From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Jelgava Highlights

From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Jelgava Highlights — An Authentic Cross-Border Day Trip

Exploring beyond Riga’s urban charm, this tour offers a chance to experience two distinct Baltic countries in just over seven hours. We’ve reviewed this trip based on numerous traveler feedback and detailed itineraries, and it’s clear this is an excellent way to uncover some hidden gems—particularly if you’re into cultural sites, architecture, and meaningful historical spots.

What we love about this tour is its seamless blend of sacred symbolism at the Hill of Crosses, the relaxed elegance of Jelgava, and the expert guidance that makes history come alive. The fact that you visit two countries in one day is pretty impressive, especially considering the comfort and value that come with it.

One thing to keep in mind is the early start and full schedule — the day is packed, which might be a bit tiring if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing. Still, if you’re after an immersive, well-organized experience that packs in multiple highlights, this tour is perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone eager to see more of the Baltics without the hassle of planning individual trips.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned van with small group sizes for a more personal experience.
• Rich Cultural Highlights: Visit Lithuania’s famous Hill of Crosses and explore Jelgava’s grand palace, cathedral, and riverside promenade.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories that connect history and present-day Latvia and Lithuania.
• Well-Paced Itinerary: Plenty of time at each stop, including an hour for lunch, ensuring a relaxed experience.
• Value for Money: At just $30 per person, with bottled water and guided tours included, it offers great bang for your buck.
• Authentic Experiences: Beyond tourist clichés, the trip reveals lesser-known but meaningful sights, with authentic local commentary.

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Special

Starting Point: Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms)

The tour kicks off from the iconic Riga Cathedral, a central and easily accessible meeting spot. This is your starting line, and it’s a good place to get your bearings before heading out into the countryside.

Border Crossing & Lithuanian Hill of Crosses

The journey begins with a roughly 1-hour drive, and you’ll cross the border from Latvia into Lithuania. This part of the trip is smooth, and some reviews even mention stopping briefly for photos at the border, which adds to the sense of venturing into a new country. The highlight here is the Hill of Crosses — a hauntingly beautiful site where thousands of crosses, of all shapes and sizes, form a powerful testament to faith and resistance.

Travelers rave about how impressive the site is: one reviewer notes it’s “really impressive and not a lot of people were there,” which makes for a peaceful visit. Another describes the crosses as “very unique and inspirational,” emphasizing how the visual impact leaves a lasting impression. Expect to spend around 80 minutes here, giving you enough time to walk among the crosses, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lithuanian Orthodox Cathedral & Promenade in Jelgava

After returning to Latvia, your guide takes you to Jelgava, a city often overlooked but full of charm. The Orthodox Cathedral, with its distinctive architecture, offers a peaceful stop, and most reviews mention how insightful guides are during the tour, sharing stories about the local religious and historical significance.

Next, you’ll stroll down Driksas Promenade, a serene riverside area perfect for a quick walk and photos. The guide’s commentary helps you understand Jelgava’s history as the Duchy of Courland’s former capital, giving depth to the town’s beautiful architecture and quiet streets.

Jelgava Castle & Local Lunch

A key highlight is Jelgava Castle, which today functions as a museum and a striking example of baroque architecture. Guests report that it’s a “lovely little town,” and the castle’s gardens and courtyards make for a refreshing break from busier tourist sites.

For lunch, the tour includes a stop at a cozy café called “Silva,” where you can enjoy local treats and a warm drink, with meals at your own expense — a great way to relax and discuss the morning’s sights. One reviewer mentions the food and prices were “awesome,” adding to the overall value of the experience.

Final Stops & Return Journey

The last part of the journey features a brief stop at St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral, offering more insight into Latvia’s religious heritage. The guided tour here is described as “very helpful,” with visitors appreciating the detailed stories.

Your driver then takes you to the courtyard of Jelgava Palace for a quick photo stop, rounding out the day’s sightseeing. Afterward, there’s time to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before heading back to Riga, where the trip concludes at Riga Cathedral, completing a full circle.

