Latvia

Latvia: general info for travelers

Latvia is a country located in Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea. Its capital is Riga, which is also the largest city in the country. Latvia has a population of around 1.9 million people and its official language is Latvian. The country has a diverse landscape, with forests, lakes, rivers, and a long coastline. Latvian culture is deeply rooted in folk traditions and the country has a vibrant music and arts scene. Latvia also has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. In the 20th century, Latvia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since become a member of the European Union and NATO.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Latvia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Latvia: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Latvia: 1. Riga: Riga is the capital and largest city in Latvia, known for its charming Old Town, Gothic architecture, and Art Nouveau buildings. The city is also home to several excellent museums, including the Latvian National Museum of Art and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.
2. Jurmala: Jurmala is a beautiful resort town located on the Gulf of Riga, known for its sandy beaches and natural beauty. The town is also home to several excellent spas, restaurants, and shopping areas.
3. Sigulda: Sigulda is a small town near Riga, known for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can hike, bike, or zip-line through the nearby Gauja National Park or explore the town's medieval castles and ruins.
4. Cesis: Cesis is a charming medieval town known for its well-preserved historic buildings, including a castle dating back to the 13th century. The town is also surrounded by beautiful forests, making it an excellent destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
5. Kuldiga: Kuldiga is a small town known for its picturesque Old Town, cobblestone streets, and stunning waterfall. The town is also home to several historic buildings, including a 17th-century bridge and a 13th-century castle.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
There is more to see and do in Latvia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Latvia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Latvia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Latvia experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summer months (June to August) are usually warm with average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter months (December to February) can be quite cold with average temperatures around -6 to -3°C (21-27°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months tend to be cooler with average temperatures around 5-15°C (41-59°F). In terms of the best time to visit, it depends on your preferences. If you enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing, then summer is a great time to visit as the weather is warm and there are many festivals and events taking place. However, if you enjoy winter sports and activities, then the winter months can be a good time to visit for skiing, ice skating, and other winter sports. Overall, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn can also be a good time to visit as the crowds are smaller and there are still plenty of things to do and see.

Latvia: activities and what to do

There are many activities and sports to do on a holiday in Latvia. Here are some of the popular ones: 1. Hiking: Latvia has several beautiful, well-marked hiking trails, including the Gauja National Park and the Kemeri National Park.
2. Cycling: The country has a well-developed network of cycle paths, and it's a great way to explore the countryside and coastal areas.
3. Kayaking and Canoeing: Latvia has many rivers, lakes and the sea, which makes it a great spot for kayaking and canoeing.
4. Swimming: The country has a lot of beaches and swimming spots both in the sea and inland waters.
5. Fishing: Latvia has many lakes and rivers that offer several fishing opportunities for experienced and novice anglers.
6. Golf: Latvia offers several golf courses in its beautiful countryside.
7. Snow sports: During winter, Latvia's resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling opportunities.
8. Wildlife watching: Latvia has a variety of wildlife that includes wild boar, deer, elk, and many birds. These are just a few of the popular activities and sports that you can do during your holiday in Latvia.

Latvia: few words on history and culture

Latvia has a rich history and culture, influenced by its location between Russia and Western Europe. The Latvian people have a deep rooted ethnic heritage, with strong sense of national identity. The country has been occupied by various nations over the centuries, including Germans, Swedes, Russians, and Soviets, leading to a diverse mix of cultural influences. Latvia is known for its traditional folk music and dance, with many festivals and events throughout the year celebrating this aspect of their culture. The country is also famous for its wooden architecture, which can be seen in its old towns and countryside. Riga, the capital city, has a beautiful Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring stunning examples of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture.
In terms of cuisine, Latvia has a rich culinary tradition rooted in the local ingredients and agricultural heritage. Some of the most popular dishes include smoked fish, sausages, black bread, and potato dishes, all of which are rich in flavor and history. Overall, Latvia is a fascinating destination with a unique cultural heritage and rich history that is worth exploring.

Latvia: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transportation to reach Latvia would be by plane as there are several international airports in the country. Riga International Airport is the main airport and has numerous direct flights from many European cities. Once in Latvia, you can travel within the country by car, bus, train or tram. The public transport system is well developed and efficient, with many routes connecting different parts of the country. Trains are a good option for traveling between major cities, while buses are better if you want to explore smaller towns and villages. Car rental is also easily available, although driving in the country can be challenging due to heavy traffic during peak hours. To hire a car to visit Latvia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Latvia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Latvia with a full stomach:D
Some of the typical foods of Latvia are: 1. Grey peas and bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) - This traditional Latvian dish consists of boiled grey peas and pieces of crispy smoked bacon. It is often garnished with chopped onions and sour cream.
2. Potato pancakes (Kartupeļu pankūkas) - These thin and crispy potato pancakes are made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour. They are usually served hot with a dollop of sour cream or apple sauce.
3. Rye bread (Rupjmaize) - Rye bread is a staple in the Latvian cuisine. It is a dark and dense bread made from rye flour and malted rye grains. It is often served with butter or cheese.
4. Smoked fish (Kūpināta zivs) - The Latvian coastline is abundant in different kinds of fish, which are often smoked and served as a delicacy. The most popular smoked fish in Latvia are salmon, eel, and sprats.
5. Kānepe (Hemp butter) - Kānepe is a hemp butter that is a popular addition to bread or potatoes. It is made by mixing ground hemp seeds with melted butter.
6. Sklandrausis - Sklandrausis is a traditional Latvian dessert. It is a small pie made from rye flour and filled with a mixture of mashed potatoes, carrots, and sweetened cottage cheese. It is usually flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Latvia. There are many more dishes and delicacies that are worth trying when visiting Latvia.

Latvia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to other countries in Europe, Latvia is considered to be a relatively affordable country for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are generally lower than in Western European countries. That being said, prices can vary depending on the season, location, and type of establishment you are visiting. Riga, the capital city, can be more expensive than other smaller towns or rural areas. But overall, Latvia can be a great destination for travelers on a budget.

Latvia: where to find accodation

There are many options for accommodation in Latvia, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. Here are some popular websites to look for accommodation in Latvia: 1. Booking.com - This website provides a wide range of options for accommodation, such as hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and resorts. You can filter your search by price, location, and amenities.
2. Airbnb - If you're looking for a more local experience, Airbnb is a great option. You can rent a private room or an entire apartment/house from locals in Latvia.
3. Hotels.com - This website offers a variety of hotels and resorts in Latvia, with user reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.
4. Hostelworld - If you're on a tight budget, you can browse through Hostelworld's selection of hostels in Latvia.
5. Expedia - Expedia provides a range of accommodation types, including hotels, resorts, apartments, and guesthouses. You can also bundle your flight and accommodation for additional savings.
These are just a few options, but there are many other websites and resources available to find accommodation in Latvia.
You can check hotel prices in Latvia here:
Booking.com

Latvia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Latvian Central Statistical Bureau, in 2019, Latvia received 2.2 million tourists. The most popular months for travel to Latvia are May through September, with the peak season occurring in July and August. During these months, some popular tourist destinations and events may be relatively crowded, but overall Latvia is not as crowded as other popular tourist destinations in Europe.
Latvia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, like any destination, there are certain areas that should be avoided or approached with caution. In the cities, it is advisable to avoid the unlit and isolated areas at night and keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Some neighborhoods, such as the Maskavas Forštate district in Riga, may have higher rates of crime and should be visited with caution. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the risk of petty theft in tourist areas and take the necessary precautions to safeguard their belongings. Overall, common sense and awareness are key to staying safe in Latvia.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Latvia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Latvia: events for tourists

