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15 Best Places to Visit in Latvia

The middle child of the Baltics is perhaps most famed for the hedonistic party joints of its gloriously Gothic and Art Deco capital, or the happening coastal strips of Jurmala just along the coast.

But delve a little deeper into Latvia’s backcountry and you’ll discover Teutonic castles, tsarist palazzos and wild woodlands peppered with bucolic towns.

Check out these best places to visit in Latvia :

Top of the menu for any first-time travelers making their way across the Baltic, Riga is certainly one of the great urban treasures of the region as a whole.

It straddles the channels of the Daugava River on the northern edges of the country, boasting a labyrinthine Old Town area which is considered one of the most handsome in Europe.

Here, the cobbled streets are overshadowed by the dagger-like spires of the mighty St Peter’s Church, while the famously reconstructed House of the Blackheads stands definitely elegant after the tumult of Soviet domination over the city.

Art Nouveau is the name of the game in the city’s outer districts, with masterworks lining the pavements of Alberta iela.

And then – of course – there’s Riga’s legendary nightlife; a medley of hedonistic basement bars and thumping clubs that host locals and stag dos and hen parties aplenty.

Stretching for nearly 30 kilometers along the curved coastline of the Riga Gulf, sun-kissed, breezy Jurmala is the place to go during the hotter months of the year.

With their unique microclimate and salty air, the various towns that form the so-called ‘Latvian Riviera’ here are known for their mineral mud pools and range of curious holistic health treatments.

Beach wise, there are worthy sands running right the way along the breadth of the region, with Majori and Bulduri hailing in as the favourites with their Blue Flag ratings and opportunities for water sporting, collections of shore-side cafes and beach volleyball competitions.

No wonder the likes of Brezhnev and Khrushchev came here to unwind!

3. Daugavpils

The birthplace of one Mark Rothko is now something of the antithesis to Riga in the north.

Nestled between the hills and lakes of the Daugava River valley, the town ticks over to a Russian tune (this is the heartland of Latvia’s Russian-speaking population), and boasts a glorious historical core that is all refined 19th-century architecture courtesy of St Petersburg.

The looming bulwarks of the great Daugavpils Fortress mark one of the militaristic hubs of the Russian Empire too, while the golden-hued onion domes and Orthodox cupolas of the Saints Boris and Gleb Cathedral mimic Kiev and St Basil’s atop the skyline of the town.

It’s easy to see why the Latvian locals have so many legends about Sigulda.

For one, the hills around town come topped with the keeps, bulwarks and crumbling crenulations of one Turaida Castle – Latvia’s answer to Bran of Romania.

Then there are the misty woodlands and groves of the Gauja Valley; a veritable gem of the nation’s backcountry that comes crisscrossed by meandering rivers and meandering hiking trails, dotted with caves (check out the massive caverns of the Gutmanis system) and undulating hills.

Meanwhile, Sigulda itself blooms with cherry trees and pretty regal architecture from before Latvian independence, and offers a chance for skiing and Nordic walking in the winter.

First came the Knights of the Livonian Order, who fortified the small islets that sit washed over by the tree-fringed channels at the start of the Lielupe River.

Then came the dukes of Courland and the imperial tsars of the Russian state, who raised an altogether new fortification here: the one now commanding the middle of the town with its curious whitewashed walls and red-tiled roofs.

But rich and militaristic history aside, Bauska also boasts a charming backwater character, with the river ways flowing through the heart of town lined by ad hoc allotments and farmlands, crossed by tenuous suspension bridges and one pretty market square bustling with local life. Nice.

6. Slitere National Park

Slitere National Park is considered the great natural jewel of the Kurzeme region.

Part cultural museum part hinterland, the area encompasses the beautiful Blue Hills and great stretches of undeveloped coastland, rolling sand dunes and sloping yellow sands washed over by the whitecaps of the Baltic Sea.

The park juts out into the ocean with the beaches of Cape Kolka, while deep virgin forests cover the interior in groves of fir, elm and rare Baltic ivy.

The Slitere National Park also comes dotted with oodles of historic fishing villages, many of which have remained truly off-the-beaten-track and rustic because of the presence of an off-bounds military base in the area during Soviet times.

A picture of traditional Latvian town planning, Cesis has retained all its medieval glory.

Its center is lauded as one of the best-preserved historic districts in the country, coming complete with wide cobblestone streets, pretty, painted timber facades done out in the classic Baltic style, stuccoed churches (check out the gorgeous St John’s Church and its tombs of the Livonian Order knights) and worn courtyards where once Middle Age markets would have thrived.

The piece de resistance of the town has to be Cesis Castle; a formidable medley of palisades and gatehouses that’s shrouded by forests close to the center.

Here, visitors can discover 800 years of history and tales of Swedish, Russian, Slavic and Polish invaders alike.

8. Rundale Palace

A onetime gift from the Russian empress Catherine the Great, the Rundale Palace is the most elegant remnant of imperial rule from Petersburg left in Latvia.

It can be found encircled by blooming rose gardens and English-style lawns close to the town of Bauska.

The designs of the façade and grounds are flamboyant and extravagant in the extreme, oozing with all the Italian-esque opulence and eccentricity you’d expect of a piece by the celebrated architect of the Russian court, Bartolomeo Rastrelli.

Today, thousands of people flock to tour the interior rooms and gardens at Rundale, weaving between the exhibitions of the Palace Museum and spotting visiting luminaries around the grounds.

9. Saulkrasti

Facing the trodden seaside strips of Jurmala across the waters of the Riga Gulf, Saulkrasti is Latvia’s lesser-known summertime retreat.

Quieter and more laid-back than its sun-splashed counterpart on the other side of the bay, it hosts mile upon mile of winding cycle tracks, beautiful ivory sands at the resort town of Pabazi (like Jurmala, Saulkrasti is actually a collection of several towns and villages along the coast) and gorgeous clifftop walking trails through seaside forests.

The 18-meter-high White Dune also rises here on the edge of the River Incupe, offering prime sunset viewing and top-notch picnic spots in the shade of swaying linden and fir trees.

Just a short jaunt out of the castle-topped town of Cesis, travelers will find the ancient cultural landscape of Araisi.

The most visited and best open air museum in the country, the spot chronicles the lifestyles of the early Middle Age tribes of the Baltic region, who made their home on the lake banks here in timber lean-tos and wooden cottages.

There are also the ruins of a castle courtesy of the German Livonian Order on the site, along with oodles of archaeological finds that showcase everything from 14th-century fashion trends to advances in farming and agriculture during the 1300s.

In short, this fascinating reconstructed settlement is perfect for anyone eager to unravel Latvia’s deeper past.

11. Ligatne

Walkers, mountain bikers, campers, horse riders, wildlife lovers and Nordic skiers alike all flock to the small and forest-shrouded town of Ligatne.

As the gateway to the famed Gauja National Park, travelers can expect to uncover striking sandstone gorges and fir-forest-topped escarpments of Devonian rock, the caves of Gutmanala, the beautiful contours of the Erglu Cliffs and countless nature trails that delve deep into the woodlands on the edge of the town.

Ligatne itself is a small and sleepy affair, complete with the curiously out-of-place remnants of a paper-making industry boom and lines of pretty cottages topped with corrugated roofs.

12. Ventspils

The home of the best-preserved Livonian Order castle in the country – which rises against the cobbles of the Old Town here in pretty, yellow-washed facades – and one of the most bustling ports in the Baltic region, Ventspils offers the perfect balance of history and modernity.

Along with its charming Market Square and historic homes on Skolas Street, the city is also known as the flower capital of Latvia.

The moniker is honoured from springtime onwards, with blooming beds of flowers and bulbs erupting all around town and along its portside, seaside promenades alike.

Situated just down the courses of the mighty Daugava River as it carves its way into the very heart of Latvia, the town of Ogre has a history dating all the way back to the early years of the 1200s.

While overlooked by many travelers making their way through the Baltic region, the spot is perfect for those who want to sample raw, day-to-day Latvian life, seeking out stories of regional oppression in the town museum and wondering at monuments to the victims of the communist regime.

Ogre is also worthy of note because of its place on the edge of the pretty Dendrological Park Lazdukalni; a fine reserve for exploring the sheer variety of flora decorating these fringes of Northern Europe.

14. Kuldiga

Old World charm oozes from every crooked cottage and cobblestone lane of Kuldiga; a chocolate box of an historic core that makes its home in the very heart of the Kurzeme.

Timber homes dating from the 1700s form some of the most attractive sights in the city, while arched brick bridges and the elegant Baroque finish of the St Catherine’s Church belie the town’s boom time during the years of the Courland duchy.

And then there are the roaring waterfalls of the Venta River on the outskirts of town, which gush and flow around the verdant riparian habitats and winding tunnels of the Sand cave of Riezupe alike.

15. Liepaja

A patchwork of Art Nouveau and Russian Orthodox, bustling portside industry and blue collar working neighbourhoods, the 90,000-strong city of Liepaja makes for an interesting and immersive visit just a stone’s throw north from the Lithuanian border.

The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, with its soaring spire and colossal organ installation, and the bustling daily markets are two of the major draws here, while the former city of Karosta – a onetime clandestine settlement of Soviet military types on the edge of the modern city – is a must.

Here, the old remnants of tsarist and USSR forts are now being converted into art galleries and cafes, while windswept stretches of beach hug their way along the coast to boot.

15 Best Places to Visit in Latvia:

• Slitere National Park
• Rundale Palace

Latvia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Located on the Baltic Sea between Lithuania and Estonia , Latvia is a country often overlooked by travelers to Europe.

Yet this unappreciated country is affordable, safe, and offers a beautiful landscape dotted by wide beaches, ancient castles, and dense, sprawling forests.

Latvia’s capital, Riga, is home to a huge central market, art nouveau architecture, and a charming medieval Old Town. The country has lots of opportunities for outdoor adventures, tons of beaches along its 500 kilometers (310 miles) of coastline, and it’s home to Europe’s widest waterfall.

This travel guide to Latvia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this Baltic gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Latvia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Latvia

1. Explore Riga

Riga is the capital of Latvia. It has Romantic, Gothic, and Baroque architecture dating back to when the city was a powerful medieval port, and the city also has over 800 Art Nouveau buildings, an Open-Air Museum, and a massive central market. The medieval Old Town is pedestrian only and is full of shops and restaurants. Nearby you’ll find the trendy Livu Square, which is the best spot to experience nightlife at the bars and clubs. It’s a lively, fun capital!

2. Relax in a traditional sauna

Like much of northern Europe, saunas in Latvia are an important part of the culture. There is a firm belief that the sauna practice purifies the body and spirit. Saunas are called pirts in Latvia, and they are traditionally wet saunas. By pouring water over hot stones, steam is created. Many of the saunas in Latvia will have a pirtniek , or sauna expert, who has undergone training to guide you through the sauna experience. You will rotate between the heat of the sauna and a cold pool as well as get swatted by switches of juniper or birch (to remove dead skin cells). Prices range from 15-35 EUR.

3. Go hiking in Gauja National Park

Located in the northeast and spanning almost 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles), Gauja National Park is one of the most pristine examples of Latvian nature. Come here to hike, bike, and enjoy the views along the Gauja River. The 10,000-year-old Gutman’s Cave can be found here too. Thrill seekers can try bungee jumping from a cable car or zipline through the forests, but if you’re in search of a more relaxing adventure consider renting a canoe and floating down the Gauja River. Admission is free.

4. See castles in Sigulda

This region is considered “the Switzerland of Latvia.” In addition to the stunning landscape, there are several historic buildings here to explore, including the 19th century Krimulda Manor, Sigulda Castle, and the ruins of the 14th-century Krimulda Castle. In just a few minutes, you can drive north of Sigulda to the 11th century Turaida Castle, which is one of the most popular castles in Latvia. Built from beautiful red bricks, the castle features a tall cylinder-shaped tower surrounded by many other buildings. All of the structures have been converted into museums and galleries, such as the Folk Song Garden, which is full of sculptures of Latvian heroes and historical figures.

5. Visit the Rundale Palace

Built in two periods (1736-1740 and 1764-1768), this is like the Versailles of Latvia and was used for extravagant social events. It was originally intended to be a summer residence for Duke of Courland Ernst Johann von Biron, but construction froze when Biron was temporarily exiled. He finally finished his dream palace upon his return to Latvia and spent the rest of his life enjoying the beautiful estate. After his death, the property changed hands several times and was once given as a gift from Russia’s Catherine the Great to her lover’s brother. The Baroque and Rococo building is lavish and ornate with massive gardens and stately rooms. Admission is 13 EUR for the interior and gardens.

Other Things to See and Do in Latvia

1. visit jurmala.

Just a short 20-minute drive from Riga, the seaside town of Jurmala offers laid-back beaches and vibrant nightlife. Be sure to visit Dzintari forest park (which is home to 200-year-old trees and has several walking paths) and Mr. Morberg’s house, a 19th-century Neo-Gothic wooden house that looks and feels like a fairy-tale palace (the interior is both ornate and super colorful).

2. Go skiing

Cross-country skiing is one of the more popular winter pastimes in the country. For downhill skiing, there are slopes all across the country. Some suggested resorts and slopes to check out are Ozolkalns (Cesis), Victory Park (Riga), Vanagkalns (Cesis), and Milzkalns (Tukum). Expect to pay 10 EUR for a two-hour cross-country ski rental and 15 EUR for a lift pass (it’s one of the cheapest places to ski in Europe).

3. Explore Ventspils

Situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea, this city is a massive port and important commercial hub. If you aren’t into watching the ships come and go, head out to the town’s beaches where you can swim and sunbathe. There is a separate section for surfing (and kitesurfing) and even one for nudists! If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a waterpark in town too.

4. Visit Latgale

The region of Latgale sits in the eastern part of the country and is known as the Land of Blue Lakes thanks to its many picturesque lakes. The region has its own dialect and is perfect for camping, hiking, and enjoying the water. The area is also known for its delicious cheeses since there are tons of small farms here. You can base yourself in Daugavpils, the region’s largest city, or stay in some of the many cozy cottages or B&Bs around the countryside. Note: This region is best explored by car since public transportation is limited.

5. See the Corner House

The Corner House is the former headquarters of the Latvian KGB (the secret police). Situated in an Art Nouveau building in the center of Riga, today it serves as a dark reminder of the brutal tactics they employed during the Russian occupation (which lasted from 1940-1991). It’s where political prisoners would be brought for torture and interrogation. Admission is by donation and guided tours are available for 10 EUR. It’s sobering but informative.

6. Visit the Seaside Open-Air Museum

Located in Ventspils, the Seaside Open-Air Museum is dedicated to Latvia’s history, with a special focus on fishing and boating. There is a whole section dedicated to teaching traditional Latvian fishing techniques practiced in the region from the 18th century onwards, complete with replica fisherman’s houses, farmhouses, smokehouses, and local craftsmen offering visitors a display of their traditional crafting skills in action. Admission is 2 EUR.

7. Visit 1920s Latvia

Built in 2004 as the film set for the historical drama Defenders of Riga , the complex is a complete replica of 1920s Latvia (the film depicts Latvia in 1919 during its war for independence). Set on 370 acres of land, it includes a small town, a ‘Riga-esque’ city, and traditional Latvian farmland. When it isn’t in use as a film set, it is possible to visit the set and is a neat day trip for movie buffs.

8. Sleep in a prison

Located on the west coast in Liepaja, Karosta Prison is no longer in use (it shut down in 1997) but has reopened to tourists. It’s the only military prison in Europe open to tourists. You can take a day tour or book the full overnight experience. Ghost Hunters International once called Karosta Prison “the most haunted place in the world” so be prepared for a spooky stay. Tours are 7 EUR while overnight rooms start at 24 EUR (breakfast is an additional 5 EUR).

9. See a ballet or opera

The Latvian National Opera is home to both the Latvian National Opera and the Latvian National Ballet company. There are a variety of different performances held here including classical and contemporary dance, opera, traditional Latvian folk stories, and children’s plays. With over 200 performances each season, there is plenty to choose from. Tickets for performances start at just 5 EUR.

10. Celebrate Midsummer

In Latvia, the most important holiday is midsummer (the summer solstice). In the Latvian tradition, people stay awake for the whole night so they can greet the rising sun. There are public events across the country where they light bonfires, eat, drink, and dance all night. However, Midsummer in Latvia isn’t actually celebrated on solstice day — it’s always celebrated on the same day each year (June 23rd).

11. Get lost in Europe’s biggest market

The central market in Riga is a UNESCO Heritage Site and is the largest market in Europe. Opened in 1930, between 80,000-100,000 people visit each day. In addition to the standard fresh produce, fish, and meat, there are food stalls, souvenir stands, bars, and everything in between. Come here with an appetite and spend some time wandering the stalls and sampling all the offerings.

12. Stroll along the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk

Located in Kemeri National Park just outside of Jurmala, the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk lets you explore the inaccessible landscape of the marshland park. Established in 1997, the park offers a 3.7km loop that takes about 90 minutes to walk. There are all kinds of bogs, marshes, and lakes dotting the landscape as well as geese and cranes. Admission to the park is free.

13. Visit the House of the Black Heads

Now a museum, this 14th-century building was built in the old town of Riga for the Brotherhood of Blackheads. The brotherhood was a guild for unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners in Riga. The building had major works done in the early 17th century and it was extensively updated after it was bombed and destroyed in 1941. There are all kinds of artifacts here (pottery, paintings, silverware, etc.) and the space is often used for concerts and events. Admission is 8 or 9 EUR with a cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling wine respectively.

14. Explore Cesis Castle

The foundations of Cesis Castle were laid 800 years ago and the castle has had a violent history since that time, including when it was besieged by Ivan the Terrible’s army in 1577. The castle fell into disuse after the Great Northern War (1700-1721) but remains one of the most iconic and best-preserved medieval castles in Latvia. Admission varies by season so check the website for details. Guided tours in English cost 35 EUR. Cesis is just northeast of Riga.

Latvia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms start at 15 EUR per night for a dorm with 8 beds or more. For a smaller dorm with 4-6 beds, expect to pay around 26 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard, as are self-catering facilities. Private rooms in hostels are less common and cost between 20-60 EUR. Prices are fairly stable between the high and low seasons.

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. Moreover, wild camping is legal as long as you are on government land. If you do want to stay in a campground, basic plots without electricity access at 7.50 EUR.

Budget hotels and guesthouses start at 30 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea maker, TV, A/C, and self-catering facilities are all common.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 15 EUR per night but averaging around 25-40 EUR. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay 50-80 EUR (prices can be even higher in the summer).

Food – Much like their Baltic and Scandinavian neighbors, Latvian cuisine emphasizes meat, potatoes, and seafood. Dishes like cabbage soup, mashed peas and pork, and pelmeni (Russian ravioli) are some common favorites found at most restaurants. Pelekie zirni ar speki is the national dish, a stew made from peas, onions, and diced speck.

Cheap street food (like hot dogs and sausages) costs around 3-5 EUR while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs 7 EUR.

Many restaurants offer a “business lunch,” a fixed-price menu that consists of a starter, main course, and drink. Also known locally as “complex lunches,” prices for these meals vary from 5-8 EUR.

A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 25 EUR, while Chinese, Indian, or Thai (which can only be found in the larger cities) are usually under 10 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 7 EUR for a combo meal. A beer or latte costs 3-4 EUR. Bottled water is around 1 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 40-50 EUR for basic staples like vegetables, pasta, rice, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Latvia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 45 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beaches. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 110 EUR per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and castles or going kayaking.

On a “luxury” budget of 215 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Latvia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Latvia is a pretty affordable place to visit. You’ll be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money here unless you are going for fancy meals and accommodation. That said, it never hurts to save even more money! Here are some of the best ways to save money during your visit:

• Take a free walking tour – Riga offers a handful of free walking tours. They’re a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Take the bus – FlixBus is budget-friendly way to get around the country. They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – Some hostels here don’t include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money make sure you book accommodation that does. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it definitely saves you money!
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money, bring a tent and wild camp. It’s legal, safe, and free!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to not only save money but you get to meet a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Latvia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Latvia

There are hostels in most of Latvia’s larger cities. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel (Riga)
• The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel (Riga)
• Tree House Hostel (Riga)
• Central Hostel Jelgava (Jelgava)

How to Get Around Latvia

Public transportation – None of the Latvian cities have subways or elevated transport lines which means public transport can often be slow. In fact, public transportation outside of Riga is limited.

Prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.15 EUR for a standard adult ticket if you pay in advance. You can buy tickets onboard but they cost more (around 2 EUR).

In Riga, you can buy a 24-hour pass for 5 EUR, a 3-day pass for 10 EUR, or a 5-day pass for 15 EUR.

Taxi – Prices start around 2 EUR and cost around 0.70 EUR for every kilometer. Skip the taxis if you can — they add up fast!

Bus – If you are traveling outside of Riga’s suburban railway lines then taking a bus is the best option. Expect to pay 10 EUR or less for most trips. Riga to Ventspils, for example, takes three hours and costs about 10 EUR.

If you are continuing to neighboring countries, the bus is the most common mode of transport. On average, a bus from Latvia to Lithuania costs around 12 EUR. The four-hour ride from Riga to Tallinn, Estonia costs about the same.

Train – Train travel is limited and mostly centers around places you can do as day trips from Riga. Some of the most popular places you can travel from Riga to by train are Jurmala, Gauja National Park, and Daugavpils. Anywhere further afield is better accessed by bus. You can pretty much travel anywhere in the country for under 20 EUR.

Flying – There are no budget airlines operating domestically around Latvia (it’s a small country) but you can get cheap flights in and out of Riga with Air Baltic.

Car rental – I would not advise inexperienced drivers to drive in Latvia. It’s known to be one of the most dangerous countries in Europe to drive in. However, if you are driving you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Car rentals can be as low as 15 EUR per day for a multi-day rental.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Latvia

The best time to visit Latvia is from April through September. The summer months of July and August are the warmest (and make up the country’s busy season). Expect temperatures around 22°C (71°F).

During autumn, the shoreline, wetlands, and forests come alive with bird migrations. The national parks are particularly beautiful at this time of year with the changing colors, and it’s nice and cool for hiking.

Temperatures drop below freezing in the winter, so unless you’re coming for winter sports, I’d skip a winter visit to Latvia.

Be warned though, no matter what time of year you choose to visit, showers are common and unpredictable. Make sure you always have a raincoat handy.

How to Stay Safe in Latvia

Latvia is a safe country to travel. They have a low crime rate and even pickpocketing in the cities isn’t that common. That said, it’s always a good idea to keep your wits about you, keep your valuables secure, and avoid flashing things like jewelry around in public.

One danger you do need to be aware of in Latvia is when traveling by road. Latvia is notorious for bad driving — even crossing the street can be dangerous. Take extra caution if you rent a car. Additionally, don’t leave any valuables in your car overnight or when out hiking. Theft is rare, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Latvia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Latvia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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10 reasons to visit Latvia

Oct 1, 2015 • 5 min read

If you don’t already have a connection to Latvia , chances are it may not have crossed your mind as a potential destination for your next trip.

But this Baltic nation has more than a few surprises hidden amidst its lush pine forests and architecturally rich cities and towns. Here are ten reasons to add Latvia to your travel wish list.

It’s lost its walls and it isn’t as cutesy as others across Europe, but the old town in Latvia's capital,  Rīga , still has an impressive array of historic buildings, oversized churches and cobbled lanes. Best of all are the many sunny squares filled with beer gardens and street cafes, which in summer thrum with the cosmopolitan clatter of locals and tourists. In winter Old Rīga does its best impression of a scene from a Christmas card – which is fitting for the place where the very first Christmas tree was erected.

Art nouveau architecture

For fans of this theatrical style of architecture and design, there’s simply no better destination than Rīga. The city’s architects got completely carried away with this trend when it swept Europe around the beginning of the 20th century and, despite the wartime devastation, over 750 art nouveau buildings remain. Gaze up as you wander the streets and you’ll see a great many facades decorated with the swirling nature motives, bare-breasted goddesses and mythological beasts typical of the style. If you want to delve deeper, visit the period apartment which serves as the Rīga Art Nouveau Museum . For art nouveau furniture and fabrics, head to the Museum of Decorative Arts & Design .

Beautiful beaches

First-timers to the Baltic are often surprised by just how beautiful the beaches are. Granted, it doesn’t quite have the climate to match, but in the height of summer, the endless golden sands are a great place to let the kids loose with a bucket and spade. Jūrmala , only 20km from the capital, is Latvia’s swankiest beach town, filled with grand wooden holiday houses and large spa hotels. For a more relaxed vibe, try Ventspils in the northeast.

Soviet reminders

If you’re fascinated by the good, the bad and the ugly of the USSR, they can all be found in this former Soviet republic – although the scales are tipped strongly towards the latter two. ‘The good’ is represented by love-them-or-hate-them buildings such as Rīga’s overblown Academy of Science skyscraper (nicknamed Stalin’s wedding cake) and the boxy modernist building housing the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia . Inside, the museum succinctly summarises ‘the bad’ side of Soviet life such as deportations, gulags and purges. As for ‘the ugly’ – you don’t have to wander too far from the well-scrubbed touristy areas to find plenty of the grey, utilitarian buildings that epitomise the words ‘former Soviet’.

Rundāle Palace

If drab buildings were a hallmark of communism, surely excessive ostentation was the equivalent for the Russian Empire. The remarkable  Rundāle Palace , built for the Duke of Courland in the 18th century, is the grandest of its kind in the Baltics, with formal gardens modelled on those at Versailles and 138 rooms within its baroque shell. Inside, the state rooms are slathered with frescoes, moulded plasterwork and gilt trim.

Ancient castles

When German warrior monks pushed into the Baltics in the early 13th century, introducing the locals to the joys of Christianity with the pointy end of their swords, they couldn’t be certain of a warm welcome. Sturdy fortifications were a necessary precaution and castles sprang up throughout the land, many of which are still standing today. Visitors to Cēsis Castle are issued with a candle-powered lantern to explore the darker recesses of its ruined walls. The boxy Livonian Order Castle in Ventspils, by contrast, has been restored and converted into an excellent interactive museum.

Fairytale forests

If you want to get close to the Latvian heart, take a walk through the woods. Forests cover around 45 percent of the country and shelter a diverse range of critters, including a significant population of lynx, beavers and birds of prey. The best places to wander tree-dappled trails are in Ķemeri National Park, a large expanse of forest and bog near Jūrmala, and Gauja National Park, northeast of Rīga. From Sigulda, gateway to Gauja, leafy paths lead between the ruins of three castles and along the Gauja River.

Picturesque towns

Rīga does tend to steal much of the limelight, but more intrepid travellers should consider seeking out some of Latvia’s sleepier centres. Our favourites include pretty little Cēsis, hidden in the forested confines of Gauja National Park, and centred on a large church, ruined castle and ornamental lake. Much further west, Kuldīga boasts Europe’s widest waterfall (249m) – but at a height of only two metres, it’s more scenic than it is dramatic. The best views are from Kuldīga’s old castle grounds, which have been transformed into a leafy park and sculpture garden.

Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre

You might know him as one of America’s most celebrated artists and one of the world’s leading exponents of abstract expressionism, but Mark Rothko (1903-1970) was actually born in Daugavpils in Latvia’s southeast. In 2013 his home town recognised its most famous son with the opening of the Mark Rothko Art Centre ( rothkocenter.com ). Dedicated to art, culture and education, the centre is located in the arsenal building of a historic Russian-built fortress. The Rothko family stumped up some original works which hang alongside an ever-expanding collection of contemporary Latvian art.

Kooky experiences

From spy games in old Soviet coastal forts to horror scenes acted out in darkened basements, Latvia has a particularly pant-wetting range of experience-based attractions on offer. If you’re a glutton for Soviet-style punishment, report to Liepāja’s creepy old military gaol, Karosta Prison , for a few hours of abuse by costumed KGB operatives. For a more intense experience, you can even stay the night in a cell and get acquainted with the authentically awful toilet facilities.

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Latvia Travel Guide

• by Kaspars Misins
• Best Things to Do , Latvia
• 14/06/2020 09/05/2022
• 18 min read

This article may contain compensated links. Learn more in our disclaimer .

With this Latvia travel guide I want to help you to prepare for your trip to Latvia. Whether you will be traveling to Latvia independently or with a group. To read more about Latvia check out these articles !

[dropcap]L[/dropcap]atvia, my homeland, is a country  in the north of Europe , with Russia to the east, Lithuania, Belarus and Poland to the south, and Estonia to the north. Because of its geographical location, at the crossroads between Northern and Eastern Europe, Latvia has always been interesting to others. As a result there have been many different rulers in the last 800 years. However now Latvia is an independent country, a member country of the European Union and the Schengen Area.

Latvia’s coastline, most of it undeveloped, extends for more than 500 kilometers. About one half of the country is covered with forests, making Latvia one of the greenest countries in the world . Continue reading and you will learn all the basic and at the same time most important things (for travelers) about my homeland!

[accordion id=”my-accordion” ] [accordion_item title=”Basic Information About Latvia + FAQ” parent_id=”my-accordion” open=”false”]

1. Where is Latvia?

Located in the north of Europe, Latvia borders with Russia to the east, Lithuania, Belarus and Poland to the south, and Estonia to the north.

2. What’s the capital of Latvia?

3. What language do they speak in Latvia?

4. What currency does Latvia use?

Since January 1 2014 we use euro.

5. Do I need visa for Latvia?

Latvia is a Schengen country, member of European Union. You’ll need to apply for Schengen visa in order to travel to Latvia. That’s if you need visa to travel to Schengen countries. Scroll down to read more about it!

6. What’s the population of Latvia?

About 2 million.

7. What’s the territory of Latvia?

64 589 square kilometers / 24 937 square miles

Main religions: Lutheranism (34.3%), Roman Catholicism (25.1%), Eastern Orthodoxy and Old Believers (19.4%). Source: Wikipedia

Time zone: GMT +2

Emergency number:  112

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Table of Contents

Many People in Latvia Speak English

More than half of Latvians speak 3 languages – Latvian, English and Russian. English for most of us is the second language. We all are learning it at school and university. Since 1/4 of Latvia’s population are ethnic Russians – Russian is widely spoken as well.

Even though so many people in Latvia, especially in Riga, can speak at least basic English, I can’t say, that it’s widely used in Latvia . For example, in public transport it’s highly possible that driver will not speak English, and there will not be any announcements in English, only in Latvian. But again in Latvia you can be sure, that whenever there will be such a need, you will be able to find an English speaking person, who can help you out.

[x_blockquote type=”left”] TRAVEL INSURANCE: For travelers to Latvia we recommend  World Nomads Explorer Package!  [/x_blockquote]

Latvia Is a Budget Friendly Country for Traveling

Latvia is not an expensive country to travel. And since 2014 our currency is euro .

Especially when we compare prices in Latvia to prices in Scandinavian countries, which are so close. Food, public transportation, accommodation,… all of it in Latvia costs similar like in the cheapest countries of Europe .

It is always possible to get something like a burger, shoarma (in Latvia we call it kebab), salad, slice of pizza, sandwich or soup for about 1.5-3 euro. While full lunch or dinner in Latvia will set you back 4-6 euro. Of course, there are also more expensive options, and that’s not hard to find them. But in any case, in Latvia it is also possible to eat good food and in nice places paying just a fraction of what you would pay in many other European countries.

Traveling on a very tight budget and cooking all the time on your own you may notice, that shops like Lidl and Aldi, particularly in the Netherlands and Germany, have better prices for groceries that similar shops in Latvia. I can agree with you. In Latvia we don’t have these particular supermarkets. Most popular supermarkets in Latvia are Rimi, Maxima and Supernetto (the latter being the cheapest one).

Traveling by bus or by train in Latvia a journey of about 100 kilometers will cost about 5 euro.

In Latvia you can pay for almost everything with a bank card . I find it very convenient. When we are in Latvia I almost never have more than 5-10 euro in cash in my wallet. And I rarely use ATM’s. Because you don’t need it in Latvia. Everyone is paying for everything with a bank card.

Are you looking for things to do in Latvia? Need a guide? Check out these tours and this list of activities !

Mobile Internet in Latvia Is Very Fast (4G) and Affordable

In fact, Latvia has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world.

Having a broadband connection with download and upload speeds between 100 – 400 Mbps isn’t something extraordinary in Latvia. All mobile service providers in Latvia have 4G networks, which means that you can have a super fast internet (20 Mbps and more) on your smartphone or tablet as well.

Speaking about the  prices of mobile internet , they are similar for all mobile service providers in Latvia. For example, with Bite Latvija you can get 2 GB of mobile internet + unlimited calls and SMS for 11.15 euro, while the same plan with 6 GB will cost you – 14.71 euro, and with 10 GB – 16.84 euro. You don’t have to pay extra for 4G in Latvia.

Bite Latvija, LMT and Tele2 are the biggest mobile service providers in Latvia. None of them have a website in English, but don’t worry, most of their staff in stores speak at least some English.

Finding free and stable WiFi in Latvia mostly isn’t a problem either.

Latvia Travel Guide: Getting to Latvia

Similar like with most of European countries, it’s not a problem to get to Latvia. Bus and plane are 2 of the best options. It’s also possible to get to Latvia by ferry, but only from a few cities. If you prefer train, note that currently Latvia has international railway connections only with  Russia and Belarus.

1. Ferries to Latvia

From Stockholm , the capital city of Sweden, there are overnight ferries to Riga , the capital of Latvia.

From Travemunde , a town in Germany, there are ferries to Liepaja . And from Nynashamn , a town in Sweden, there are ferries to Ventspils . Both Liepaja and Ventspils are average-sized cities in the western Latvia.

2. Buses to Latvia

If you are traveling from Lithuania or Estonia to Latvia, then bus will be the best choice. There are direct buses connecting all the biggest cities of the Baltic states. Comfortable buses run frequently, several times per day. A journey from Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, to Riga by bus takes about 4 hours. Vilnius – Riga takes about the same as long.

There are direct buses also from other countries. Only keep in mind, that these trips will be longer. Most popular routes: Riga – Saint Petersburg (Russia), Riga – Moscow (Russia), Riga – Minsk (Belarus), Riga – Warsaw (Poland).

We recommend Lux Express.  You can buy bus tickets  from their website ! For more options check out the website of Riga International Coach Terminal . Sadly, but only part of it is translated in English.

3. Flights to Latvia

From almost any place in Europe it is possible to get to Latvia by plane within just a few hours. We have only one international airport in Latvia. It’s Riga International Airport – RIX. And currently, in June 2017, there are 17 airlines operating from there. Europe’s most popular low-cost airlines – Norwegian, Wizz Air and Ryanair – are between them. For up to date information check out the website of Riga International Airport .

There are direct flights to Riga from most of the European countries, as well as from New York, Moscow, Tel Aviv, Abu Dhabi and few more countries outside of Europe.

To find the best flight to Riga , go to  momondo.com ! Momondo is a travel search site, which compares deals from various sites. In the search results Momondo lets you to choose between the cheapest, quickest or overall best offers. So you can find what fits you best.

Latvia Travel Guide: Latvian Visa

Latvia is a Schengen Country. 

Which means – if you are not a resident of the European Union most probably you will need to apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Latvia. But there are exceptions. To see if you need to obtain a Schengen visa, check out this list . If your country is not on the list, then you don’t need a visa .

If you plan to visit several Schengen countries during your trip, then, of course, you don’t need to obtain a separate Latvian visa. You can go with the visa you already have.

Usually with Schengen visa you can stay in the Schengen area ( see the map ) for up to 90 days. There are single-entry (indicated with “1” on the visa sticker), double-entry (“02”) and multiple-entry (“MULT”) visas. Don’t forget about that! And if you have a single-entry visa plan your trip accordingly, that you don’t leave the Schengen area too early.

If you are a resident of the European Union , traveling to Latvia for you will be the sames as easy and seamless as going to any other EU country.

– Where and How to Apply for a Schengen Visa?

“You must lodge the application for a Schengen visa at the Consulate of the country that you intend to visit , or – if you intend to visit more than one Schengen State, the Consulate of the country where you will spend the longest period.

If you intend to visit several Schengen States and the stays will be of equal length, you must apply at the Consulate of the country whose external borders you will cross first when entering the Schengen area.” (Source: European Commission )

So if you are planning to visit only Latvia or if you plan to spend most of your trip in Latvia, then you should apply for a Schengen Visa at the Consulate of Latvia.

