Go on a pilgrimage from Riga – visit Siluva and Hill of Crosses!

This guided tour from Riga offers an enriching journey into two significant religious sites—the Shrine of Our Lady of Siluva in Lithuania and the Hill of Crosses. It’s designed for travelers seeking more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with potent symbols of faith and history, all comfortably arranged with private transport and expert commentary.

What immediately stands out about this experience is the personalized attention and the ease of access it offers—no need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar routes yourself. Plus, the inclusion of local guides who bring stories and insights to life elevates the entire trip. One possible consideration? The tour does involve some driving, so it’s best suited to those comfortable with a full-day adventure.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, spiritual seekers, or anyone curious about Lithuanian culture and religious traditions. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free experience that combines learning, reflection, and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport ensures a smooth journey from Riga to Lithuania’s sacred sites
• Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary that enriches the visit
• Free time at each stop allows for personal reflection, photos, or buying a cross
• The tour is well-paced, balancing guided tours with personal exploration
• Affordable for the value of visiting two highly significant religious sites in one day
• Suitable for most travelers, with easy access and flexible options like group discounts

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point: Riga’s Convenience

The tour begins early, with pick-up offered from central Riga, making it simple to start your day without logistical worries. The trip lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, which is a solid full-day experience but not overly rushed.

Drive Through Estonia and Lithuania

As you settle into the air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, your guide—such as the highly praised Janis Gasi—starts weaving in stories about the places you pass. The scenic drive offers glimpses into the Baltic landscape, giving a nice buffer between the sightseeing stops.

Stop 1: Shrine of Our Lady of Siluva

Your first highlight is the Siluva Shrine, famous for the first apparition of the Virgin Mary in Europe back in 1608—a full 250 years before Lourdes and Fatima. This is a true pilgrimage site, steeped in history and spiritual significance.

You’ll have about an hour here to explore the church and the First Chapel at the Rock, which is built on the actual stone where the Virgin Mary appeared. The atmosphere is serene, and the site’s historic importance makes it more than just an ordinary church visit.

One reviewer mentions the “free time to visit,” emphasizing how important it is to soak in the calm and reflect in your own way. The site isn’t overly commercialized, maintaining a sense of reverence and authenticity, which travelers seem to appreciate.

Stop 2: Hill of Crosses (Kryziu Kalnas)

Next, you’ll head to Lithuania’s most iconic pilgrimage destination—the Hill of Crosses. This site is a striking display of faith and resilience, with thousands of crosses of all sizes scattered across a hillside.

A guided tour of approximately 40 minutes introduces you to the history and symbolism behind this powerful sight. Afterwards, you have free time—about 1 hour and 40 minutes—to wander, take photos, and maybe even add your own cross if you wish. Local vendors sell unique crosses and souvenirs, so grabbing a keepsake is easy and adds a personal touch to your visit.

Reviewers like Pamela highlight how knowledgeable guides such as Krista made the experience memorable, sharing stories that deepen the understanding of the site’s significance. The chance to plant a cross or purchase one from locals makes the visit interactive and meaningful.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transport, private vehicle, and WiFi onboard—valuable comforts for a day-long trip. However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something during a break.

Travelers should also note that this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a flexible pace and personalized attention. The tour is suitable for most, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Multiple travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and humor. Reviewer Maria Tarre notes that Janis Gasi made the trip “absolutely amazing,” with lots of laughter and cultural insights. Such feedback suggests that the guides are not only informative but also engaging, making the long commute feel enjoyable.

The views at these sites are often described as stunning, especially at the Hill of Crosses, where the landscape becomes a symbol of hope and resilience. The mix of guided commentary and free exploration offers a balanced experience—guided enough to learn, free enough to reflect or photograph.

Evaluating the Value

At $185.22 per person, the tour offers significant value considering it covers transportation, guiding, entrance to sites, and a full day of culture. The convenience of private transport and expert commentary makes it a practical choice for those who want to explore Lithuanian religious history without the hassle of DIY planning.

While it does not include lunch, the overall experience’s depth and authenticity compensate well for this. The ability to visit sites that are otherwise tricky to reach independently—especially without your own car—is a major plus.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, religious pilgrims, or anyone interested in learning about the Baltic region’s spiritual heritage. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours with personal interaction and those who prefer a relaxed, well-paced day with opportunities for reflection.

Travelers with an interest in Lithuanian culture, or those wanting to see meaningful landmarks beyond the usual tourist spots, will find this trip rewarding. It’s also great for families or small groups seeking an intimate, educational outing.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Tour

This private day trip from Riga offers a thoughtful blend of history, faith, and scenic beauty, all wrapped in the comfort of private transport and expert guidance. It’s a chance to connect with Lithuanian religious traditions in a respectful, immersive setting.

The stunning views, rich stories, and the chance to add a personal cross make it memorable. The tour’s flexibility and knowledgeable guides ensure that it feels tailored to your interests, making it a worthwhile investment for those eager for a meaningful cultural experience.

If you love learning about local traditions, enjoy serene landscapes, or simply want a hassle-free way to visit two of Lithuania’s most significant religious sites, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation from central Riga, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each site and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during free moments.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. The pace is flexible, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Can I buy souvenirs or crosses at the sites?
Yes, especially at the Hill of Crosses, where vendors sell crosses and religious items.

Are the sites accessible?
While the tour emphasizes comfort with private transport, access to specific sites may vary; however, no significant barriers are noted.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of guided storytelling, the significance of the sites, and the chance for personal reflection or souvenir buying make this a unique spiritual journey.

How do reviews rate this experience?
It’s rated a perfect 5.0 based on four reviews, with travelers praising the guides’ knowledge and the stunning views.