Things to do in Siauliai County

Visit one of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Lithuania on this day trip from Riga in Latvia to the Hill of Crosses. Make several stops along the way including a rest stop and a stop to snap a picture at the boarder between Latvia and Lithuania Start with pickup from the centrally-located Town Hall Square in Riga. Relax in a comfortable van on the scenic transfer to the Hill of crosses. Stop at a rest stop where you can use the restroom and purchase snacks along the way. Arrive at the Hill of Crosses and learn about this pilgrimage site from your guide before having free time to soak up the importance of this area on your own. Experience the profound atmosphere as you wander among thousands of crosses, each symbolizing faith, hope, and resilience. Marvel at the intricate designs and personal messages that adorn the wooden, metal, and stone crosses. Uncover the unique blend of spirituality and history at this powerful pilgrimage site, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Lithuanian people. After Hill of Crosses the group is heading back to Riga, Latvia with stopping at International border of Latvia-Lithuania and going trough Jelgava - Capture a picture to share with friends on the boarder and admire views of the city of Jelgava, and take a brief tour at St. Simeon and St. Ann Orthodox Cathedral, a striking example of Byzantine architecture. This historic cathedral, known for its stunning blue and white façade, was built in the early 20th century and serves as an important place of worship for the Orthodox community in the region. The interior features beautiful iconography and intricate wooden craftsmanship, providing insight into the spiritual heritage of the area. After your visit to both the Hill of Crosses and the cathedral, the trip back to Riga allows for further enjoyment of the scenic views. This half-day excursion is a memorable way to connect with the rich heritage of the Baltics and understand the profound impact of faith and national identity in the region.

Join a day tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses, located 12 km north of Siauliai. This sacred site is a treasure of Lithuanian cross-making art, rich in peace and spirituality. After crossing the Latvia-Lithuania border, you'll have a chance for a photo stop. At the Hill of Crosses, your guide will share its fascinating history. On the return journey, consider a stop in Jelgava to compare life in a small town with the capital. You'll also enjoy recommendations for excellent local cuisine along the way.

Discover the highlights between Riga to Vilnius with this ticket. Travel from the heart of Riga through south Latvia and north Lithuania on your way to Vilnius. Make some stops at well-known landmarks on the route.  Be picked by your guide from the meeting point in Riga and sit back and relax as the Latvian countryside passes by on the way to the Bauska Castle complex. Snap pictures of this romantic castle that is situated on a narrow green peninsula and surrounded by two rivers. Continue to the Baroque Rundale Palace. View this classic 18th-century palace before heading to one of the most sacred and spiritual places in Lithuania, the Hill of Crosses. Admire this site of pilgrimage where thousands of crosses have been left over the past 200 years.  Finish your tour at Katedros aikštė (Cathedral square) in Vilnius. Use your complimentary guidebook to help you get around the city. 

Experience a full-day journey from Riga to the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, a destination renowned for its remarkable ambiance. Immerse yourself in a place where gratitude, wishes, dreams, and hopes intertwine, shaping the magic of this hill, reminiscent of the serene atmosphere of the Western Wall of Jerusalem. Upon crossing the border between Latvia and Lithuania, seize the opportunity for a photo session. At the Hill of Crosses, your guide will unravel the history behind this unique site, offering insights into its origins and significance. Next, we'll embark on a visit to the renowned Rundāles Palace, the epitome of Baroque architecture in Latvia. Here, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the palace on a guided tour. Revel in the splendor of this majestic palace without the hassle of queues, and take ample time to immerse yourself in its opulent interiors and sprawling gardens. Continuing our journey, we'll discover the charm of Bauska Castle, where you'll have the chance to ascend the recently renovated tower and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. During this tour, you will be provided with excellent places to have lunch with local cuisine.

Start your trip from Vilnius Cathedral Square. Sit back and enjoy a comfortable ride to your first sightseeing stop: the Hill of Crosses. Continue your trip in Latvia with a visit to Rundale Palace, one of the most stunning Baroque treasures in Latvia. Explore this brightly-colored building surrounded by an extensive and splendid garden. The Rundale Palace Museum and Garden attracts masses of tourists and is deservingly called a „Versailles of Latvia“. Enjoy a break at Bauska Castle, an impressive example of military architecture. End your trip at Latvian Riflemen Monument in Riga.

Take a day tour from Riga to the Hill of Crosses, the famous Jurgaiciai Hill, located 12 km north of Siauliai. This authentic monument of history and religious folk art is the best repository of Lithuanian cross-making art and inspires with its peace, spirituality, authenticity, and sacred nature. The legendary stories about the beginning of the Hill are interesting as well. After crossing the border between Latvia and Lithuania you will be offered to stop for a photo session. At the Hill of the Crosses, the guide will tell you the history of this unique place and how it came to be. On the way back, we recommend passing through the local town of Jelgava. This is a unique opportunity to compare the locals' lives in the capital and a small town. Additionally, during this tour, you will be provided with excellent places to have lunch with local cuisine.

