Hill of Crosses, Jelgava and Jurmala Private Day Tour from Riga
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Enjoy a diverse and memorable day trip from Riga combining culture, history, spirituality, nature. Visit the iconic Hill of Crosses in Lithuania – one of Europe’s most unique pilgrimage sites – before discovering Jelgava, home to the largest Baroque palace in the Baltics. Snap photos and learn about the city’s fascinating, turbulent past.
Continue your journey to Jurmala, Latvia’s beloved seaside resort town, famous for its beautiful wooden architecture, lively atmosphere, and white-sand beaches along the Baltic coast. Stroll the promenade, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy local treats before heading back to Riga.
This tour offers a balanced mix of architecture, history, religion, and nature, making it a great alternative to standard Hill of Crosses trips. It’s the perfect way to experience diverse sides of Latvia and Lithuania in one enriching day.
If you're traveling solo or as a couple and want to save money, feel free to message us — we may join you with other travelers!
Available options
Hill of Crosses, Jelgava and Jurmala Private Day Tour from Riga
What's included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Border Stop – optional photo stop at the Latvia–Lithuania border, marking the moment you visit two countries in one day. Please remember to bring your passport or EU ID, as although rare, border checks can occasionally occur.
2
Hill of Crosses – one of Lithuania’s most iconic sites, with thousands of crosses placed by locals over generations. It symbolizes faith, hope, and resistance, reflecting the country’s history and spirit. Your guide will share its story, and you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace – take photos, admire the variety of crosses, reflect, and even leave one if you wish.
3
Discover one of Jelgava’s most beautiful landmarks — the St. Simeon and St. Anne’s Orthodox Cathedral. Admire its striking blue-and-white façade, gleaming golden domes, and elegant architecture that stands out in the city skyline. Step inside (if open) to experience the peaceful atmosphere and intricate interior details typical of Orthodox churches. Your guide will share the story of how this cathedral was rebuilt after World War II and what it represents for Jelgava’s community today. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a glimpse into Latvia’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
4
Jelgava Palace – the largest Baroque palace in the Baltics and one of Latvia’s most impressive landmarks. Designed by the Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, who also worked on the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, it offers a glimpse into Latvia’s royal and cultural past.
Once the residence of the Dukes of Courland, the palace has seen grandeur, war, and rebirth. Today it houses the Latvian University of Life Sciences and Technologies, but its majestic exterior and peaceful riverside setting still make it a great spot for photos and a look back at Latvia’s aristocratic heritage.
5
Jūrmala – Latvia’s beloved seaside town, known for its beautiful wooden architecture and relaxed coastal vibe. Stroll through its charming streets, admire the elegant villas, and enjoy the fresh sea air along the Baltic shoreline.
6
Free Time on the Beach – enjoy a relaxing break by the Baltic Sea. Don’t worry if you’re visiting in winter – locals love peaceful seaside walks and the fresh sea air all year round. In summer, you can bring a towel and take a refreshing dip in the water if you wish!
What's not included
Lunch break is possible, at your own expense.
Available languages
Written guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Pick up in front of St. Peters church main entrance.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
