Latvia, often referred to as Latuia by locals, is a hidden gem in Northern Europe that offers an incredible mix of pristine nature, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history. From the enchanting medieval streets of Riga’s Old Town to the endless sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea, Latvia presents travelers with diverse experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures in national parks, cultural immersion in historic towns, or relaxation at seaside resorts, this Baltic beauty has something special waiting for you.
When exploring Latvia’s treasures, staying connected is essential for navigation, translation, and sharing your experiences. No need to worry about expensive roaming charges or hunting for local SIM cards upon arrival.
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Ready to discover the breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and cultural treasures of Latvia? Let’s explore the 40 best places that should be on every traveler’s Latvian itinerary.
Historic Cities and Towns
Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town offers a stunning blend of architectural styles
1. Riga Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the crown jewel of Latvia’s capital city. Riga’s Old Town is a mesmerizing maze of cobblestone streets lined with colorful medieval buildings, Gothic spires, and Art Nouveau masterpieces. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic center showcases Latvia’s rich cultural heritage through its well-preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Climb St. Peter’s Church tower for panoramic views of the city
- Admire the iconic House of the Blackheads with its ornate facade
- Explore the bustling Town Hall Square and the Bremen Town Musicians statue
- Sample traditional Latvian cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants
2. Art Nouveau District (Riga)
Just outside Riga’s Old Town lies one of the world’s richest collections of Art Nouveau architecture. Built between 1898 and 1914, these buildings feature elaborate facades adorned with mythological creatures, female figures, and intricate floral designs. The Alberta Street area is particularly impressive, with buildings designed by renowned architect Mikhail Eisenstein.

Elaborate Art Nouveau facades make Riga a paradise for architecture enthusiasts
- Visit the Riga Art Nouveau Museum to understand this architectural movement
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the symbolism in the building designs
- Photograph the most impressive facades on Alberta, Elizabetes, and Strēlnieku streets
- Stop at Art Nouveau-themed cafés like Rasols for an atmospheric break
3. Cēsis
One of Latvia’s most picturesque medieval towns, Cēsis charms visitors with its romantic castle ruins, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved historic center. Founded in 1206, this town played a crucial role in Latvian history and was once an important center of the Livonian Order. Today, it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Explore the impressive Medieval Castle complex with candle lanterns
- Wander through the charming old town with its historic wooden buildings
- Visit St. John’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Latvia
- Enjoy the peaceful Castle Park with its picturesque ponds and walking paths
4. Kuldīga
Often called the “pearl of Courland,” Kuldīga is a storybook town with red-tiled roofs, wooden houses, and the widest waterfall in Europe. The town’s historic center has remained largely unchanged since the 17th-18th centuries, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. Its picturesque brick bridge and riverside setting add to its undeniable charm.

Ventas Rumba waterfall in Kuldīga is the widest waterfall in Europe
- See the Ventas Rumba waterfall (249m wide but only 2m high)
- Walk across the historic brick bridge for stunning views
- Stroll down Liepājas and Baznīcas streets to admire wooden architecture
- Visit the Kuldīga Museum housed in a building from the 1900 Paris Expo
5. Liepāja
Latvia’s third-largest city offers a fascinating mix of pristine beaches, military history, and vibrant cultural life. Known as “the city where the wind is born,” Liepāja boasts a 15km stretch of white sandy beach, a historic center with wooden architecture, and the intriguing Karosta district – a former Russian naval base with imposing military structures.
- Relax on the Blue Flag certified beach with its fine white sand
- Visit Karosta Prison, now a museum where you can experience life as a prisoner
- Explore the Northern Breakwater for dramatic sea views and street art
- Enjoy Liepāja’s vibrant music scene at local venues
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6. Ventspils
A charming coastal city that combines a rich maritime heritage with family-friendly attractions. Ventspils has transformed from a major port city into a popular tourist destination with immaculately maintained streets, creative public art, and some of Latvia’s best beaches. The city has won multiple European awards for its cleanliness and environmental initiatives.
- Visit the Ventspils Beach with its Blue Flag status and white sand
- Explore the Seaside Open-Air Museum with its narrow-gauge railway
- Discover the collection of cow sculptures scattered throughout the city
- Walk along the Southern Breakwater to the lighthouse
7. Jūrmala
Latvia’s premier beach resort stretches along 32km of golden sand coastline just 25km from Riga. Jūrmala has been a popular holiday destination since the 19th century, known for its distinctive wooden architecture, spa traditions, and vibrant summer atmosphere. The town is actually a string of former fishing villages that have merged into one resort city.

Jūrmala’s wide sandy beaches attract visitors throughout the summer months
- Relax on the wide sandy beach that stretches for kilometers
- Admire the ornate wooden villas from the 19th and early 20th centuries
- Stroll down Jomas Street, the main pedestrian area with shops and restaurants
- Visit Dzintari Forest Park for activities and its observation tower
Magnificent Castles and Palaces
8. Rundāle Palace
Often called the “Versailles of Latvia,” Rundāle Palace is the country’s most magnificent baroque palace. Built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Dukes of Courland, this architectural masterpiece was designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the same architect behind many of St. Petersburg’s grandest buildings. The palace features opulently decorated halls, an impressive art collection, and formal French gardens.

Rundāle Palace features stunning baroque architecture and meticulously maintained gardens
- Tour the lavishly decorated state rooms and private ducal apartments
- Wander through the French-style formal garden with over 2,400 rose varieties
- Visit the restored 18th-century kitchen in the palace basement
- Attend one of the classical music concerts held in the palace during summer
9. Turaida Castle
Rising dramatically above the Gauja River valley, this medieval brick castle creates one of Latvia’s most iconic landscapes. Built in 1214, Turaida Castle served as a residence for the archbishops of Riga and later as an administrative center. Now restored, the castle complex includes a museum, church, folk song garden, and the grave of the legendary Rose of Turaida.
- Climb the main tower for spectacular views of the Gauja valley
- Learn about the tragic love story of the Rose of Turaida
- Explore the Folk Song Garden with sculptures inspired by Latvian folklore
- Visit the restored wooden church, one of the oldest wooden buildings in Latvia
10. Cēsis Castle
One of the most atmospheric medieval ruins in the Baltics, Cēsis Castle was once the residence of the Masters of the Livonian Order. Founded in 1209, the castle played a crucial role in the region’s history for centuries. Today, visitors can explore the partially restored ruins and the adjacent New Castle, which houses a comprehensive museum about the region’s history.

The medieval ruins of Cēsis Castle offer a glimpse into Latvia’s knightly past
- Explore the castle ruins with candle lanterns (provided at the entrance)
- Visit the medieval weapons exhibition and try on replica armor
- Tour the New Castle with its 19th-century interiors
- Enjoy the peaceful castle park with its romantic landscape design
11. Bauska Castle
Uniquely positioned at the confluence of two rivers, Bauska Castle combines a medieval fortress with a Renaissance palace. The older part was built by the Livonian Order in the 15th century, while the newer section was added in the 16th century as a residence for the Dukes of Courland. This dual nature makes it an interesting study in contrasting architectural styles.
- Explore both the medieval fortress and Renaissance palace sections
- Climb the central tower for views of the surrounding countryside
- See the exhibition of historical costumes and interior decorations
- Visit during the summer medieval festival for historical reenactments
12. Cesvaine Palace
A spectacular 19th-century neo-Gothic castle that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Built in 1896 for the German Baltic baron Emil von Wulf, Cesvaine Palace features an eclectic mix of architectural styles with Tudor and Gothic elements. Though partially damaged by fire in 2002, restoration efforts have preserved much of its unique character.
- Admire the asymmetrical facade with its towers and turrets
- See the ingenious 19th-century heating system with furnaces in each room
- Explore the authentic interiors that remain largely unchanged
- Visit the surrounding park with century-old trees
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Natural Wonders
13. Gauja National Park
Latvia’s oldest and largest national park is often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” due to its hilly terrain and picturesque river valleys. Covering 917 square kilometers, Gauja National Park features dramatic sandstone cliffs, dense forests, and the winding Gauja River. The park is also home to several medieval castles, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Gauja National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and numerous hiking trails
- Hike along the numerous trails that follow the Gauja River valley
- Visit the sandstone caves and cliffs like Gūtmaņala, Latvia’s widest and highest cave
- Try the thrilling zipline or bungee jumping experiences in Sigulda
- Kayak or canoe down the scenic Gauja River
14. Kemeri National Park
A diverse ecosystem of wetlands, forests, lakes, and one of the largest moss bogs in Latvia. Established in 1997, Kemeri National Park protects valuable natural habitats and offers visitors a chance to experience Latvia’s pristine nature. The park is particularly famous for its raised bog with a wooden boardwalk that allows visitors to explore this unique ecosystem.
- Walk the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk for stunning bog landscapes
- Visit at sunrise for a mystical atmosphere with morning mist over the bog
- Explore Lake Kaņieris with its bird-watching towers
- Discover the sulphur springs that once supplied the famous Kemeri Spa
15. Cape Kolka
A magical place where two seas meet – the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga create visible currents as their waters collide at this narrow peninsula. Part of the Slītere National Park, Cape Kolka is also culturally significant as the traditional home of the Livs, an ancient Finno-Ugric people. The cape offers dramatic seascapes and a sense of standing at the edge of the world.

At Cape Kolka, you can witness the dramatic meeting of two seas
- Watch the spectacular collision of waters from the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga
- Visit the Kolka lighthouse located on a small artificial island
- Learn about the indigenous Liv culture at the Kolka Liv Center
- Enjoy bird watching during the spring and autumn migrations
16. Blue Lakes of Latgale
The Latgale region in eastern Latvia is known as the “Land of Blue Lakes” due to its 2,000+ lakes with crystal clear waters. The most famous is Lake Rāzna, often called the “Sea of Latgale” due to its size. These lakes are set among rolling hills and forests, creating some of Latvia’s most picturesque landscapes.
- Swim in the clean, clear waters of Lake Rāzna
- Visit the observation tower in Rāzna National Park for panoramic views
- Explore the unique blue clay deposits at some of the smaller lakes
- Try fishing for pike, perch, and other freshwater species
17. Ventas Rumba Waterfall
Europe’s widest waterfall may not be very tall (only 2 meters high), but its impressive 249-meter width creates a spectacular sight. Located in Kuldīga, Ventas Rumba is particularly famous for the “flying fish” phenomenon in spring when fish attempt to jump upstream to spawn. The historic brick bridge nearby adds to the picturesque setting.

Ventas Rumba is particularly beautiful in spring when water levels are high
- Watch for jumping fish during the spring spawning season
- Photograph the waterfall from the historic brick bridge
- Wade into the shallow waters below the falls during summer
- Visit at sunset when the light creates a golden glow on the water
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Cultural Experiences
18. Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
One of Europe’s oldest and largest open-air museums, showcasing rural Latvian life across the centuries. Located on the shores of Lake Jugla near Riga, this 87-hectare museum features 118 historic buildings from all four of Latvia’s provinces. Farmsteads, windmills, churches, and fishing villages have been carefully reconstructed to preserve Latvia’s rural heritage.

The Open-Air Museum preserves traditional Latvian rural architecture and lifestyle
- Explore authentic rural buildings from the 17th-20th centuries
- Watch craftspeople demonstrate traditional skills like pottery and weaving
- Visit during seasonal festivals to experience traditional celebrations
- Try traditional Latvian foods at the on-site tavern
19. Aglona Basilica
Latvia’s most important Catholic pilgrimage site, the white baroque basilica in Aglona attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Built in the late 18th century, the basilica houses a famous icon of the Virgin Mary believed to have miraculous powers. Every August 15th, the Feast of the Assumption brings over 100,000 pilgrims to this small town in eastern Latvia.
- Admire the impressive baroque architecture of the basilica
- See the revered “Miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Aglona”
- Visit the sacred spring where pilgrims collect healing water
- Experience the August 15th celebration if your visit coincides
20. Riga Central Market
One of Europe’s largest markets occupies five massive zeppelin hangars from the 1920s. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Riga Central Market offers an authentic glimpse into local life with over 3,000 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing. Each pavilion specializes in different products: meat, fish, dairy, vegetables, and gastronomy.

Riga Central Market offers an authentic taste of local life and cuisine
- Sample local specialties like smoked fish, dark rye bread, and Latvian cheese
- Photograph the impressive architecture of the converted zeppelin hangars
- Shop for fresh berries and mushrooms in season
- Try pickled garlic, a local favorite
21. Latvian National Opera
A cultural institution with world-class performances in a beautiful neoclassical building. Founded in 1919, the Latvian National Opera has developed a strong reputation for excellent productions at surprisingly affordable prices. The elegant building, constructed in 1863, features ornate interiors and excellent acoustics.
- Attend an opera or ballet performance for a fraction of Western European prices
- Admire the beautiful neoclassical architecture and interior design
- Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and backstage areas
- Enjoy pre-performance drinks in the elegant foyer
22. Līgatne Soviet Bunker
A fascinating Cold War relic hidden 9 meters underground beneath a rehabilitation center. This secret bunker was built in the 1980s to shelter the Soviet Latvian elite in case of nuclear war. Fully equipped with autonomous systems for air, water, and power, the bunker could support 250 people for up to three months.

The Līgatne Bunker offers a glimpse into Latvia’s Soviet past
- Tour the fully preserved bunker with original Soviet equipment
- See the command center, communications room, and living quarters
- Try authentic Soviet-era food in the canteen
- Experience what life would have been like during a nuclear threat
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Coastal Treasures
23. Jūrmala Beach
Latvia’s premier beach destination features 26 kilometers of fine white quartz sand. The shallow waters of the Gulf of Riga warm up nicely in summer, making this an ideal swimming spot. Jūrmala Beach is backed by pine forests and the town’s famous wooden villa architecture, creating a unique resort atmosphere that has attracted visitors for over 200 years.

Jūrmala’s wide sandy beaches are perfect for summer relaxation
- Relax on the Blue Flag certified beach with its fine white sand
- Take a dip in the shallow, child-friendly waters of the Gulf of Riga
- Walk along the beach promenade and admire the historic wooden architecture
- Visit Dzintari Concert Hall for summer performances
24. Liepāja Beach
A wild and beautiful stretch of coastline with white sand dunes and blue Baltic waters. Less developed than Jūrmala, Liepāja Beach offers a more natural seaside experience with impressive dunes and wide-open spaces. The beach is particularly known for its spectacular sunsets and the unique fortress ruins that are slowly being reclaimed by the sea.
- Walk among the ruins of the old Liepāja fortress being washed into the sea
- Watch spectacular sunsets over the Baltic Sea
- Enjoy the less crowded atmosphere compared to other Baltic beaches
- Visit the nearby Northern Breakwater for dramatic seascapes
25. Pāvilosta
A charming fishing village that has become a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Located on Latvia’s western coast, Pāvilosta offers a more authentic coastal experience with its working harbor, fish smokeries, and laid-back atmosphere. The consistent winds and uncrowded beaches make it popular with water sports enthusiasts.

Pāvilosta combines traditional fishing village charm with water sports opportunities
- Try windsurfing or kiteboarding with equipment rentals available locally
- Sample freshly smoked fish from local producers
- Explore the harbor and watch fishermen bring in their catch
- Visit the nearby Akmeņrags lighthouse for coastal views
26. Ventspils Beach
A Blue Flag certified beach known for its pristine white sand and excellent facilities. Ventspils takes great pride in its beach, which is meticulously maintained and offers numerous amenities for visitors. The beach is part of the city’s larger transformation into a family-friendly destination with numerous attractions nearby.
- Relax on the clean, well-maintained beach with lifeguards in summer
- Visit the unique collection of anchor sculptures nearby
- Enjoy the children’s play areas and beach volleyball courts
- Walk along the Southern Breakwater to the lighthouse
27. Slītere National Park Coastline
A pristine stretch of undeveloped Baltic coastline within the Slītere National Park. This area is home to some of Latvia’s most untouched beaches, backed by ancient dune forests that have been protected for centuries. The park’s coastal area is also culturally significant as the traditional homeland of the Livonian people.

The wild coastline of Slītere National Park offers untouched natural beauty
- Hike through the unique coastal forest ecosystem
- Visit traditional Livonian fishing villages like Mazirbe
- Discover rare coastal plants and bird species
- Enjoy the solitude of undeveloped beaches
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Outdoor Adventures
33. Sigulda Adventure Park Tarzāns
Latvia’s largest outdoor adventure park offers thrilling activities for all ages. Located in the scenic Gauja valley near Sigulda, Tarzāns features multiple ziplines, high ropes courses, and even a chair lift that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park makes excellent use of the natural terrain to create exciting challenges.

Sigulda Adventure Park offers thrilling activities with beautiful forest views
- Try the longest zipline in the Baltics (333m)
- Challenge yourself on various high ropes courses of different difficulty levels
- Ride the chair lift for panoramic views of the Gauja valley
- Visit the catapult that launches brave visitors 20 meters into the air
34. Sigulda Bobsleigh Track
One of the few places in the world where tourists can experience the thrill of bobsleigh or skeleton. Built in 1986, this professional track has hosted world championships and trained Olympic athletes. In summer, visitors can ride a wheeled bob with a professional pilot, while winter offers the real ice experience.
- Experience the adrenaline rush of a bobsleigh ride with speeds up to 80 km/h
- Choose between summer bob (on wheels) or winter bob (on ice)
- Learn about Latvia’s strong tradition in winter sports
- Watch professional athletes train during certain periods
35. Gauja River Canoeing
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Latvia, canoeing down the scenic Gauja River offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure. The river winds through Gauja National Park, passing sandstone cliffs, medieval castles, and pristine forests. Various routes are available, from easy half-day trips to multi-day adventures.

Canoeing on the Gauja River offers a peaceful way to experience Latvia’s nature
- Paddle past the impressive sandstone cliffs and caves
- Stop at medieval castles and other attractions along the route
- Camp at designated sites for multi-day adventures
- Spot wildlife including beavers, various birds, and occasionally moose
36. Aerodium Vertical Wind Tunnel
A unique Latvian invention that allows visitors to experience the sensation of skydiving without jumping from a plane. Located near Sigulda, this vertical wind tunnel creates an upward airflow strong enough to support human flight. Professional instructors help first-timers learn to control their body position in the air.
- Experience the thrill of “flying” supported only by air
- Learn basic flying techniques from professional instructors
- Watch skilled flyers perform impressive aerial acrobatics
- Get photos and videos of your flight experience
37. Latvian Sauna Experience
An essential cultural experience that combines wellness, tradition, and social bonding. Traditional Latvian saunas (pirts) involve more than just heat – they incorporate special rituals with plant branches, scrubs, and aromatherapy. Many rural guesthouses and spa centers offer authentic sauna experiences led by a sauna master (pirtnieks).

The traditional Latvian sauna experience combines heat, herbs, and healing
- Experience the full ritual with birch branch massage (pēršana)
- Try honey, salt, or herb scrubs for skin exfoliation
- Cool off with a dip in a nearby lake or river
- Learn about the health benefits and cultural significance of the sauna tradition
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Seasonal Attractions
38. Riga Christmas Market
One of the most charming Christmas markets in Northern Europe transforms Riga’s Dome Square during December. The tradition dates back to 1510 when Riga is said to have displayed the first decorated Christmas tree. Today’s market features wooden stalls selling handicrafts, traditional foods, and hot drinks, all surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations.

Riga’s Christmas Market creates a magical winter atmosphere in the Old Town
- Warm up with karstvīns (Latvian mulled wine) or Black Balsam hot chocolate
- Shop for handmade woolen mittens, amber jewelry, and wooden crafts
- Try traditional holiday treats like piparkūkas (gingerbread) and pīrāgi (bacon buns)
- Enjoy the festive concerts and performances
39. Latvian Song and Dance Festival
A massive cultural celebration held every five years that brings together up to 40,000 performers from across Latvia. This UNESCO-recognized event features choral performances, folk dancing, and traditional costumes in a spectacular display of Latvian cultural identity. The tradition began in 1873 and has played a crucial role in maintaining Latvian national identity through periods of occupation.
- Witness the breathtaking massed choir performances with thousands of singers
- See the colorful folk dance performances at Daugava Stadium
- Admire the parade of participants in traditional regional costumes
- Experience the powerful sense of national unity and cultural pride
40. Midsummer (Jāņi) Celebrations
Latvia’s most important folk festival celebrates the summer solstice with ancient traditions that pre-date Christianity. Held on June 23-24, Jāņi involves bonfires, special foods, flower crowns, singing traditional songs, and staying awake all night to greet the sunrise. The celebration is deeply connected to nature and fertility symbolism.

Midsummer celebrations connect modern Latvians with ancient traditions
- Join locals in making flower and oak leaf wreaths
- Taste Jāņu siers (caraway cheese) and other traditional foods
- Participate in folk singing and dancing around the bonfire
- Search for the mythical “fern flower” that is said to bloom only on this night
Plan Your Perfect Latvian Adventure
Latvia offers an incredible diversity of experiences for every type of traveler. From the medieval charm of Riga’s Old Town to the pristine beaches of the Baltic coast, from magnificent palaces to untouched natural wonders, this Baltic gem deserves a prominent place on your travel bucket list. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxation in beautiful surroundings, Latvia delivers unforgettable experiences in a setting that remains refreshingly authentic and uncrowded.
As you plan your Latvian journey, remember that staying connected will enhance your experience, allowing you to navigate easily between these amazing destinations, translate when needed, and share your discoveries with friends and family back home.
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From the moment you arrive until your reluctant departure, Latvia will captivate you with its beauty, charm, and the genuine warmth of its people. Start planning your visit today and discover why this Baltic treasure is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most beloved destinations.