From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Jelgava Highlights

Riga , Latvia

From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Jelgava Highlights

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(140 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

• A well-paced full-day experience
This tour is designed to feel balanced and unhurried, allowing time to experience each place rather than rushing through highlights.

• Guided insight and personal time at the Hill of Crosses
Learn the history and symbolism of this powerful site with your guide, followed by free time to explore independently. Guests may also visit the nearby Franciscan monastery and chapel.

• Jelgava as a meaningful second destination
The experience continues in Jelgava with guided visits to key sights, including the riverside promenade, the Orthodox Cathedral, and Jelgava Palace (viewed from the outside).

• Thoughtfully organized shared tour
This is a shared tour with a clear structure and careful planning, ensuring smooth timing and guest comfort.

• A subtle local touch to conclude the day
The experience concludes with a small local element many travelers don’t expect, offering an authentic way to round off the journey.

Available options

From Riga: Hill of Crosses & Jelgava Highlights

What's included

Professional English-speaking guide

Guided visits to the Hill of Crosses and key sites in Jelgava

All taxes and fees

Bottled water

External visit to Jelgava Palace with historical explanation

Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle

Guided photo stop at the Latvia–Lithuania border

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide in Riga and begin the journey toward Lithuania. During the drive, the guide provides historical and cultural context about Latvia, Lithuania, and the places you will visit throughout the day.

Make a guided photo stop at the Latvia–Lithuania border. Learn about the historical significance of the border region and take photos marking the crossing between two countries.

Stop 3

Arrive at the Hill of Crosses, one of the most powerful spiritual and cultural landmarks in the Baltics. The guide introduces the history, symbolism, and traditions of the site.
After the guided explanation, enjoy approximately one hour of free time to explore the hill independently, reflect, take photos, and place a cross if you wish.
Guests also have the opportunity to visit the nearby Franciscan monastery, where the chapel is open to visitors.
Domus Mariae Monastery (nearby)
A peaceful monastery offering quiet reflection and an open chapel for visitors. A serene contrast to the dramatic symbolism of the hill.

Visit Jelgava’s St. Simeon’s and St. Anna’s Orthodox Cathedral. Learn about the history and significance of this striking landmark during a guided visit.

Take a guided walk along Jelgava’s riverside promenade, enjoying views of the river and learning about the city’s development and modern life.

Enjoy a planned lunch break at a local lunch place or restaurant. To save time, guests may pre-order their meal during the drive so that food is ready upon arrival.
(Meal not included in the tour price.)

View Jelgava Palace from the outside and learn about its history as the former residence of the Dukes of Courland and its present-day role as a university building.
This stop also marks a relaxed conclusion to the day, with a subtle local touch offered in a historic setting to thoughtfully round off the experience.

Stop 8 Pass by

After a full and well-structured day exploring cultural and historical highlights beyond the capital, relax on the drive back to Riga and conclude the tour at Dome Square near Riga Cathedral.

What's not included

Lunch and drinks (available for purchase during the tour; pre-order option available)

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

82 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

58 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Coffee stops and detours can be arranged with driver

Meeting point

Please meet the driver/guide in front of the main entrance of Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms).

About Riga

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, medieval Old Town, and lively cultural scene. With its rich history, beautiful parks, and bustling markets, Riga offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

Top Attractions

Riga Old Town

The heart of Riga, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant squares.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Art Nouveau District

Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau buildings, particularly in the district around Alberta Street. This architectural style is a must-see for visitors.

Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore

Central Market

One of the largest markets in Eastern Europe, the Central Market offers a variety of fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary

Riga Motor Museum

This unique museum showcases a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, providing a fascinating look at the history of transportation in Latvia.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pelēkie zivtiņi

Gray peas with bacon and sausages, a traditional Latvian dish often served with potatoes.

Main Course Contains meat and pork

Rupjmaize

Dark rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine, often served with butter and cheese.

Bread Vegetarian

Skābeņu zupa

Sour rye soup, a traditional Latvian soup made with rye flour, meat, and sour cream.

Soup Contains meat and dairy

Pīrāgi

Small buns filled with bacon or other savory fillings, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Bobsledding in Sigulda Zip-lining in Sigulda Hiking in Kemeri National Park Spa treatments in Jūrmala Sunbathing at Jūrmala Beach Strolling through Riga's parks Visiting museums and historical sites Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The weather is ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Latvian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Riga is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night

Getting there

By air

Riga International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Riga Central Station

By bus

Riga Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and affordable way to get around Riga. The system is well-connected and easy to use.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, eTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Art Nouveau District Spīķeri

Day trips

Jūrmala

25 km from Riga • Full day

Jūrmala is a popular seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches, wooden architecture, and spa facilities.

Sigulda

50 km from Riga • Full day

Sigulda is a picturesque town known for its medieval castle, beautiful nature, and adventure activities.

Cēsis

85 km from Riga • Full day

Cēsis is a charming town known for its medieval castle, beautiful parks, and local crafts.

Festivals

Riga Jurmala Music Festival • May Riga Christmas Market • December Riga City Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the Central Market for fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.
Explore the Art Nouveau District for stunning architecture and unique shops.
Take a day trip to Jūrmala for beautiful beaches and relaxation.
Try traditional Latvian dishes like pelēkie zivtiņi and skābeņu zupa.
Visit Riga's museums and historical sites to learn about the city's rich history.