Things To Do
in Krāslava
Krāslava is a small Latvian town in the Latgale region, tucked along the Daugava River with scenic water views and countryside landscapes. The town blends historic charm with a warm, rural atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home. In Krāslava, you can explore a compact town center, stroll along riverside paths, and discover local Latgalian culture through food and crafts.
It’s a relaxed base for experiencing southeastern Latvia away from the bigger cities, with easy access to nature and nearby villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Krāslava. Afterward, visit the stunning Krāslava Castle, where you can wander through its grounds and learn about its rich history. The morning light adds a magical touch to the castle’s architecture, making it a perfect backdrop for photos.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Daugava River for a scenic boat tour, taking in the lush greenery and picturesque views. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside, basking in the sun and the tranquility of nature. Explore the local boutiques and art galleries, discovering unique handmade crafts that reflect the region's culture.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Latvian restaurant, savoring local delicacies such as rye bread and smoked fish. Afterwards, stroll through the town square, where you can appreciate the vibrant local culture and perhaps catch a live music performance. Wind down your day by watching the stars come out over the river, a perfect end to your first day in Krāslava.
Begin your day with a visit to the Krāslava Teacher's House, where you can immerse yourself in local art and history exhibitions. Attend a morning workshop where you can try your hand at traditional Latvian crafts, guided by expert artisans. Don’t forget to enjoy a comforting cup of coffee provided by the house while you absorb the creativity around you.
After lunch, take a bike ride through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Krāslava, where you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery and serene lakes. Stop for a swim or simply relax by a tranquil spot, enjoying the refreshing atmosphere. Explore the nearby national parks, where you can spot diverse wildlife and take breathtaking photographs.
Return to Krāslava in the evening for a traditional folklore evening, complete with dancing and storytelling by local performers. Indulge in a hearty meal made with ingredients sourced from local farms, bringing the flavors of Latvia right to your table. As you wrap up your night, join in the festivities and meet new friends sharing their stories and culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚎Local transit per ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Latgalian culture and warm, small-town atmosphere
- Beautiful river scenery and easy access to nature
- Affordability and authentic local cuisine
- Relaxed pace perfect for gentle itineraries
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-profile tourist sights
- Medical facilities require travel to larger towns for some services
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and ice
- Public transport may be less frequent than in big cities
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Krāslava
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots along the river with boats, reflections, and distant forested hills.
Rugged stone remnants overlooking the water, ideal for moody landscape photography.
Colorful wooden facades and traditional storefronts provide character-filled street photography.
A quiet bend in the river with natural banks and small footbridges for serene composition.
Early light over manicured paths and willow-lined banks—great for portraits and nature shots.
Food in Krāslava
Krāslava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grey peas with bacon, a staple Latgalian comfort dish often served with bread.
Must-Try!
Potato pancakes, typically crisped on the edges and served with sour cream or pork garnish.
Bacon and onion pastries, popular for breakfast or snacking and widely available in bakeries.
Latgalian honey-berry pastry, representing traditional regional baking.
Smoked river fish, commonly found at markets and fish stalls near the Daugava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering seasonal produce, rye bread, dairy, smoked fish, and berries; great for fresh ingredients and street snacks.
Seasonal outdoor stalls along the riverfront with smoked fish, pastries, and simple grilled bites during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; address people by their first name after an initial introduction and use courteous language.
Keep conversations respectful; in rural Latgale, small talk about family and regional traditions is common and appreciated.
Show respect in churches and religious sites; dress modestly when visiting sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Krāslava
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service is good; many places include service in the bill, so check the receipt.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, and mobile wallets are increasingly used in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures; enjoy outdoor markets, river activities, and outdoor cafes. Be prepared for occasional rain and bring layers for cool evenings.
Vibrant fall foliage along riverbanks and in parks; great for color-rich photography and quiet countryside strolls.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; charming snowy town scenes and ice on the river create atmospheric photos, but wear warm layers and sturdy footwear.
Milder days with budding trees and flowing waters; good for nature walks and market visits as produce reappears.
Krāslava at Night
Hiking in Krāslava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside route with birdlife and varied landscapes just outside the town.
Gentle forest paths offering shade and tranquil scenery, ideal for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Krāslava by plane.
The nearest major international hub, about a few hours’ drive from Krāslava; excellent options for connections worldwide.
Smaller regional airport with occasional domestic or seasonal flights; convenient for closer travel into Latvia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primary ethnic group in Krāslava; Latvian language and cultural traditions are strong here.
A significant minority with historical roots in the region; Russian is commonly understood in many towns.
Latgalian-speaking residents who keep regional customs, crafts, and dialects alive in daily life.
Small numbers of visitors and migrants from nearby regions contribute to a diverse but intimate town atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Latvia with local clubs and youth programs; many gym facilities in regional towns.
Winter activity with local leagues and friendly street hockey in winter months.
Community leagues and school teams play across Latvia; easy weekend matches to watch or join.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Krāslava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can prepare vegetarian options using root vegetables, cheeses, mushrooms, and seasonal greens; ask for mushroom or potato dishes and avoid meat broths.
Some markets and cafes offer gluten-free bread or pastries; clearly communicate dietary needs and opt for simple grilled vegetables, fish, and rye-free sides.
Many Latvian dishes include dairy; request olive oil or dairy-free toppings and sauces, and choose grilled fish or meat with vegetables.