Latvia

Travel Guide
Old Town showing markets, street scenes and heritage architecture
Admire quirky art nouveau architecture, climb to the top of medieval castles and spot wildlife in a nature park in this enticing Eastern European country.

Plan a trip to the gorgeous country of Latvia, where pristine nature and photogenic vistas await. Stay in the cosmopolitan capital to experience its bustle, or head out to the coasts for walks through castle grounds and stunning landscapes.

Latvia’s capital, Riga, is a charming city that blends old and new, with everything from historic cobblestone streets to experimental contemporary art. One of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, Alberta Iela, was named after the founder of Riga and is lined with attractive art nouveau architecture showcasing intricate designs and patterns. Mingle with locals at Riga Central Market, a busy shopping area housed in World War I hangars. Visit before lunch to gather up fresh food for an al fresco midday picnic.

Find the Turaida Museum Reserve, a grassy area featuring a stunning red-brick castle and several other monuments, in Sigulda, about an hour’s drive northeast of Riga.

In western Latvia, the beautiful Kolka Peninsula offers nature parks populated by local wildlife such as deer, elk, and beavers. Put on your hiking boots to explore Slitere National Park at the end of the peninsula.

Also on the west coast are the port towns of Ventspils and Liepaja. Sunbathe on the beach in Ventspils with the undulating sand dunes behind you or discover the thriving pop-rock music scene in Liepaja.

Journey to the east of Latvia to the Latgale region, often referred to as the “Land of Blue Lakes.” Walk over old castle mounds in Daugavas Loki Nature Park and watch boats sailing across Lake Dridza.

Fly to Riga from airports across Europe. If you’re staying in Riga, a bus trip from Riga Airport to the city center takes about 40 minutes. Travelers looking for an adventure or just trying to save a bit of money may want to consider taking a bus to Latvia from neighboring Russia or Belarus.

Visit Latvia to discover vast nature parks, enchanting architecture and an interesting blend of history and innovation.

Popular cities in Latvia

St. Peter\'s Church which includes landscape views and a city
Riga
Known for Historical, Shopping and Business
Featuring historical architecture and parks, this city is also famed for its festivals and music.

Reasons to visit

  • Riga Central Market
  • House of the Blackheads
  • National Library of Latvia
Castle of Sigulda, Latvia.
Sigulda
Head to sights like Gauja National Park and Ligatnes Nature Trails as you discover Sigulda.

Reasons to visit

  • Gauja National Park
<Petra: ‘Don’t forget to take your beach towel.’
Marcel: ‘Damn! I dropped it… the sun from the Sun Museum… you and your crazy ideas!’ 
[And he was apparently right. There was no need for a beach towel. It was the last day of May, at a pretty high latitude, the wind was cold… but our spirits were high.]>
#waterlust
Jurmala
Known for Beaches, Spas and Recreation
Jurmala awaits: its spas, beaches, parks, and more!
Liepaja
Liepaja
Known for Beaches, Cathedrals and Lakes
Explore Liepaja: its cathedral, lake views, beaches, and more!
Daugavpils
Daugavpils
Known for Bowling, Recreation and Musicals
Trip time! Discover the musicals, ice-skating, and cafes in Daugavpils.
Superb Kebab shop in Rēzekne
Rezekne
Known for Churches, Cathedrals and Rivers
Come to Rezekne and enjoy its ruins, castle, and food.

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