Things To Do
in Krāslava
Krāslava is a small town located in the Latgale region of Latvia. The town is known for its picturesque surroundings, with the Daugava River flowing through the area. Visitors can explore the historic Krāslava Castle, which dates back to the 18th century.
Krāslava offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in its surrounding natural landscapes.
- "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): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Krāslava Castle. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Daugava River to soak in the stunning views.
Discover the local history at the Krāslava Museum, which showcases the region's rich cultural heritage. Grab lunch at a nearby café that offers traditional Latvian cuisine.
Stroll through the charming town center, stopping by quaint shops and local art galleries. End your day with a relaxing dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Begin your adventure at the picturesque Čaika Park, where you can enjoy a morning walk or bike ride. The serene environment is perfect for birdwatching and appreciating nature.
Pack a picnic and head to the scenic banks of the Daugava River. Spend the afternoon fishing or simply relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.
Return to the town and enjoy a leisurely meal at a local eatery. Savor the flavors of freshly caught fish and Latvian specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including rivers and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks.
- Peaceful and quiet environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Friendly local community and low population density.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Less access to modern amenities and services.
- Fewer entertainment and recreational activities compared to urban areas.
- Harsh winter climate with significant snowfall.
- Limited public transport options for traveling outside the town.
Best Activities in Krāslava
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the beautiful scenery of Krāslava by kayaking down the Daugava River. It's a great way to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
Take a bike tour around Krāslava and discover its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and charming rural areas at your own pace.
Explore the hiking trails in the Krāslava Regional Park, where you can enjoy the lush forests, diverse fauna, and stunning views.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in one of the many lakes around Krāslava, known for its abundance of fish and serene environment.
Visit the area's wetlands and forests for bird watching, as Krāslava is a habitat for various bird species, especially during migration seasons.
Take an outdoor tour around the historic Krāslava Castle and its picturesque grounds, learning about the local history and architecture.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day by the Daugava River. The scenic views make it a perfect spot for a family outing or a romantic escape.
Capture the local wildlife in their natural habitat with a photography session in the surrounding forests and wetlands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Krāslava with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Krāslava
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic Krāslava Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Daugava River, making it a perfect spot for photography and appreciating the architectural beauty.
The promenade along the Daugava River provides picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset, ideal for capturing tranquil river scenes and natural beauty.
The observation tower in Krāslava gives panoramic views of the town and the river, allowing visitors to capture breathtaking landscape photos from a height.
Kansakas Lake offers serene views and vibrant nature, perfect for landscape photography. The reflection of trees in the water is particularly photogenic.
This park is ideal for capturing lush greenery and floral displays. The tranquil paths and natural scenery provide numerous opportunities for beautiful photographs.
Food in Krāslava
Krāslava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with smoked fish, potatoes, onions, and cream, giving it a rich and savory flavor. Best enjoyed at local taverns and guest houses around Krāslava.
Must-Try!
A traditional Latgalian dessert made of rye dough filled with a sweet mixture of carrots, potatoes, and spices, then baked to perfection. You can find the best sklandrausis at various bakeries and cafes in Krāslava.
Krāslava is known for its artisanal goat cheese, crafted by local producers. The cheese boasts a creamy texture and distinct earthy flavor, best enjoyed with freshly baked bread and local honey.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Krāslava better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling Krāslava Food Market to immerse yourself in the local food scene. Discover an array of organic produce, artisanal cheeses, smoked meats, and traditional Latgalian pastries. Don't miss the chance to savor freshly prepared street food like marinated herring, grilled kebabs, and potato pancakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Krāslava, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Labdien' (Good day) or 'Sveiki' (Hello). A firm handshake is a common practice when meeting someone for the first time.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to signal before starting the meal. Additionally, it's a common norm to say 'Labu apetīti' (Enjoy your meal) before you begin eating.
Latvians tend to value their personal space and privacy. It's important to avoid asking overly personal questions until you have built a level of trust and familiarity with someone.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Krāslava with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Krāslava
Ensure a smooth experience
In Krāslava, as in much of Latvia, tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% at restaurants and cafes. In more upscale establishments, tipping a little more is generally welcomed. Tipping for other services, such as taxis or hotel staff, follows similar conventions, with a few euros being a thoughtful gesture.
Payment methods in Krāslava are quite versatile. Most establishments accept cash and credit/debit cards. Cash payments in euros are standard, while card payments are commonly supported by major cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Contactless payment options have also become increasingly popular. It is advisable to check in smaller shops, as they may have different payment limitations.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Krāslava.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Krāslava typically runs from March to May. Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours. This is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks as nature comes to life.
Summer, from June to August, offers the warmest weather with temperatures often reaching the high 20s°C (70s°F). This is peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals, swimming in local lakes, and exploring the beautiful countryside.
Autumn lasts from September to November, characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. It's an excellent time for photography, experiencing local harvest festivals, and enjoying the tranquil scenery as crowds diminish.
Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, making it ideal for winter sports, and cozy indoor activities. Expect Christmas markets and winter festivals adding charm to the season.
Krāslava at Night
Hiking in Krāslava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque nature park featuring stunning river views, diverse flora and fauna, and several hiking trails for all skill levels.
This national park offers a variety of hiking routes through lush forests, around lakes, and across hilly terrain, ideal for nature lovers.
A well-marked trail that showcases the region’s natural beauty, including woodlands and wetlands, perfect for a peaceful hike.
Located near Vārkava, this trail features scenic forest paths and is great for hiking enthusiasts looking for a serene environment.
A looped trail that runs through beautiful landscapes, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the fresh air.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Krāslava through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Krāslava by plane.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 220 km from Krāslava, offering international flights to various destinations.
The main international airport in Lithuania, located around 300 km from Krāslava, serving many international routes.
Another significant airport in Lithuania, located about 270 km from Krāslava, offering various international flights.
A regional airport in Estonia located approximately 280 km from Krāslava, serving limited international flights.
An airport in Russia located roughly 300 km from Krāslava, handling some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Krāslava, consisting of ethnic Latvians.
A significant minority, Russian speakers form an important part of the community.
This group represents a smaller segment of the population, with ties to neighboring Belarus.
A minor demographic group, including individuals of Ukrainian descent.
A small community with roots in Polish history and culture.
Includes various smaller groups and individuals from different ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Krāslava
Discover the essence of Krāslava through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is very popular in Krāslava, with several local teams and community involvement in the sport.
Football has a strong following in Krāslava, with many youth and adult leagues for locals to participate in.
Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in Krāslava, and local clubs often participate in regional leagues.
Volleyball is played both indoors and on the beach, appealing to a wide range of ages in the community.
Athletics, including track and field events, is encouraged in local schools and sports clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Krāslava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Latgalian cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many eateries in Krāslava are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Look for dishes like beetroot and mushroom salad, grilled vegetable platters, and hearty bean stews.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy various gluten-free options at restaurants and cafes in Krāslava. Indulge in potato-based dishes, rice pilaf, and gluten-free pastries made with alternative flours like buckwheat and cornmeal.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Krāslava with these cultural adventures.
