From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Siluva Day Trip

Explore the Iconic Hill of Crosses and the Historic Town of Siluva

This 8.5-hour private day trip from Riga takes you to two of Lithuania’s most meaningful sites: the Hill of Crosses and Siluva. Priced affordably and rated 4.9 out of 5 by Latvian Gem, this tour offers a respectful and insightful journey into religious traditions and local legends. The tour is ideal for those interested in history, spirituality, or Lithuanian culture, with the flexibility of leaving a cross or simply exploring at your own pace.

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Riga, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside. It includes a photo stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border, where you can capture the moment with the border signs. You’ll then visit the Hill of Crosses, a site famous for its thousands of crosses and stories of faith and resilience. The journey concludes with a visit to Siluva, home to a chapel built on a stone from 1608 and known for the apparition of the Virgin Mary.

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Key Points

• Duration: 8.5 hours, offering a full-day experience
• Rating: 4.9 out of 5, reflecting high customer satisfaction
• Includes: Guided tour in English, border photo stop, and free time at each site
• Flexibility: Option to leave your own cross at the Hill of Crosses
• Travel type: Private group, with pickup in Riga and return
• Suitability: Not recommended for wheelchair users

From Riga to the Latvia-Lithuania Border for a Photo Stop

The adventure starts in Riga, where a guide and driver pick you up from your hotel. The drive is comfortable, with scheduled stops for photos and short breaks along the way, ensuring a relaxed pace despite the longer travel time. A key highlight is the border crossing, where you can take photos with the Latvian and Lithuanian border signs—a simple yet memorable moment that marks the beginning of your Lithuanian exploration.

The border stop provides a chance to stretch your legs and capture some memorable photos before heading deeper into Lithuania. This part of the trip is straightforward, with no complications, making it easy for travelers to enjoy the scenic drive and the anticipation of the sites ahead.

Guided Tour of the Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is the focus of the tour, where a guided walk reveals the fascinating stories behind this site. You can purchase a cross from local vendors, or bring your own to leave on the hill—an optional act of devotion or memory. The guide explains the history, stories, and legends surrounding the thousands of crosses that cover the hill, which has become a symbol of faith, resistance, and hope.

After the guided explanation, you’ll have free time to explore the hill on your own. During this period, it’s common to see visitors leaving crosses, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The site’s unique visual impact and spiritual significance make it a moving experience, even for those who are not religious.

Visiting the Town of Siluva and the 1608 Chapel

Next, the tour takes you to Siluva, a small town with a notable religious site. The highlight here is a chapel built on top of a stone from 1608, which adds historical depth to this quiet town. Siluva is renowned for an apparition of the Virgin Mary, making it a pilgrimage destination for many visitors interested in religious history.

You’re free to explore the town and the chapel at your own pace. The free time allows for quiet reflection or a quick look around the local area, depending on your interests. The atmosphere in Siluva offers a contrast to the bustling city life of Riga, providing a peaceful setting for those interested in spiritual and historical sites.

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Practical Details of the Tour

The tour involves a full day of travel, with frequent stops for photography and breaks. Travelers should be prepared for a long drive, but the itinerary ensures you’re never on the road for too long without a short pause. Lunch is not included but can be arranged during the day if desired.

This private group tour includes the services of a live English-speaking guide, who shares insights about each location. The company, Latvian Gem, maintains a high rating of 4.9, reflecting consistent quality and customer satisfaction. Cancellation is flexible—you may cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—and the payment is reservation-based, allowing for flexible planning.

Accessibility and Special Considerations

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of the sites visited and the walking involved. It is open to anyone interested in history and religious sites, but travelers should be aware of the moderate physical requirements.

The tour is conducted in English, and since it is a private group, it offers a personalized experience that can be tailored to your pace as needed.

Why Choose This Tour?

This From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Siluva Day Trip offers a comprehensive and respectful introduction to Lithuanian religious sites, emphasizing history, culture, and spiritual symbolism. The guided insights help deepen understanding of the sites’ significance, while the flexible schedule and optional cross leaving add personal meaning to your visit.

The combination of easy border crossing, famous sites, and the peaceful town of Siluva makes this trip a well-rounded choice for those with a curiosity for Lithuania’s spiritual landmarks. While the longer driving time might be a consideration, the stops and guided commentary help make the journey worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is accessible for most, it may not be ideal for very young children due to the walking involved and the length of the day.

Can I bring my own cross to leave at the Hill of Crosses?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own cross if you’d like to leave it on the hill.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there is a possibility to stop for lunch during the day.

Is the tour conducted in languages other than English?
No, the tour is offered in English only.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any physical limitations for participants?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves some walking at the sites.

How high is the guide’s expertise?
The guide provides detailed explanations about the history and legends of the sites, making the experience informative and engaging.

Is this tour suitable for non-religious visitors?
Absolutely, the sites are historic and cultural landmarks that can be appreciated regardless of religious beliefs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for photos, and your own cross if you wish to leave one on the hill.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are simple, with pay later options available, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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