What is Latvia Famous For?

The following guide explores the top ten places to visit in Latvia, revealing what Latvia is famous for, from its historic cities to its untouched places. Every destination showcases a unique charm and provides a taste of the rich culture and natural beauty.

Whether you are diving into Riga tourist attractions, unwinding along the scenic Baltic coast, or exploring the serene mediaeval towns, you will find a host of Latvia tourist attractions that inspire and captivate.

Without further ado, here is a list of our top suggestions for places to visit in Riga and beyond, along with insights on the best times to visit and general weather conditions.

-Riga:

Riga is the living, breathing heart of Latvia and frequently the first stop for travellers who want to visit the most iconic Riga tourist attractions. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire the intricate Art Nouveau architecture for which Latvia is famous for.

Top places to visit in Riga include the House of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church, where travellers can explore the city’s rich cultural past.

-Best Time to Visit Riga, Latvia: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather with fewer tourists, and a chance to enjoy outdoor festivals.

-Weather in Riga, Latvia: Summers in Riga are mild, with temperatures around 20°C, however, winters are cold and snowy, often dipping below freezing.

-Gauja National Park

An unmissable destination for nature lovers, the Gauja National Park is a pristine destination celebrating Latvia’s wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts will not want to miss the opportunity to explore the forests, cliffs and the Gauja River valley, with adventures such as hiking, canoeing, and cycling.

Among Latvia’s tourist attractions, the Gauja National Park promises an unforgettable exploration with charming towns and mediaeval castles like the Turaida Castle, blending history with nature.

-Best Time to Visit Gauja National Park, Latvia: Late spring and summer, which ranges between May and August provide warm conditions that are ideal to enjoy the outdoors.

-Weather in Gauja National Park, Latvia: Summers here are mild with occasional rain. However, tourists will truly enjoy the spectacular Autumn foliage or its magical winters with charming snowy landscapes.

-Jūrmala

Among the places to visit in Latvia, Jūrmala is perhaps the most serene. A long stretch of white sandy beach along the picturesque Baltic Sea, Jūrmala is the perfect destination to relax.

With restorative spas, pine forests and wooden villas, this coastal resort town promises a tranquil escape and is ideal for rejuvenation. Wander through its scenic streets, pop into art galleries, or simply lounge on the sand as the world drifts by.

-Best Time to Visit Jūrmala, Latvia: Plan your visit in summer to enjoy the best beach weather and lively seaside festivals.

-Weather in Jūrmala, Latvia: Summers are mild, ideal for beach days. Winters are quiet and chilly, appealing to those who enjoy brisk seaside walks in solitude.

-Sigulda

Also often called the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Sigulda is unmissable among Latvia’s tourist attractions. Home to mediaeval castles, adventure parks and cable cars offering panoramic vistas, Sigulda charms tourists with its rolling hills and scenic views.

Both thrill-seekers and history buffs will enjoy this diverse city with memorable experiences. Explore the ruins of Sigulda Castle, experience bobsledding on the Olympic track or immerse yourself in the lush forests of the Gauja Valley. The town is also famed for hosting several cultural events and festivals.

-Best Time to Visit Sigulda, Latvia: To experience the beautiful autumn foliage, plan your visit between September to October. To enjoy outdoor sports, the summer months from June to August are perfect.

-Weather in Sigulda, Latvia: Mild summers with average highs around 20°C and snowy winters.

-Liepaja

Among Latvia’s famous places, Liepaja stands out for its unique blend of cultural contributions and architectural variety. With a flourishing music scene, historical districts and beautiful seaside parks, this is a pleasant destination for coastal exploration. Wander the streets of the Karosta district, a former Russian Empire naval base, or discover old churches and market halls that reveal the heritage of Latvia.

Best Time to Visit Liepaja, Latvia: The summer months from June to August bring warm weather and tourists can enjoy cultural events.

-Weather in Liepaja, Latvia: The summertime is perfect for enjoying the beach. Bundle up if visiting in winter as it is chilly.

-Kuldiga

A historical centre with picturesque wooden buildings, Kuldiga is a charming spot and highly underrated among Latvia’s tourist attractions. It accommodates Europe’s widest waterfall Ventas Rumba, a scenic natural wonder that makes Kuldiga truly special.

Take a relaxing stroll along the old brick bridge and admire the town’s well-preserved architecture. For travellers seeking a quiet and unique experience, Kuldiga’s off-beaten path is an excellent choice.

-Best Time to Visit Kuldiga, Latvia: Late spring and summer are the best seasons to enjoy pleasant weather and the chance to see the waterfall in its full glory.

-Best Time to Visit Kuldiga, Latvia: Late spring and summer are the best seasons to enjoy pleasWeather in Kuldiga, Latvia: Summers here are mild making it a good time for exploration, however, snowy winters add a fairy-tale charm to this historic town.

-Cesis

As the oldest town in Latvia, Cesis is famed for its medieval castle and its complex and well-preserved Old Town. Offering a peek into the country’s past, this town is a wonderful experience for history enthusiasts.

With cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings, tourists can enjoy an unparalleled living museum-like experience. Enjoy local beers at craft breweries, visit art galleries and attend cultural festivals that highlight the arts and folklore that Latvia is famous for.

-Best Time to Visit Kuldiga, Latvia: Late spring and summer invite mild weather, and travellers can also enjoy outdoor concerts.

-Best Time to Visit Kuldiga, Latvia: Warm summers with occasional rain and crisp, snowy winters that create a scenic winter wonderland.

-Kemeri

Known for its expansive wetlands, unique mineral springs and the lush Kemeri National Park, this is the perfect destination for nature and outdoor lovers. Kemeri promises visitors a host of unique activities to choose from.

