Things To Do
in Balvi
Balvi is a small town in Latvia's Latgale region, nestled along the Pededze River and surrounded by forests and lakes. It blends a quiet rural vibe with a touch of Latgalian culture, evident in local markets and family-run eateries. The town serves as a restful base for exploring Latgale's nature, with easy access to cycling routes, nature trails, and nearby villages.
Visitors enjoy a friendly, laid-back atmosphere where time feels a little slower and the landscape is vividly green.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Balvi and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely walk around the town to get acquainted with the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the fresh air. Stop by a local café for breakfast and try traditional Latvian pastries.
Visit the Balvi Museum to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. Explore the nearby parks and green areas that offer beautiful landscapes. Engage with local artisans and perhaps purchase some handmade crafts.
Dine at a cozy restaurant that serves authentic Latvian cuisine, savoring dishes made with local ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town as the sun sets. Cap off the night with a stroll through the quaint streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast before heading out to the scenic Balvi Lake. Participate in a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape as the sun rises over the lake.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake while soaking in the tranquil surroundings. Rent a kayak or rowboat to explore the water and get up close with nature. Take your time to relax and appreciate the beautiful scenery.
Return to town and enjoy a casual dinner at a bistro overlooking the lake. Join a local event or live music performance in town for an alternative evening entertainment option. Afterward, indulge in a delicious dessert at a local patisserie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/hostel per night | $25-50 |
| 🚆Public transit one-way | $1-2 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, walkable town with nature nearby
- Friendly locals and safe environment
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Limited public transportation between towns
- "Labdien" - Hello / Good day
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much is this?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Jā" - Yes
- "Nē" - No
Places to Visit in Balvi
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour along the tranquil Pededze River with reflections and willow trees.
Historic square with colorful wooden houses and the church spire in the background.
Peaceful lakeside scenes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Balvi
Balvi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish of grey peas with smoked bacon, a Latgalian staple often served with rye bread.
Must-Try!
Bacon-filled or mushroom-filled Latvian pastries that are popular in markets and taverns.
Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream or smoked fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering seasonal produce, dairy, bread, and local crafts.
Casual stalls around the square offering warm pastries and local snacks in warm months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet elders politely and maintain privacy in public spaces.
Latvian is the official language; many speak Russian or Latgalian; attempting some basic Latvian phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Balvi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Muddy trails early spring; wildlife becomes active; great for birdwatching and forest walks.
Long days, warm temperatures; ideal for outdoor markets, lake swims, and biking.
Autumn foliage and harvest markets; cooler days for hikes and scenic drives.
Cold, possible snowfall; cozy cafes and winter walks with light snow.
Balvi at Night
Hiking in Balvi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic forest and lakeside loop with moderate elevation.
Riverside path offering birdlife and tranquil views.
Airports
How to reach Balvi by plane.
The main international gateway to Latvia, about 180-240 km from Balvi; reachable by car or bus via the A2/E67 corridor.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnicity; Latvian speakers.
A significant minority; Russian is commonly heard in daily life; some older residents may prefer Russian.
Latgalian-speaking community in the region; influences culture and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular amateur sport in Latvia and often played in local clubs.
Common among youth and adult teams; local matches can be watched in regional towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balvi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes can be adapted; ask for cheese, mushrooms, or potato-based options; look for fresh veggie sides at markets.