Taking a day trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses offers a unique glimpse into a powerful symbol of faith and resilience. This tour, operated by Latvian Gem, promises a mix of history, scenic stops, and personal moments — all wrapped up in a comfortable shared vehicle.
What we especially like about this experience is its blend of cultural insight, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to leave a cross in a place visited by the Pope. Plus, the stops in Jelgava and the Latvia-Lithuania border provide a little extra flavor to the journey. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured, so if you prefer total spontaneity, this might not be your perfect fit.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, faith, picturesque scenery, and efficient travel. If a half-day trip packed with meaningful stops sounds appealing, then this could be a great option for your Baltic itinerary.
Key Points
- Convenient Half-Day Trip: Perfect for those with limited time wanting a meaningful experience.
- Comfortable Transport: Small group, air-conditioned van with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
- Cultural Significance: Visit to the famous Hill of Crosses, a unique Lithuanian pilgrimage site.
- Additional Stops: Scenic photo stops at the Latvia-Lithuania border and Jelgava Palace.
- Opportunity to Leave a Cross: Personalize your visit by leaving a cross or purchasing one locally.
- Authentic Insights: Learn about the history and symbolism behind the site from the guide.
The Journey: What to Expect
This tour offers a well-rounded day with some fascinating stops in addition to the main event at the Hill of Crosses. From the moment you meet your driver outside St. Peter’s Church in Riga Old Town, the experience begins with anticipation.
The group, generally small and intimate, sets off for a roughly 2-hour drive toward Lithuania. The vehicle is comfortable, making the journey even more enjoyable as your guide shares stories about the area’s history, culture, and the significance of the crosses. We loved the way the guide, whose name appears to be Jānis from reviews, kept the atmosphere lively and informative without feeling rushed.
Looking for more options in Jelgava? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Stops That Enrich the Experience
1. The Latvia-Lithuania Border Photo Stop
On the way, you’ll pause at the Latvia-Lithuania border for a quick photo. This stop is more than just a snapshot — it’s a moment to reflect on the crossing from one country to another and the journey’s symbolic nature.
2. Jelgava Palace
Next, a short stop in Jelgava provides a chance for a photo outside the Jelgava Palace, one of the largest Baroque palaces in the Baltics. The palace, with its grand architecture, offers a scenic backdrop and a glimpse into the region’s royal past.
More Great Tours Nearby3. The Main Attraction: The Hill of Crosses
After around 70 minutes of travel, you arrive at the Hill of Crosses. Here, you’ll have approximately one hour of free time to walk among the hundreds of thousands of crosses. The sight of crosses stretching across the hill is breathtaking—an evocative testament to people’s faith, hope, and perseverance.
You can leave your own cross here if you wish—many travelers do. Local sellers offer small crosses for purchase if you want a keepsake, or you might bring your own from home. The site was once visited by Pope John Paul II, adding to its spiritual significance.
Reviews note that the site is highly moving — one traveler called it “a truly unique symbol of faith.” People often comment on the emotional impact of seeing so many personal symbols of devotion.
4. Return Journey with Scenic Views
On the way back, your guide continues to share stories, and you’ll pass through Jelgava again, with a photo stop before heading back to Riga. The drive offers a good chance to reflect on the experience and enjoy the scenery.
Practical Details and Value
The tour duration of 5.5 hours balances sightseeing and travel comfortably. It’s priced reasonably given the inclusion of transportation, guide, and entry to several sights. The small group size means more personalized attention, and the vehicle is described as comfortable and suitable for sightseeing.
The opportunity to leave a cross adds a personal touch and a sense of participation in the site’s spiritual tradition. If you’re interested, you can buy a cross locally or bring one from home—an easy way to make the visit more memorable.
The guide’s storytelling has been praised, with reviewers noting Jānis as particularly kind and informative. The printed materials and leaflets provided on the journey also enrich your understanding of the sites visited.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for culture and faith enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Lithuanian symbols of resilience. It offers a meaningful, photo-worthy trip that’s suitable for most fitness levels, as it involves some walking but no strenuous activity.
It’s a good choice for travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. If you enjoy small group tours with local insights and a personal touch, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace and authentic feel of this trip.
The Sum Up
This 5.5-hour tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses delivers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, scenic stops, and spiritual significance. The comfortable transport, engaging guide, and meaningful opportunities to participate make it a worthwhile addition to your Baltic adventure.
The ability to leave a cross and the stops at Jelgava Palace and the border add extra layers of interest, transforming a simple day trip into a memorable experience. The tour offers very good value for money, especially for those who enjoy learning about local traditions and seeing iconic symbols firsthand.
Overall, it’s a practical, enriching choice for travelers who want a taste of Lithuanian faith and history without spending a full day on the road. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a curious traveler, this trip offers a meaningful window into Lithuania’s resilient spirit.
FAQ
How long is the drive from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
The journey takes about 2 hours each way, making it a manageable half-day trip.
Can I leave a cross at the site?
Yes, the tour offers the opportunity to leave a cross. You can buy one locally or bring your own.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally appropriate for most ages, especially since it involves some walking but no strenuous activity.
What stops are included on the way back?
On the return, there are stops at the Latvia-Lithuania border for photos and in Jelgava for a quick look at Jelgava Palace.
How many people are in a typical group?
While the exact number isn’t specified, the tour is described as a small group, which allows for more personal interaction.
What language is the tour guide available in?
Guides speak English, Latvian, Lettish, and Russian.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. The tour is focused on sightseeing and cultural stops.
What is the tour price?
Pricing details aren’t provided here, but given the inclusions, it’s a good value for a half-day trip with transport, guide, and key stops.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is it possible to book this tour last minute?
Availability depends on the day, but it’s advisable to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
This detailed, balanced review should help you decide whether this tour to the Hill of Crosses aligns with your travel plans. For those seeking a meaningful cultural experience with comfortable logistics, it stands out as a worthwhile half-day adventure from Riga.
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