From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Siluva Day Trip

Thinking about a day trip from Riga that combines a bit of history, spirituality, and stunning scenery? This 8.5-hour guided tour to the Hill of Crosses and the town of Siluva might just be what you’re after. It’s an experience that offers a mix of meaningful sites and beautiful landscapes, with a chance to explore Lithuania’s unique cultural heritage.

What really catches our eye is the chance to leave a cross at the Hill — a deeply symbolic act — and the opportunity to see the site that’s become a powerful symbol of faith and resilience. Plus, the stop in Siluva, famous for its apparition of the Virgin Mary, adds a spiritual touch that many travelers find moving. On the flip side, the long driving hours could be tiring, especially if you’re not used to day-long excursions. Still, if you’re interested in history, religion, or just want a scenic escape from Riga, this trip is worth considering.

This tour is well-suited for individuals or groups eager to see Lithuania’s iconic sites without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves. It’s a solid choice for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of storytelling, free time, and cultural insights. Just remember, it’s not designed for anyone with mobility issues — the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Key Points

• Historical and spiritual significance: Visit a site that has become a symbol of perseverance and faith.
• Flexible experience: Options to leave your own cross or buy one at the site.
• Long but rewarding day: About 8.5 hours including travel, with stops for photos and breaks.
• Expert guidance: Led by an engaging English-speaking guide.
• Comfortable transport: Private group setting for a more personalized experience.
• Ideal for cultural enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in history, religion, and Lithuanian culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Story: What to Expect on this Day Trip

Starting out in Riga

We love the convenience of being picked up directly from your hotel, which saves the hassle of finding a meeting point. Once you’re on board, the journey begins with a comfortable drive across the border into Lithuania. The route is scenic and offers plenty of opportunities to catch up on the background of these sites from your guide.

Crossing the borders

A quick stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border is a simple and picturesque moment. It’s a fun photo op to snap the signs, marking your transition from one country to another. It’s a small but memorable part of the trip that reminds you of how interconnected these Baltic states are.

The Hill of Crosses: A profound visit

The main event is the Hill of Crosses, which is quite a sight. As you approach, you’ll see thousands of crosses, both large and small, covering the hillside in a powerful display. The site is not just a tourist attraction but a living act of faith and resilience, especially given its history of persecution and destruction.

You can enjoy a guided tour to understand the story behind the crosses — why people leave crosses as acts of devotion, remembrance, or hope. Many visitors find the atmosphere here deeply moving. If you wish, you can buy a cross from local vendors and leave it on the hill as a permanent or temporary gesture. Or, if you prefer, you can bring your own cross to leave behind, adding a personal touch to your visit.

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Free time at the Hill

The tour allows for some unsupervised exploration, so you can walk around, take photos, or simply sit and absorb the ambiance. The site’s quiet, contemplative energy is something many travelers mention as a highlight.

Visiting Siluva

Next, the trip takes you to Siluva, a small town famous for a centuries-old apparition of the Virgin Mary. Here, you’ll see a chapel built on a stone from 1608, which adds historical charm and a sense of continuity. The town is considered a significant pilgrimage site, and the church’s architecture and atmosphere reflect its spiritual importance.

During your free time in Siluva, you might want to explore the surroundings or chat with local vendors. The visit offers a more intimate look at Lithuanian religious traditions, especially for those interested in faith-based travel.

Return journey

After a meaningful day, you’ll head back to Riga. The return trip is relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on what you’ve seen. The driver always makes stops to stretch your legs, and you might find a quick café stop or a snack break along the way if you need.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Bring your own cross if you want to leave something symbolic at the Hill of Crosses. Many reviews mention this as a meaningful act.
• Reserve in advance to secure your spot, as this private group tour is popular and offers flexibility with pay-later options.
• Expect a long day — about 8.5 hours in total — so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some driving.
• Camera or smartphone ready: There are plenty of photo opportunities, especially at the border and the hill.
• Optional lunch: While the tour doesn’t include lunch, you can plan to bring snacks or buy something during the breaks.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users: The tour involves uneven terrain and some walking at the sites.

How Good Is It?

With a 4.9 rating, this tour from Latvian Gem clearly hits the mark for most travelers. From the reviews, many appreciated the knowledgeable guide, the flexibility of free time, and the meaningfulness of the sites. Some folks mention the long drive but feel the stops and stories make it worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, spirituality, or Lithuanian culture, this trip offers a solid, thoughtfully curated experience. It’s especially good if you want a private, guided day without the hassle of planning your own transportation. Keep in mind, it’s better suited for those comfortable with long hours on the road and walking around uneven terrain.

If you’re traveling with children or have mobility issues, you might want to check directly with the provider — since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and kids might find the long drive tiring. But for most adult travelers interested in meaningful cultural sites, it’s a memorable way to spend a day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users as it involves walking on uneven terrain at the sites.

Can I leave my own cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own cross to leave there. Many visitors find this act personally meaningful.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, it does not include lunch. However, there are stops along the way where you can buy snacks or plan to bring your own.

How long is the drive?
The total trip duration is about 8.5 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

What’s the guide’s language?
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring everyone can follow along and learn about the sites.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is offered as a private group experience, which means a more personalized and flexible approach.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for your preferred dates; the tour runs on specific days, and availability can vary.

Is it worth the cost?
Considering the guided experience, entry to significant sites, and transportation logistics, many find it offers good value for a full day of cultural exploration.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that combines history, faith, and beautiful scenery, this Riga-to-Lithuania trip offers a lot. You’ll get a chance to see one of Europe’s most iconic pilgrimage sites, learn its stories firsthand, and enjoy a scenic drive through the Baltics. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in cultural or religious landmarks, looking for a guided experience that takes care of the logistics.

Be prepared for a long day, but expect to come away with meaningful memories and plenty of photos. Whether you want to leave a cross, learn about Lithuanian resilience, or simply enjoy a scenic drive, this trip delivers on several fronts.

Note: Always double-check the latest details with the provider, especially regarding accessibility or specific needs, to make sure the tour fits your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: