Things To Do
in Cēsis
Cēsis is a medieval town in northern Latvia, nestled in the Gauja River valley. Its cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, and well-preserved town walls hint at a storied past. The centerpiece is the Cēsis Castle complex with a Bishop's Castle ruin perched above the town.
Today, Cēsis blends fairy-tale charm with a vibrant cultural scene and quick access to Gauja National Park.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Cēsis' historic center. Visit the stunning Cēsis Castle, where you can explore its medieval architecture and learn about the rich history of the region. Don’t forget to stop by the local bakery for a delicious pastry and coffee to fuel your adventure.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Cēsis History and Art Museum, which showcases the town's artistic heritage and historical artifacts. Spend some time exploring the nearby Rūsiņš Park, where you can relax among its scenic pathways and beautiful gardens. As the afternoon winds down, take a moment to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town square, where local vendors often display their crafts.
As evening falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Latvian cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. If you're in the mood for entertainment, check if there are any performances at the Cēsis Culture Center or enjoy a quiet evening walk along the riverbank. Conclude your day by sipping a glass of Latvian craft beer at a cozy pub, soaking in the warm ambiance.
Start your morning with a visit to the majestic Cēsis Castle, where you can delve into its fascinating history through guided tours and exhibitions. Take your time to climb the castle tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, capturing stunning photographs of the picturesque scenery. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk through the adjacent castle park, where the lush greenery and ancient trees create a serene atmosphere.
For lunch, head to a nearby café and savor some traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with speck. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Cēsis Sculpture Park, where you can admire contemporary art installations nestled within nature. Spend time meandering through the park, enjoying both the art and the tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, return to the historic center to explore more local shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs. Treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that offers a view of the castle illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Finish your evening with a stroll through the town, allowing the charming lights and sounds of Cēsis to envelop you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-12 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval heritage and a fairy-tale town center
- Quick access to Gauja National Park and forest trails
- Relaxed, walkable Old Town with cozy cafés and local eateries
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Riga or other cities
- Limited high-end dining options and large shopping districts
- Weather can be variable; pack for all seasons
- "Sveiks / Sveika" - Hello (masc / fem)
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please / Here you go
- "Cik maksā?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Es runāju angliski" - I speak English
- "Vai tu runā angliski?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cēsis
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over the Gauja River valley and the castle ruins, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Medieval brick facades, arches, and the bustling square offer compelling architectural shots.
Wide riverbank with willows and reflective water, ideal for long-exposure and nature photography.
Food in Cēsis
Cēsis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional rye pastry filled with carrot and potato; best tasted at local bakeries or farm shops.
Must-Try!
Bacon-filled pastries that appear on most café menus and bakeries across the town.
Gray peas with fried bacon and onions; a classic hearty Latvian staple.
Potato salad with pickles, sausages, and mayonnaise; popular at cafés and picnics.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, dairy, breads, honey and berries from nearby farms; a great place to sample local flavors on Saturdays.
Casual bites and snacks including potato pancakes, smoked fish, and local pastries near the Castle complex.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a handshake and maintain polite eye contact; use basic Latvian greetings when possible (e.g., 'Sveiki').
Latvian is the official language; many locals speak Russian or English, especially in tourist areas.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; follow local customs described above.
Be mindful of quiet hours in residential areas, particularly late evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Cēsis
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving about 5–10% in sit-down restaurants is common.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful. Most places support contactless payments and euros are the official currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; rain is common. Layered clothing is advised and markets begin to hum with local produce.
Long days and frequent outdoor events; expect pleasant warmth and wildlife buzzing around. Mosquitoes can be present near the water.
Golden foliage and cooler air; great for scenic hikes and comfort-food meals in the evenings.
Cold with possible snow; Christmas markets in the Old Town add charm. Short daylight hours—plan outdoor time accordingly.
Cēsis at Night
Hiking in Cēsis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of forest and river trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes, with viewpoints over the Gauja River and surrounding hills.
A short, scenic loop around the castle grounds offering shaded paths and historic landmarks.
Rugged woodlands and rolling ridges just outside the town, suitable for longer day hikes and wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Cēsis by plane.
Latvia’s largest airport, about 100–120 km from Cēsis; reachable by train, bus, or car with a travel time around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with strong regional traditions and language; many are bilingual in Latvian and Russian.
A historical minority present in the region; many speak Latvian and Russian, with some also speaking English.
Visitors from Latvia and abroad, especially during summer and festival periods, contributing to a lively cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular school and club sport across Latvia, with local community teams and youth leagues.
Widely followed; local matches and regional leagues are common in nearby towns and villages.
Favored in wintertime, with access to groomed trails and forest routes in the Vidzeme region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cēsis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can accommodate vegetarian diets by offering seasonal vegetable plates and dairy-based dishes; look for salads, soups, and mushroom dishes.
While rye bread is common, many cafes offer gluten-free options; ask for salads, soups, and grilled options without bread or flour.
Dairy is common in Latvian dishes; request substitutions (non-dairy milk/butter) where needed.