractions minus the cumbersome crowds!
Start your journey and tour Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital city which is a hotspot for design and architecture, before crossing the Gulf of Finland by ferry. Then it's time to explore the three Baltic states. These former members of the Soviet Republic have withstood occupations and wars. And the history is palpable all around! Explore capital cities like Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius; each with its own diverse traditions, cultures and languages. Enjoy drives through the fairy-tale-like landscapes complete with castles, lakes and forests. Next up on the itinerary is Poland where you’ll join local guides and tour Warsaw and Gdansk before finishing up this whirlwind trip.
Highlights include free days in Helsinki and Gdansk and a visit to the mysterious Hill of Crosses in Lithuania - a hill covered with over 200,000 crosses, carvings and shrines!
Meet new people, see iconic sights and travel affordably, conveniently and safely on Expat Explore’s modern coaches, all the way from Helsinki to Warsaw.
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