Small Group - Hill of Crosses, Jelgava and Jurmala / 2 Countries
Description
Enjoy a diverse and memorable small-group day trip from Riga that blends culture, history, spirituality, and nature. Travel to the iconic Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, one of Europe’s most unique pilgrimage sites, before continuing to Jelgava, home to the largest Baroque palace in the Baltics. Capture great photos and hear engaging stories about the city’s fascinating and turbulent past. Your journey continues to Jurmala, Latvia’s beloved seaside resort town, known for its charming wooden architecture, vibrant promenade, and wide stretches of white-sand beach along the Baltic coast. Enjoy a relaxed stroll, breathe in fresh sea air, and sample local treats before returning to Riga. This small-group tour offers a well-balanced mix of architecture, history, religion, and nature—an excellent alternative to standard Hill of Crosses tours, and a perfect way to experience the diverse highlights of both Latvia and Lithuania in one enriching day. Tour operates with at least 3 guests.
Tour Options
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
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
- Tour operates with at least 3 guests.
Reviews(5)
Thanks to guide Viesturs and the rest of our small group for a memorable pleasant day! I'm glad Latvian Gem reached out and offered this tour as another one I had booked originally was canceled. It was nice to see a glimpse of small towns and country side of Latvia and Lithuania, in addition to my stay in Riga. The atmosphere was quiet and relaxing in early April with enough time and space to explore the stops.
We liked the trip so much. Viesturs, our guide, contributed to this. His open and very informative nature has suited us perfectly. We learned a lot about the Baltics and visited beautiful places. Clear recommendation!
Great day out, excellent guide, very informative and ensured we got the best out of the day. Two teenage boys really enjoyed it
Absolutely brilliant day.Are guide was Viesturs he was brilliant so knowledgeable and friendly,We stopped at about 5 different places all worth the visit,and the restaurant which Viesturs booked was really good, beautiful food and reasonable in price.If u are thinking of doing this day trip it is well worth it.
I was on a solo trip to end a business trip in Sept 2025. When I started browsing things to do I got in touch with Latvian Gem and Krista was a huge help in planning a day trip for me. I wanted to see the Hill of Crosses at sunrise, but I also had all day to do other things. I took her suggestions for Jelgava and the beach town of Jūrmala and had a great day with tour guide Viesturs. He was timely, friendly and knowledgeable! I had a wonderful day on this tour! Highly recommend.