Why This Tour Stands Out for Travelers

The Quality of Guides and Personal Touch

Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Victoria, Erlens, and Elvis made the trip memorable — their enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and storytelling bring each site to life. Many mention how the guides are approachable, and some appreciate small details, like sharing extra stories or taking photos, making it feel like a friendly, personalized experience.

The Significance of the Hill of Crosses

Visitors describe the Hill of Crosses as “powerful,” “humbling,” and “impressive,” emphasizing that it’s more than a sightseeing stop — it’s an emotional journey. The crosses, ranging from tiny to towering, reflect resilience and faith, making this site a must-see for anyone interested in meaningful landmarks.

Jelgava’s Hidden Charm

Compared to Riga’s bustling Old Town, Jelgava feels quieter and more relaxed. Guests love strolling its promenade, visiting the palace, and enjoying the local atmosphere. Many mention that Jelgava’s architecture and gardens are underrated as a Baltic destination.

Value and Comfort

At around $30, this tour offers excellent value, especially with bottled water, guided commentary, and a small-group setting. The comfortable van ensures the long day remains enjoyable, and reviews note that the timing and organization are well thought out, making the experience smooth from start to finish.

Food and Beverage Experience

While meals are at your own expense, the included coffee break at Silva café receives praise for its cozy setting and good prices. Many travelers also enjoy the small local surprises, like a shot of Riga Black Balsam, which adds a touch of authentic flavor to the day.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

Transportation & Group Size

Travelers consistently mention the comfort of the air-conditioned van and the small group size, which enhances interaction and flexibility. This is especially appreciated by those who dislike large tour buses.

Duration & Timing

The 7.5-hour schedule is packed but balanced, with sufficient time at each stop. If you’re someone who enjoys thorough exploration rather than rushing, this is a good fit. Be prepared for an early start, as the tour departs from Riga Cathedral, and start times vary.

What to Bring

Travelers recommend bringing your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a camera or smartphone for the numerous photo opportunities. Since the tour involves some walking, sturdy footwear is best.

Price & Value

For $30, this tour offers guided insights, transportation, bottled water, and a meaningful visit to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava. Considering the quality guides, well-planned itinerary, and authentic sites, it’s a worthwhile investment for those eager to experience more of the Baltic region without breaking the bank.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who crave a blend of history, culture, and spirituality in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those interested in seeing lesser-known sites that carry poignant stories — like the Hill of Crosses — and exploring charming towns like Jelgava.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive look at the Baltics’ deep-rooted traditions and architecture, this tour strikes a great balance. It’s also perfect for first-timers to Latvia and Lithuania, as guides share engaging stories that connect the dots of regional history.

For anyone who enjoys comfort, authentic experiences, and insightful commentary, this trip offers a memorable way to cross two countries and uncover some of the Baltic’s hidden treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned van, with a small group, ensuring a relaxed journey.

Do I need my passport?
Absolutely; you will cross the border between Latvia and Lithuania, so bringing your passport or ID is essential.

How long is the trip?
The whole experience lasts about 7.5 hours, with plenty of time at each stop for exploration and photos.

What is the highlight of this tour?
Most travelers mention the Hill of Crosses as the standout site, due to its powerful symbolism and visual impact.

Are meals included?
No, meals are at your own expense, but there’s a coffee break at a cozy café where you can relax and refuel.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, but it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or individuals over 95 due to the full schedule and walking involved.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is designed for small groups, usually around 5-10 participants, making it more personal and flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and meaningful sites.

To sum it up, this trip from Riga to the Hill of Crosses and Jelgava offers a fantastic mix of sacred sites, architecture, and Baltic charm, all delivered with expert guides and excellent value. It’s perfect for culture seekers, history lovers, and those wanting a meaningful glimpse into Latvia and Lithuania’s shared heritage. Whether you’re eager to see the iconic crosses, stroll through elegant Jelgava, or simply enjoy a comfortable, well-organized day out, this tour ticks all the boxes.

You can check if your dates are available here: