From Riga: The Hill of Crosses Private Guided Tour

Thinking about a day trip that blends history, spirituality, and stunning scenery? This guided tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania offers an emotionally powerful experience combined with the comfort of a well-organized, small-group excursion. While it’s a five-hour journey, the wealth of sights and stories makes every minute worthwhile.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to explore a symbol of hope and resilience – from crossing the Latvia-Lithuania border with ease, to marveling at the thousands of crosses covering a hill near Šiauliai. The scenic drive through rural Latvia, along with a stop in Jelgava, adds a touch of local flavor. However, keep in mind that it’s a lengthy day with limited free time at the site, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and cultural symbolism.

This tour is especially perfect for travelers who appreciate meaningful landmarks, comfortable transportation, and having an engaging guide to enrich the experience. If you’re curious about Lithuanian traditions, or simply want a hassle-free way to see this incredible site, then this trip could be a highlight of your Baltic adventure.

Good To Know

• Easy logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it hassle-free, especially from Riga.
• Authentic insights: Knowledgeable guides like Armands bring history and local stories alive.
• Emotional site: The Hill of Crosses symbolizes faith, hope, and Lithuanian resilience.
• Scenic journey: Drive through rural Latvia and stop in Jelgava enriches the trip.
• Flexible experience: About 30-40 minutes at the site for photos and exploration.
• Small group size: Limited to 4 participants ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This guided excursion offers a seamless way to visit the Hill of Crosses without the stress of planning. Starting with hotel pickup (just wait in the lobby 5 minutes early), you’ll be comfortably transported in a vehicle that’s wheelchair accessible, accommodating small groups up to four people. The guide, speaking English and Russian, not only shares historical details but also makes the journey engaging and fun, as reflected by glowing reviews.

The Drive from Riga and Border Crossing

The trip begins with a scenic drive of approximately 130 km from Riga, offering travelers a chance to see the countryside and even spot local wildlife, as one review noted seeing roe deer, foxes, and raccoon dogs. The border crossing into Lithuania is smooth, with a short coffee break possible afterwards, providing a moment to stretch and enjoy a local brew before heading further west.

Jelgava Stopover

On the way, Jelgava offers a quick glimpse into Latvian towns with its charming streets and local atmosphere. This stop adds variety to the journey, breaking up the drive and giving you a taste of Latvia’s rural beauty. Reviewers appreciated the driver’s safe, smooth ride, which made the long drive enjoyable rather than tiring.

Arrival at the Hill of Crosses

Once in Lithuania, the highlight awaits. Located near Šiauliai, the Hill of Crosses is a hauntingly beautiful site covered with thousands of crosses of various sizes and materials. It’s a powerful sight that truly exemplifies Lithuanian resilience—desecrated and burned during Soviet rule but always rebuilding.

According to reviews, the emotional impact is significant, especially during sunrise or sunset when the lighting makes the crosses glow. Visitors are encouraged to add their own crosses, symbolizing personal hopes, prayers, or memories—an act of faith that resonates deeply with many.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Guided Commentary and Free Exploration

Your guide, like Armands, will share stories about the site’s history, including the visit by Pope John Paul II in 1993, who held a service here and later sent a crucifix that still graces the site. Expect around 30-40 minutes for photos, wandering, and soaking in the atmosphere. Many mention how the guide’s insights make the experience more meaningful—highlighting its significance beyond just a photo opportunity.

Additional Stops and Return

On the way back to Riga, some tours include stops at Orthodox churches in Jelgava and Riga, giving travelers a broader perspective on Baltic religious sites. The return journey is relaxed, with plenty of time to reflect on what you’ve seen.

Transportation and Price Value

The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds tremendous convenience, eliminating the need to navigate public transport or rent a car. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention, and the guide’s bilingual skills ensure clear communication.

At a price point that reflects the full experience—covering transportation, guiding, border crossings, and a visit to a major cultural landmark—the value is notable. You’re paying for comfort, local insights, and the opportunity to add your own cross, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a personal pilgrimage of sorts.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledge and Personality

Guest reviews consistently praise guides like Armands for their professionalism, friendliness, and broad knowledge. Beyond facts, they create a relaxed atmosphere, answer questions, and even offer to take photos—many reviewers appreciated the care taken to ensure they could fully absorb and enjoy the site.

Timing and Duration

While five hours might seem long, the actual time at the site is manageable, and the drive through the countryside offers a welcome break from typical city sightseeing. Early mornings or late afternoon trips are particularly atmospheric, especially for photographers and those seeking a quieter experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who are interested in cultural landmarks, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate stories of resilience and faith. It’s ideal for those who want a comfortable and informative day with a small, intimate group, rather than a crowded bus tour.

If you’re curious about Lithuanian traditions or want a meaningful experience that offers both history and spiritual symbolism, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It also caters well to travelers with mobility needs, thanks to its wheelchair accessibility.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour makes visiting the Hill of Crosses from Riga straightforward and rewarding. The combination of scenic drives, insightful guides, and a site that embodies hope and perseverance makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to connect with Lithuanian culture on a personal level.

The small group format and knowledgeable guides like Armands mean you’ll get plenty of personalized attention and stories that truly bring the site to life. The opportunity to add your own cross makes this experience uniquely meaningful, turning a sightseeing trip into a personal act of faith and hope.

While the day is quite packed and involves a fair amount of driving, the emotional and cultural payoff is well worth it. Whether you’re a history buff, spiritual seeker, or just someone looking to explore beyond Riga’s city limits, this tour offers a memorable taste of Lithuanian resilience and tradition.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Riga to the Hill of Crosses?
Approximately 130 km, with the journey taking around 5 hours including border crossing and stops.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Riga.

What should I bring?
You’ll need your passport or ID card for border crossing, and it’s wise to bring water, comfortable clothes, and camera gear for photos.

Are meals included?
Food and drinks are not included, though there may be opportunities for a coffee break during the trip.

What is the group size?
Limited to four participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the site accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s good to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

How much time do I get at the Hill of Crosses?
Around 30-40 minutes for photos, exploration, and adding your own cross.

What times does the tour usually start?
Check availability for options; start times vary, so you can choose based on your schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families have enjoyed the trip, especially since there’s room for kids to explore and the drive is comfortable.

In summary, this private guided tour from Riga offers a meaningful, scenic, and hassle-free way to experience one of Lithuania’s most iconic symbols. With knowledgeable guides, flexible timing, and a small group setting, it’s a memorable journey into faith, hope, and resilience that any traveler with an interest in culture and history should consider.

You can check if your dates are available here: