From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Day Trip and Back
This full-day tour from Riga takes you about 5 to 6 hours through stunning scenery and fascinating landmarks in Samogitia, Lithuania, and Latvia. For around a moderate price, you’ll visit the iconic Hill of Crosses, learn about its significance, and then explore Jelgava’s grand Baroque Palace, sculpture park, and notable landmarks.
What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of spiritual and architectural highlights. We loved the chance to put a pin on the map, representing our home country at the Hill of Crosses—a small gesture but a memorable one. The visit to Jelgava offers a relaxed walk through Latvia’s largest baroque palace’s outer grounds, alongside modern sculptures and scenic views from a glass-roofed tower.
A possible drawback? The duration—while manageable—means you’ll spend quite a bit of time traveling, so it’s best for those comfortable with moderate walking and a full schedule. This trip is ideal for travelers who want a mix of cultural, religious, and historical sights without the hassle of organizing transport themselves. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in authentic pilgrimage sites and grand European architecture but who also appreciate genuine guides and local flavor.
Key Points
- Highlights include the Hill of Crosses with over 200,000 crosses and Jelgava Palace’s impressive Baroque architecture.
- Guided experience with insightful commentary in English, Dutch, and others, ensuring a rich understanding of each stop.
- Authentic moments like placing a pin on the map at the Hill of Crosses make the experience personal and memorable.
- Convenient logistics with a centrally located meeting point and a small group atmosphere.
- Weather considerations — the tour runs in all weather, but good footwear and rain gear are recommended for walking outside.
- Value for money through included photo stops, guided walk, coffee, and access to scenic viewpoints.
Exploring the Journey: An In-Depth Look at Your Day Trip
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Departure and Meeting Point
The adventure begins at a cozy pastry shop, “Briedisi 17,” in Riga, easily accessible by tram (stop at Satiksmes iela). Meeting here is straightforward, and the friendly guides help set the tone for a relaxed day. The early start means you beat much of the traffic, and you’ll be on your way with a small group or private arrangement, which keeps things intimate and flexible.
First Stop: The Hill of Crosses
The true highlight of this trip is the Hill of Crosses, a site that’s both visually striking and emotionally powerful. Over 200,000 crosses of all sizes crowd the hillsides, creating a sea of symbolic gestures. It’s a site of pilgrimage and resilience, especially for Lithuanians, but everyone can appreciate the story of faith and hope.
As one review notes, “The hill was very interesting and definitely worth going to.” We loved the way walking through the pathways reveals layers of crosses, some tiny and some towering. The guide explains its significance, and you’ll have plenty of time for photos and reflection.
A nice touch is the opportunity to put a pin on the map to represent your country or region—an act that makes the visit even more personal. Just be aware that there’s a paid toilet nearby if you need it, and the entry inside the site isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
Journey to Jelgava
After the Hill of Crosses, the tour moves toward Latvia’s largest Baroque palace—the Jelgava Palace. While only the outside is included in the tour, it’s impressive enough to make a lasting impression. Walking over the new pedestrian bridge and exploring the sculpture park on Post Island offers a taste of Jelgava’s blend of historic grandeur and modern art.
More Great Tours NearbyJelgava’s Highlights
Guided walks in Jelgava are a real plus. According to reviews, guides like Maarten are “very good and helpful,” adding context and friendliness that make large distances feel manageable.
One of the most memorable sights is the statue of Latvia’s first president, which underscores the country’s history. The watchtower where wild horses graze offers scenic views, especially if the weather is clear. For those interested, inside visits to the church tower are possible, though tickets are not included.
On Post Island, the sculpture park showcases contemporary Latvian art, adding a modern contrast to the historic architecture. If the weather permits, you’ll enjoy sweeping views from the glass rooftop, an indoor viewing space that provides a panoramic perspective without the chill.
Lunch and Refreshments
The tour includes coffee and a chance to stretch your legs, but note that meals are not included. For those wanting to explore local cuisine, there are plenty of options in Jelgava, or you can bring snacks along for the ride.
Practicalities and Comfort
The entire experience is designed to be comfortable, with free toilets in Jelgava or at gas stations. The tour is suitable for most, although people with mobility issues or wheelchair users** may find it challenging** due to the walking involved and uneven terrain at the Hill of Crosses.
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some snacks. We found that in colder months the tour is still worthwhile, though wrapping up warm makes it more enjoyable, as one reviewer experienced during December.
Returning to Riga
The tour ends back at the starting point, making it straightforward to plan your next activity or return to your accommodation. You might even opt to drop at the House of the Blackheads if arranged at the start, adding a bit more sightseeing to your day.
Why This Tour Works for You
If you’re looking for a full-day excursion that combines culture, historical insights, and beautiful scenery, this trip offers excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for travelers interested in religious sites, grand architecture, and authentic local experiences, without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or transportation.
The guided aspect ensures you get meaningful stories behind each site, and the small group or private options mean you can enjoy a more personalized experience.
However, if you’re not comfortable with moderate walking or prefer to stay indoors, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s outdoor portions, especially at the Hill of Crosses, are integral to the experience and require some physical activity.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This day trip is a solid choice if you’re eager to see a symbolic Lithuanian pilgrimage site and enjoy a scenic walk through Latvian architecture and sculpture parks. The guided commentary makes it educational and engaging, while the scenic views and photo opportunities cater to those who love capturing travel memories.
It’s a particularly good option if you appreciate authentic experiences, like historical sites, and want to learn the stories behind the sights. The combination of impressive religious monumentality and elegant Baroque architecture offers a well-rounded glimpse into Baltic culture.
Travelers who enjoy moderate walking, small-group tours, and flexible itineraries will find this trip a rewarding addition to their Baltic adventure. Just remember to dress warmly if visiting in cooler months, and bring your curiosity along—this is a tour that blends history, faith, and art into a memorable day.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including travel time and stops.
What is included in the tour price?
Photo stops, guided walk in Jelgava, visit to the Hill of Crosses, coffee, and free toilets are included.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; you can buy snacks or lunch in Jelgava or bring your own.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but note that it involves some walking and outdoor exposure.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, snacks, water, and your passport or ID.
Can I visit the inside of the Jelgava Palace or church tower?
Inside visits are possible but not included in the tour; tickets would need to be purchased separately.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven terrain.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Dutch fluently, with some German and French.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where exactly do I meet the guide?
At “Briedisi 17,” a pastry shop reachable from Grecinieku iela by tram 10, stop at Satiksmes iela.
This tour offers a compelling blend of faith, history, and architecture, all wrapped into one manageable day trip. Whether you want to reflect at the Hill of Crosses or marvel at Jelgava’s grand palace, it’s a well-organized way to deepen your Baltic experience.
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