Ready for your dream Latvia vacation? From the Art Nouveau streets of Riga to the wild beaches of Cape Kolka, the castles of Cēsis to the spa town of Jūrmala, this guide outlines the ultimate Latvia itinerary.
These curated itineraries help you find the best things to do in Latvia—featuring cobblestone old towns, pine-scented national parks, Baltic beaches, medieval ruins, and bohemian markets.
Want to make your Latvia trip even more special? Learn basic Latvian before you go
- Riga: Latvia’s buzzing capital blends medieval Old Town charm with Art Nouveau beauty, riverside vibes, and a cool café/bar scene.
- Jūrmala: A Baltic beach escape just outside Riga—think white sand, pine forests, and spa hotels with serious seaside style.
- Sigulda: Latvia’s adventure capital—home to fairytale castles, forested hiking trails, and a bobsled track for thrill seekers.
- Cēsis: A medieval gem with cobblestone streets, a striking castle, and access to Gauja National Park’s rugged beauty.
- Gauja National Park: Latvia’s largest and oldest national park—perfect for kayaking, hiking, and exploring caves, cliffs, and castle ruins.
- Liepāja: A coastal city with a creative soul—rock music roots, military history, and windswept beaches with moody Baltic charm.
- Kuldīga: A photogenic town known for Europe’s widest waterfall and charming historic streets—like stepping into a Latvian postcard.
- Rundāle Palace: Latvia’s version of Versailles—this stunning Baroque masterpiece is surrounded by manicured gardens and royal elegance.
- Daugavpils: Latvia’s second-largest city offers a mix of Russian influence, impressive fortresses, and a growing arts scene.
- Cape Kolka: A remote, windswept spot where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga—raw nature, solitude, and dramatic coastal beauty.
💡 Latvia Tips
- Cards are widely accepted: Credit and debit cards are used almost everywhere — even in small towns and markets. Contactless payments are common.
- Euros are the official currency: No need to exchange money if you’re traveling from other Eurozone countries.
- Public transport is reliable: Buses, trams, and trolleybuses run frequently in cities like Riga — buy tickets in advance or via mobile apps.
- Tipping is polite but not mandatory: Round up or leave 5–10% at restaurants. It’s appreciated but not expected.
- English is spoken in cities: Most young people speak English, especially in Riga. In rural areas, Russian or Latvian is more common — learning a few local phrases is helpful.
- Tap water is safe to drink: High-quality and available everywhere — bring a refillable bottle.
- Pack for variable weather: Latvia’s climate can shift quickly — bring layers, a raincoat, and sturdy shoes.
- Respect quiet public spaces: Latvians tend to be reserved — keep noise levels low, especially on public transport and in rural areas.
- Nature is central to Latvian life: The countryside is beautiful and easily accessible — explore forests, beaches, and national parks like Gauja.
- Visit markets and local festivals: Central Market in Riga is a great place for local food. Seasonal fairs offer handmade goods and traditional treats.
- Be aware of sauna culture: Saunas (pirts) are a cherished tradition — expect nudity in some settings, and always follow local etiquette.
- Wi-Fi is excellent: Latvia has some of the fastest internet in Europe — most cafes and hotels offer free access.
🇱🇻 Latvia Menu
- Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) (National Dish): Hearty grey peas cooked with fried onions and smoked bacon — a simple, filling, and iconic comfort food.
- Rye Bread (Rupjmaize) (Nationwide): Dense, slightly sweet sourdough bread made from rye flour — eaten with butter, cheese, or smoked fish.
- Sklandrausis (Kurzeme region): A sweet-salty tart made from rye crust filled with mashed carrots and potatoes — a unique Latvian pastry.
- Piragi: Soft baked rolls filled with bacon and onions — eaten as snacks, appetizers, or with soups.
- Cold Beet Soup (Aukstā zupa): A vibrant pink soup made with kefir, beets, cucumbers, boiled eggs, and dill — refreshing and popular in summer.
- Smoked Fish (especially Sprats or Eel) (Coastal regions): Locally smoked and often served with dark bread and butter — rich and flavorful.
- Latvian Potato Pancakes: Crispy fried pancakes made from grated potatoes — served with sour cream or lingonberry jam.
- Cabbage Rolls (Kāpostu tīteņi): Boiled cabbage leaves stuffed with ground meat and rice, baked in tomato sauce — hearty and homey.
- Jāņu Siers (Caraway Cheese) (Summer solstice specialty): Mild cheese made with caraway seeds, traditionally eaten during midsummer (Jāņi) festivities.
- Sour Cream Everything: A key condiment — used with potatoes, soups, pancakes, and meats.
- Wild Mushroom Dishes (Autumn months): Latvians love foraging — look for creamy mushroom sauces or pies in fall.
- Honey and Herbal Teas: Local honey and dried herbs are used to make soothing teas — available in markets and cafes.
- Kvass: A fermented rye bread drink — slightly sweet and fizzy, with low alcohol content. Sold bottled or from street kiosks.
- Latvian Apple Desserts: Apple cakes and strudels are common, especially in autumn — often served with whipped cream or warm milk.
- Balsam (Rīgas Melnais Balzams) (Riga): A dark herbal liqueur made with dozens of ingredients — bitter, strong, and traditionally sipped or mixed into cocktails or tea.
📅 Latvia Calendar
- Latvian Song and Dance Festival (Every 5 years, Riga): Massive folk choir and dance celebration
- Riga Winter Light Festival (February, Riga): Light art installations throughout the capital
- Great Day of the Beavers (March, Nationwide): Eco-volunteering day rooted in Latvian folklore
- Latvia Museum Night (May, Nationwide): Museums stay open late with free entry and special events
- Riga Opera Festival (June, Riga): World-class opera performances in a beautiful 19th-century venue
- Jāņi (Midsummer Festival) (June 23–24, Nationwide): Flower crowns, bonfires, singing, and cheese
- Positivus Festival (July, Salacgrīva): The Baltics’ biggest pop/rock festival by the beach
- Cēsis Art Festival (July–August, Cēsis): Contemporary performances in a medieval setting
- Riga City Festival (August, Riga): Concerts, parades, and fireworks across the capital
- Autumn Equinox Celebration (September, Ķemeri or Sigulda): Folk traditions to welcome the darker half of the year
- Autumn Colors in Gauja (September–October, Sigulda & Cēsis): Fall foliage, hiking, and castle tours
- Staro Rīga Light Festival (November, Riga): Bold light projections and street art installations
- Christmas Markets (Late November–December, Riga & Cēsis): Glowing stalls, gingerbread, and hot blackcurrant drinks