Read more about it here, on the website of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia. There you will find all the information necessary, including what documents are required to apply for a Schengen Visa.

Here you can see , where in the world Latvia has diplomatic missions – to put it simply, this map will help you to understand where in your country you can apply for a Schengen visa to travel to Latvia. But here, on this list, you can see to which embassy or consulate you should go, if there is no Latvian embassy or consulate in your country. And in this situation they will help you to obtain a visa.

Latvia Travel Guide: Accommodation in Latvia

In Riga, the capital of Latvia, you have it all – hostels, budget hotels, 5 star hotels and also plenty of nice apartments and rooms on Airbnb.

Outside of Riga there are mostly budget hotels and mid-range hotels, and only a few hostels. But it doesn’t mean, that there are no good hotels outside of Riga. There are. But not that much.

Another option outside of Riga is to stay at a guest house . Only downside would be, that these guest houses usually are away from cities and towns, and so you should better have a car. Check out what’s available on this site ! Unfortunately not all of the information on that site is in English. To book something you will need to contact them via email, their website or Facebook page.

You can get either a room or a whole house. Often there is also a sauna and a pond, lake or river near by. It’s a very popular choice among the locals. Latvians like to rent a whole house with sauna for all kind of celebrations. Either together with friends, colleagues or family.

Prices: a bed in a 18-bed dorm will cost you starting from about 5 EUR per night, a bed in a 4-bed dorm – starting from about 7 EUR per night, a double room in a budget hotel – starting from about 20 EUR per night, a whole apartment close to Riga city center rented via Airbnb – starting from about 30 EUR per night.

To find a hotel or a hostel in Latvia go to  booking.com and  Hostelworld.com .

Check out also Airbnb , if you want to stay in an apartment instead and live like a local in Latvia! Register using my Airbnb link and you will get a discount for your booking. We’ll get a discount, too. We have been using Airbnb since 2012.

Latvia Travel Guide: What to Do in Latvia?

If you are traveling only to Riga, the capital of Latvia, then check out our guide to Riga !

1. Bus and Rental Car Are Two of the Best Choices for Traveling Around

Take a bus if you don’t have a drivers licence or if you aren’t going to travel around Latvia too much.

Renting a car at the same time will give you much more flexibility and freedom . If you are traveling together with someone it will also cost you less than traveling by public transport. And you will be able to reach more distant parts of Latvia, where buses and trains aren’t going that frequent. There are places where public transport goes only few times a week. As everything in Latvia when compared to most of Europe renting a car in Latvia can be also very cheap.

There are also trains in Latvia , but there aren’t too many of them. You can check if there is a train going to the city where you want to get on the site of Latvian Railway company .

2. You Can Travel Whole of Latvia in a Couple of Days

Take advantage of it and go on that trip across Latvia! Go and see more than just Riga and Sigulda.

From the far west to far east of Latvia it’s just about 400 kilometers. Rent a car in Riga and go on a road trip. Especially if it’s a snowy winter or sunny summer, when you are in Latvia. Traveling through the countryside of Latvia you will see completely different country than the one you see in Riga.

If you are traveling to Latvia in summer , I urge you to go Latgale, region in the east of Latvia, known also as a land of blue lakes. That’s the real Latvia, what you will see while driving there. You will see with your own eyes, why Latvia is called one of the greenest countries in the world.

3. The Best Time to Visit Latvia

Latvia has 4 seasons – spring, summer, autumn and winter. When I was a kid, and that was almost 20 years ago, we had cold and long winters. We had snow starting from late November and until early April. But now weather has changed. It can be a lot of snow in the beginning of December, and it can be +10 C / 50 F and raining during Christmas.

If you want to see snow , your best bet now would be to travel to Latvia in late January/February. Temperatures then can drop to as low as -30 C / -22 F However, if you can’t stand cold weather, visit Latvia in July. It’s the hottest month in Latvia. Temperatures then can reach +30 C / 86 F, sometimes more. Usually in summer they are lower, between + 15 C / 59 F on a cloudy day, in the evenings and in the mornings, and +25 C / 77 F on a sunny day.

I recommend you to visit Latvia either in winter (late January/February), during the summer, when everything is green, or in autumn (late September/October), when leaves change their color from green to orange, yellow, red.

4. What to Do in Latvia?

Top tourist destinations in latvia are –  riga , sigulda ,   cesis.

• Go to Riga for culture, history, Art Nouveau architecture and nightlife. If you want to have a piece of all of it, head to old town of Riga or wander through the streets near by.
• Cesis, an average-sized Latvian town about 100 kilometers away from Riga, is another popular destination for those who love culture, history and architecture .
• Sigulda, a town 1 hour train/bus ride away from Riga, is the right place where to go for outdoor activities. Kayaking. Bungee jumping. Hiking. Mountain biking. Snowboarding and skiing during the winter. All of it and much more is possible in Sigulda.

If you are into nature, camping and hiking, I have good news for you –  Latvia has hundreds of kilometers of undeveloped seashore . These are mostly nice and deserted beaches, being where you will feel like Robinson Crusoe.

– Western Latvia

Liepaja, Ventspils and Kuldiga are 3 of the most popular destinations on the west of Latvia, not without a reason. Liepaja and Ventspils are also among the largest cities of Latvia. Though, they aren’t really big, nor too populated.

Liepaja is popular because of its cultural life . Kite-surfers love Liepaja as well.

Ventspils like Liepaja is by the sea, and it’s a rather beautiful port city . The port of Ventspils is mostly used by cargo ships.

Kuldiga between those three is the smallest one and, as many would say, the cutest one, too. It’s a charming town with quite a lot of well preserved old buildings. One of the Europe’s widest waterfalls is near Kuldiga.

– Eastern Latvia

Daugavpils and Rezekne are the most popular destinations on the east of Latvia.

Daugavpils, with a population of a little bit under 100 000, is the second largest city in Latvia. It’s an old city like the rest of the cities I have already mentioned. And it has the highest ratio of ethnic Russians in Latvia. If you like art  Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre is the place where to go when visiting Daugavpils

3 places in Rezekne that are worth the visit are  – The Embassy of Latgale ‘GORS’ , ‘ZEIMUĻS’ Centre of Creative Services of Eastern Latvia and Latgale Culture and History Musem.

Are you looking for more things to do in Latvia? Need a guide? Check out these tours and this list of activities !

Latvia Travel Guide: Food in Latvia

Food in Latvia is rather heavy.

Latvians like to eat a lot. And Latvians like to eat meat. Pork and chicken are 2 of the most popular choices. But boiled and mashed potatoes are often the side. Together with it we often eat also some vegetable salad, mostly dressed with sour cream or mayonnaise. Latvian food is not spicy at all.

Few Latvian Dishes to Try:

• mashed potatoes with cottage cheese and herring (kartupeļu biezenis ar biezpienu un siļķi),
• cold beet root soup (aukstā biešu zupa) or any other cold soup, if you are traveling to Latvia in summer,
• grey peas and speck (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi),
• stewed sauerkraut cabbage (štovēti kāposti),
• pork in aspic (cūkgaļas galerts).

From drinks try Latvian beer, Riga Black balsam and kvass! Valmiermuiža and Brenguļu are two of the best of Latvian beers.

Few of the best places where to try Latvian cuisine when you are traveling to Riga include Ala Folk Club , Lido and Silkites & Dillites . They are serving mostly, if not only, Latvian dishes. So you can’t go wrong ordering just anything.

If you still have some questions about traveling in Latvia, check out also our other articles about Latvia!

You can start with these 3:

1) 25 Top Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

2) 33 top things to do in latvia (apart from visiting riga), 3) 20 photos that will make you want to travel to latvia.

Disclosure: some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means – if you choose to book accommodation, buy some products or services through these links, we may earn a small commission. This has no effect on the price for you.

Latvia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Latvia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Though small in size, Latvia has a lot to offer travelers of all kinds.

This Baltic State and member of the European Union is quickly becoming a favorite destination of travelers around the world, particularly those who want to see Europe on a budget.

The country is also very safe with an easy-to-navigate public transport system, making Latvia great for solo female travel .

Whatever your travel style, you’ll find that Latvia is a hidden gem rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

The centrally-located capital of Riga is the perfect home base for any trip to Latvia; many of the country’s top attractions are just a day trip away from the capital and easily accessible via public transport.

Fly into Riga International Airport, then hop on a free walking tour of the city to learn some fun Latvia facts.

From there, you can take a walk around Riga’s Old Town or explore some of the city’s many historic churches and museums.

Read on for more Riga tourism tips below!

Latvia is also the perfect destination for outdoor activities.

With four national parks, there are plenty of ways to experience the country’s lush landscape.

Latvia is also a great option for those looking for a different kind of beach vacation.

For instance, Cape Kolka — the point where the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga meet — is home to miles of splendid coastline where you can see both the sunrise and the sunset.

Wander around one of the local fishing villages and enjoy some traditional Latvian cuisine like smoked fish.

Latvia’s seaside resort towns like Jurmala are also worth a visit, especially for the national parkland and wide, golden sand beaches.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Latvia in Europe.

Note: This ultimate guide to Latvia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Latvia tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Tips For Visiting Latvia

The following guides can help you plan the perfect Latvia travel itinerary !

Here’s What Happens When You Travel Latvia Solo

11 Amazing Destinations For Curious Solo Female Travelers (Including Latvia!)

Best Latvia Tours

Explore local culture with a Latvia tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Day Tour to Rundale Palace from Riga
• Tour To Ķemeri National Park And Smoked Fish Tasting from Riga
• Half-Day Latvian Herbal Traditions and Mandala Workshop with Lunch from Riga
• Culinary, Historic & Wine Tour to Sigulda and Cesis from Riga
• Slitere National Park Latvian Nature Hiking Tour from Riga
• Night Kayaking In Riga City Canal
• Riga Old Town and Central Market Walking Tour
• Hike In Gauja National Park – Up And Down The Switzerland Of Latvia from Riga

Renting A Car In Latvia

Need a rental car for your Latvia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Latvia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Latvia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local apartments and rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays and experiences:

Latvia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Latvia tour. When visiting Latvia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Latvia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Latvia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Latvia .

Q: Which countries make up Eastern Europe?

When planning a trip to Europe , it’s helpful to have a lay of the land. Countries within Eastern Europe include:

• Czech Republic
• Herzegovina

Q: What is Latvia famous for?

Latvia is probably most famous for its vast array of lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.

The small country is home to 12,000 rivers and 3,000 lakes, each as beautiful as the next. If you like to explore nature by water, this is the place to be.

There’s plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing throughout the country, too.

Latvia’s most famous water feature is Ventas Rumba, the widest waterfall in Europe. Stretching 249 meters, the waterfall is an incredible sight and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Q: What are the best things to do in Latvia?

To get a taste of Latvia’s history and culture, head to Riga, the nation’s capital and largest city.

Here, you can wander through the streets of the city’s Old Town and see churches and buildings that date back to the 13th century.

The city is also full of colorful Art Nouveau architecture that will transport you back to the turn of the 20th Century. You can see even more art and artifacts from this period of history at the Art Nouveau Museum.

After a long day of exploring, relax with a treatment or soak at one of the city’s many spas — a must for any trip to Eastern Europe.

Exploring the city alone? Check out our full Riga travel guide for solo travelers .

Outside of the capital, there are plenty of opportunities for historic exploration.

Visit one of the country’s many medieval castles like Sigulda Castle or Bauska castle and learn about the lives of Latvia’s former royal rulers.

Those interested in more recent history should visit the Ligatne Bunker, a former nuclear shelter built by the Communist Party of Latvia. Try on a gas mask and even have a meal in this relic of the Cold War.

If hanging out in a bunker isn’t quite your style, head to the sauna museum just 40 kilometers (~25 miles) outside of Riga to learn more about the rituals and culture of Latvian bathhouses.

Latvia is also a great destination for outdoor exploration.

From mountains to lakes to bogs and marshes, the country has something for every kind of outdoorsy type.

Latvia also has plenty of coastline for those who want to take a (chilly) walk on the beach or do some fishing.

Gauja National Park, with its system of caverns and grottos, is a favorite of both locals and travelers.

And you can’t miss the mineral springs and marshes of Kemeri National Park!

Q: How much money do I need per day in Latvia?

As far as European destinations go, Latvia is one of the most affordable. The average traveler spends about $63 USD per day in Latvia on accommodations, transportation, food, entertainment and other expenses.

Hostels and budget hotels are incredibly affordable (usually around $5 USD per night for a hostel bed and $30 USD per night for a hotel room) and you can usually get a prix fixe lunch deal at a decent restaurant for around $10 USD.

Q: How many days do you need for Latvia?

Latvia’s size makes it perfect for a shorter trip or an addition to a longer journey through the Baltic region.

You can see a fair amount of the country in about five days; however you plan your trip, you’ll want to spend at least one day in Riga to get the most out of the capital city.

Q: Is Latvia safe to travel?

Latvia is considered a pretty safe destination for travelers. The country has low rates of violent crime, though pickpocketing and petty theft still occur.

As with any travel destination, it’s best to stay vigilant and keep any valuables close to you and out of sight, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Riga’s Old Town. You might even consider investing in pickpocket-proof garments to avoid thieves altogether.

The country also has a reputation for dangerous drivers, something to keep in mind if you’re planning on renting a car.

Take extra precautions when crossing the street and avoid jaywalking.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Latvia?

Tourists from many countries — like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Brazil — can visit Latvia for up to 90 days without a visa.

Q: Do I need a Latvia travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, Brazil, Australia, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Latvia for a period of fewer than 90 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Latvia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

Q: When is the best time to visit Latvia?

Latvia can get very cold in the winter, so it’s best to visit between April and September. The milder weather also means more opportunities to explore the abundant nature and outdoor activities that Latvia is known for.

Q: Where is Latvia?

Latvia is one of the Baltic states or Baltic nations in Eastern Europe.

The country borders Estonia, Russia, Belarus, and Lithuania, as well as the Baltic Sea.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Latvia?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Latvia, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Latvia?

While the tap water is safe to drink in most places, locals typically prefer filtered or boiled water.

Q: What is the local currency in Latvia?

The local currency in Latvia is the Euro (€).

What would you add to this Latvia travel guide?

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10 Best Places to Visit in Latvia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Surrounded by Estonia, Russia, Belarus, Lithuania and the Baltic Sea is the nation of Latvia. The country is a blend of urban sights, like the capital of Riga, and scenic landmarks. From waterfalls to national parks, Latvia offers great views and plenty of outdoor activities. Beaches, forests and medieval villages compete for your attention, and the only answer is to see all the best places to visit in Latvia.

10. Liepaja [SEE MAP]

On the eastern coast, on the Baltic Sea, is the city of Liepaja. Briefly the capital of Latvia during the First World War, Liepaja is really a city divided. One half of the city is the traditional center. The northern half is better known as Karosta, and it was once a secret Russian military town. As a result, the architecture of Liepaja changes depending on where you are in the city. Most visitors come to Liepaja for the spectacular white sand beaches. Vecliepaja and Dienvidrietumi are the two most popular beaches, but even they rarely get crowded. One of Karosta’s beaches is the site of a major annual beach music festival, usually held in July.

9. Gauja National Park [SEE MAP]

Much of Latvia is undeveloped, and Gauja National Park is one example of a pristine environment where you can get back to nature. Caves, cliffs and other rock formations are a big draw to the park. If you’re a spelunker at heart, you can tour enormous caverns like Gutmanala. This cavern’s walls are covered in inscriptions, and legend says that its waters have healing powers. The Gauja River runs through the park, and it is lined with breathtaking cliffs. Getting active in the park is recommended, with hiking, mountain biking and canoeing all being great options.

8. Kuldiga [SEE MAP]

In the small town of Kuldiga, a river runs right between homes and along streets, giving the town the nickname of Latvian Venice. However, it is Europe’s widest waterfall that most people come to see. The waterfall, known as Venta, is a staggering 240 meters (785 feet) wide. During the spring, salmon jump over the waterfall, and locals catch the fish in midair in a spectacular fashion. You can also admire the brick bridge that spans the waterfall. Although it was damaged in the Second World War, much of it still remains intact.

7. Cape Kolka [SEE MAP]

At the northeastern tip of Latvia is Slitere National Park. The jewel in the park’s crown is Cape Kolka, which is surrounded by water and offers spectacular views. Cape Kolka feels remote and pristine because of its history as well as its location. When Latvia was under Soviet rule, the cape was zoned off and used for the military, and some villages were completely abandoned. Now, Cape Kolka is a beautiful way to step back in time and explore a part of Latvia that few people have ever had the chance to experience. Plus, the white sand dunes and views over the water are remarkable in their own right.

6. Cesis [SEE MAP]

One of the oldest towns in the country is Cesis, located in the Central Vidzeme Upland. The Old Town is a main reason to visit, and the cobblestone streets set the tone for quaint, charming exploration. Cesis also boasts two castles, side by side, that are extraordinary. The first is the original Cesis Castle, founded in the 13th century and now mostly in ruin. Next door is the New Cesis Castle, constructed in the 18th century. The new castle is beautiful and surrounded by gorgeous grounds. The castle is also home to the Cēsis Museum of History and Art.

5. Rundale Palace [SEE MAP]

Latvia has its fair share of palaces, and Rundale Palace is certainly one of the most beautiful. The Baroque building was constructed during the 18th century for the Dukes of Courland. Sculptors and painters from Germany and Italy were brought in to work on the palace, and the upscale details are still a highlight. Most of the rooms are still furnished in a period-appropriate way, and they are open to tours. You can see a fully restored suite that once belonged to a duchess, admire Gilt Hall and stroll through the Great Gallery. On site is the Rundale Palace Museum, which is also definitely worth a visit.

4. Ventspils [SEE MAP]

Right on the coast of the Baltic Sea is Ventspils, one of the busiest ports in Europe. The port plays a big role in the city’s culture, and watching ships come in and out can be a fantastic activity. Tie it into a trip to the Seaside Open Air Museum, where you can see traditional fishing huts, curing cabins and hundreds of artefacts from the city’s past. One of the city’s main draws is the long stretch of clean white-sand beach at the town’s western, popular with sun worshippers, volleyball players and kitesurfers in summer.

