Things To Do
in Rēzekne
Rēzekne, located in eastern Latvia, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The city boasts picturesque scenery with its charming architecture and green spaces. Rēzekne is home to several museums and landmarks that showcase the region's past and diversity.
With a vibrant arts scene and a strong sense of community, Rēzekne offers visitors a unique and welcoming experience.
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Atvaino" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Rēzekne Castle ruins to soak up some history and enjoy beautiful views. Afterward, stroll through the town center to admire the architecture.
Visit the Latgale Culture and History Museum to learn more about the region's rich cultural heritage. Don't forget to explore the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Dine at a local eatery, sampling traditional Latvian dishes. Wrap up your evening by taking a relaxing walk along the Rēzekne River.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Rāzna National Park, enjoying the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife. Bring a picnic to enjoy in nature.
After lunch, continue exploring the park or opt for a canoe trip on Rāzna Lake, where you can relish the tranquil waters. Capture the stunning views for memories.
Return to Rēzekne for a cozy dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Enjoy the sunset views and wind down from your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and events.
- Beautiful natural surroundings including lakes and forests.
- Affordable living costs compared to larger cities in Latvia and Europe.
- Strong sense of community and local pride.
- Growing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Fewer entertainment and leisure options compared to larger cities.
- Occasional issues with public transportation accessibility.
- Harsh winter climate that can be challenging for some residents.
- Limited healthcare facilities and services compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Rēzekne
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic Baltic coast by cycling through Rēzekne.
Visit the historic castle ruins for a glimpse into the region's past.
Enjoy a day at the zoo, observing various animals and learning about local wildlife.
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region through exhibitions and events.
Places to Visit in Rēzekne
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Rēzekne and the surrounding area
Provides a picturesque view of the city and the Rēzekne Fortress
Scenic spot for capturing the city's landscapes and sunsets
Food in Rēzekne
Rēzekne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Latvian dessert made of rye dough filled with sweetened mashed carrots and potatoes, flavored with cinnamon and clove, then topped with whipped cream.
Must-Try!
A staple of Latvian cuisine, this dense, dark bread is made with rye flour and commonly served with butter or cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide variety of local produce, meats, dairy products, and artisanal goods. It's a great place to sample traditional snacks like smoked fish or pickled vegetables.
A vibrant event showcasing a range of street food vendors offering everything from savory potato pancakes to grilled meats and traditional Latvian pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rēzekne, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. When meeting someone for the first time, it is polite to use the honorific titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' followed by their surname.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Latvian culture, including in Rēzekne. It is important to address older individuals using formal language and show deference and politeness in interactions.
When dining in Rēzekne, it is considered respectful to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before beginning the meal. It is also customary to toast before taking the first sip of an alcoholic beverage.
Safety
Tipping in Rēzekne
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rēzekne, Latvia, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A 5-10% tip is generally given for good service.
Cash is widely used in Rēzekne, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments, especially in urban areas. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, Rēzekne experiences gradually warming temperatures and the start of the growing season. This is a great time to witness the awakening of nature and enjoy the blooming flowers.
Summer in Rēzekne brings warm weather, longer days, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can expect outdoor events, festivals, and the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature reserves and lakes.
Autumn marks the transition to cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. It's a picturesque time to visit Rēzekne and participate in harvest festivals while enjoying the colorful landscapes.
Winter in Rēzekne is characterized by cold temperatures and the possibility of snowfall. Visitors can experience a winter wonderland, go ice fishing, and enjoy traditional winter activities.
Rēzekne at Night
Hiking in Rēzekne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area with beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
Known for its stunning hills and lakes, this area offers a variety of hiking routes with scenic views and rich nature.
A tranquil park with walking paths among forests and wetlands, ideal for a peaceful hiking experience.
Experience nature in the Skaistkalne forests, featuring well-marked trails and opportunities to see local flora and fauna.
Located closer to Rēzekne, this forest offers a network of paths perfect for day hikes amidst serene surroundings.
Aiports
How to reach Rēzekne by plane.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 220 km west of Rēzekne.
A major international airport in Lithuania, located about 290 km southwest of Rēzekne.
The main international airport in Lithuania, situated around 370 km southwest of Rēzekne.
The main airport in Estonia, approximately 450 km north of Rēzekne.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Rēzekne, representing a majority in the population.
A significant minority group, often associated with historical ties and cultural influence.
A smaller ethnic group, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the region.
Another minority ethnic group present in Rēzekne, adding to its diverse cultural heritage.
A minority community that also forms part of the demographic composition of the city.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and individuals from different national backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Rēzekne, with local teams and clubs participating in various leagues and community events.
Football enjoys a strong following in Rēzekne, with several amateur clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Ice hockey is popular in Latvia, including Rēzekne, where local teams compete and train in the winter months.
Volleyball is actively played in schools and local clubs, with community tournaments held regularly.
Athletics is practiced by many in Rēzekne, with events and competitions taking place throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rēzekne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Latvian cuisine often features meat, many restaurants in Rēzekne offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially those influenced by European and international culinary trends.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that many restaurants and cafes in Rēzekne are accommodating, with gluten-free breads, pastas, and desserts available upon request.