Exploring Latvia and Lithuania: A Small-Group Day Trip to the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace
If you’re looking for a day trip from Riga that combines spiritual symbolism, stunning architecture, and authentic local experiences, this guided tour from Jelgava offers a compelling choice. It’s a well-balanced way to see two of the region’s most iconic sites without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads.
What we love most about this experience is the chance to walk through the Hill of Crosses, a truly unique pilgrimage site with more than 200,000 crosses. It’s a place that inspires quiet reflection and awe. The second highlight that stands out is the visit to Rundale Palace, a glorious Baroque jewel that offers insight into Latvian history and architecture.
One potential consideration is the overall duration, which can stretch from 5 to 8 hours depending on how long you want to spend at each site. While the tour provides plenty of flexibility and time to explore at your own pace, it’s worth planning accordingly, especially if you’re tight on time or prefer a lighter itinerary.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy authentic cultural sites, appreciate guided insights, and prefer small group settings for a more personal experience. If you’re curious about regional history, religious traditions, or architecture, this trip hits those marks well.
Key Points
- Convenient Pickup: Starts at Jelgava train station, making logistics simple.
- Cultural Insight: Guided tour of the Hill of Crosses offers historical and spiritual context.
- Flexible Exploration: Ample time to visit Rundale Palace and explore at your own pace.
- Local Flavour: Opportunities to grab a bite or enjoy a coffee during the day.
- Small Group: Limited to 4 participants, which means more personalized attention.
- Value for Money: Includes guided tours, a photo stop at the border, and time to relax.
The Journey Begins: From Jelgava to the Hill of Crosses
The tour kicks off at Stacijas iela 1 in Jelgava, where you’ll meet your guide and get comfortable in a small, air-conditioned vehicle. This initial part of the trip is your chance to soak up the scenery as you travel north into Lithuania.
The Hill of Crosses is the first major stop. It’s roughly a one-hour guided tour, but the time feels much longer once you’re there. You’ll walk among thousands of crosses—some tall, some tiny—a testament to faith, resistance, and hope. The guide shares stories behind the site’s significance, explaining its history as a pilgrimage destination that’s grown over decades.
A notable feature is the possibility to add your own cross or pin on a map, representing your country or region. This act of participation makes the experience more personal and memorable. Travelers have appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way our guide explained the significance of each cross without rushing us.”
While the toilet facilities at the site might be basic and are not included, the tour allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Jelgava.
A Scenic Drive and a Stop for a Bite
From the hill, the journey continues southward towards Latvia. The drive offers scenic views of the countryside, giving an authentic feel of Baltic rural life. During the ride, there’s an opportunity to stop for a snack or a coffee, with food costs being separate from the tour fee. This break is a nice chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the scenery.
The guide might also suggest a quick photo stop at the border, adding a subtle touch of international flavor to the day.
Rundale Palace: Latvia’s Baroque Treasure
After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Rundale Palace in the Latvian countryside—an absolute highlight for architecture lovers. The palace, often dubbed a Baroque pearl, dates back to the 18th century and is a testament to Latvian craftsmanship and elegance.
Unlike guided tours that might involve a lot of structured walking, this visit is self-paced—you can explore the palace interiors, gardens, and grounds on your own. Tickets are not included, but the flexibility allows you to spend as much time as you like exploring. The architecture and opulent interiors are sure to leave an impression, especially if you enjoy history or design.
Based on reviews, visitors appreciate the informative guides and the relaxed atmosphere, with one noting, “Our guide was really friendly and informative but also left us to explore ourselves which was perfect.” It’s a chance to wander through lavish rooms, admire intricate woodwork, and imagine life during Latvia’s aristocratic past.
Returning to Jelgava: A Fitting End to the Day
After around 1.5 hours at Rundale Palace, the group boards the vehicle for the return trip. The journey back is a good time to reflect on what you’ve seen, share impressions, or just enjoy the scenery. The tour concludes back at Stacijas iela 1 in Jelgava, making logistics straightforward.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Tips
- Duration: The full experience lasts between 5 to 8 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each site and during breaks.
- Start Time: Check availability for specific starting times, which vary.
- What’s Included: The tour covers a guided visit to the Hill of Crosses, a photo stop at the border, time to eat and drink (costs not included), and the freedom to explore Rundale Palace.
- What’s Not: Entrance fees for Rundale Palace are extra, and train tickets to Jelgava are not included.
- Group Size: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Language: The guide speaks in English, Dutch, French, or German, making it accessible for many travelers.
- Important to Bring: Passport or ID card for border crossing.
Authentic Experiences and What You’ll Take Away
This tour offers more than just sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the region’s cultural fabric. Visiting the Hill of Crosses provides a glimpse into the spiritual resilience of the local people. The steady, respectful walk among thousands of crosses can be surprisingly stirring, especially for those interested in religious traditions or history of resistance.
By contrast, Rundale Palace offers a look at Latvian aristocratic life through stunning architecture and lush gardens. It’s a place that’s easy to imagine being the backdrop for a period drama or a royal gathering. The flexibility to explore on your own allows for a personal connection with the space—some travelers prefer this approach, as noted in reviews praising the “informative guide” and the “leisurely exploration.”
The small group setup means you won’t be just another face in a crowd—more of a local friend sharing stories and insights. This personalized approach is highly valued, especially in a region where authentic experiences are prized.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal if you’re in Riga and want a well-organized day trip that balances cultural sites, scenic drives, and personal exploration. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or those simply curious about regional traditions.
Travelers who appreciate small groups will find this a more intimate and flexible alternative to larger bus tours. The pace allows for comfort and reflection, making it suitable for older travelers or families with children.
If you’re on a tight schedule but want to see meaningful sites without fussing over logistics, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in combining religious symbolism with Latvian aristocratic history.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances guided insights with personal freedom. The highlights—the spiritual symbolism of the Hill of Crosses and the architectural splendor of Rundale Palace—are among the most compelling in the region.
The guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes all the difference, giving you context without overshadowing your own exploration. The small group size fosters an intimate experience, ideal for travelers who enjoy engaging conversations and personalized attention.
While the cost excludes entrance fees and meals, the overall value lies in the hassle-free organization, expert guiding, and authentic sites visited. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just seeking a meaningful day outside Riga, this trip delivers a well-rounded, memorable experience.
FAQs
Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation is included; you’ll travel in a comfortable car from Jelgava to the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace.
Do I need to book tickets for Rundale Palace separately?
Yes, tickets are not included, so you can explore the palace at your own pace once inside.
How much time do I have at each site?
You’ll spend approximately 1 hour at the Hill of Crosses and 1.5 hours at Rundale Palace, with flexibility to explore more if you wish.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour’s pace and sites are generally suitable for families, but consider the walking involved and the interest in cultural sites.
What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks English, Dutch, French, and German.
What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is necessary for border crossing, along with comfortable walking shoes and some cash for meals or extra expenses.
This tour offers a meaningful, relaxed way to see some of the Baltic region’s most distinctive sights—perfect for travelers craving cultural depth and personal connection.
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