A beginner’s guide to Latvia

Often overlooked by American travelers, Latvia is a small but beautiful country in the Baltics with a vibrant mix of history, nature, and culture. Photogenic cobblestone streets wind through small towns, leading you to medieval castles and picturesque parks away from the tourist crowds. Curious about what this Northern European country has to offer? This Latvia travel guide will give you an in-depth introduction to the country’s highlights. From top attractions in the capital city to helpful travel tips on how to get around, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your trip.

An introduction to Latvia: why it deserves a spot on your travel list

Sandwiched between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia is a beautiful country that packs a lot of punch for its size. While Latvia is known for its stunning architecture, including iconic Art Nouveau masterpieces in its capital city, you’ll also find picture-perfect countryside landscapes if you explore deeper. If you enjoy outdoor activities, Latvia has plenty to offer with its pristine rivers, lush forests, and inviting coastal towns.

For many travelers, the best part of Latvia is that it’s easy to explore in just a few days. It offers access to off-the-beaten-path adventures where you won’t find yourself stuck in long lines or fighting your way through crowded streets. You can immerse yourself in Latvia’s natural beauty, visit historic landmarks, and discover charming small towns throughout the year – all without the hustle and bustle you’ll find at other tourist hotspots.

Explore Riga: a city of architectural gems

Riga is the first stop on most travelers’ Latvia itineraries. Exploring the country’s vibrant capital city offers a long list of attractions, as it’s home to fascinating museums and historic sites. Often referred to as the Paris of the North, Riga has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, with everything from medieval to Modernist buildings and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture scattered around its UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Start your day by strolling the pedestrian-friendly Old Town and cobbled alleys packed with beautiful squares and churches. Next, marvel at red roofs and centuries-old cobbled streets from above at the St. Peter’s Church viewing platform, or spend an afternoon browsing the masterpieces showcased in the Latvian National Museum of Art. You also can step inside the 13th-century Cathedral of Riga to witness its famous wooden organ, dating back to the 1880s. When hunger strikes, you’re spoiled for choice with the city’s vibrant food scene, which varies from fine dining restaurants to local bakeries.

A world of natural beauty in Gauja National Park

Riga might be Latvia’s most popular destination, but this Baltic country is also home to diverse and surreal natural landscapes outside the capital. Gauja National Park is the largest national park in Latvia and a must-visit for nature lovers. Located just an hour’s drive from Riga, it offers everything from hiking and kayaking to historical sites like the medieval Turaida Castle. Fall is one of the best times to visit Gauja National Park, as the leaves turn shades of red and orange to create a stunning backdrop of fiery foliage. There is lots of local wildlife roaming around, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species.

Kuldīga, Sigulda and beyond: the charms of lesser-known towns

Latvia’s smaller towns are just as enticing as the capital city. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Kuldīga is home to picturesque canals and Europe’s widest waterfall, Ventas Rumba. The UNESCO heritage town has an old-world charm with buildings that date back centuries and top attractions such as the Old Town Hall, St. Catherine’s Church, and the Kuldiga District Museum. The town’s laid-back setting makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

Sigulda is another charming town worth adding to your itinerary. Nicknamed Latvia’s Switzerland for its hilly landscapes, it’s an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Set on the border of Gauja National Park, there you’ll find access to thrill-seeking activities such as hiking, cycling, and bobsleighing, while natural landmarks like the Gutmanis Cave and the Gauja River Valley are worth adding to your list. Make sure to ride up the cable car for incredible views across the city landscapes.

Top activities and experiences to explore in Latvia

Now that we’ve highlighted some of Latvia’s most captivating cities and natural landscapes, we can explore some of the country’s most authentic activities and experiences. These unique adventures in Latvia showcase some of the best ways to immerse yourself in the traditions and cultural practices that make this Baltic gem so special. Whether you’re interested in tasting local cuisines, visiting a lively festival, or indulging in unique wellness rituals, here are a few ways to connect with the local culture.

Must-try traditional food and drink in Latvia

Latvian cuisine may not enjoy the same fame as European counterparts like Italy or France, but it holds its own. Foodies will be pleased to discover that dining in Latvia usually means a meal that is full of rich and hearty flavors. You can expect to find menus centered around potatoes, pork, and rye bread. One local favorite you must try is piragi, small crescent-shaped pastries filled with meat. Wash it down with some kvass, a fermented drink made from rye bread, or try a shot of Riga Black Balsam, a traditional (and potent) Latvian herbal liqueur.

Cultural festivals and events worth planning your trip around

Latvians love to celebrate, and one of the best ways to experience the local culture is to attend one of the many local festivals. Held in June, the summer solstice holiday known as Jāņi is one of Latvia’s most beloved celebrations. It involves singing, dancing, and enjoying fun traditions such as jumping over bonfires, crafting hand-made wreaths, and celebrating until sunrise. If you visit during the winter, don’t miss the Riga Christmas Market with its display of dazzling lights and decorated stalls, where you can pick up treats like mulled wine and gingerbread cookies.

The essence of Latvian bathing traditions

Latvia’s bathhouse tradition is a centuries-old wellness ritual that offers a unique way to relax and rejuvenate during your visit. It’s an experience deeply woven into Latvian culture, and it’s all about cleansing both your body and mind. But first, a heads-up: in Latvia, you sauna in the buff! The ritual begins with sipping herbal teas as the wood-fired bathhouse heats up. Once inside, you’ll sweat it out before a sauna master applies salt scrubs and uses wild plant brooms to massage and stimulate your skin. Between sauna sessions, you’ll cool off by plunging into a cold pool or a nearby body of water. Not only is the Latvian bathhouse tradition something to tick off your bucket list, but it’s also said to offer numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and metabolism.

Tips for planning your first trip to Latvia

Now that you have your favorite destinations ready to add to your Latvia itinerary, you’ll want to take note of some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip.

The best time to visit Latvia

The best time to visit Latvia depends on what type of activities you want to enjoy and what type of weather you prefer. Summer (June to August) is the peak time for tourists as it boasts long daylight hours and pleasant weather. If you want to explore Latvia’s beaches and national parks, summer is ideal. However, the fall season (September to November) is an excellent time to visit if you want to marvel at the country’s foliage at its most stunning. While winter experiences shorter daylight hours and chillier temps, it’s a charming time of year with local Christmas markets on full display.

The ideal length of time to visit Latvia can vary. For first-timers, around five to seven days is perfect for exploring Latvia’s highlights. This will give you enough time to explore Riga, take a day trip to Gauja National Park, and visit some of the country’s smaller towns. If you’re short on time, three days in Riga and a day trip outside the city is enough to get a sample of what Latvia offers. With so much to see and do, you’ll soon find yourself planning your next return.

Tips for getting to and around Latvia

Getting to Latvia is relatively straightforward, with Riga International Airport serving as the main entry point for international travelers. Once you’re in Riga, getting around is easy thanks to the city’s efficient public transport system that includes buses, trains, and trams. While Uber isn’t available in Latvia, local taxi services and ridesharing apps like Bolt are popular.

Staying safe and healthy when visiting Latvia

Latvia is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any destination, it’s always good for you to stay vigilant. This is particularly true in crowded areas, where petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in spots like Riga’s Old Town and central train and bus stations. Healthcare in Latvia is of a high standard, and it’s easy to find pharmacies in cities and rural areas.

Make it happen

Has our Latvia travel guide inspired you to plan your first visit? Get in touch with our local experts today – they’re ready and waiting to help you put together the trip of a lifetime!