3. Jurmala [SEE MAP]

For travelers spending time in the capital of Riga, Jurmala is the perfect day trip. Located right on the Gulf of Riga, Jurmala is a coastal resort destination. It is the largest resort on the Baltic, and the stretch of sandy coastline is one of the longest in Northern Europe. In addition to the beach, Jurmala is known for its charming wood architecture. Specifically, many of the older buildings look similar to gingerbread houses. The resort was once a place where Russians would recuperate, so there are still riding therapy centers and traditional Russian sanatoriums dotting the coast.

2. Sigulda [SEE MAP]

In the Gauja River Valley, and less than an hour’s drive from Riga, is the historic town of Sigulda. Sigulda is nicknamed the Switzerland of Latvia thanks to its beautiful scenery, but it also offers some amazing architecture worth exploring. Krimulda Manor, built in the 19th century, is surrounded by gorgeous grounds and gardens, and it is open to the public. Sigulda is also home to some ruined castles like Krimulda Castle and the Sigulda Medieval Castle Ruins. While the medieval Sigulda Castle dates back to the 12th century and is now in shambles, the Sigulda New Castle stands next door and is in beautiful condition.

1. Riga [SEE MAP]

As the capital, Riga is undoubtedly the most popular place to visit in Latvia. The Old Town, or Vecrīga, looks medieval, but much of the architecture was actually rebuilt in the 1990s. The part of the city known as Centrs, on the other hand, is home to more than 800 staggeringly intact Art Nouveau buildings. One of the best ways to explore Riga is on foot, stopping to snap pictures of incredible sites along the way. If you’re curious about Latvian history and culture, then the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum is an incredible choice. There is a collection of traditional homes, and people milling around in authentic dress only add to the scene.

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January 16, 2020 at 5:58 pm

SIGULDA – you are showing actually a photo of the castle of Turaida which is very close to Sigulda but you not mention this castle in the text. In and near Sigulda are four castles: the old castle (ruins) of Sigulda, the new castle of Sigulda, the castle (which is more like a manor house) of Krimulda and the medieval castle of Turaida, which I would consider the most important for tourists of all four.

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9 Helpful Things to Know Before Visiting Latvia

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

Admittedly, I knew very little about the Baltic country of Latvia before finally deciding to visit that part of Europe last July. I knew where it was on a map and that my primary school music teacher was from there. Basic research confirmed what I already knew – I should visit Riga . But as is my style, I wanted to see more of the country when visiting Latvia than just its capital. After my first 2-week visit there during my travels through the Baltic , I came away with an immediate love for the country.

Part of that is probably due to it blowing any expectations I had out of the water. Latvia is a country with incredible depth, be it cultural, historical or natural. In fact, I enjoyed Latvia so much the first time that I planned a longer second visit in 2018. Travelling around Latvia is also actually pretty easy and so this list has fewer warnings or vital tips than usual. Instead, let’s focus on all the reasons why Latvia is worth visiting and why you should definitely do it.

Table of Contents

1. It’s Not Only Riga

The sad truth is that when people visit Latvia, the overwhelmingly majority only see Riga and then leave. It seems to be a common curse in the Baltic – people don’t know what else the country has to offer. But Latvia had a lot more going on than just Riga. Yes without a doubt, Riga is a beautiful, entertaining city that will more continue to attract more and more tourists in years to come.

All it takes though is just a few more days for inquisitive visitors to see how much more this country has to offer. You can even use Riga as a base to explore, thanks to its relatively central location in Latvia. Within a couple of hours of Riga, you can reach Sigulda and all its nearby castles across the Gauja Valley .

Just a little further along the valley is charming Cēsis with its quaint streets and own impressive castle. In the other direction, you have the freshly added UNESCO site of Kuldīga and the remarkable Venta Rapids . Continue on to the coast and you reach beaches galore, like at Liepāja and Karosta ; there’s simply so much to see.

2. Entry and Visa for Latvia

As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Zone, entry to Latvia is just as straightforward as most of Europe. If you are travelling within the Schengen Zone, you’ll benefit from the ability to freely move between member countries, which include neighbouring Estonia and Lithuania. Essentially, if you have a European passport it should be insanely simple.

For nationalities like Australians who are able to visit for 90 days visa-free, visiting Latvia is no different to visiting Germany or Italy. The list of countries eligible for this waiver can be found here . For those not coming from the EU or from the previous list, you can find more information on Latvian visas here . As always, ensure you know your visa requirements before visiting.

3. Getting Around Latvia

Latvia is probably a much bigger country than most people suspect. And yet, it is actually quite straightforward to get around. Despite being off in the west of Latvia, Riga is very much a transit hub you can use to reach most places.

Latvia is connected by both train and bus networks, the information which can be found here . This system is so easy to use and reliable, taking a lot of stress out of travelling to smaller destinations around the country. While I only took the train between Riga and Sigulda, I did find it cheap and efficient. Trains also run to towns and cities like Daugavpils, Tukums and Ogre.

Most of the time though, I travelled using Latvia’s various bus networks. Buses not only cover the gaps in the train network, they’re also of a high quality and great value. Lux Express is the premium Baltic bus network and uses some of the nicest buses I’ve ever been on. While they may be a little more expensive, the value you get is considerable.

Of course, another option always open to you is to rent a car . Driving in some countries feels like it would stress me out, but not Latvia. Maybe with the exception of driving in central Riga, it didn’t seem especially busy or difficult. It helps that the quality of the roads around the country are quite good these days too.

4. Is Latvia Cheap or Expensive?

A rather recent development for Latvia is the adopting of the Euro, which became the country’s official currency on 1 January 2014. This is just another reason why visiting Latvia is easier than you probably realise as it cuts the hassle out of getting a new currency out and inevitably trying to use it all up before you leave.

Regarding expenses and budgeting, while it many not be as cheap as say the Balkans, Latvia is definitely more affordable than Western and Central Europe. Things like getting coffee (1-2€), local public transport (<1€), intercity transport (2-7€) and accommodation can be pretty good value for money.

Entrance fees to places like castles, panoramic views and cable cars are probably only a little under the European average. Even dining out (6-18€) can be pretty cheap, especially with No. 8 below. Essentially, if you’re on a budget, visiting Latvia’s a pretty good pick.

5. Fascinating History

If you’ve been following this blog a while, you’ve probably picked up on the fact that I’m a bit of a history-buff. I’m just always keen to learn the history of places I visit. As mentioned earlier, I knew little about Latvia or its history but it turns out Latvia has a pretty fascinating past.

While the area has been settled for millennia, a big change occurred in the 12 and 13th centuries when German Crusaders came to the region to convert the pagan locals. It was these Germans that founded Riga and through the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, and their successors the Livonian Order, occupy the country. They were the ones that built castles like those found at Cēsis, Sigulda and Turaida , leaving the land with some incredible fortresses.

The region passed from power to power until 1710 when it was occupied by the Russian Empire, and which it belonged to right up until the Russian Revolution. This chaos in Russia provided the right circumstances for Latvia to oust the Russians, declaring independence on 18 November 1918 and after 2 years fighting was recognised globally as an independent nation in 1920. The museum at the New Castle in Cēsis covers this period quite well.

This independence was short-lived however, with the country falling under the control of the Soviets, then the Nazis and then back to the Soviets during WWII. While it was stayed under Soviet control for almost 50 years, Latvia was able to reclaim independence in 1991 and marked 25 years of independence last year.

6. Language

The national language of Latvia is mysteriously known as…Latvian. Unlike Estonian , Latvian is a Baltic language and one of only two remaining Baltic languages spoken today, the other being Lithuanian. Its more distant cousins are the Slavic languages, e.g. Russian, Polish, Czech and you may hear some similarity when spoken (or you may not be able to tell one way or another, depending on your familiarity with languages).

All that being said, I did find that many people spoke some degree of English, with German and of course Russian not being uncommon either. Somewhere like Riga you’ve got great odds as it is a city that sees plenty of tourists, especially Brits. Somewhere smaller like Liepāja for example, a bit less likely.

Some  useful phrases  to know include  Sveiki  which is ‘Hello’;  Paldies   which is ‘Thank you’, Lūdzu  for ‘Please’; and  Jā  and Nē  for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’. You’ll notice that Latvian uses letters like ū,  ā and  ē, but don’t fret too much about them.

7. Awesome Architecture

A welcome, yet unexpected surprise was learning of all of Latvia’s amazing architecture. It started when I read about the couple of blocks in Riga that boasted pristine Art Nouveau buildings . As it turns out, there are actually plenty of eye-catching buildings throughout the capital beyond those few streets, but they are surely some of the most majestic and elegant.

And while it may not be Art Nouveau, many of the country’s towns have their own architectural charms. From quaint seaside houses in Jūrmala, to the brick and wood panel buildings of Cēsis, Bauska , and Kuldīga, few places in Latvia came across as bland or boring; there’s always something to appreciate as you explore. I especially enjoyed walking around small towns like Jekabpils and Ludza just for this reason.

8. LIDO Cafeterias

What would you think if I said that eating at a self-service cafeteria was a must when visiting Latvia? It may seem like an odd recommendation, but cafeterias and the LIDO brand are an institution in Latvia. The LIDO chain, plus plenty of smaller independent cafeterias, are a common lunch and dinner spot for many Latvians and a great budget option for travellers.

For roughly 7€ you can get a tasty main (including veggies!), drink and even dessert. It may not be fine dining, but definitely a cheap, warm meal that will leave you satisfied. While I only found the LIDO brand in Riga, I did come across local ones like Zalumnieku Piestatne in Sigulda.

9. The Beautiful Baltic Beaches

I have to admit, I never really thought of the Baltic countries as beach destinations. And yet, I was blown away by the beauty of their beaches and Latvia’s in particular. While the water may have been chilly, the long and wide sand beaches found up and down its coast were gorgeous and quiet. On top of that, in the case of both Jūrmala and Karosta, the back drop was serene forest and what more could you ask for?

While I never managed a proper beach day, some of my favourite moments were spent down by the beach. Of course, the stand out has to be walking along the deserted beaches of Karosta in search of the Northern Forts. Honestly, if I’d gone for a swim and laid on a towel for a bit, that could have been a perfect day.

Resources for Visiting Latvia

• Getting There: To find the cheapest and most convenient flights to Latvia make sure to check Kayak .
• Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, apartments and guesthouses for across Latvia.
• Tours: There are some great day trips and sightseeing tours available in Latvia for you.
• Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
• Managing Money: The Wise card can be a great option for getting cash out and making purchases .
• Travel Medical Insurance: Need coverage in case you get sick, or injured, or your luggage gets lost? Get a quote for Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing .

Have you been to Latvia before? What do people need to know when planning a visit? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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I had heard great things about Riga, but really not much about anything else so nice to hear there is more to see. I am pretty impressed with those beaches too and the architecture looks lovely. Sounds like a great place to spend two weeks. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard

I have not been to Latvia but it is a country on my radar. I am one of those who do not conform to visiting only capitals, so, if I stop by, I would make the efforts to see more. It is good that the prices are kind of decent (like that). I am planning a trip to Germany and I am seeing a big difference when compared to Spain or Central Europe. #TheWeeklyPostcard

The Baltic nations are now appearing on the tourism radar which is fantastic. Based on the few articles that I have read about Latvia, you’re right, tourists tend to leave Latvia after visiting Riga. Don’t think I have read articles that mention at length the other destinations within the country. Thanks for giving us some insights 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard

Useful information for visiting Latvia, somewhere Paul visited on a stag weekend, but didn’t venture further than Riga or the bars!! Great post. #feetdotravel

While I vaguely remember Riga and visiting beaches in Jurmala, I can’t remember much more about my visit to Latvia as a kid. I really want to go back and following your blog has really given me some great ideas! I’ve been looking at flights to Latvia ever since your first post! Hopefully they still speak Russian there which would make it slightly easier to get around! Great tips for visiting the country and hopefully I will get to use them some day soon!

Oh it would be silly to just go to Riga and see nothing else! If I went all the way up there, I would go big or go home! #TheWeeklyPostcard

Latvia did seem a bit too hard in the past so thanks for the heads up re currency, visas and transport out of Riga. The architecture and beaches are a definite drawcard.

What a great adventure. The history is fascinating and I like how the country is connected by a train and bus network. The currency and visa information is a plus to know but I do love the empty beaches and stunning architecture. Great photos…. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing a useful post about Latvia. The history seems to be really interesting and the architecture too. We will keep your ideas and tips in mind if we visit Latvia when we go to Europe this summer! Keep up the great work, it’s always a real pleasure to read your articles! Very informative and useful:) Patrick and Cécile from http://www.travel4lifeblog.com

I visited my cousins in Latvia way back in 1995.It was a country in transition from the old Soviet past to a new vibrant independance.The things I enjoyed were going to the farmers markets, picking mushrooms and hazelnuts in the pine forests with my cousins.One of the highlights was having a sauna then running naked and jumping into the crystal clear freezing lake to cool off,then running back to the sauna.I don’t know what it is like now but where ever we travelled in Latvia people were so kind and open and amazed we travelled all that way to see their country especially with a one year old.

As I have a friend from Latvia, I have found your posts most interesting! I didn’t know they moved to the Euro, how terrible of me! Fantastic to hear that it is easy to travel around though, it certainly makes getting out of Riga and seeing more of the country more appealing and you are right, people should get out and about and see what else this country has to offer, I know I can’t wait to visit and follow your example. Thank you for all the fabulous information, stories and history you have provided, pinned for the future. #feetdotravel

don’t be surprised, if somebody does not hear any language, except Russian.

One more important thing about Latvia is how outdoor adventurous it is – with barefoot hikes, agility courses for young and old, built in woods, extensive bike lines. Maybe for your next trip. Also- very kids friendly, most restaurants have kids play areas and toys, park rentals for ride on toys and many advanced playgrounds, especially outsided Riga-it’s not uncommon to have a whole city block dedicated for various kids things

Great information… I hope I get to visit one day.

Latvia gained independence November 18, 1918, not in 1920. We are getting ready for Latvia’s 100th birthday next year.

Thank you for your comment Indra. I was going off the end of the War of Independence, so I’ve updated it to be clearer.

Enjoy photo slideshow around Latvia.

http://www.seelatvia.com

I would also have never imagined Latvia to have beautiful beaches. Now we want to go check out the beaches and architecture based on your beautiful pictures 🙂

The Art Noveau building looks so beautiful. Latvia seems like a great place to visit and easy on the pocket. Thanks for sharing.

Latvia seems to be a great travel destination, too bad that not many tourists are going there. I wasn’t aware they have euros – this is another reason why I should visit it. Thank you for sharing all of this useful information, I will save it for future reference.

It’s so true what you say about people only visiting the Baltic capitals as they don’t know what else to do. I must say I am guilty of not exploring that much further than Riga when it comes to Latvia, yet I think I’ve seen more than most. Every Estonian knows and goes to the Jurmala waterpark in Latvia as its one of the biggest in the area.

I love the types of place you visit 🙂 Definitely off the conventional tourist trail! And your articles are on point for tips and info! love it 😀

Jurmala is the nicest sea side town I’ve ever visited in Europe. First beach in Europe I’ve seen with trees on the shore line and not hotels. I was impressed with Riga, great architecture. And yes it’s true what they say about the women in Riga! Daugavpils has a large and modern looking Irish pub which is cool. Not everyone speaks English who serves but they call someone who does to come over. Hesburger is great (Latvian McDonalds) you can ask for a Hesburger and they reply in English “is that a meal or on its own” 🙂 latgola hotel is very nice. Off licence underneath hotel is huge and sells very cheap whiskey. Aglona has a museum on old traditional Latvian food. They serve virtually neat vodka for free. Aglona has a beautiful Catholic Church. There is a small WW2 museum near hear. It’s small but very, very authentic. Preiļi Dolls museum is fun. Amazing dolls and they have costumes where you can dress up In costumes and take photos.

Hi, i i am from Latvia, so if you have any kind of questions, you can ask them to me and illI answer!

Riga is one of the most beautiful cities in the Lativa. If you go there, you can choose from different local transportation modes around here. You can always use Riga Executive the taxi or the bus. According to my experience, I find their service very good.

I liked the part about Lido, as a Latvian i can confirm that we mostly go to their chains for lunch and its a great place for enjoying classic Latvian food. Kudos on the great article ! 🙂

I would absolutely love to visit Latvia, even in the winter time. The people seem so friendly and and I would love to challenge myself with learning the language! The way David writes these blogs you can tell he’s passionate about travel and has a heart for others around the world, which is truly a God given gift. I loved this blog entry!

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• 10 Enticing Places To Visit In Latvia For All Avid Adventurers!

11 Apr 2023

Latvia is a country that is located on the Baltic Sea. It has a beautiful landscape because it has wide beaches and beautiful natural things. This attracts tourists from all over the world. Riga is the capital of Latvia and this place is noted for its notable wooden architecture. The museums, churches and other historical places are the best places that must be viewed. There is a big Central market that is quite renowned in the whole country. People from all over the world come here to visit this market. People also enjoy the tasty food and music of this place. In short, there are ample things to see in this country. There are also some local crafts that must be purchased from this country. There are many places to visit in Latvia.

10 Best Places To Visit In Latvia

Check out the list of best places to visit in Latvia and do explore these places so that you can have an enticing vacation in the country. Keep scrolling down and read along!

• Old City Riga
• Kemeri National Park
• Riga Motor Museum
• Dzintari Forest Park
• Ventspils Beach
• Jugenda Stila Nami
• Zanis Lipke Memorial
• Veranes Garden
• Venta Rapid Waterfall

1. Old City Riga

Image Source

The streets of the city are a mixture of early architecture. There are many historic sites of the 13th century that must be explored by the visitors. The St. Peter's Church is the most remarkable place in this country. The streets are well maintained and thus tourists can spend a good time in this place. Riga is the capital and one of the best places to visit in Latvia .

Location: Kungu Iela 3 Riga, Riga 1050, Latvia

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2. Kemeri National Park

This National Park is the home of ample wild animals. There are ample green trees in the whole area. It can be a perfect day trip for the visitors. If you come to this place, then you can easily watch the sunrise. It would be an awesome experience. It is a vast area of natural beauty and diversity. The park is said to have the longest area. Thus, this place has great significance. This place is included as one of the best places to visit in Latvia .

