Vilinus, Riga or Tallin?

I was in all 3 cities a couple of years ago and if you are thinking of spending your 4 days in just one of them, then don't. I might take flak for this, but one day in each city would be all I'd allocate. Riga was the most interesting, partly because of the art-nouveau architecture of some buildings, Vilnius I liked the least. Not a part of the world I feel I ever have to visit again, but if I had family roots there I would no doubt be more drawn to it.

I've only been to Vilnius, so I can't compare which city is best (I hate the term "must-see"). I enjoyed my visit and I found the compact, Baroque-heavy old town one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Granted, there are few museums of any note, but it's a very pleasant place to stroll and people-watch. Plus, the food was delicious and pretty cheap. The tourist infrastructure here was pretty undeveloped as of two years ago. Depending on your perspective, this can be a good or bad thing. I probably wouldn't spend more than two nights in Vilnius, but if you have time, give it a visit.

All 3 places have their charms. The answer I think depends in some part on your travel options. Are you flying into one and out the other? Where are you planning on first arriving?

If I remember correctly, the distance between the pair of cities is somewhere around 5-6 hours - others will correct me or check out the Eurolines website.

We loved all three cities but given your time available I would stick to two though you could see all three if you push it.

Tallinn was very compact but definitely a must see. Riga's architecture was wonderful. Vilnius and close by Trakai were great. I would choose 2 cities - so either Tallinn & Riga or Riga and Vilnius - depending on where you start. Enjoy.

Estonia was my favorite country, then Lithuania and Latvia.

Estonia has some great towns you can explore as does Lithuania. I wasn't too fond of Riga. I spent 5 days in Lithuania without trying.

4 days in one might be too much. Riga and Vilnius could be combined easily enough. We were in both recently and enjoyed each in different ways. The bus was a nice 4 hour trip through the country side between the 2 if you could fly into one and out of the other.

Vilnius--B&B Florens--reasonable and bkfst included--1.5 blocks from the bus station.
Tons of good resturants, great walking and people watching. Svyturys beer and the fried bread can't be beat--Check out the Lonely Planet Eastern Europe for recomendations on restaurants.

Riga--Rented an apartment. Lido's had good food--
Take the train to Jurmela (sp?)

I would choose one city and take day trips out from it to see the country. Do a google search for "Tallinn sights" and do the same for the other two cities. Research what is appealing to YOU in each town.

Knowing those countries, I would NEVER try to visit all three when you have limited time. It will rush you too much and make your trip less enjoyable.

You must choose to travel at a leisurely pace and plan a time for rest each day. And only you can determine how much time you need.

If you choose Vilnius, I found this place reasonable, well situated, and if not luxurious, comfortable, clean and adequate:

http://domusmaria.vilnensis.lt/

I would best describe Domus Maria as a cross between a hotel and parish guest-house. It lies within easy walking distance of the city's main train station. The KGB museum is about a 20-30 minute walk distance. Not too close, but this is one of the most scenic city walks in all of Europe.

If your 4 days includes the day you travel from Berlin, and the day you return to Berlin, I suggest go to only one country and go on day trips there. I recommend going to Tallin. Read about it in the book "Rick Steves' SCANDINAVIA".

Yes, we stayed at this same place when in Vilnius and can recommend it.