LATVIA
Latvia Destination Info
Latvia, situated in the middle of the three Baltic States, is also the second largest country out of the three. This rather small country is sharing borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia and Belarus, and a maritime border with Sweden. Due to being invaded by many regional powers, Latvia has more cultural layers and a less homogeneous population than its neighbours. Latvia gained its independence from the Soviet Union a year later than its southern neighbour Lithuania. The country offers vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, historic towns, and stunning natural landscapes. Riga, the capital, is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, bustling Central Market, and charming Old Town, all recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond Riga, visitors can explore Gauja National Park with its medieval castles and Kemeri National Park with its wetlands and mineral springs. Latvia’s Baltic Sea coastline includes popular destinations like Jurmala, famous for its white sandy beaches and cultural events. Historic towns such as Cesis and Kuldiga offer medieval charm and unique attractions like Europe’s widest waterfall.
Latvia also hosts traditional festivals such as the Jani midsummer celebration and the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, showcasing the country’s vibrant folk culture. Whether seeking urban excitement, natural beauty, or cultural richness, Latvia is a must-visit destination in the Baltic region.
Latvia Tour Packages
Classic Baltic Tour
10 Days / 9 Nights
FROM €1675
Complete Baltic Holiday
16 Days / 15 Nights
FROM €3250
Baltic Christmas Tour
8 Days / 7 Nights
FROM €1175
Where to go in Latvia
Riga
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is an architectural jewel. You can find churches from the city’s origins, medieval buildings, unique examples of Art Nouveau, as well as centuries old wooden architecture and modern architectural there. Riga’s Old Town and its surrounding city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although its old town helped the city achieve this status, it’s the Art Nouveau architecture that really sets the city apart from other European capitals. Walk through the charming streets in the old town, discover the wooden architecture in Kalnciema Quarter, taste local delicacies at the Riga Central Market and gaze at the splendour of Riga’s Art Nouveau facades during our Baltic tours.
Kuldiga
Charming and romantic Kuldiga is a popular getaway destination amongst locals and worth a visit during your trip to Latvia. The narrow cobbled streets, cozy atmosphere, and tidy urban environment of the city make it ideal for romantic walks. A definite must-do in Kuldīga is checking out the Venta Rapids, Europe’s widest waterfall. You could go for a swim in the Venta at the Mārtiņsala blue flag bathing area or just observe the calm waters of the river from the old brick bridge. Explore the old town and discover the well-developed restaurant and café culture. Additionally, the town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant charm.
Gauja National Park
Gauja National Park is the largest national park in Latvia, located in the northeastern part of the country. The park covers an area of over 900 square kilometers and is known for its stunning natural beauty, which includes forests, rivers, caves, and rock formations. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including brown bears, lynx, and wolves, as well as rare bird species like the black stork and the lesser spotted eagle. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking and kayaking. The park is also home to several historic sites, including medieval castles, churches, and manor houses, which offer a glimpse into Latvia's rich cultural heritage.
Liepaja
Liepaja, on Latvia's picturesque western shore, charms visitors with its rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Blue Flag beaches invite relaxation and water sports, while the Old Town's cobblestone streets lead to cozy cafes and colorful buildings. Don't miss the iconic Holy Trinity Lutheran Cathedral or the city's cultural events. Explore the historic Karosta Naval Port for a deeper understanding of Liepaja's maritime heritage. Surrounded by scenic beauty, Liepaja offers outdoor activities from hiking to sailing. In Liepaja, every moment promises history, culture, and natural wonders.
Jurmala
Jurmala, nestled along Latvia's Baltic coast, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and vibrant atmosphere. The town's Blue Flag beaches are perfect for seaside relaxation and water activities, while the charming wooden villas of the Kemeri district offer a glimpse into Jurmala's rich architectural heritage. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Kemeri National Park and the Kemeri Bog, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, and birdwatching amidst the region's natural beauty. In Jurmala, every moment promises a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and outdoor adventure amidst the coastal landscapes.
Daugavpils
Daugavpils, nestled in Latvia's eastern region, captivates visitors with its rich history, cultural diversity, and picturesque surroundings. The city's iconic Daugavpils Fortress stands as a testament to its storied past, offering a glimpse into centuries of heritage. Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where historic buildings and vibrant markets showcase the city's cultural vibrancy. Don't miss the stunning Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre, which houses an impressive collection of the artist's works. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Daugava River and lush countryside, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, and boating amidst nature's splendor.
Useful Facts About Latvia
Latvia at a glance
Capital city: Riga
Population: 1.9 million
Currency: EUR
Language: Latvian
Dialling code: +371
Best time to visit Latvia
The best time to visit Latvia is in spring or summer, when the weather is the nicest. July and August are the hottest months. If you’d like to spend some time along the Baltic Sea, the best time would be from June till early/mid September. From the end of August till the end of the year, it rains the most. If you’re not scared of the cold and would like to experience the magical winter, January and February are the best and that’s when you have the highest chances of seeing some snow. Of course Christmas is also a good time to visit with many beautiful Christmas markets to see. You can read more about it from our Best Time to Visit the Baltic States blog post.
Latvia health & safety
Generally, Latvia is a safe country to travel to. At the same time you should still pay attention to your surroundings and use common sense. Don’t walk the dark streets at night, never leave your drink unattended, keep an eye on your belongings and keep your money safe. Pay attention to scammers who may start a conversation unexpectedly and invite you to their favourite club or bar. We also recommend that you check with your government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure.
Public holidays in Latvia
- 1 Jan New Year’s Day
- 15 Apr Good Friday
- 18 Apr Easter Monday
- 1 May Labour Day
- 4 May Independence Restoration Day
- 23 Jun Midsummer’s Eve
- 24 Jun St John’s Day (Midsummer’s Day)
- 18 Nov Independence Day
- 24 Dec Christmas Eve
- 25 Dec Christmas Day
- 26 Dec 2nd Day of Christmas
- 31 Dec New Year’s Eve
Please note these dates are for 2022. For a current list of public holidays in Latvia go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/latvia/public-holidays
Latvian tastes
Hearty cuisine made from belly-filling carbohydrates and meats, as well as a love of foraging describes Latvian food the best. With Latvia being at the edge of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga, there are plenty of unique fish-focused dishes available in most restaurants, especially along the coast. To wash down the hearty meals, Latvians love their beer and strong liqueur, such as the famous Riga Black Balsam. Different juices made out of wild berries and of course the Slavic fermented rye bread drink Kvass, are also popular drinks worth trying.
Blog Posts About Latvia
What to do in Riga on a Rainy Day?
You might be wondering what to do in Riga on a rainy day. Below is a list of our suggestions on what to do on a rainy day in Riga....
Latvia National Parks
Latvia boasts four stunning national parks that showcase the beauty of Latvia's landscapes, from pristine forests to shimmering lakes and rugged coastline...
Best Day Trips From Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius
Visiting capital cities is always interesting and you can find many restaurants, museums and different activities to do...