Location: Meza Maja, Jurmala 2012, Latvia

3. Riga Motor Museum

This is a very important place and it was opened on 2nd July 2016. This is the place where you can visit various types of motor vehicles. This is an authentic place to get through a wide variety of vehicles. In fact, you will really feel very comfortable and relaxed in this place. There is museum café, gift shop and other places that must be noticed here. You can spend quality time in this place. It is counted as one of the great places to visit in Riga Latvia .

Location: Sergeja Eizensteina Iela 8, Riga 1079, Latvia Timings: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Suggested Read: 11 Fascinating Things To Do In Slovenia On Your Trip To Europe

4. Dzintari Forest Park

A beautiful place where one can spend some quality time all alone. There is a big playground where children of all age groups can send good time. The park remains open all through the year. A big parking space is there and nearly 2000 cars can be parked at a time. A panoramic tower was opened in the year 2010. It is a great place to see things. Apart from this, the whole ambiance of the place is simply mind-blowing.

Location: Meza prospekts, Jurmala 2015, Latvia Timings: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

5. Ventspils Beach

This is a beautiful wide and sandy beach where people can spend quality time with friends and relatives. This is the place where you can carry out various types of outdoor activities. It is a great tourist place and a cow saddle can be noticed here. The water at this beach is crystal clear. It is one of the cleanest beaches in Latvia . It can be easily reached by walking from the main town. It is a top place to visit in Latvia .

Location: Ventspils, Latvia

Suggested Read: 15 Offbeat Destinations In Europe That Are Straight Out Of Fairy Tales

6. Jugenda Stila Nami

It is a great place that has ample places to be viewed. There are many shops and stores throughout the city. It has been minutely observed that the commercial houses of this city have beautiful architecture and this attracts people from all over the world. Most of the beautiful buildings are found on Elizabeth Street and Albert Street. So you will really like the whole tour of the place. The architecture is mind-blowing and cannot be expressed in words. They are as usual till date as it was noticed during the construction period. This reveals the quality work and service that was given by the laborers.

Location: Riga, Latvia

7. Zanis Lipke Memorial

It is a beautiful building and also a very interesting venue for the tourists. There is a memorial inside this museum. Most of the school bring their kids to this place. It is a must visit place in Riga. Great care has been taken to preserve the memorial. A one hour trip to this place can be an ideal one. The beautiful has good fixtures and types of furniture.

Location: Mazais Balasta dambis 8, Riga 1048, Latvia Timings: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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8. Veranes Garden

It is a very big garden that has complete greenery in the entire place. It is also the home many beautiful birds. So you can sit here quietly and peacefully. You will highly enjoy the night atmosphere. This beautiful park in the city is a great tourist attraction. You can spend a good time in this place. There are big benches that are mainly preferred for sitting. It is a crowd-free place. There is a boating facility that is available for the visitors of the park.

Location: Terbatas iela 2D, Riga 1050, Latvia

9. Mezaparks

It can be a great day outing away from the hustle and bustle of the city. During autumn this place is said to be a perfect place for walking. You can walk here freely and enjoy the natural beauty. Even the kids can sit here and enjoy nature very closely. The place is very quiet and simple. There are big trees that surround the whole area. Many people prefer it to be the best place for jogging.

Location: Mezaparks, Riga 1014, Latvia

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10. Venta Rapid Waterfall

Both the sunrise and sunset in this place can be a beautiful view. If you are really wondering to experience something different then this place is the best option. If you arrive here at the right time, then you may see fisherman catching fishes. It will really provide a very good experience for you. It is said to be the widest waterfall in entire Europe . Sometimes fisherman also hangs nets to catch fish. So don’t miss this amazing experience. It must be visited during the trip to Latvia.

Location: Venta River, Kuldiga 3301, Latvia

Further Read: Latvia Nightlife: 10 Places To Party Hard In Twinkling Lights In The Land Of Blue Lakes

Latvia is a place that is full of natural beauty and places. In order to explore these beauties, you must stay here for some period. If you miss one then you will really regret. There is good connectivity throughout the country so communication will not matter at all. Most of the people usually plan to come to this place for spending vacations. There are many hotels and resorts that are available all along the city. You can choose the one that suits your budget and criteria. Most of the hotels are of a good standard and the staffs are very cordial. So, get packed and book your international trip right away!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Latvia

What is famous in Latvia?

The Venta Rapid waterfall in Latvia is the widest waterfall in all of Europe. People from all across the world come to see this wonder in monsoon season when it’s full and gurgling. The waterfall is about 110m wide and 2m high.

How safe is Latvia for tourists?

Latvia is a relatively safe country for travelers. The rate of crime is quite low and even petty thefts are also not too common.

What is there to do in Latvia in the winter?

Latvia is a beautiful nation in the Baltic region and has a lot of activities for you to enjoy all year round. However, here are a few things that you can do during winter: – Ice Skating – Cross country skiing – Windsurfing on ice – Exploring the Christmas markets – Witness the sea ice formations – Snowbiking – Dong Sledging

What’s the capital of Latvia?

The capital of Latvia is Riga. It is a beautiful city located on the Daugava River, on the shores of the Baltic Sea’s southern shores

What can you do in Latvia?

Latvia is one of the least explored countries in Europe, however, is one of the most beautiful one. Here are some of the amazing things you can do in LAtvia when you’re there: – Visit the Town Hall Square – Visit the Open Air Museum in Ventspils – Explore the streets of Jauniela – Visit the Naval Port Prison – Explore the old town of Riga – Visit the old Sigulda Castle

What language do they speak in Latvia?

Although the official and the most common language spoken in Latvia is Latvian, Russian is also commonly spoken. English is also spoken by many people, along with other native languages.

Is Latvia part of Russia?

Till the end of the 18th century Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia the three Baltic countries have been a part of the Russian empire. However, since the Russian revolution in 1917, the countries gained independence from the former USSR.

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Best attractions in Latvia: Top 25

Latvia can rightly be called the heart of the Baltics, because it brings together all the best that this region can boast. The ancient architecture of the cities borders with the modesty and charm of the villages, modern multi-storey business centers neighbor centuries-old castles and palaces, churches and cathedrals keeping the mysteries of the past. There are also a lot of health centers, where you can effectively strengthen your organism with the help of special procedures. The locals are polite and courteous in European way, but very hospitable and devoted to centuries-old traditions. If you are coming here for the first time and don’t know what to see in Latvia, we have compiled a list of the most interesting sights in Latvia especially for you. Familiarize yourself with them and be sure to include these places in your travel itinerary to this country.

What to see first in Latvia

When searching for the perfect tourist itinerary, don’t forget that you’ll need guides in Latvia , who can take care of the information and organization of the tour. In case you explore the sights on your own, be sure to check what hours they are open to tourists and how much the entrance costs.

1. The House of Blackheads

The House of Blackheads in Riga is one of the main symbols of the Latvian capital and Latvian landmarks. It regularly hosts cultural events, concerts, exhibitions and excursions. Also, the house has temporarily become the residence of the Latvian president, in connection with the renovation of the Riga Castle.

The foundation of the House of Blackheads dates back to 1334. Various meetings and events of Riga’s societies have been held here since its foundation. By the end of the 15th century, the building was rented to the Blackheads Society, after which it was later named.

Who were the Blackheads? They were a brotherhood of young merchants under the patronage of St George, but later the brotherhood’s patron was Saint Maurice, whose symbol in the form of a black head was depicted on the brotherhood’s coat of arms.

During the Second World War, the House of Blackheads was significantly damaged, and in 1999 it was rebuilt almost from scratch. These days it is home to a museum and a concert hall, which often hosts classical music concerts.

What is worth seeing when you visit the House of Chernogolovs?

• The luxurious facade of the building combines the values of different styles from different eras;
• Inside, in the representative rooms, luxurious interior items such as crystal chandeliers, painted ceilings, portraits of rulers in gilded carved frames, the brotherhood’s coat of arms, and colorful stained-glass windows attract attention;
• In the museum you can see various props of the fraternity representatives - snuff boxes, paintings, silverware and ceramics;
• Visiting ceremonies at the House of Blackheads, you can see how the entire interior comes to life during the festivities, and how a special aura of secular celebration is created here.

Official website: https://www.melngalvjunams.lv

Latvia | Save on hotel reservations

2. rundale palace - museum (zemgale region).

An outstanding architectural monument - the Rundale Palace, which was a joint creation of the outstanding architect Rastrelli , sculptor Graff and Italian artists Zucchi and Martini, is an important cultural heritage and a valuable landmark in Latvia. This architectural masterpiece is located in the heart of the country, in the cultural and historical region of Zemgale.

The whole palace complex occupies a huge territory of more than 60 hectares, the main part of which is occupied by parks - the hunting and French parks. There are also a lot of things to see around the complex in Latvia - the nature there is very picturesque, and Bauska Nature Park is another great sight in the vicinity.

Rundale Palace has 138 rooms on two floors, but unfortunately the interior has not survived - the decoration was not spared by the devastation and war. That is why the exhibits that are presented in the palace museum were purchased and brought from other museums. The best Latvian and Russian specialists carried out the restoration work. The interior furnishings, wallpaper, chandeliers, furniture and utensils were recreated according to sketches and historical records. Now the castle, saved at the cost of painstaking work, welcomes many visitors.

In addition to the castle itself, the park area deserves no less attention. Thus, the French garden was created in the 18th century, and since then, its design has never changed. The park is a classic example of the art of landscape gardening in Europe. Nowadays, periodically costume shows are held here, and fireworks are organized.

Official website: https://rundale.net

The resort city of Jurmala is the real gem of Latvia on the coast of the Gulf of Riga. The first resort villages began to form here in the 18th century, and in the 19th century most of the districts of the city acquired the status of a resort. For more than two centuries, Jurmala has remained a place of great recreation, and you’re sure to find something to see in Latvia, if you come to this unusually beautiful city.

The list of attractions in Latvia in Jurmala includes more than 400 buildings of various orientations. A characteristic architectural feature of the buildings are facades, lavishly decorated with lace carvings on wood. The choice of attractions is wide and the list could be completed endlessly.

• Open-air museum - reflects the life of Latvian village, where a few centuries ago there were only shabby fishing shacks and boats on the territory of the present buildings.
• Opened in 1999, the Museum of Prison History was created to mark the 80th anniversary of the country’s prison system. Today it has on display dummy prisoners, hangmen, a simulator of a solitary confinement pit, and various prison props.
• The Aspazija and Rainis Museum, built in 1903, has a lot of personal belongings of the famous Latvian poetess Elza Rozenberg, as well as various furniture and peculiar household items of the past centuries.
• The Livu water park is one of the largest water parks in Europe, it has 3 levels and a 25-meter high tower. Its design is made in the Caribbean style, and visitors feel like pirates on an ancient ship.
• Theater of Luminous Paintings - presents paintings of the famous artist Ermolaev in two forms: daytime and night. The transformation of the daytime view of the picture at night is a fascinating spectacle.
• The motor ship Jurmala is the oldest motor ship that used to be the only way to get to Riga. Today you can take a sightseeing cruise from Riga to Jurmala on it.

4. Gauja National Park (Gauja River Valley)

To visit some of Latvia’s sights, it is advisable to allocate, perhaps, at once a multi-day trip. Such places include Gauja National Park, spread out in the valley of the river Gauja for more than 900 square kilometers, so you can find something to see in Latvia.

It is the largest park-reserve in Latvia, which is characterized by a variety of landscapes, numerous springs, cliffs, caves, rocks, outcrops of polychrome sandstone, unique natural and cultural monuments.

In total, in the Gauja National Park there are more than 500 different attractions, including ancient settlements, castles, churches, mills, estates, and many other archaeological, architectural and historical monuments.

For a family vacation, we can recommend places such as:

• Vienkochu Park - a beautiful place, the purpose of which is to promote ancient crafts, here you can try your hand at woodworking;
• Ligatne Nature Trails - present an opportunity to explore landscapes characteristic of ancient Gauja, here you can observe many wild animals characteristic of Latvian nature;
• cableway from Sigulda to Krimulda - the only cableway in Latvia that allows you to see the local surroundings from dizzying heights and learn a lot about the historical heritage of these two small Latvian towns.

For lovers of outdoor activities, there are activities that will really take your breath away, such as a vertical wind tunnel near Sigulda, a cable car jump, the Sigulda bobsleigh track, and numerous adventure parks.

Official site: https://www.entergauja.com

5. City of Kuldiga

In the heart of the historical Kurzeme region, on the Venta River, sits the beautiful provincial town of Kuldiga. It is rightly considered one of the most picturesque cities in Latvia, because here, in a small area, you can find a lot of amazing sights of Latvia, such as a flying fish, Europe’s largest waterfall, a cave labyrinth and ancient palaces.

Today it is hard to imagine that a few centuries ago this city was the most important trading post, ships were built here, grapes were grown, wine from which was even supplied to neighboring countries.

What to visit in Latvia, if you have come or are passing through the town of Kuldiga?

• Kuldiga Castle is the first castle in Kuldiga, the construction of which was completed in 1245. The fortress was placed in a very beautiful place by a waterfall, and in less than a hundred years, the city of Kuldiga grew around the castle. The fortress is in a dilapidated state - the medieval wars and time have played their part. But around the ruins of the fortress today stretches an attractive city park.
• One of the most pleasant and fun summer activities in Kuldiga is swimming under the Ventas Rumba waterfall. Everyone can swim under the jets of the waterfall, the more so because on the right bank of the Ventas River there are special pools for this purpose.
• During the season from April to May in Kuldiga on the Ventas River you can see an amazing sight - flying fish. Numerous fish swim upstream when they come to spawn, emerge from the river up to 2.5 meters high and try to take the Ventas Rumba waterfall as a barrier.
• The Kuldiga City Museum has thousands of unique exhibits that tell the story of Kuldiga’s rich historical past.

6. Turaida Castle (Sigulda)

Just 50 kilometers from the Latvian capital is a beautiful provincial town, Sigulda. Its calling card is the venerable landmark of Latvia - Turaida Castle from the 13th century. Once upon a time in the Middle Ages, it was the seat of the bishop, was the seat of the Livonian Order and even housed a garrison of Swedish soldiers. Today the fortress keeps the imprint of antiquity, so nowadays the castle has acquired the status of a museum complex, and on its territory there is a museum-reserve.

The museum complex includes not only the castle but also a lot of surrounding historical buildings - there are 37 such structures. The castle itself was founded in 1214 by the bishop of Riga on the right bank of the Gauja. Unfortunately, the fortress has not retained its original appearance from those times, so it has gone through a lot of reconstruction, but nevertheless has not lost its appearance. Numerous legends about the castle and its inhabitants have survived, as well as the name of the castle, which means “Garden of God”.

The key and the oldest element of the castle is the main tower. Now on its upper level there is an observation deck, and on the lower level there is a museum exhibit. In addition to the tower, exhibitions are held in the southern and western corps of the castle. To this day on the territory of the museum-reserve there are still archaeological excavations, and new findings are being discovered, which subsequently enrich the museum’s collection.

Today Turaida Castle has become a popular tourist attraction - along with excursions, there are regularly organized festivals, exhibitions, concerts of classical and modern music.

Official website: https://www.turaida-muzejs.lv

7. Mitava Palace (Jelgava)

On a flat island between the Lielupe River and its tributaries, the Mitava (Jelgava) Palace, the most important historical landmark in Latvia, was built in 1738 to a design by architect Rastrelli. The initiator of the construction was the Duke of Courland Biron .

Jelgava Palace is currently the largest baroque palace in the Baltics. The palace was built in several stages and lasted several decades.

• Beforehand, in 1737 the territory was cleared for construction - the 14th century palace of the Livonian Order was blown up.
• In 1740, construction was suspended due to the arrest and exile of the Duke. At that time the palace had not yet been roofed.
• In 1763, after a pardon from Biron and his return from exile, construction of the palace resumed.
• In 1772, the Duke finally moved into his residence, but before his death, he did not managed to live there for six months.
• After the Duchy was annexed to Russia, the palace changed owners more than once.
• In 1918 the palace was completely destroyed by the Russian Bermondt-Avalov troops, and in 1944 it was even more ruined during the Second World War.
• The palace now houses a museum where you can see the family tombs of the Dukes of Courland and Zemgale. There is practically no information about the original interiors. Today the palace is home to the Latvian University of Agriculture.

8. Bauska Castle (Bauska)

Bauska is a town in central Latvia, in the Zemgale region. Founded back in the 15th century by German knights, today Bauska is rich in historical monuments and keeps the events of centuries-old history, so you will surely find something to visit in Latvia if you find yourself in this town. For example, confirmation of this is the Bauska Castle, built at the confluence of the Musa and Memsele rivers for the Knights of the Livonian Order.

The fortress was surrounded by a system of fortifications, and later parade halls and living quarters were erected.

Soon after the construction of the castle, a fishermen’s and craftsmen’s settlement was formed around the castle, which later became the city of Bauska.

The castle was owned by the Livonian Order until 1561 when it began changing owners regularly, the Ducal court and chancellery moved in.

In 1625 the castle was seized by the Swedes and at the beginning of the 18th century it was blown up by order of the Russian Emperor Peter I.

The castle was remembered again only in the 20th century, when in 1970 the preserved ruins were subjected to a long and thorough restoration, after which a museum was opened in its walls. To entice visitors to the castle, various events, concerts and festivals are regularly held on its grounds.

The castle complex includes the ducal palace, which houses the exhibition, as well as the ruins of the Livonian Order castle with an observation tower. Court life of the Middle Ages, celebrations and everyday life, dressing, habits and customs - all the past is reflected in Bauska Castle very clearly and realistically.

Official website: https://www.bauskaspils.lv

9. Dinaburg Castle

The beginning of the Latvian city that changed its name several times (Dinaburg, Nevgin, Dvinsk, Borisoglebsk, Daugavpils) was Dinaburg Castle, built in 1275 by order of Ernest Ratzeburg, Master of the Livonian Order.

This landmark of Latvia had a difficult history - since the construction of the castle there have been many battles, and it constantly passed into the hands of the Lithuanian, Polish and Russian authorities.