There are several interesting events and festivals in Latvia that can attract tourists, depending on their interests. Here are some examples: 1. Latvian Song and Dance Festival - held every five years in Riga, this festival celebrates Latvian folk music, choral singing, and traditional dance.
2. Riga International Film Festival - held annually in October, this festival showcases a selection of contemporary and classic films from around the world.
3. Sigulda Opera Festival - held annually in July, this festival offers performances of opera, ballet, and other classical music genres in the picturesque town of Sigulda.
4. Latvian Design Festival - held annually in May or June, this festival showcases design exhibitions, workshops, and conferences in Riga and other cities.
5. Cesis Medieval Festival - held annually in July, this festival recreates the medieval atmosphere of Cesis with knight tournaments, archery contests, and other historical-themed activities.
These events are just a few examples of the many cultural and entertaining activities that Latvia has to offer for visitors.

Latvia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Latvia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Latvia: Day 1-2: Arrival in Riga. Explore the historic Old Town, visit Riga Castle, St. Peter's Church, and the Freedom Monument. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Jūrmala, a famous seaside resort town known for its sandy beaches, natural parks, and spas.
Day 4-6: Head to Sigulda, a picturesque town located in the scenic Gauja National Park. Explore the Sigulda Castle, Gutmanis Cave, and take the cable car for stunning views.
Day 7-9: Head northeast to the Latgale region, famous for its large lakes, forests and old castles. Visit Daugavpils city, which is known for its wonderful fortress, cute streets, and beautiful churches.
Day 10-12: Head to Liepaja and explore the unique mix of history and modernity. Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and discover the Karosta district, a former military port city.
Day 13-14: Finally, visit Cēsis, a charming city with a rich history located in the beautiful Gauja National Park. Walk around the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and visit the Castle ruins.
This two-week itinerary will give you a good taste of what Latvia has to offer, from its rich history, stunning nature, and unique cuisine. Safe travels!

