Things To Do
in Jūrmala
Jūrmala is a popular seaside resort town located along the Gulf of Riga in Latvia, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and pine forests. The town is characterized by its charming wooden architecture, with many historic buildings dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Jūrmala offers a range of recreational activities, including water sports, cycling, and spa treatments, attracting tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Visitors can also explore the vibrant local art scene, with galleries and music festivals adding to the cultural appeal of this coastal gem.
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Atvaino" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the famous Jūrmala beach. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing on the shore.
Visit the Jūrmala City Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, grab lunch at a beachfront café while soaking up the sun.
Relax with a leisurely evening walk on the beach at sunset. End your day with a delicious dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Riga.
Begin with a visit to the Dzintari Forest Park, where you can enjoy nature trails and beautiful scenery. Breathe in the morning air while watching the birds and listening to the rustling leaves.
After exploring the park, head to the nearby beach for some sunbathing and swimming. Grab some local snacks from a beach vendor for a midday treat.
As the sun sets, try out a local spa for a relaxing treatment. After pampering yourself, enjoy a cozy dinner at a charming bistro.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sandy beaches and coastal scenery.
- Rich cultural and historical heritage.
- Well-maintained parks and green spaces.
- Vibrant wellness and spa culture.
- Proximity to Riga, offering easy access to urban amenities.
- Variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as cycling and water sports.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in local economy.
- Higher costs for tourists during peak season.
- Public transport options may be limited outside the main tourist season.
- Can be crowded in summer months, detracting from the experience.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Jūrmala
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Jūrmala's beaches.
Explore the scenic coastal paths and pine forests on a relaxing bike ride.
Take advantage of the Baltic Sea's winds for an exhilarating windsurfing experience.
Discover the beauty of Jūrmala's natural surroundings by going on leisurely nature walks or hikes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jūrmala with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jūrmala
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque natural backdrop and stunning views of the sea.
Lined with charming architecture and provides great opportunities for street photography.
Ideal for capturing the sunset and panoramic views of the Gulf of Riga.
Food in Jūrmala
Jūrmala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of Latvian cuisine, dense and flavorful, often served with smoked fish or cheese. Can be found at local bakeries and markets like Jūrmala Tirdziņš.
Must-Try!
A fresh, light cheese traditionally eaten during the Jāņi (Midsummer) festivities, can be sampled at specialty cheese shops or at events during the celebration.
A hearty dish featuring dried peas and savory bacon, popular in Latvia. Available at traditional Latvian restaurants like Dubulti Restaurant & Terrace.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jūrmala better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of local produce, dairy, bread, and artisanal goods. Visitors can also find street food stalls serving traditional Latvian snacks like piragi (stuffed buns) and shashlik (skewered meat).
Located in the heart of Jūrmala, this market is a great spot to sample freshly made local treats, including smoked fish and pastries, while browsing crafts and gifts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jūrmala, it is important to show respect for the natural environment, including the beaches and pine forests.
Latvians appreciate polite and respectful behavior, such as saying please (lūdzu) and thank you (paldies) in everyday interactions.
Respect local customs and traditions, such as celebrating Midsummer (Jāņi) and other cultural festivals with the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jūrmala with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jūrmala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not a common practice in Jūrmala, Latvia. However, in tourist areas or upscale restaurants, a tip of 5-10% may be appreciated.
In Jūrmala, Latvia, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments, especially in tourist areas. It's always a good idea to check with the specific establishment regarding their accepted payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jūrmala.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Jūrmala, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. The beach is less crowded, and it's a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Jūrmala, with warm weather and bustling beach life. Expect crowded beaches, vibrant events, and a lively atmosphere.
Autumn in Jūrmala is a beautiful time, as the trees change color and the weather begins to cool. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for peaceful strolls along the beach.
Winter brings a unique charm to Jūrmala, with snow-covered landscapes and potential for winter sports. The town is quieter, but there are still cozy cafes and holiday events to enjoy.
Jūrmala at Night
Hiking in Jūrmala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic stretch of sandy beach ideal for hiking along the coast, with beautiful views of the Baltic Sea and nearby pine forests.
Located just a short drive from Jūrmala, this park features a variety of trails through wetlands, forests, and around scenic lakes, offering opportunities for birdwatching and seeing unique flora.
A tranquil forest area in Jūrmala with walking paths, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature in a peaceful atmosphere.
A picturesque trail that follows the Sloca River, offering views of the river and its diverse wildlife, ideal for both hiking and birdwatching.
A scenic trail along the Lielupe River, perfect for leisurely hikes with opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy the river's natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jūrmala through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jūrmala by plane.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 15 km from Jūrmala. It serves as the primary international airport for the country.
Located in Estonia, about 250 km from Jūrmala, Tallinn Airport serves as a significant international airport for the Baltic region.
Situated in Lithuania, approximately 300 km from Jūrmala, this is the largest airport in Lithuania and offers numerous international flights.
Located in Kaunas, Lithuania, about 270 km from Jūrmala, it serves various international destinations and is the second largest airport in the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Jūrmala, comprising approximately 55% of the population.
A significant minority in Jūrmala, making up about 30% of the local population.
A smaller demographic group in Jūrmala, accounting for around 4% of the population.
Includes Ukrainians, Belarusians, and other groups, collectively representing about 11% of the population.
The Soul of Jūrmala
Discover the essence of Jūrmala through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Jūrmala, taking advantage of the sandy beaches and seaside environment.
Includes activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing, attracting both locals and tourists.
A widely followed sport in Latvia, with local teams and clubs participating in regional leagues.
Benefiting from various tennis facilities, it’s a favored sport for recreational play and competitions.
With beautiful coastal paths and parks, cycling is a popular activity for both exercise and leisure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jūrmala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafes in Jūrmala offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as Kūriņš, which provides delicious vegetarian-friendly dishes in addition to its seafood specialties.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dishes at restaurants like Baltā Pērle, which provides a selection of gluten-free pastries and meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jūrmala with these cultural adventures.