Things To Do
in Jūrmala
Jūrmala is a Baltic Sea resort town just west of Riga, celebrated for its endless sandy beaches and pine forest avenues. Its wooden architecture and spa heritage give the town a timeless charm, while modern cafes and wellness centers provide contemporary comforts. The long beachfront promenades, chestnut-lined streets, and tranquil canals create a relaxed, nature-forward atmosphere.
Accessible by train or car from Riga, Jūrmala offers a refreshing coastal escape year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Riga International Airport and take a scenic train ride to Jūrmala, where you'll catch your first glimpses of the stunning Baltic coastline. Check into your seaside accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Spend the rest of the morning strolling along Jūrmala's iconic wooden boardwalk, taking in the fresh sea air and charming architecture.
After lunch, head to the Jūrmala Beach for sunbathing or a dip in the refreshing sea. Explore the nearby Dzintari Forest Park, where you can walk through lush greenery and perhaps even spot some local wildlife. Finish your afternoon with a visit to the Jūrmala Open Air Museum to learn about the region's history and traditional lifestyle.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the vibrant sunset over the Baltic Sea. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach or join locals in a beach bonfire. End your evening with a visit to one of the local bars for some live music and cocktails.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café before heading out to the beach. Spend your morning relaxing on the soft golden sands, reading a book, or enjoying water sports such as paddleboarding. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic coastline.
After lunch, participate in a guided kayaking tour along the Lielupe River, taking in the stunning flora and fauna of the area. Keep an eye out for local birds as you glide through the serene waters. Later, indulge in an afternoon spa treatment to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Dinner will be at a cozy restaurant with traditional Latvian dishes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. After your meal, visit Jurmala's famous concert hall to enjoy a live performance or cultural event. Wrap up your day by enjoying a moonlit walk along the beach, feeling the gentle waves lap at your toes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $80-150 |
| 🚶Public transport day pass | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and pine forests
- Relaxed, walkable town
- Wide range of wellness and spa options
- Proximity to Riga and good transport links
- Tourist crowds in peak summer
- Variable weather and sea conditions
- Some English not widely spoken in remote spots
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Sveiks" - Hello (masculine)
- "Sveika" - Hello (feminine)
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please / You're welcome
- "Cik maksā?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vai tu runā angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Man patīk Jūrmala" - I like Jurmala
Places to Visit in Jūrmala
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic circular stage building and seaside lawn ideal for sunset shots and architectural photography.
Long boardwalk with wooden houses, pine trees, and wide sandy beach—great for sunrise photography.
A cluster of traditional wooden houses and boutique facades offering charming street photography scenes.
Waterways with boats, pathways, and reflections—perfect for tranquil photos.
Dramatic bog landscapes, marsh grasses, observation towers for expansive landscape photos.
Food in Jūrmala
Jūrmala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grey peas with bacon, a hearty Latvian staple often served with rye bread; look for it in traditional taverns and at local eateries along Jomas Street.
Must-Try!
A rye pastry filled with curd and potatoes, a regional treat you’ll spot in bakeries and markets.
Bacon-filled Latvian pastries; grab warm pīrāgi from bakeries or markets for a quick snack.
Rye bread, a staple at every Latvian meal; pair with butter or smoked fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh seafood, dairy, rye bread, berries, and ready-to-eat street snacks along the promenade.
Seasonal vendors offering grilled fish, pancakes, waffles, and refreshing drinks near the beaches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting new people; in social settings Latvians may stand a bit formally until familiar.
Arrive on time for meals; polite table manners; don’t rush hosts; modest dress for nicer places.
If visiting a sauna, pace yourself with heat and shower routines; bring towels and follow local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Jūrmala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; 5-10% is common in casual places, 10-15% in nicer restaurants if service is not included.
Cash (EUR) is widely accepted; cards and contactless payments are common; mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) often work in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm Baltic days (15-25°C) with long daylight hours; beach days, outdoor cafes, and concerts are in full swing.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; sea breezes, fewer crowds, great photography light.
Cold coastal winds; possible snow; quiet beaches and warm cafes; spa culture remains active.
Blooming pine forests and gentle temperatures; good for outdoor walks and early-season beach visits.
Jūrmala at Night
Hiking in Jūrmala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible boardwalk through a bog system with observation towers and birdlife.
Forested trails near Sloka offering peaceful hikes and local flora.
Airports
How to reach Jūrmala by plane.
Major international gateway located about 25-40 km from Jurmala; accessible by car, bus, or train.
Regional airport in western Latvia; limited international flights; travel from Jurmala by car or bus with longer travel times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Latvians, with significant Russian-speaking communities; many families live in Jurmala and use the beaches seasonally.
Seasonal visitors from Latvia, Lithuania, Russia, and beyond seeking beach, spa, and wellness experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on summer days along the Jurmala beaches.
Wind-sports enthusiasts can rent gear along the coast and nearby lakes.
Bike-friendly roads and promenades offer scenic routes along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jūrmala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for mushroom dishes, cheese plates, and vegetable soups; ask for egg-free and dairy-free variations.