From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Enchanting Jelgava Group Tour

Planning a trip from Riga and looking for a way to see some of Latvia’s and Lithuania’s most iconic sights in one day? This 7-hour guided group tour offers a balanced mix of spirituality, history, and small-town charm, led by enthusiastic guides ensuring you get the most out of each stop. Whether you’re into sacred sites, picturesque towns, or just want an easy, well-organized day out, this tour covers all bases.

What really makes this experience stand out are three things: First, the insightful guides who bring history and stories to life. Second, the stunning visuals of the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava’s charming streets. And third, the decent value, especially considering the included transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and a delicious local lunch. The only downside? It’s a long day with plenty of driving, which might not suit someone looking for a very relaxed or slow-paced trip.

This tour is perfect if you want a rundown of Baltic culture, history, and spiritual sites without the hassle of planning or driving yourself. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to see two countries in one go, and those who appreciate engaging guides and small group sizes for a more personal experience.

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Key Points

Balanced itinerary includes both religious sites and small town charm.
Expert guides enrich the experience with stories and background.
Comfortable transport with WiFi, bottled water, and timely stops.
Flexible lunch options at a local restaurant offering Latvian or modern cuisine.
Authentic experiences at the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava.
Great reviews for organization, guide quality, and value.

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Overview of the Tour Experience

This group tour from Riga is a thoughtfully curated day trip designed to give you a taste of the Baltic region’s spiritual, historical, and cultural highlights. It’s operated by Latvia Guide Tours, a company with a reputation for engaging, well-organized excursions. You’ll spend roughly 7 hours exploring two countries—Latvia and Lithuania—without the stress of navigating or worrying about transport.

The day kicks off in front of Riga Cathedral, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan or van. From there, the journey begins with a scenic drive, giving you your first glimpses of the countryside and small towns along the way. The group size tends to be intimate, enhancing the personal touch, and WiFi on board helps you stay connected during the trip.

The tour includes strategic stops for photos and short breaks, which keeps everyone refreshed. It’s evident from reviews that the guides, like Janis and Elvis, are passionate and knowledgeable, often sharing stories beyond the basic script—adding that extra layer of insight that turns sightseeing into storytelling.

Looking for more options in Riga? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Riga Dome (Rīgas Doms)

Your journey begins at the Riga Dome Cathedral, a significant historical and architectural landmark. It’s a convenient meeting point and provides a glimpse into the city’s religious history. From here, you’ll board the van, ready to set off for the Lithuanian border.

Border Crossing and Photo Stop

After around an hour of travel, the group crosses the Latvia-Lithuania border. This moment is a fun photo opportunity—an experience many reviewers have appreciated as a line between two nations but with shared Baltic culture.

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Hill of Crosses

The highlight of the day is the Hill of Crosses, located just north of Siauliai, Lithuania. This site is a powerful display of faith, with thousands of crosses adorning the hill, some of them quite large. Visitors often comment on the sense of peace and reflection that emanates here.

At this stop, your guide will share stories about its history and significance. Many reviewers mention that the 80-minute guided tour is very informative; Elvis, in particular, has been praised for his storytelling and enthusiasm. You’ll have ample time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere—something that Kristy especially appreciated, noting that it was interesting and well-paced.

There's plenty more to explore in Riga

Jelgava: Latvia’s Charming Small Town

On the way back, the tour makes a stop in Jelgava, a lovely Latvian town with a rich history. Here, you’ll stroll along the promenade and visit Jelgava Castle. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the guide’s stories and the beautiful setting of the castle and town.

The highlight might be the lunch break at “Silva”, a local tea house where you get a 1-hour meal with a choice between Latvian traditional dishes or modern cuisine. Many reviews rave about how well-organized and tasty the food is—surprising for the price.

Additional Sightseeing

The tour also includes a brief stop at St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral, a gorgeous religious site with beautiful architecture. The Driksas Promenade offers a quick walk to enjoy local scenery, and Jelgava’s architecture and history are further explored during the guided tour of the castle.

