From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Enchanting Jelgava Group Tour

From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Enchanting Jelgava Group Tour

If you’re in Riga and craving a meaningful excursion beyond the city’s charming old town, this 7-hour guided tour offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and Latvian life. For $69.66 per person, you’ll cross into Lithuania to visit the famous Hill of Crosses, with its thousands of crosses symbolizing resilience and faith, and then explore Jelgava, Latvia’s picturesque small city, with stops at a lovely Orthodox cathedral, a scenic riverside promenade, and a grand Baroque palace.

What we love most about this trip is how smoothly it combines the powerful visual impact of the Hill of Crosses with the warmth of local Latvian culture in Jelgava. The small-group setting (max 16 travelers) ensures you get plenty of personalized attention, while the comfortable transport, WiFi, and bottled water make for an enjoyable ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that the drive involves some long stretches, so patience and a good book or podcast are your friends. This tour is especially suited for curious travelers eager to learn more about the Baltic region’s history and culture, with a flexible pace and plenty of authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Unique Sites: Visit Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses, a powerful symbol of faith and resilience, plus historic Jelgava in Latvia.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Erlens and Elvis are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories that bring the regions’ history alive.
• Comfort & Convenience: The tour includes air-conditioned transport, WiFi, bottled water, and treats, making long hours in the vehicle enjoyable.
• Balanced Itinerary: You get to explore significant sites independently while benefiting from insightful commentary.
• Value for Money: At around $70, it offers a rich mix of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences, often booked well in advance.
• Authentic Experiences: From leaving a cross on the hill to walking Jelgava’s waterfront, the tour emphasizes genuine local life.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Convenience and Comfort

Your adventure begins at Herdera laukums 6 in Riga at 9:00 am. The tour is operated by Latvia Guide Tours, with a friendly, professional guide like Erlens or Elvis leading the way. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned van equipped with WiFi and bottled water, making the long drive more enjoyable than you might expect. Many reviews highlight how the vehicle’s spaciousness and smooth ride set a relaxed tone for the day.

The group is capped at 16, which strikes a good balance—small enough for intimacy, large enough to give everyone a sense of camaraderie. As you settle in, your guide will likely share some interesting facts about the Baltic states, Latvian culture, or Lithuania, setting the scene for the day ahead.

The Hill of Crosses: A Profound and Visual Encounter

The main highlight of the tour is Kryziu Kalnas, Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses. The guide will explain its origins, which date back to the 19th century, when locals began leaving crosses as symbols of hope and resistance against oppression. Today, the site holds thousands of crosses, from tiny tokens to towering monuments, creating an almost surreal landscape that defies photography.

Many travelers, like Anne_P, describe it as “fabulous” and note that the experience of walking among the crosses leaves a lasting impression. Visitors are encouraged to leave their own cross if they wish, adding to the evolving story of resilience. Just nearby, the Domus Mariae Monastery offers a quiet spot for reflection, with a peaceful chapel open for visitors, adding a spiritual element to the visit.

The hour you spend here is enough to absorb the site’s significance and take plenty of photos. The guide will share stories about the crosses’ history, how they survived wars and communist repression, and why they remain a symbol of hope for Lithuanians and all Baltics.

Border Crossing & Scenic Drive

After the Crosses, you’ll pass through the Latvia-Lithuania border, a brief but noteworthy experience. Many reviews mention this as a straightforward process, with a quick stop at the border for photos. The 15-minute stop at Kalviai offers a chance to snap some pictures of the landscape and stretch your legs.

Jelgava’s Historic Charm

Back in Latvia, the next stops bring the city’s history to life. The St. Simeon and St. Anna Orthodox Cathedral is a striking example of 19th-century architecture, with an interior rich in iconography. Guides like Angela_A praise their host for “fantastic” insights, making the visit both educational and spiritual.

The Jelgava Promenade along the Lielupe River offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. The guide points out the Pedestrian Bridge Mitava, a beautiful spot to enjoy water views, walk along the river, and soak in Jelgava’s peaceful small-town vibe. It’s a perfect pause before heading to the grand Jelgava Palace.

Jelgava Palace: A Glimpse into Baltic Aristocracy

Designed by the famous architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, Jelgava Palace is the largest Baroque-style palace in the Baltics. Historically, it served as the residence of the Dukes of Courland. Today, it stands as a stunning reminder of the region’s noble past. The guide shares stories of its construction, its role during different eras, and its current function.

Visitors like AnnaMaria_K describe the palace as “beautiful,” and many appreciate the chance to see a magnificent historical site that’s often overlooked by mainstream travelers. The 20-minute visit gives enough time to admire the architecture, explore the gardens, and picture what life was like for the Baltic aristocracy.

Wrapping Up: A Well-Rounded Day

The tour ends back at the original meeting point, around 4:00 pm, just in time to enjoy the rest of your day in Riga or continue exploring Latvia. Many reviews highlight how the pace is well managed, with just enough time at each site to feel fulfilled without rushing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This day trip blends powerful cultural experiences with scenic travel at a reasonable price. The expert guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories that truly bring the region’s history alive. The stops at sites like the Hill of Crosses are unforgettable and offer a rare glimpse into Baltic resilience that you won’t find in typical city tours.

The inclusion of transportation, WiFi, water, and treats adds comfort to what could otherwise be a long day on the road. The small group size means you get personalized attention and the flexibility to ask questions or explore more independently.

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, cultural explorers, or anyone curious about the Baltic region’s enduring spirit. Its pace is comfortable, and the stops are meaningful, making it a genuinely enriching way to spend a day outside Riga.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour’s total is about 7 hours, including travel time, so expect a significant portion on the road. The comfortable minivan and WiFi help pass the time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience might be especially engaging for kids interested in history and scenic sites.

What should I bring for the visit to the Hill of Crosses?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll walk around the site. You might also want to bring a camera or smartphone for photos, and some cash if you wish to leave a cross or buy souvenirs.

Are there any meal options included?
Lunch is not included, but many reviews mention stopping in Jelgava for lunch, often in local eateries. The guide may accommodate requests for coffee or snacks.

Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Yes, visitors are welcome to leave a cross, which is part of the site’s ongoing story of faith and resilience.

How large is the group?
The tour caps at 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made around 54 days in advance, but it’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any special considerations for border crossings?
Border procedures are straightforward, but be prepared for a brief stop to have your documents checked.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Given the popularity, early booking is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This From Riga day trip offers a thoughtfully curated experience into the heart of the Baltic’s spiritual and cultural landscapes. Expect inspiring sights like the Hill of Crosses, a moving symbol of hope, combined with charming Latvian towns and grand palaces that tell stories of aristocratic grandeur. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts, you’ll gain insights that deepen your appreciation of the region’s resilience and history.

Ideal for those who enjoy authentic sites, scenic drives, and engaging storytelling, this tour delivers a full, meaningful day without feeling rushed or superficial. It’s perfect if you want to see beyond Riga’s borders and connect with the Baltic’s enduring spirit.

If you’re looking for a well-paced, informative, and memorable day out—this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a smart choice for curious travelers eager to learn, see, and feel the region’s resilience firsthand.