This is a quick and easy way to visit 2 countries in 1 day and fit in three beautiful and unique visitor sites as you go! Start with a stop at the Bauska Medieval castle where you'll have time to go up in the recently renovated tower. Continue with little Versailles - Rundale palace and its gardens! This is your opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the palace with no queues. Free time to enjoy the palace, and gardens and also to have lunch here, if you wish. And last but not least - visit the unique Hill of Crosses in Lithuania! Now you can tick off another country in your list as there will be a border crossing! We'll organize comfy transportation, good and professional drivers, and printout sheets with information about all of these sites so you can enjoy everything at your own pace. Please know that you can bring a cross to the Hill of Crosses if you wish. There are also locals selling crosses on site. The tour runs if there are at least 3 people booked for the day.

Enjoy a complimentary hotel pick-up and transfer from your centrally located Vilnius hotel or accommodation to Riga through the Hill of Crosses in Siauliai and Rundale palace in Latvia, with a possible stop at Bauska castle in Latvia. The drive to the Hill of Crosses will be about 2.5 hours from Vilnius. The Hill of Crosses has about 100,000 crosses and is an historical architectural monument and a unique composition of folk art. It is said that first crosses were erected here by the next-of-kin of the rebels that fell in the 1831 rebellion. The Hill of crosses attracts people with its spirituality, authenticity, and sacred nature and was visited by Pope John Paul II. After exploring this site, you will head to Rundale Palace, which is an approximately 40-minute drive. Rundale Palace is one of the two major baroque palaces built for the Dukes of Courland in what is now Latvia. In 1735 Duke of Courland Ernst Johann von Biron bought land in Rundale with an old medieval castle in the territory of a planned summer residence. The old castle was demolished and construction after the design of Bartolomeo Rastrelli started in 1736. Your drive to Riga after your visit to the palace is approximately 1 hour.

Step into a captivating journey through the heart of the Baltics, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience. Our unique day tour is designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of this region, offering a blend of faith, opulence, and medieval tales that will leave you awestruck. Itinerary: 1. The Hill of Crosses - A Testament of Faith and Devotion Our adventure commences at the awe-inspiring Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, a place where the landscape itself tells stories of unwavering faith and profound devotion. As you stand amidst countless crosses of all sizes and designs, each representing a heartfelt prayer or wish, you'll be moved by the spiritual energy that envelops this sacred site. The history and significance of the Hill of Crosses will unfold before you, providing a deep understanding of the enduring faith that has drawn pilgrims here for centuries. During the tour, you'll have the flexibility to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, either before or after exploring the enchanting Rundale Palace. If you choose to skip lunch, don't worry; we'll still have plenty of time to include an additional visit to Bauska Castle on our return journey to Riga. 2. Rundale Palace - A Journey into Extravagance Next, we'll transport you to Rundale Palace, a Baroque masterpiece that embodies opulence and grandeur. Step into a bygone era as you explore the palace's ornate halls adorned with stucco work, gilded carvings, and intricate frescoes. You'll feel like royalty as you traverse the opulent chambers, marveling at the exquisite craftsmanship that surrounds you. The palace's immaculate gardens, resplendent with vibrant blooms, provide a serene escape, inviting you to take leisurely strolls and relish the regal atmosphere. 3. Bauska Castle - Where Medieval Tales Come to Life Our journey through time continues as we arrive at Bauska Castle, a medieval stronghold that resonates with the echoes of knights, duchesses, and historic intrigue. Explore the castle's towers, walk the same halls as nobility once did, and let your imagination wander amidst the ancient walls. The stories of medieval life and feudal lords will unfold, offering a vivid glimpse into the past. The lush park surrounding the castle, adorned with exotic plants and trees from around the world, provides a tranquil setting to reflect on the historical richness of this remarkable site. Conclusion: As our day tour draws to a close, you'll find yourself not only enriched with the history and culture of the Baltics but also with a sense of awe for the beauty that defines this region. Our journey ends with your return back, leaving you perfectly situated to explore more of the charming surroundings or simply bask in the memories of a day filled with faith, opulence, and medieval tales. Join us on this unique adventure, where the past comes alive, and the present is enriched with the treasures of the Baltics.

After meeting and greetings in the hotel, driving to the Lithuania about 130 km to visit Hill of Crosses. After crossing Latvia -Lithuania border, possibility for coffee break. More 30 km and destination reached. The Hill of Crosses is a potent symbol of faith, hope, and freedom of Lithuania. Desecrated but never destroyed, set on fire but never burned down. Located near town Siauliai it is a hill (castle mound) covered with thousands of crosses made from different materials and in different size. During the Soviet era, these crosses were removed by the authorities, but locals continuously replaced them. In 1993, Pope John Paul II had a service here. He later sent a crucifix to Lithuania which was placed on the hill, and today pilgrims begin and end their journeys at this location. For locals and visitors alike, this is a place of hope and enlightenment, reflecting Lithuania’s historical and cultural traditions. On the Hill of the Crosses, everyone can place their own cross for every occasion in life. The main thing is to believe! About 30-40 minutes for photos and walking around. Specially beautiful and emotional in the time of sunrise and sunset. Check my profile Day Out Latvia on Get Your Guide for other tours!