From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Gems Tour – An Insightful Day Trip

This 5.5-hour tour from Riga takes you across the border into Lithuania to visit the famous Hill of Crosses, a powerful pilgrimage site with over 55,000 crosses. Starting from a conveniently located point in Riga, the journey in a comfortable van includes scenic views of Latvian nature and the city of Jelgava.

The tour features a guided exploration of the Hill of Crosses, free time to absorb its spiritual atmosphere, and a brief stop at St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral in Jelgava. It’s especially suitable for those interested in history, faith, and regional culture, offering a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights with meaningful storytelling.

While the tour offers rich insights and scenic stops, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, and travelers must bring passport or ID for border crossing. The tour is frequently praised for its expert guides, smooth organization, and manageable pace, making it an ideal option for a half-day adventure out of Riga.

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Key Points

Travel across Latvia and Lithuania borders in a 5.5-hour guided trip.
Visit the Hill of Crosses, a site with over 55,000 crosses symbolizing faith and resilience.
Enjoy scenic views of Latvian nature and Jelgava during the ride.
Learn from an engaging English-speaking guide who provides detailed context about the sites.
Includes free time at the Hill of Crosses for personal exploration.
Stops at Jelgava include a brief tour of the Orthodox Cathedral with beautiful Byzantine architecture.

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Starting and Ending at Riga’s Town Hall Square

This tour departs from Latvieu strlnieku laukums 3, where travelers find a marked “Opel Vivaro” van ready for pickup. The journey begins with a scenic drive that includes a rest stop for bathroom breaks and snacks, making the trip comfortable and relaxed.

After the drop-off back at the meeting point, travelers have experienced a comprehensive half-day exploring two countries, with plenty of opportunities for photography, cultural insights, and quiet reflection.

The Scenic Drive and Border Photo Stop

The transfer to the Hill of Crosses includes a photo stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border. This quick pause offers an opportunity to capture a memorable image of the border crossing, a fun way to mark the moment of stepping into Lithuania.

The ride itself showcases beautiful Latvian landscapes, with the guide providing commentary on regional history and culture. The scenic drive adds to the sense of adventure, making the entire experience more than just a sightseeing trip.

Exploring the Hill of Crosses in Depth

Once at the Hill of Crosses, visitors are free to wander among thousands of crosses of various materials, from wood and metal to stone. The guided tour helps decode the meaning behind the site, emphasizing its importance as a spiritual and cultural symbol for Lithuanians.

The atmosphere is both profound and uplifting, with intricate crosses bearing personal messages and symbolic carvings. The free time allows visitors to reflect quietly or photograph the site from different angles, capturing its powerful visual impact.

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Jelgava’s Orthodox Cathedral and Regional Highlights

On the return journey, the tour makes a brief stop in Jelgava at the St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral. Built in the early 20th century, this Byzantine-style church features a stunning blue and white façade and beautiful interior iconography.

The brief visit offers a glimpse into regional religious heritage and architectural beauty, enriching the overall experience. This stop is ideal for those interested in Baltic spiritual architecture and historic religious sites.

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The Guides and Overall Organization

The tour benefits from English-speaking guides known for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides’ friendliness, clarity, and ability to share historical details in an accessible way.

The comfort of the van transport and timed stops contribute to a smooth experience, allowing enough time at each location without feeling rushed. Pacing is generally well-received, with many reviewers mentioning the balanced schedule and helpful tips from guides.

Practical Details and Tips

Travelers need to bring their passport or ID card to cross the border, and cash is advisable for snacks or souvenirs. The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants to proceed, so early booking is recommended during busy seasons.

The meeting point in Riga is easy to find, right next to the Occupational Museum, and the return is to the original location, making logistics straightforward.

Why Choose This Tour?

This trip offers a well-organized way to visit the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava without the hassle of independent travel. It combines scenic drives, historical insights, and spiritual significance, providing a balanced experience for curious travelers.

The high rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 401 reviews, reflects consistent satisfaction with guides, organization, and the overall value. The addition of photo stops and free time enhances the experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate both structured tours and personal exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Riga to Lithuania Journey

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, spiritual travelers, and those seeking a scenic day trip. Its short duration makes it manageable for a half-day plan, and the expert guides ensure you gain meaningful insights into each site.

While food and drinks are not included, the rest stop provides opportunities to purchase snacks, and the scenic drive offers plenty of visual interest. The orthodox cathedral stop adds a cultural layer, rounding out the Baltic experience.

Travelers who enjoy small group touring, meaningful stories, and beautiful scenery will find this trip offers excellent value and memorable sights.

Ready to Book?

From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Gems Tour

4.8

(401)

“Paul was great in telling us about the history of both countries. I recommend this half day tour to anyone who visits Riga.”

— Maria, June 20, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, since the tour crosses the Latvia-Lithuania border, a passport or ID card is required.

How long is the drive from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
The drive includes a scenic transfer with a rest stop, and the total travel time is approximately 90 minutes.

Is there free time at the Hill of Crosses?
Yes, there is about one hour for free exploration, photography, and reflection.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a passport or ID, cash for snacks or souvenirs, and comfortable clothing for walking the site.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the manageable pace and easy walking make it suitable for most ages, but travelers should be comfortable with border crossings.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but a rest stop allows for purchases along the way.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is conducted in English by an experienced guide.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is typically small enough to allow personalized attention, but a minimum of 5 participants is necessary to run the tour.

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

Would I recommend this tour?
Definitely. Its combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and spiritual sights makes it a memorable half-day outing from Riga.