Hill of Crosses: Lithuania’s most incredible site in 2025

Introduction

In June 2022, we set off on a 2-week road trip across the Baltic States—starting in Vilnius, Lithuania, and working our way up to Tallinn, Estonia, with plenty of memorable stops along the way.

On our 6th day, we left the Curonian Spit and headed toward Riga, Latvia. Since we had the flexibility of a car and time on our hands, we spent the morning enjoying one last walk along the beach before beginning the drive north.

On the way, we made a stop at one of the most surreal and meaningful places we’ve ever visited—the Hill of Crosses. This deeply spiritual pilgrimage site in northern Lithuania, covered in over 100,000 crosses, left us speechless. It wasn’t planned, but it became one of the most unforgettable moments of our trip.

If you’re planning a Baltic road trip from Lithuania to Latvia, or simply visiting Latvia, we highly recommend making time for this powerful detour. Let us show you why the Hill of Crosses deserves a place on your itinerary.

Read: The Perfect 2-Week Baltic States Itinerary

What Is the Hill of Crosses?

The Hill of Crosses (Kryžių Kalnas in Lithuanian) is one of the most unique and spiritually significant landmarks in the Baltic States. Located just outside the city of Šiauliai in northern Lithuania, it’s a small hill blanketed with over 100,000 crosses, crucifixes, statues, rosaries, and religious icons—each placed there by pilgrims, visitors, and locals over the years.

No one knows exactly when the first cross was placed, but the tradition is believed to have started after the 1831 uprising against the Russian Empire, when relatives of fallen rebels began placing crosses in their memory. During the Soviet occupation, the Hill of Crosses became a quiet act of resistance and faith. The site was bulldozed multiple times by Soviet authorities, yet Lithuanians continued to return—often under the cover of night—to plant new crosses.

Today, the Hill of Crosses stands not just as a religious site, but as a symbol of resilience, freedom, and hope. It’s a place of quiet reflection, with narrow pathways winding through thousands of symbols of belief, left by people from all over the world.

Tip: Check this highly rated tour to visit the Hill of Crosses from Riga.

Why Visit the Hill of Crosses in 2025?

The Hill of Crosses isn’t just a stop on the map—it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s impossible not to feel the emotional weight of the site. With every step, you’re surrounded by crosses of all sizes, hand-written notes, photos of loved ones, and symbols of faith, hope, and remembrance.

For many, it’s a place of quiet reflection. For others, it’s a statement of resistance and freedom. During the Soviet era, Lithuanians risked arrest to plant new crosses here, keeping the spirit of the nation alive even when their voices were silenced. That energy still lingers today.

And beyond its spiritual pull, the site itself is simply unlike anywhere else. You don’t need hours to explore it—but you may find yourself wanting to stay longer. It’s peaceful, a little eerie, and profoundly moving. If you’re road-tripping through Lithuania, especially between Vilnius and Riga, this unusual detour is more than worth it.

What to Expect When You Arrive

When you first pull into the small parking lot near the Hill of Crosses, it might not seem like much. But as you walk the short path toward the hill, the full scale of it slowly comes into view—and it’s breathtaking. What looks like a tangle of wood and metal from afar quickly transforms into a maze of personal stories, stacked together in a way that feels sacred and deeply human.

The site is completely open-air and free to visit. There are no gates, no official starting point—just winding paths that weave through the hill. Crosses of all sizes cover every inch of the ground and stretch upward toward the sky. Some are beautifully carved and ornate, others are simple, hand-made, or even improvised with sticks and string.

You’ll hear nothing but the wind, maybe the creak of wood, and the occasional soft footsteps of others walking nearby. It’s peaceful and humbling. Take your time. Walk slowly, read the messages, soak in the silence.

There’s a small chapel at the back, often used for mass or private prayer, and a larger path on the side for a broader view of the hill. You can also circle around the perimeter if you want to see it from different angles.

No matter how much you’ve seen in photos, being there in person is something else entirely.

Here are all your accommodation options in Riga

Tips for Visiting the Hill of Crosses

Getting There

The Hill of Crosses is located about 12 km north of the city of Šiauliai, in northern Lithuania. If you’re doing a road trip through the Baltics, the most convenient way to reach the site is by car, especially if you’re traveling between Vilnius and Riga. That’s exactly what we did—after leaving the Curonian Spit, we made the stop on our way to Latvia. There’s a free parking lot near the entrance, and from there it’s just a short walk to the hill itself.

If you’re not driving, you can still reach the site using public transport. First, take a train or bus to Šiauliai, which is well-connected to other Lithuanian cities. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare to the Hill of Crosses. While it’s not difficult, keep in mind that the site isn’t directly connected by public buses, so you’ll need to plan that final leg in advance.

Another easy option—especially if you’re based in Latvia—is to join a guided day tour from Riga. Several companies offer organized day trips that include round-trip transport, a guide, and sometimes other stops along the way. This is a great choice if you’re short on time or prefer not to drive across the border yourself.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

Best Time to Visit

While the Hill of Crosses is open all day, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can offer the most serene experience, especially if you’d like to avoid crowds or capture the best light for photography. Misty or overcast days make the hill even more atmospheric, casting long shadows between the crosses and enhancing its mystical quality.

