(Vilnius)Siauliai train station-Jelgava train station(Riga).

Exploring the Hill of Crosses from Vilnius to Riga: An Honest Guide

If you’re considering a trip that combines a scenic rail journey with a truly unique site, this tour might just be worth your attention. It’s designed for those who prefer to see something extraordinary without the hassle of complicated arrangements or overly rushed schedules. From what we’ve gathered, this experience offers a nice blend of relaxed travel, cultural significance, and the chance to step into a place that’s unlike anything else.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its flexible nature—giving you plenty of time at the Hill of Crosses to really soak in the atmosphere—and the quality of guides who seem genuinely knowledgeable and friendly. Plus, the fact that you get to travel between two vibrant Baltic capitals with a meaningful stop in between makes it quite the efficient way to see a lot in just three hours.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is that this is a one-way trip — so plan your onward travel accordingly. Also, since you’ll need to buy your train tickets yourself, that’s an extra step to keep in mind. Still, if you’re after a meaningful stopoff on your way from Vilnius to Riga, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate cultural sites, are comfortable with a bit of train travel, and enjoy small-group tours that allow for a personal touch. It’s especially good for those who want a deeper look at the spiritual side of Lithuania without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Flexible & Relaxed: Plenty of time at the Hill of Crosses to explore, take pictures, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Small Group: Limited to just four participants, so you’ll get a more personalized experience.
• Cost-effective: Traveling by train to Siauliai keeps the price lower than many full-day tours.
• Guides: Well-reviewed guides who answer questions and add insight.
• Border Crossing: Remember to bring your passport or ID card as you’ll cross between Lithuania and Latvia.
• Self-Organized Tickets: You need to buy your train tickets yourself, which allows for better planning but requires some prep.
• Duration & Timing: About three hours in total, with a walk of roughly an hour at the hill and time for snacks or souvenirs.
• Additional Stops: Optional stops at Siauliai train station or Jelgava on the way back.
• Not a Round Trip: It’s a one-way experience, so plan your return or onward journey accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point & Itinerary

The journey begins at Vilnius’s train station, with options to meet either there or at the Latvian Railway Museum in Jelgava. The main highlight is the Hill of Crosses, a place that’s hard to forget once you’ve seen it. You’ll spend about an hour walking among over 200,000 crosses—a sight that’s both awe-inspiring and deeply spiritual.

The drive from Siauliai train station to the hill takes around 20 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the rural Lithuanian scenery. During the visit, there’s enough time to buy souvenirs, drinks, or use the facilities. Many visitors comment they appreciated not feeling rushed, and some even enjoyed leaving a cross of their own or marking a spot on the map—small acts that make the experience more personal.

What to Expect at the Hill of Crosses

What really makes the Hill of Crosses special is the sheer number of crosses and the profound sense of devotion it embodies. As one reviewer put it, “I’ve never seen so many crosses in my life,” and that kind of impression is common. The atmosphere is peaceful, yet palpably significant for many visitors.

If you’re interested, you can also visit the nearby monastery and peek into the chapel, adding a spiritual layer to the visit. Souvenir stalls are available, and snacks or drinks are easy to find. It’s a good spot for some memorable photos, with plenty of opportunities to capture the sea of crosses and the surrounding countryside.

Guides & Personal Touch

What stood out in reviews is the knowledgeable guides who make the experience richer. One traveler from Thailand mentioned how their guide, Maarten, answered every question and made them feel well taken care of. Similarly, a traveler from Italy appreciated the guide’s flexibility and friendliness, noting that he even helped coordinate the trip when their original train was booked out.

Transportation & Price

Traveling by train to Siauliai offers a cost-effective alternative to full-day bus tours. It also allows more flexibility and a more relaxed pace. You’ll need to handle your own train tickets, which means some planning ahead. The total duration is about three hours, making it a half-day adventure that fits well into a broader itinerary.

The price reflects this value — you’re paying mainly for the guide’s expertise, the transportation, and the exclusive access to a site that’s not always included in larger tours. It’s a good deal for those wanting a personal experience that doesn’t feel commercialized.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path sites and meaningful cultural stops, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and flexible schedules. Those who like to take their time with photos and exploration will appreciate the ample time at the hill.

However, if you prefer guided full-day tours with all logistics handled or want to visit multiple sites in one go, this might not be the best fit. Remember, since it’s a one-way trip, you’ll need to organize your return from Riga or plan to continue exploring the Baltics afterward.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a chance to see a truly unique Lithuanian landmark without the rush of larger group excursions. The relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and the spiritual depth of the Hill of Crosses make it stand out. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who value authenticity and personal connection over cookie-cutter sightseeing.

The fact that it’s a small-group experience means you’ll likely have the opportunity to ask questions and get personalized insights, which adds to the overall value. For those traveling between Vilnius and Riga who want to add a memorable stop, this tour offers a seamless, meaningful experience.

To sum it up, if you are looking for a peaceful, insightful, and flexible way to explore Lithuania’s heart and its spiritual symbols, this could be just the thing. It’s honest, straightforward, and filled with opportunities for reflection and discovery.

FAQ

Do I need to buy my train tickets in advance?
No, but you’ll need to purchase them yourself before the trip. This gives you control over your schedule and potentially saves money.

How long do I spend at the Hill of Crosses?
About an hour, enough time for walking, taking photos, and exploring the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Is this a round-trip tour?
No, it’s a one-way experience from Vilnius to Riga, so plan your onward travel accordingly.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, Dutch, German, and French, providing flexibility for international travelers.

Can I visit the nearby monastery?
Yes, if you wish, you can go to the nearby monastery and peek into the chapel as part of the visit.

What should I bring?
Remember your passport or ID card for border crossing, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the site itself is suitable for anyone interested in cultural and spiritual landmarks. Use your judgment based on your children’s interests.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the price like?
The cost is competitive compared to larger tours, especially considering the personalized guidance and transportation. It offers good value if you’re interested in an authentic experience rather than just ticking a box.

Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a spiritual seeker, or just someone who wants a meaningful stop en route from Vilnius to Riga, this experience offers a sincere glimpse into Lithuanian devotion and scenic charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: