Siauliai may not be as bustling as Vilnius or Klaipeda, but it offers some truly memorable tours and experiences that are perfect for travelers wanting a deeper look at the Baltic region. What makes Siauliai stand out is its accessibility to some of Lithuania’s most iconic sights, like the Hill of Crosses, which practically calls to pilgrims and curious travelers alike. We love tours that combine sightseeing with culture, and one we particularly recommend is the From Riga: Vilnius One-Way Tour with Sightseeing Stops. Not only does it provide a scenic transfer, but it also visits impressive sites like Bauska Castle and the Rundale Palace — giving you a taste of both Latvian and Lithuanian history along the way.
If you’re after a more focused experience, exploring the Hill of Crosses is a must-do. A small-group 2-hour private tour offers a chance to marvel at the over 200,000 crosses, effigies, and statues brought by Catholic pilgrims over centuries. For those interested in a comprehensive journey that includes both the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace, a private full-day tour from Vilnius to Riga makes for a memorable and hassle-free experience. Lastly, if you’re traveling between Vilnius and Riga, a train journey with stops at Siauliai and the Hill of Crosses makes a flexible alternative to bus or car trips, with this train route allowing for sightseeing at your own pace.
1. From Riga: Vilnius One-Way Tour with Sightseeing Stops
At number one on our list, this 9-hour scenic transfer combines comfortable transportation with sightseeing at some of the Baltic’s most compelling spots. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transport and prefer a relaxed, guided experience. The tour starts from Riga and heads towards Vilnius, with stops at Bauska Castle, a medieval fortress with great views, and the Rundale Palace, Lithuania’s answer to Versailles with its ornate Baroque architecture. It also includes a stop at the Hill of Crosses, one of the region’s most photographed landmarks, where over 200,000 crosses create a striking landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to enjoy a seamless transfer while seeing some of the most interesting sights along the way. The reviews highlight the quality of the guide and the comfort of the vehicle, with comments like “interesting guide, comfortable ride,” and “highly recommended for a tight schedule.” The combination of scenic countryside and cultural landmarks makes this a great pick for travelers who want a stress-free way to get from Latvia to Lithuania while experiencing the highlights of both countries.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those who want to cover a lot without the hassle of public transport, making it ideal for busy travelers with limited time.
2. Siauliai 2-Hour Private Tour to Hill of Crosses
A quick but immersive experience, the 2-hour private tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see the famous Hill of Crosses. This pilgrimage site, with over 200,000 crosses, offers a powerful visual experience. Your local guide will lead you through the site, sharing stories about its history, significance, and the pilgrims who have left crosses for centuries.
What makes this tour unique is its small-group format, ensuring a personalized experience. Reviewers rave about the ease of the pickup and how the guide, Simas, shares extensive knowledge about the site and Siauliai in general. If you’re interested in extending your visit, the guide is flexible and can show you other local sights, like the university or nearby cathedral. This tour is best suited for travelers with limited time but a desire to understand the spiritual and cultural importance of this remarkable site.
Bottom Line: A perfect fit for travelers craving a meaningful visit to the Hill of Crosses without committing a full day, thanks to its intimate and flexible approach.
3. (Vilnius) Siauliai train station-Jelgava train station(Riga)
This 3-hour train journey offers a unique way to see the Baltic states while traveling at your own pace. Starting from Vilnius, you take the train to Siauliai, where you’ll meet your guide for a visit to the Hill of Crosses. After exploring the site, you’ll continue by car to Jelgava and then catch a train back to Riga. It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy independent travel but want the comfort of guided visits along the way.
The highlight here is the flexibility — you can take your time at the Hill of Crosses and enjoy a relaxed sightseeing experience without the rush of bus tours. It also offers the chance to leave a cross or mark your visit on the site, adding a personal touch. The reviews mention how smooth the logistics are and praise the personal attention from the guide. Because of its DIY element, it’s suitable for travelers comfortable with train schedules and looking for an authentic, low-pressure experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers who appreciate the combination of guided visits and free time, with the added convenience of train travel.
4. Explore the Baltics: Riga – Vilnius / Vilnius – Riga Daytrip
This full-day private tour offers a tailored experience exploring the highlights of both Latvia and Lithuania. Starting from either Riga or Vilnius, you’ll travel in style and comfort, making stops at key sights, notably the Hill of Crosses. The tour emphasizes insider tips and local knowledge, giving you a more personal connection to the region than you’d get with larger group tours.
What makes this experience stand out is the customizable itinerary—perfect if you want to focus on specific interests like history, architecture, or religious sites. The highlight is visiting the Hill of Crosses, where you can explore the thousands of crosses, and then journey to Rundale Palace, Latvia’s Baroque jewel. It’s especially suited for travelers with only a day to see both countries and who want a flexible itinerary that covers more than just one site.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want an intimate, guided experience covering Latvia and Lithuania in one day, with plenty of insider insights.
5. From Vilnius: Hill of Crosses & Rundale Palace to Riga
This private 8-hour tour is a comprehensive option for those wanting to combine multiple highlights in one day. Starting from Vilnius, it visits the famous Hill of Crosses, then continues to the Rundale Palace, the baroque masterpiece in Latvia, before heading on to Riga. The private guide ensures a personalized experience, with commentary tailored to your interests.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on in-depth exploration. Visitors rave about the chance to see the world-famous Hill of Crosses and the inside tour of Rundale Palace, which is often called Latvia’s Versailles. The convenience of door-to-door transfer, coupled with the flexibility of a private guide, makes this a premium option suitable for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of cultural insight.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a full, personalized day tour with visits to two of the region’s most iconic sites, ideal for those with a flexible schedule and a love for grandeur.
How to Choose Your Perfect Siauliai Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your time, budget, and interests. For a straightforward, scenic transfer with highlights, the Vilnius transfer tour is excellent. If your main goal is to see the Hill of Crosses, the private 2-hour tour offers intimacy and depth. Those seeking a full-day experience combining multiple sites might prefer the full-day Baltics trip.
Also consider your comfort level with independent travel. The train-based options suit those comfortable with schedules, while private tours offer more guidance and flexibility. Timing is another factor — summer and early fall are best for outdoor sightseeing, but check availability and book early during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Siauliai’s tours range from quick visits to comprehensive journeys through the Baltics. For a scenic transfer with cultural stops, the Vilnius to Vilnius transfer tour is a solid choice. If you’re interested in the powerful symbolism of the Hill of Crosses, the private tour provides a meaningful visit in just a couple of hours. For those who want to maximize their time, the full-day options to Rundale Palace and Riga, or the combined Baltic experience, are excellent.
No matter which you choose, these tours offer a chance to see some of Lithuania’s and Latvia’s most notable sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Be sure to book early, especially in high season, and tailor your choice to your pace and interests — the Baltics won’t disappoint.