Whether it is spotting rare birds and plants or unwinding with Kemeri’s spa traditions that date back centuries, this destination offers a peaceful experience like no other.

-Best Time to Visit Kemeri, Latvia: To enjoy nature walks and birdwatching, plan your visit during the summer months from June to August.

-Weather in Kemeri, Latvia: Summers are mild with comfortable temperatures whereas winters are cold and quieter.

-Latgale

Situated in eastern Latvia, Latgale is famous for its lakes and boasts a strong cultural identity. Among the famous places in Latvia, this region provides a different perspective with its rural charm, ancient traditions and welcoming communities.

Explore small towns such as Rēzekne or Daugavpils, visit old churches, admire local artisan workshops and pop into the museums dedicated to the region’s heritage. Its calm lake shores and rolling countryside promise a serene experience.

-Best Time to Visit Latgale, Latvia: To enjoy outdoor exploration comfortably, visit Latgale in summer or early autumn.

-Weather in Latgale, Latvia: Summers are mild and pleasant but winters can get frosty. Lakeside retreats are especially enjoyable when the weather is warm.

-Ventspils

Ventspils has something in store for every traveller. From public art installations and family-friendly attractions to the famous Blue Flag beach, lively port and modern promenade, this destination is a favourite among Latvia’s tourist attractions.

Travellers can enjoy evening strolls through the Old Town, learn about maritime history and admire the floral displays that decorate city parks. For families, Ventspils also offers the perfect seaside escapade.

-Best Time to Visit Ventspils, Latvia: Ideally, plan your visit in summer to enjoy long days, beach activities and festivals for all ages.

-Weather in Ventspils, Latvia: Pleasantly mild summers and cooler, windy winters. A summer visit ensures comfortable outdoor fun.

With a world of unique experiences for travellers, Latvia promises an engaging experience blending rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. To help you plan a memorable vacation, here is a list of some unmissable experiences to be had in Latvia:**

-Canoeing in Gauja National Park: Surrounded by lush forests and sandstone cliffs, the peaceful river waters perfectly complement the bustling Riga tourist attractions. Travellers looking to reconnect with nature should not forget to experience this tranquil activity.

-Old Town Nightlife in Riga: Once you are done exploring places to visit in Riga during the day, experience the city’s lively nightlife in bars and clubs, sipping craft beer and dancing in centuries-old cobbled lanes.

-Admiring Kuldiga’s Waterfall: Ventas Rumba is Kuldiga’s scenic treasure. As Europe’s widest waterfalls, Kuldiga allows you to experience the thrilling beauty of nature. Slow down, savor local pastries and appreciate a simpler pace of life.

-Visiting Jūrmala’s Beaches: Only a short trip from Riga, the white sand beaches of Jūrmala along with its breathtaking pine forests promise tranquility and peaceful self-exploration amid serene sea breezes.

-Exploring Cesis: This quaint medieval town, with its cobblestone lanes and centuries-old castle, is a peaceful contrast to Riga, offering travellers a genuine taste of Latvian history and culture.

Latvian food is a hearty and flavourful combination of organic vegetables and breathtakingly fresh seafood. For a truly Latvian experience, don’t miss out on these dishes:**

-Pīrādziņi: If you are looking for a delicious snack, try Pīrādziņi. These small pastries are filled with smoky bacon and onions and can be enjoyed any time of day.

-Kartupeļu Pankūkas: These delicious crispy potato pancakes quickly become an indulgence. They are typically served with sour cream or lingonberry jam, offering a savory bite.

-Aukstā Zupa: This cold beetroot soup with cucumber, dill and kefir, is a famous Latvian refreshment for those warm days.

-Maizes Zupa: Often served as a comforting dessert that is subtly flavoured, this is a sweet bread soup made with dried fruits, honey, and spices.

-Rupjmaizes Kārtojums: An indulgent dessert, the Rupjmaizes Kārt is a layered treat blending rye breadcrumbs, whipped cream and tangy cranberry jam that promises a rainbow of flavours.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Latvia:

• Public transport is a great way to efficiently explore towns of Latvia while also being an affordable option.

• If your trip is planned in peak travelling season, book accommodations in advance. There are several accommodation options in addition to hotels that travellers can explore.

• Ensure you carry a first-aid kit and all your essential medical supplies and consider recommended vaccinations for peace of mind.

• Prevent getting into political and sensitive discussions. Respect local history and prevent littering as it is not only considered bad manners but could also invite a fine.

• Learn a few Latvian phrases for easier communication outside of major Latvian cities.

Travelling to Latvia is undeniably an enjoyable experience. However, for a truly relaxed vacation, comprehensive travel insurance is important. Although no one likes to think about it, unexpected emergencies such as medical crises, lost luggage or sudden cancellations can put a damper on your vacation.

This is particularly true when considering travel insurance for senior citizens, who may need specialised coverage To prevent these from getting in the way of fun, reliable travelling insurance becomes crucial.

Acknowledging travelling needs, TATA AIG made it easy to buy travel insurance online, which makes it easy for you to compare, customise, and find the most suitable policy. At TATA AIG, we offer a host of policies that are tailored to your needs so you can enjoy a memorable experience in Latvia.

Here are some commonly asked questions travellers have when visiting Latvia:

What is the currency of Latvia?

Latvia uses the Euro (EUR). Travellers can easily access ATMs in major towns and credit cards are commonly accepted.

What are some must-see Latvian festivals?

Latvia hosts several vibrant events throughout the year, including folk festivals in summer and charming Christmas markets in December.

Do locals speak English?

Although many young Latvians speak English well, especially in cities, travelers are advised to learn a few simple Latvian phrases for a smooth and enjoyable experience in the country.