Recently Viewed
Hill of Crosses Tour: A Symbol of Lithuanian Liberty and Independence from Riga
5.0
67 Ratings
Jurgaiciai
Discover the Hill of Crosses, a symbol of Lithuanian liberty and independence. Join our guided tour from Riga and immerse yourself in the remarkable ambiance of this magical place.
Duration:
7 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Kryziu Kalnas - The exact origins of Lithuania’s Kryžių Kalnas, or the Hill of Crosses, remain a mystery. Just outside the northern city of Šiauliai, thousands of metal and wooden crosses—placed here for nearly two centuries—have found a home on the growing mound of religious fervor. Dangling rosaries chime in the blowing wind and provide a rolling soundtrack for icons of saints and photographs of revered local patriots. Despite many attempts to destroy it, this unusual pilgrimage site endures as a powerful testament to devotion.
What's Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- On-board WiFi
- Bottled water
- English speaking driver/guide
- Transport by air-conditioned car or minivan
What's Not Included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Additional Information
The Cross Hill, situated near the city of Siauliai in Lithuania.
This location offers an exceptional aura, emphasizing the significance of gratitude and the fulfilment of wishes, dreams, and aspirations, much like the atmosphere embodied by Jerusalem’s Western Wall.
Despite numerous efforts to demolish the Cross Hill, it has endured, symbolizing Lithuania’s freedom and independence. Over time, it has become a significant site for pilgrims across the globe.
In 1993, Pope John Paul II prayed at this Hill and presented Lithuania with a crucifix which was installed on the Hill - a gesture he later elaborated on in various addresses.
Thus, the Hill of Crosses serves as a beacon of light and hope for its visitors!
With this journey, you are assured of a knowledgeable driver/guide who will elucidate on all features of this site, making for an enjoyable day!
In addition, we will offer a selection of superior lunch venues serving traditional Lithuanian or contemporary cuisine while on this excursion.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Coffee stops and detours can be arranged with driver
Location
Kryziu Kalnas
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(67 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Michele_w
May 25, 2024
Booked last minute, but... - Booked last minute, but saw enough of Riga. Was very Informative. Had a friendly guide. Hill of Crosses was very unique. .............
Review provided by Viator
Victoria_b
May 24, 2024
Amazing Experience - Our guide was simply sensational! We loved every part of our day with Elvis. The Hill of Crosses was like nothing we had ever seen. Photograhs just can't do it justice. A wonderful day, a remarkable experience with great company, good food and the best guide in Latvia. Highlight of our trip.
Review provided by Viator
Kevin_e
May 18, 2024
Wonderful day - Elrin was very knowledgeable
Van was great
Great stories
Excellent customer service
Hill of crosses was amazing
Highly recommended
Review provided by Viator
Elizabeth_s
May 15, 2024
The guide was amazing,... - The guide was amazing, gave us a lot of insight into Latvian culture and history. Would recommend this to everyone
Review provided by Viator
Lilibeth_s
May 1, 2024
A day filled of emotion and lovely memories on the Hills of Crosses ✝️ - Our guide was Erlens. He came and pick us up from our hotel on time. He drives professionally and well informed person. He was very polite and very helpful. Altogether, our trip was almost perfect. He gave us more time to explore the Hills of Crosses ✝️.
Review provided by Viator
Annebritt_k
Apr 29, 2024
Amazing tour to Hill of crosses - Interesting tour to Hill of crosess with Erlens. Good information during the hole tour, and lovely stops on the Way. Can absolutely recommend the tour.
Review provided by Viator
Jane_h
Apr 9, 2024
Fabulous trip and guide - A fabulous day! Our guide, Erlens, was fantastic - he told us loads about each place and was happy to answer any questions we had along the way. He was friendly, informative and made us very comfortable. The Hill of Crosses was a special place, so peaceful. Jelgava was interesting and what a wonderful tea house we went to. Stopping at the Latvian / Lithuanian border was great for photos and we loved spotting it the storks as we travelled. Great value for money and a fabulous experience!
Review provided by Viator
Map1216
Apr 8, 2024
Very worthwhile. - Such a beautiful day! The Hill of Crosses is a very worthwhile side trip from Riga. Not just for a gathering perspective but also historical and cultural experience.
Erlens was a well educated and gracious guide. He shared lots of information and answered many questions on the drive to Lithuania, and provided great explanations of the Hill once we arrived. He allowed us ample time to explore, photo and pray while we were there. The side trips along the return were welcome and fun!
His minivan was very clean and the small group (max 8 ppl) made it easy to chat amongst ourselves and with Erlens.
I would definitely recommend this trip to visitors to Riga and Latvia who seek more than just a city break.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gcc25
Mar 29, 2024
This tour was fantastic! - I thought I had already written a review, but I don’t see it. I had such an awesome time, I had to leave a review!
Erlens was phenomenal from the moment I met him until our parting at the end of the tour. He was extremely knowledgeable about the area. He was a very careful driver. He even opened the car door for me (that was a very pleasant surprise! Such a gentleman!) He was flexible and adjusted the schedule when I told him I hadn’t spent much time in Riga and I was leaving the next day. He gave me tips about the Riga and even pointed out some of the sites in Riga on our way back from the tour.
The Hill of the Crosses was an amazing experience. Erlens told me the history of that area. Since I was a solo traveler, he offered to help me take some pictures so they wouldn’t all be selfies.
I cannot say enough good things about this tour and about Erlens. I read all the reviews about this trip. That’s why I chose this particular tour - the reviews were glowing! This tour lived up to the excellent reviews and I’m glad I took this tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gcc250
Mar 14, 2024
Fantastic - Erlens (sp?) was phenomenal! He was prompt, thoughtful, thorough and kind. He was a wealth of knowledge about the area and the history. He even opened the van door for me when getting into the van. He was very flexible and allowed me to return to Riga a little early since I hadn’t spent much time there. He did not rush me. His ultimate priority was for me to have a good time. I definitely did! He was a very safe driver. As a solo female traveler, I felt totally at ease with him. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone. I am SO glad that I did this tour and I am sure that you will enjoy it too.
Review provided by Viator
More activities from this operator
