From Riga: Trip to the Hill of Crosses and Pearls of Jelgava

Planning a trip that balances history, spirituality, and scenic beauty can be tricky, especially if you’re tight on time. This tour from Riga offers a good way to see some of Latvia’s most meaningful sights without taking over your whole day. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of cultural landmarks and beautiful landscapes. Overall, it gets high marks for its engaging stops, lovely countryside views, and knowledgeable guides — but, like all tours, it’s not perfect for everyone.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it combines meaningful sites like the Hill of Crosses with the chance to see a classic Latvian cathedral in Jelgava. Plus, the scenic drive through the countryside gives you a genuine sense of the region. On the flip side, bear in mind that it’s a relatively short tour, so if you’re craving a deep dive into each location, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best for curious travelers who want a snapshot of Latvia’s highlights without too much fuss.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized day trips that mix culture, history, and easygoing travel, this one could be a good fit. It’s especially handy if you’re in Riga and want to see more of the Baltics, but don’t want to venture too far on your own. It’s not tailored for people who need accessible options like wheelchair-friendly facilities, but otherwise, it’s a well-balanced outing.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: The 5.5-hour format makes it manageable to fit into a busy schedule.
• Diverse Highlights: From the spiritual Hill of Crosses to Jelgava’s beautiful Orthodox cathedral, each stop offers something different.
• Scenic Drive: The countryside views between sites help you relax and enjoy the Latvian landscape.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 people, which means more personalized attention and a cozy experience.
• Guided Tour: Live English-speaking guide provides context and answers questions along the way.
• Practical Tips: Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and a camera to make the most of it.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Riga

Your journey kicks off in Riga’s Old Town, a district that teems with medieval charm. The meeting point is conveniently located in Town Hall Square, right next to the Occupation Museum. This is a smart choice because it lets you jump straight into the experience without wasting time. The guide checks your tickets here, so it’s good to arrive a little early.

The Scenic Drive

Once everyone’s gathered, the van departs for the countryside, traversing Latvia’s lush landscapes. We found that the drive was quite pleasant, with the countryside offering a peaceful contrast to Riga’s busy streets. It’s a good chance to settle in and chat with other travelers if you’re in a small group.

Latvia-Lithuania Border Stop

The tour makes a quick photo stop at the border crossing into Lithuania. It’s a simple moment but meaningful—crossing into a new country always adds a little thrill. Expect to capture a few photos and maybe get a quick glimpse of border signage, all while appreciating the significance of this point.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Hill of Crosses

This is the star of the tour for many. The Hill of Crosses is a site packed with hundreds of thousands of crosses of all sizes, from tiny tokens to towering monuments. It’s more than just a collection of crosses; it’s a potent symbol of faith, resilience, and hope for many Lithuanians and visitors alike.

The guide explains its history and spiritual importance, making your visit more meaningful. We loved the way the crosses symbolize collective strength, and many travelers find this site unexpectedly powerful. The site’s atmosphere is peaceful, but be prepared for some walking and a fair amount of browsing around.

Jelgava’s Saint Simeon and Anne Cathedral

After soaking in the spiritual energy at the Hill of Crosses, the tour heads to Jelgava for the visit to the Orthodox cathedral. This site is a highlight for lovers of architecture and serene ambiance. The cathedral boasts beautiful frescoes and an intricately decorated iconostasis, creating a calm, reflective environment.

Visitors have appreciated the chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of this religious site. One reviewer noted, “The cathedral’s frescoes are stunning and offer a real sense of spiritual calm.” You’ll want to take your time here, snapping photos and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Return to Riga

The journey back concludes in Riga’s Old Town, allowing you to reflect on what you’ve seen. The entire trip is designed to be flexible, with the guide happy to answer questions and tailor parts of the experience to the group.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– A knowledgeable local guide who makes the experience engaging and informative
– A professional tour guide (live, in English)
– Walking tour of each stop, with ample time to explore

Not Included:
– Food and drinks, so consider bringing some snacks or a bottle of water
– Transportation costs are covered, so no additional charges unless you opt for extras

Pricing and Value:
At around 5.5 hours, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for its price point. It’s especially worthwhile if you value guided insights and small group intimacy. The limited group size (up to 8 people) ensures a more personal experience, and skipping the ticket lines saves time and hassle.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport or ID, as you’ll be crossing borders.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s walking involved at each site.
• Pack your camera—these spots are photogenic and worth capturing.
• Dress warmly, especially if visiting outside the summer months, since weather can be unpredictable.
• Carry some cash in case you want to buy souvenirs or snacks at the sites.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re interested in understanding Latvia and Lithuania’s cultural and spiritual landscape without dedicating days, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a guided, small-group experience that’s manageable and informative. It’s great if you appreciate scenic drives and meaningful landmarks, but keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and a quick pace.

For those who love stunning views and a sense of history wrapped in a manageable timeframe, this tour offers a satisfying taste of the Baltics. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive or leisurely exploration of each site, consider extending your stay or looking for another experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join this tour if I don’t have a lot of time?
Yes, the 5.5-hour duration makes it a good option for travelers with busy schedules. It fits well into a day of sightseeing from Riga.

Is there any food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or eat beforehand.

Do I need to prepare anything for the border crossing?
Just bring your passport or ID card; the border stop is quick, and you won’t have to do much besides show your documents.

Can I take photos at the sites?
Absolutely. The sites, especially the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Cathedral, are very photogenic.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves some walking and visiting sites that may require reflection, so it’s more suited for older children or teenagers interested in history and culture. It’s not specifically designed as a family tour, but older kids who enjoy sightseeing will likely find it engaging.

What if I want to see more sites in Latvia?
This tour is a great intro, but if you’re eager for more, consider exploring other excursions like the Riga Old Town walking tour or canal boat sightseeing.

In the end, this Riga trip to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava offers a well-balanced glimpse into the spiritual and scenic side of Latvia. It’s especially rewarding if you’re after meaningful landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and a taste of Baltic resilience. For travelers who value informative guides and intimate group settings, it’s a solid choice that balances sightseeing with reflection.

You can check availability for your dates here: