Go on a pilgrimage from Riga – visit Siluva and Hill of Crosses!

Exploring Lithuania’s Sacred Sites from Riga: An Authentic Pilgrimage Experience

Travelers looking to add a meaningful and cultural twist to their Baltic trip will find this private tour to the Shrine of Our Lady of Siluva and the Hill of Crosses an enriching day out. Designed for those interested in spiritual landmarks and scenic drives, this tour takes you beyond Riga’s city limits into Lithuania’s spiritual heartland. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of historical insight and practical comfort—all with a personal touch provided by a knowledgeable guide.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the smooth private transportation that takes the hassle out of cross-border travel and the balanced mix of guided tours and free time. This means you get expert commentary at each site, but also enough flexibility to absorb the atmosphere, buy a cross from local vendors, or simply sit quietly at the shrines.

One potential consideration is the timing—with approximately 8 to 9 hours on the road, it’s a long day, especially if you’re not used to extended travel. Also, lunch isn’t included, so packing some snacks or planning a meal around the stops is advisable. But overall, the value of visiting these unique sites without the need for complicated planning makes it worthwhile.

Key Points / Takeaways

Comfortable private transport makes the trip smooth and stress-free.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Janis Gasi and Krista, enhance the experience with humor and insights.
Flexible free time at each site allows for personal reflection, photos, or buying a meaningful cross.
Unique landmarks—the first apparition site of the Virgin Mary in Europe at Siluva and the iconic Hill of Crosses—offer spiritual and cultural depth.
Affordable for what you get, considering transport, entry, and guided commentary, especially with group discounts.
A well-organized itinerary ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Shrine of Our Lady of Siluva

Your day begins with a comfortable drive through the Lithuanian town of Siluva, famous for a Marian apparition in 1608—long before Lourdes or Fatima. Standing on what is believed to be the actual stone where the Virgin Mary appeared, you’ll get a sense of how deeply rooted this site is in local faith. The Shrine of Our Lady of Siluva is more than just a church; it’s a place steeped in spiritual history, still active today, and welcoming visitors for prayer and reflection.

The tour provides about an hour for exploring the church and the First Chapel at the Rock, built directly on the site of the apparition. You’ll love the aura of tranquility, and the chance to walk on the very stone that witnessed the Virgin’s appearance. As one traveler noted, the free time here is perfect for absorbing the atmosphere and taking some meaningful photos.

The Hill of Crosses: A Powerful Pilgrimage Site

Next, you’ll head to the Hill of Crosses (Kryziu Kalnas)—Lithuania’s most popular pilgrimage destination. This site is famous for the hundreds of thousands of crosses, some small and simple, others large and ornate, all piled high on a hill that seems to go on forever. It’s a striking sight that leaves a lasting impression and offers a tangible expression of faith, hope, and remembrance.

Your guided tour will clarify the significance of the site, its history of resilience during Soviet times, and its ongoing role as a symbol of Lithuanian identity. Afterward, you’ll have about 40 minutes of free time to explore independently: take photos, wander the paths, or plant a cross if you feel inspired. Many travelers find it meaningful to buy a cross from the local vendors—an authentic souvenir and a gesture of ongoing faith.

The Logistics & Experience Quality

The entire tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, which might seem long but is comfortably managed thanks to the air-conditioned vehicle and WiFi onboard. The private transport ensures you avoid crowded buses or confusing schedules, and with pickup from central Riga, it’s straightforward to join the experience.

The price of around $185 per person includes bottled water, private transportation, and guided commentary—a good deal considering the convenience and depth of the visit. Lunch isn’t included, but the trip’s structure allows for you to bring snacks or plan a meal during the free time at each site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate spiritual sites, cultural stories, or simply want a hassle-free way to explore Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage locations. It’s especially suitable if you value personalized attention from guides and enjoy a mix of guided insights and free exploration.

People seeking a deeply meaningful, culturally enriching day will find this tour rewarding. The guides’ humor and expertise make the long drive enjoyable, as one reviewer highlighted, “lots of laughter and learned so much about both the Latvian and Lithuanian culture.” It’s also perfect for those with a flexible schedule, ready to spend a day immersed in faith and history.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Full Day

While $185 might seem steep compared to public transport, the cost reflects the convenience of private pickup, guided commentary, and all logistics handled for you. You avoid the stress of arranging cross-border travel, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. The inclusion of WiFi and bottled water adds to the comfort, making this a practical choice for travelers eager to maximize their time without fuss.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare chance to connect with Lithuania’s spiritual heritage without the hassle of planning or navigating unfamiliar transportation. The combination of historical significance, scenic drives, and personal freedom at each site makes it a memorable day.

If you’re curious about religious sites that have survived centuries of history and want a guided experience that’s both informative and relaxed, this pilgrimage from Riga is an excellent pick. It’s suited for those interested in authentic experiences, meaningful landmarks, and the camaraderie of sharing a day with like-minded travelers.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything special for the tour?
Not necessarily. It’s good to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the shrines and bring some snacks or a small amount of cash for buying crosses or souvenirs at the Hill of Crosses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is largely contemplative and scenic, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers interested in history and culture.

How long is the drive between Riga and the sites?
The tour includes a comfortable private vehicle ride, which takes roughly an hour each way, allowing you to relax and enjoy the commentary along the way.

Can I buy a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely. Local vendors sell crosses—many visitors find it meaningful to purchase one as a personal souvenir or prayer token.

Is there an option to cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled date, ensuring flexibility if your plans shift.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi on board, and guided commentary. Admission to the sites and free time are part of the experience but not paid separately.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during busy seasons, booking ahead guarantees your spot. Confirmation is typically received within 48 hours of booking, depending on availability.

This private pilgrimage tour from Riga combines ease, meaningful sites, and insightful guides—perfect for travelers seeking a spiritual and cultural adventure with comfort and authenticity.