In the summer, expect more visitors—but the site rarely feels overly crowded. In the off-season, especially in autumn or winter, you may even find yourself walking the paths alone, which adds to the sense of reflection.

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What to Bring and How to Prepare

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths are gravelly and uneven in places. If you’re visiting outside the warmer months, dress in layers—wind and rain are common, and there’s no shelter once you’re at the site.

There’s a small café near the parking lot, but if you’re visiting early or late, consider bringing your own snacks or water. While you won’t need much, it’s always helpful to be prepared.

If you’d like to leave your own cross, you can bring one from home or buy one on-site. There’s no size or style requirement—what matters is the intention. Many people simply write their names or a short message and gently place their cross wherever there’s space.

Most importantly, respect the space. This is a sacred site for many people, and though it’s open to everyone, it deserves quiet, thoughtful presence. You’ll likely leave feeling moved, whether or not you came for religious reasons.

Check our Google Map of the Baltic States

Can You Leave a Cross at the Hill of Crosses?

Yes, absolutely—and in fact, that’s the very heart of what the Hill of Crosses is all about. Leaving a cross is a tradition that dates back nearly two centuries and continues to this day. It’s not only allowed; it’s welcomed.

Anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, is free to leave a cross, a rosary, a small sculpture, or even a handwritten note. There’s no official process or permission needed. People leave crosses for many reasons: in memory of loved ones, as a symbol of hope, to mark a spiritual journey, or simply as a personal gesture.

If you’d like to leave a cross during your visit, you have a few options. Some travelers bring one from home—simple or handmade ones are especially meaningful. Others pick one up at the small souvenir shop near the parking lot, where a wide range of crosses are available for just a few euros.

Once you enter the site, you can place your cross wherever you find space—there are no designated areas. Some tuck theirs into wooden piles, others hang them on larger crosses, or leave them gently on the ground along the pathways. Every contribution becomes part of the landscape.

It’s a deeply moving act, and one that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you leave something small or simply walk through the site in silence, your presence becomes part of the Hill’s living story.

Tip: Check this highly rated tour to visit the Hill of Crosses from Riga.

Nearby Attractions

While the Hill of Crosses is undoubtedly the main draw in this part of Lithuania, there are a few nearby places that can round out your visit, especially if you have some extra time or are stopping for lunch on a road trip.

The closest city is Šiauliai, located just about 15–20 minutes away by car. It’s not a tourist hotspot, but it’s a practical stop for food, fuel, and supplies. There’s a small town center with shops, restaurants, and a few low-key sights. If you want to learn more about Lithuanian culture and regional history, the Šiauliai Aušros Museum offers a mix of exhibitions on local heritage, photography, and folk traditions.

For something a bit quirky, Šiauliai is also home to the Cat Museum—a small, eccentric museum dedicated entirely to cats in art, culture, and collectibles. It’s a niche spot, but worth a peek if you’re curious or traveling with kids.

If you’re heading north toward Latvia, this part of the country is mainly rural, with small villages and open countryside. It’s a beautiful drive if you’re taking it slow.

You won’t need to plan an entire day around the Hill of Crosses, but it pairs perfectly with a slow travel day, a scenic drive, or a reflective break between bigger city stops like Vilnius and Riga.

Where to Stay After Visiting the Hill of Crosses

While you can stop at the Hill of Crosses for just an hour or two, many travelers continue their journey north to Riga, which is the closest major city and a fantastic place to spend the night.

The drive from the Hill of Crosses to Riga takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it an easy and scenic leg of your Baltic road trip. Riga not only offers a wide range of accommodation options but also serves as a cultural highlight of Latvia with a beautiful old town, great food, and plenty to explore.

Here are a few great places to stay in Riga:

• (€) Emily: A simple yet stylish budget-friendly option with cozy rooms and a great central location. Perfect if you’re looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
• (€€) Konventa Sēta Hotel – Keystone Collection: Set in a restored historic building right in the heart of the Old Town, this charming mid-range hotel blends modern comfort with old-world character. You’ll be steps away from all the main sights.
• (€€€) Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga: If you’re after luxury, this 5-star hotel offers elegance, spacious rooms, a wellness center, and stunning views of the Opera House. A perfect treat-yourself stay for a memorable trip.

Here are all your accommodation options in Riga

Final Thoughts

The Hill of Crosses is one of those places that’s hard to put into words until you’ve stood among the thousands of crosses yourself. It’s not grand in the traditional sense—there are no golden domes or ornate buildings—but its power lies in its quiet intensity. Every step feels personal. Every cross tells a story. And somehow, you feel like part of it, even if just for a short while.

For us, this unplanned stop turned out to be one of the most memorable moments of our Baltic road trip. Whether you’re religious, spiritual, or simply curious, visiting the Hill of Crosses is a reminder of how places of meaning don’t have to be loud to speak volumes.

If you’re planning a trip between Vilnius and Riga, or exploring Lithuania more deeply, we can’t recommend this detour enough. It’s a small hill in the countryside—but one that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve driven away.

Read: The Perfect 2-Week Baltic States Itinerary