Summary of Best Places to Visit in Latvia
Latvia, the central member of the Baltic States, is principally recognized for the lively nightlife of its remarkably Gothic and Art Deco capital, alongside the vibrant coastal areas of Jurmala. However, venturing further into Latvia’s countryside reveals a landscape characterized by Teutonic castles, imperial palaces, and untouched woodlands adorned with quaint villages.
Discover the best destinations to explore in Latvia:
1. Riga
Riga stands at the forefront for any first-time visitors traversing the Baltic. It is undoubtedly one of the region’s premier urban gems, situated along the banks of the Daugava River in the northern part of the country, boasting a captivating Old Town recognized as one of Europe’s most attractive.
Within this historic district, cobbled lanes are graced by the strikingly tall spires of St Peter’s Church, while the notably restored House of the Blackheads displays elegance after the upheavals of Soviet rule.
The city’s outer neighborhoods showcase impressive Art Nouveau architecture, particularly along Alberta iela.
Additionally, Riga’s nightlife is renowned, offering a blend of vibrant bars and energetic clubs frequented by locals and visitors alike.
2. Jurmala
Encompassing nearly 30 kilometers along the picturesque coastline of the Riga Gulf, the sun-drenched and breezy Jurmala is an ideal destination during the warm months.
Noted for its unique microclimate and mineral mud treatments, the various towns forming the ‘Latvian Riviera’ are known for their therapeutic offerings.
Beaches such as Majori and Bulduri, adorned with Blue Flag certifications, provide ample opportunities for watersports and feature collections of seaside cafes and beach volleyball events, appealing to many, including past Soviet leaders.
3. Daugavpils
The birthplace of renowned artist Mark Rothko, Daugavpils stands in contrast to Riga to the north.
Located amidst the hills and lakes of the Daugava River valley, this town reflects the cultural heartland of Latvia’s Russian-speaking populace, showcasing an enriched historical core characterized by elegant 19th-century architecture reminiscent of St Petersburg.
The formidable Daugavpils Fortress, once a key military site of the Russian Empire, complements the skyline highlighted by the golden onion domes of the Saints Boris and Gleb Cathedral.
4. Sigulda
Countless legends surround the enchanting town of Sigulda.
The surrounding hills are capped with the ruins of Turaida Castle, often likened to Romania’s Bran Castle.
The lush woodlands and groves of the Gauja Valley, interspersed with winding rivers and scenic hiking paths, reveal countless gems of nature, including the vast caverns of the Gutmanis system.
Furthermore, Sigulda’s cherry blossoms and ornate architecture from the pre-independence era complement the chance for winter activities such as skiing and Nordic walking.
5. Bauska
Bauska has a storied past, beginning with the Knights of the Livonian Order, who established fortifications on the small islets along the banks of the Lielupe River.
Subsequently, the dukes of Courland and Russian tsars erected a new fortress, which dominates the town with its distinctive white walls and red roofs.
Beyond its rich military heritage, Bauska presents a picturesque rural ambiance, featuring riverbanks lined with local farms, charming suspension bridges, and a vibrant market square.
6. Slitere National Park
Regarded as a natural treasure of the Kurzeme region, Slitere National Park offers both cultural and ecological experiences.
Home to the picturesque Blue Hills, along with untouched coastal landscapes, sandy dunes, and the soft yellow sands of the Baltic Sea, it presents myriad opportunities for exploration.
This park extends into the Baltic Ocean at Cape Kolka and shelters ancient forests composed of firs, elms, and rare Baltic ivy.
The region is also dotted with historic fishing villages, which have retained their rustic charm due to the presence of a now-defunct military base.
7. Cesis
Cesis exemplifies traditional Latvian town planning, having preserved its medieval heritage beautifully.
Its town center is recognized as one of the best-maintained historic districts in Latvia, complete with expansive cobblestone streets, vibrant timber facades, and stuccoed churches such as the elegant St John’s Church.
The highlight of Cesis is undoubtedly Cesis Castle, with its impressive fortifications and gatehouses situated amidst the forests close to the town center.
Here, visitors can unravel 800 years of history characterized by Swedish, Russian, Slavic, and Polish influences.
8. Rundale Palace
Once a gift from Empress Catherine the Great, Rundale Palace remains the most exquisite legacy of imperial dominion from Petersburg still visible in Latvia.
Located close to Bauska, this palace is enveloped by flourishing rose gardens and English-style parks.
The architecture is flamboyant, epitomizing the Italian-inspired opulence characteristic of Bartolomeo Rastrelli’s works.
Presently, thousands visit to explore its grand interiors and intricate gardens, while also partaking in exhibitions hosted by the Palace Museum.
9. Saulkrasti
Located facing the well-trodden beaches of Jurmala across the Riga Gulf, Saulkrasti serves as a lesser-known summer haven.
More tranquil than its vibrant counterpart, it features extensive cycling paths, beautiful sandy beaches at Pabazi, and picturesque cliffside trails through coastal forests.
The notable 18-meter-high White Dune rises at the edge of the River Incupe, providing ideal spots for viewing sunsets and enjoyable picnics under the shade of trees.
10. Araisi
A short distance from Cesis, visitors encounter the historically rich landscape of Araisi.
This open-air museum is the most frequented in Latvia, detailing the lifestyles of early medieval tribes in the Baltic region, who resided in wooden shelters along the lake’s edge.
The site features the remnants of a castle established by the Livonian Order and a plethora of archaeological discoveries that illuminate fashion and farming practices from the 14th century.
Thus, it offers an intriguing insight for those seeking to delve into Latvia’s historical depths.
11. Ligatne
Ligatne attracts hikers, mountain bikers, campers, horse riders, wildlife enthusiasts, and Nordic skiers to its wood-covered landscape.
Serving as the access point to the famed Gauja National Park, visitors explore stunning sandstone gorges, emerald forests, and captivating nature trails leading deep into the wilderness.
The town itself maintains a quaint character, highlighted by remnants of an erstwhile paper-making factory and charming cottages.
12. Ventspils
Ventspils boasts the best-preserved Livonian Order castle in Latvia, standing amid the cobbled streets of the Old Town, characterized by its charming yellow-washed architecture, and is a significant eastern Baltic port.
Known as the floral capital of Latvia, the city transforms into a vibrant spectacle during the spring, with blooming floral displays lining its streets and waterfront promenades.
13. Ogre
Situated along the Daugava River that flows through Latvia’s core, Ogre’s history dates back to the 1200s.
While often overlooked by travelers, it offers insights into authentic Latvian life, with a museum that narrates stories of regional oppression and memorials to victims of the communist regime.
Additionally, Ogre is home to the serene Dendrological Park Lazdukalni, perfect for exploring a diverse array of flora typical of Northern Europe.
14. Kuldiga
Each narrow street and timber-framed house in Kuldiga exudes old-world charm, making it a captivating area in Kurzeme.
Timber houses originating from the 1700s, graceful brick bridges, and the Baroque architecture of St Catherine’s Church reflect the town’s prosperous past during the Courland duchy.
Moreover, the impressive waterfalls of the Venta River, together with the lush scenery surrounding Riezupe’s Sand Cave, enhance the allure of Kuldiga.
15. Liepaja
Diverse in its architectural influences, Liepaja presents a mix of Art Nouveau styles and Russian Orthodox designs alongside vibrant industrial sectors and working-class neighborhoods.
Key attractions include the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, notable for its impressive spire and grand organ, as well as the lively daily markets.
The former city of Karosta, a clandestine settlement for the Soviet military, is another significant site, where remnants of historical forts are now being transformed into creative spaces and cafes.
