Things To Do
in Daugavpils
Daugavpils is the second largest city in Latvia, located in the southeastern part of the country. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, including a diverse mix of architectural styles dating back to the 19th century. The city is home to the Daugavpils Fortress, a well-preserved historical site that offers insight into Latvia's military history.
Daugavpils also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with several museums, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year.
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Atvaino" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Daugavpils Fortress. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.
Head to the Mark Rothko Art Centre to admire contemporary art. You can grab lunch at a nearby café showcasing local cuisine.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the City Park, taking in the beautiful scenery. Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional Latvian dishes.
Begin your day with a walk in the nearby Dinaburg Park, enjoying the fresh air and nature. Bring some snacks for a small picnic.
Visit the Daugavpils Regional and Art Museum to explore local history and art. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a picturesque spot in the park.
As the sun sets, head to the Daugava River for a relaxing evening. Consider dining at a riverside restaurant for a perfect end to the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with many museums and historical sites.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and rivers.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Growing tourism and opportunities for local businesses.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Transportation options may be less convenient compared to larger cities.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options.
- Harsh winters that may be challenging for some residents.
- Declining population may impact services and infrastructure.
Best Activities in Daugavpils
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Daugavpils Fortress, a well-preserved 19th-century military complex with museums, art galleries, and scenic green spaces.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in the beautiful natural surroundings of Daugavas Loki Nature Park.
Relax by the beach, go for a swim, or engage in beach volleyball at Daugavpils Beach, a popular summer destination along the Daugava River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Daugavpils with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Daugavpils
Visit one of these nice places.
The well-preserved 19th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the Daugava River and the surrounding area.
A beautiful natural attraction offering picturesque views and opportunities for stunning photographs.
The modern art center offers unique architectural perspectives and cultural photo opportunities.
Food in Daugavpils
Daugavpils Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beet soup that is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, often served with a dollop of sour cream, and can be found at local cafes and bistros like Cafe Boris.
Must-Try!
Savory pastries filled with bacon and onions, these can be tasted at the Daugavpils Central Market or the Lido Recreation Centre.
Breaded pork chops topped with a mushroom sauce, a popular dish at the Zilais Dārzs restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Daugavpils better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, and local street food snacks such as smoked fish, pickled cucumbers, and Latvian pastries.
An annual event featuring a wide array of street food options from local vendors, with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Daugavpils, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
Being on time is highly regarded in Daugavpils. It is important to arrive punctually for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments as a sign of respect.
When meeting someone in Daugavpils, it is customary to offer a handshake, make eye contact, and address the person using their title and surname, unless invited to use their first name.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Daugavpils with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Daugavpils
Ensure a smooth experience
In Daugavpils, Latvia, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A 10-15% tip at restaurants and for taxi rides is common practice.
Cash is widely accepted in Daugavpils, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry cash for smaller transactions and in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Daugavpils.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Daugavpils, with temperatures warming up and nature coming to life. The city's parks and gardens are especially beautiful during this time, and it's a great time for outdoor activities.
Summer is also a popular time to visit Daugavpils, with long days, warm temperatures, and plenty of events and festivals happening around the city. It's a great time to explore the historical sites and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage to Daugavpils, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather starts to cool down, and it's a good time for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the surrounding nature reserves.
Winter in Daugavpils can be cold, but it's a magical time to visit if you enjoy winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and visiting traditional Christmas markets. The city takes on a cozy atmosphere, and you can enjoy the winter wonderland scenery.
Daugavpils at Night
Hiking in Daugavpils
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historical site with surrounding nature trails and green spaces, offering scenic hiking routes along the river and through forests.
A protected area featuring diverse ecosystems and well-marked hiking paths, ideal for exploring Latvia's natural flora and fauna.
Located near Daugavpils, this park offers various walking and hiking trails amidst beautiful landscapes and mature woodlands.
Explore a network of rural paths that meander through picturesque farmland and village landscapes, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
The area around the museum offers several hiking trails that provide insight into the local history and nature of Daugavpils.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Daugavpils through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Daugavpils by plane.
The largest airport in Latvia, located about 220 kilometers from Daugavpils, offering a wide range of international flights.
The main international airport in Lithuania, located approximately 260 kilometers from Daugavpils, serving as a hub for multiple airline carriers.
Another significant airport in Lithuania, about 300 kilometers from Daugavpils, offering various international connections.
Estonia's largest airport, located around 380 kilometers from Daugavpils, connecting to various European destinations.
An airport in Belarus, approximately 200 kilometers from Daugavpils, primarily serving domestic flights with limited international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Daugavpils, representing the majority of the population.
A significant minority group in Daugavpils, with a substantial portion of the population identifying as ethnic Russians.
Another minority group in Daugavpils, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
A small but notable population of Polish descent in Daugavpils.
A minority group in Daugavpils, representing a portion of the city's demographics.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups such as Lithuanians and Jews, among others.
The Soul of Daugavpils
Discover the essence of Daugavpils through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Daugavpils, with various local teams and a strong fan base.
Football is widely played in Daugavpils, with numerous clubs and a dedicated following among residents.
Ice hockey has a significant following in Daugavpils, with local teams and youth programs contributing to its popularity.
Handball is also popular in the region, with several clubs competing at different levels.
Athletics events and competitions are common, encouraging participation among young residents.
Volleyball is played both recreationally and competitively, with local tournaments held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Daugavpils.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Latvian cuisine leans towards meat-heavy dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Daugavpils offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as fresh salads, soups, and vegetable-based stews.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find several eateries in Daugavpils that cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes like grilled fish, rice-based meals, and gluten-free bread options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Daugavpils with these cultural adventures.