Return to Riga

After a full day of exploring, the journey ends back at Riga Cathedral, with plenty of time to reflect on what you’ve seen—and maybe share some photos and stories with fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides

Time and again, reviews mention the guides’ expertise and friendly approach. Janis and Elvis receive particular praise for their storytelling, engaging manner, and willingness to answer questions. Kristy’s review highlights Elvis’s politeness and informativeness, which made the experience memorable. Many say their guides went beyond the script, sharing extra facts and small surprises, like tasting Riga Balsam at the end.

Stunning Visuals and Historic Sites

The Hill of Crosses is an awe-inspiring sight, with thousands of crosses creating a powerful tableau of faith and resilience. Visitors often mention the serenity and the opportunity to walk close to the crosses, capturing memorable photos. Jelgava’s castle and the cathedral provide authentic, historic backdrops that contrast nicely with the natural beauty of the Lithuanian countryside.

Good Value for Money

At a price that includes transport, WiFi, bottled water, and a substantial lunch, many reviewers feel this tour offers excellent value. The small group size and guided experience enhance the overall sense of quality. Some mention that the tour’s efficiency allows for plenty of sights within a manageable timeframe, avoiding the fatigue that can come with self-guided trips.

Authentic Local Experience

From the stops at local eateries to the detailed stories shared by guides, this tour provides a glimpse into everyday life and cultural traditions. Reviewers have appreciated the chance to compare small-town Latvia with Lithuanian sites, making the trip feel more genuine than a typical tourist bus.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport or ID for border crossings—the border may ask for it, and it’s essential for re-entry into Latvia.
Wear comfortable shoes—many stops involve walking on uneven terrain or cobblestone streets.
Plan for a full day; the tour lasts around 7 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.
Pack some snacks if you prefer to supplement the included lunch, although the restaurant options are well-rated.
Stay hydrated—bottled water is supplied, but it’s good to have some extra if you’re a thirsty traveler.
Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

FAQs about the Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly tailored for kids, children over 1 year old who enjoy walking and are comfortable on a bus ride should be fine. Be mindful that the day is long and involves some walking at the stops.

What should I bring for border crossing?
A valid passport or ID card is needed for crossing into Lithuania and back into Latvia. No additional documentation is mentioned, but it’s best to have your travel documents handy.

Can I choose a different lunch option?
The tour offers a choice between traditional Latvian and modern cuisine at a local restaurant. Specific dietary requirements aren’t detailed, so it’s best to inquire directly with the operator if you have special needs.

How many people are usually in the group?
The reviews suggest small group sizes, often around five guests, which allows for a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned minivans or vans, and reviews praise the cleanliness and comfort of the vehicles.

What if I want to stay longer at certain sites?
The itinerary is structured with specific time blocks, but the guides are generally flexible if you communicate your interest in spending extra time.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years, likely due to the long day and walking involved.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions or activities?
All listed stops and the guided tour are included in the price. Food and drinks during lunch are also covered unless you opt to buy extra snacks or beverages.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Riga strikes a strong chord for travelers wanting to squeeze as much as possible into a manageable and engaging package. It balances history, faith, and local culture with the comfort of modern transportation and expert guides. The visually stunning Hill of Crosses is undoubtedly the star, but Jelgava’s charm and the overall organization elevate the experience.

The tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making it clear that you’ll be in good hands. The included lunch and small group setting add to the sense of value and intimacy. It’s a perfect choice for curious travelers eager to see two countries, explore meaningful sites, and enjoy a hassle-free day.

If you’re after a well-paced, informative, and authentic Baltic experience, this tour offers just that—making it an easy recommendation.

Whether you’re into religious sites, historic towns, or simply want a stress-free way to see Lithuania and Latvia, this trip delivers on many fronts. It’s best suited for those who appreciate good guides, authentic sites, and a touch of local flavor, all wrapped into one memorable day.