Valmiera - Discovering Latvia

Travelling to Valmiera

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Valmiera, 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 Valmiera 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 Valmiera, 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 Valmiera for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Valmiera

Valmiera is a city in northern Latvia, located on the banks of the Gauja River. It has a population of approximately 24,000 people and is the largest city in the Vidzeme region. Valmiera is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings, including forests, rivers, and lakes. The city offers many attractions and activities for tourists, including museums, art galleries, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Its location also makes it a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and other winter sports. Valmiera is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are many hotels and vacation rentals available for visitors.

What to visit in Valmiera

Certainly! Here are some tourist attractions in Valmiera, Latvia: 1. Valmiermuiza Brewery - This brewery produces organic beers using traditional recipes. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and taste different types of beers. The brewery also has a restaurant where visitors can try local cuisine.
2. Valmiera Old Town - This charming area features cobbled streets and historic buildings that date back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the old town on foot and see the St. Simon’s Church, castle ruins, and the Valmiera Museum.
3. Gauja National Park - This natural park is located near Valmiera and features beautiful forests, rivers, and hiking trails. Visitors can see the ancient sandstone cliffs of the Gauja River Valley, explore the caves of Gutmanala, or take part in outdoor activities like canoeing and tubing.
4. Valmiera Open-Air Stage - This outdoor venue hosts concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment under the stars in a beautiful natural setting.
5. Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences Botanical Garden - This botanical garden features over 2,500 plant varieties from around the world. Visitors can see rare and exotic plants, as well as native Latvian species. The garden also has a greenhouse and a pond with water lilies.
6. Valmiera Drama Theater - This theater hosts a variety of plays and shows throughout the year, ranging from classic dramas to modern productions. Visitors can enjoy performances in the cozy and intimate setting of the theater.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Valmiera, Latvia has to offer.
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 Valmiera.

When to go on holiday to Valmiera

The best time to visit Valmiera, Latvia is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the weather is pleasant with an average temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F) and the days are long with up to 18 hours of daylight. This is an ideal time to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Additionally, there are many events and festivals that take place during these months, such as the Valmiera City Festival and the Valmiera Summer Theatre Festival. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and outdoor winter activities, winter (December to February) can also be a great time to visit Valmiera.

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

How to get to Valmiera

There are a few options to get to Valmiera, Latvia: 1. By plane: The closest airport to Valmiera is Riga International Airport. From there, you can take a bus, train or rent a car to Valmiera, which is around 120 km away.
2. By train: Valmiera has a train station located in the city center. You can take a train from either Riga or Tartu.
3. By bus: Valmiera has a bus station located in the city center. You can take a bus from either Riga or Tartu, as well as other cities in Latvia.
4. By car: Valmiera is located on the main highway that runs between Riga and Tartu. You can rent a car and drive from either city.
No matter which option you choose, I recommend checking schedules and prices ahead of time to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Valmiera, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Valmiera

Here are some typical foods from Valmiera, Latvia: 1. Laima - This is a chocolate brand that originated in Valmiera and is a local favorite.
2. Black Balsam - This is a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur that is commonly consumed as an after-dinner drink. It is made with a blend of different herbs and spices, and has a strong taste.
3. Smoked fish - The rivers in Latvia are full of fish, and smoked fish is a popular local specialty. Trout, salmon, and eel are commonly smoked and served either hot or cold.
4. Aukstā zupa - This is a cold soup made with buttermilk, beets, potatoes, and cucumbers. It's a refreshing dish that is popular during the summer months.
5. Jāņu cheese - This is a type of soft cheese that is traditionally made for the Midsummer holiday (Jāņi). It is made with cow's milk and has a mild, tangy flavor.
6. Pīrāgi - These are small, savory pastries filled with bacon, onions, and sometimes cheese. They are a popular snack or appetizer in Latvia.
7. Rupjmaize - This is a type of dense, whole-grain bread that is a staple in Latvian cuisine. It is often served with butter and cheese.
You can find general info about typical foods in Latvia here.

Is Valmiera an expensive destination for tourists?

Valmiera is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to larger cities in Europe. However, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, food, and activities, might be less expensive in Valmiera than in cities like Riga or Tallinn. Additionally, you may find deals on local transportation and attractions. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices beforehand to make sure they fit within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Valmiera

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Valmiera (Latvia) are: 1. The city center: This area has easy access to the town’s landmarks and attractions such as St. Simon's Church and Valmiera Museum.
2. Liepupe Manor: This is a historic area with a beautiful manor that has now been turned into a hotel, and it's just a short drive from Valmiera.
3. Koceni: This is a rural area just on the outskirts of Valmiera, offering peaceful and scenic rural accommodation options.
4. Beverina: Located about 20km away from Valmiera, this area is known for its pristine nature and plenty of outdoor activities.
You can check hotel prices at Valmiera here:
Booking.com

Is Valmiera a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Valmiera is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. However, like any other city, it is always important to take general safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and not walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. It is also recommended to follow any specific safety guidelines provided by your accommodation or tour guide. Additionally, you can check with the local tourism office or police department for more information on safety in the area.
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 Valmiera.

What type of travelers will enjoy Valmiera the most?

Valmiera in Latvia is a great destination for various types of travelers, such as history buffs and nature enthusiasts. The city boasts a picturesque old town and historical landmarks, including the Valmiera Castle ruins. Valmiera is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking.
In terms of specific types of travelers, couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the city's charming atmosphere and opportunities for cozy walks and intimate dinners. Young people who enjoy nightlife may also find Valmiera appealing, particularly for its bars and clubs. Families will appreciate the city's family-friendly attractions, like the Valmiera Adventure Park and the Valmiera Open-Air Stage, which hosts family-friendly cultural events.

How to get around Valmiera

In Valmiera, the most common modes of transportation are buses, taxis, and walking. The city has a reliable public bus system, which is operated by TAK Valmiera, and covers most areas of the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through a phone application. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially in the historic center, as most of the attractions and landmarks are located within a small area. Additionally, Valmiera is a bike-friendly city, and there are several bike rental services available for those who prefer to explore the city on two wheels.

What to see around Valmiera

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Valmiera: 1. Cesis Medieval Castle - a well-preserved castle with beautiful medieval architecture, located in the charming town of Cesis.
2. Gauja National Park - a beautiful natural area with stunning landscapes, hiking trails and plenty of wildlife.
3. Sigulda - a small town situated in the Gauja River Valley, known for its historical landmarks including the Sigulda Castle ruins, the Gutmana Cave, and the Turaida Castle.
4. Ungurmuiža Manor - a renovated 18th-century manor house with beautiful gardens, situated in the picturesque countryside near Valmiera.
5. Krimulda Manor - a historic manor house with a beautiful park and gardens, located in the heart of the Gauja River Valley.
6. Kuldiga - a charming town with a beautiful old town area, the medieval Liepaja Castle, and the impressive Venta Waterfall.
7. Araisi Archaeological Park - a unique open-air museum showcasing reconstructed Iron Age Latgalian buildings and artifacts.
8. Rundale Palace - a stunning Baroque palace located just south of Valmiera in the nearby nation of Latvia, with beautiful gardens and rooms to explore.
For every travel information about Latvia you can click here.

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