• In 1772 Dinaburgskaya fortress passed to Russia, and the construction of the castle began. The present appearance of the castle is the fourth in the history of Dinaburg.
• In 1810, active construction of protective structures began here, the height of protective ramparts reached 11 meters. The fortification work was performed so well that even a three-day siege by Napoleon’s troops did not allow the fortress to be captured.
• Since 1813, the construction of the fortress was continued - there were built barracks, houses, four gates.
• In 1827, the hospital for five hundred men was completed.

In general, the improvement of fortifications continued until 1878, but by the end of the 19th century the fortress lost its defensive purpose and acquired the status of a fortress-storage depot, which housed workshops for the production and storage of shells and gunpowder.

After World War II, in 1947, an aviation school began operating here. The territory of the fortress began to be gradually cleaned up, sports grounds were equipped, the landscaping of the territory took place.

Today Dinaburg Fortress is an example of fortification art. In spite of the numerous tests of time, some forts and ramparts remained intact. In the course of time the authorities of Daugavpils hope to turn this complex into a modern cultural center.

10. Ķemeri National Park (Jurmala)

In the central region of Latvia - Zemgale, not far from the well-known Jurmala, is located the Ķemeri National Park. The area of the park is enormous - more than 38 thousand hectares, and these areas are occupied by forests and swamps, under which one of the layers of soil formed sulfurated mineral water. This place is famous for very rich vegetation and fauna - for example, there are about 900 ferns, more than 2,200 species of mosses, a hundred and fifty lichens, more than 500 species of mushrooms. A quarter of plants growing in the park are listed in the Red Book of Latvia.

In the reserve there are particularly favorable conditions for the habitation of various birds, which are monitored and for this purpose there are special towers.

The establishment of a health resort in the Ķemeri Park was due to the use of the salubrious hydrogen sulphide springs. Due to the swampy terrain, the springs were inaccessible for a long time and there were no roads built to them. However, after the accession of part of the park to the Russian Empire in 1783, Kemeri began to develop intensively as a resort.

• In 1801, academician Lovitz made a chemical analysis of the mineral waters from the sulfurous springs. The study showed that the spring waters have truly miraculous healing properties.
• Finally, the year 1838 is considered the year of founding the spa, and the reason for that is the fact that the first bathing house was founded on the territory of Ķemeri, as well as the administration of the spa.
• In 1851-61 a park was laid out here and a whole spa system was created.
• In the 1930s the first sanatorium was founded in the park, where mineral water and mud were treated, and this time is considered the beginning of the prosperity of Ķemeri.
• After the hard years of World War II came the second heyday of the spa, when the sanatorium began to fill up every year with a huge number of people and the developed infrastructure of the park was created.

Attractions in Latvia: what else to visit while in Latvia

Tourists discover the country from different angles, and in order to form a complete image, we recommend excursions in Latvia to places from the list below. You will find both natural wonders and historical and architectural monuments. Use your chance to have a wonderful holiday here, even if you only have a couple of days to spare.

11. Old Riga

In the heart of the Latvian capital is its historic part - Old Riga. If you happen to visit this remarkable place, you’ll definitely find something to see in Latvia - on a comparatively small territory Riga’s main attractions are concentrated here. Almost the entire Old Town of Riga represents important sites of interest in Latvia, and the through traffic on the streets of this area is closed. Therefore, you can take a leisurely stroll here, exploring the architectural monuments and feeling the atmosphere of antiquity.

However you plan to get to know Riga, it is worthwhile to start with Old Riga. Entering its narrow cobblestone streets one feels as if he/she is transported back in time a few centuries: strict Gothic cathedrals and charming medieval houses, old yards, numerous museums, coffee houses with amazingly delicious pastries - all of this conveys a unique flavor of the Middle Ages.

When choosing a list of places of interest of the Old Riga, you should pay special attention to the following ones:

• The 13th-century Riga Castle on the bank of the Daugava River;
• The Dome Cathedral with one of the largest organs in the world;
• Peter’s Tower - Riga’s calling card and one of its main church buildings;
• Town Hall Square - the main square of the city, which has become a venue for numerous city events;
• Swedish Gate - the only gate in the city’s fortress wall, which has preserved its original appearance to this day;
• The Large and Small Guilds - buildings which housed unions of like-minded citizens united by occupation;
• The House of the Blackheads, a building owned by the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, an association of young foreign merchants.

12. Aglona Basilica

Aglona Basilica is a major shrine and landmark of international importance in Latvia. It is located in the east of Latvia, 40 km from Daugavpils.

The first mention of Aglona settlement dates back to 1236. And in 1697 the local landlords approached the bishop with a request to build a monastery and a school in the village. Later, the first basilica of wood was built there and a male and a female monastery were established.

• In 1768, the locals petitioned again, this time for the construction of a capital church, and by 1789, a stone baroque basilica had grown in place of the wooden one, and a monastery building was erected. Later, when the curative properties of the local springs were discovered, bureaus were erected here in 1824 and a hospital was organized.
• In 1980, Pope John Paul II bestowed on the basilica the title of little basilica, a special status for a Catholic church, granting it many privileges.
• In 1989, the tradition of pilgrimages to the Aglona Basilica on the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was renewed.
• In 1993, Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass at the Basilica of Aglona with the participation of about 400 thousand pilgrims.
• Today, every year on the 15th of August pilgrims from the Baltic States and Russia come to Aglona and masses are celebrated in the presence of many high-ranking state officials, Roman priests and heads of other churches of Latvia.

13. Ethnographic Open-Air Museum (Riga)

One of Europe’s largest museums is located in Latvia, just a half-hour drive from its capital city. The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum is a must-see in Latvia, if your route passes through Riga. Here on a vast territory of 90 hectares you can see old buildings from the 17th and 20th centuries. Houses, household outbuildings, temples, mills, and even entire households with household items from that time. All of the buildings were carefully removed from various parts of Latvia and then erected again on the territory of the museum.

If you compare the Latvian Ethnographic Museum with other museums of this type, this museum is unique in its own way - its exposition was already formed in the early 20th century. This is a wonderful place where you can feel the spirit of ancient times and literally go on a journey through the milestones of Latvian history:

• to see the peculiarities, similarities and differences of the life of Latvians in different centuries;
• Learn what traditions Latvians have kept for centuries, how they used to take baths or decorate their courtyards, celebrate holidays or go about their everyday lives;
• learn how Russian Old Believers lived in such Latvian regions as Latgale and Kurzeme;
• visit ancient churches of different Latvian denominations;
• visit the museum vault with its huge archive;
• walk through the yards of Latvian peasants and craftsmen, study their everyday objects, typical for a particular historical period.

Official site: https://brivdabasmuzejs.lv

14. Botanical Garden (Riga)

The Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia, founded in 1922, is a “green” landmark in Latvia, a ten-minute drive from the center of Riga. For many years since the founding of the garden is regularly updated with new species of plants from around the world - in total there are about 6 thousand plants on the territory of the park of 15 hectares. Today the botanical garden has become a favorite place for walks and rest - here you can leisurely walk through the green alleys, visit many greenhouses and just enjoy the nature in the heart of the capital city. Both professional gardeners and ordinary people will find here a lot of new and interesting.

• Among the greenhouses, the palm greenhouse is considered the main one, where you can explore subtropical plants.
• In the orangery succulents are plants that have adapted to life in the desert - there are about 700, half of them - cacti.
• Azalea greenhouse presents an exhibition of 124 species of azaleas - evergreen shrubs obtained by staged crossing.
• Ornamental and ecological exposition, including 7 gardens - rock garden, phlox, heather, rhododendron, dahlia, rose and lily garden.
• A small area of approximately 100 square metres is occupied by man-made swamps, where cranberries, andromedias and other swampy plants characteristic of Latvia grow.
• Every year in mid-July a gardening festival is held in the park, to which everyone is invited - from professional breeders to ordinary amateur gardeners.

Official website: https://www.botanika.lu.lv

15. Latvian National Museum of Art (Riga)

In the heart of Riga, namely in its boulevard ring, there is a famous cultural landmark of Latvia - the Latvian National Museum of Art, which has become the largest repository of art in the country. The Museum of Art itself is an impressive architectural monument of national importance. This is the first building in the Baltics, built specifically to house a museum. The building was founded in 1905, designed by architect Wilhelm Neumann, and its facade is an ensemble of Baroque and Classicist styles.

The museum’s collection consists of over 52 thousand items - works of sculptors and artists from the Baltic states and Russia. Not long ago, the museum went through a major renovation and in 2016 opened with a new look, while retaining the monumental nature of the old building.

What can be seen in the museum today?

• The exhibition of Latvian art from the 19th and 20th centuries presents the history of Latvian art over the past two centuries.
• In the new exhibition hall, you can see temporary exhibitions on topics that are relevant today.
• There are two terraces on the roof of the museum that offer a bird’s eye view of Riga’s surroundings.
• Visitors will appreciate the modernized environment where you can arrange a guided tour without a guide - by downloading a special application to your smartphone, you will be guided through an interactive electronic guide.

Official site: https://www.lnmm.lv

16. Daugavpils Fortress (Daugavpils)

An important role in the portrait of the country is played by historical and architectural attractions in Latvia, the presentation of which will not go without the ancient historical monument in the city of Daugavpils - the last bastion-type fortress in Europe. The fortress is situated on the territory of 150 hectares on both sides of the Daugava River, and its structure resembles a military town layout, with a square in the middle, around which there are a number of administrative, household and barracks buildings. Some of the buildings were built in Empire style, the other part was decorated in Gothic style. Today the castle houses a contemporary art center with works by many Latvian and foreign artists as well as an art center with paintings, drawings, photographs and ceramics.

Official website: https://dinaburgascietoksnis.lcb.lv

17. Dome Cathedral (Riga)

In the heart of the country on the shores of the Baltic Sea, the city of Riga has a recognizable symbol of the capital, the Riga Dome Cathedral. The largest cathedral in Latvia, it is one of the country’s leading spiritual centers, and concerts of sacred and organ music are held here. In addition to the cathedral, the architectural ensemble includes the Dome Monastery, the oldest maritime museum in the city, and the Gallery of the Cross. The origins of the majestic building go back to 1211, when the first stone was laid - at that time the temple was to be a symbol of success in the conquest of Livonia. The interior design of the cathedral, which you can see now, is the result of restoration works of the 19th century: rather austere and ascetic Gothic interior is executed in white tones, only long and narrow windows are decorated with colorful stained glass, and in some places luxury elements of woodcarving complement the decoration.

Official website: https://www.doms.lv

18. St. Peter’s Church (Riga)

In search of what to see in Latvia in winter, for an active holiday you can go to the ski resorts of Sigulda or Madonna, or you can visit the beautiful Riga in winter, with its medieval castles and other ancient buildings. One of such structures is the cult church of St. Peter, which stands out against the background of city panoramas with a high spire topped with a rooster figure. Today it is a functioning Lutheran church in which masses are regularly held and on its recognizable spire, at a height of 71 meters, there is an observation deck with a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. The date of the church’s construction is considered to be 1209, when it became the main temple for the privileged of feudal society. The pink brick interior halls have austere decoration with laconic carved wood decor elements and ancient epitaphs.

Official website: https://peterbaznica.riga.lv

19. Waterfall on the Vente river (Kuldiga)

Although Latvia can not boast the same mighty waterfalls as Niagara or Iguassu, the territory of the country has the widest Venta waterfall in Europe. Its width is about 110 meters, and during the high water it reaches 280 meters, although the height is quite small - from 1.6 to 2.2 meters across the entire width. Due to a particular form of rapids, from which the water falls, the waterfall has an amazing zigzag line. Regularly, at certain times in the fall and spring, there is a spectacular spectacle - spawning fish try to jump over the river rapids, and several centuries ago this feature was used for fishing. Since then, Kuldiga has been known as a town where fish are caught right up in the air - for example, during the spawning period, you can catch 80 to 100 salmon per day.

20. Riga Castle (Riga)

The most important cultural attractions in Latvia are concentrated in its capital city, and one of them is the Riga Castle, which is now the official residence of the Latvian president. It is located in the Old Town of Riga, on the bank of the Daugava River. The beginning of the history of this large-scale castle goes back to the times of confrontation between the inhabitants of Riga and the Livonian Order in the 14th century, when the knights of the Order decided to build a suburban fortress. It was quite impressive, but another conflict in the 15th century literally wiped it off the face of the earth. The building was fully restored, and over the centuries it was repeatedly rebuilt and supplemented with the arrival of new authorities, but invariably remained the core of political life. Now the old castle is also a tourist attraction - you can visit the National History Museum in it.

Official site: https://www.president.lv

21. Riga TV Tower (Riga)

Of course, the sights of Riga are not without the highest of the Baltic buildings - the 369-meter Riga TV Tower. Construction of the tower began back in Soviet times, in 1980, and lasted about 10 years. Reinforced concrete was replaced by an innovative material for those times - steel plates that provided the structure with unprecedented strength and according to calculations, the structural strength reserve of the building is designed for 2.5 centuries! On the 100-meter level there is the first observation deck, on the 134-meter level - the second one. The TV tower has a very peculiar appearance - it is a construction of 3 towers and a spire. There are two inclined rail elevators in its supports, as well as an ordinary elevator connecting the observation deck with the lower technical levels.

22. Birini Manor (Birini Village)

Not far from Sigulda, on a small hill near the mirror-like Lake Birini, rises an elegant castle from 1860 that attracts attention with its combination of gentle shades of pink and white and elegant turrets. Just like the castle, the nature itself is magnificent, framing this creation - it is a wonderful park with lakes and plenty of various greenery. The overall architectural design of the building is neo-Gothic though the interiors are decorated in romantic Neo-Renaissance style. The manor-house was named after the famous knight Johann Biring who received the manor from the king for his heroic deeds in the 13th century and later changed its owners several times. Today, guests of the manor house are offered a number of opportunities - hotel vacations, celebrations, baths, horseback rides, and boat rides on the lake.

Official website: https://www.birinupils.lv

23. Freedom Monument (Riga)

Traveling through the Baltics, you can cover the sights of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in one trip - thankfully, the very small distances allow for such a plan. You should just take the Tallinn-Riga freeway, along which you can find a variety of interesting places. Once in Riga, you can visit one of the key objects in the heart of the Latvian capital - the Freedom Monument. This symbol of Latvian independence is a tribute to all those who gave their lives for their country during the civil war. The 42-meter stele is topped by a 9-meter sculpture of Freedom, a young woman holding three stars symbolizing three cultural and historical regions of Latvia. The foot of the monument is decorated with several bas-reliefs presenting historical scenes and the most important human values of society.

24. Daugavas loki (Daugava River) Nature Park

The tourist map of Latvia abounds with interesting objects - for example, in the southeastern part of the country, on both sides of the Daugava River there is a picturesque place - Daugavas loki Nature Park. Here the Daugava River has numerous bends, creating suitable conditions for water tourism - this point is not neglected, so there are a number of boat and raft rentals along the river, as well as excellent resting places. In addition, the park holds unique historical monuments - the fact is that the river has long served as the basis for the development of the surrounding areas, and on its banks were built castles and formed entire settlements. Therefore, more than 20 archaeological sites can be seen in the park today, such as Vecpils hillfort, Vasargalish tower, Markovo and Vecrāti hillfort, Rosalis manor castle and many others.

25. Karosta Prison Museum (Liepaja)

In the Latvian city of Liepāja there is an unusual historical museum of extreme interest to many tourists. The Karosta Prison, originally a hospital, was built in 1900. This site is unique in that it is the only prison in Europe that is open for guided tours. It is notorious for horrific and at times bloody events, such as mass shootings during the totalitarian regimes. There are no less gloomy accounts, with locals claiming that mystical stories have taken place within its walls, and that haunted spirits roam its corridors. For those who wish to dilute the heavy impressions of what they have seen, there is something to see on the way to Liepaja: for example, a very spectacular picture - snow-white roadside windmills in the middle of the plains, against the background of the bottomless Latvian sky. While in Latvia, consider visiting a country known for its medieval architecture and delicious beer - the Czech Republic. Read about Czech sights and get inspired with new ideas for traveling around Europe!

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Latvia: A place worth traveling to

Latvia – a country in the Baltic region of Europe – may be small, but its pristine Baltic sea coastline and traditions tend to surpass even more iconic destinations of Europe. It has become a real hidden gem for travelers who strive to look past Europe's larger and more well-visited countries in search of lesser-known beauty and historical charm. But exactly what is it that makes Latvia so special?

When asked what they love about their country the most, Latvians will proudly and loudly say: "Nature, of course!” Nature is what binds Latvian people to their land and culture, with its deep roots in ancient celebratory traditions.

Travelers who come to Latvia in June are privileged to witness a truly unique summer solstice celebration – Līgo or "Jāņi," as the locals tend to call it. Traditions such as singing, dancing, feasting, and jumping over a bonfire are just some of the many activities that take place on the 23rd of June when Latvians of all ages gather to pull the ultimate all-nighter. Waiting for the sun to rise on the shortest summer night should absolutely be on your bucket list. 

Singing is another local tradition that tends to unite the typically introverted Latvian people both at home and abroad. The Latvian Song and Dance Festival takes place every five years and is an official part of the UNESCO Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It gathers around 50 000 choral singers, folk dancers and tens of thousands of viewers in the audience.

Whilst grand events and celebrations are a big part of Latvian culture, the soul of Latvian culture is much more commonplace. Whilst there are plenty of tourist spots, castles, museums, and architecture to be found in the capital Riga and beyond, it is the charm of everyday things that really embody the spirit of this small Baltic state. Start the day with a refreshing swim in the Baltic sea, a river, a lake, or a pond. Eat some delicious local breakfast – cottage cheese, rye bread with fresh vegetables from the local market, or homegrown by locals.

Though the Latvian countryside provides a wealth of sandy beaches, lush forests and open-air activities like festivals, foraging, or skiing during the wintertime, there’s plenty to talk about in town, too. Latvian cities, especially Riga, offer plenty of options for those who enjoy slow walks through the city streets, lively cultural scenes, fantastic cuisine, iconic art-nouveau architecture and Medieval buildings in Old Riga.

End your day in the city, tasting local craft beers and celebrating good times in one of the many hip pubs and culture spots with the locals. Or catch world-class performances at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet. Creativity and greatness run deep within Latvian culture, it is the birthplace of well-known people like Mark Rothko, Mikhail Barishnikov, Sergei Eisenstein, Mariss Jansons, Elina Garanca and many others.

