Things To Do
in Liepāja
Liepāja sits on Latvia’s western coast along the Baltic Sea, anchored by a long, sandy beach and a busy port. The city blends shipyard heritage with a growing arts and music scene, giving visitors a distinct coastal vibe away from Riga. Its wooden architecture, historic Karosta district, and lively promenade invite relaxed strolls, seafood tastings, and daylight exploring.
In Liepāja you can enjoy fresh seafood, coastal nature, and evenings filled with live music and salty sea air.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Liepāja's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the 19th-century buildings. Stop by the iconic Holy Trinity Cathedral, known for its stunning interior and the largest organ in the Baltic states. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café while soaking in the morning atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the Liepāja Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture, exploring exhibitions that cover everything from local art to maritime history. Take a walk along the picturesque Liepāja Promenade, enjoying views of the Baltic Sea and the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Karosta district, where you can see remnants of the former military port.
As dusk approaches, head to the beach to watch the sunset over the sea, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can taste traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas and ham or fresh seafood. Cap off the night with a visit to a cozy bar featuring live music, immersing yourself in the local nightlife.
Begin your day at Liepāja Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Latvia, where soft sands and gentle waves greet you. Rent a sunbed or simply lay back and enjoy the fresh sea breeze while sipping on a refreshing drink. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a surfing lesson to ride the Baltic waves.
Continue your beach day with various water sports, from paddleboarding to kayaking, allowing you to explore the coastline in a fun and active way. Take a break for lunch at a beachside café, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and local specialties. Afterward, stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the warmth of the sun.
As the sun sets, join a beach bonfire organized by locals, where you can relax, socialize, and listen to music as the stars begin to twinkle above. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach, complete with local delicacies and refreshing drinks. This enchanting evening will create unforgettable memories of your time in Liepāja.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch or casual meal | $12-20 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $50-120 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or small purchase | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal city with a relaxed vibe and strong maritime heritage
- Accessible day trips to dunes and nature reserves
- Solid seafood scene and affordable prices
- Rich cultural calendar in summer with concerts and markets
- Smaller tourist infrastructure than Riga; fewer big-name attractions
- Can be windy and chilly outside summer months
- Limited direct international flight connections from Liepāja
- "Labdien" - Hello / Good day
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Cik maksā?" - How much is this?
- "Lūdzu" - Please / You're welcome
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Es nesaprotu" - I don't understand
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Palīdzība!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Liepāja
Visit one of these nice places.
A long sandy shoreline ideal for sunrise and sunset photography with the Baltic Sea.
Historic fortress and canal area offering dramatic lines, textures, and moody light.
Iconic lighthouse with a long pier for expansive sea horizons.
Colorful wooden facades and harbor views along the promenade.
Food in Liepāja
Liepāja Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Latvian dish of grey peas cooked with pork fat or bacon.
Must-Try!
Savory bacon-and-onion pastries that pair well with sour cream.
Dark, dense rye bread that anchors most meals and pairs with fish and soups.
Assorted cold-smoked Baltic fish such as sprats and herring, a coastal staple.
A traditional braided loaf common in Latvian bakeries, sweet or savory versions exist.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large central market with fresh fish, rye bread, berries, and seasonal produce.
Seasonal stalls by the harbor offering smoked fish and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Labdien' (Hello) or 'Labi' depending on time of day; handshake is common in formal encounters.
Latvian is the official language; Russian is understood in parts of the population; try simple Latvian phrases.
Be punctual for meetings; queueing is common; respect quiet hours later in the evening.
Safety
Tipping in Liepāja
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets common; some small places may take cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and often wet; blossoms in parks; best for city walks and museum visits.
Warm days and lively beaches; ideal for swimming, outdoor concerts, and sunset photography.
Cooling temperatures and windy coastal weather; great for quiet strolls and harvest markets.
Cold, occasionally snowy; some attractions close; cozy cafes and winter coastal walks.
Liepāja at Night
Hiking in Liepāja
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dunes with boardwalks and nature trails a short drive from Liepāja.
Coastal trails along the Baltic with sea views and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Liepāja by plane.
Latvia's main international hub; about 200-230 km from Liepāja by road; frequent long-haul and European flights.
Smaller airport near Liepāja offering seasonal and charter flights; road and bus connections to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group with a growing mix of residents from regional Latvia.
A notable minority with long-standing communities in Liepāja, primarily in older neighborhoods.
A significant portion of the urban population, with educational institutions nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Latvia with local leagues and national enthusiasm.
Common in schools and community clubs; recreational courts around town.
Local clubs and amateur leagues; easy to watch in town stadiums.
Coastal winds on the Baltic make windsurfing a favored summer activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Liepāja.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer salads, soups, and vegetarian mains; ask about meat stock in broths and sauces; look for vegetable-based dishes or cafés with plant-forward options.