Things To Do
in Latvia
Latvia is a Baltic country known for its dense forests, shimmering coastline, and fairy-tale towns. Its capital, Riga, blends stunning Art Nouveau architecture with a lively riverfront and a creative scene. Latvians prize nature, folklore, and hearty seasonal cuisine, making slow travel and outdoor exploring popular.
From pine-scented countryside to UNESCO heritage and peaceful Baltic beaches, Latvia invites you to explore at a gentle, immersive pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Riga International Airport and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Old Town, where you can admire the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Latvian breakfast at a local café.
Visit the iconic House of Blackheads and explore the nearby Riga Cathedral. Spend some time at the Central Market, sampling local delicacies and soaking in the lively market scene. Don't miss the chance to buy some handmade crafts and local produce.
Savor a dinner of fresh seafood at a renowned restaurant in the heart of the city. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the Daugava River, enjoying the view of the city skyline at night. To end your day, check out a local Latvian folk music performance.
Wake up early to explore the cobblestone streets of Riga's Old Town. Visit the mesmerizing St. Peter's Church, where you can climb to the observation tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a quaint café while soaking in the medieval charm.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Art Nouveau district, known for its stunning architectural details and unique buildings. Take a guided tour or explore at your own pace, marveling at the intricate facades. Stop by the Latvian National Museum of Art to appreciate local works.
Dine at a cozy restaurant featuring traditional Latvian cuisine with a modern twist. After dinner, join a guided pub crawl to experience Riga's vibrant nightlife scene and sample various local beers. Finish the night at a rooftop bar for stunning skyline views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night, 2 people) | $80-150 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $4-7 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar (0.5L) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich nature and easy access to forests and coastlines
- Beautiful architecture, especially Art Nouveau in Riga
- Great value for money and welcoming locals
- Excellent markets, seafood, and traditional cuisine
- Long winters with short daylight hours
- Some rural areas have limited English, especially among older residents
- Traffic in Riga can be heavy during peak hours
- "Sveiki" - Hello / Hi
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Kā jūs sauc?" - What is your name? (formal)
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Palīdziet, lūdzu" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Latvia
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic silhouettes and narrow, cobblestone streets provide atmospheric compositions at every hour.
A treasure trove of soaring, ornate facades and architectural details perfect for wide-angle and detail shots.
Iconic column and statues framed by greenery and light, ideal for sunset photography.
Colorful market stalls, brick arches, and candid street scenes with locals and produce.
Expansive Baltic coastlines and atmospheric sunsets with a wooden pier for long-exposure shots.
Food in Latvia
Latvia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional, filling dish of grey peas simmered with fried bacon and onions.
Must-Try!
Flaky, savory pastries stuffed with crisp bacon; best fresh from bakeries.
Dark, dense loaf that accompanies nearly every meal; look for wood-fired loaves.
A classic rye pastry filled with layered fillings, often associated with harvest celebrations.
Herbal Baltic liqueur enjoyed as a digestif or used in cocktails.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vast market housed in converted Zeppelin hangars; great for fresh produce, smoked fish, cheeses, and street snacks.
A weekend market in a sunny courtyard area offering seasonal produce, baked goods, and bite-sized street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common in formal settings; greet with a polite 'Labdien' (Hello) or 'Sveiki'.
Latvians value quiet, orderly behavior in public; avoid loud conversations in public transport.
If visiting someone’s home, a small, thoughtful gift is appreciated; avoid overly expensive presents.
Learning a few phrases in Latvian is valued, though many speak English in tourist areas.
Safety
Tipping in Latvia
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is generally not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% in nicer restaurants is appreciated. In casual cafes, rounding up the bill is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still useful in markets and smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days (often light past 9 pm), comfortable temperatures, and vibrant outdoor festivals. Pack light layers and sun protection; stay hydrated while exploring outdoor markets and riverside paths.
Brisk air, turning leaves, and fewer crowds. Great for photography in woodlands and quiet towns; pack a warm jacket and waterproof layer.
Cold with snow possible, especially in January and February. Expect short days; indoor museums, markets, and cozy cafés are ideal retreats.
Mild, with blooming trees and rivers rising. A good time for outdoor walks, hiking, and early wildlife viewing.
Latvia at Night
Hiking in Latvia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive hiking networks around the Gauja River with viewpoints, forest paths, and castle ruins.
Flat, accessible boardwalks through wetlands with abundant birdlife and unique swamp scenery.
Coastal pine forests and dune landscapes with relatively uncrowded paths.
Airports
How to reach Latvia by plane.
Latvia’s main international gateway, located just outside Riga; frequent flights to Europe and some long-haul connections; easy rail and road access to the city.
Smaller regional airport servicing limited domestic and some international routes; useful for western Latvia access and quick connections to Riga.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, concentrated in urban and rural areas; speaks Latvian.
A sizable minority primarily in urban centers; Russian language usage is common in daily life and media.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion with local leagues and outdoor rink culture during winter.
A popular sport with strong youth programs and professional leagues.
Widely followed and played across towns; local clubs and academies are common.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetable-forward options exist in urban eateries; seek dishes centered on mushrooms, potatoes, beets, cabbage, and seasonal produce. If unsure, ask for vegetarian adaptations or fresh sides like salads and rye bread.
Many dishes can be adapted, but gluten is common in rye bread and many dumplings. Ask for gluten-free preparations and avoid rye-based items when needed.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Latvia.