Taking a trip from Riga to visit the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava offers a unique glimpse into Lithuanian culture, faith, and architecture—without straying too far from Latvia. While the tour lasts around five to six hours, it packs in considerable sights and stories, making it a worthwhile detour for those craving authentic experiences outside the city. Whether you’re fascinated by religious symbols or love exploring European palaces, this day trip covers a lot.
What I appreciate most about this experience is the chance to walk among over 200,000 crosses—a powerful sight that speaks to resilience and faith. Plus, the visit to Jelgava Palace provides a stunning example of Baroque grandeur, with an inside peek that’s often a highlight for architecture lovers. The guide’s knowledge makes the stories come alive, and the flexibility to customize stops, like putting a pin on the map or visiting the sculpture park, adds a personal touch.
One potential drawback? If you’re visiting during colder months, be prepared for the chill—most reviews mention it’s absolutely freezing in December. The guided tour runs in various languages, but the limited availability of some languages like Latvian or Romanian might be a consideration if you prefer those. Also, additional costs for museum tickets or toilets at the Hill of Crosses aren’t included, so plan accordingly. Still, for value and authentic scenery, this trip offers much more than just a travel photo opportunity.
Key points / Takeaways
- Powerful spiritual experience: The Hill of Crosses provides a moving sight of over 200,000 crosses, symbolizing faith and resistance, with the chance to add your own pin.
- Architectural highlight: Jelgava Palace is the biggest Baroque palace in Latvia, offering a glimpse into regal splendor just outside Latvia’s borders.
- Expert guiding: Guides like Maarten and others are praised for their helpfulness and local insights, making the journey both informative and engaging.
- Flexible itinerary: Stops like the sculpture park or the watchtower offer a mix of nature, art, and history, catering to different interests.
- Practical details: The tour includes photo stops, coffee, and free toilets, with options for private or small groups—great for a more personalized experience.
- Weather considerations: Expect colder temperatures in winter, so dress warmly if visiting in late fall or winter.
Visiting the Hill of Crosses
The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania is one of those sights that sticks with you long after you’ve left. Over 200,000 crosses—some small, some towering—cover a hillside and pathways, making it a surreal and deeply meaningful place. It’s a site of pilgrimage, prayer, and remembrance, with many visitors adding their own crosses. A highlight is the opportunity to put a pin on the map representing your country or region, making your visit feel personal.
From the reviews, visitors mention that the spiritual energy is palpable, but the weather can be a factor. One traveler described December visits as “absolutely freezing,” so bundling up is essential. The guided walk helps contextualize the significance of the crosses, and guides like Maarten are appreciated for their helpful, friendly demeanor. It’s free to walk around, but a paid toilet is available, and if you wish to go inside the small chapel, tickets are extra.
The history behind the site is compelling. During times of persecution, especially under Soviet rule, the Crosses became a symbol of resistance. Today, it’s a testament to faith’s resilience, making it a poignant stop that resonates emotionally.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Jelgava.
Jelgava: Latvia’s Largest Baroque Palace and More
The second major stop on this trip is Jelgava, where you’ll visit the Jelgava Palace—Latvia’s largest baroque residence. Outside, it’s an impressive edifice, and many travelers enjoy walking over the new pedestrian bridge and exploring the sculpture park on Post Island.
Inside, if you choose to go in (tickets are not included), you’ll see rooms filled with ornate woodwork and historical artifacts. The view from the glass rooftop is a real treat, especially if the weather cooperates. The guide’s commentary and the relaxed pace make the visit enjoyable, and those with an interest in architecture or royal history will find it worthwhile.
A walk to the watchtower reveals where wild horses graze, blending rural charm with regal history. The town itself offers a laid-back vibe, and the guided walk in Jelgava adds rich local context—something that many visitors find enlightening and fun.
Practicalities and What to Expect
The tour departs from Pastry shop “Briedisi 17” near Grecinieku iela, accessible via tram 10 and the Satiksmes iela stop. The meeting point is informal but well-placed for travelers arriving in Riga. The trip lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, making it a manageable day outing.
Transportation is via a comfortable coach, and the group sizes are small or private, ensuring you get personalized attention. The tour is guided in multiple languages, with English and Dutch being the most proficient. German and French are available but to a lesser degree.
Expect moderate physical activity—walking around the Crosses and Jelgava Palace grounds is involved, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or who use wheelchairs might find parts challenging.
Included in the price are photo stops, a coffee break, and guiding. Extras like museum tickets or eating are not included, so budget accordingly. The tour is flexible enough for last-minute cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind if your plans change.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re interested in religious sites and enjoy seeing meaningful symbols of resilience, the Hill of Crosses is a must-see. The opportunity to add your own cross or pin makes it feel personal. Architecture buffs will appreciate Jelgava Palace’s grandeur, especially if you like European Baroque style.
Travelers who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenery will find this tour suits them well. It offers authentic Lithuanian and Latvian sights without the crowds of bigger cities. The guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery—rural Lithuania, the Crosses’ hillside, Jelgava’s stately palace—is genuinely striking.
The tour’s value shines through the combination of multiple sights, the expert guiding, and the comfortable logistics. While it’s not suitable for those with significant mobility issues, most able-bodied travelers will find it accessible and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
This day trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava is a well-rounded experience that balances cultural insight with scenic beauty. You’ll leave with a better understanding of Lithuanian resilience and Latvian regal history, along with some memorable photographs. The guides, especially those like Maarten, bring enthusiasm and local knowledge that elevate a straightforward sightseeing trip into something more engaging.
While the weather might be a deterrent in winter, dressing warmly makes all the difference. The value for the price, especially with small-group options and flexible cancellation, makes this an appealing choice for curious travelers eager to explore beyond Latvia’s borders.
Whether you’re drawn by the spiritual symbolism, the architectural splendor, or simply the chance to see a different part of the Baltic region, this tour offers a compact yet substantial taste of Lithuania and Latvia’s shared history and culture.
FAQ
How long is the trip from Riga?
The tour lasts around 5 to 6 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.
What is included in the tour price?
Photo stops, guided walk in Jelgava, visit of the Hill of Crosses, coffee, and free toilets are included. Museum tickets and meals are not.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, snacks, and water. Weather can be cold, so dress warmly, especially in winter.
Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for those who can walk moderate distances. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.
Where does the tour start?
At the pastry shop “Briedisi 17,” reachable from Grecinieku iela via tram 10, at the Satiksmes iela stop.
Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides speak English and Dutch fluently, with some German and French options. The guide’s knowledge makes the experience more enjoyable.
This tour represents a fantastic way to connect with the Baltic region’s spiritual, historical, and architectural layers—all in one manageable day from Riga.