Many visitors leave the country believing Latvia may be Europe's best-kept secret. Hidden adventures await those willing to wander off the well-beaten track, and Latvia has more than a handful of them to share. Within a single trip, you might be able to experience The quaint fishing villages of Kurzeme, the white sand beaches of Jurmala the blue lakes of Latgale, and of course, the lively cobbled streets of Riga.

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14 amazing things to do in latvia in 2024.

Latvia is a beautiful, small country nestled between Lithuania and Estonia . Before visiting, I have to say I didn’t know much about the county, or what to expect, but after spending 4 days road tripping through the country in Autumn with Tinggly , I can safely say, it’s a fantastic place to visit and absolutely bursting with things to do. 

Latvia is one of the three Baltic Nations located in the Northeast corner of mainland Europe. 

So, if you’re in seek of some inspiration on what to do in Latvia, then look no further as I take you through all the best things to do in Latvia, alongside some extra travel tips which will help make planning your Latvian itinerary a breeze! 

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Latvia? 

I actually think Latvia is probably a beautiful country all year around, but I have to suggest you visit in beautiful Autumn. The country is known for its famous Autumn colours which resemble Indian spices and I cannot begin to explain how beautiful the scenery is here. 

As you drive through the country you will constantly be greeted with beautiful views! 

We visited during the month of October and found it to be a pleasant temperature, and everything was relatively quieter which means no mass tourism (which we aren’t a big fan of). It felt like you had the whole place to yourself! 

But, that being said, I’ve also seen pictures of Latvia covered in snow and it looks amazing, so I can imagine winter is also a fabulous time to visit. And of course Summer brings with it sunshine and the chance to swim in the many wonderful lakes throughout the country. 

So basically, any time is a great time to visit Latvia. 

How long should you spend in Latvia? 

Bradley and I spent roughly around 4 days in Latvia and this involved roadtripping throughout the country from entering via Lithuania, to leaving for Estonia. This included a day in the beautiful capital, Riga.

I actually think we rushed it a little bit, so I would suggest a week if you want to see all the best attractions Latvia has to offer then opt for a 1 week stay.

But, we did get to see a lot within our time here and if you plan on just visiting Riga, I suggest you rent a car and venture outwards to see some of the amazing views and castles on offer. 

How to get to Latvia 

You can easily get to Latvia via flying to Riga! Flights leave from all of Europe and are relatively inexpensive. You should check Skyscanner for the best prices on the web. 

Or, you can do what Brad and I did and drive to Latvia. The freedom of having a car really gives you a chance to see all that this beautiful country has to offer. 

But, if you choose to fly, then I suggest you still rent a car for a couple of days to explore more of the country! 

You can also get ferries to Latvia from a number of countries, which is great if you want to take your own car. This includes Sweden and Germany!

14 top things to do in Latvia 

Okay, now it’s time for the part you came for, a list of the top things to do in Latvia. This list is based on everything we did in Latvia, and some things I included that we went to that were closed! 

1. Explore Rundale Palace 

Rundale Palace is located just over the border from Lithuania and it’s a magnificent castle with beautiful grounds. It’s 11 euro for an all-inclusive ticket that takes you through the castle and it’s French Garden.

I actually think the best time to visit this area is during the Spring or Summer because then you’ll get to experience all the amazing colours in the gardens. 

You can buy tickets ahead of time on their website here . And apparently it’s free entrance from June to September! 

TOUR: You can book a private group tour here which includes a tour of this palace and some other awesome castles in Latvia. Book it here.

2. Explore quaint coffee shops in Riga's Old Town 

Riga is the crown jewel of Latvia and everyone always flocks to the capital city. It’s no surprise why either, it’s easily one of Europe's prettiest cities !

Filled with cobbled streets, a beautiful river flowing through and a lovely atmosphere, I could spend days wandering through this city.

When brad and I visited, it was very quiet, and it was hard to believe we were in a capital city. 

We wandered around the Old Town and stopped at a local bakery and coffee shop. It was located down a cobbled street and the houses were painted in a variety of colours.

We sat outside with a cappuccino and hot chocolate and a couple of pastries and just enjoyed the wonderful atmosphere that Riga exudes. 

It’s not expensive either! 

3. Check out the unique House of Black Heads 

Another one of Riga's most popular attractions is the House of Black Heads.

Despite it's intriguing name, and before we visited, I really didn’t know what to expect. But it’s a beautiful piece of architecture and it’s actually home to a whole host of history.

Built in 1344, it’s super old too! You can take a tour of the inside, but it has to be a guided tour. Admission: €3 - 6 (tickets on sale until 17:00); guided tours €15.

4. Visit the important historical site of Salaspils Memorial

The Salaspils Memorial is situated outside of the Riga centre, but I think it’s an important place to visit.

The memorial is made up of a variety of large statues, representing different “feelings”. They are located where a once Nazi police prison and labour correctional camp was formed. The camp itself imprisoned Lithuanian, Estonia and Latvian civilians, military personal and transit prisoners.

There is lots of information explaining the nature of the camps, and all the people who died here and how. It’s a very tragic story, and it's a sad experience, but an important one. 

It’s free to enter. It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Latvia, and maybe not on every tourist “hot list”, but it’s an important site that deserves recognition. 

5. Wander through the Gauja National Park 

Latvia has a variety of beautiful national parks, but probably the most famous is the Gauja National Park. It’s a beautiful park, and even more beautiful when the trees turn shades of orange, red and yellow.

There are a variety of walks within this park to suit all ages so it’s a suitable spot for everyone. 

One of the great things to do in Latvia if you want to experience the wonderful outdoors! 

6. Visit the unique Gutmana Caves

This is definitely one of the most random things to do in Latvia. The Gutmana Caves are the widest and highest caves in all the Baltic Region. It’s the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia and it’s got a really interesting story behind it.

I won’t tell you it here, because that’ll ruin the story, but I will tell you it’s a tragic one and involves 2 star crossed lovers. 

It’s also free to enter the Gutmana Caves. 

7. Exhilarate yourself with a bobsleigh ride 

This is one of the things to do in Latvia that Brad and I arrived one day too late, as it had closed. But, we still got to check out the area and see the tracks. So, in Latvia, you can go on an exhilarating Bobsleigh ride down a racing track. 

This can be done in both Summer and Winter, but in winter there is snow. You reach up to speeds of something crazy like 70 mph and it’s only around 12 euro for a go. Bradley was so excited about this spot, and I was so disappointed it had just closed! 

But, you can walk around the building and if you go to the top floor in autumn you’ll be greeted with an amazing view of the surrounding area just bursting with Autumn colours! 

If you just want to go in and explore the building and find the views, then it’s only 40cent to enter. 

Read Also: How To Take Better Travel Photos

8. Explore the Castle of the Livonian Order

Oh, this was one of my favourite castles in Latvia (Latvia has quite a few good ones!). The entry fee was only 3 euro, which compared to castles in Ireland, is an absolute steal!

The castle itself has some amazing view points and you can get a lift to the highest point to check out the landscape. There is also some information points explaining the history of the castle and its purpose. 

The castle is the cover image of this post!

9. Marvel at Turaida Castle 

Another one of the great things to do in Latvia! This beautiful castle was nestled among the beautiful trees of orange, red and yellow and it makes for an epic drone shot! 

It’s one of the more pricer castles to enter, (at 6 euro! :P) but that’s because it is a popular tourist spot and it’s located in a large complex which you have full access too. 

We arrived a little late in the day (it was closing soon) and didn’t realise it was so big! So, arrive here with plenty of time. 

It’s only 3.50 euro entrance from November during the winter season. But you can find out all the information about the complex here on their website. 

It’s 1.50 euro to park your car, or free in the winter! 

TOUR: If you're planning on visiting Riga and don't want to rent a car, you can actually take a tour from Riga to see this castle and the other 2 awesome castles I mention in this post. BOOK IT HERE.

10. Visit the Secret Soviet Bunkers 

This was a spot I wanted to see in Latvia because it seems totally random and unique, but we ran out of time. But if you’re looking for a super unique thing to do in Latvia, then this is it. 

It’s a secret Cold War bunker that’s been open to the public since 2003. At 213,000 square feet, the hideout could hold 250 people for up to 3 months if a nuclear attack occurred.

It was protected by layers of cement, dirt and metal plate! You’ll need to visit via a tour which you can organise here…. Contact the Rehabilitation Centre for visiting times (00371 64161915 or 00371 26467747. Mail: [email protected] )

Oh yeah, and if you plan on heading north after Latvia, you should definitely check out the KGB Cells located in Tallinn (Estonia) as well!

11. Wander around Cesis Castle Complex 

This is another one of the most beautiful spots in Latvia and another favourite of mine! Again it’s only a couple of euro to enter, but the castle is in really good shape.

You can even head up one of the towers and at the very top (Which you wind up some dodgy and claustrophobic style stairs) there is an interactive exhibition which shows the story of the castle that we found super interesting. 

You can visit the old and the “new” castle, but we opted for the old. The castle is also located in one of the cutest Latvian towns, beside a lake with beautiful scenery. Cesis is a wonderful place and you could easily spend a day and night here wandering through the town and checking out other hotspot in the areas. 

But definitely go for the castle! One of my favourite things to do in Latvia. 

12. Have lunch in Valmiera 

Valmiera is a beautiful little town located in Latvia, we drove through this town as we were making our way to Estonia , and I actually think it’s great. It’s got a beautiful river running through it and it makes for a perfect picnic spot, which is what we did. 

There is also a museum, shopping opportunities, and lots of walks to do, so it’s a great place to visit for a day. 

13. Take a cable car ride in Sigudla 

I had to include this, as I’m a sucker for a cable car ride. I didn’t know this was here until we were at one of the castles and seen it in the distance.

Well, the views below you (that I could see) are amazing, so I think it’s totally worth doing a cable ride to get a panoramic view from above of all the beautiful forest (especially in autumn and winter!)

It’s 12 euro for the 7 minute ride that will take you over the Gauja River from Sigulda to Krimudla and you’ll get views of Krimulda Manor, the Bobsleigh and Luge Track, and the Turadia castle. 

14. Relax at Jurmala beach

We didn’t go to Jurmala beach but it was on my original Latvian itinerary, it just didn’t fit in with our road trip itinerary. However, I also think it’s better to visit a beach during the summer months so you can take full advantage of it of course! 

But this is a blue flag beach and one of the most popular beaches in Latvia, so if you’re visiting Latvia in the summer season then take a day trip and go there.

There are restaurants lined on the beach with sunbeds to relax and when temperatures can hit up to 30 degrees Celsius in the summer months in Latvia, you’re going to love it! 

There is a museum in the area to and you’re super close to the Kemeri National Park which is a bird lovers dream. 

So there you have it, my guide on the best things to do in Latvia. I hope you’ve found some inspiration from these Latvian sights and hopefully you’ll get to see them all.

Is Latvia expensive? 

No! Latvia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to visit and that’s one of the reasons why we loved it. Shopping was inexpensive for groceries, alcohol is cheap (cheaper than the UK in the majority of cases). And tourist sites are very reasonable too. For example, most castles we visited were either free or cost $2-3 entrance. 

Hotels throughout the country can vary in price, but tend to be on par with the rest of Europe, but the great news is that there are lots of amazing wild camping spots located throughout Latvia which is perfect if you’ve got a campervan/caravan or even if you want to pitch a tent.

They typically have toilets and fire pits too which is awesome! 

If you are on the lookout for reasonable accommodation, then I suggest you use Booking.com to search for the best deals. 

Eating out in Latvia is also super reasonable, even in Riga, it’s capital. You can dine for as little as 6 euro a meal in some areas and the average would be around 8-10 Euro which is great value for a city meal! 

Basically Latvia is a country that will be as cheap or as expensive as you make it. 

Where to stay in Latvia 

If you’ve got your own campervan/motorhome or caravan (or tent) then you’ll find lots of awesome wild camping spots located across Latvia. The majority of them have toilets, fire pits (to make a fire and cook food) and bins.

Wild camping in Latvia is legal, providing you’re not on private land. 

If you’re opting for accommodation in Latvia, then I suggest you use Airbnb to look for properties in general, or booking.com for the best deals on hotel stays in Latvia. There are lots of places to stay so you’ll have lots of choice. 

Sample Latvia Itinerary 

To give you a quick idea of the route we did, I’ve listed the sights we see and in what order, decide what you’re closest to and start your trip there based on this route (if you wish!).

But we have a full Baltic Roadtrip itinerary that goes into more detail about our Latvia route and the chance to see the other Baltic countries. 

This will take 3-4 days 

• Rundale Palace 
• Salaspils Memorials 
• Riga: House of Black Heads/ St Peter's Church/ Riga Castle, Freedom Monument, Central Market, Riga Old Town 
• Sigulda: Gauja national park, Gutmana Caves, Castle of the Liovan Order, Cable Car, Turaida Castle and Sigulda Bobsleigh. 
• Cesis: Soviet Secret bunker and Cesis Castle 

Last few notes 

Just a few more facts and figures to help you with your adventures through Latvia 

• Latvia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
• They use Euro as their currency 
• Most places take cards, so use Revolut or Monzo for the best exchange rates. 
• Fuel is relatively inexpensive by European standards 
• They drive on the right hand side of the road 
• Most people we spoke to knew some English
• If you don't want to rent a vehicle then consider tours from Riga

So there we have it, my guide on the best things to do in Latvia, which turned into a slight Latvia travel guide, but hey, more information is better than no information!

I hope you’ve found this post useful and if you’ve got anymore awesome places to visit in Latvia, or great things to do, then drop me a comment below.

Happy travels! 

Planning your own journey through the Baltics? Great! Check out our other guides for inspiration ...

• 13 Great Things To Do In Estonia
• Our 3 Day Lithuania Itinerary
• Our 2 Week Baltic Itinerary

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Riga travel guide — the fullest latvia travel guide & riga guide for first-timers.

If you are looking for a new and unique, lesser-known destination in Europe, Latvia is probably an ideal destination for you. Latvia – a destination that is not very famous, but if you have come here, visitors definitely cannot help but admire its beauty. Adorned with the valley pine of Gauja or the wonders bearing bold European dome architecture style, Latvia appears in a charming and brilliant way. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Latvia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Latvia travel blog (Latvia blog, Riga blog, Riga travel blog) with the fullest Latvia travel guide (Latvia guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Guide from Riga to Gauja National park — The fullest Gauja guide & what to do in Sigulda Latvia?

9 top things to do & best places to visit in Johor Bahru

Latvia, a name is still quite unfamiliar to those who are passionate about European tourism. However, in my opinion, not because few people know about it that make this place is not worth exploring at all. If I have to vote on a place that I’ve been to and want to come back again, surely the Latvian capital Riga will never be out of this list. In 2018 Riga was also voted as the top 5 most attractive destinations in Europe.

Latvia travel guide: Overview of Latvia

Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia. Latvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia and Belarus to the east and the Baltic Sea to the west. Ethnic groups are mainly Latvian (59%) and Russian (28.3%), in addition to other ethnic minorities. Latvia’s area is about 65,000 square kilometers but the population is only nearly 2.7 million people (2021).

• The Latvian capital: Riga
• Member of the European Union since 2004
• Latvian population: about 2.7 million people
• Language: Latvian, English (administrative), Russian

The capital of Latvia is Riga and this city has also been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Riga is also the largest city among cities in the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania). Latvia is a country with a long history in Europe. Historically, the country was colonized by many neighboring countries.

On November 18, 1918, the republic of Latvia was officially established. In 1940, Latvia was annexed to the Soviet Union, then became a socialist country called the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, Latvia became an independent country again. Therefore, it is not difficult to realize, the architectures were built in Riga are extremely majestic and beautiful. People often compare Riga to a city of Art Nouveau – an art and architecture school from the early 19th century that stands out with its meticulous decoration and intricate and flexible motifs. These are also special architectural features only in Riga.

In my personal opinion, the architecture here is as beautiful as in cities centers of the Netherlands or Russia and even more beautiful than the Nordic countries. Therefore, many newspapers are now assessing that Riga’s tourism is being “underrated” compared to other European countries.

Latvia travel blog: When to visit?

Latvia has a pleasant climate, so it is extremely suitable for sightseeing, relaxing and leisure travel. The best time to travel to Latvia is in spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October). During this time, the weather is warm, right in the fruit harvesting season, so the scenery even more charming. If you want to have a special experience, you can also come here around February when the temperature is very low to have fun with snow.

In addition, January and February are the coldest months of the year. November, December days are usually short and often rain in late afternoon.

Riga travel guide: Where to stay?

The cost of living in Latvia is quite cheap, the hotel price is about €20-30/night, so you will have a room right in the center if you book early.

During my trip in Riga, I stayed at the Airbnb of a Latvian man’s house. His house located right in the center, so it is quite convenient. The room rate is €23 and you are free to use its kitchen. In general, life in Latvia as well as the climate here is quite pleasant, so I was so satisfied with this trip. In addition, you can refer to some of the following hotels:

• Green Cat Rooms : The hotel is located in the heart of Riga with modern and comfortable equipment. Price €23/2 people.
• Apartment Harmony ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) : The hotel is located in the center of Riga for €24/2 people including breakfast.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Neiburgs Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Monika Centrum Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check-out top rated and best places to stay in Riga on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Latvia travel guide: Gettting to Latvia

There are no connecting flights to Riga, but you can go from Helsinki, take a ferry to Tallinn and continue take a bus to Riga. If you plan to visit Baltic states, you can make a trip to visit Tallinn (Estonia) – Riga (Latvia) – Vilnius (Lithuania).

Other ways to get to Latvia you can refer to here .

Riga travel guide: Getting around Riga

If you only visit famous places right in the center of Riga, you do not need to buy tickets for transportation, but if necessary, you can refer to some of the following options:

Hop on – hop off bus tickets: Adult: €17 / Child (11-15 years old): €10

The above fare for 2 days, and note that this is an online ticket price, if you buy it directly on bus, it will be more expensive (€20). Tickets can be used to go 4 different lines and passing many famous attractions.

Public transport:

• Take bus 22 from the airport – city center and vice versa (30 minutes)
• Single ticket price: €1.15 when buy online or via ticket vending machines, ticket counters (tickets purchased directly on the bus: €2)
• One-day ticket: €5
• 3-day ticket: €10

Riga travel blog: Where to go?

Old town of riga.

When it comes to Riga, perhaps it can’t help but to mention its old town. This district was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1997. Although the war has caused a lot of damage to the works in the Latvian capital Riga, the remaining works, buildings, structures are still well preserved to this day.

Riga’s Old Town is a maze of enchanting cobblestone streets and brightly colored buildings dating back to the 13th century. The main highlights here are the St. Peter’s Church, House of the Black Heads, and the Three Brothers. These are definitely places you should not miss when traveling to Riga.

St. Peter’s Church

The Church of St. Peter is the highest structure in Riga, with a 123.5 meter towering tower rising straight into the Old Town sky. You can take the elevator to the top of this tower for a panoramic view of the city. Besides worship services, this 13th-century Art Nouveau building also hosts art exhibitions, festivals and concerts.

Church of St. Peter is one of the oldest medieval monuments in the Baltic States. Since its construction, this tower has been affected by lightning, wind storms and fire and has been rebuilt many times.

Located next to the gentle Daugava River, Saint Peter’s Church is the most representative of the quintessence of Art Nouveau architecture school. Using curving curves with high vaulted doorways and elaborate decorations, St. Peter’s Church is the most beautiful and impressive church in the Baltic region.

Address: Reformācijas Laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 10AM–7PM/Monday: Closed Architectural style: Gothic architecture Opened: 1746

House of the Blackheads

The House of the Blackheads was built in 1334 and was the meeting venue of Riga’s various public organizations. It was completely destroyed during the 2nd world war and was rebuilt in 1999. This building can be seen as the symbol of Latvia tourism that you often see on its postcards.

This magnificent Blackheads building is like a crown adorning the Old Town square in Riga. The building’s Dutch Renaissance exterior is a tourist attraction. This building was built in the 14th century, was destroyed during the war and rebuilt in 1999.

Address: Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12–5PM Admission: €6

Three Brothers

A building complex of three houses, located in the Latvian capital Riga. This is considered the oldest residence in Riga. The homes are located at 17, 19 and 21 Maza Pils Street, and each represents different periods of housing development of the city.

Address: Mazā Pils iela 17, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Christ’s Nativity Church is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Baltic region. The church was built in 1876, when Latvia was part of the Russian Empire. At that time, this church was one of the most laborious and expensive buildings ever built in Riga. In the 1960s, the Soviets converted the cathedral’s use into an observatory and cafe, destroying the murals on the ceiling. The building returned to its original role as a church when Latvia gained independence from Russia.

I consider this a very worthwhile place to go when traveling to Riga, Latvia because besides the church’s architecture, its location is right on the boulevard overlooking the trees that are trimmed like square-shaped, evenly and eye-catching. Besides, this church is located right in the campus of an extremely large park. You definitely won’t regret coming to this place.

Address: Brīvības bulvāris 23, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7AM–6:30PM Architectural style: Byzantine Revival architecture Opened: 1876 Admission: free

Bastejkalna Park

In addition to the outstanding places above with countless small places to visit in Latvia, you can visit some other places such as Bastejkalna Park or Riga central market.

Bastejkalna Park is also an interesting place that you should stop when traveling in Latvia. This is very large park located in the bustling center of Riga, Latvian park possesses extremely rich natural scenes. Inside the park are large lakes. To experience the wonderful and interesting things here, you can walk or cycle around the park. You will sure to have an enjoyable picnic here.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Open 24 hours

Riga Central Market

The Central Market is located next to Riga Bus Station and Central Railway Station, near the Old Town and is full of goods and food. You can stop by to know the price of food and experience the real market culture here.

Address: Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7:30AM–6PM

Freedom Monument

Freedom Monument is a memorial to the soldiers who participated in the Latvian war for independence. The monument consists of a large column, carved statues around it, at the top of the column is a bronze statue of the Statue of Liberty, holding 3 stars. This monument is a symbol of Latvia’s freedom, independence and sovereignty.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Opened: November 18, 1935 Height: 42 m

Riga Castle

Riga Castle, located on the banks of the Daugava River, is a must-see when visiting the Latvian capital. It was built in 1330. After several destructions, the castle was continuously restored between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, it is used as a museum and the presidential residence.

Address: Pils laukums 3, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Architectural style: Classical architecture Function: Castle Opened: 1515

In addition, if you still have time, you can go to the other side of the city’s river where many Russians live is called Pardaugava. This area also has a number of attractions such as flea market, museum, Holy Trinity Church of Pārdaugava, park… If you take a hop on hop off bus, the bus will take you to this area too.

Jurmala Beach

And the last place to consider to come when traveling to Latvia is Jurmala Beach, a 30-minute train ride from the center. If you still have time, you should consider to go, this beach has the Blatic style, so it’s not as excellent as our Vietnamese beaches.

Cēsis Old Town

Cesis is one of Latvia’s oldest towns with poetic cobblestone streets, wooden buildings and impressive castles. With gardens, lakes, flowers and small paths, or moss-covered rocks… Cesis appears as beautiful as a watercolor painting. When you visit Cesis, you can visit the historic museum, gallery and oldest brewery in the region.

Gutmanis Cave

Gutmanis is the deepest cave in the Baltic region at a depth of 19m, 10-12m wide. This is also a favorite destination of tourists when coming to this Baltic country. There are many legends about the formation of this cave, one of which is the story of a chief’s wife, who was locked here because of infidelity, her tears created Gutmanis cave.

Turaida castle

One of the most beautiful places in Latvia is Turai Castle. This castle was built during the time of the Roman pope. However it was destroyed in 1776. But, 50 years later it was restored to its original form. Visiting this castle, visitors will see the red brick background, it exudes a rare ancient look. The wild scenery around the castle makes you feel like you are lost in the magical fairy world.

Address: Turaidas iela 10, Sigulda, Siguldas pilsēta, LV-2150, Latvia Hours: 10AM–6PM

Venta Rapid Waterfall

With an impressive width (249m), Venta is currently the widest waterfall in Europe, although the slope is only about 2m. The best time to see this waterfall is in spring. When the water overflows, the waterfall also turns and shoots white foam.

Riga travel guide: What to eat?

Latvian cuisine is typical of European cuisine. It brings the subtle and sophisticated. In addition to its delicious and attractive taste, it is also decorated very sophisticatedly and eye-catching. In particular, the dishes in Latvia are not too expensive, suitable for the budget of most tourists.

Typical Latvian cuisine consists of agricultural products, where meat is present in almost every main course of a meal. Fish is commonly consumed as Latvia is located on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. Latvian cuisine changes with the seasons, each time of the year has its own unique foods and flavors. Latvian food is generally quite fatty and uses little seasoning.

Here, you can try to enjoy Sklandrausis pie , a traditional vegetable pastry made from carrots and potatoes, sprinkled with cinnamon powder and served with milk; dessert Maizes zupa (bread soup) made with rye bread, whipped cream and fruit; or sipping a glass of Riga Black Balsam flavored with a variety of herbs.

Coming here, you can rest assured that you can eat comfortably without having to worry about costs. A meal in restaurants costs only €4-5. Supermarkets are of course cheap. In general, the price is cheaper than all the countries I have been to in Europe (on par with Lithuania).

If you want Asian food, come here, I think it’s delicious and the price is also quite good: Hum Asian Kitchen : (Address: etrūdes iela 22, Riga 1011, Latvia+371 66 077 077).

If you want to try an authentic Latvian restaurant, you can visit this place: Domini Canes (Address: Skarnu street 18/20 | Riga Old Town, Riga 1050, Latvia). This restaurant is located in the old town near St. Peter church.

Onother good restaurant also located in the Old Town is Golden coffee (Address: Kungu iela 7/9, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia/Hours: 9AM–11PM).

In short, traveling to Riga is the cheapest cost among other European cities!

Riga travel guide: Shopping

In Latvia there are many places to shop with interesting gifts for yourself or as souvenirs for loved ones such as amber rings, silver jewelry, smoked ceramics, very beautiful decorated fingerless gloves or unique handicrafts. These items are sold everywhere from traditional markets to commercial centers, from shops to roadside stalls.

Riga travel blog: Trip costs

Riga has a very good cost of living, not as expensive as many Western and Nordic countries. A bottle of soft drink costs 80 cents, while in Finland it is €2.5 and in France €2.0.

One night hostel from €10 – €15. Hotels from €20. I have stayed at a 4-star hotel but the price is only €35, this price is even cheaper than mid-range hotels in Vietnam.

Means of transportation you can buy daily ticket for €5 and can use all bus and tram system of the city.

The trip cost per day if staying at hostel is only €35/day/person.

Riga blog: Some notes before you go

• In short, when traveling to Riga, the most worth-visiting place in my opinion is Riga Old Town – where many Art Nouveau buildings and churches and other historical sites are concentrated. There is also an boulevard and Christ’s Nativity church right in the center. The above places can be considered a must see in Riga – the rest of the places I have mentioned, if you still have time, let explore. The itinerary for traveling between attractions is not too difficult. You just need to find your way to the old town and boulevard. Generally pretty easy to find.
• If you have time, go to Lithuania – a neighboring country with the same cost as Latvia but the scenery is also very beautiful.

Riga travel blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Riga you can refer to

• Tallink Silja Cruise between Stockholm and Riga
• Riga Classical Old Town 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Sigulda Hiking Tour: A Day in the Switzerland of Latvia
• From Riga: Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour
• Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk
• Eurail Pass for Latvia (3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 Days)
• Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat
• Riga: Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Riga: 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Latvia: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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10 Reasons to Visit Latvia

Explore a country of northeastern europe and the middle of the three baltic states.

10 reasons to visit Latvia

• Latvian Cuisine
• Riga Central Market
• The Perfect SPA Getaway
• Beautiful Beaches
• It’s Affordable
• Soviet reminders
• Kooky experiences

Recommended tours

• Related blogs

Learn about Latvia - a country on the Baltic Sea between Lithuania and Estonia and plan to visit! Read about 10 reasons why you should visit Latvia and plan your trip now!

1. Old Rīga

Riga has become a top holiday destination for travelers from all over the world. The Old Town is the city’s very heart with impressive historic buildings, oversized churches and cobbled streets. In  the  summer, the Old Town  sees  heavy tourist traffic because of its many sunny squares ,  beer gardens and street cafes. During the winter time ,  the Old Town is full of Christmas markets with sweet-smelling wine, roasted almonds and glazed gingerbread.

Riga’s Art Nouveau architecture  is one of the most unique aspects of this Baltic city. At the turn of the 20th century, when Art Nouveau was at the height of its popularity, Riga just happened to be at the center of an unprecedented financial boom. Riga has more than 400 buildings of Art Nouveau architecture and they are still in great condition. Visit the Art Nouveau Museum to look at its beautiful staircase and a recreation of a true-to-the-era interior or stroll down Alberta or Elizabeta streets for plenty of picture-worthy examples of this century-old style.

2. Latvian Cuisine

If you want to get a glimpse of Latvian culture and traditions and understand them better, you need to get to know the cuisine with all its unique dishes, including kvass, soups and dark rye bread. At the beginning of your trip, some of the dishes may seem unusual or even strange, but if you are open to an unforgettable culinary journey in Latvia, you will want to take all these dishes home with you.

Skābeņu zupa , sometimes called green borscht, is a traditional Latvian sorrel soup. Latvians prepare the soup with beef broth, chopped sorrel leaves, pearl barley, onions, potatoes and lemon juice. Some Latvians also add grated carrots and smoked pork ribs, while hard-boiled eggs and sour cream are typically used as garnishes. Although  skābeņu zupa is usually served warm, some prefer it to be served ice cold on hot summer days. The word skābeņu in the name of this soup means sour and refers to the taste of sorrel.

Karbonade  is pounded pork fried in breadcrumbs. Since pork plays an essential role on Latvian menus, it is one of the country's most popular dishes. Karbonade is typically served with a mound of creamy mushrooms on top and some dill-spiced potatoes on the side.

Aukstā zupa  is a Latvian cold soup with an unusual deep pink color. It is made with beets, cucumbers, dill, kefir, hard-boiled eggs, and milk sausage. Some Latvians enjoy the soup with a dash of vinegar. All the ingredients are mixed together, seasoned with salt and pepper, and then the soup is served cold. It is recommended to serve the soup with a few slices of brown bread or boiled potatoes. Aukstā zupa is popular during the summer, so it is hard to find it in restaurants during wintertime.

Maizes zupa.  A popular way to end a meal in Latvia is to eat a pot of maizes zupa, which is rye bread pudding, a soup-like dessert made of sweetened rye bread, apples, cinnamon, raisins, prunes, cranberries, and whipped cream. The dark rye bread is dried in the oven before being cooked, which gives the pudding a thick, comforting texture.

3. Riga Central Market

Riga's Central Market is officially the largest market in Europe. The five large former Zeppelin hangars were converted into market halls in 1930. Inside the hangars, you can buy fish, meat, dairy products, bread and vegetables, while CDs and household appliances are sold outside. Exclusive fashion items or souvenirs are rare to find, but a visit to this huge bazaar will give you a feel for local life like perhaps no other attraction can. Negotiating prices is rarely acceptable there, but you can always try your luck. Moreover, you can taste the products on the spot before buying. So if you want to try fresh Latvian products, this is the place to do it. You should definitely try cheese and bread from the region, you won’t regret it!

4. The Perfect SPA Getaway

One of the best things about Latvia is cheap and great spas.  ESPA Riga  is one of the internationally recognized five-star SPA centers in the Baltic States. A whole day at ESPA, a luxurious five-star spa, with facials, body scrubs, hour-long massages, pool and sauna sessions, topped off with a 2-course gourmet meal and Champagne. The total price? Just €170. Moreover, you can find even cheaper spa experiences in Latvia, just search for it!

If you want to get to know Latvia even more closely and deeply, take a walk through the forests of Latvia. The country is one of Europe’s greenest nations. The forests in Latvia cover about 45% of the country and are home to a variety of animals such as beavers, birds of prey and lynx. Visit  Kemeri National park  and the  Gauja National park  and enjoy nature at its best.

6. Beautiful Beaches

People who visit the  Baltic Sea  in Latvia for the first time are often surprised by how beautiful the beaches are. The endless golden sandy beaches are a great place to let the kids play with a bucket and spade. Just 20 kilometers from the capital  Riga , is  Jūrmala . This is Latvia's most luxurious beach town and is filled with grand wooden holiday homes and large spa hotels. Jūrmala is also known as the tourist pearl of the country, which hosts many visitors every year. There are huge spas, hotels and many historical buildings in the city. You can come here with your loved ones and enjoy a great vacation. Everything you need for sightseeing, rest and entertainment is available there.

For a more relaxed vibe, visit  Ventspils  in the northeast. Aside from its bustling port, Ventspils is a city of beaches, public art, and an incredible array of activities for children.

7. It’s Affordable

Looking at other European countries, Latvia is a very affordable country. You can easily get a delicious meal for less than €15, rent a car for a week for less than €200, and enjoy a night in a comfortable hotel for only €40. Prices go up in the summer when the tourist traffic increases. Autumn is the perfect time to get cheap deals on flights and accommodation, making your experience even more affordable.

8. Soviet reminders

If you want to see the various sides of the USSR, you can find them all in this country. The "good" side is represented by buildings you either love or hate, such as the oversized skyscraper of the Academy of Sciences in  Riga  (nicknamed "Stalin's wedding cake") and the boxy modernist building that houses the Museum of Latvian Occupation. Inside, the museum summarizes the "bad" side of Soviet life, such as deportations, gulags, and purges. As for the "ugly" side, you can find many of the grey, utilitarian buildings that embody the words "formerly Soviet."

There are about 140 medieval castles in Latvia. Some of them date back to the time of the Baltic Crusade, while many magnificent palaces belonged to the nobility after the time of the Baltic Crusades.

Rundale Castle  in Latvia is one of the two greatest Baroque castles built for the Duke of Courland. The palace, with its magnificent Baroque and Rococo architecture, is located in the southern part of Latvia, in the middle of the beautiful Zemgale Plain. It was built in the late 18th century and the interiors were decorated by a Berlin-based sculptor and Italian painters. There are so many impressive rooms that can be seen after the renovation. From the Billiards Room to the Studies and everything in between. In  Rundale Castle , Latvian history is presented through exhibitions. In the exhibition hall, there are also many exhibits of applied arts as well as historical expositions for the visitors. Many music festivals and classical music concerts are also held in this beautiful palace.

Turaida Castle , located on the banks of the Gauja River in the vast territory, is an important defensive fortress that was built in 1214. This castle played an important role throughout history. This building, made of red bricks, attracts great attention for its architecture. Unfortunately, it was damaged in a fire in 1776 but was recently reconstructed. Exhibitions about the history of the brick castle and the Gauja Livonians are available in the restored buildings. It shares the unique landscape that you definitely have to see!

The Gauja Valley  in Latvia is  home to many stone castles. This part of Latvia has the largest concentration of castles.  Sigulda Castle  is one such castle, built in the 13th century by  the  Livonian Brothers of the Sword. The castle was originally built to control the waterways of the Gauja Valley .   I n the early  13th  century, it was converted into a monastic home by the Pope's legate, William of Modena. A church was built in the castle  and  a parish was founded  at  Sigulda Castle.

Riga castle.  Riga Castle has stood on the right bank of the River Daugava for more than 700 years. Through the centuries, it has seen severe destruction, numerous rulers and wars. Today it is the residence of the President of Latvia.

The beautiful  Bauska Castle  is situated amid a very picturesque landscape. The castle stands on a cape where two rivers, Musa and Melemele, flow into the Lielupe. The castle consists of two parts. One is the old castle of the Livonian Order from the 15th century and a newer part from the 16th century, which served as the residence of the Dukes of Courland. Inside the castle, you can see the defenses, including many cannons, as well as clothing and ornaments of the Duchy of Courland from the 16th and 17th centuries.

10. Kooky experiences

From spy games in old Soviet buildings to horror scenes re-enacted in darkened basements, Latvia has a selection of experiential attractions to offer. If you have an appetency for Soviet-style punishments, head to Liepāja's creepy old military prison Karosta Prison for a few hours of abuse by costumed KGB agents. For an even more immersive experience, you can even spend the night in a cell and familiarize yourself with the authentically gruesome toilet facilities. Join our tour to visit Karosta Prison .

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