Jelgava is a surprisingly versatile base for exploring some of Latvia’s and Lithuania’s most compelling sights. While many travelers overlook this charming city, it’s actually a hub for memorable day trips that blend history, architecture, and cultural landmarks. From the towering Hill of Crosses to the regal Rundale Palace, Jelgava offers a wealth of experiences that are perfect for those wanting a full, authentic day outside the bustling capital. Our favorite? The guided tours that weave these highlights into seamless, insightful excursions, especially the ones that include a splash of local charm and practical logistics.
If you’re in Riga and craving a day beyond the city, these tours make it easy to see some remarkable sights with expert guides who know their stuff. Whether you’re interested in religious symbolism at the Hill of Crosses or the baroque splendor of Rundale Palace, Jelgava’s the perfect jumping-off point to enrich your Baltic trip.
Quick Overview
Below, we present a selection of the top tours departing from Riga that focus on Jelgava and nearby Lithuanian highlights. Each offers a different way to experience the region’s culture and architecture, with options for half-day and full-day adventures. From the 5.5-hour shared trip to the Hill of Crosses to the longer day trip that includes Rundale Palace, you’ll find options suited for various schedules and interests.
1. 5,5 Hour Shared Tour to Hill of Crosses from Riga
At number 1 on our list, this half-day trip takes you on a 5.5-hour journey from Riga to the iconic Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. This tour is a wonderful way to combine a trip into Lithuania, a border crossing, and a visit to Jelgava, all in one smooth ride. The scenic drive includes stops at the Latvia-Lithuania border for photos and a quick look at Jelgava Palace’s exterior, providing a taste of local architecture and history. The highlight, of course, is the Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of faith with over 100,000 crosses, where you get free time to explore and reflect.
What makes this tour stand out is its engaging guide, who shares interesting facts about the Hill of Crosses and the surrounding area. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy the site and take photos. The trip departs from St. Peter’s Church in Riga and includes comfortable transportation, making it a stress-free day out. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the smooth logistics, with a notable comment: “Very nice and good guide. Tour is highly recommended.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a compact, well-organized trip with meaningful stops, especially if seeing the Hill of Crosses is a top priority.
2. From Riga Jelgava train station: hill of crosses, Rundale
Number 2 offers a flexible, self-paced adventure with a guided touch. This tour begins at Jelgava train station, making it straightforward to hop on and explore at your own pace. The trip includes a guided visit to the Hill of Crosses, where you’ll learn about its significance and see over 200,000 crosses—an impressive sight that embodies religious devotion and resilience.
Afterward, the tour continues to Rundale Palace, a stunning Baroque masterpiece often called Latvia’s Versailles. You’ll have around 1.5 hours here to stroll through the gardens and interiors or grab a snack. The emphasis on flexibility means you can take your time, and the guide ensures you understand the history behind each site. Reviewers like Maarten, who was praised for his friendly approach and driving skills, reinforce the value of a personalized experience. One reviewer noted, “We had a great day and managed to see everything we wanted to, thanks to the guide.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace, with time to explore each site individually.
3. From Riga: Hill of Crosses and Jelgava Day Trip and back
This full-day trip is a solid choice for those wanting an immersive experience. Lasting around 5 to 6 hours, it combines a visit to the Hill of Crosses with a stop in Jelgava to see the impressive Jelgava Palace from the outside. The tour emphasizes learning about the pilgrimage tradition at the Hill of Crosses, with travelers able to put a pin on the map at the site to represent their own country.
While the tour receives slightly lower ratings (4.2/5), the reviews highlight the friendly guide and the beauty of the sights. One traveler remarked, “The hill was very interesting and definitely worth going to,” though they also pointed out that winter weather could be a factor. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule and want to see multiple sights comfortably in one day.
Bottom Line: A good value for those looking for a comprehensive day trip, especially if you’re interested in combining religious symbolism with architectural grandeur.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your time, budget, and interests. Want a short, insightful trip focused solely on the Hill of Crosses? The first tour offers a quick, well-paced journey with a knowledgeable guide. Looking for more flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace? The second option provides that, with time at each site for personal discovery. If you prefer a full-day itinerary that covers multiple highlights, the third tour covers both the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava’s Palace.
Also, think about logistics—if you’re arriving in Riga by train, the second tour’s pickup from Jelgava station might be most convenient. For travelers with limited time or wanting a guided group experience, the first might suit best. For those who prefer a leisurely exploration, the third provides a full schedule with plenty of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Jelgava and the surrounding regions offer a surprising variety of sights, from the powerful symbolism of the Hill of Crosses to the regal beauty of Rundale Palace. The tours listed here provide options for different interests and schedules—whether you prefer a quick half-day trip or a full-day adventure. For first-time visitors, the guided tours with expert commentary help make the history come alive.
If you’re planning your trip, consider booking early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. All three options are highly rated and have consistently positive reviews, making them reliable choices for a memorable day outside Riga. Whether you’re drawn to faith, history, or architecture, Jelgava’s tours will enrich your Baltic experience.
Happy travels!