From Riga: The Hill of Crosses Private Guided Tour

From Riga: The Hill of Crosses Private Guided Tour offers a compelling day trip into Lithuania’s heartland. For around 4.8/5 stars from 48 reviews, travelers rave about this journey that takes you from the Latvian border into a landscape dotted with thousands of crosses—each one a testament to hope, faith, and resilience. The tour lasts about five hours, including hotel pickup, and is perfect if you want a combination of scenic driving, cultural insight, and a visit to one of the Baltic’s most iconic sites.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guide, Armands, who impresses with his passion and detailed storytelling—something travelers highlight repeatedly. Second, the emotional impact of the Hill of Crosses itself, a place that’s both beautiful and deeply meaningful. On the flip side, you might find the drive is quite long—about 130 km from Riga—so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of time on the road.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, meaningful experience beyond city sights, especially those curious about Lithuanian traditions or seeking a spiritual, reflective stop. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a small group or want a private guide to tailor your visit. If you’re after a straightforward sightseeing trip with insider stories and a chance to place your own cross, this tour will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Expert guidance makes the visit more meaningful and informative.
• Close proximity to Riga offers a manageable day trip with scenic views.
• The Hill of Crosses symbolizes resilience and faith, with thousands of crosses of various materials.
• Cultural and religious significance makes this a deeply emotional stop.
• The small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Additional stops like Jelgava enrich the journey without adding complexity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point and Transportation

Once you’re collected from your Riga hotel—just a short wait in the lobby—the tour begins with a comfortable vehicle. With a group limited to four participants, you’ll enjoy plenty of space and attention from your guide, Armands, who impresses with his wealth of local knowledge and friendly demeanor.

The drive itself is part of the charm. It covers about 130 km to the Lithuanian border, passing through the scenic rural landscape of Southern Latvia. Travelers consistently mention how the journey offers glimpses of Latvia’s countryside, including fields, forests, and even wildlife like roe deer and foxes, which adds a natural element to the experience. One reviewer fondly recalls seeing a raccoon dog and appreciating the entertaining commentary from Armands.

Crossing the Latvia-Lithuania Border

The border crossing is straightforward, typically with the opportunity for a quick coffee break. This small pause lets travelers stretch their legs and take in the transition from Latvia to Lithuania, a moment that feels symbolic of stepping into a different cultural space.

Approaching the Hill of Crosses

After roughly 30 km in Lithuania, you arrive near the town of Siauliai, where the Hill of Crosses awaits. This site is truly unique: a hill (or a castle mound) covered with thousands of crosses, ranging from tiny tokens to large crucifixes, made from wood, metal, and other materials. The crosses have been placed here over decades—initially by locals, and during the Soviet era, secretly replaced after removal by authorities, reflecting an ongoing act of defiance and hope.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Hill of Crosses

Your guide will give you context about its significance—a symbol of faith, hope, and Lithuanian resilience. Despite being desecrated and burned during Soviet times, the crosses kept reappearing, making this a powerful testament to spiritual perseverance. In 1993, Pope John Paul II visited and held a service here, further elevating its importance.

You’ll have approximately 30-40 minutes to wander, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. Many find visiting during sunrise or sunset especially moving, with the changing light adding to the emotional weight of the site. As one reviewer says, “The Hill of Crosses may not be to everyone’s taste, but to see more of beautiful Latvia it was worth it.”

Personal Crosses and Reflection

One of the highlights for many visitors is the opportunity to place their own crosses, marking personal milestones or offering prayers—an act of faith that becomes a memorable part of the visit. The main message? Belief is the key.

Return Journey and Additional Stops

On the way back, your guide might take you for a quick photo stop at Russian Orthodox churches in Jelgava and Riga, adding cultural depth to the trip. The entire journey, including driving and sightseeing, lasts around five hours, with plenty of time to relax and reflect.

The Value of the Tour

This tour isn’t just about ticking a box of sights; it’s about connecting with a place that embodies hope and resilience. The private guide ensures you get personalized stories and the chance to ask questions, making the trip engaging and tailored to your interests. The small group size fosters intimacy, and the inclusive price covers hotel pickup, guide service, and water, making it good value for such a meaningful experience.

Practicalities and Considerations

While the drive is a bit long, the comfort of the vehicle and the scenic views make it worthwhile. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the guide speaks both English and Russian, accommodating diverse travelers. It’s advisable to bring your passport or ID for border crossing.

Note that food and drinks other than water are not included, so pack snacks if needed. Also, the site is quite open—wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to visit during sunrise or sunset.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value cultural and emotional depth in their trips. If you’re curious about Baltic history, enjoy symbolic sites, or want a peaceful, reflective outing, you’ll find plenty to appreciate. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want to avoid the hassle of navigating borders alone.

Travelers with small children have found the trip enjoyable, especially with the guide’s consideration and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. It suits those seeking a meaningful, authentic experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

The From Riga: Hill of Crosses Private Guided Tour balances scenic travel, cultural storytelling, and personal reflection. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Lithuanian resilience, the significance of faith, and the natural beauty of the Baltics. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge stand out, making this not just a trip but an experience full of stories and emotional moments.

While the drive is substantial, the payoff in understanding and connection makes it worth considering. It’s especially suited for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative side of the Baltics, or anyone interested in visiting one of Europe’s most moving symbols of hope.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
The drive covers approximately 130 km, which takes about 2 hours, depending on border crossing times and traffic.

Is this tour suitable for small children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for small children, especially since the group is small, allowing for more flexibility and comfort.

What should I bring with me?
A passport or ID card for border crossing is essential. Also, consider bringing water, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if visiting during sunrise or sunset.

Are meals included?
No, food and other drinks are not included—just water if requested. You might want to bring snacks or plan to stop for a meal after the tour.

What is the significance of the Hill of Crosses?
It’s a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and Lithuanian resistance. Despite being desecrated and destroyed multiple times, the crosses keep reappearing, embodying resilience.

How personalized is this tour?
With a small group and a private guide, you’ll get tailored stories and plenty of time to explore and take photos.

Can I place my own cross during the visit?
Absolutely. Many visitors choose to add a cross to mark a personal milestone or prayer—an act of hope and belief.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide offers services in both English and Russian, making it accessible for most travelers.

This tour offers a meaningful, scenic, and culturally rich experience, ideal for those seeking to connect deeply with Baltic traditions and stories of resilience. Whether you’re a history buff, spiritual seeker, or simply curious about Lithuania’s symbols, it’s a trip that’s likely to stay with you long after.

You can check availability for your dates here: