latvia travel guide

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:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• ALL TRAVEL GUIDES
• DESTINATION FILTER

TOP OF PAGE

Quick Facts

Best Time To Go

Cost & Spending

Travel Tips

Regions & Highlights

What To See & Do

Itineraries

What To Eat

Where To Stay

Trip Planning

Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

L earn more  about us !

Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! ​We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.

LATVIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Until fairly recently, Latvia was swallowed up by the mighty Russian Empire - now one of the many small new countries of East Europe. Latvia is only just emerging from the shadow of big brother, the erstwhile USSR, and tasting independence after the collapse of communism. The Latvian countryside is a beautiful one, with scenic vistas, dense forests, and sunny beaches, and a long history.

Latvia became a republic in 1994 and things began to change; today, life is more relaxed and free in Latvia. There are cafes; bars, cinema halls, museums, and palaces, finally open to the public. Shops are full of local produce, and the government is trying its best to replace the old economic system with a new, more dynamic, and free-market economy. Most importantly, tourism is recognized as an important sector of this new economy.

Latvia's landscape is characterized by wide beaches as well as dense, sprawling forests. Latvia’s capital is Riga, home to notable wooden and art nouveau architecture, a vast Central Market, and a medieval Old Town with St. Peter's Church. Riga's museums include the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, showcasing local crafts, food, and music.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR LATVIA?

<<VISA RESULT>>

<< Visa Details >>

For the latest requirements or for application click

Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

⬇️ REGIONAL GUIDES ⬇️

Travel guide.

⬇️ COUNTRY GUIDE ⬇️

ADVERTISEMENT

• Capital : Riga
• Currency : euro (EUR)
• Area : 64,589 sq km
• Population : 1,92 million (2019)
• Language : Latvian (official), Russian (widely spoken, especially in Riga and Daugavpils), English (widely spoken in Riga), others
• Religion :Lutheran, Catholic, Muslim, Russian Orthodox, Jewish
• Electricity : 220V/50Hz (European plug)
• 4 May, Restoration of Independence (1990)
• 18 November, Independence Day (1918)

Latvian Song and Dance Festival

One of the key cultural events in Latvia with a history starting back in 1873 as a singing festival. Now the festival involves live performances of various choirs, folk dance groups, brass bands, etc. Competitions, exhibitions, concerts, parades, and joint concerts are some of the cultural events. Riga is full of people wearing traditional costumes and cheerful people from all of Latvia. It is held once in five years.

QUICK BOOKING RESOURCES

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT LATVIA

The best time to visit the Baltic States is late spring or summer when there’s usually enough fine weather to allow you to stroll around the cities and make significant forays into the great outdoors. On the whole, though, the only thing that’s predictable about the Baltic climate is the deep, dark winters – in all other seasons, the weather can be changeable in the extreme.

Summers are relatively short (roughly mid-June to late August), and although you may well experience a string of hot, dry days during this period, showers and chilly nights are equally likely. Remember to pack a waterproof jacket and warm sweater alongside your T-shirts.

Temperatures cool down rapidly from mid-September onwards, although autumn can be an extraordinarily beautiful season in which to visit, with the golden brown leaves of deciduous trees contrasting with the dark-green pines.

The first snowfalls can come as early as mid-November and by early to mid-December winter sets in with a vengeance. Average daytime temperatures can remain below zero right through until March, plummeting to minus 15–20°C in particularly cold spells. Winter can of course be a magical time, with lakes, rivers, and large expanses of the Baltic Sea freezing over, and crunchy snow cover adding an air of enchantment to medieval city centers.

Even when the spring thaw sets in, the countryside can remain grey and barren until well into April (or even May in northern Estonia), when a sudden explosion of colour transforms the landscape. The countryside takes on a green lushness, drawing cattle and horses out from their winter barns, while city-dwellers indulge in a frenzied stampede for the pavement cafés.

June to August - Summer starts with an all-night solstice romp; then it’s off to the beach.

September - Refusing to let summer go, Rīgans sip lattes under heat lamps at alfresco cafes.

December - Celebrate the festive season in the birthplace of the Christmas tree.

BEST TIME FOR:

The snow sports season in Latvia can start early in December and last until the end of March.

The best time for outdoor activities in Latvia is from September to May as the forests can be full of mosquitoes during the summer months.

Latvia has some beautiful beaches with their short summer beach season stretching from the beginning of June to the end of August.

The surf season in Latvia is unfortunately not during the summer, but rather during the cooler Autumn and even Winter months.

Latvia only has a 50% chance of winds good enough for kitesurfing from April to December, leaving kitesurfing possible but not all that probable!

For more details on kite surfing in Latvia expand this section!

FIND ALTERNATIVES TO LATVIA?

Find your perfect destination.

Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.

MORE POSTS ON LATVIA

WEWILLNOMAD

LATVIA TRAVEL COSTS

If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s easy to get a taste of the Latvian countryside on day trips from Rīga. Within 75km of the capital are two national parks, the country’s grandest palace, and long stretches of flaxen beach.

Riga’s affordable prices, bustling nightlife, and beautiful scenery (both architecture and people) make it an ideal location for budget travellers… except that it’s located away from the normal budget traveller’s trail. However, you can find cheap flights to Riga from most major cities if you book ahead.

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to latvia, travel tips for latvia.

Attractions in Riga are affordable and often free but some free sites may ask for a donation. We suggest taking a walking tour to learn about the city’s history.

Food can be very affordable in Riga but you’ll want to do a little research to find the best quality. However, if you plan on eating in Castle Square, you’re going to pay a premium, so watch out for that. Many places offer “business lunch,” which is a fixed-price menu that consists of a starter, a main, and a drink. Expect to pay anywhere from €5-€8.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF LATVIA

Admire the menagerie of gargoyles, beasts, goddesses, and twisting vines that inhabits Rīga’s art nouveau architecture.

Clatter along cobblestones, climb church spires, and generally enjoy the gingerbread trim that is Old Rīga .

Explore the castle by candlelight and stroll the historic streets of Cēsis .

Trek from castle to castle amid the forested surrounds of Sigulda .

Indulge in aristocratic decadence as you wander the intricate interiors and gorgeous gardens of Rundāle Palace.

Case out the castle, then laze on the long and glorious stretch of beach at Ventspils .

Hobnob with Russian jet-setters in the swanky beachside spa town of Jūrmala .

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN LATVIA

Latvia's dynamic capital, the historic city of Rīga , is a great place to spend some time. Rīga isn't a 'wallop you over the head with grand sights' kind of city. Its charms are much more subtle than that, coalescing around its laid-back riverside vibe, a compact historic heart and ramshackle suburbs of wooden houses. Most impressively, Rīga has the largest array of art nouveau architecture in Europe! It boasts a truly lovely old quarter, full of magnificent Jugendstil architecture, winding cobblestoned lanes and many steeples. Yet, it is a modern, metropolitan city with a vibrant nightlife and a strong economic impulse. Riga's vibe gets under many travellers' skins, perhaps for the strong contrasts between old and new or maybe because of the seemingly painless blend of Latvian and Russian cultures, as almost half of the city's inhabitants are of Russian origin. To get a sense of the city, wander through its large, manicured parks, stroll through the historic quarter and then kick back in one of the many cafés or outdoor terraces. Among Riga's best sights are the impressive Riga Cathedral, St. Peter's Church and the bustling Central Market.

Although Riga is by far the country's main tourist destination, there are a bunch of other places well worth a visit. At just 40 km from the capital is Sigulda , with its reconstructed Turaida Castle, an interesting castle museum as well as the deep Gutmanis Cave. The town is located in the beautiful Gauja valley - called the "Switzerland of Latvia" for its steep cliffs and banks. It's known for its winter sports opportunities and makes a great base for explorations of the fine nature around it. Sigulda is a magical mix of scenic walking and cycling trails, extreme sports and 800-year-old castles steeped in colourful legends

The Baltic's version of the French Riviera, Jūrmala is a long string of townships with grand wooden beach houses belonging to Russian oil tycoons and their supermodel trophy wives. Even during the height of communism, Jūrmala was a place to see and be seen. On summer weekends, jet-setters and day-tripping Rīgans flock to the resort town for some serious fun in the sun. If you don't have a car or bicycle, your best bet is to head straight to the townships of Majori and Dzintari, the heart of the action. A 1km-long pedestrian street, Jomas iela , connects the two and is considered to be Jūrmala's main drag.

The coastal city of Liepāja is known to Latvians as "the city where the wind is born", for the sea breeze it constantly enjoys. It has a nice beach and a charming town centre with a colourful mixture of architectural styles, from wooden houses and spacious parks to Art Nouveau and concrete, Soviet-era apartment buildings. Liepāja's neighbourhood of Karosta was built in the late 19th century as a naval base for Tsar Alexander III and was later used by the Soviet Baltic Fleet. Its splendid sea side panoramas, former military prison and fortress remain now make it a popular tourist sight.

Fabulous amounts of oil and shipping money have given Ventspils an economic edge over Latvia's other small cities, and although locals coddle their Užavas beer and claim that there's not much to do, tourists will find a weekend's worth of fun in the form of brilliant beaches, well-maintained parks and museums.

Cesis is one of the country's oldest towns and has a charming centre with cobblestoned lanes, historic wooden building and a few impressive castles.

If Kuldīga was a tad closer to Rīga it would be crowded with day-tripping camera-clickers. Fortunately, the town is located deep in the heart of rural Kurzeme, making its quaint historic core the perfect reward for more intrepid travellers. Kuldīga boasts Europe's widest (249m), though at two meters high unspectacular, water fall - the Ventas Rumba . It's part of the Venta Rapid, one of Latvia's natural monuments and despite its limited height it's still a nice sight and the town itself is well worth exploring too.

WHAT TO EAT IN LATVIA

For centuries in Latvia, food equaled fuel, energizing peasants as they worked the fields and warming their bellies during bone-chilling Baltic winters. Pork, herring, boiled potatoes, sauerkraut, and black bread are the traditional standbys, pepped up with dill, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Black bread is an extremely important part of Latvian food and you will find many types around the country. They are believed to be much healthier than white bread - try Lacu or Liepkalni for an authentic taste!

In Latvia, the whole concept and meaning of words Cafeteria (Kafejnīca), Canteen (Ēdnīca) and Restaurant (Restorāns) are rather different than in many other countries. A Cafeteria or Kafejnīca is not just a coffee shop. Usually, you can have all meals that you would probably expect in a restaurant. The difference is that in Kafejnīca you sometimes bring your food to your table yourself. However, some Kafejnīcas will have waiters, but these are then something in between of Kafejnīca and Restorāns. Restorāns is usually a more or less top class place (however, some fast food establishments, in keeping with foreign naming conventions, refer to themselves as such). Ēdnīca is a name for canteens of schools, universities, factories, etc. They tend to serve traditional Latvian/Soviet era foods and are often perceived by locals to have a high quality/price ratio, but sometimes these venues limit access to outside customers.

Other local tastes to look out for include the following:

Mushrooms - Not a sport but a national obsession, mushroom picking takes the country by storm during the first showers of autumn.

Smoked fish - Dozens of fish shacks dot the Kurzeme coast – look for the veritable smoke signals rising above the tree line.

Black Balzām -The jet-black, 45%-proof concoction is a secret recipe of more than a dozen fairy-tale ingredients including oak bark, wormwood, and linden blossoms. Many locals swear by its medicinal properties, and at the least, the alcohol content will let you forget about what ails you until the next morning.

Alus - For such a tiny nation there's definitely no shortage of alus (beer) – each major town has its own brew. You can't go wrong with Užavas or Valmiermuižas.

LGBTQ IN LATVIA

I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset.

WHERE TO STAY IN LATVIA

For a first-time visit to Latvia, it's recommended to base yourself in Riga, the capital city, due to its central location, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Here's why:

Where To Stay In Riga:

Riga is the largest city in Latvia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning architecture, charming Old Town, and lively atmosphere.

Explore attractions like the Riga Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, and the Art Nouveau District.

Budget : Red Nose Hostel offers affordable accommodations with dormitory and private rooms, located in the heart of the Old Town near major attractions.

Mid-range : Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa provides comfortable rooms and modern amenities with a central location, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and museums.

Luxury : Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga offers luxurious accommodations with upscale facilities, including a spa, rooftop bar, and panoramic views of the city skyline.

Tip : Visit Riga during the summer months (June to August) for festivals and outdoor events, and consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like the Christmas markets in December.

Additionally, for those interested in exploring Latvia's coastal regions and natural landscapes, consider staying in Jūrmala:

Where To Stay In Jūrmala:

Jūrmala is a seaside resort town located on the Gulf of Riga, known for its sandy beaches, pine forests, and thermal mineral springs. Explore attractions like Jomas Street, Dzintari Forest Park, and Majori Beach.

Budget : Hotel Jurmala Spa offers affordable accommodations with spa facilities and a central location near the beach and entertainment venues.

Mid-range : Baltic Beach Hotel & SPA provides comfortable rooms and resort-style amenities with direct beach access and wellness treatments.

Luxury : Hotel Jūrmala Spa & Conference Centre is a luxurious hotel located near the beach. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a spa offering a variety of treatments, multiple swimming pools, sauna complexes, and several dining options including a rooftop restaurant.

Tip : Visit Jūrmala during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for quieter beaches and better rates on accommodations and explore the town's vibrant cultural scene and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

Recent blog posts, plan your trip, visa services, let ivisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with electronic visas, travel authorizations, visas on arrival, and even paper visas. they can also help with health declarations and embassy registrations. if you're from the us, they also provide a one-stop shop to renew your passport securely and error-free..

FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favourite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. 

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

INSURANCE Travel insurance can protect you against unexpecte d illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Heymondo (International Travel Insurance)

World Nomads   (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

Need more help to book your trip? Check our complete resource page  for all the best companies to use when you travel. You will only find the companies we use ourselves.

Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,

we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase.

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?

Enjoyed this ultimate Latvia travel guide? Pin it for later!

• Discover the Baltics: One week in Latvia

A true symbol of resilience: Unveiled in 1935 during Latvia 's first stint of independence, the Freedom Monument survived 40+ years of Soviet occupation

• Not only is the historic centre of Latvia ’s capital Riga a UNESCO world heritage site , but with more than 800 Art Nouveau buildings, Riga (not Barcelona) is also considered the Art Nouveau capital of Europe .
• Only a short trip outside of Riga , grand wooden seaside homes and ancient Teutonic castles are just waiting to be explored.
• Latvia has four outstanding National Parks (two of which feature in our itinerary). Sounds wonderful? Well, it is.

Dating from the 15th to the 17th centuries, the Three Brothers are the oldest complex of dwelling houses in Riga

Below is a map of the recommended accommodation, points of interest, eateries and transport terminals/stops mentioned in this article.

Our itinerary assumes that you travel to Riga overland from Lithuania (or arrive in Riga by plane). If you don’t have time to continue your travels to Estonia , your closest airport to return home is Riga (88 kilometres / approximately 2.5 hours southwest of Cēsis).

To organise your mode of transport between the three stops (and for your day trip from Riga ) check out the transport section in our Baltics article .

But first, let’s talk about what there is to see and do…

As with Lithuania ‘s capital Vilnius and Estonia ‘s capital Tallinn , we recommend starting your first day in Riga with a free walking tour around the Old Town. Several benefits of doing this include:

• Cost-effective: No upfront fees, tips are optional.
• Local Insights: Guides offer insider knowledge about the area.
• Flexible Schedule: Tours run frequently, easy to fit in.
• Meet Travelers: Great way to connect with fellow tourists.

We did the Old Riga Free Tour and throughly enjoyed it.

For lunch, head to Salve in the Old Town, to one of the Lido Bistro outlets or Riga ’s Central Market in the old Zeppelin hangars opposite the bus station where you arrived. That market alone would be a reason for us to move to Riga .

If we lived in Riga the Central Market would be our favourite hangout

If you enjoyed the Old Town walking tour and have a soft spot for architecture, Riga Free Tours now also offers a walking tour that takes you around Riga’s Art Nouveau treasures .

If you’re more into art than architecture, you may want to check out the Latvian National Museum of Art.

With more than 800 Art Nouveau buildings, Riga is considered the Art Nouveau Capital of Europe | Photo by Kate Sobol

And if you’re more into history (especially if you’ve missed the Museum in Vilnius ), you may want to join the guided tours

• at the Museum of Latvia’s Occupation (Raiņa Bulvāris 7) or
• at The Corner House (Brīvības Iela 61) – the former KGB building, which houses an exhibition about the KGB operations in Latvia .

For more details, check out the museum’s website .

If you love art visiting the Latvian National Museum of Art is a MUST | Madonna with machine gun - Painting by Kārlis Padegs

Finish off your first day with innovative cocktails, delicious modern Korean food and sunset views over Riga from the Skyline Bar at the Riga Radisson Blu Hotel . Or if you’re in town on a Friday, head to Riga’s Cathedral to join the weekly organ concert at 1900h.

Sunset views of Riga that don't cost you a cent (unless you complement them with a cocktail and a bite to eat)

Visiting the Baltic countries cost us on average EUR45.17/USD50.54 per person per day. Check out our individual country costs here:

On your second day in Riga , we suggest you head out of the city. All the below destinations can be reached by public transport. Alternatively, you can hire a car for the day.

First up, head to the historic seaside resort of Jūrmala , 40 kilometres / approximately 30 minutes west of Riga . The main sights are in the suburb of Majori, so if you take the minibus or train alight there.

If you drive and visit between 01 April and 30 September, you need to buy an entry pass (EUR2 per vehicle). Ticket machines are at the town entrance and in Majori itself. In turn, all municipal parking lots are free of charge. The quaint seaside town is easy to explore on foot .

For a taste of the Baltic Sea near Riga , head to Jūrmala

Your next stop is the Ķemeri National Park (11 kilometres/20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus/train). The National Park offers many flat trails and boardwalks. So before you go, check out the park map online or head into the Tourist Information Centre opposite the train station in Majori. Also, make sure you bring insect repellent.

If you didn’t hire a car , take the minibus or train to the township of Kemeri. If the distances don’t bother you, you can, of course, walk all trails from the train station/bus stop. Alternatively, you can hire bicycles in Kemeri (right at the station – the shop is called Velo Noma ) or in Majori – including electric bikes (for example, at ABC Grupa or ZLX ). Be aware though: The ride from Majori to Kemeri, while flat, is just over 20 kilometres one-way (or 40 kilometres return).

Kemeri National Park is only an hour by car/bus/train outside of Riga | Image courtesy of Artis VEIGURS

As for trails, our recommendations are

• Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk : The larger boardwalk loop is about 3.5 kilometres from the parking lot (or 11 kilometres return from Kemeri train station)
• Lake Sloka Path : From the car park at Lake Sloka, the circular route is approximately three kilometres. If you are walking or cycling, it is approximately five kilometres from Kemeri train station to the parking lot at Lake Sloka (or ten kilometres return).

If you have time for a little detour after finishing the Lake Sloka Path you can add the Black Alder Swamp Boardwalk , which starts at Meža Māja, approximately three kilometres from Kemeri train station (or alight at the bus stop Meža Māja). If you walk the Lake Sloka Path, you pass Meža Māja anyway. The loop itself is less than one kilometre long.

The Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk was first recommend to us by a Riga barista | Courtesy of Antonija RIMAC

• To try Latvian cuisine at reasonable prices, head to one of the Lido Bistros in Riga . For traditional dishes in a more refined environment, check out Salve in Riga ’s Old Town.
• For delicious modern Korean dishes and sunset views over Riga visit the Skyline Bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel.
• While staying in the historic Hotel Sigulda might be a bit too expensive, the restaurant serves delicious food made from fresh local produce.

Crispy Fried Rice is one of the amazing dishes available at the Skyline Bar | Photo courtesy of Riga Radisson Blu

The Gauja National Park is just over an hour by train or bus east of Riga . While you could visit Sigulda or Cēsis (the two main vantage points for the park) on a day trip from Riga , we recommend you stay in either or both to really experience the National Park and all it has to offer. You can hike, kayak or bike past colourful sandstone formations and enjoy beautiful vistas over the Gauja River valley.

In Gauja National Park, you can hike, mountainbike or kayak past beautiful sandstone formations | Photo courtesy of Pixabay

You can hire bikes and boats in both Sigulda and Cēsis:

• Sigulda: There is a bike rental shop opposite the train station and an e-bike rental shop by the cable car station. A number of companies also offer boat rentals .
• Bike rental in Cēsis is available near the entrance to the Cēsis Castle and Museum. Boat rental in Cēsis is offered by Žagarkalns, approximately 6 kilometres west of the township.

A hike in Latvia 's first and largest National Park doesn't cost you a cent

The Gauja National Park not only offers a ton of options for nature lovers. You can also bungee jump from the cable car across the Gauja river in Sigulda or zip line on the cable car’s cableway.

In Sigulda, you can not only take the cable car across the Gauja river but also bungee jump off the cable car and zipline across on the cable way | Photo by Reinis Kaspars on Pixabay

You can also visit the old castles of the Livonian Order (Teutonic Knights who settled in the area at the beginning of the 13th century). Our favourite was the Cēsis Castle and Museum :

• With the help of old-fashioned lanterns, you are free to explore the castle’s western tower by yourself.
• From May to September, workshops and a kitchen garden are staffed by locals dressed in medieval clothing who explain medieval crafts (for example, woodblock printing by the very passionate Viesturs Aboltins or straw hat making), traditional games and armour.
• Finally, a sizeable and super interesting museum awaits in the Manor House, explaining the history of the castle, of Cēsis and Latvia (make sure you use the leaflets provided in additional languages).

We spent several hours in the castle complex.

Cēsis Castle and Museum was our favourite historical site in the Gauja National Park

I wrote this Latvia itinerry and travel guide based on my own experience. If you have been to Latvia recently and have something to add to this list of affordable things to do, please feel free to contact me. If you liked my Latvia itinerary and tips and found them helpful, I would appreciateit  if you could share them with your friends and family via the Share buttons below. Even better, link to the page from your personal blog or social media platforms.

• Weather Guides For Every Country In The World
• Algeria: Two Week Journey
• Cairo Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Lesotho
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Best Time to Visit
• Entry Rules and Visa requirements
• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
• Dominican Republic
• Antigua and Barbuda
• El Salvador
• Afghanistan
• Bahrain Travel Guide
• The Cook Islands
• Aktau, Kazakhstan: Travel Guide and Tips
• Roadtrip in Western Kyrgyzstan
• Journey around Issyk-Kul
• Pakistan travel guide
• Albania Road Trip Guide
• Albania’s Entry Rules
• Yerevan Travel Guide
• Faroe Islands
• Suburbs of Paris
• Batumi Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Raves
• From Mestia to Ushguli (Svaneti) Trekking Route
• Transadjarian Highway
• Peloponesse Road Trip Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Venice Guide
• Modern Milanese architecture
• Budva Travel Guide: Montenegro’s main resort
• Montenegro Road Trip Guide
• Transylvania
• Yakutsk Travel Guide
• Journeying Through History: The BAM Railway Experience
• Veliky Ustyug Travel Guide: Meet the Ded Moroz
• Belgrade’s Cultural Guide
• Belgrade Off the Beaten Path
• Road Trip Guide
• Istanbul 🇹🇷: Hand-Painted Signs from a Century Ago
• From Grodno to Brest: a roadtrip
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Holy See (Vatican)
• Liechtenstein

Latvia: From Riga to the Countryside, A Complete Travel Guide

Whether you’re an adventurous spirit looking for your next thrill, a history buff wanting to dive into rich cultural tales, or simply someone who appreciates the art of leisure against beautiful landscapes, Latvia has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Latvia?

Natural beauty.

Latvia is a haven for nature lovers. Its rich topography includes sprawling forests that cover approximately 50% of the country, serene beaches along the Baltic Sea, and multiple national parks. Whether you’re interested in hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of unspoiled nature, Latvia offers an unparalleled experience.

Rich History and Culture

Dive into Latvia’s deep-rooted history and vibrant culture as you explore the country. Latvia’s past is a tapestry of various influences including German, Russian, and Scandinavian heritage. Visit the old town of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see architecture that spans several centuries, or take part in traditional Latvian festivals that celebrate the country’s unique customs and folklore.

Adventure Activities

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Latvia does not disappoint. The country offers a wide range of adventure activities such as bungee jumping, windsurfing, and even winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Explore the Gauja National Park for its adventure trails or experience kayaking in the Daugava River, Latvia has all the ingredients to make your adventurous heart soar.

Unbeatable Value for Money

One of the most appealing aspects of traveling to Latvia is the value for money. Unlike some other European destinations, your money goes a lot further in Latvia. From affordable but luxurious accommodations to delicious meals that won’t break the bank, Latvia is a perfect travel destination for budget-conscious explorers.

Accessibility

Getting around in Latvia is surprisingly easy. The public transportation system is efficient, and the country’s small size means that most destinations are just a short trip away. Whether by bus, train, or car, you’ll find it easy to navigate from one fascinating location to another, making it a convenient destination for travelers of all ages and mobility levels.

Top Destinations in Latvia

The capital city of Latvia, Riga, is a must-visit for anyone coming to the country. Its charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with medieval architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and vibrant outdoor cafes. Don’t miss the Riga Cathedral and the House of the Blackheads, two iconic landmarks that encapsulate the city’s rich history.

Just a short drive from Riga, Jurmala is famous for its beautiful Baltic Sea beaches and health spas. The town is a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury, offering visitors a chance to unwind in style. Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade or indulge in a therapeutic mud bath for the ultimate relaxation experience.

Gauja National Park

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a visit to Gauja National Park should be on your itinerary. The park is home to stunning natural landscapes including sandstone cliffs, caves, and a plethora of hiking trails. Whether you’re interested in trekking, rafting, or simply picnicking in the great outdoors, Gauja National Park offers a wide range of activities.

This charming medieval town is known for its well-preserved castle and scenic landscapes. The Cesis Castle offers an interactive historical experience, where visitors can light their way through dark passages with wax candles, just like in ancient times. The town also hosts an annual art festival that attracts artists and enthusiasts from all over the world.

Known as the “City of Music,” Liepaja offers a vibrant arts scene along with a unique mix of architectural styles. The city’s beach is another highlight, often cited as one of the best white-sand beaches in the Baltic region. Music lovers should not miss the annual Summer Sound festival, which attracts international artists and music fans alike.

Often called the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Sigulda is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, ancient castles, and adventure sports opportunities. The town is a hotspot for activities like bungee jumping, skiing, and tobogganing. A visit during the fall season will reward you with breathtaking views of the Gauja Valley awash in shades of gold and red.

This picturesque town is famous for its well-preserved wooden architecture and the widest waterfall in Europe, Ventas Rumba. Take a romantic stroll through the town’s old streets, and don’t forget to make a wish as you cross the ancient brick bridge, a tradition that has delighted visitors for years.

Each of these destinations offers a unique glimpse into Latvia’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture, making them must-visit spots for anyone looking to explore this Baltic gem.

Travel Itinerary Suggestions

3-day itinerary: riga city escape.

If you have just a few days, focus your trip on exploring Riga, the capital city. Start your journey with a walking tour of the old town to visit landmarks like the Riga Cathedral and the House of the Blackheads. On your second day, venture out to the Central Market to sample Latvian delicacies. Spend your final day taking a river cruise along the Daugava or visiting the Latvian National Museum of Art.

5-Day Itinerary: Riga and Jurmala Beach Holiday

Start your five-day trip with two days in Riga, covering its essential sights. On the third day, head to Jurmala, famous for its Baltic beaches and health spas. Here you can unwind and enjoy water activities. Spend a day at leisure in Jurmala before heading back to Riga for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping.

7-Day Itinerary: Discover Latvia’s Diversity

For a week-long adventure, start with two days in Riga, followed by a day trip to Cesis to explore its medieval castle. On the fourth day, drive to Gauja National Park for some outdoor activities. Spend the fifth day in Liepaja to enjoy its beaches and music scene. Dedicate the sixth day to Sigulda’s adventure sports or autumn foliage, and wrap up your trip with a relaxing day in Jurmala.

10-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate Latvian Experience

For those with more time, a 10-day itinerary allows you to delve deeper into what Latvia has to offer. Start with three days in Riga, taking day trips to nearby attractions like the Rundāle Palace. Head to Jurmala on the fourth day, and then continue to Liepaja for another two days. Spend days seven and eight in Gauja National Park and Cesis. Round off your journey with visits to Sigulda and Kuldiga before heading back to Riga.

These are just suggested itineraries and can be adjusted based on your interests and travel pace. Each offers a unique way to experience Latvia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse landscapes.

How to Get There

The primary gateway to Latvia is Riga International Airport, located about 10 km from the city center. It serves as a hub for several international airlines, offering direct flights from major European cities like London, Paris, and Berlin, as well as long-haul flights from select cities in North America and Asia.

While train services to Latvia are not as extensive as air routes, it’s possible to arrive by train from some neighboring countries. The Riga Central Railway Station connects Latvia to Russia and Estonia, with plans to extend routes to other European nations.

Several international bus lines operate services to Latvia from various European cities. These buses usually drop passengers at the Riga International Bus Station, which is conveniently located in the city center.

If you prefer the freedom of a road trip, entering Latvia by car is a viable option. The country shares land borders with Estonia to the north, Russia to the east, and Lithuania to the south. Major highways are well-maintained, making the drive relatively straightforward.

For those coming from Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Finland, ferry services to Riga are available. These ferries offer an alternative and more leisurely mode of travel, often with onboard amenities like restaurants and shopping.

Riga is also a frequent stop on Baltic Sea cruise itineraries. While this won’t be your point of entry into Latvia, it’s a convenient way to experience the capital city if you are exploring the region by sea.

No matter how you choose to arrive, getting to Latvia is increasingly convenient thanks to a growing range of transport options. Each mode of travel offers its own unique benefits, so you can choose the one that best suits your travel needs and preferences.

Local Transportation

Public buses.

Public buses are a popular way to get around within cities and towns in Latvia. The service is reliable and covers extensive routes, including residential areas, city centers, and even some rural locations. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks, onboard, or through mobile apps.

Trams and Trolleys

In Riga, trams and trolleybuses offer an alternative to buses. These are especially useful for navigating the city center and nearby neighborhoods. They run at regular intervals, and tickets can be bought at the same places as bus tickets.

For inter-city travel or a day trip from Riga to nearby towns like Jurmala and Sigulda, trains are an excellent option. They are generally comfortable and offer a scenic way to experience the Latvian countryside.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are readily available in most Latvian cities and can be hailed on the street or booked via a mobile app. Ride-sharing services like Bolt are also operational in Latvia, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Many Latvian cities are becoming increasingly bike-friendly. Bike rental stations are commonly found in major cities, and some towns offer dedicated bike paths. Cycling is an excellent way to explore areas at your own pace, especially during the warmer months.

Car Rentals

For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, car rental services are available at airports and city centers. While public transportation is efficient, having a car can be beneficial for exploring remote areas and smaller towns that are not easily accessible by train or bus.

Boats and Ferries

If you’re visiting coastal areas or islands, boats and ferries can be a convenient mode of transportation. In some cases, taking a boat can be not just practical but also a scenic way to explore Latvia’s waterways.

Choosing the right mode of local transportation can significantly impact your travel experience. Whether you’re looking for cost-effectiveness, convenience, or the chance to see Latvia from a unique perspective, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.

Accommodation

Latvia offers a range of hotel options to suit every budget and preference. In larger cities like Riga, you’ll find international hotel chains with luxurious amenities. For travelers on a budget, there are plenty of mid-range and budget hotels that provide clean and comfortable lodging.

Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts

For a more personalized experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or bed & breakfast. These establishments are usually family-run and offer a cozy, home-like atmosphere. They are a great way to experience Latvian hospitality and often include a hearty breakfast to start your day.

Young travelers or those looking for budget-friendly options may find hostels to be an ideal choice. Latvia’s hostels are generally well-maintained and offer both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations. Many also provide communal kitchens and social spaces where you can meet other travelers.

Apartments and Vacation Rentals

For longer stays or for those who prefer the comforts of home, apartments and vacation rentals are widely available. These options often come equipped with kitchens, laundry facilities, and sometimes even a garden or terrace. They are excellent for families or groups traveling together.

Rural Tourism and Farm Stays

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Latvia’s natural beauty, consider a rural tourism experience or a farm stay. These options provide a unique opportunity to live close to nature, often with the possibility of participating in activities like farming, fishing, or hiking.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Latvia has several well-equipped campgrounds, particularly near national parks and natural reserves. These are great options for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars and waking up to the sounds of nature.

Whether you’re a luxury traveler looking for top-notch amenities or a backpacker in search of a budget-friendly hostel, Latvia offers a diverse range of accommodation options to make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Local Cuisine

Traditional dishes.

Latvian cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s agricultural heritage, featuring seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. Staples include pork, potatoes, and rye bread. Don’t miss trying “karbonāde,” a breaded pork cutlet, or “sklandrausis,” a sweet pie made of rye dough filled with potatoes and carrots.

Soups and Stews

Latvians have a strong tradition of making hearty soups and stews, perfect for the colder months. Popular options include “sorrel soup,” made from sour leaves of the sorrel plant, and “zelņu zupa,” a cabbage soup often prepared with smoked meats.

Dairy Products

Latvia has a rich dairy tradition, and products like cheese and yogurt are integral to the local diet. “Jāņu siers,” a caraway seed cheese, is a special treat often prepared for the Latvian midsummer celebration, Jāņi.

Given its location along the Baltic Sea, seafood is prevalent in Latvian cuisine. Smoked fish, particularly herring, is a common dish often served with potatoes or in salads.

Sweets and Desserts

Latvians have a sweet tooth, and you’ll find a variety of pastries, cakes, and desserts. “Alexander Torte” is a popular layered pastry filled with raspberry or black currant jam, named after Russian Tsar Alexander I.

When it comes to beverages, beer is extremely popular in Latvia, and the country has a burgeoning craft beer scene. For non-alcoholic options, “kvass,” a fermented beverage made from rye bread, is widely consumed. Also, don’t forget to try “Riga Black Balsam,” a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur.

From upscale restaurants in Riga offering modern takes on traditional Latvian cuisine to cozy countryside inns serving homemade meals, dining out in Latvia is a treat. Many restaurants focus on using local, organic ingredients, making it a great destination for foodies.

Whether you’re sampling smoked fish by the sea or enjoying a hearty stew in a rural inn, the flavors of Latvia are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.

Travel Tips

Currency and payments.

The currency used in Latvia is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or when traveling in rural areas. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

Euro current exchange rates

• 100 EUR = $110.32 or $1 = 0.91 Euro

Other currencies:

• 100 EUR = 85.23 British Pounds
• 100 EUR = 165.39 Australian Dollar
• 100 EUR = 151.02 Canadian Dollar
• 100 EUR = 1,168.77 Swedish Krona
• 100 EUR = 426.60 Polish Zloty
• 100 EUR = 2,519.73 Czech Koruna
• 100 EUR = 148,921.95 South Korean Won
• 100 EUR = 790.41 Chinese Yuan
• 100 EUR = 16,288.56 Japanese Yen

The official language is Latvian, but many people in tourist areas and younger individuals are fluent in English. Learning a few basic phrases in Latvian can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.

Weather and Clothing

Latvia experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Packing should be season-appropriate, and it’s always a good idea to carry layers for sudden weather changes. Don’t forget an umbrella for occasional rain showers.

Latvia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, like in any destination, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, especially in crowded places and late at night.

Health and Insurance

While healthcare facilities are generally good, it’s advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies. If you’re an EU citizen, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will grant you access to necessary medical services.

Local Etiquette

Latvians are known for being polite and somewhat reserved. When entering someone’s home, it’s customary to remove your shoes. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated, usually around 10% of the bill in restaurants.

Public Holidays and Working Hours

It’s worth noting the public holidays in Latvia as many businesses and attractions may be closed. Also, shopping hours may vary, especially in smaller towns, so plan accordingly.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and public areas. Local SIM cards can be purchased for mobile data and calls, which could be a cost-effective option for staying connected.

Sustainable Travel

Latvia offers a wealth of natural beauty, from its national parks to its coastline. Be mindful of your environmental impact by adhering to sustainable travel practices like avoiding single-use plastics and respecting local wildlife.

Useful Websites

• Latvia Travel Official Website – The official tourism portal of Latvia, offering comprehensive information on attractions, activities, and accommodation.
• Riga Travel Guide – A dedicated website for Riga, providing detailed guides on what to see, do, and eat in the capital city.
• TripAdvisor: Latvia – User-generated reviews and recommendations on hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Latvia.
• Rome2rio – Provides various transportation options for getting to and around Latvia.
• Lonely Planet: Latvia – A reputable travel guide offering articles, tips, and itineraries for Latvia.
• Seat 61: Latvia – A valuable resource for those considering train travel to or within Latvia.
• AccuWeather: Latvia – Provides weather forecasts to help you plan your trip better.
• Booking.com: Latvia – A popular platform for booking hotels, hostels, and other types of accommodations in Latvia.
• AirBaltic – The main airline operating in Latvia, offering flights to and from various international destinations.
• Culture Trip: Latvia – Articles and recommendations focusing on Latvian culture, food, and experiences.
• XE.com – Currency conversion website, useful for converting your home currency to Euros.
• CDC Travel Health Notices for Latvia – Health and safety information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, specific to travel in Latvia.

Latvia is a gem waiting to be discovered, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. From its historic cities to its natural splendors, this Baltic nation serves as a delightful blend of the old and the new. With various options for accommodation, a delectable local cuisine, and a reliable network of transportation, it promises a hassle-free and enriching travel experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply looking to relax and take in the beauty, Latvia has something to offer.

No related posts.

• Guide: How To Get Late Checkout At Hotels
• Delicious Vegan Ramen in Sapporo, Japan: Fukunoki

A Guide to World of Hyatt Milestone Rewards (2024 Update)

• Earn $40 (or 4,000 Amex Points) by Joining Rakuten
• Conrad New York Midtown Leaving Hilton

Latvia Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

by Samanta Vaivade | Apr 12, 2023

Nestled in the picturesque Baltic region of Northern Europe, my homeland of Latvia offers a captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. This gem of a country is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, sprawling forests, and a lively, modern urban scene — not that I’m biased. 😉

As a native of Riga who spent several years studying in Amsterdam, I’ve come to appreciate the unique beauty and charm of my home country. In this comprehensive guide to visiting Latvia, I’ll share my insights into Latvia’s must-see destinations and its unique culture while providing practical tips for making the most of your time in our little piece of Northern Europe.

In this post:

How to find Latvia on the map

Latvia is a small yet charming country situated in Northern Europe. It is commonly associated with the Baltic states and holds a strategic location in the region. To be more precise, Latvia lies on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, nestled between Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. It shares its eastern borders with Russia and Belarus, while the Baltic Sea stretches along its western coast.

Though some might assume Latvia is part of Eastern Europe due to its historical occupation by the Soviet Union and border with Russia, our geographical location and cultural ties place us more firmly within the Northern European region.

The Baltics and Nordic countries share strong ties including through the political Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) grouping of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden. Latvia’s position at the crossroads of various historical and cultural influences has shaped its unique identity, creating a fascinating blend of traditions, languages, and architectural styles.

Latvia and the Schengen Zone

Latvia is a member of the Schengen Zone, which means that visitors from other Schengen countries can travel to Latvia without the need for a visa.

For non-Schengen citizens, there are visa waiver agreements with a large number of countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and others that allow entry to the Schengen for up to 90 days without applying for a visa. For others, a short-stay visa may be required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Long-term stays may require a different type of visa or residence permit, depending on your purpose for visiting Latvia. If you’re not sure whether you need a visa or not, you can look up what visas you need using Sherpa here .

Being a part of the Schengen Zone offers significant advantages for travelers, as it allows for seamless travel between the participating countries, without the need for passport checks at internal borders. This makes exploring Latvia and its neighbors a breeze. You can easily explore Latvia and other Northern European countries in one trip without worrying about needing additional visas.

Latvia’s currency

Latvia’s currency is the Euro (€). Latvia entered the Eurozone and adopted the Euro in 2014. Prior to 2014, Latvia’s national currency was the Latvian lats (LVL). The switch to the Euro was a significant milestone for Latvia, as it marked the country’s integration into the European Union’s economic and monetary system.

Euros can easily be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs, which are widely available throughout the country. It’s generally not a good idea to bring cash to exchange when traveling. You’re much better off withdrawing funds using an ATM card that does not charge you fees and reimburses fees charged by the ATM machine owner. Major credit cards are widely accepted in Latvia. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially in more rural areas or smaller establishments.

Must-see Destinations in Latvia

By exploring Latvia’s must-see destinations, you’ll discover a country filled with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling city of Riga to the serene national parks and charming coastal towns, Latvia offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a fan of architecture, Latvia’s popular cities and attractions, as well as its UNESCO World Heritage sites and natural wonders, are sure to captivate you.

But take the time to venture beyond Riga and the well-trodden tourist paths to explore Latvia’s lesser-known gems. Many picturesque coastal villages, ancient hill forts, and countless manors and castles dot the country. No matter where your journey takes you, Latvia’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The bustling capital of Riga is a must-visit destination in Latvia, offering a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Riga is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and a charming Old Town filled with historic churches, narrow cobblestone streets, and lively squares.

The city offers a vibrant mix of cultural events, world-class dining, and exciting nightlife, making it a perfect destination for those seeking urban adventures. Don’t forget to explore Riga’s best Instagram spots to capture your memories in this picturesque city and check out our guide to coffee shops in Riga if you need a pick-me-up.

Located along the coast of the Gulf of Riga, Jurmala is Latvia’s premier seaside resort town, known for its stunning beaches in the summer, therapeutic mineral waters, and lush pine forests. With a charming mix of historic wooden villas and modern architecture, Jurmala is a relaxing getaway just a short drive from Riga.

3. Kemeri National Park

Kemeri National Park, located near Jurmala, is known for its unique wetlands, including vast swamps, mineral springs, and peat bogs. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including rare bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching. Don’t miss the park’s Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk, which offers an accessible and picturesque way to explore the park’s unique landscapes.

4. Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park, the largest and oldest of Latvia’s national parks, offers a stunning array of natural and cultural attractions. The park is home to picturesque river valleys, dense forests, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, enjoy canoeing or rafting on the Gauja River, or visit the historic castles and manors scattered throughout the park.

Nestled in the heart of Gauja National Park, the historic town of Cesis boasts a beautifully preserved medieval castle, picturesque parks, and charming cobblestone streets. The town is also a gateway to outdoor adventures in the surrounding Gauja Valley, including hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching.

Liepaja, often referred to as the “city of wind,” is known for its vibrant music scene, striking architecture, and sandy beaches. Visit the unique Karosta district, a former Soviet military base turned into a cultural and artistic hub, and explore the city’s many art galleries, museums, and live music venues.

7. Rundāle Palace

Rundāle Palace, often called the “Versailles of the Baltics,” is a stunning Baroque and Rococo architectural masterpiece located in southern Latvia. The palace, designed by the renowned architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, features magnificent gardens and opulent interiors that are open to the public for tours.

8. Turaida Castle and Museum Reserve

Located in the heart of Gauja National Park, Turaida Castle is a beautifully preserved medieval fortress with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The surrounding Turaida Museum Reserve features several historic buildings, including a wooden church, a manor house, and a sculpture park, offering visitors a glimpse into Latvia’s cultural heritage.

When to Visit Latvia

Best times of the year for weather and tourism.

The best time to visit Latvia depends on your preferences and interests, as each season offers its own unique charm and beauty. Generally, late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are considered the most favorable periods for travel, as the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. These months also see fewer tourists, allowing you to explore Latvia’s attractions without the crowds.

Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures and long daylight hours, making it an ideal time for beach trips and outdoor activities. Riga, Jūrmala, and other popular destinations are lively during this season, with numerous events and festivals taking place. However, the summer months can also be quite busy, so it’s important to book accommodations and activities well in advance.

Holidays and Festivals in Latvia

There are a variety of holidays and festivals in Latvia throughout the year, which can make your visit even more memorable. Some notable events include:

• Līgo and Jāņi (Midsummer) – Celebrated on June 23rd and 24th, this ancient pagan festival marks the summer solstice with bonfires, singing, and traditional rituals.
• Riga City Festival – Held in August, this multi-day event celebrates Riga’s founding with live music, performances, and various cultural activities.
• Staro Rīga (Festival of Lights) – Taking place in November, Staro Rīga transforms the city with colorful light installations, illuminating Riga’s historic buildings and landmarks.
• Rigas Ritmi Festival – This annual music festival, held in June or July, focuses on jazz, world music, and other genres, featuring both local and international artists performing at various venues throughout Riga.

For more information about the various festivals in Latvia throughout the year, check out our complete guide to the festivals and holidays in Latvia you should put on your calendar .

Off-peak Travel Recommendations

For travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, consider visiting Latvia during the off-peak seasons of late autumn (November) or early spring (March to April). While the weather may be cooler and less predictable, you’ll find fewer tourists at popular attractions. As in many places, shoulder season allows for a more intimate exploration of Latvia’s sights. Hotels and other accommodations may also offer discounted rates during these periods, providing an opportunity to enjoy Latvia’s offerings at a lower price with fewer visitors.

Tips for Going Out in Latvia

Latvia offers an exciting nightlife scene, especially in the capital city of Riga. From trendy bars to lively nightclubs, there are plenty of places to enjoy a night out in the country.

Best places for nightlife and entertainment

Riga is the heart of Latvia’s nightlife. There’s a wide variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from in the capital. Some popular spots include Rock Café , with its diversity of rooms with different music views of the city, and the vibrant Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs , which offers live music and traditional Latvian beer. If you are looking for a more house music vibe go to FIRST Club .

Latvians love to go out. You can find smaller but lively nightlife scenes in other cities like Daugavpils and Liepaja but they will be harder to find.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NIGHT CLUB IN RIGA (@firstofficial)

How to meet Latvian women: the dating scene

Latvians are generally friendly and open to meeting new people. However, they may initially seem reserved, and it can take some time to build trust and establish a connection. The dating scene in Latvia is quite diverse, with people looking for everything from one-night stands and casual flings to serious relationships.

What are Latvian girls like?

Latvian women might be known for natural beauty with lithe features paired with strong and independent personalities, but that’s not all there is to Latvian women. 😉 Did you know that Latvia has the highest proportion of women inventors in Europe ? From 2010-2019, 30.6% of Latvia’s inventors were women.

They have a unique blend of Baltic and Slavic features that give them a distinctive appearance. Education is highly valued in Latvia. Latvian women outpace Latvian men in educational achievements so many are well-educated and multilingual, making it easier for them to communicate with international visitors.

While Latvian women are breaking barriers, traditional gender roles are still prevalent in Latvian society. In general, Latvian women tend to be more submissive than the women western men may be used to in Western Europe or North America. However, that doesn’t mean Latvian women are easy — to get to know one you’ll need to develop a genuine connection.

Do Latvian girls like international men?

Yes, many Latvian women are open to meeting international men. As Latvia has become more integrated into the global community, Latvians have become more accustomed to interacting with people from different cultures. Latvian women in their twenties, thirties, and forties are usually proficient in English, having learned it in school and university. We regularly speak English at work and watch shows and movies in English.

Many Latvian girls my age have relationships or less serious entanglements with men from abroad. This kind of international exchange is increasingly common so it’s not unusual to walk around Riga and see a Latvian girl out with a visiting guy from abroad. Latvian women are open for new experiences and enjoy learning about different cultural backgrounds so many of us are open to broadening our horizons by dating international men.

But to make a genuine connection with your Latvian interest, it’s always to approach these relationships with respect and a genuine interest in learning about Latvian culture (rest assured, your Latvian infatuation will almost certainly be interested in your culture as well).

How do I meet Latvian women in Latvia?

There are several ways to meet Latvian women in Latvia. Here are a few suggestions:

a. Online dating apps: Popular dating apps like Tinder and Bumble can help you connect with local women who are interested in meeting international men. This approach allows you to start building relationships before you even arrive in Latvia. If you’re looking for something even more casual than Tinder, Pure can be a good option. Raya is not very common in Latvia.

b. Social events and nightlife: Latvia has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in the capital, Riga. Bars, clubs, and local cafes are great places to meet local women. Be open and friendly, and don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. As the day progresses into the night, you can be more direct in your approach, especially when visiting nightclubs and bars in popular areas such as 11. Novembra Krastmala, 13. Janvara Iela, and Centrs.

c. Language exchange groups : Participating in language exchange events is another excellent way to meet Latvian women. These events are designed to help locals and foreigners practice their language skills while making new friends. Look for language exchange groups/events in major cities like Riga, Jurmala, and Liepaja.

d. Volunteer opportunities and cultural events: Latvia has a strong sense of community, and volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded locals. In addition, attending cultural events, festivals, and concerts can also help you connect with Latvian women who share your interests.

When approaching Latvian women, it is essential to be patient, confident, and genuinely interested in getting to know the person.

During the daytime, a good way to approach Latvian women to strike up a conversation is by asking for help or engaging in light-hearted discussions. Avoid using clichéd pickup lines or making inappropriate or aggressive advances, as this can come across as disrespectful and offensive. Latvian women are intelligent and discerning when it comes to dating and relationships, so any perceived flaws in your personality or approach can lead them to withdraw. However, don’t let rejection discourage you; maintain your confidence and keep trying. Latvian women aren’t a monolith and what doesn’t interest one woman is likely to be attractive to another.

What about Latvian men?

Latvian men, on the other hand, are often described as being more reserved and introverted. They may be more passive and less likely to approach women in social settings. This could be one of the reasons why Latvian women are open to meeting international men. However, single international women might find Latvia interesting as well. While they may not be as outgoing, Latvian men are also known for their strong work ethic and sense of responsibility. While Latvia has its share of players, most Latvian men settle down once they meet the one.

Interesting facts about Latvia

What language do latvians speak.

Latvian, one of the two surviving Baltic languages, is the official language of Latvia. It shares linguistic roots with Lithuanian and is written using the Latin script. The Latvian language is known for its rich melodic and phonetic features, making it pleasant to the ear. It’s important to note that the Latvian language uses intonation which is essential to understanding the meaning of a sentence.

While many Latvians speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Latvian. Downloading a translation app or carrying a small phrasebook can also be helpful for communication.

We don’t speak Russian in Latvia

During a recent trip to Latvia to visit my family, I had an encounter with a British man who attempted to impress me by greeting and complimenting me in Russian. Unfortunately for him, his effort fell flat. As a Latvian woman, I don’t appreciate being expected to speak Russian, the language of our former occupiers. That feeling is shared by most native Latvians throughout the country.

While some Latvians speak Russian, it’s not our main language and it’s not something that we want to be stereotyped with. Although I happen to be fluent in Russian, I’m proud of Latvia’s unique language and don’t want to be confused with Russia. If you want to impress a Latvian woman, or any Latvian, don’t assume we speak Russian or associate us with Russia. Instead, take the time to learn some words or phrases in Latvian.

Popular foods in Latvia

Latvian cuisine is a delightful mix of traditional and modern influences, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Some popular Latvian dishes include:

• Rye bread (rupjmaize): A staple of Latvian cuisine, this dark, hearty bread is often enjoyed with butter, cheese, or smoked meats.
• Grey peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi): A traditional Latvian dish featuring boiled grey peas cooked with diced bacon and onions. This dish is often associated with Christmas for Latvians.
• Cold beet soup (aukstā zupa): A refreshing summer soup made with beets, cucumbers, dill, and buttermilk, often served with a side of boiled potatoes.
• Pīrāgi: Small crescent-shaped pastries filled with bacon and onions, usually served at celebrations and family gatherings.

Accommodation Options in Latvia

Latvia offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget hostels, you’ll be sure to find a comfortable place to rest during your stay.

Hotel options

Budget, mid-range, and luxury Budget hotels provide basic amenities at an affordable price, while mid-range hotels offer a good balance between comfort and cost. Luxury hotels provide top-notch services, and modern facilities, and often boast prime locations. Probably the most well-known luxury hotel in Riga is the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga . While Kempinski is not well-known in the United States and this property is not bookable with points, the Switzerland-based chain is well-regarded in Europe.

Other options include a Pullman, Hilton Garden Inn, AC Hotels by Marriott, and Mercure.

Alternative accommodations

For a more affordable or unique lodging experience, consider staying in a hostel, guesthouse, or booking an Airbnb. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, making them an excellent choice for budget travelers and solo adventurers. Guesthouses provide a more intimate experience, often with the opportunity to interact with local hosts. Airbnb listings can range from private rooms to entire apartments, allowing you to tailor your accommodation to your needs and preferences. If you book an Airbnb, don’t forget to earn airline miles for your Airbnb stay .

General Safety Tips for Travelers

Latvia is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s not Japan. It’s essential to follow standard safety precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night.

Is it safe to visit Latvia?

Yes, Latvia is safe for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes against tourists are rare. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas, so it’s essential to stay vigilant and secure your belongings like you would on any trip.

What about Russia’s War on Ukraine?

Latvia has been a leader in showing support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s unprovoked attack on its neighbor. You’ll see that the moment you enter Latvia with the Ukrainian flag’s colors displayed throughout the country. However, while there’s a horrifying war raging, Latvia itself remains safe.

Latvia is a member of NATO and the European Union providing a level of security and stability. While it’s crucial to stay informed about current events and follow any advice or warnings from your government while traveling, visiting Latvia isn’t any more dangerous than visiting other developed countries in Europe.

Transportation in Latvia

Latvia offers various transportation options, including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars. Public transit is generally reliable and affordable, with Riga having an extensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Renting a car provides flexibility to explore the country at your own pace but be prepared for varying road conditions and driving practices.

The major airport in Latvia is Riga International Airport (RIX) which is the primary hub for Latvia’s flag carrier, airBaltic . RyanAir also operates a base in Riga. From Riga Airport, you can find flights to many key destinations around Europe. Major carriers flying to Riga include Finnair , Turkish Airlines , LOT Polish Airlines , and Lufthansa .

Bottom Line

Latvia is a captivating destination with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From exploring medieval castles to enjoying the bustling nightlife in Riga, there’s something for everyone in this charming Baltic nation. By understanding the local customs, respecting the people and their traditions, and taking necessary safety precautions, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in Latvia. So pack your bags, brush up on your Latvian phrases, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting country.

Related Posts

Review: Cape Fahn Hotel, Koh Samui, Thailand (Private Island!)

Middle East Airlines Narrowly Avoids Disaster After Flight Struck By Stray Bullet in Beirut

Japan Airlines To Move To JFK Terminal 8, Co-Locate With American Airlines

Party Where You Stay: Hyatt Announces Dream Hotel Group Acquisition

i like to visit Latvia

Thank you for all the details you have provided about your wonderful Country, would surely love to visit and enjoy the beautiful places.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

How To Get A Free Hotel Breakfast: Complete Guide to Elite Breakfast Benefits (And Which One Is Best)

What are the benefits of marriott bonvoy silver status, how does the ihg one rewards breakfast benefit for diamond members work, introduction: midwinter kosher getaway to athens and jerusalem, the ultimate guide to marriott bonvoy titanium status.

• Where to Stay?
• What to Do?
• Tips & Tricks
• Contact Us
• Work With Us

33 Top Things to Do in Latvia (Apart from Visiting Riga)

• by Kaspars Misins
• Best Things to Do , Latvia
• 08/05/2022 29/02/2024
• 20 min read

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

Just 20 years ago barely any foreigners were visiting Latvia.

While now situation has changed significantly, for many Latvia still stays as an unexplored and unknown corner of Europe, one of the 15 post-Soviet countries. What to do in Latvia you’ll ask? Well, there are a lot of things to do in Latvia. Just read this article, see this list of the best things to do in Latvia and you’ll have plenty of inspiration! Latvia isn’t big and even in a week you’ll see a lot. Though, it’s definitely not a problem to spend 2 weeks in Latvia .

For many, who travel to Latvia, it’s often just one of the countries on the trip around the Baltics. And Riga, the capital of Latvia, often is their only stop. I urge you to go and explore Latvia!

RELATED:   25 Top Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Latvia – What to Do in Latvia

While working on this article I also started a discussion on our Facebook group for Latvian travelers, asking people about the places they would recommend others to visit in Latvia. And here I’m presenting you the outcome –  list of the best things to do in Latvia, as recommended by locals!

1. Celebrate Midsummer in Latvia

Latvia’s most important annual holiday isn’t Christmas or New Year.

It’s the summer solstice, locally called as Līgo or Jāņi (both names are used equally often). Many will agree, that it’s among the top 3 best things to do in Latvia. Ligo celebration is a pagan tradition, which has been kept alive for more than thousand years. Following traditions you should stay awake for the whole night – shortest night of the year – to greet the rising sun. Bonfires are being lit all around the country.

Public events often happen in parks. Though, many choose to celebrate in smaller groups, together with their families and friends. People are singing and dancing, jumping over the bonfires, eating a lot, drinking beer and overall having a good time.

Midsummer in Latvia is being celebrated on the same day (night) every year – the night from June 23 to June 24 . So, in fact, 2 days after the actual date of summer solstice.

If you have a chance join some private party! Or go to some smaller town, for example to Jaunpiebalga.

There is a lot of interesting, unique and fun things to do in Latvia. If this will be your first time traveling to Latvia, I recommend you to read our Latvia Travel Guide first!

2. Attend the Sea Festival

It’s an annual holiday, celebrated in coastal towns and cities.

Date of the celebration varies, but usually it’s on one of the first Saturdays of July. Locally called either Jūras svētki (sea festival) or Zvejnieksvētki (fishermen festival).

Where to go?  Liepaja or Salacgriva. But these aren’t the only options.

3. Visit Ragaciems and Try Freshly Smoked Fish

Ragaciems is an ancient fishermen village, where you can try some freshly smoked fish.

You can either buy it as a takeaway, and go for example to the beach and have a picnic. Or you can go to a local cafe.

It’s not the only place. There are more small fishing villages on the coast. But it’s just not too far away from Riga, and so it’s easily reachable also by public bus.

4. Go on a Coastal Hike

What to see in Latvia? Its nature.

Latvia has a coastline of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles). Enough for a couple of weeks of hiking, huh? I would say that going on a coastal hike is among the top 5 things to do in Latvia.

Few ideas for a beautiful coastal hike in Latvia:

• Kolka – Roja , about 30 kilometers. Or if you don’t feel like walking this much – finish at Purciems. Most beautiful part of this hike is the first leg. You can get a bus from Purciems back to Riga. Only note, that there only a few buses a day.
• Tuja – Vitrupe , about 20 kilometers. You’ll see the Rocky seashore of Vidzeme and Veczemju Rock.
• Liepaja – border of Latvia and Lithuania , about 50 kilometers.
• Area of Jurkalne Seashore Bluffs . Another picturesque part of Latvia’s coastline.
• Mersrags – Berzciems, about 10 kilometers.
• Area of Saulkrasti . One of its landmarks is The White Dune.
• Kaltene – Mersrags , about 20 kilometers.
• Uzava – Jurkalne , about 25 kilometers.
• Kolka – Mazirbe , about 20 kilometers.

Basically, you can walk everywhere, and you will find something interesting. But these are some of the best parts.

5. Go Canoeing or Rafting on River Gauja

Gauja is the longest river in Latvia. And it’s the most popular river for canoeing, kayaking and rafting in Latvia.

There are many companies you can rent a boat or raft from, and most of them will also provide transportation. All of these companies will also be able to suggest you several possible routes, whether you have a few hours or few days of time.

One company that we can recommend –  Ramkalni . If you want to rent a raft, here is one option !

6. Visit Sigulda

Located just 50 kilometers away from Riga, Sigulda is one of the top places to visit in Latvia.

Many already know Sigulda, and many visit it, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latvia.

And not without a reason. Some go there because of Gauja National Park, others are interested in nearby castles. What else attracts a large number of locals and tourists – all the fun activities you can do there, like kayaking, bungee jumping, hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing (during the winter).

There are frequent buses and trains going between Riga and Sigulda. If you are taking a bus, note that not all of them enter the town. Some stop on the highway, roughly 1.5 kilometers from the town center.

Best time for visit? Summer, autumn (end of September, October; to see autumn colors), winter (January, February; when there is a higher chance of snow).

7. Go for a Hike at Gauja National Park

You can just hike without following any particular route.

Alternatively – you can follow one of the trails. There are at least several trails starting from Sigulda. All of these are half day / day hikes, not longer than 15 kilometers.

Read more about hiking in options here !

8. Visit Ligatne & Ligatne Nature Trails

Ligatne Nature Trails aren’t long, only about 5 kilometers in total. But apart from being a good exercise in a place surrounded by beautiful Latvia’s nature, it’s also your chance to see some of the wild mammals living in Latvia.

All of the wild animals brought there are rescue animals, that can’t survive without being looked after by humans.

9. Go on a Unique Ziplide Ride – Z-Eagle

Watch the video and you will understand, what it is!

Currently it’s one of the few such attractions in the world.

A ride for single person costs 55 EUR, two person – 95 EUR.

For the latest offers check out their website!

10. Cycle from Sigulda to Ligatne

And another activity in the same area of Gauja National park.

There is a trail all the way from Sigulda to Ligatne following river Gauja. Rent a bicycle and go and explore! Return trip will be approximately 30 kilometers long and may take up to 8 – 10 hours, if you aren’t used to this kind of terrain, which is mostly gravel.

11. Visit Jurmala

Short train ride away from Riga is Latvia’s most popular resort town. When Latvia was still part of the Soviet Union, Jurmala was one of the most popular tourism destination for high-ranking Communist Party officials. It’s a beautiful coastal city. Speaking about the beach – if you want something more than just sunbathing it’s much better choice than other beaches near Riga.

You can also cycle from Riga to Jurmala, as there is a bikeway. Total distance (round trip): about 60 kilometers. Or you can cycle there and take a train back.

A company called Sixt has self-service bike rental points both in Riga and Jurmala.

12. Visit Rundale Palace

Built in the 18th century and renovated in 2014 Rundale palace is the most impressive baroque palace in Latvia.

The park that surrounds the palace is an impressive landmark itself. It’s one of only few baroque parks in Europe, that has been preserved so well it looks almost like it looked centuries ago.

When to go? Any time is good. But summer is the best. Middle of May is interesting because of the blooming of the tulips and some other flowers. More than 90 sorts of tulips are planted by the castle.

More information: rundale.net .

13. Check Out Liepaja Fortress

Built from 1893 to 1906 Liepaja fortress was an impressive coastline fortification system, that was abandoned just a few years later. Now it’s more like an old forgotten reminder about the these times.

Guided tours are being offered at Liepaja Fortress. And it gives you a chance to walk through subterranean pathways and bunkers.

Read more about tours here !

14. Become a Prisoner for a Day at Karosta Prison

And here’s another, more unique experience you can have in Liepaja – an overnight stay at the Karosta Prison.

It was an actual prison until 1997, but now it’s open to tourists. For some time already it has been the only military prison in Europe open to tourists.

If you don’t want to stay overnight, but would like to go on an excursion to the Karosta Prison, there is such a possibility as well.

For more information, opening hours and to book a tour or an overnight stay go to their website !

15. Go for a Walk in One of Latvia’s Many Swamps

Swamp walking nowadays is possible in many places in Latvia.

Special routes have been developed and wooden paths have been built. In some places there are also special bird watching towers and observation platforms. A visit to swamp, in my opinion, is among the top 5 things to do in Latvia.

For a truly out-of-this-world experience go to the swamp for a sunrise. It may require you to set up your alarm for 2-3 AM, but it’s totally worth it. Unless it’s raining and the sky is cloudy.

Few places where to go:  Cenas Tirelis, Kemeri National Park, Cuzas bog near Kandava, Ložmetējkalns hill and its observation platform.

Latvians like swamps, and so now there are more and more people cross country skiing across the swamps in winter and paddleboarding through its waterways in summer. Google and you’ll probably find someone, who can help you to organize such an adventure as well! Guys over at purvabrideji.lv are organizing swamp walking tours, if you want to get off the wooden paths and see something more than most see.

16. Experience Traditional Latvian Sauna

Sauna culture in Latvia dates back to the 19th century, when every family had their own bathhouse.

Nowadays for many it’s not that much about washing the body as it is about relaxation. It’s common in Latvia to rent a house with sauna for different celebrations together with friends, family or colleagues.

Go for black sauna if you want to have a truly unique experience. One of the places, where you can experience it is Jaunzageri . They are located by the river Gauja in the Gauja National Park and offer boat trips as well. Note, that it’s just one of the many places.

In case you’re wondering if that’s an actual sauna in the photo above – yes, it is. And the place is called Pitagi . That’s in Kosrags, near Cape Kolka.

17. Picking Wild Berries and Mushrooms with a Local

What to do in Latvia? Well, you can go to the forest after some berries and mushrooms!

Isn’t it dangerous to pick mushrooms, you will ask. And – aren’t there poisonous mushrooms in Latvia? There are also poisonous mushrooms in Latvia, like everywhere in the world. And they are really dangerous! But there are also a lot of good ones. And most of Latvians can easily recognize the good ones, at least a few types.

Go with a local and have a great new experience!

How to find a local, who could help me? You can try online forums, Couchsurfing or Facebook groups. Many Latvians speak English.

18. Attend Latvian Song and Dance Festival

The Latvian Song and Dance Festival is among the most important cultural events in Latvia.

It’s something that everyone knows about. Festival happens every five years. About 40 000 singers and dancers took part in the festival in 2013. Yes, 40 000. That’s about the size of the population of one average-sized Latvian city. Check out Youtube videos to see, what a spectacular event it is.

If you decide to attend it, be sure to follow the information about when the ticket sales start. Because these tickets sell out very fast.

19. Try Riga Black Balsam

Riga Black Balsam is a strong (45%) traditional Latvian herbal liqueur.

You can drink it as it is or, for example, mixed with tea. It’s being made since the middle of 18th century.

You can also buy it at almost any supermarket in Latvia.

20. Hike All the Way Around Latvia

The trail all around Latvia is being prepared and marked for more than a year right already. And works are expected to be finished by the 18th of November, 2018, when Latvia will be celebrating its 100th anniversary of country’s founding.

Currently and, as expected, also for some time afterwards you’ll need to camp at nights for most of the time. As there are no that many guest houses along the trail. Let’s see how the situation changes after a few years!

Total distance – 1836 kilometers.

You can see the route on this site !

21. Visit Kuldiga

Kuldiga is a historical town in the Kurzeme region, dating back to 13th century.

It’s a small and charming town, that I recommend you to simply wander around. Chances are you will feel like have traveled back in time.

Venta Rapid, Europe’s widest waterfall, is in Kuldiga.

You can visit Kuldiga on your way from Riga to Ventspils or Liepaja.

22. Visit Cesis

Cesis is another charming, historical town in Latvia, that you should try to visit.

Being just a 40 minute train ride away from Sigulda makes it a perfect day trip destination both from Riga (total travel time less than 2 hours) and Sigulda.

If you have a chance, try to visit one of the theatrical programs at Cesis Castle. For example, Medieval feast .

23. Visit the Recreation Complex “Raksi”

Few kilometers away from Cesis is recreation complex “Raksi”. Apart from different sports and entertainment activities you can do here, it’s also a zoo. The only zoo in Latvia, where you can see South American llamas, alpacas and guanaco. Could be one more reason to visit Cesis?

If you decide to stay at Raksi for more than a few hours, there are several hotels, holiday cottages and camping sites not far away.

24. Walk the Amata Geology Trail

Hiking the Amata Geological trail is yet another chance for you to see more of Latvia’s wild nature.

Trail can be walked and will be interesting both in summer and winter. If you’ll come in early spring you may see kayakers on the rapids of river Amata.

If you like to spend time outdoors – good for you – there are a lot of short, marked trails in Latvia. For some ideas check out the map on dodies.lv . Most of Latvia’s trails, camping sites and observation towers are marked on this map.

25. Visit Park of Senses in Valmiera

One of the reasons why I personally would go to the Park of Senses is because of their Trail in the Trees.

I just like these kind of attractions. Another reason would be to walk the Barefoot trail. But that’s not all they are offering.

For more information check out their website !

26. Visit Latgale

Latgale is a region of Latvia in the eastern part of the country. It’s one of the 4 historical regions of Latvia. And because of many small and few bigger lakes scattered all around the region, locally it’s known also as the Land of Blue Lakes.

If you are traveling to Latvia in summer and you are interested in nature, just rent a car in Riga and go on a road trip to Latgale! If it’s winter and there is a lot of snow, do the same and you’ll not be disappointed.

I would say, that such a road trip is clearly one of the best things to do in Latvia. It shows you another face of Latvia, something completely different from what you can see in Riga, which is more like any other European capital.

Some places you might want to visit: Rezekne, Daugavpils, Aglona, Kraslava, Lake Lubans.

27. See the Stameriena Castle

Traveling to the eastern part of Latvia, take a small detour and visit this beautiful castle settled between two lakes.

Not many people know about the place, because of its location – off the main roads – but that doesn’t make it less attractive for a short stop and walk around the area.

28. Pay a Visit to the Deer Park Mežsētas

Located even more to the east of Latvia, in a place that even locals struggle to find, is a large deer park.

In an area of 200 hectares more than 300 species of deer are living. There are 15 observation platforms in the area, making it more like sure, that you’ll see these beautiful animals.

Getting there: Take the road P36 from Gulbene to Rezekne and shortly before crossing river Pededze turn to the right at this exact point ( Google Maps ). From that moment on just follow the signs, you have almost arrived!

29. Visit Some of Latvia’s Museums

There are some interesting museums in Latvia, also outside of Riga.

Some of them:  Limbazi Silver Museum, Preili Doll Kingdom, Aglona Bread Museum, Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre.

30. Visit Abandoned Soviet Objects in Latvia

For about 50 years Latvia was a part of the USSR. In 1991 Soviet Union collapsed, and Latvia regained its independence. But many of the previously secret and also strategic objects became accessible to public.

For example – former secret Soviet cities Skrunda and Irbene (and the Irbene radio telescope), and  underground bunker near Ligatne.

31. Go Cross-Country Skiing

There are no high mountains in Latvia, but we do have beautiful nature. And what a better way to explore this beauty during the winter if not on skis?

Where to go? You can rent skis in Riga and go to one of the groomed cross-country tracks in the city. Two popular choices are Victory Park and Mezaparks. However, there are more interesting options as well. For example, skiing by the sea, across frozen lakes and swamps. Easiest way to get to the sea is by taking bus number 24, going to Mangalsala, and to get out at either at the last stop or Pagrieziens uz Mangaļiem. You will need to walk for some 15 minutes.

32. Kayaking Across the Gulf of Riga

Looking for some real adventure? What about kayaking across the Gulf of Riga?

It’s definitely isn’t something for beginners. Total distance you’ll need to cover is about 110 kilometers (68 miles). Good thing, though, is that you don’t need to do it all at once, as there is one place, where to stop on the way – Ruhnu, known as Ronu sala in Latvia. It’s an Estonian island 65 kilometers (40 miles) off the Latvia’s coast, if you are kayaking from East to West.

So your plan could be like this: Salacgriva – Ruhnu, Ruhnu – Roja/Melnsils.

Another, less ambitious sea kayaking trip idea: Kolka – Kolka Lighthouse, built on an artificial island 6 kilometers off the coast.

The latter you can also do in an organized trip with Seakayak LV .

33. Go on a 4X4 Offroad Adventure

Territory of Latvia is about 50% bigger than the territory of the Netherlands. At the same time there are 10 times less people living in Latvia than there are in the Netherlands. Respectively – there is enough of wilderness in Latvia.

And one more option, how you can explore it is by 4×4 off roading vehicle.

Some More Cool Things to Do in Latvia and Places to See:

• Northern Wavebreaker of Ainazi . Historical wavebreaker.
• Ogres Zilie Kalni (Blue Hills) Nature Park in Ogre municipality. Beautiful place for walks in summer and for country skiing in winter.
• Pokaini Forest . Beautiful and mysterious place, an anciet holy site.
• Pape Nature Park .
• Skaiņais Hill Nature Park .

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

Do you have any questions about traveling to Latvia? Or maybe you need more recommendations about things to do in Latvia? Do not hesitate to contact us!

8 thoughts on “33 Top Things to Do in Latvia (Apart from Visiting Riga)”

I go to latvia about 2 times a year I stay with good friends in aulija rezekne. Plavinas ergli Tukums Jelegva and lots of other places. I like the country and all my friend I have met there

Oh, great! I’m glad that you like it here :)

Great list, thank you!

Latvia is on my bucket list my mother was born in Jelgeva they left in the early/ mid 40’s have always wanted tj see our farm and meet my family ❤

It’s not that hard to travel to Latvia nowadays :)

27. See the Stameriena Castle – it’s not castle in picture, it’s church :)

Thanks! I’ll look at it.

Sveiks Kaspars! “Es ari” am a fan of Latvija – very intresting country, will come again this Oktobris. ;-)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latvia Travel Guide: Travel Tips for Latvia

Travel guide to Latvian cities and useful travel tips for planning a trip to Latvia.

Choose the city you are interested in...

 ...or explore travel tips for the whole country!

Latvia , officially the Republic of Latvia, is a country in northeastern Europe, with a coastline along the Baltic Sea. The country has developed rapidly since it became independent and joined the European Union. Latvia is one of the countries of the Baltic States and attracts visitors with its impressive sights, rich heritage and lively capital Riga .

Attractions Transportation Where to stay Travel Tips

General information about Latvia

Area and boarders.

With an area of 64,589 km², Latvia is a Northern European country on the Baltic Sea coast. Latvia, one of the three Baltic countries, is adjacent to Estonia in the north, Lithuania in the south, Russia in the east, Belarus in the south east, and shares maritime borders with Sweden. It’s mostly flat landscape offers a mix of beaches, rivers, lakes, marshes and forests.

The country has a population of about 1.9 million, including 62% Latvians, 29% Russians, 3.9% Belarusians, 2.6% Ukrainians, 2.5% Polish.

Since 1 January 2014, the currency used in Latvia is Euro. All major credit cards are accepted and there are enough ATM machines to withdraw local currency.

Latvia is a member state of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement, so for entering the country you need to show valid passport and Schengen Visa on your travels to Latvia, which allows you to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. You will need to check your visa requirements at the nearest embassy of the destination country yourself.

For EU / EEA citizens, no visa is required before traveling to Latvia. You just need a valid passport or chip ID card as a travel document in Latvia. If the stay is longer than 90 days, you will need to request a residence certificate from the Latvia Migration Service.

The official language is Latvian. However, nearly half of the population can also speak Russian. Although English is not that widely spoken, the young population knows enough English to help you during the trip.

Here are some essential expressions to remember:

• Hello = Čau / Sveiki
• Good morning = Labrīt
• Good day = Labdien
• Thank you = Paldies

Weather in Latvia

Latvia’s strategic position on the Baltic Sea influences its climatic conditions and the presence of the sea makes it a place where the 4 seasons are clearly visible with its mild summers and cold winters.

During the snowy winter season from December to March in Latvia, the daytime temperature can fall down to -25 degrees or below. The sunshine hours are in the range of 5-6 hours during winter but in general seeing white cities and experiencing it through the typical activities, such as Nordic skiing or ice skating, is a unique experience.

In spring , the air temperature is between 5 and 15 degrees, and sometimes it can be colder at night. This is the time when the nature awakens and it is very suggesting to see the trees in bloom in numerous parks and gardens.

The weather in summer is offering ideal seasonal conditions for a trip to Latvia, which is abundant in green, with a pleasant atmosphere. The weather is usually around 18-23 degrees during the day. July is usually the hottest month, and in late August it can rain a lot. You can enjoy the sandy beaches of Jurmala or some outdoor activities.

In autumn , you will see the red and yellow of the forests making it a good time for hiking.

From June to early September, it is the best time to travel to Latvia where many festivals are celebrated in this period. If you don’t mind the cold weather, you can come to visit this beautiful country in winter. The minus temperatures allow you to visit the city in complete tranquility and the snow that flocks lightly make it more magical, especially during the Christmas.

Tourist Attractions in Latvia

There are many places to visit in Latvia. Latvia's historical culture dates back to ancient times. The most visited historical sites are mainly located in Riga. Riga is an important European city as well as the capital of Latvia. It is a magnificent city with its Art-Nouveau architecture, stone streets and historical buildings. Get familiar with Riga's top tourist attractions  and you'll be surprised at the range of places to visit in the city.

The historical places in Latvia are numerous including St. Peter's Church, Turaida Castle, Nativity Cathedral, Latvian War Museum, and Latvian Occupation Museum. The Rundale Palace which reflects the history of the country very well, is very popular in Latvia trips. You should definitely with Bauska Castle , famous for its baroque architecture.

Riga Guided Old Town Walking Tour is the most popular tour to explore the heart of medieval Riga in the Old Town and explore the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture.

Latvia also has unique beaches that have preserved their extremely natural beauty. As more than half of Latvia is covered with forests, you can easily find natural attraction in Latvia. Nature lovers should head to Gauja National Park . This place is one of the most beautiful national parks to get lots of forest air along the Gauja River. It is worth visiting for its magnificent view. There is also Burtnieks Lake with an average depth of 3 meters. It is a lake suitable for fishing.

If you will be coming to Latvia, we suggest you to discover more modest small cities of this country. There are dozens of hidden places to discover, we've rounded up the best tourist destinations in Latvia  that everyone should have on their bucket list.

Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour will take you to two beautiful cities of Latvia: ancient Cēsis or Wended, and beautiful Sigulda, known as the Switzerland of Latvia. You also enjoy the picturesque countryside, a nature park, and visit 3 medieval castles with your guide. 

Transportation in Latvia

Find out the best ways of traveling to Latvia, around the country and its capital city Riga.

How to get to Latvia

The easiest and fastest way to get to Latvia is undoubtedly by plane. Latvia has one airport that is used for international flights, namely Riga International Airport (RIX) . Riga Airport is well connected to all major European cities such as London, Helsinki, Oslo, Stockholm, Frankfurt, Berlin, Tallinn, Copenhagen and others. There are numerous airlines that fly there including AirBaltic, Finnair, Lufthansa, Ryanair, and Wizz Air. Riga Airport is the home airport of the Latvian AirBaltic.

You can easily find direct or indirect flight tickets for Latvia. However, flight ticket prices for Latvia might be a bit more expensive compared to other European countries.

Riga International Bus Terminal is a bus station in Riga, Latvia. This modern bus station is located in a comfortable position in the city center, you can reach the Old Town square in a 10-minute walk. The station is reached by many intercity and international bus companies. It connects Riga with the main cities in Latvia and most of the closest capitals nearby. Traveling by bus is quicker and cheaper than a train journey but they often fill up quickly, especially during the summer.

You cannot travel to Riga directly by train, as the only railway sections that arrive at Latvian borders are directed from Moscow and Minsk in Belarus. This is because the rail network is Russian and wider than the rest of Europe. However, there are plans to have a train connection between the Baltic States and Finland. If you travel by train, you can travel to Warsaw in Poland and then travel by bus to the Latvian capital.

Another connection option is by ship. There are numerous connections from Stockholm and Helsinki . From Stockholm ferries that connect Latvia to Sweden depart daily but the journey is quite long as it takes about 8 hours to make the crossing.

Riga is also easily accessible by car. The city is well connected with other major highways for easy access. The most direct route from neighboring countries to Latvia is along the Via Baltica. In Estonia, the Via Baltica runs through Pärnu. An interesting alternative route is to drive on an inbound or return trip through Tartu, Estonia.

Maximum attention is recommended, especially when traveling by car in winter. Winter tires are mandatory from 1 December to 1 March. Drivers must carry original vehicle registration documents when crossing the border to Latvia (including motorcycles). If you do not have these documents, you cannot get your vehicle back from Latvia. You cannot drink and drive as you will face a large fine and possible prison sentence. It is forbidden to use a mobile phone while driving without using a handsfree device.

How to get from Riga Airport to City Center

Riga International Airport (RIX) is located 13 km southwest of the city center and is well connected by public transport.

By Bus: Bus No. 22 provides transportation between the airport and the city center. When you land at Riga airport you can buy a bus ticket at the tourist office for 1.5 EUR and take the bus from the car park number 1 opposite the terminal building. If you don't have time to buy a ticket at the tourist office, you can get the ticket directly from the driver but you pay more for the same ticket. The journey takes 30 minutes. Buses run every 10 to 30 minutes. Bus No. 22 runs from 5:45 to 23:40.

Shuttle Bus : If you want, you can use express shuttle that costs 5 EUR.

By Taxi: There are also many taxis ready to take you from the airport to the city. Taxi ride takes only around 15 minutes. Taxi is quite an affordable option as the trip should cost around 12-15 EUR. However, some taxis operating from Riga Airport may charge highly inflated prices so beware.

By Private Transfer: With Riga Airport Private Transfers , you will enjoy a safe, reliable, and cost-effective transfer from Riga Airport to Riga city center hotels, and take the worry out of the start of your vacation or business trip to the Latvian capital.

How to get around Latvia

Transportation in Latvia is very well organized and connects the whole country. Transportation within the country is very comfortable with both private vehicles and public transportation.

Public transport in Latvia is affordable both within and between cities. Buses are a safe option and a convenient means of transport for both short and long-distance trips.

Train is also a great means of transportation to see some parts outside of Riga. Trains depart more often in the morning and afternoon. Some buses and trains even have free internet hotspots that you can use. These hotspots can also be found in the city and at stations.

How to get around Riga

Riga city transportation is provided by buses , trams , trolleybuses and minibuses . There are 52 bus lines, 20 trolleybus lines, 11 tram lines and many minibus lines. The latter do not have scheduled stops, but allow passengers to get off anywhere. You can easily travel to numerous places in the country or city. The company that manages bus, trolleybus and tram services is called Rīgas Satiksme.

Public transport in the city is available between 05:00-24:00. There are also night buses after midnight. You can get all the tickets from the ticket machine or on board with a slight surcharge. One-way ticket price is 1.50 EUR. If you buy tickets from certain kiosks or ticket shops, you can buy one-way tickets for 1.15 EUR. Group tickets are also very advantageous. In addition, a 24-hour ticket is 5 EUR, 3-day ticket is 8 EUR.

As for taxi transfers, there are 3 different types of taxi present in Riga and they are easily separated by color. The red taxis are the cheapest. The black ones are more expensive and more comfortable while the white taxis can cost much more compared to others. Traveling by taxi in Riga can be useful, especially at night, when most public transport is stopped, as only few trolleybus and tram lines are in operation.

In fact, if you are on a budget, you will not need public transportation in the city because almost all of the places to visit in Riga are within a walking distance to the city center. The Old Town is located in a circle of only 1 kilometer so most points in the city center can be discovered on foot .

Accommodation in Latvia

Latvia is not a country that challenges you about accommodation. In this country, the main tourist attractions are clustered around the capital Riga. Almost all of the accommodation options are located in the same region and it is a good base for traveling around Latvia. We recommend you to choose the old city or Miera, Riga's hipster district. The Art Nouveau area is a good alternative for more luxurious options. You can find out the place to stay in Riga with our Riga Area Guide  as the most important thing to consider when deciding where to stay is how you get from there to the main things you want to see.

Some of the best rated accommodations in Riga, Latvia:

Grand Palace Hotel

Boutique Hotel KRISTOFS

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel

Metropole Hotel by Semarah

Our pick of the Latvia capital's best places to stay can be found here: Top hotels to stay in Riga .

Latvian Cuisine

As in every country, we recommend you to try local tastes and taste interesting dishes in Latvia. Latvian cuisine is similar to both Finnish and Lithuanian cuisine. The Latvian dishes include potatoes, fish, cabbage, mushrooms, meat and black bread. In addition, since Riga is a port city, the range of seafood is quite wide.

The most delicious and common among traditional Latvian dishes are as follow:

Kotletes : Latvian Meatballs

Aukstā zupa : One of the classics of Latvian cuisine is cold beet soup. It is very pleasant to eat in summer.

Maizes zupa : This is actually a pudding dessert, but they call it soup. This dessert is made from rye bread, black Latvian bread.

Jāņi cheese : A traditional fresh cheese made from milk and curd.

Biezpiena sierins : Sweetish snack made from curd.

Biesu Zupa : A type of soup prepared using beets.

Pīrāgi : A traditional Latvian bacon bun which is filled with sautéed onion and bacon.

Gray Peas : Latvian people love soups made with peas and peas are among their traditional dishes.

Best places to eat in Latvia

There are many restaurants where only typical Latvian food is sold. In some of them, prices for the main meal can be low and start at 5 EUR or less. If you eat at the restaurants on a large square, you pay more for the atmosphere, live music, location and the more international dishes. For the main meal, with a drink and dessert, expect to spend around 20-30 EUR per person.

The list of restaurants in Riga that are recommended:

Lido : A self-service style restaurant chain with affordable prices. They offer a wide variety of Latvian dishes. Generally, prices are around 2 EUR for each type of meal.

Rozengrāls : The best medieval restaurant in the center of Old Riga on the Rozena Street, where you can have a pleasant meal in a Middle Ages atmosphere.

Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs : Local people call “Ala”, the most famous restaurant in Riga with traditional atmosphere. The place is like an underground cave. Good spot to experience not only Latvian cuisine and most popular beers but also great music and culture venue.

Black Magic Bar : The unique apothecary style bar and chocolate boutique. It's the best place in Riga to taste traditional Latvian liqueur.

Hard Rock Cafe : Modern and stylishly decorated cafe which is furnished as a living room with wall-mounted bookcases and comfortable sofas. This place is recommended if you don't want local dishes.

Vincents Restaurant : Famous chef Martins Ritins hosted many celebrities in his restaurant, from Elton John to Prince Charles. Definitely try 6 course tasting menu with matching wines.

13 krēsli : The restaurant, which means 13 chairs, is located on Dome Square and still maintains the breeze of Soviet times. You can also find delicious drinks and snacks for tea time in the restaurant, which serves as a pub and Steakhouse.

Skyline Bar : The bar on 26th floor of Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel where you will have a breathtaking views of the city. Entrance costs around 5 EUR. Drinks and food are not much more expensive compared to other places. The view makes it all worthwhile.

Nightlife in Latvia

Latvia nightlife is colorful, especially in Riga. Nightlife in Riga begins after 22:00 and is very lively on weekends. There are plenty of entertainment options for every budget from Irish pubs to long bars, from discos to tea houses. Most of these are concentrated in the Old Town, or Vecriga, where in the summer outdoor areas are also set up with tables and chairs.

If you wonder what to drink in Latvia, it is absolutely Black Balm. Black Balm is an award winning, traditional Latvian herbal liqueur made with many different natural ingredients. Apart from Black Balsam, Latvian beers are also worth trying. Especially for whatever you find produced by Labietis and Malduguns. Local beer is around 2-3 EUR in bars and cocktails in clubs are around 5-10 EUR. Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited and may result in detention and a financial penalty.

The nightlife in Riga is not just about night clubs. If you especially want to watch opera and ballet shows, you can enjoy it at the Latvian National Opera.

Shopping in Latvia

Latvia is a pleasant city for shopping and has its own local items. Jewelry made of amber stone known as Baltic gold or silver jewelry with old pagan motifs are very famous. You can also buy textile products or shoes with different designs at affordable prices from boutiques in the central region. Riga is also the place where the best chocolates Laima are produced.

You can go to Central Market to see the local market. You can find a wide range of products there and observe the daily shopping culture of Latvian people. The boutiques in the Old town area and stores such as Galleria Center, Galleria Riga, Stockmann and Origo can be nice choices for shopping in Riga. There is the Alfa park, the largest shopping center in Riga, with clothing, furniture, accessories, as well as restaurants, and a multiplex for night shows.

How many days to visit Latvia?

As with any city trip, the ideal time for this city will vary according to your activities. A 2 or 3-day duration is comfortable for visiting Riga. You can make a nice plan, especially when going there on Friday evening and returning on Sunday evening. However, you should spare more time to fully experience the country and its surrounding area.

Where to go after Latvia?

On the classical Baltic routes , the most popular destinations to go after Riga in Latvia are Vilnius in Lithuania  and Tallinn in Estonia . You witness the cultural transitions between them.

• You can reach Vilnius  from Riga in 5-6 hours by bus. The price is 15-20 EUR.
• You can also reach Tallinn  from Riga in about 4.5 hours by bus. The price is 16-20 EUR.

Latvia Travel Tips

Top tourist destinations to visit in latvia.

Latvia is a travel destination best known for its magnificent capital Riga and the adjacent sandy beach of Jurmala. The country also boasts its Rundale Palace, which is often called the Versailles of the Baltic Sea. This Baltic country has many nice places to visit that can be found in the list of top tourist destinations in Latvia .

Top Tourist Attractions in Riga, Latvia

Riga is the capital of Latvia  and also the largest city of the Baltic countries . Founded in 1201, Riga is characterized by unique elegant 19th and 20th century buildings in the city center, where Art Nouveau architecture is well preserved. Let’s discover the best of them and other top tourist attractions in Riga .

Where to Stay in Riga: Best Areas & Hotels

Riga is the capital of Latvia  and the largest city and the Baltic States. Traveling there gives you an opportunity to discover a preserved historical and architectural heritage, in addition to discovering delicious local cuisine. Wondering where to stay in Riga? Our guide to Riga best areas will be helpful!

Top 10 Best Hotels to Stay in Riga, Latvia

Riga , the capital of Latvia and important city of the Baltics, is decorated with buildings in pastel tones and magnificent Art Nouveau facades that amaze visitors. The choice of hotels in the city is pretty wide in various price ranges so to make your decision easier, we’ve listed top 10 best hotels to stay in Riga .

TRAVEL TIPS FOR

Latvia Riga

Top Trip Plans

• Bangkok Pattaya Itinerary 5 Days – Thailand Trip Plan
• Plan of 5 days trip on a budget to Bangkok & Pattaya
• Paris in 1 Day – The Best Paris Trip Itinerary
• Luxembourg in 1 Day – Our Luxembourg Trip Itinerary
• Paris in 2 Days – Recommended Paris Trip Itinerary

Top Travel Tips

• Istanbul Airport Luggage Storage Price & Lockers
• Istanbul Airport Currency Exchange Rate & Money Changers
• Thailand Quarantine Hotels: List of ASQ & ALQ Hotels
• How to Get from Cologne Airport to City Center
• Luggage Storage Warsaw Central Station: Lockers & Left Luggage Office
• Currency Exchange Rates at Bangkok Airport (BKK)
• Free Wi-Fi at Istanbul New Airport (IST)
• Warsaw Airport to Warsaw Central Train Station by Train
• Warsaw Airport Currency Exchange Rate & Money Changers
• Vienna Airport Currency Exchange Rate & Money Changers

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential for the operation of the site, while others help us to improve this site and the user experience (tracking cookies). You can decide for yourself whether you want to allow cookies or not. Please note that if you reject them, you may not be able to use all the functionalities of the site.

Latvia Travel Guide – Complete step by step guide

Welcom to Latvia Travel Guide. We all know that It takes some thought to plan a trip. Here are some recommendations for planning your fantastic trip to Latvia, including what to do, when to go, and how to get around.

As a native who has spent my entire life in Latvia, I have witnessed a variety of parts of Latvia.

I have road-tripped around Latgale -Aglona,Preili, and Rezekne, explored the rugged interior of mountainous Gaizins hill, the Highest point in Latvia) , and visited the widest waterfall Ventas Rumba.

Over the years I’ve learned that making the most out of an Latvia trip requires careful planning

Some places addvisable only be visited in summer, and some are difficult to get to. The weather can scupper plan,additionally, deciding how you are going to get around can determine the type of trip you’re going to have.

Here’s our guide to planning the ultimate Latvia trip also includes the best areas to visit, when to go, how to get around, travel tips, and what to expect in terms of cost

Welcome to Latvia Travel Guide

HOW TO GET THERE

WHERE TO GO

HOW TO GET AROUND

WHERE TO STAY

ITINERARIES

WHAT TO PACK

PRACTICALITIES

Latvia Travel Guide: From airport to center of the city

Congratulations, you have landed in Riga. Firstly to begin with your trip you need to get from the airport to the center of the city, if you have booked your hotel there. After you have left the airport there are 3 different options to get to the center of the city. However, each of them is diffrent in terms of time and budget.

 A regular bus service from the airport to Riga takes around 45 minutes.  Cost you  1.81 EUR

Car renta l companies are located either in the arrivals hall, or outside of the airpot. If you have dowload phone apps like – City bee or Bolt. Drive ussualy takes up around 30 min to the central part of the city. Cost around 15-20 EUR.

 Drive A taxi service runs 24 hours a day. Price ussualy depent from 20-50 EUR, it’s depdends from the people traffic and day time, as at the night time taxi gonna cost more.

Latvia Travel Guide: Unveiling Top Destinations

Fantastic here, we are making progress. to be safe and not complicate things, you’re latvia travel guide should start with spending at least 4  nights in latvia before you can tell your friends that you have visited latvia. spend a minimum of two nights in riga . one day to travel to jurmala –  kemeri . one full day in sigulda . in summary, those are 4 nights and minimal ideal amount of time to spend here n my opinion. additionally, i would suggest only booking a hotel in riga because, in my opinion, there is nothing to do at the nighttime both sigulda and jurmala, with the exception for the jurmala in summer time., old town - riga, firstly, a nice way to start your holidays would be at old town. my best advice for you would be just let yourself lost in our old town. in all of seriousness nothing bad will hapen with you. old town is one of our most sacred touristcal objets. it’s a perfect place for people to discover art noveau arhitecture, eat some yummy food as there are plenty of cafe and bars and free walking tours around the old town..

Šeit saliksi linkus vai bold iemetisi tekstu. Vajaga bildes, ieliks no tripadvisor, apstradasi ar telefonu.  T

Jurmala- Kemeri swamp

Further in our latvia travel guide, the next destination would be jurmala is roughly sixteen miles (or twenty-five kilometers) west of riga. 30 to 45 minutes. jurmala is one of the most expensive towns in latvia, and mainly russian speaking. the primary reasons for  tourists to visit jurmala is to view the see and then dine at restaurants. as you delve into jurmala, and walk thought it’s only main street, it’s one of our best beach towns and it’s a perfect place for a day-long trip. i strongly suggest booking a hotel just during the summer months.  don’t consider jurmala a vacation destination either. our baltic sea is chilly, and the few weeks of true summer we receive are ideal for getting a tan. the best ways to get to jurmala are by train or car..

A train ticket there would cost about two euros. Also, bookings in advance are not necessary.

Additionally, if you’re driving there…Be careful as it’s mandatory to pay an entrance fee. 2 euros further.

Gaujas parks - Sigulda

Further, our latvia travel guide takes us to sigulda – 53 kilometers (about 33 miles) is the estimated distance between riga and sigulda. about sixty minutes long.gaujas  parks- silgulda. it is the nation’s most mountainous terrain. however, sigulda is surrounded by natural forests and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. not only hiking routes, and picturesque views, but also the clean air makes it seem like a beautiful paradise. for those who love hiking on natural trails and don’t mind climbing hills, it’s the ideal location. to sum up and make it for you easier to plan you’re trip  fall and summer are the ideal season for you to visit sigulda..

Sigulda becomes a breathtaking picture in the fall as the trees change color. The greenery changes from green to fiery red orange, and gold, giving the entire area the appearance of a vibrant painting. Now is the ideal time to go for a walk and there are plenty of things to do so I am just gonna leave a list.

Here are the official websites of Sigulda and there is plenty of information for you to plan your trip.

Nature objects – https://tourism.sigulda.lv/redzet/daba/?lang=en

Active rest – https://tourism.sigulda.lv/darit/aktiva-atputa/?lang=en

It’s the ideal holiday to take with loved ones. It’s up to you whether or not you want to spend the night at one of the many hotels available, but I wouldn’t. The best ways to get to the Sigulda would be via automobile or train because.

A train ticket there will only cost about five euros. Furthermore, a ticket does not need to be reserved in advance.

Ventas Rumba, Kuldiga

Next on the list is ventas waterfall. t he main reason to come  here is to see the widest waterfall in europe. ventas rumba spans approximately 110-120 meters (360-394 feet) in width, and its height is only about 1.8 meters (5.9 feet)..

Though there are other activities, the waterfall serves as the primary landmark in our Latvia Travel Guide. Explore the Old Town of Kuldīga’s quaint streets. Discover the charming homes, cobblestone streets, and antique buildings. Make sure not to overlook the unique Ventas Rumba stone bridge. The city core is a small area where you can freely walk around and fully immerse.

To sum things up, it’s a nice place to there with family or friends to Kuldiga, but it’s by far the furthest Location in this guide. The distance between Riga and Kuldīga is approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) when traveling by road. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car. However, if you are planning your trip it’s worth it.

Uzstaisi 2 kartinas ar Kuldiigu

Latvia Travel Guide: Best Time to come here

Summer bliss (june to august): .

Initially, Latvia truly comes alive during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is at its warmest, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. Explore the stunning beaches of Jurmala, take a leisurely stroll through Riga’s Old Town, or enjoy a boat ride on one of Latvia’s many lakes.

Midsummer Magic (Late June):

 Next on the list id late June is particularly special in Latvia because of the Midsummer celebration, known as “Jāņi.” Experience the country’s most significant traditional festival, where locals gather to celebrate the longest day of the year with bonfires, folk songs, and traditional foods. It’s a magical time to witness Latvia’s cultural richness.

Autumn Charm (September to November):

 As summer fades, autumn brings a different kind of beauty to Latvia. However, the changing colors of the leaves transform the landscapes into a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Take a scenic drive to Sigulda or Gauja National Park to witness the fall foliage at its best.

Winter Wonderland (December to February):

 Embrace the winter wonderland that Latvia becomes from December to February. If you’re a fan of winter sports, head to the Latvian countryside for cross-country skiing or visit the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track for an adrenaline rush. Riga’s Christmas markets are also a must-visit, offering a festive atmosphere with mulled wine, local crafts, and holiday cheer. Nevertheless, most of the time winter period in Latvia is quite depressing and if you are a first-time traveller, i wouldn’t recommend that you come here in winter time.

S pring Awakening (March to May):

• As Latvia emerges from winter, spring brings a sense of renewal. Witness the blooming cherry blossoms in Riga’s parks and gardens. Spring is an excellent time for exploring Latvia’s countryside and national parks, where nature comes to life after the winter slumber, however, be prepared for a colder climate and have with yourself a nice autumn jacket.

Whether you prefer the warmth of summer, the vibrant colors of autumn, the magical winter landscapes, or the blossoming beauty of spring, Latvia has something to offer throughout the year. Consider your interests and the type of experience you seek to find the perfect time for your Latvian adventure. Whatever the season, Latvia welcomes you with open arms and a promise of unforgettable moments.

Latvia Travel Guide: Transportation Tips

In this Latvia Travel guide section, you will learn how to Get About Riga and the Best Transportation Options. To make things easier for your i sum up the most popular transportation types around Riga. However to fully cover public transportation variations, I would need to make a separate blog post, nevertheless, there is a simple comparison of how you should move around Latvia.

The ticket cost’s 1.50 EUR and it’s usable for 90 min for all the public transport (Blue and white) markings.

If you want to read additional about the public transportation system in Riga – here is the link to reading about public transportation in Riga.

Firstly the city and its suburbs of Riga are served by a vast network of trolleybuses and public buses. They are a cheap and effective way to go around Riga and see all of its neighborhoods.

Secondly, in Riga, trams are another well-liked transportation option. They run several routes, offering comfortable and pleasant travels across the city. 

Services for Ride-Sharing:

Thirdly, in Riga, we have a ride-sharing service such as Bolt which is widely accessible. These services offer a comfortable and easy way to go around the city. You can pay electronically through  mobile apps.

Latvia Travel Guide: Transportation Outside Riga

If you are planning your trip outside of Riga, there aren’t that many options to choose from. However, to sum things up for you, there are 3 types of transport you should be focusing on.  

Intercity Buses

Firstly Latvia has a well-developed intercity bus network connecting Riga to various towns and cities. These buses are a convenient and affordable way to explore destinations outside the capital. Find out more about opening a site for public buses around Latvia

Secondly, Latvian Railways operates trains connecting Riga to other major cities, such as Daugavpils, Jelgava, and Ventspils. Train travel provides a comfortable option for longer distances. Find out more at Opening a site for a train

Renting a car

Thirdly, renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Latvia outside Riga. It offers flexibility, allowing you to visit remote areas, national parks, and charming countryside villages at your own pace.

Latvia Travel Guide: Choosing Accommodations

Latvia is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination for tourists. however, the perceived expense can vary based on individual preferences, travel style, and the specific locations visited. here i have a summary with approximate costs for each style of hotel. stay updated as there gonna be an in-depth guide about choosing the perfect locations for you.

• Firstly, Latvia’s cities, especially Riga, offer a wide selection of hotels ranging from budget to luxury. In Riga’s Old Town and city center, you’ll find upscale hotels with modern amenities and historic charm.
• Budget Hotels: Starting from €40 to €80 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: €80 to €150 per night.
• Luxury Hotels: €150 and above per night.

Apartment Rentals in Latvia:

Secondly, renting an apartment or holiday home is a popular choice, especially for those who prefer more independence and space. Websites like Airbnb and local rental agencies offer a variety of options, from city apartments to rural cottages.

• Airbnb and similar platforms offer a wide range of options.
• Budget Apartments: €40 to €80 per night.
• Luxury Apartments: €80 and above per night.

Budget Motels:

• Thirdly,along major highways and near towns, you may find budget motels catering to travelers on road trips. These establishments often offer simple, no-frills accommodations. In summary, if you are on a budget maybe it’s a good idea. As much as I remember that there was an accident a few years ago, one of the cheapest hostels in Riga burned down. Therefore the problem was with electricity. On the other hand, bo oking motels or hostels is not that popular as the prices are almost the same for less of the comfort.
• Motel Rooms: €30 to €70 per night.
• Prices may vary based on location and amenities.

Latvia Travel Guide: How expensive is Latvia

Let’s continue our journey about Latvia. Latvia is generally considered to be more affordable compared to many Western European countries. However, the cost of living can vary depending on factors such as your lifestyle, location, and spending habits . Here’s a general breakdown of potential expenses for a traveler in Latvia:

• Budget Traveler: €5 – €15 per meal at local cafes, street food stalls, or budget-friendly restaurants.
• Mid-Range Traveler: €15 – €30 per meal at mid-range restaurants offering a mix of local and international cuisine.
• Luxury Traveler: €30 and above per meal at upscale or fine dining establishments.

Transportation:

• Public Transportation: €1.20 – €2 for a single public transport ticket in cities like Riga.
• Taxis: €0.60 – €0.80 per kilometer; ride-sharing services like Bolt are common.
• Car Rental: €30 – €70 per day, depending on the type of car and rental duration.

Attractions and Activities:

• Museums and Attractions: €5 – €15 for entrance fees to museums and cultural attractions.
• Outdoor Activities: Prices vary; hiking and exploring nature parks may be free or have a nominal fee.

Miscellaneous Expenses:

• SIM Card: €5 – €15 for a prepaid SIM card with data.
• Groceries: €30 – €50 per week for basic groceries if you choose to cook some meals.
• Budget Traveler: €50 – €80 per day.
• Mid-Range Traveler: €80 – €150 per day.
• Luxury Traveler: €150 and above per day.

Latvia Travel Guide: Things to know

• Latvia uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Make sure to have some cash on hand for small purchases, as not all places may accept cards.

The official language is Latvian, but English and russian is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and larger cities. It’s helpful to learn a few basic Latvian phrases as a sign of respect.

• Latvia is generally considered safe for tourists. Exercise common sense, keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious in crowded areas.

Electricity:

• Latvia uses the European standard Type C and Type F electrical outlets. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
• Wifi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces. Consider getting a local SIM card for data if you need constant connectivity.

I hope it has ignited the spark of curiosity and answered most frequent questions. As i tried to make this Latvia travel guie simple and engaging.

Armed with my insights you now have the tools to make your Latvian journey better. Whether you’re captivated by the medieval charm of Riga’s Old Town, enticed by the tranquility of Latvia’s pristine nature, or eager to delve into the country’s fascinating history, your planning begins here.

Remember to bookmark this guide, as i’m committed to keeping you updated with the latest information, video guides, and insider tips. Let this guide be your constant companion as you navigate the cobbled streets, scenic countryside, and cultural hotspots of Latvia.

As you embark on your Latvian escapade, may you encounter not just destinations but moments that linger in your heart. From the lively streets of Riga to the serene shores of the Baltic Sea, Latvia invites you to discover its hidden gems and create memories that transcend time.

Sightseeing Riga Tour by Car

Starting from 40 EUR

Private Soviet Style Tour by Car in Riga

Ligatne - sigulda tour by car.

Starting from 95 EUR

Jurmala - Kemeri Tour by Car

Starting from 60 EUR

Guided Tours in Latvia​

Learn through the eyes of a local!

[email protected]

+371 29 611 091

BOOK YOUR TOUR

Fill out the form below, and I will get in touch with you shortly.

• Latvia Travel Guide
• Latvia Things To Do
• Latvia Hotels
• Latvia Restaurants
• Latvia Top Places
• Latvia News
• Latvia Gallery
• Latvia Sights

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

• Things To Do
• Restaurants

Fodor's Essential Europe Whether you want to eat your way across France, see the Renaissance art of Italy, or take...

Latvia, and particularly Rīga, is fiercely distinct from the other two Baltic States (Estonia and Lithuania). German influence was stronger here than elsewhere, because the 14th-century Knights of the Sword used this as their base. When the Soviets forcibly incorporated Latvia into the Soviet Union in 1944, the effects of Russification were more devastating. Today 45% of Latvia is Russian-speaking; in Rīga, Russians, Ukrainians, and Belorussians are the majority. This has created a palpable tension: Latvians are angered because their culture has been suppressed for 50 years, whereas Russians are frustrated with the fact that most of them have yet to be granted citizenship here.

• Sights 10 Listings
• Restaurants 4 Listings
• Hotels 3 Listings

Find a Hotel

10 Delicious Things You Must Eat and Drink in Riga This is a world of delectable dairy products, tart berries, homemade rye bread, flavorful smoked meat and sausages, tangy pickles, and fresh Baltic seafood.

How Riga Learned to Love Its Abandoned Industrial Spaces From the crumbling facades of the old town, to the distinctive Soviet-era Academy of Sciences, Riga is a city with a rich architectural heritage.

This Latvian Folk Bar Brews Its Own Bizarre Moonshine Riga’s coolest bar is not what you’d expect.

• Destinations
• Advertising

• Fodor’s Travel Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use. Copyright © 2024 by MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Fodor’s is a registered trademark of MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved.

Thank you for your interest!

Rīga Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice

Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, with a great selection of accommodation options to suit any budget and a wide variety of world cuisine. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Jugendstil Art Nouveau architecture – “music in stone” – line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife.

Bastion Hill and the Guild Hall

Cathedral square, drinking and nightlife, the freedom monument, jews in latvia, lofty views, museum of the sun, national art museum, occupation museum, rīga art nouveau museum, rīga motor museum, swedish gate and the powder tower, town hall square.

Old Rīga (Vecrīga), centred around Cathedral Square (Doma laukums) and bisected from east to west by Kaļķu iela, forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town (Milda). Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Jugendstil motifs.

Travel ideas for Latvia, created by local experts

Sustainable Baltic Capitals

Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.

Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

Winter Adventure in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, the recognized abode of Santa Claus, serves as the ultimate hub for delving into Arctic landscapes and immersing in Lappish (Sami) heritage. Engage in a diverse array of pursuits, from thrilling snowshoe escapades to chasing the enchanting Northern Lights, or embracing the roles of a husk

Baltic Highlights

Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

Rīga has extensive budget accommodation, mostly concentrated in the southern half of Old Rīga, with a few options in nearby New Town and by the Central Market. Reserve in advance in summer.

Bastion Hill (Bastejkalns) – the park that slopes down to the city canal at the end of Torna iela – is a reminder of the city’s more recent history: on January 20, 1991, four people were killed by Soviet fire during an attempted crackdown on Latvia’s independence drive. Stones bearing the victims’ names mark where they fell near the Bastejas bulvāris entrance to the park.

Cathedral Square is dominated by the towering red-brick Rīga Cathedral , established in 1211 and featuring one of the biggest organs in Europe. On the other side of the cathedral, is the worthwhile Museum of Rīga’s History and Navigation , featuring Bronze Age and medieval artefacts, such as a mummified criminal’s hand, as well as temporary art exhibitions.

From Cathedral Square, Pils iela runs down to Castle Square (Pils laukums) and Rīga Castle (Rīgas pils), built in 1515 and now home to the Latvian president. Follow Mazā Pils iela from Pils laukums to see the Three Brothers (Trīs brāli), three charming medieval houses, one of which, built in the fifteenth century, is thought to be the oldest in Latvia.

Rīga Bourse Art Museum

Opposite the cathedral, the former building of the Latvia Stock Exchange at Doma laukums 6 contains the Rīga Bourse Art Museum (Mākslas muzejs Rīgas birža), the nation’s collection of old masters and archaeological treasures. A small Monet landscape and a Rodin sculpture are the main big-name draws, although the Flemish still-lives and classical antiquities are enough to keep the interest from flagging.

The Old Town offers innumerable opportunities for bar hopping, with a wide range of watering holes (many serve decent food too) filling up with fun-seeking locals seven nights a week. Most dance venues offer a commercial diet of techno, Euro-hits and golden oldies, although you might get more varieties in smaller clubs, especially on week-nights. Drinks are affordable even in the most stylish places, and there's usually some sort of food menu.

Classical music in Rīga is of an exceptionally high standard. The Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and Latvian National Opera are the biggest shows in town. The theatre scene is rich and varied, although you'll need a working knowledge of Latvian or Russian to appreciate it fully.

Most restaurants in Riga serve international cuisine, while self-service cafes offer a hearty and inexpensive meal. Restaurant prices are generally higher than in Vilnius or Tallinn, but still noticeably lower than in Western European capitals. On average, a three-course dinner with drinks will cost around 20-30 euros - more if you plan to order wine.

The modernist Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis), known affectionately as “Milda”, dominates the view along Brīvības bulvāris as it enters the New Town , holding aloft three stars symbolizing the three regions of Latvia. Incredibly, the monument survived the Soviet era, and nowadays two soldiers stand guard here in symbolic protection of Latvia’s independence.

Jews living in Rīga and other parts of Latvia suffered the same fate as Jews in other parts of Eastern Europe when Latvia was overrun by Nazis. The Rīga Ghetto Museum built on the site of the Jewish ghetto behind the Central Market consists of two outdoor exhibits: a seemingly endless wall of victims’ names, and photographs and text illustrating the life of the Jewish community in different parts of Latvia before World War II. On Peitavas iela 6/8, you’ll find the last surviving synagogue in Rīga; when all the synagogues in the city were burned down by the Nazis in 1941, this synagogue and its treasures – the sacred scrolls – escaped destruction due to its close proximity to other buildings. There’s a memorial on Gogoļa iela where the Great Choral Synagogue was burnt down in July 1941 with its 300-strong congregation trapped inside. At Skolas 6, you will find a small but gritty and informative Jews In Latvia Museum on the history of Jewish life in Latvia from the eighteenth century onwards, including persecution by both Nazis and Soviets and the survival and “rebirth” of Judaism in independent Latvia.

If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church (Pēter baznīca), a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire and climb the tower (3Ls) for excellent panoramic views of the city. Battling the church for the finest views of Rīga is “Stalin’s Birthday Cake” – the Academy of Sciences , a 1950s Empire State Building lookalike at Akadēmijas laukums 1. The 65m skyscraper, adorned with hammers and sickles near the top, has a 360-degree viewing platform on the 17th floor.

One of Rīga’s most intriguing sights is the quaint and curious Museum of the Sun at Valnu iela 30 (Saules muzejs), a private collection of artworks, ornaments and cult objects connected with the fiery life-giving orb in the title. Visually attractive throughout, the display also has interesting things to say about the position of the sun in religion and folk belief, and the development of astronomy.

Esplanade Park runs north from Brīvības bulvāris. At the far end of the park, the worthwhile Latvian National Art Museum (Valsts mākslas muzejs), housed in a grandiose Neoclassical building, displays an impressive array of nineteenth- and twentieth-century Latvian paintings, sculptures and drawings by Rosentāls, Padegs, Valters and others, as well as changing modern art exhibitions. In a separate building, the Arsenāls Exhibition Hall stages cutting-edge temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists.

Temporarily housed in the former building of the American Embassy at Raina bulvāris 7, the Occupation Museum (Latvijas okupācijas muzejs) documents the atrocities committed against Latvia’s population by both Nazi and Soviet occupations. Emotion-inducing exhibits include letters to loved ones thrown from trains by Latvians forcibly removed to Siberia, and the simple household items (children’s toys, Christian crosses) they fashioned by hand to make life bearable once they got there.

The Rīga Art Nouveau Museum , housed in the former apartment of renowned artist and engineer Konstantīns Pēkšēns, is a must for anyone with an interest in Art Nouveau. You can view original period furniture and some of Pēkšēns’ work and the visit culminates in the viewing of a short video which will enable you to tell the difference between “romantic” and “vertical” Art Nouveau facades on the city’s streets.

It’s worth travelling 8km out of town to seek out one of Rīga’s odder attractions – the Motor Museum (Rīgas motormuzejs). Home to an impressive collection of vehicles through the ages, its pride and joy are the vehicles belonging to Soviet heads of state: see Stalin lounging in the back seat of his bulletproof ZIS.

On Torņa iela, you’ll find the seventeenth-century Swedish Gate (Zviedru vārti), the sole surviving city gate. At the end of Torņa iela is the Powder Tower (Pulvertornis), a vast, fourteenth-century bastion, home to the excellent War Museum (Kara muzejs) – nine floors of the country’s turbulent history, from medieval weaponry to world wars I and II and Latvia’s struggle for independence.

From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads ( Melngalvju nams ), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Once serving as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white saint St Maurice as their patron (hence, the name "Blackheads"). Largely destroyed in 1941, the House was lovingly reconstructed for the 800th anniversary of Rīga’s foundation in 2001.

The ugly oblong structure next door belongs to the Occupation Museum ( Latvijas okupācijas muzejs ), currently closed for long-term renovation – visit the museum’s temporary display on Raina bulvaris.

The Rough Guides to Latvia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 04.03.2024

Ready to travel and discover Latvia?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Singapore Malaysia itinerary 5 days — What to do & suggested…

Pulau Ubin travel guide. The ultimate guide to the green island…

Pulau Ubin blog — The guide to Pulau Ubin & suggested…

18+ top things to do in Dubai

The complete Seoul subway guide: How to use, lines, fares for…

How much does it cost to travel to Korea? Tips on…

The ultimate guide to NETS FlashPay Card: What is it, how…

How much will it cost to go to Singapore? Tips on…

13 best, most famous & popular bubble tea in Taiwan

Where to eat in Penang? 17 best places to eat &…

Best bubble tea in Taiwan — Top 11 most famous &…

29+ must-try foods in Thailand

11+ best homestays in Kuala Lumpur near famous tourist attractions

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives reviews. The detailed review of my vacation…

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa reviews. The resort is highly…

+7 luxury resorts you must stay in Danang, Vietnam

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

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?

Singapore Malaysia itinerary 5 days — What to do & suggested 5 days 4 nights Singapore Malaysia itinerary

Pulau ubin travel guide. the ultimate guide to the green island of singapore, pulau ubin blog — the guide to pulau ubin & suggested perfect pulau ubin one day trip.

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 .

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Koh Samui blog. The ultimate guide to Koh Samui island, Thailand

13 best places to visit in Okinawa for a Memorable Vacation

Explore Hallasan National Park. The fullest guide to the famous mount Hallasan on Jeju Island

Osaka itinerary 3 days — Suggested Osaka itinerary 3 days & what to do in Osaka for 3 days?

Manchester travel blog. The latest Manchester guide for first-timers

Editor picks.

Singapore Malaysia itinerary 5 days — What to do & suggested...

Pulau Ubin travel guide. The ultimate guide to the green island...

Pulau Ubin blog — The guide to Pulau Ubin & suggested...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1517
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 223
• Thailand 216
• Coasts + Islands 198
• South Korea 178
• Vietnam 172
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

A first-time guide to Rīga, Latvia

Aug 6, 2024 • 9 min read

The amazing architecture of Latvia's capital, like the House of the Blackheads, spans the centuries from medieval to modern. ©gadag/Shutterstock

Latvia ’s capital can cast a spell on even the most experienced travelers. It’s a city where medieval mysteries live alongside contemporary art performances, hundreds of Art Nouveau buildings line historic streets, and the city’s flourishing culinary scene offers traditional Latvian dishes and modern Nordic cuisine. Yet, Rīga is largely undiscovered by mass tourism. It’s perfect for appreciating a tranquil and cultural city without a crowd.

Whether you prefer warm summer nights or fresh winter mornings, walking around art galleries or spending time in nature, going to local alternative bars or extravagant concert halls, Rīga offers it all.

Explore related stories

Aug 6, 2024 • 10 min read

From historic landmarks to cafes along cobblestone streets, via countercultural Užupis, this is all you need to know for a trip to the Lithuania's capital.

Aug 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Jul 25, 2024 • 8 min read

Jul 18, 2024 • 11 min read

Jun 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 10 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 6 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

No products in the basket.

A travel guide for Riga, Latvia

Updated On 19th June, 2024

Latvia is a mystery to many, and not the first place on many Europe bucket lists . However, Riga is one of Europe’s hidden gems , and in this Riga travel guide I’m going to share my favourite things to do in Latvia, places to visit in Riga, and top tips for visiting Riga! While you may have never considered visiting Riga before, keep reading and hopefully I can change your mind.

Latvia took me by surprise and it’s such an incredible destination to explore. If you’re the type of traveller who loves old towns, cobbled streets, buildings and history, or maybe you are just looking for a brand new place to explore… Riga delivers. There are so many cool things to do in Riga; you cannot miss this city if you’re travelling in Eastern Europe. In fact, I’d go as far as saying that it’s one of the best capital cities to visit in Europe. 

What makes Riga so special you may ask? Riga is set in the Baltic Sea and is known for its white sandy beaches, wooden colourful houses, old historic buildings, flowers and everything art. One thing I definitely noticed during my visit, was the locals were super friendly and spend a lot of time together on the beaches, eating delicious food and they certainly love to dance! 

Whether it’s the culture and museums or a relaxing break from your everyday life, Riga has everything you could possibly want from a weekend away in Europe . From wandering around Riga’s Old Town to sightseeing on the River Daugava, or from hiking in Gauja National Park to getting the adrenaline pumping on a mountain bike tour… there are plenty of things to do in Riga that will keep you busy during your stay! 

In terms of the weather in Riga, the hottest months are June-August, where the temperature is usually in the early 20s (degrees Celsius). Autumn and Spring are fairly mild, but winter (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping below zero. 

Keep reading to see more about this city in my Riga travel guide and all the fun things to do in Riga that you should add to your Latvia bucket list! 

Other blog posts you might find useful…

• A complete guide to Tallinn, Estonia
• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• The best things to do in Moscow
• Christmas markets in Europe road trip itinerary
• The best things to do in Europe
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide

Where is Riga? How to get to Riga?

If you’re wondering ‘where is Riga?’ or ‘how to get to Riga’, then you’re in the right place. Latvia, one of the Baltic States, borders Russia, Estonia, Lithuania and Belarus. In the heart of Latvia, there’s Riga! Riga is the capital of Latvia, and also one of the country’s largest cities.

Flights to Riga are usually super cheap and affordable. Most flights to Riga from the UK are with Ryanair or Air Baltic, with budget-friendly prices normally being between £40 – £100, so it’s a perfect candidate for a short trip or weekend away for anyone  travelling on a budget !

Depending on where you are travelling from, a flight from the UK to Riga (RIX) is about 2hr 30 minutes. You can also fly to Riga from many international airports across Europe and around the world! 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Riga on Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

Getting around Riga… 

From Riga’s international airport you can hop on one of the many means of transport they have to offer. You can take the bus, hail a taxi (which you can pre-book in advance) or get a ticket for one of the trolleybuses. Find out more and book your Riga airport transfer here. 

Bear in mind that when travelling by taxi in Riga, a small tip of around 10% is usually expected through a kind gesture and appreciation.

Transport fare prices are very reasonably priced. You can pay as little as 5 EUR for a 24 hour day pass which can be used on all buses, trams and trolleybuses. Bargain!

If you prefer to find your way around a city yourself, there are bicycle hires in Riga. Pick up a local map and the locals will be more than happy to help. However, please be aware of the fast local drivers.

See more ways to keep active while you’re travelling here. 

Where to stay in Riga?

Riga is full of different types of accommodation, offering whatever you’re looking for. If you’re wondering where to stay in Riga, there’s everything from luxury spa hotels to budget-friendly hostels and everything in between! 

Check  Airbnb  for apartments and rooms in Riga. 

Check out  booking.com  to find lots of hotels and hostels in Riga. 

In terms of where to stay in Riga, in this Riga travel guide I’m also going to share my insight into the best areas to stay in in Riga… 

Old Town Riga

Stay in the Old Town in Riga if you want to be in the centre of the city, in amongst all the culture. I spent my first night here and loved it! 

The hotel we stayed at was Monika Centrum Hotel , facing right opposite a local park and within walking distance to the town centre. Some more of the best hotels in Riga Old Town are Grand Poet by Semarah , Pullman Riga , and there are also hostels in Riga Old Town like Tree House Hostel.

If you want to spend time by a beachside location then Jurmala is the perfect place to stay in Riga for you!

In Jurmala I stayed at Hotel Jumala Spa . This hotel is incredible , located near the beachfront whilst surrounded by forest trees, beautiful cafés, restaurants and shops.

Whilst we were here we spent time in the hotel spa with an impressive amount of 6 different saunas ranging at different temperatures. It’s in the perfect location for spending time on the beach and taking evening walks alongside the sand to watch the sunset with the locals.

Example prices in Riga:

(As of Sept 2021)

Is Riga expensive? How much to budget for Riga?…

Riga isn’t expensive and I found it very similar to the UK for prices. You can pay using your bank card or Euros. In this Riga travel guide I’ve included some examples of what I spent in Riga to give you an idea…

• For a standard average hotel price, you can pay €40 – €80 a night.
• A bottle of water €1.5 (depending on the size and brand)
• You can pick up a pint of beer for €3
• A stop at the local cafés, coffee will be €2.50 – €3.50
• A main meal in Riga can cost between €9 and €18, also depending on where you eat and which restaurant you stop at.

My favourite places to eat in Riga:

Without a doubt, Riga is full of delicious food to enjoy!

In the Old Town and the other main areas in Riga, the streets are filled with unique restaurants and cafes. One of the best things to do in Riga is to spend some time walking down the little cobbled streets to come across the lesser known restaurants! This is where I came across many small hidden cafes.

Two of my favourite cafes in Riga were Miit Coffee and Rocket Bean Roastery.

If you’re currently sitting there thinking, but what food does Riga have? Will I be able to eat anything? Latvian food has so many options including traditional soups, bread & pastries, cold meats, cheese and olives, as well as international dishes such as pasta, pizza, burgers and kebabs. You won’t go hungry. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry.. they have so many options for you, such as risottos, veggie soups, potato dishes and dairy-free milk too.

One of my favourite restaurants in Latvia was an outdoor restaurant called Colonel Brew Kitchen. It’s right in the centre of the town square with local music.

One more thing for this part of the Riga travel guide… you can not leave Latvia without trying out the Black Balsam, a traditional alcohol that is found all over Riga, in restaurants, bars and shops. Warning! Be careful with how many you have, it’s on the stronger side, with a high alcohol content of 45%. 

The best things to do in Riga: A Riga travel guide

1. jump on the river boat..

One of the best things to do in Riga is to see the city from the water! You can journey out along the canal and make your way to the River Daugava for more sightseeing opportunities. You can do this trip with Riga by Canal.  For an adult fare this will cost €13.

2. Hike in Gauja National Park.

This was one place I had on my list but didn’t get around to doing but believe it’s definitely worth visiting. It’s got to be one of the best places to visit in Riga and hiking here should be on your Riga bucket list! The Gauja National Park is known as the Switzerland of Latvia.

You will be able to witness the breathtaking scenic views, one of the biggest caves (Gutman Cave), ancient historical sites/manor and free to adventure along the trails and hike to get to the best views.

Make sure you take your camera! And comfortable walking shoes or boots. You don’t want to miss out on one of the best things to do in Riga because you weren’t prepared! 

Check out my hiking top tips here. 

3. Find a Tour Guide to uncover the history.

The best way to find out all the local history is from the locals themselves.

If you want to know all the history of this country then I believe a tour guide is your best option. Walking tours in a town are great if you’re short on time, start in different locations of the city depending on what you want to experience. You can choose anything from food & wine tours, old town walking tours, heritage history and if you don’t fancy walking, you can even hop-on the red buses.

When I first visited Riga, I went on a history walking tour with some locals to get to know all about the city, to soak up all their local knowledge and recommendations, and to recognise the pride they have for the city they live in. This was definitely one of my best things to do in Riga! 

You can book a walking tour where they will take you around the town, seeing all the buildings, churches, the many museums and places you may not have ventured to on your own.

A few of the best walking tours in Riga to look out for: House Of Blackheads built in 1334, Freedom Monument and Rigas Christ Cathedral. 

4. Do an ATV Safari or Quad bike tour.

If you’re feeling really adventurous and you’re looking for things to do in Riga that will get the adrenaline pumping, book onto a ATV Safari or Quad Biking day trip. This will take you out of the city and onto the hills, which means it’s time to have fun!

Your tour will be full of off road driving, dirt tracks and the beauty of the outdoors.

The tours are 2 hours to half-day duration, pricing from £80 per adult. There are several companies that offer these tours, so shop around and see what suits you money and time wise! 

5. Go skiing or snowboarding in Riga.

Although Latvia is not full of mountains, one of the best things to do in Riga is to enjoy the winter sports available there such as skiing and snowboarding. Latvia surprisingly has a range of slopes and hills for both skiing and snowboarding in most districts.

So, if you’re a big fan of this sport or fancy daring yourself to try something new, then hit the slopes for some downhill adrenaline.

6. Explore the Old Town in Riga.

One of the top things to do in Riga is to visit the Old Town. You will venture down the cobbled paths where the streets are filled with markets to entice you in (which they certainly do), many restaurants and cafes for your choice and often live music will be playing along the streets with live performances.

Make sure you admire the architecture in the Old Town as you wander around Riga too. From visiting the Thee Brothers or the House of Blackheads, to seeing many of the wonderful churches, there are plenty of places to visit in Riga that will catch your eye! 

7. Hit the beach in Riga.

The beaches in Riga are all without a doubt stunning! White sand, clear water and overlooked with big trees in the distance.

You will find the beaches have small bars with shelter, chairs and places to eat. Some even have activities taking place for children to join in with. One of the best things to do in Riga is to have a beach day!

The beaches in Riga have a friendly and fun atmosphere for all family and friends. A few favourites would be Jurmalas Beach, Ritabulli beach and Vecāķu pludmale.

8. Enjoy the artwork in Riga.

One of the top things to do in Riga is to enjoy the art and creative energy in this European capital city . From the Art Nouveau District to art galleries and museums, Riga is one of the most creative cities I have visited. If you’re looking for free things to do in Riga, be sure to visit LOW, a space dedicated to up and coming artists in Latvia. 

9. Explore the markets in Riga.

Markets around Riga are open all year round and are one of the main attractions for people when visiting. One of the best things to do in Riga is to try and find souvenirs here to take home. You can find anything from food & drink, artwork and music. Some include Riga Central Market, Riga’s Christmas Market and Kalnciema Street Market.

See my Christmas market road trip in Europe here.  Is there anything else you’d add to this Riga travel guide?

Where are your favourite things to do in Riga? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

Shop the google map legends

Search by adventure type, active travel, backpacking, budget travel, love and relationships, once in a lifetime, packing tips, solo travel, weekend getaways, where's mollie newsletter, travel shop, search by destination, other posts that you may like....

The ultimate Rome travel guide: the best things to do

The best day trips from Copenhagen

A 2-week Norway road trip itinerary

The launch of the GoPro Hero 4 Session in Tyrol, Austria with GoPro

The best Christmas markets in the UK

My First EVER Skiing Trip with Powder White in Val D’Isére, France

22 top tips for long distance relationships

13 reasons why you’ll fall in love with London

Top tips for your road trip in Scotland

• Piedzīvo Aktīvā atpūta Arhitektūra Kultūra Pilsētas Daba Labjūte Pilis un muižas Ģimenēm ar bērniem
• Naktsmītnes
• Maršruta plānotājs

Meklēt Latvijā

Izvēlies valodu, atklāj latviju.

Nakšņošana pilīs un muižās

Dabas takas aktīvām brīvdienām

Idejas brīvdienām

Ekstrēmu sajūtu piekritējiem

Garās distances pārgājienu maršruti

Vietas kokteiļa baudīšanai

Latvijas garšas

Unikāli muzeji Latvijā

Idejas brīvdienām ģimenēm ar bērnie...

10 iemesli doties brīvdienās pa Lat...

MICHELIN ceļvedis Latvija 2024

Labākās izklaides iespējas tev.

Diennakts basketbola turnīrs “Krast...

Rīgas garšas svētki

Koncertcikls 'Vasaras klasika'

Līdzās ideālam

Džezs Vecrīgā - Mazās ģildes dārzā

Brīvdabas koncertsezona Vērmanes dā...

#latvija instagramā.

Izveido savu piedzīvojumu maršrutu

15 things to do in Riga, Latvia – the ultimate guide

This post may contain affiliate links to tours and hotels. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Latvia’s capital has many things to do and lots to offer the seasoned traveller. From the cobbled streets of its well preserved medieval old town to the cool cafes and epic Central Market ( Europe’s biggest), here is our ‘Riga- rously’ tested (sorry, not sorry!) guide to getting the most out of a weekend in this Baltic beauty:

Table of Contents

How to get to Riga old town from the airport

Riga is easy to reach by air with routes from 83 destinations. There are many direct flights from large European cities served by low cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air .

Riga Airport is approximately 13 km from the old town and can be reached in several ways:

Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the exit of the arrivals terminal, and will cost you around €15-20 for the journey, taking 15 minutes to reach the old town. Alternatively you can book a private transfer in advance online for around €30 – check out the Riga Airport to hotel transfer on GetYourGuide. If you want some cheaper competitive taxi fares download the Bolt ride sharing app (a bit like Uber or Grab).

Public bus number 22 takes 30 minutes to reach the edge of the old town (bus stop: 11.Novembra Krastmala). The bus fare costs €1.15 if you buy your ticket from either the airport office, the ticket machine at the bus stop, or at the Narvesen Kiosk shop (it will cost you €2 if you buy your ticket from the bus driver – cash only). Buses only operate from 5.45am until midnight and depart every 10-20 minutes.

Top things to do in Riga Old Town

1. wander around the old town.

Likely the start for most overseas visitors to Latvia and a major highlight of any Baltic itinerary , Riga’s old town is an absolute medieval gem, with incredible architecture, cobbled streets and numerous squares lined with all manner of restaurants and cafes. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the old town in Riga is easily walkable by foot and is relatively compact – we’d suggest ditching your map / phone and just wandering around (you’ll likely always find your way back to the main square by accident).

There are also lots of walking tours available (and annoying, lots of e-scooter type tours that sneak up on you quietly) so there are plenty of ways to explore the old town.

2. Views of Riga from St Peter’s Church

There are some great spots in the old town to check out some panoramic views from up high. St Peter’s Church is the most popular place to go and entry to the viewing tower will cost you €9. Alternative viewing spots include the observation deck at the Latvian Academy of Sciences and the Riga Skyline Bar .

3. Art Nouveau buildings on Alberta Street

We’d read that Riga has the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world so we knew we didn’t have to look far to find fine examples. With most of the famed Art Nouveau buildings dating from around 1904 to 1910, your best bet is to head to Alberta Street, around a 20-minute walk from Riga’s old town and chock full of the most amazingly detailed buildings and edifices. The street is superb but note that at the time of our visit (September 2019), many of the buildings were covered in scaffolding and netting, for what looked to be major restoration work.

4. Riga Blackheads

One of Riga’s most magnificent old buildings is now home to various events including exhibitions and classical concerts. Built in 1334, the edifice suffered terrible damage and was bombed during the Second World War, but fully rebuilt again and reopened at the turn of the last century (1999).

5. Riga Central Market

The ‘father’ of all food markets (as it supposedly the largest one in Europe), Riga Central Market ranks highly for bountiful food and drink options (and used to be used during the war to store massive zeppelins / air balloons hence the massive size of all the food halls). With fresh food stalls, pop-up restaurants and micro-breweries and bars to choose from, we recommend you head here with an empty stomach and give your taste-buds a treat.

Riga Central Market also features in our Riga Cheap Eats blog – check out our Riga food recommendations here .

Book a Food Tasting Tour of Central Market with GetYourGuide >

6. Riga Dome Cathedral

The largest medieval church in the Baltic States and built in 1211, it now also houses one of the biggest organs in Europe (almost 7,000 pipes!) As such, you may want to check out one of the classical concerts that are now regularly held here (although a bit like Prague, the quality can vary so do your research beforehand to ensure you aren’t fobbed off with some tourist fodder).

7. Freedom Monument 

Located in between Riga’s old and new town on the periphery of one of the main parks, Riga’s Freedom Monument (known as ‘Milda’ by the locals) was put up in 1935 and is just over 40 metres high, meaning it can be seen from all over the city. The woman on the statue holds loft three golden stars (each representing a local region) and the monument is a permanent reminder of Latvia’s struggle in recent years for independence and freedom.

8. Three Brothers

Representing various historic periods and architectural types from Riga’s past, the Three Brothers consists of three houses, forming the ‘oldest complex of dwelling houses’ in the region (legend also has it they were built by three men from the same family…hmmmmmm). We visited a couple of times as when we first viewed them late one afternoon, the Three Brothers were all in shade so choose your visit time carefully.

9. Cat house

Not a cat house in the American Midwest way, but an old town house found in the centre of Riga’s old town, built in 1909. Although the eponymous cats are quite high up, you’ll know you’ve reached your port of call when you see large groups of tourists looking up, craning their necks, struggling to see the two black cats. The angry-looking cats are said to have been placed there by local tradespeople in a dispute with Riga City Hall, who were not happy with the building’s construction.

10. Bastejlalna Park

After visiting the Freedom Monument, take a stroll along the river in Bastejlalna Park – home to heaps of sculptures plus one of the most elaborate birdboxes you will ever see, this is a nice way to escape the hustle and hubris of Riga’s new town. There is also a sedate boat-ride you can take along the river or for the lovers, take a padlock and add it to the Riga’s love-lock bridge, situated in the ‘heart’ of the park.

11. Riga Nativity of Christ Cathedral 

The largest (and dare we say it the most beautiful) Orthodox church in Riga, this cherished Neo-Byzantine monument was constructed in 1884 during the period when Latvia was part of the Soviet Empire. It is accessible to tourists and around a 20-minute walk from the old town but photography inside is prohibited and women must adorn headscarves.

12. National Library

No need to ‘book’ into the National Library of Riga as it is free to visit, but is arguably better viewed from afar, across from the river near to the old town. Known to the locals as the ‘Castle of Light’ – its shape is symbolic of the Hill of Glass and the Castle of Light found in Latvian folklore. Guided tours are available on select days, which include access to the top floor viewing gallery

13. Eat at Lido restaurant

This Latvian chain restaurant is one of the most popular cheap eats in Riga. It is a help yourself buffet comprising of local food which you pay for by weight and is the perfect opportunity to try local specialities at a very low price such as cabbage and beef mince roll , grey peas  and  dressed herring .

For more budget eat recommendations – check out our cheap eats in Riga guide!

14. Enjoy a night out at Folkshub

We went to several bars during our time in Riga but this cavernous inn was our highlight, so much so that we went back every day. Beer prices are cheaper than most of the old town bars (5 Euros for two large dark beers) and the interiors are very atmospheric. With live music most nights, Folkklubs is always busy so visit early if you want to get a table.

Click here to book a Riga Food and Beer Evening Walking Tour on GetYourGuide

15. Try Black Balsam

No visit to Riga is complete with trying the local drink Black Balsam (45% proof) – the taste is hard to describe (paint-thinner perhaps) and it can be had by itself (the most common way) or mixed with the likes of schnapps, vodka, coffee (!) or soft drinks. It is even used by some locals as medicine, so you have been warned – this was also one of the most popular drinks we saw being served in Folkkslubs.

Where to stay in Riga

We stayed at Rixwell Old Riga Palace Hotel , which was affordable and in a great location right in the old town (just 4 minutes walk from Folkshub bar). However the rooms were very small and tired looking (we had a pokey corner room), and the shower was so tiny that if you tried to turn around you would accidentally turn the taps off! We would only rate it for its great location. Check out prices and availability for Rixwell Old Riga Palace Hotel .

Budget options for Riga

The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Award winning hostel located in the old town offering lots of fun activities for it’s guests. Check out prices and availability for The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers .

Wicked Weasel Highly rated hostel with outdoor terrace – offers a variety of tours for it’s guests. Check out prices and availability for Wicked Weasel .

Tree House Hostel for independent travellers who wish to experience relaxing and healthy holidays – offers yoga, free vegetarian breakfasts and a reading area with library and book exchange. Check out prices and availability for Tree House .

Mid range Riga hotels

Monika Centrum Hotel 4 star hotel set in the Neo-Gothic building with on-site sauna and fitness centre. Check out prices and availability for Monika Centrum Hotel .

Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa Elegant hotel with some rooms offering free spa centre access, including a hot tub, swimming pool and a sauna. Check out prices and availability for Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa .

Hotel Gutenbergs Boutique style rooms located in 17th and 19th century connected buildings with a rooftop terrace. Check out prices and availability for Hotel Gutenbergs .

Luxury Riga hotels

Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah Hotel with wellness centre including a pool, sauna, hot tub and a hammam. Check out prices and availability fo r Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah .

Neiburgs Hotel Luxury apartments in an Art-Nouveau-style building in the heart of the old town. Check out prices and availability for Neiburgs Hotel .

Other Europe blog posts

• Things to see and do in Berlin, Germany
• Things to do in Kiev, Ukraine
• Madrid on a budget, Spain
• A weekend in Seville, Spain
• Travel guide: Budapest, Hungary
• How to spend a weekend in Vienna on a budget
• Sofia: budget travel guide, Bulgaria

Did you enjoy our things to do in Riga blog post? Let us know in the comments or by sharing it on social media. Follow us on Instagram !

Things to do in Riga – add to Pinterest!

You Might Also Like...

Silent disco | A guide to the most amazing events in London

16 Best Colourful Places in London Guide (2023)

Top things to do in Budapest, Hungary

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

© CK Travels 2016-2024. All images and text on this website, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted and not to be used or distributed without permission from ourselves.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

This Tiny European Country Is Less Than 16 Miles Long — But It's Home to Medieval Castles, Alpine Villages, and More

Here's why you should plan a trip to Liechtenstein, and what to do once you're there.

• Best Hotels

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, areas to visit, best time to visit, how to get there.

jikgoe/Getty Images

Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a tiny country that covers just 62 square miles and is home to fewer than 40,000 residents. But it's filled with as much culture and natural wonder as a destination 10 times its size — and my husband and I checked it off our travel list on a recent road trip through Europe.

"Liechtenstein is one of those small countries you can travel across in a couple of hours. But, despite being so small, it offers a rich variety of attractions and experiences that make it a great travel destination," Olena Grabova, a world culture specialist at Promova , shared with Travel + Leisure . "It lies comfortably in the beautiful alps, offering breathtaking mountainous landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts." 

Here are all the top places to stay, explore, and dine to experience all the magic that Liechtenstein has to offer. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss your chance to ski or hike in Malbun, the country's coolest mountain town.
• Make a reservation at the celebrated Marée restaurant, which offers a delicious taste of Liechtenstein cuisine.
• Get a view of royal life by checking out the Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein.
• Check out the Prince of Liechtenstein's winery to sip something local.
• Become a local history buff by spending a day at the Liechtenstein National Museum.

Best Hotels 

Park Hotel Sonnenhof, Relais & Châteaux

Park Hotel Sonnenhof

In Vaduz, the nation's capital city, travelers will find the Park Hotel Sonnenhof , a luxury retreat that offers some of the best mountain views in all of Europe. The Relais & Châteaux property offers elegant rooms with high-end furnishings, private patios, and panoramic views out every window. There are also lush gardens to roam, a spa, and fantastic dining options, including the Michelin-recommended Marée restaurant. 

Residence Hotel

Find style and comfort just down the road in Vaduz at the Residence Hotel . The hotel offers spacious family rooms that are great for small groups traveling through Liechtenstein who want all the creature comforts of home, including a minibar, coffee maker, and fast Wi-Fi. Guests can also find breakfast, lunch, dinner, and plenty of snacks at the hotel's bistro.

JUFA Hotel Malbun

Find yourself amid the mountains while staying at JUFA Hotel Malbun . Located in the alpine village of Malbun, the family-friendly hotel provides travelers with easy access to hiking trails and even ski slopes in the winter. The rooms are simpler than the other hotels on this list, but for families and groups of friends looking to spend quality time together, it's all you need. Guests can also spend time in the hotel's wellness area, which comes complete with a sauna and steam bath, let their kids have an adventure all their own at the kids club, and come together for a lovely meal at the hotel's restaurant (sit on the terrace if the weather is nice).

RuslanKaln/Getty Images

View the Vaduz Castle.

Get a glimpse of royal life by viewing the Vaduz Castle , the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein since the 18th century. Travelers are welcome to come and enjoy the gorgeous views of Vaduz and the surrounding area from the castle grounds, but they are not permitted inside as the royal family really does live here. Still, as Grabova noted, "It’s a great spot for photos." She also says, "If you are a wine enthusiast, you should tour the Prince of Liechtenstein winery too, learn about wine production in the region, and taste some of the local wines."

Learn about local history at the Liechtenstein National Museum.

The Liechtenstein National Museum will teach you everything you want to know about the country's history. Here, guests can explore a range of exhibits, including those on religion, the nation's natural history, and even everyday life here in Liechtenstein. Travelers can go through the museum on their own, take an audio guide, or join one of the group tours for a more in-depth experience. 

Hit the slopes in Malbun.

Heading to Liechtenstein this winter? Make sure to stop in Malbun , the nation's main ski resort. It's a small-scale mountain that is home to some rather steep slopes, making it a prime spot for the pros (and there's a fantastic toboggan track if you'd prefer to get your thrills that way). Summer visitors can still explore the mountain by hiking through the verdant landscape. 

Admire the Vaduz Cathedral.

Spend a little time checking out the Vaduz Cathedral , also known as the Cathedral of St. Florin, a neo-Gothic church that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can gaze upon its gorgeous stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.

Demmel Kaffee

Start your visit with a caffeine kick at Demmel Kaffee , a coffee shop that serves essentially any kind of coffee beverage you can dream up. It's also a fantastic spot to snag a freshly baked good and buy some beans to take home with you as a souvenir. 

Marée, located in the Park Hotel Sonnenhof, offers a fantastic dining experience recommended by the Michelin Guide . Here, diners can pick from a menu filled with local ingredients, including homemade veal ravioli, schnitzel, lamb shoulder, and more.

Restaurant Adler

Restaurant Adler is the spot to visit for a traditional Liechtenstein meal. The restaurant, built in 1908, continues to be a family-run operation, now on its fourth generation. Expect regional dishes like schnitzel and local trout and char.

AleksandarGeorgiev/Getty Images

It's almost a requirement to go to Vaduz while visiting Liechtenstein. The capital city has plenty to do and see, including restaurants, shops, and historical sites. Here, you can see the Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, and the Liechtenstein National Museum.

Triesenberg

Find peace and quiet in the charming mountain village of Triesenberg . The community is located high above Vaduz, ensuring awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Take in the views during a hike, or find a scenic viewpoint where you can sit and relax in the fresh mountain air.

If you are looking for more action, stop at Malbun. In the spring, summer, and fall, you can enjoy the captivating landscapes, filled with fresh flowers and emerald green grass. In the winter, you can shred the slopes — or take a ride down the thrilling toboggan runs .

Find one more picture-perfect stop in Balzers , a village in southern Liechtenstein. Here, visitors can take in all those same spectacular views and visit the medieval Gutenberg Castle. It's one fairy-tale last stop to visit en route to your next destination. 

Perszing1982/Getty Images

The best time to visit Liechtenstein is from late spring to early fall (May to September). This is when the weather is at its prime for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and walking through the village streets. That said, there's no "wrong" time to visit.

"Whatever time of year you’re visiting, Liechtenstein knows how to charm you," Grabova said. "For instance, from late spring till early autumn, you can enjoy hiking in the mountains and exploring the countryside. There are a lot of well-marked trails for all levels, including the famous Prince’s Way. So, it doesn’t matter if you are a pro in conquering the long mountain trails or just like walking in the beautiful nature, you’ll get your piece of joy here."

As Grabova also noted, there are several cultural events and festivals that take place during the summer that make it a particularly great time to visit, including the Vaduz Classic music festival and  Liechtenstein Guitar Days , a multi-day festival dedicated to the instrument that draws musicians from all over the world. 

"If you are into winter sports, the beautiful snow-covered landscapes will take your breath away," Grabova added. "Check out Malbun, the key ski resort in the picturesque alpine setting. It is family-friendly with well-groomed slopes, from gentle ones, ideal for beginners and children, to challenging and off-piste ones for pros and daredevils." 

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

The closest major airport to Liechtenstein is Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland, which is serviced by major airlines with routes connecting all over the world. From here, just rent a car and make your way to this tiny European country.

Related Articles