From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Day Trip and back.

Exploring the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava from Riga offers a compelling mix of spirituality, history, and architecture within a manageable 5 to 6-hour tour. This trip, organized by SIA Baltic guide, takes visitors through Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage site, with over 200,000 crosses, and Latvia’s largest baroque palace, the Jelgava Palace. The tour emphasizes guided walks, photo stops, and a chance to put a pin on the map representing your country or region at the Hill of Crosses.

While the tour delivers stunning scenery and insightful commentary, it is best suited for those comfortable with walking and moderate physical activity. The meeting point at a pastry shop in Riga is easy to reach by tram, and the tour includes comfort stops with free toilets and a coffee break. The tour’s languages include English and Dutch with some support in German and French. As a well-rounded day trip, this tour offers value for money and a chance to experience a unique religious site and Latvian architecture in one journey, though visitors should be prepared for weather variability and walking.

Key Points

• Visit the Hill of Crosses, a sacred Lithuanian site with over 200,000 crosses.
• Explore Jelgava Palace, the biggest baroque palace in Latvia, from outside.
• Guided walk and photo stops included, with a coffee break during the day.
• Tour duration clocks in at 5 to 6 hours, starting from Riga.
• Tour is suitable for those able to handle moderate walking and all weather conditions.
• Languages spoken are English and Dutch; some support available in German and French.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics in Riga

This tour begins at a pastry shop called “Briedisi 17”, located near the Grecinieku iela tram stop, specifically at Satiksmes iela. The convenience of the location makes for easy access via tram 10. The pick-up is straightforward, and the end point is the same as the start, making it simple to plan your day.

A note on possible deviations: If there’s a desire to visit the House of the Blackheads, this must be agreed upon at the start of the tour, as it is not automatically included.

Visiting the Hill of Crosses: A Sacred Site with Over 200,000 Crosses

The main highlight of this trip is the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage destination with a unique religious atmosphere. Over 200,000 crosses are placed on the hillside, creating a powerful visual. Visitors stroll along the paths between crosses and can learn about the history of the pilgrimage as they explore.

A special feature allows visitors to put a pin on the map that represents their country or region, adding a personal touch to the experience. The site is accessible in all weather, and photo opportunities abound, especially if the weather is clear. Keep in mind that tickets for the toilet at the site are paid, but there are free toilets available in Jelgava or at a gas station.

Jelgava Palace and the Sculpture Park on Post Island

Following the visit to the Hill of Crosses, the tour guides you to see the Jelgava Palace, Latvia’s biggest baroque palace, located just outside the city. Though the inside visits require tickets, the exterior architecture is impressive enough to warrant a walk past the palace facade.

The tour also includes a walk across a new pedestrian bridge to Post Island, where visitors can explore the sculpture park. The statue of Latvia’s first president and the watchtower, where wild horses graze, are notable sights on the island. The church tower nearby offers great views if the weather permits, and the glass rooftop inside the tower provides an indoor panoramic experience.

Inside the Jelgava Church and Optional Visits

An optional part of the tour is a visit inside Jelgava Church, with tickets not included in the package. The view from the tower is a highlight if weather is good, offering scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Visitors should be prepared for moderate physical activity when walking to the tower or exploring the grounds.

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The Tour’s Guided Experience and Language Support

The guides are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guide Maarten is noted for his good driving and informative commentary. The tour operates in English and Dutch fluently, with some support in German and French. This makes it accessible for a variety of travelers, especially those who appreciate clear explanations and local insights.

Price and Included Amenities

The tour price covers photo stops, a guided walk in Jelgava, a visit to the Hill of Crosses, coffee, and free toilets at Jelgava or gas stations. It does not include meals, museum tickets in Jelgava, or paid toilets at the Hill of Crosses. For those wanting flexibility, the booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Physical Requirements and Weather Considerations

This tour involves moderate walking, making it less suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, rain gear, and personal essentials such as passport or ID, camera, snacks, and water. Since the tour takes place outdoors, dressing appropriately for all weather conditions is recommended.

Review Highlights and Practical Tips

The overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 is driven by positive comments on the knowledgeable guides and interesting sites. One review notes that the tour is especially enjoyable in good weather and during warmer months. Tourists should wrap up warmly in winter, as some mentions indicate the start of December can be very cold.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This trip suits history and architecture enthusiasts, those interested in religious sites, and travelers seeking a day full of scenic stops just outside Riga. It is best for moderate walkers comfortable with outdoor exploration. Since the inside visits require tickets and more time, travelers with limited mobility may find this tour challenging.

The Specific Appeal of this Riga Day Trip to Lithuania

This day trip from Riga offers a balanced itinerary that includes cultural, religious, and architectural highlights from Lithuania and Latvia. The Hill of Crosses provides an emotional experience, while Jelgava’s palace and sculpture park offer a taste of Latvian grandeur.

The guided walk and photo stops add depth to the sightseeing, and the small group setting ensures a more personalized experience. While not designed for those with mobility impairments, the tour provides accessible outdoor sightseeing and scenic views that make it suitable for most active travelers.

This tour presents a convenient way to explore two fascinating sites in one day, with a friendly guide, good value, and the flexibility of booking options. It offers a well-rounded glimpse into the religious, historical, and architectural richness of the region, making it a worthwhile option for those wanting to expand their Baltic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 5 to 6 hours, starting from Riga and including visits to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Palace.

What is included in the price?
The price covers photo stops, a guided walk in Jelgava, visit of the Hill of Crosses, coffee, and free toilets in Jelgava or at gas stations.

Are inside visits or museum tickets included?
No, museum tickets in Jelgava or inside the Jelgava Palace are not included. Inside visits are optional.

What languages are available for the guide?
The guides speak English and Dutch fluently. Some support is available in German and French.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors or wheelchair users due to walking and outdoor exploration requirements.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, passport or ID, camera, snacks, water, and rain gear for the outdoor elements.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at “Briedisi 17” pastry shop near the Grecinieku iela tram stop in Riga.

Will I see the view from the Jelgava church tower?
Yes, if the weather is clear, the view from the tower offers great scenery; inside visits are optional and require tickets.

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but dress warmly as the start of December can be quite cold and the weather may be snowy or icy.

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