From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Enchanting Jelgava Group Tour

Traveling from Riga offers a wonderful chance to explore the neighboring countries of Latvia and Lithuania in just one day. This group tour, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 by 185 happy travelers, combines a visit to the iconic Hill of Crosses in Lithuania with a relaxed stroll through Jelgava, Latvia’s charming small town. It’s a well-organized, brisk 7-hour journey that balances cultural discovery with scenic beauty and good food.

What immediately appeals to me about this experience is how it feels thoughtfully designed. From the start, the guides seem committed to sharing stories that bring the sites alive, not just ticking off landmarks. The expert guides are a highlight—many reviews praise them for their knowledge and friendliness, making the whole experience feel personal rather than commercial. Plus, you get the chance to enjoy local cuisine in Jelgava, which adds depth to the day.

A potential consideration? The duration at each stop is carefully timed, but if you thrive on lingering at each site or love deep dives into history, you may find the itinerary a bit brisk. Still, that’s a fair trade for covering two countries and multiple sights in a single day. The tour offers excellent value for those curious about the Baltics but limited on time, especially given how many reviews mention the affordable yet delicious lunch and the stunning views along the way.

Key Points / Takeaways

Expert Guides Make a Difference: Many reviewers highlight guides like Elvis, Erlens, and Janis for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
A Sacred and Moving Site: The Hill of Crosses is described as powerful and spiritual, with guides sharing fascinating history and encouraging you to walk to nearby monasteries.
Balanced Itinerary: The tour includes scenic stops, photo opportunities, and cultural insights at Jelgava Castle, Orthodox cathedrals, and the Driksas promenade.
Flexible and Comfortable Transport: Travel is by air-conditioned minivan or van, with WiFi onboard and small groups, making the day feel intimate and relaxed.
Authentic Local Food: The lunch at Tea House Silva is praised for its good quality, reasonable prices, and local flavor.
Authentic Experiences: Visitors often mention how the guide’s stories and small surprises, like tasting Riga Balsam, elevate the trip beyond just sightseeing.

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Starting Point at Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms)

The journey begins in the heart of Riga, in front of the Riga Cathedral, a recognizable landmark and a convenient meetup spot. Meeting here feels like starting a local adventure rather than just another tour. The small group size—often only five guests—means you get plenty of attention from your guide, creating a friendly, informal atmosphere.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Riga.

Crossing Borders and the Scenic Drive

After hopping into a comfortable minivan, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive that takes you through the Latvian countryside into Lithuania. The border crossing is quick, but the landscape and changing scenery help build anticipation for what’s to come. Expect some informative commentary along the way, often delivered by guides who are eager to share insights about the region’s history, culture, and current life.

Photo Stop at the Latvia-Lithuania Border

A quick photo stop at the border provides a tangible moment of crossing from one country to another—an experience that reminds you of how close these nations are yet distinct. It’s a small but memorable part of the journey, often praised by travelers for adding authenticity.

The Hill of Crosses: A Sacred Wonder

The main event of the trip is the visit to Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses, located just 12 km north of Siauliai. This site is unlike anything I’ve seen—it’s a vast landscape filled with thousands of crosses, from tiny tokens to large memorials. Many visitors describe it as powerful and moving, with some even calling it a highlight of their Baltic trip.

Your guide will share stories about how the site became a symbol of hope, faith, and resistance—especially during times when religious expression was suppressed. The 80-minute guided walk allows plenty of time to explore, take photos, and walk to the nearby monastery. Many reviews mention the artistic craftsmanship of the crosses, a reflection of Lithuanian cross-making tradition.

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Visiting Jelgava: A Cozy Latvian Town

After the emotional experience at the Hill of Crosses, the tour heads back into Latvia for a stop in Jelgava. This town is a delightful contrast—less hectic than Riga but full of history and local charm. You’ll stroll the Jelgava castle, admire the Orthodox cathedral, and enjoy the Driksas promenade.

Travelers often comment on Jelgava’s relaxed atmosphere and find the short guided tour here to be a perfect way to get a taste of small-town life. The 20-minute guided tour of Jelgava castle is enough to appreciate its architecture and history, but it’s the walk along the promenade that offers a pleasant break.

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Lunch at the Tea House “Silva”

A highlight that earns high praise is the lunch stop at Silva, a cozy tea house offering a choice of traditional Latvian dishes or modern cuisine. Reviewers often mention how well-organized and affordably priced the meal is, making it a great value addition. It’s a good chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and refuel for the rest of the trip.

Final Stops and Return to Riga

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral for a quick photo and guided insight into religious architecture. The Driksas promenade provides some final scenic views before heading back to Riga.

The journey wraps up with a comfortable return to Riga Cathedral, often around the 7-hour mark, leaving you with a well-rounded experience that combines culture, history, scenic beauty, and local flavor.

The Value and Who Would Love This Tour

Considering the price point and inclusions—transportation, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and WiFi—the tour offers excellent value. Many reviewers praise guides like Janis, Elvis, and Erlens for making the day memorable, sharing stories with enthusiasm and kindness.

This trip is especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of the Baltics without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It works well for culturally curious visitors, small groups, or those with limited time but a desire to see more than just Riga’s old town.

This Riga day trip is perfect for anyone interested in a meaningful, balanced glimpse of Latvia and Lithuania. If you enjoy guided storytelling, scenic drives, and small-town charm, you’ll find this tour both enriching and relaxing. The stunning Hill of Crosses alone makes it worth the trip, but the added stops in Jelgava and the local cuisine make it a full and satisfying experience.

Travelers who value expert guides and authentic sites will appreciate how well the tour combines historical insight with genuine cultural moments. It’s also a good pick for those wanting a comfortable, hassle-free day that feels personal rather than overly commercial.

While the schedule is tight, it’s designed to maximize your sightseeing in just a few hours, making this a great choice for a Baltic sampler. If your top priority is seeing something truly unique and getting a taste of Baltic life, this tour has a lot to offer.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, departing from Riga and returning to the same spot.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation by air-conditioned van, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and WiFi onboard are included. Food and drinks are not included but are available at the lunch stop.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95. Comfortable shoes are recommended, so it’s best for children able to walk and enjoy outdoor sites.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera for all the photo-worthy moments.

Is the guide’s commentary in English?
Yes, all guides speak English and are praised for their engaging storytelling.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What about group size?
The group tends to be small, often around five guests, making it more personal and less rushed.

Would I get enough time at each stop?
Most reviewers say yes—the itinerary is designed to give you a good amount of time to explore each site without feeling hurried, especially at the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava.

This tour offers a blend of spiritual sites, history, scenic landscapes, and local cuisine, making it an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see more of the Baltic region without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.