Jelgava offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that appeal to history lovers, culture seekers, and those looking for a memorable day trip. While many travelers visit for its impressive Jelgava Palace, some of the most unique adventures involve crossing borders and exploring iconic landmarks like the Hill of Crosses. The tours listed here stand out because they combine rich stories with practical logistics—whether it’s a half-day jaunt or a full-day excursion. We especially like the shared tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses, which balances a guided experience with free time to soak in the sights and take memorable photos.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find options that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you want a quick overview or an in-depth exploration, Jelgava’s nearby attractions are well worth the effort. Now, let’s explore the best options in detail.
Quick Overview
The list below features three top tours and experiences that help you experience Jelgava’s highlights and its surroundings. They include a half-day shared tour to the Hill of Crosses from Riga, a flexible day trip from Riga’s Jelgava train station, and a comprehensive day tour that combines both the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava. Each offers a different mix of guided insights, free time, and sightseeing, making it easier for you to choose based on your travel style and schedule.
At number 1, this shared tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses is perfect if you want a guided experience with a manageable time commitment. The tour covers 5.5 hours, featuring visits to the Hill of Crosses, a place that symbolizes faith and resilience with over 200,000 crosses. You’ll start at St. Peter’s Church in Riga, then hop into a comfortable van for a 70-minute drive into Lithuania.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed itinerary and the expert commentary from your guide, who shares interesting facts and stories along the way. After a stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border for a photo, you’ll arrive at the Hill of Crosses where you have free time to explore, walk among the crosses, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Afterwards, a brief photo stop outside Jelgava Palace adds a touch of Latvian elegance before heading back to Riga.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the smooth organization. One reviewer called it “highly recommended,” emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and the well-paced free time.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a concise, well-organized way to see one of the region’s most iconic symbols of faith, with enough free time to explore at your own pace.
2. From Riga Jelgava train station: hill of crosses, Rundale
Next on our list is a flexible day trip from Riga’s Jelgava train station that combines a visit to the Hill of Crosses and the Rundale Palace. This tour is ideal if you prefer to organize your own timing but still want guided insights. It lasts between 5 and 8 hours, and you’ll be picked up right at the Jelgava train station.
The highlight is the guided tour of the Hill of Crosses, where over 200,000 crosses create a powerful visual statement. The guide shares background on the site’s significance, making your walk through the paths more meaningful. Afterward, you’ll head to Rundale Palace, a Baroque jewel often referred to as Latvia’s most beautiful palace. You get about 1.5 hours to explore the ornate rooms and gardens.
One traveler described the guide as “great” and appreciated the free time to enjoy the attractions at their own pace. Many find this tour offers good value because of the flexibility and comprehensive visits included.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting control over their schedule with expert commentary, this tour delivers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and personal exploration.
3. From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Day Trip and back
Finally, this day trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava offers a more comprehensive experience. Lasting around 5 to 6 hours, it’s slightly longer and includes both the spiritual pilgrimage site and the Latvian royal residence.
This tour provides a detailed walk at the Hill of Crosses, where over 200,000 crosses stand as a testament to faith and resistance. The guide explains the site’s history and the pilgrimage tradition. You’ll also get a chance to put a pin on the map to represent your country or region at the site, adding a personal touch. Then, a visit to the Jelgava Palace’s exterior showcases Latvia’s largest Baroque-style residence.
While reviews note that the pastry shop may not be English-speaking, the overall experience remains highly positive, with travelers calling the tour “really good” and praising the friendly guide. Keep in mind, winter visits can be cold, but the scenery is still stunning.
Bottom Line: This option is best for travelers who want a full picture of Latvia’s religious and royal sites in one trip, with the flexibility of a private or semi-private guide.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a Jelgava experience, consider your time availability, interest in history or spirituality, and budget. The shared tour to the Hill of Crosses suits those with limited time looking for a guided highlight. If you prefer more control over your schedule and want to combine multiple attractions, the train station day trip is a great choice. For a full, immersive day that covers both religious and royal sites, the longer day trip provides a comprehensive experience.
Book early, especially during peak travel seasons, and always check the availability for your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Jelgava offers a variety of tours that reveal its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. The shared trip to the Hill of Crosses is a streamlined, insightful option, while the train station day trip gives flexibility. The full-day Jelgava and Hill of Crosses tour is perfect if you want an in-depth day covering more ground.
For those eager to explore the iconic Hill of Crosses, or to enjoy the grandeur of Rundale Palace, these tours provide a practical way to make the most of your visit. Whichever you choose, booking early will help you secure a spot. Happy planning, and enjoy your trip to Jelgava and beyond!