Jelgava may not be as famous as Riga, but it offers some unique opportunities for travelers eager to explore Baltic culture, architecture, and religious symbolism. Unlike big cities that focus on museums or nightlife, Jelgava’s appeal lies in its historical sites and nearby border crossings, making it a perfect base for day trips. We particularly like tours that combine the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania with visits to impressive palaces like Rundale. These trips give you a taste of Latvia’s and Lithuania’s contrasting styles—whether you’re marveling at thousands of crosses or the intricate Baroque detailing of Rundale Palace. For a comprehensive look at what Jelgava-based tours can offer, see the options below.
The list features a mix of half-day excursions, guided train journeys, and full-day trips, all designed to give you authentic experiences without spending your entire vacation on the road. Whether you’re interested in religious symbols, architectural grandeur, or simply want to enjoy Latvia’s scenic countryside, there’s something here for you.
1. 5,5 Hour Shared Tour to Hill of Crosses from Riga
This tour takes you from Riga to the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, an extraordinary site where over 200,000 crosses stand as a testament to faith and resilience. The trip lasts about 5.5 hours, with a detailed itinerary that includes a stunning border crossing photo stop and a Jelgava Palace photo opportunity. The highlight is, of course, the Hill of Crosses, where you get free time to explore, walk the paths, and absorb the powerful atmosphere. Your guide shares interesting facts about the site’s significance, making the visit more meaningful.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced mix of travel and sightseeing, plus the small-group setup that feels more personalized. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge—“Very nice and good guide. Tour is highly recommended,” says one traveler. The tour is perfect for history lovers, faith travelers, and those seeking an efficient, well-organized day trip. The only potential drawback is the limited time at the site, so if you’re particularly keen on exploring in depth, you might want a full day instead.
Bottom Line: This short but rich tour offers a profound glimpse into Lithuanian religious culture with convenient transportation from Riga.
2. From Riga Jelgava train station: hill of crosses, Rundale
For those who prefer a flexible, self-guided approach, this tour allows you to hop on a train from Jelgava to see two highlights in one day: the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace. The itinerary is quite relaxed, giving you time to explore each site at your own pace, including a stop to grab a bite during the journey. The Hill of Crosses stands as a powerful symbol of faith, with over 200,000 crosses, offering a deeply personal experience as you walk the paths and see the pin on the map where visitors leave their homeland symbols.
Afterward, the visit to Rundale Palace—Latvia’s Baroque masterpiece—offers a chance to admire its lavish architecture, ornate interiors, and expansive gardens. The tour emphasizes flexibility and individual exploration, which appeals to travelers who prefer not to be on a strict timetable. Reviewers note the friendly guide Maarten, who drove and explained along the way, making the trip both informative and pleasant.
Value-wise, this tour’s affordability and self-paced nature suit budget-conscious travelers and those who want to avoid large groups or guided rushes. It’s ideal for curious travelers who enjoy wandering and discovering at their own speed.
Bottom Line: An easy, flexible option perfect for independent explorers who want to see both the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace in one trip.
3. From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Day Trip and back
This full-day trip offers a comprehensive experience, combining the Hill of Crosses with a visit to Jelgava, including a view of the Jelgava Palace. The tour lasts around 5-6 hours, making it a great choice for travelers who want a detailed look at Latvia and Lithuania’s key sites without overloading their day. The Hill of Crosses remains the star, with over 200,000 crosses creating a striking sight, especially for those interested in pilgrimage traditions.
The tour provides a chance to learn about the site’s history while strolling along the paths, and visitors can even put a pin on the map representing their country, lending a personal touch. The Jelgava Palace, while viewed from outside, adds a regal finish to the day. Several reviews mention the friendly guide, noting that even in cold December weather, the trip was well worth it because of the beautiful architecture and meaningful history.
The only caveat is that this tour is rated slightly lower overall, with some comments about the weather or missing out on additional activities, but the overall value and authenticity remain high. It’s best suited for travelers interested in cultural history and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: A solid, well-rounded day trip for those wanting to combine religious symbolism with Latvian architecture.
How to Choose Your Jelgava Tour
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your interests and your schedule. If you want a shorter, guided experience with plenty of background info, the first tour (shared trip to Hill of Crosses) is ideal. For travelers who prefer flexibility and independence, the train-based visit to Hill of Crosses and Rundale (self-guided exploration) offers a relaxed pace. If you’re looking to maximize your day in Latvia and Lithuania, then the full-day Jelgava trip (Hill of Crosses and Jelgava) covers both highlights in about 6 hours.
Think about your budget and endurance—some options include more travel time or walking. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons. Also, check availability for specific times, as these tours can fill up quickly during busy months.
In summary, Jelgava and its nearby attractions provide a fascinating mix of faith, architecture, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the structured guided tour, the self-led train adventure, or the full-day excursion, each provides a unique window into the Baltic region. For history and culture enthusiasts, the Hill of Crosses is an absolute must, while those interested in baroque architecture will enjoy Rundale Palace. Book early and enjoy your trip exploring these remarkable sights.
