Ventspils - Discovering Latvia

Travelling to Ventspils

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

General info for a trip to Ventspils

Ventspils is a coastal city located in the northwestern part of Latvia, on the Baltic Sea. It has a population of around 40,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century, and there are numerous museums and landmarks that showcase this history. Ventspils is also known for its seafood cuisine and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

What to visit in Ventspils

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Ventspils, Latvia: 1. Ventspils Beach - This is a beautiful sandy beach located on the coast of the Baltic Sea. The beach is known for its crystal clear water, white sand and a wide range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
2. Livonian Order Castle - This castle was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important historical buildings in Ventspils. The castle has been renovated in a Gothic style and now serves as a museum showcasing the history of the region.
3. Ventspils Olympic Center - The Olympic Center is a sports complex that was built for the athletes during the 2012 Olympic Games. The center has a modern swimming pool, a gym, and several other facilities.
4. Adventure park "Tarzan" - This is an outdoor adventure park with different rides, rope courses, climbing walls, and zip lines. The park is an excellent place for families with children and adventure seekers.
5. Seaside Open-Air Museum - This museum is located near the beach and displays the living traditions of the Latvian coastal fishermen and farmers. The museum has several thatched-roof buildings, old boats, and fishing equipment. 6. Ventspils Museum - The museum is located in the Old Town and showcases the history of Ventspils from the earliest times until the present day. The museum has a large collection of archeological findings, cultural heritage objects, and photographs. 7. The Promenade - This is a beautiful walkway along the river Venta offering stunning views of the Old Town and the Harbour. It is the perfect place to take a stroll and get some fresh air while enjoying the beautiful Latvian scenery. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Ventspils!
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 Ventspils.

When to go on holiday to Ventspils

The best time to visit Ventspils is during the summer months of June, July, and August, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Additionally, Ventspils hosts a number of festivals and events during this time, such as the Sea Festival in July, which is a great way to experience local culture. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, you can also visit during the shoulder seasons of May and September. However, keep in mind that the weather can be more unpredictable during these times.

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

How to get to Ventspils

There are several ways to get to Ventspils (Latvia): 1) By plane: The closest airport to Ventspils is Riga International Airport, which is approximately 190 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus, train or taxi to get to Ventspils.
2) By bus: There are regular bus services that connect Ventspils with other major Latvian cities, such as Riga, Liepaja, and Daugavpils. You can check the schedules and purchase tickets online through the website of the main bus company "Travelon".
3) By train: Unfortunately, there is no direct train connection to Ventspils. However, you can take a train from Riga or Liepaja and then transfer to a bus or local transportation to get to Ventspils.
4) By car: If you have access to a car, you can drive to Ventspils using the main Latvian highways - A10 or A9. The journey from Riga should take around 2.5 hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ventspils, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ventspils

Sure, here are some typical foods you can find in Ventspils, Latvia: 1. Biezpiena sieriņš - This is a type of Latvian cheese that is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. It is made from a mixture of curd cheese, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Sprādzes - This Latvian pastry is similar to a doughnut that is filled with jam or cream and covered in sugar or glaze. 3. Ķimeņu rausis - A type of savory pastry made with a mixture of rye flour, caraway seeds, and bacon. 4. Jāņi cheese - A type of soft cheese that is made from cow's milk and mixed with caraway seeds and salt. It is often served during traditional Latvian celebrations, particularly during the midsummer festival of Jāņi.
5. Aukstais zupa - A cold soup made with kefir, beets, cucumbers, and dill. It is refreshing and perfect for warm summer days. 6. Sklandrausis - A traditional Latvian pastry that is made with a mixture of rye flour and potato, filled with a sweet mixture of carrot, sugar, and cinnamon.
You can find general info about typical foods in Latvia here.

Is Ventspils an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Latvia, Ventspils can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists. However, in general, prices are significantly lower than in many other European countries. Expect to pay more for accommodation during peak season (summer months) and for some tourist attractions. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options for those who are looking to save money. Overall, Ventspils can be a great destination for travelers on a moderate budget.

Where to find accomodation in Ventspils

The best areas to find accommodation in Ventspils would be the city center, where you can find a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Other good areas to look for accommodation are by the beach, which is a popular tourist destination, or in the quieter residential areas if you prefer a more peaceful environment. Additionally, you could also consider staying near popular attractions such as the Ventspils Museum or the Adventure Park to make sightseeing more accessible.
You can check hotel prices at Ventspils here:
Booking.com

Is Ventspils a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ventspils is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the most common type of crime is petty theft, such as pickpocketing. As with any destination, it is important for visitors to take standard safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and avoiding unlit areas at night.
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 Ventspils.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ventspils the most?

Ventspils, Latvia is a great place for families and couples who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The city has a lot of tourist attractions like the Ventspils Museum Reserve, the Ventspils Beach, and the Children's Town, which offer a range of activities suitable for families with kids.
It is also a perfect destination for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts as the city is bike-friendly with many bike paths and trails available. For couples, Ventspils is an ideal place to enjoy long walks on the beach, exploring the lighthouse, and visiting the local parks and gardens.
There are also many cultural events that take place in Ventspils such as the Ventspils City Festival, White Night, and the Ventspils Music Festival, which cater to a diverse audience. So, while it may not be the go-to destination for young people looking for a wild nightlife experience, Ventspils has a lot to offer to travelers who are looking for a relaxing, family-friendly vacation.

How to get around Ventspils

There are several transportation options to move around Ventspils, Latvia including: - Bus: Ventspils has a well-developed local bus network that is both affordable and efficient. The buses run regularly and cover most of the city's main areas. - Bike: Ventspils has many bike rental options that enable visitors to explore the city's numerous bike paths and trails. - Car: Renting a car is a viable and convenient option. However, the city is relatively small and has limited parking space, which might make it more difficult to find a parking spot in peak hours. - Walking: Ventspils is a walkable city, and most of the attractions are located in the centre of the town, making it relatively easy to travel on foot.

What to see around Ventspils

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ventspils: 1. Kuldiga - known for its picturesque waterfalls (Vērmanes Waterfall) and historic architecture. It is located approximately 60 km east of Ventspils.
2. Cape Kolka - where the Gulf of Riga meets the open sea and also known for its amazing sunsets. It is approximately 90 km north from Ventspils.
3. Liepaja - a port city with a rich naval history and beautiful sandy beaches. It's located approximately 75 km south of Ventspils.
4. Talsi - a charming town known for its lake and castle ruins. It's located approximately 50 km southeast of Ventspils.
5. Dundaga - a small town known for its picturesque castle ruins and nearby nature trails. It's approximately 34 km southeast of Ventspils.
For every travel information about Latvia you can click here.

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