Gulbene - Discovering Latvia

Travelling to Gulbene

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gulbene, a pretty good destination in Latvia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gulbene and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gulbene, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Latvia, here's everything to know about Gulbene for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gulbene

Gulbene is a town located in the northeastern part of Latvia, in the historical region of Vidzeme. It has a population of around 8,000 people and covers an area of 6.5 square kilometers. The town is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including Lake Razna and the Gulbene-Aluksne Railway. It also has several cultural and historical attractions, such as the Gulbene Museum of Local History and the Gulbene Lutheran Church. The town is easily accessible by road and rail, and there are several accommodation options available for visitors.

What to visit in Gulbene

Here are some tourist attractions in Gulbene, Latvia: 1. Gulbene-Aluksne Railway - A unique narrow-gauge railway that runs through picturesque landscapes and historic villages of Gauja and Vidzeme.
2. The Gulbene Flower Garden - A beautiful collection of flowers and plants, including dahlias, roses, lilies, and hydrangeas, situated in the heart of the city.
3. Gulbene Regional History Museum - An interesting museum that showcases the history, culture, and traditions of the Gulbene region, with exhibits such as old photographs, costumes, and tools.
4. The Church of St. Peter and Paul - A stunning church with a rich history, built in the 18th century in the Baroque style. Visitors can admire the beautiful interior and the ornate frescoes and paintings.
5. Lake Lielezers - A popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating, surrounded by forests and hills. Visitors can also explore the nearby hiking trails and picnic areas.
6. Kraslava Palace - A magnificent 18th-century palace, located about 60 km from Gulbene, in the town of Kraslava. The palace features an impressive collection of artwork and furniture, as well as beautiful gardens and fountains.
7. Vienkoči Park - A nature park located in the nearby town of Vecpiebalga, featuring a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the park.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that await you in Gulbene and its surrounding areas!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Latvia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gulbene.

When to go on holiday to Gulbene

The best time to go on holiday to Gulbene is during the months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and pleasant for outdoor activities. During these months, you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, cycling, and swimming in the beautiful lakes and rivers. However, if you prefer a quieter and more serene environment, you can also visit Gulbene during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the foliage and vegetation are changing colours, providing picturesque landscapes for nature lovers. It is important to note that during the winter months (December-March), temperatures can drop to below freezing, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gulbene

To get to Gulbene in Latvia, the best option is to take a train. There are regular train services from the capital city of Riga to Gulbene.
The trip from Riga to Gulbene takes approximately 3 hours. You can check the schedule and buy tickets on the Latvian Railway website or at the train station.
Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Riga to Gulbene, but there are fewer bus services available compared to the train services. The bus trip takes around 4 hours, and you can check the schedule and buy tickets on the bus operator's website or at the bus station.
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Riga and drive to Gulbene. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and you can rent a car from various car rental companies in Riga.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gulbene, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gulbene

Sure, here are some typical foods of Gulbene, Latvia and their descriptions: 1. Pīrāgi - a traditional Latvian pastry stuffed with bacon and onion.
2. Sklandrausis - a sweet baked pastry filled with a mixture of potatoes, carrots, and rye flour.
3. Maizes zupa - a hearty rye bread soup filled with potatoes, bacon, and onions.
4. Aukstais zupa - a cold beet soup that is a popular summertime dish.
5. Karbonāde - a breaded and fried pork chop often served with a side of potatoes or vegetables.
6. Pīrādziņi - a bite-sized version of pīrāgi stuffed with various fillings such as cheese, mushrooms, or vegetables.
7. Pankūkas - Latvian pancakes that can be sweet or savory. They are often filled with jam, sour cream, or savory fillings such as meat or vegetables.
8. Rupjmaizes kārtojums - a traditional Latvian dessert made with layers of rye bread, whipped cream, and fruit or berry jam.
Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Latvia here.

Is Gulbene an expensive destination for tourists?

Gulbene is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists in Latvia. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are generally lower than in larger cities in the country. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of activities you plan to do. Overall, you should be able to find a comfortable stay and enjoy local cuisine without breaking the bank in Gulbene.

Where to find accomodation in Gulbene

The best places to find accommodations in Gulbene, Latvia are in the city center and along the main road leading into the city, such as Rigas Street. That said, there are a variety of options to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and apartments. Additionally, it's worth noting that some visitors choose to stay just outside of the city in more rural areas, where they can enjoy nature and scenic views. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference and the type of experience you want to have while visiting Gulbene.
You can check hotel prices at Gulbene here:
Booking.com

Is Gulbene a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Gulbene is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and take common sense safety precautions, such as keeping valuable possessions close to you and being aware of your surroundings. It's also important to note that natural hazards, such as icy conditions in winter or heavy rain in summer, can occur. It's always a good idea to check weather forecasts and adjust your plans accordingly.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Latvia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gulbene.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gulbene the most?

Gulbene, Latvia is a small town with a population of approximately 9,000 people. It is located in the eastern part of Latvia and is known for its beautiful nature, historical landmarks, and cultural events. Gulbene is a great place for families who love spending time in nature and exploring historical landmarks. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and lakes where you can go hiking, fishing, and camping. The town has a number of historical landmarks, such as the Gulbene Castle and the Gulbene Aluksne Railway, which are great for learning about the town's history.
Couples who want a relaxing and peaceful getaway will also enjoy Gulbene. The town has a number of cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks. The beautiful nature and peaceful atmosphere of the town make it a great place for a romantic trip.
Young people who are looking for fun may find Gulbene to be a bit too quiet. However, the town does host a number of cultural events throughout the year, such as the Gulbene Arts Festival and the Gulbene Music Festival, which may be of interest to young travelers who are interested in the arts and culture.

How to get around Gulbene

The most common modes of transportation in Gulbene, Latvia are buses and taxis. There is no direct access to trains in Gulbene, but the nearest stations are in Alūksne and Gulbene, with regular connections to other cities in Latvia. Walking and cycling are also popular ways of moving around the town.

What to see around Gulbene

Here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Gulbene (Latvia): 1. Cesis: This charming town is known for its impressive medieval castle, beautiful parklands, and quaint cobblestone streets. 2. Sigulda: Situated in the scenic Gauja National Park, Sigulda is known for its historic castles, stunning natural scenery, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. 3. Valmiera: Set on the banks of the Gauja River, Valmiera is home to a beautiful medieval castle, historic churches, and lovely parks and gardens. 4. Jūrmala: This popular seaside resort town is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, picturesque wooden villas, and vibrant cultural scene. 5. Riga: The Latvian capital is just a short train ride from Gulbene and offers a plethora of fascinating attractions, from its magnificent Art Nouveau architecture to its bustling markets and museums.
For every travel information about Latvia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.