If you’re considering a day trip from Riga that goes beyond the city’s charming streets, this shared tour to the Hill of Crosses might just be what you’re after. It’s a well-rated experience that offers a mix of cultural insight, scenic stops, and the chance to see one of Lithuania’s most iconic sights. We’ve looked into what travelers love and what might give you pause, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.
What really stands out is the passionate guide who shares stories about the site’s significance, and the opportunity to leave your own cross at the hill — a meaningful gesture. The inclusion of stops at Jelgava Palace and a border photo opportunity also adds a nice variety to the day. That said, a potential drawback is the long bus ride—about two hours each way—which might be tiring if you’re not a fan of long travel days. But overall, this tour tends to be best suited for those who enjoy cultural sights, scenic drives, and having a structured plan to maximize their time.
If you’re someone who appreciates a balanced mix of history, geography, and beautiful views, and you don’t mind a full day on the road, this experience could be a good fit. It’s especially attractive if you’re traveling solo or as part of a small group, and want a guided insight without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.
Key Points
- Convenient half-day trip from Riga, perfect for those with limited time
- Includes interesting stops at Jelgava Palace and the Latvia-Lithuania border
- Opportunity to leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses, adding a personal touch
- Learn about the site’s history from an English-speaking guide
- Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth ride
- Small group experience for a more personal touch
What You Can Expect from This Tour
This tour offers a thoughtful glimpse into Lithuanian culture and faith by taking you from Riga, Latvia, to the renowned Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. It’s a well-structured day, with about 2 hours of travel each way, which gives plenty of time for stories and scenic views. The guide’s role is key here — they’ll fill you in on the history and significance of each stop, making the scenery and sites come alive.
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Picking Up and Starting Your Journey
Your adventure begins at St. Peter’s Church in Riga’s Old Town, where you’ll meet your driver/guide. From there, it’s a comfortable ride in a small van, which feels intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized insights. The small group size keeps things cozy and friendly, which many reviewers appreciate.
The Scenic Stops Along the Way
The first stops are at Jelgava, where you’ll get a quick photo outside Jelgava Palace. It’s a neat chance to snap a picture of a grand Baroque building and stretch your legs a bit. The tour then takes you to the Latvia-Lithuania border, which offers a good photo opportunity — a simple but memorable way to mark the crossing from one country to another.
The Main Event: The Hill of Crosses
The highlight is, of course, the Hill of Crosses itself. Once you arrive, you’ll have about an hour of free time to walk around, soak in the sight of hundreds of thousands of crosses, and breathe in the spiritual atmosphere. The site is quite unique — a visual testament of faith and hope. Visitors often leave a cross of their own; you can purchase one on-site or bring your own if you wish. Many reviews mention how moving it is to add your own cross to the pile.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy the Hill of Crosses Matters
This site has been visited by notable figures, including Pope John Paul II, and continues to be a place of pilgrimage. The crosses symbolize the faith of people from around the world, making it a powerful and personal experience for visitors.
Looping Back with a Few More Sightings
After your visit, the journey continues with a stop in Jelgava, where you’ll pass through the city for a quick sightseeing moment. The drive back includes another border stop for a photo and about 50 minutes in transit to return to Riga. The tour wraps up back at your starting point, feeling like a full, well-paced trip.
How the Experience Adds Value
The inclusion of printouts and leaflets helps you learn more during the trip, especially if you’re curious about Lithuanian culture and the significance of the crosses. The driver/guide’s knowledge is highlighted in reviews — many travelers describe them as friendly and informative, which adds a lot to the overall experience.
The price point seems fair considering the transportation, guided insights, and the chance to stand at such a meaningful site. Since there are no meals or drinks included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.
Is It Worth Your Time?
Based on the glowing reviews, with a rating of 5 out of 5 from three travelers, most folks find this tour to be excellent value. Travelers like Stephan note the “very nice and good guide” and strongly recommend it. Another reviewer appreciated the kindness and informativeness of Jnis, the driver, and felt the trip was “worth every penny.”
The experience strikes a good balance — it’s not overly long, but offers enough stops and stories to keep things interesting. For those who enjoy learning about local culture, scenic drives, and visiting iconic landmarks, this is a solid choice.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a manageable half-day excursion with meaningful sights. It works well for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. If you’re interested in faith-based sites or love seeing unique symbols like the Crosses, you’ll find it especially compelling. You should be comfortable with about five to six hours of travel, including some time on the road, and be prepared for a fair amount of walking around the hill.
It’s a good pick if you’re in Riga but want to explore nearby Lithuania without committing to a full-day or private tour. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a bit of history, scenic stops, and cultural storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and free time at the Hill of Crosses.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the main entrance of St. Peter’s Church in Riga Old Town and returns there after the trip.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable car or van, suitable for small groups, to make the long drive as pleasant as possible.
Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely. You can leave your own cross or buy one on-site from local sellers.
What stops are included on the way?
Stops include Jelgava Palace for photos, a border photo stop, and a drive through Jelgava city.
Is there a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking driver/guide is included — they’ll share stories and historical context throughout the trip.
Are there options to purchase additional crosses?
Yes, local crosses are available for purchase during the visit.
Can I bring my own cross?
Yes, bringing your own cross is an option if you prefer.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the stops and sights are suitable for most travelers. Consider the length and walking involved if traveling with young children.
What is the price, and is it worth it?
While the exact price isn’t listed here, reviews suggest it offers good value for the experience provided — guided insights, scenic stops, and the meaningful visit to the Hill of Crosses.
5,5 Hour Shared Tour to Hill of Crosses from Riga
“Very nice and good guide. Tour is highly recommended.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized way to see a truly unique site in Lithuania from Riga, this tour provides a practical, memorable experience. The combination of scenic stops, cultural stories, and the chance to add your own cross makes it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an opportunity to connect with a meaningful symbol of faith and hope.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours, value comfort, and want to make the most of a limited schedule. Just remember, it’s a full day of travel with some long stretches in the van, so pack accordingly and bring a bit of patience for the road.
Whether you’re after a spiritual experience, a scenic drive, or simply want to check off a famous Lithuanian landmark, this tour delivers a straightforward, heartfelt journey.
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