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Šiauliai Region

Šiaulių apskritis

Plan your trip to Šiauliai Region

Šiauliai Region in northern Lithuania is best known for the haunting Hill of Crosses, one of the country's most iconic pilgrimage sites, alongside the plains, forests, and small towns of Samogitia. Centered on the industrial city of Šiauliai, the region offers a mix of history, nature at Kurtuvėnai Regional Park, and quiet rural landscapes. It's an easy add-on to a trip through Lithuania or across the Baltics.

Getting there & around

The nearest major airports are Vilnius and Kaunas (both roughly 2.5-3 hours by road), while Riga in Latvia is a similar distance to the north. Šiauliai has direct train and bus connections to Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda, with the train from Vilnius taking around 2.5 hours. A car is the most practical way to reach the Hill of Crosses (about 12 km north of Šiauliai) and to explore rural areas like Kelmė and Kurtuvėnai.

How long to stay

One to two days is usually enough to see the Hill of Crosses, central Šiauliai, and Kurtuvėnai Regional Park. Add an extra day if you want to explore smaller towns or hike at a relaxed pace.

When to go

Late spring through early autumn (May-September) offers the mildest weather for visiting the Hill of Crosses and walking northern Lithuania's plains and forests. Winters are cold and grey, though the crosses take on a stark beauty under snow.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Šiauliai city and Hill of Crosses — Explore central Šiauliai, including its cathedral, pedestrian boulevard, and a few museums, then head 12 km north to the Hill of Crosses in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better light.
  2. Kurtuvėnai Regional Park — Spend the day hiking, cycling, or horseback riding among the forests, lakes, and traditional manor grounds of Kurtuvėnai Regional Park, just southwest of Šiauliai.
  3. Kelmė and Radviliškis — Visit the small town of Kelmė with its manor and old wooden architecture, then stop in Radviliškis, a historic railway junction, before continuing onward.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Hill of Crosses worth visiting?

Yes. The Hill of Crosses is a uniquely atmospheric site with hundreds of thousands of crosses and a strong history as a symbol of Lithuanian faith and resistance, making it one of the country's most memorable landmarks.

How do you get to the Hill of Crosses from Šiauliai?

It lies about 12 km north of Šiauliai off the Šiauliai-Riga road. It's easiest by car or taxi; some buses toward Joniškis stop near Domantai, from where it's roughly a 2 km walk.

How many days do you need in Šiauliai Region?

One to two days is enough for most travellers to cover the Hill of Crosses, Šiauliai city, and Kurtuvėnai Regional Park. A third day allows time for smaller towns like Kelmė and Radviliškis.

Is there an entrance fee for the Hill of Crosses?

No, the Hill of Crosses is free to visit and open at all times, though there is a small paid car park and nearby facilities.

What is Šiauliai known for?

Šiauliai is Lithuania's fourth-largest city, known as a northern crossroads and former Soviet-era industrial center, and serves as the main base for visiting the nearby Hill of Crosses.

History

Šiauliai Region traces its roots to medieval times, with the city of Šiauliai first mentioned in 1236 in connection with the Battle of Saulė, where the Samogitians and their allies defeated the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Over the centuries the area developed as an important crossroads and trade hub, growing especially after railways connected it in the 19th century. The region suffered heavy destruction during both World Wars, with Šiauliai largely rebuilt afterward. During the Soviet era it became a significant industrial center, and today it remains one of Lithuania's key northern regions.

Culture

The region is famous for the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai, a striking pilgrimage site where hundreds of thousands of crosses have been placed as a symbol of Lithuanian faith and resilience. Its character blends industrious, practical northern spirit with strong Catholic traditions and folk crafts, and the area sits on the edge of the historic Samogitian lands, lending it a distinctive regional identity. Local festivals, choral singing, and craft markets keep older customs alive.

Language

People speak standard Lithuanian, though you may hear traces of the Samogitian (Žemaitian) dialect in surrounding rural areas, which sounds noticeably different from the standard tongue. A friendly "Labas" (hello) and "Ačiū" (thank you) will always be warmly received.

Best time to visit

Spring to autumn to visit the Hill of Crosses and northern Lithuania's plains in mild weather.

Places to visit

Where to eat