Things To Do
in Latvia
Latvia is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, bordered by Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus, with a coastline along the Baltic Sea. It boasts a diverse landscape that includes wide beaches, dense, sprawling forests, and numerous lakes, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Riga, the capital, is renowned for its wooden buildings, Art Nouveau architecture, and medieval Old Town, reflecting Latvia's rich history and cultural heritage.
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Atvaino" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Town Riga, where you can admire the stunning architecture. Be sure to grab a delicious pastry from a local bakery to energize your exploration.
After lunch at a traditional Latvian restaurant, wander through the Art Nouveau district to appreciate its unique buildings. Consider visiting the Latvian National Museum of Art for a cultural boost.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city skyline. Wrap up your day by strolling along the Daugava River promenade.
Head to Sigulda to explore the beautiful Gauja National Park. Start with a visit to the picturesque Turaida Castle, where stunning views await.
After lunch, try out some outdoor activities, like a zip-line adventure or a leisurely hike along the trails of Gauja National Park. Don't miss the striking sandstone cliffs, perfect for a scenic photo op.
Enjoy dinner at a local eatery serving traditional Latvian dishes. In the evening, relax by the river or visit the nearby bobsleigh track for some excitement.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Stunning natural landscapes, including national parks and the Baltic coastline
- Developing economy with low unemployment rates
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
- Strong education and healthcare systems
- Growing digital infrastructure and tech sector
- Cold and harsh winters
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors
- Small market size and population
- Language barrier for non-Latvian speakers
- High emigration rates among young people seeking opportunities abroad
- Political and social issues related to minority rights
Best Activities in Latvia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque landscapes and hiking trails in Latvia's largest national park.
Enjoy a scenic water adventure along the beautiful Gauja River.
Experience the stunning coastal views and charming seaside towns on a cycling tour.
Discover a wide variety of bird species in this important wetland area.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the picturesque town of Sigulda.
Tours
Uncover the best of Latvia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Latvia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering picturesque views of medieval architecture and the Daugava River.
Featuring stunning landscapes, forests, and the Gauja River valley.
Providing a picturesque backdrop for photography with its historical architecture.
Food in Latvia
Latvia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional Latvian dish consists of boiled grey peas mixed with fried bacon, onions, and sour cream. It is a flavorful and hearty comfort food that can be found in many local restaurants and cafes.
Must-Try!
These small pastries are filled with a mixture of smoked bacon, onions, and sometimes cabbage. They are a popular snack or appetizer in Latvia and can be found in bakeries and food markets.
Rye bread is a staple of Latvian cuisine and is often served with various toppings such as butter, cheese, or smoked fish. It can be found in bakeries and supermarkets throughout Latvia.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Latvia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Riga, this is one of Europe's largest and most vibrant markets, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and local snacks. Visitors can also find street food stalls offering Latvian specialties like smoked fish, sausages, and pastries.
This waterfront food market in Riga features a range of food trucks and stalls offering a diverse selection of international and Latvian street food. It's a great place to sample different flavors and dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Latvia, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. It is polite to address others using their title and last name until given permission to use a first name basis.
Punctuality is highly valued in Latvian culture. Arriving on time for social engagements, business meetings, and appointments is considered respectful and demonstrates a sense of professionalism.
Latvians have a strong connection to nature, and it is important to show respect for the environment. Littering and damaging natural landscapes are considered disrespectful behaviors.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Latvia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Latvia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Latvia, tipping is not obligatory or expected, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service is appreciated.
Cash is widely used in Latvia, especially for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, particularly in urban areas and at larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Latvia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Latvia as the weather starts to warm up, the flowers are in bloom, and the countryside is lush and green. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the national parks.
Summers in Latvia are mild and sunny, making it the perfect time for beach vacations along the Baltic Sea. There are also numerous music festivals, cultural events, and outdoor markets to enjoy.
Autumn in Latvia is beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves, making it a picturesque time to visit. It's also the harvest season, so visitors can enjoy the abundance of local produce and traditional autumn festivals.
Winter in Latvia brings snow and a festive atmosphere, with Christmas markets, traditional winter sports like ice skating and cross-country skiing, and the opportunity to experience the unique traditions of Latvian winter celebrations.
Latvia at Night
Hiking in Latvia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The largest national park in Latvia, known for its stunning river valleys, diverse flora and fauna, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Located along the northwestern coast, this park features a mix of forests, coastal landscapes, and hiking trails that offer scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
Famous for its bog landscapes, Kemeri National Park offers unique trails that wind through wetlands and woodlands while providing opportunities for birdwatching.
A historical and natural site that encompasses the Turaida Castle, with various walking paths that take you through beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks.
Known for its lakes and hilly terrain, Rāzna National Park offers hiking trails with panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and various recreational activities.
This park surrounds the historic Cesu Castle and offers serene walking trails through lush greenery and along the river, ideal for a leisurely hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Latvia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Latvia by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in the Baltic States, located in Riga, Latvia.
The main international airport in Estonia, situated in Tallinn, approximately 250 km from Riga.
The primary international airport serving Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, located about 300 km from Riga.
An international airport located in Kaunas, Lithuania, approximately 260 km from Riga.
An international airport in Gdańsk, Poland, roughly 550 km from Riga.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Poland, Warsaw, about 650 km from Riga.
The main international airport in Finland, located in Vantaa, around 400 km from Riga.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Latvia, making up about 62% of the population.
The second largest ethnic group, constituting around 25% of the population.
An ethnic group that makes up approximately 3% of the population.
Representing about 2% of Latvia's population.
A smaller ethnic group, accounting for about 2% of the population.
A minority group in Latvia, comprising less than 1%.
A small but historically significant community in Latvia, representing less than 1%.
Includes various other ethnic groups, making up the remaining percentage of the population.
The Soul of Latvia
Discover the essence of Latvia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Latvia, with a strong national team and a significant following. The sport has produced many professional players who compete in international leagues.
Basketball is also extremely popular in Latvia, with a rich tradition and a vibrant league. The national team has achieved notable success in European competitions.
Football is widely played in Latvia, with various clubs and a national league. While the national team has not qualified for many major tournaments, the sport remains popular at the grassroots level.
Latvia has a strong presence in bobsleigh, with several world-class athletes and teams. The country has hosted several international bobsleigh events.
Rugby is growing in popularity, with a dedicated community and various leagues. Latvia has participated in several international competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Latvian cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes in urban areas offer vegetarian and vegan options. Popular choices include salads, vegetable stews, and contemporary plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that many restaurants and cafes in Latvia are accommodating, offering gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, as well as international cuisine with gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Latvia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Latvia.