Latvia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Latvia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aizkraukle is a town located in the central part of Latvia, situated on the banks of the Daugava River. It has a population of around 8,000 people. The town has a rich history and many cultural and hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aizkraukle
- Aizpute is a small town located in western Latvia, approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) southwest of Riga. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is the center of the Aizpute Municipality.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aizpute
- Aluksne is a beautiful town located in the northeast of Latvia, near the borders with Russia and Estonia. It is known for its picturesque scenery, with many lakes, forests, and hills surrounding the t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aluksne
- Baloži is a town situated in the eastern part of Latvia, near the capital city Riga. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is part of the Ķekava municipality. Baloži has a pleasant rural atmo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baloži
- Balvi is a town located in the eastern part of Latvia, near the Russian border. It has a population of around 7,000 people and is the administrative center of the Balvi municipality. The town has a ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balvi
- Bauska is a town located in the southern part of Latvia, near the border with Lithuania. It is divided by the Mūsa river, which is a tributary of the biggest river in Latvia - the Daugava. Bauska is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bauska
- Carnikava is a small town located in northern Latvia, on the banks of the Gauja River, just a few kilometers from the Baltic Sea. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Carnikava
- Cesis is a small town located in the northern part of Latvia, about 90 km from the capital city Riga. It is known for its well-preserved medieval castle ruins, picturesque old town with beautiful wood... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cesis
- Daugavpils is a city in southeastern Latvia, located near the border with Belarus and Lithuania. It is the second-largest city in Latvia, with a population of approximately 85,000 people. The city has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daugavpils
- 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 k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gulbene
- Iecava is a small town located in the southern part of Latvia, about 40 kilometers from the capital city of Riga. It has a population of around 4,000 people and is situated near the Iecava River. Hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iecava
- Jaunjelgava is a small town located in the central part of Latvia, on the banks of the Daugava River. The town is known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. It has a populatio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jaunjelgava
- Jekabpils is a town located in central Latvia, situated on the banks of the rivers Daugava and Lielupe. It is known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and cultural heritage. The town has several... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jekabpils
- Jelgava is a city in central Latvia, located about 41 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Riga. It is the fourth-largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 60,000 people. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jelgava
- Jurmala is a resort town in Latvia, situated on the Baltic Sea's Gulf of Riga. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches, scenic pine forests, and mineral-rich thermal springs. The city has a ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jurmala
- Karsava is a town in eastern Latvia, located in the region of Latgale. It has a population of approximately 2,200 people and is situated near the border with Belarus. The town is known for its rich cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karsava
- Kegums is a town located in the central part of Latvia. It is situated on the banks of the Daugava River and is known for its hydroelectric power station which is one of the largest in the country. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kegums
- Kekava is a small town located in the Vidzeme region of Latvia. It has a population of about 5,000 inhabitants and it is situated approximately 20km southeast of the capital city, Riga. Kekava is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kekava
- Kuldiga is a historic city located in western Latvia, on the banks of the Venta River. It is known for its charming old town, picturesque architecture, and breathtaking natural surroundings, including... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kuldiga
- Liepaja is one of the largest cities in Latvia located on the western coast of the country, bordering the Baltic Sea. It has a population of around 70,000 inhabitants and is known for its beautiful be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Liepaja
- Ludza is a town located in the eastern part of Latvia, near the border with Russia and Belarus. It has a population of approximately 7000 people and is the largest town in the Ludza district. Ludza is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ludza
- Madona is a town located in the eastern part of Latvia, near the Gauja National Park. It has a population of around 9,000 people and is the administrative center of the Madona Municipality. The town i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Madona
- Ogre is a town in central Latvia, located around 35 kilometers east of the capital city of Riga. It is situated on the banks of the Ogre River, which is a popular spot for fishing and canoeing. The to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ogre
- Olaine is a town located in the central part of Latvia, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Riga, the capital city of Latvia. It has a population of around 11,000 people and is situated in the Ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Olaine
- Preili is a small town in eastern Latvia, situated approximately 175 kilometers southeast of the capital Riga. The town has a population of around 9,000 people and is located near the Gauja River. Pre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Preili
- Priekule is a town located in western Latvia, near the coast of the Baltic Sea. It is part of the Talsi District and has a population of around 1,500 people. Priekule is known for its historical impor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Priekule
- Rezekne is a city located in the eastern region of Latvia. It is the 7th largest city in the country, with a population of around 31,000 people. The city is known for its cultural diversity and histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rezekne
- Riga is the capital city of Latvia, a country located in Northern Europe, on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. With a population of over 600,000 people, Riga is the largest city in the Baltic State... CONTINUE here for a trip to Riga
- Salacgriva is a small town located in the northern part of Latvia, on the east coast of the Gulf of Riga. It has a population of approximately 4,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches and n... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salacgriva
- Salaspils is a small town located in the eastern part of Latvia, approximately 18 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Riga. It has a population of around 17,000 people and is situated along the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salaspils
- Saldus is a town located in the western part of Latvia, approximately 130 kilometers away from Riga, the capital city. It has a population of about 11,000 people and is known for its well-preserved hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saldus
- Sigulda is a small town located in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks. It is situated in the Gauja River Valley and is surrounded ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sigulda
- Smiltene is a small town in northeastern Latvia. It is located in the Vidzeme region and has a population of approximately 5,000 people. The town is situated on the banks of the Abuls River and surrou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Smiltene
- Talsi is a small town located in the western part of Latvia. It has a population of around 9,000 people and is known for its picturesque surroundings, including forests and lakes. Talsi is also known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Talsi
- Tukums is a town in Latvia located in the western part of the country. It has a population of approximately 20,000 people and is situated about 60 kilometers west of the capital city, Riga. The area h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tukums
- Valka is a small town located in northern Latvia on the border with Estonia. It is part of the Valka District and has a population of around 6,000 people. The town has a rich history, dating back to t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valka
- 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 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valmiera
- 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, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ventspils
- Viesite is a small town located in the southern part of Latvia, near the border with Lithuania. It has a population of around 1,500 people and is part of the Aizkraukle municipality. Viesite has a ric... CONTINUE here for a trip to Viesite


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