Things To Do
in Jelgava
Jelgava is a historical city located in the Zemgale region of Latvia. It is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, such as the Jelgava Palace, which is a major landmark in the city. Jelgava is situated on the banks of the Lielupe River, providing picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and festivals that celebrate its rich history and traditions.
- "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 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jelgava Palace, a stunning baroque structure. Enjoy a stroll in the surrounding park and take in the beautiful scenery.
Have lunch at a local café offering traditional Latvian dishes. Afterward, visit the nearby St. Anna's Church, known for its unique architecture.
Relax by the Lielupe River promenade and watch the sunset. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood options.
Visit the Jelgava History and Art Museum housed in the former palace. Learn about the city's rich heritage and view local artworks.
Explore the nearby Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment. Engage with an interactive exhibit about sustainable agriculture.
Attend a cultural event or performance at the Jelgava Cultural Center. Sample local delicacies at a nearby bistro to wrap up the night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with numerous historical buildings and sites.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger European cities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Good access to public transportation and connectivity to larger cities, such as Riga.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for specialized professions.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger urban centers.
- Harsh winters, which can be challenging for some residents.
- Limited healthcare facilities and resources compared to bigger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Latvian speakers in some areas.
Best Activities in Jelgava
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the historic Jelgava Palace and its surrounding gardens for a day of sightseeing and exploration.
Explore the beautiful Petersala Park, a great spot for outdoor activities like walking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Engage in outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, or simply strolling alongside the picturesque Lielupe River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jelgava with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jelgava
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic palace with beautiful grounds and gardens offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding area, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the cityscape from above.
Food in Jelgava
Jelgava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Latvian dessert made of rye dough and filled with sweetened mashed carrots and potatoes, often flavored with cinnamon and clove. Best found at local bakeries and traditional restaurants like Mierā.
Must-Try!
A popular Latvian cheese, traditionally consumed during the midsummer festival. Look for it at Jelgava Central Market and local cheese shops like Sieroteka.
Delicious bacon pies, a savory pastry filled with smoked bacon and onions. Can be found at local bakeries and cafes such as Kafejnīca Mūzikas Istaba.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jelgava better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant marketplace offering a variety of fresh local produce, dairy products, traditional Latvian snacks, and street food stalls serving grilled meats, sausages, and pickled vegetables.
During festivals and special events, Uzvaras Park turns into a hub of street food vendors offering a range of traditional and international dishes, including grilled kebabs, crepes, and local craft beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake, but maintain a polite distance when conversing to respect personal space.
Punctuality is highly valued in Latvian culture, so make an effort to be on time for appointments and social gatherings.
Latvians have a strong connection to nature, so it's important to show respect for the environment when visiting natural sites or engaging in outdoor activities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jelgava with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jelgava
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jelgava, Latvia, tipping is not obligatory but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a gratuity of 5-10% at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.
Payment in Jelgava, Latvia is predominantly done in cash, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jelgava.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather, blooming nature, and outdoor activities.
Ideal for enjoying long daylight hours, warm weather, festivals, and outdoor events.
Great for colorful foliage, harvest festivals, and cooler temperatures.
Recommended for experiencing the magical snow-covered landscapes and winter activities like ice skating and Christmas markets.
Jelgava at Night
Hiking in Jelgava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic nature park located approximately 30 km from Jelgava, featuring various hiking trails through forests and along lakes.
Though primarily known for its beach, Jūrmala offers walking trails through picturesque natural areas, around 40 km from Jelgava.
Located near the river Mūsa, this park provides beautiful trails for hiking and nature observation, just about 25 km from Jelgava.
A protected area featuring a mix of wetlands, forests, and meadows, approximately 50 km from Jelgava, ideal for more adventurous hikes.
Not specifically a hiking spot, but this lovely park in Kuldīga offers pleasant walking paths and is around 70 km from Jelgava.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jelgava through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jelgava by plane.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 42 km from Jelgava, serving as a primary hub for international flights.
Located about 134 km from Jelgava, this airport in Lithuania serves numerous international and regional flights.
The main international airport in Lithuania, located approximately 172 km from Jelgava, providing a wide range of international connections.
Estonia's main international airport, situated about 282 km from Jelgava, offering various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Latvia, including Jelgava, with a rich cultural heritage.
The largest minority group in Latvia, with a significant presence in Jelgava, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
A smaller ethnic group in Jelgava, often involved in various social and cultural activities.
A growing demographic in Jelgava, particularly in recent years due to migration.
A minority group in Jelgava, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region.
A historical community in Jelgava, with roots dating back several centuries.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and immigrants from different backgrounds.
The Soul of Jelgava
Discover the essence of Jelgava through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Jelgava, with numerous local teams and a strong youth program.
Football has a significant following in Jelgava, with local clubs competing in national leagues.
Ice hockey is a popular sport in Jelgava, with local teams participating in various leagues.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Jelgava, especially among schools and youth organizations.
Volleyball is also widely played in Jelgava, both recreationally and competitively.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jelgava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Jelgava offer vegetarian and vegan choices, particularly those focusing on traditional and healthy cuisine. Look for symbols or ask the staff for recommendations.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it's advisable for visitors with gluten intolerances to communicate their dietary needs with restaurants in advance. Some establishments are well-equipped to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jelgava with these cultural adventures.
