The Hill of Crosses sits 133 kilometers south of Riga by road, making it one of the most accessible cross-border pilgrimage sites in the Baltics. The journey crosses from Latvia into Lithuania and passes through Šiauliai, the nearest city to the site. This guide covers the exact distance, route choices, and what the journey looks like in practice.
Quick answer
The riga to hill of crosses distance is 133 kilometers by road via the A12 and A9 highways. Driving takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes under normal conditions. The route crosses the Latvian-Lithuanian border at Meitene-Žagarė, where no passport check is required within the Schengen zone, though you will pass a formal border marker. Public buses connect Riga to Šiauliai, from which local transport or a taxi covers the final 12 kilometers to the site.
The Hill of Crosses lies exactly 12 kilometers north of Šiauliai, Lithuania's fourth-largest city, and the journey from Riga requires crossing one international border and two highway systems. The most direct route follows Latvia's A12 southbound to the border town of Meitene, then continues on Lithuania's A9 through Joniškis and into Šiauliai. From the Šiauliai city center, a secondary road leads north to the village of Jurgaičiai, where the pilgrimage site stands on a low rise visible from the approach. The riga to hill of crosses distance by car is 133 kilometers, split roughly evenly between Latvian and Lithuanian territory. The A12 is a well-maintained two-lane highway with overtaking sections, while the A9 widens to dual carriageway south of Joniškis. The border crossing at Meitene-Žagarė is unmarked except for a small monument and a change in road signage language; vehicles pass without stopping, though speed limits shift from kilometers per hour in both countries to a lower urban threshold near the crossing itself. The drive typically takes one hour and 45 minutes, though summer traffic from Riga can add 15 to 20 minutes during weekend mornings. Public transport follows a similar route but requires a transfer. Multiple daily buses operated by Ecolines and Lux Express connect Riga's central bus station to Šiauliai, with journey times ranging from two to two and a half hours depending on the number of stops. From Šiauliai's bus terminal on Tilžės Street, local bus 103 runs north to the Hill of Crosses stop on weekdays and Saturdays, though service is infrequent and the timetable is not published online. Taxis from Šiauliai to the site cost approximately 15 to 18 euros and cover the final leg in under 20 minutes. The site itself has a gravel parking area with space for around 40 vehicles, free of charge, and an unpaved walking path that rises 50 meters from the road to the first concentration of crosses. The road from Riga to the pilgrimage site passes through flat agricultural land with few services between towns. Fuel stations are available in Bauska on the Latvian side and in Joniškis on the Lithuanian side, but the 40-kilometer stretch between the border and Joniškis has no commercial facilities. Mobile data coverage remains stable throughout the journey under Latvian and Lithuanian carriers, and the route is suitable for standard vehicles year-round, though winter conditions can require snow tires between November and March under Lithuanian law.
“The border crossing at Meitene-Žagarė is unmarked except for a small monument and a change in road signage language.”
The Hill of Crosses is located near the city of Šiauliai in northern Lithuania, approximately 130 kilometers south of Riga. Traveling by car is the most direct method, while public transit requires a combination of international bus travel and local connections.
A12 road crossing the Latvia-Lithuania border via E77
International coach from Riga International Coach Terminal to Šiauliai Bus Station
Direct transfer from Riga city center to Jurgaičiai
If arriving by car, use the designated parking area at the address Jurgaičiai, 81439 Šiauliai District Municipality, Lithuania. From the parking lot, the main site is accessible via a short, well-marked walking path.
The Hill of Crosses is accessible to visitors at all hours, regardless of the travel distance from Riga. The site remains open every day of the week.
The city of Šiauliai sits approximately 12 kilometers from the Hill of Crosses, offering historical and cultural sites that round out a visit. These locations provide context to the region and allow for a more comprehensive exploration of northern Lithuania.
15 min drive
This prominent 17th-century Renaissance building features distinct architectural details and serves as the primary religious landmark in the city center.
15 min drive
Located in the heart of Šiauliai, this institution showcases the development of photography and features a roof terrace overlooking the pedestrian boulevard.
20 min drive
This restored architectural monument houses art collections and historical exhibitions, reflecting the industrial heritage of the city.
15 min drive
Situated near the central park, this large metal sculpture is a frequent stop for visitors exploring the walking paths of Šiauliai.
Everything you need to know about riga to hill of crosses distance
The riga to hill of crosses distance is approximately 130 kilometers by road. This journey typically takes about two hours depending on your chosen mode of transport. Traveling through the Baltic landscape provides a scenic transition between Latvia and the Šiauliai District. Planning your riga to hill of crosses distance logistics ensures you arrive prepared for the experience.
A road trip covering the riga to hill of crosses distance generally requires about two hours of driving. You can arrange private transfers or join group excursions that optimize travel efficiency. Always account for potential border crossing traffic when calculating your total transit time.
There is no cost to enter the site as the entrance fee is 0 EUR. This historic landmark remains open to the public without ticket requirements. You are free to explore the thousands of wooden crucifixes and rosaries at your own pace.
The Hill of Crosses maintains a consistent schedule and is open monday through sunday from 00:00–23:59. This accessibility allows visitors to experience the atmosphere at various times of the day. Please respect the site as a place of religious and national significance during your visit.
The best arrival window is 06:00–10:00 to avoid peak tourist crowds. Arriving early also provides the softest morning light for photography among the thousands of crosses. This timing helps maintain a peaceful experience at this UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site.
Many operators offer guided excursions to assist with the riga to hill of crosses distance. These services typically include round-trip transport from Riga and allow you to explore nearby Šiauliai landmarks. Booking a tour simplifies navigation and provides context about the history of this poignant place.
The site is open to visitors of all ages and is generally manageable for families with children. Pathways around the hill vary in terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended for walking. It is a quiet, contemplative environment where visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor.