Things To Do
in Tukums
Tukums is a historic town in western Latvia sitting along the Lielupe River. It blends charming wooden houses with brick-era architecture and a laid-back, friendly vibe. The town serves as a gateway to coastal and countryside activities, including nearby nature reserves and weekly markets.
Its compact center is easy to explore on foot, with welcoming cafes and cultural sites ready to be discovered.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tukums and check into your hotel to settle in. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll around the town center to admire the beautiful architecture and local shops. Grab a traditional Latvian breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day.
Visit the Tukums Museum, which showcases the local history and culture of the region. Explore the surrounding park, where you can enjoy nature and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop by a local bakery to sample fresh pastries and interact with friendly locals.
Dine at a cozy restaurant that offers traditional Latvian cuisine, experiencing local flavors like grey peas and bacon. After dinner, take a peaceful walk around the town square, enjoying the illuminated buildings and local art installations. Wind down at a nearby bar with a glass of Latvian craft beer, soaking in the local nightlife.
Start your day with a visit to the St. John the Baptist Church, one of the oldest in the area. Marvel at its stunning architecture and the tranquility of the surrounding gardens. Afterward, grab a coffee and some pastries at a nearby café to recharge.
Explore the Tukums Castle ruins, discovering the rich history of the region as you walk through the remnants of this historic structure. Then, take a guided tour of the nearby Windmill Museum to see traditional Latvian windmills and learn about their significance. Finish your afternoon with a visit to the local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a local eatery known for its fresh fish dishes. After your meal, attend a performance at the Tukums Culture House, where you may watch local artists showcasing their talents. Conclude the night with a stroll along the picturesque riverside, reflecting on your day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $2-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Accommodation per night (mid-range) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with a welcoming atmosphere
- Access to nature and countryside trips
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may be slower in off-peak seasons
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
- "Vai tu runā angliski?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tukums
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming 19th-century brick façade setting, ideal for architectural and street photography, especially during golden hour.
Cobbled lanes and a mix of wooden houses provide atmospheric backdrops for everyday life and portraits.
River views, bridges, and boulevards perfect for sunset shots and relaxed compositions.
Wetlands and wetlands-edge views offering wildlife moments and reflective water scenes at dawn.
Food in Tukums
Tukums Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bacon-filled Latvian pastries—crispy, savory treats often enjoyed warm from the oven.
Must-Try!
Grey peas with smoked bacon, a filling, traditional staple served with rye bread.
A rye pastry cake filled with dried fruit and nuts, a classic sweet bite.
Dense, hearty bread served with creamy butter and a slice of local smoked fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and polite eye contact are typical; greet people when entering shops or restaurants.
Punctuality is valued; plan arrivals for meetings and tours accordingly.
Loud conversations in public spaces are generally avoided; keep voices moderate in public transport and queues.
Safety
Tipping in Tukums
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 5-10% in casual places, 10-15% in nicer restaurants if service is good.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild to warm temperatures; ideal for outdoor dining, markets, and nature walks. Festivals and events are common.
Crimson foliage and harvest markets; cooler days are great for countryside strolls and photography with warm, golden light.
Chance of snow; charming town lights and cozy cafés, though some attractions may have shorter hours.
Milder weather with budding trees and blooming fields; perfect for hiking and early-season outdoor activities.
Tukums at Night
Hiking in Tukums
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland and forest trails ideal for birdwatching and peaceful walks.
Rural trails through fields and woodlands around Tukums.
Pleasant grounds with formal gardens and forested edges suitable for short hikes.
Airports
How to reach Tukums by plane.
Primary international gateway to Latvia; about an hour’s drive from Tukums with trains, buses, and car hire options.
Smaller regional airport serving western Latvia; accessible by road with longer travel times from Tukums.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Tukums.
A notable minority presence in the community.
Smaller communities contributing to the town’s cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular indoor sport in Latvia with local clubs; many towns host amateur leagues.
Widely played and followed; local teams and friendly matches are common.
Flat countryside makes for pleasant cycling routes around Tukums and beyond.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tukums.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Latvian dishes can be made vegetarian by choosing mushroom, potato, or cabbage-based options; look for vegetarian soups and salads, and inform staff of dietary needs.