Things To Do
in Ludza
Ludza is a historic market town in eastern Latvia, nestled in Latgale among forests and lakes. It preserves a distinctive Latgalian character with wooden architecture, churches, and a welcoming sense of local culture. The town serves as a quiet gateway to Latgale’s nature, crafts, and traditional cuisine.
Visitors will find affordable, unhurried experiences and easy access to nearby outdoor trails and lakes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ludza Castle ruins, where you can explore the remnants of this medieval structure while soaking in the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a charming local café, sampling traditional Latvian pastries. Take a stroll around the nearby Ludza Lake, keeping an eye out for the area's diverse bird life.
After lunch, visit the Ludza Regional Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Following that, take time to wander the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful wooden architecture that characterizes the town. End your afternoon with a visit to a local artisan shop to find unique handcrafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, experience local cuisine at a popular restaurant; whether it's a hearty potato dish or a comforting soup, savor the flavors of Latvia. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks of the river, taking in the tranquil atmosphere. As you wind down the day, perhaps catch a traditional folk music performance at a local venue.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Ludza Nature Park, where lush greenery and serene lakes await. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views from one of the park's several lookout points.
Post-hike, have lunch at a local bistro that offers farm-to-table dishes using regional ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the nature trails, perhaps trying your hand at birdwatching or simply soaking in the peaceful environment. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a canoe to paddle on the tranquil waters.
As evening falls, return to Ludza and unwind at a cozy pub with a cold drink in hand. Engage with locals and share stories of your day’s adventures. As night descends, relax in a scenic park, taking in the starlit sky and the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staple (bread, milk) | $1-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $4-12 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, walkable town with rich Latgalian culture
- Access to lakes, forests, and nature
- Limited mainstream nightlife or large-scale attractions
- Limited tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much is this?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Ludza
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic wooden houses and the church spire create a classic Latgalian town silhouette, especially dramatic at dawn or dusk.
Morning light on a tranquil lake offers soft reflections and mist over the water—perfect for tranquil landscape shots.
Gothic-influenced church towers with the market square provide a sense of place and scale for street photography.
Food in Ludza
Ludza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Latgalian carrot and potato pastry with rye crust; try it at local bakeries or pastry shops.
Must-Try!
Crisp potato pancakes served with tangy sour cream and fresh herbs—popular in countryside eateries.
Cold-smoked or hot-smoked fish such as pike or perch, commonly available from lakeside vendors and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market stalls offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and occasionally street snacks crafted by local artisans.
Occasional pop-up stalls near lakefronts with grilled fish, pastries, and coffee during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone; address people politely using titles where appropriate.
Modest dress for religious sites; quiet conversation in public spaces; respect for elders and local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Ludza
Ensure a smooth experience
In Latvia, tipping is common but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving around 5-10% for good service is typical.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted in Ludza; smaller markets may prefer cash. Mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Fields turn green, birdsong returns, and shoulder-season prices are lower. Expect variable weather and occasional rain.
Long days, warm temperatures, and outdoor events. Outdoor markets and lake activities are in full swing.
Colorful forests and harvest cuisine; cooler days and crisp air. Great for walks and photography with autumn light.
Cold, often with snow. Quiet town feel, cozy cafes, and winter sports around nearby areas.
Ludza at Night
Hiking in Ludza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop around a nearby lake with interpretive signs and birdwatching opportunities.
A forested route suitable for a half-day hike, ideal for autumn colors.
Airports
How to reach Ludza by plane.
Latvia’s main international hub, about a 230-260 km drive from Ludza; connecting flights and long-haul options.
Russian airport within a few hours’ drive, offering limited international connections; useful for cross-border travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Inhabitants who preserve Latgalian language and customs; a strong sense of regional identity.
National majority with a mix of Russian and other minority residents.
Small numbers of tourists and seasonal workers from nearby regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in Latvia; local courts and clubs are common even in smaller towns.
Amateur and youth leagues are widespread; local teams often host matches.
Winter pastime in many towns with indoor rinks and outdoor skating.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ludza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ludza’s rural menus emphasize potatoes, grains, vegetables, and dairy. Ask for plant-based options like mushroom dishes, rye bread with toppings, salads, and dairy-free sides; many places can adapt recipes.