Group day trip from Riga to Hill of Crosses – 5 hour day tour!

Exploring the Hill of Crosses: A Small-Group Day Trip from Riga

If you’re after a genuinely meaningful outing during your stay in Riga, this small-group day trip to the Hill of Crosses promises a memorable experience. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a well-balanced mix of comfort, insight, and authentic culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the longish drive more pleasant, especially with a group limited to just eight people. Second, the flexibility to explore at your own pace—you’re given an hour at the site, plus printed materials to deepen your understanding. Third, the chance to leave your own cross adds a personal, almost pilgrimage-like touch.

On the flip side, keep in mind that the drive is around 5 hours in total, which might feel a bit long if you’re not used to extended road trips. Still, many travelers find the journey itself rewarding, thanks to the scenic countryside views and the thoughtful stops along the way.

This tour is ideal for those interested in culture, history, or spiritual sites, especially if you appreciate small-group intimacy and a more personalized experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful excursion outside the hustle of Riga’s city center, but who also prefer comfort and flexibility.

Good To Know

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Comfortable transportation in a minivan or 4WD makes the long drive enjoyable.
• Flexible exploration time at the Hill of Crosses allows you to absorb the atmosphere at your own pace.
• Cultural significance as a pilgrimage site appeals to those interested in history and spirituality.
• Additional stops at the Latvia-Lithuania border and a cathedral add extra interest.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a full-day, meaningful excursion.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Latviešu tirgus laukums 3 in Riga at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into a luxurious, air-conditioned minivan or 4WD, which is a big plus given the length of the drive. Reviewers consistently mention the comfortable ride and attentive driver, making the journey smoother than expected.

The small group size—no more than eight travelers—means you’ll rarely feel lost in a crowd. Several reviews highlight how this creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation and personalized attention from the guide, Tomas or Paul, both praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

The Border Stop

A notable feature is an optional photo stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border. Reviewers appreciated this moment as a scenic and cultural milestone—a chance to snap photos and stretch before heading into Lithuania. It’s a simple addition but adds a layer of authenticity to the trip, marking the journey between the two countries.

The Hill of Crosses

The main event is the one-hour exploration at Kryziu Kalnas, or the Hill of Crosses. This site is a striking sight: thousands of crosses of all sizes, shapes, and materials, scattered on a hill that many say resembles more a mountain than just a hill—though our guide wisely points out it’s technically a mountain.

Visitors are encouraged to take their time walking around, absorbing the spiritual and contemplative atmosphere. Reviewers emphasize that you can leave your own cross if you wish—an act of personal devotion or memory—and crosses are available for purchase on-site. Many found the experience deeply moving, with one reviewer describing it as “almost like going on a pilgrimage.”

Extra Stop at Jelgava

An unexpected bonus for some travelers was a brief stop in Jelgava, which adds a little historical flavor and breaks up the drive. Reviewers found these additional stops enjoyable and appreciated the guide’s effort to make the trip more engaging.

Return Journey

After the exploration, the group begins the return trip to Riga, with the tour concluding back at the starting point. The overall duration is approximately five hours—an ideal length for a day trip if you’re looking to escape the city without a full-day commitment.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

The Guide and Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, Tomas and Paul, as a key part of the experience. They are described as friendly, informative, and attentive, often including tidbits about the local culture and the significance of the site—adding depth beyond just sightseeing.

The Value for Money

At $68.25 per person, this tour delivers solid value. It includes private transportation, the border stop, printed informational materials, and the entrance fee to the Hill of Crosses. The small group setting and flexible exploration time make it a more intimate and tailored experience than larger bus trips.

The Site Itself

The Hill of Crosses is quietly breathtaking—a testament to resilience and faith. Whether you’re religious or simply curious, the sight of thousands of crosses, some towering and others tiny, creates a powerful visual statement. Reviewers mention how the site feels like a “mount” and how the atmosphere is contemplative but not overly commercialized.

Additional Stops and Insights

The extra stops—at the border and the nearby cathedral—enhance the trip by offering more context and scenery. Several reviews mention the printed materials provided, helping visitors understand the history and significance of the site, which enriches the overall experience.

Flexibility and Comfort

Unlike rigid group tours, this experience allows you to explore at your own pace, thanks to the ample free time and the small-group environment. The comfortable transport ensures that the long drive isn’t a chore and that you arrive refreshed.

Considerations for Travelers

While the trip offers many highlights, keep in mind that the drive is around 5 hours total. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter excursions, this could be a consideration. However, many find the scenic countryside views and the stops along the way offset this concern.

The tour is booked on average 27 days in advance, and it’s clear why—it’s a popular choice for those seeking a meaningful day outside Riga. Also, it’s suitable for most travelers, as it’s accessible and doesn’t require strenuous activity.

The Sum Up

This small-group trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses offers a unique, contemplative escape from city life. The comfortable transport, friendly guides, and flexible exploration make it a highly appealing choice for travelers interested in cultural, historical, or spiritual sites. The site itself leaves a lasting impression, with thousands of crosses symbolizing resilience and hope—an experience that stays with you.

The value for money is notable, especially considering the small group size and the thoughtfully included extras. It’s perfect for those wanting a deeper connection to the region beyond Rigas’ urban charm.

If you’re looking for a meaningful day trip with a good balance of comfort, insight, and authentic sights, this tour is a compelling option. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of Latvia and Lithuania’s shared history and spiritual resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
The entire journey lasts about five hours, including travel time and stops. The drive itself is roughly 2-2.5 hours each way, depending on traffic.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, given the comfortable transportation and manageable walking at the site, this tour can suit most ages. Just consider the long drive if traveling with very young children or elderly family members.

Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?
Absolutely. Visitors are welcome to leave their own cross, which many find meaningful. Crosses are available for purchase on-site if you’d like to bring one.

What extra stops are included?
Along With the Hill of Crosses, the tour makes a brief photo stop at the Latvia-Lithuania border and one more stop to admire a cathedral, adding context and scenery.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 27 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. Booking early ensures you secure a spot, especially in peak travel seasons.

What language does the guide speak?
The driver/guide speaks several languages and provides live commentary during the trip, making the experience accessible and informative.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
Yes, you can explore the Hill of Crosses at your own pace during the designated hour, and the group size allows for a relaxed experience.

Embark on this thoughtfully organized, small-group adventure and discover one of Lithuania’s most captivating symbols of faith and resilience—all within a scenic, comfortable day trip from Riga.