Exploring Lithuania from Riga: A Day Trip to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava
If you’re looking for a way to stretch your legs outside the Latvian capital and experience a touch of Lithuania’s unique charm, this day trip from Riga is a compelling choice. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions point to a well-rounded experience that combines spiritual symbolism, architectural beauty, and local culture—all in a manageable 5 to 6 hours.
What we love about this trip? First, the opportunity to visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, a place that’s both visually stunning and spiritually meaningful. Second, the chance to see Latvia’s largest baroque palace in Jelgava, an architectural highlight that’s worth the short drive. Lastly, the chance to enjoy guided walks and photo stops that make exploring easy and engaging.
One potential downside? The tour’s duration means you won’t have hours to linger at each location, and weather conditions can influence the experience—especially at the Hill of Crosses, which is best appreciated in good weather. Still, this trip is ideal for those with a curiosity for Baltic history and beautiful scenery who value efficient, well-organized excursions.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and cultural depth, especially if visiting both Latvia and Lithuania appeals to your sense of adventure. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided tours that balance information with flexibility, and who don’t mind a bit of walking.
Key Points
- Visit the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site with over 200,000 crosses, offering an emotional and striking visual experience.
- Enjoy a guided walk in Jelgava, including outside visits to the Jelgava Palace and sculpture park on Post Island.
- Learn the history behind the pilgrimage and the significance of the crosses from your knowledgeable guide.
- Photograph and mark your country on the map at the Hill of Crosses, adding a personal touch to this meaningful site.
- See the impressive Jelgava Palace, Latvia’s biggest baroque building, and walk across the new pedestrian bridge.
- Optional inside visits to the church tower and inside Jelgava Palace are available (tickets not included).
- Relax with included coffee breaks and free toilets, making this a comfortable day out.
- Group size varies, with small groups or private options, ensuring a more personalized experience.
An In-Depth Review: The Highlights of the Trip
Looking for more options in Jelgava? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at Pastry shop “Briedisi 17”, conveniently reachable by tram 10 from Grecinieku iela, with the stop at Satiksmes iela. From here, the group departs for a scenic drive through the Lithuanian countryside. The transportation, typically by air-conditioned vehicle, is comfortable for the approximately 5 to 6-hour journey, including travel time to and from Riga.
The Hill of Crosses: A Spiritual and Visual Feast
The main highlight, undoubtedly, is the Hill of Crosses. This site is renowned for its over 200,000 crosses, created over decades by pilgrims and visitors alike. As you wander through its winding paths, you’ll see crosses of all sizes—some tiny tokens, others towering structures—each representing a prayer, promise, or remembrance. The site’s history is deeply rooted in religious tradition and Lithuanian resistance, making it not just a tourist stop but a poignant symbol of perseverance.
According to reviewers, the visually stunning nature of the hill makes it a must-see. One reviewer, Chelby, mentioned that the architecture and the history of the place were “really beautiful,” and emphasized that the Hill of Crosses is definitely a must-see. However, she pointed out that her visit in December was freezing cold, so dressing warmly is essential.
Personal Touch: Marking Your Country on the Map
One of the tour’s charming features is the chance to put a pin on the map to represent your country or region. This personalizes the experience and makes the visit more memorable, especially for those interested in the symbolism of crossing borders and connecting cultures.
More Great Tours NearbyJelgava: Latvia’s Baroque Gem
After the spiritual stop, the journey continues into Latvia’s largest baroque palace in Jelgava. From the outside, Jelgava Palace impresses with its grand architecture, and the surroundings include a sculpture park on Post Island and a new pedestrian bridge that enhances the scenic walk.
The guided walk in Jelgava is appreciated for its informative narration. One reviewer, Beatrice, praised her guide Maarten for being “very good and helpful,” adding that the hill of crosses was very interesting and worth visiting. During good weather, there’s also a chance to go up the church tower or walk to the watchtower where wild horses graze, offering panoramic views of the area.
Inside Visits and Optional Extras
While the tour mainly focuses on outside views, there’s the possibility to visit inside Jelgava Palace and the church tower—though tickets for these are not included. For those interested in architecture and history, these add-ons provide a deeper layer to the experience.
Food, Toilets, and Comfort
Included in the tour are coffee stops and access to free toilets either in Jelgava or at the gas station, making the day a lot more comfortable. Travelers often appreciate these practical touches, especially on longer excursions.
Guides and Language Options
According to the reviews, the guides are highly proficient, especially in English and Dutch (rated 5/5). German and French are also offered, albeit at a slightly lower level of proficiency (3/5). The guides seem to strike a good balance between informative narration and friendly interaction, with one reviewer mentioning that their guide Maarten was “very good and helpful.”
Practical Considerations
- Duration: 5-6 hours, which is perfect for a day trip but not enough for deep exploration at each stop.
- Group size: Small groups or private tours are available, enhancing the personalized feel.
- Cost: While the exact pricing isn’t stated, the overall value lies in the organized transport, guided walks, and key sights included—making it a worthwhile investment for a half-day adventure.
- Weather: The tour is suitable for all weather conditions, but good weather will greatly enhance the experience at the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava’s outdoor sights.
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, snacks, water, and rain gear are recommended, especially given the walking involved and unpredictable weather.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful glimpse into Lithuanian and Latvian culture without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. It suits those interested in religious symbols, architecture, and scenic countryside. If you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate the stories behind the sites, and if you love taking photos, the landscapes and monuments are picture-perfect.
However, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the walking involved and site access vary.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For the price and the scope of sights covered, this tour offers strong value. The guided aspect and included stops make it a hassle-free way to tick off some Baltic highlights in just a few hours. The knowledgeable guides and stunning sights make it worthwhile, especially if you’re interested in cultural history and architecture.
The Hill of Crosses alone makes this trip worthwhile—they say it’s “definitely a must-see,” and many reviews confirm that the site’s powerful atmosphere leaves a lasting impression. Jelgava’s palace and sculpture park add a touch of Latvian grandeur and outdoor beauty, rounding out the visit nicely.
This trip will suit those craving an efficient way to see highlights without rushing, and who enjoy guided experiences with local insights. It’s especially great if you want a taste of Lithuania’s spiritual and historical significance combined with Latvian scenery—all in one manageable day.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, but good weather will enhance outdoor experiences like the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava’s scenic spots. Be prepared with rain gear if needed.
How long does the trip last?
The tour is designed to be 5 to 6 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.
Can I visit Jelgava Palace inside?
Inside visits are possible but require separate tickets, which are not included in the tour price.
What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, camera, snacks, water, and rain gear are recommended. Don’t forget your passport or ID card.
Are there guided tours in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak Dutch (rated 5/5), German, French, and English. Proficiency varies, but the guides are generally friendly and knowledgeable.
Is this tour good for children?
It’s suitable for most travelers; however, those with mobility issues may find walking challenging. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.
What’s the main highlight of the tour?
The Hill of Crosses is the standout feature, offering a unique, visually striking, and spiritually meaningful experience that’s often described as unforgettable.