From Vilnius: Anykiai & The Hill of Crosses Day Trip

A Practical Look at the From Vilnius: Anykiai & The Hill of Crosses Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Vilnius that mixes spirituality, culture, and nature, this tour to The Hill of Crosses and Anykiai is worth a look. While I haven’t taken it myself, I’ve dug into reviews, itinerary details, and what makes this experience stand out, so I can share an honest rundown.

What really appeals are the chance to reflect at one of Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage sites and the opportunity to explore the charming town of Anykiai, which is packed with cultural sights, a fun treetop walking path, and scenic views. However, there’s a notable aspect to keep in mind: it’s a full day, and the schedule can be quite packed. If you prefer relaxed, slow-paced trips, this might feel a little rushed.

This tour is best suited for those eager to see Lithuania’s highlights in one go—especially if you’re curious about the country’s faith-based symbols and scenic landscapes. It’s also a solid pick for travelers with a sense of adventure and an interest in culture and history. If you’re traveling with children or anyone with mobility issues, the busy schedule and walking parts might require some planning.

Key Points

• Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of Lithuanian resilience and faith.
• Diverse Attractions: From ethnographic museums to scenic treetop paths, the trip offers a variety of experiences.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise knowledgeable guides who make the day more meaningful.
• Scenic Views: Expect stunning vistas from the treetop walkway and the viewing tower.
• Full-Day Experience: Be prepared for a packed itinerary that lasts about 9-11 hours, depending on the day.
• Good Value: The package includes door-to-door transport and a private guide, making it convenient and worth the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting from Vilnius

The tour kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel in Vilnius, which means you don’t have to worry about finding your way. The transfer is smooth, and the private group setting keeps things intimate and easygoing. The guide will likely introduce you to the day’s plan, setting expectations and sharing some background about Lithuania’s culture and history.

The Highest Lithuanian Church

Your first stop is at Lithuania’s tallest church, promising a quick but interesting snapshot of religious architecture and local faith. It’s a good way to get a sense of the spiritual side of Lithuanian life before heading to the more symbolic Hill of Crosses.

The Hill of Crosses

This is undoubtedly the star of the day. With more than 200,000 crosses, the site radiates a potent mix of history, faith, and personal stories. The reviews rave about this: one traveler called it “weird, unique, and wonderful,” and many appreciate its emotional weight. It’s a quiet place to reflect, take photos, or just marvel at the sheer number of crosses stacked in all directions.

The Hill of Crosses is more than just a photo op. It’s a symbol of Lithuanian resilience—many visitors find the experience surprisingly moving. Keep in mind, it’s a pilgrimage site, so respectful behavior is appreciated.

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Domantai Hill Fortress & Scenic Railway

Next, the journey takes a slight historical turn with a visit to Domantai Hill Fortress. Here, you’ll get an insight into Lithuania’s engineering and defensive past, alongside some great views. The narrow-gauge railway adds a fun element, offering a different perspective on Lithuanian landscapes while giving you some rest from walking.

Ethnographic Museum & Horse Museum

The Ethnographic Museum delves into Lithuanian traditions, crafts, and local life, giving you a cultural context that enriches your understanding of the country. Adjacent to it is the Ethnographic Horse Museum, where you can learn about traditional crafts and horse-related heritage, adding a bit of fun and authenticity to your day.

Puntukas Stone & The Devil’s Stone

The famous Puntukas boulder is a highlight for geology buffs, and the “devil” stone of Lithuania offers a touch of folklore. These natural and mythological sites provide interesting stories and great photo opportunities. One reviewer noted how inspiring the Hill of Crosses and Anykiai were, emphasizing the emotional impact of these sites.

The Treetop Walking Path

This feature is a real standout—the only treetop walkway in the Baltic countries and Eastern Europe. It curves 300 meters through the treetops, leading to a 35-meter-high viewing tower. From here, you’ll gaze over the fabled Anykiai woods, the bend of the Ventoj river, and enjoy a walk through the canopy. The views are stunning and peaceful, perfect for nature lovers or anyone wanting a different perspective on the Lithuanian landscape.

End of the Day & Return

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be driven back to Vilnius. The timing can stretch from about 9 to 11 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop, but most reviews say it’s a busy but rewarding experience.

What You Need to Know About the Tour

What’s Included

• Pick-up and drop-off services at your Vilnius hotel
• Transfer and driver/guide for the day
• The tour is a private group, which means fewer strangers and more personalized attention

What’s Not Included

• Lunch (so plan ahead or bring snacks)
• Entry tickets to the treetop walking path, which you buy separately

Practical Tips

• Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.
• The tour operates in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
• The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, and you can reserve without paying upfront.

Honest Insights from Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides, with some noting that the experience surpassed expectations. One reviewer said, “Our guide, Andrius, was very friendly and knowledgeable,” which really highlights the value of a good guide.

Many comment on the stunning views and emotional experience at the Hill of Crosses. One person wrote, “It’s worth the trip,” emphasizing the site’s significance. The scenic treetop walk is another favorite, with visitors appreciating the chance to see the woods from above, a unique highlight in the Baltic region.

Some mention how long the day felt—around 11 hours if you include all stops—and recommend planning accordingly. Not everyone might want to pack so many sites into one day, but those looking for a rundown of Lithuanian culture and landscapes find it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Lithuania’s spiritual symbols, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It’s ideal if you’re interested in history, enjoy scenic views, and want a guided experience that covers a lot in one day. The private setting and knowledgeable guides really help make it special.

While it’s a full schedule, the variety of sites—ranging from the symbolic Hill of Crosses to the scenic treetop path—keeps things engaging. If you’re okay with a busy day and want to see the highlights without fuss, this trip is a good fit.

The value for money is clear, considering the door-to-door service and private guide. Just factor in the additional cost for the treetop ticket and plan your lunch accordingly. Overall, it’s a memorable way to gain a deeper appreciation of Lithuania’s unique character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is mainly a cultural and scenic experience, children comfortable with walking and being on a busy schedule should enjoy it. The treetop path might be especially fun for kids, but consider their stamina for a full day.

How long is the tour?
Most travelers report it lasts about 9 to 11 hours, depending on how long you spend at each site and the pace of the group.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers pick-up and drop-off at your Vilnius hotel, the transfer, and a driver/guide for the day. Entry tickets to the treetop walk are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must since there’s a fair amount of walking. A hat, sunscreen, or rain gear might also be wise depending on the weather.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the group, sharing insights and answering questions throughout the day.

If you’re eager to see Lithuania’s symbols of resilience, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and learn about local traditions—all in one day—this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who like a bit of everything: culture, history, and scenery, with the convenience of private transport and expert guiding.

You can check availability for your dates here: