About two decades ago, Latvia wasn’t a popular destination for international travelers. Although the situation has improved considerably in recent years, the country still remains a hidden gem in Europe for many. Latvia, one of the 15 post-Soviet countries, has much to offer its visitors. If you’re wondering what to do in Latvia, you’ll be delighted to find a variety of activities and attractions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best things to do in Latvia that will provide you with plenty of inspiration.
Latvia is a compact country, allowing you to explore a lot even in a week. However, spending two weeks here isn’t an issue either, given the abundance of interesting, unique, and fun activities available. For many travelers, Latvia is merely one leg of a Baltic trip, with Riga, its capital, being the primary stop. But I encourage you to explore beyond Riga to fully appreciate what Latvia has to offer.
Latvia’s Independence Day is coming up on November 18, 2018, marking 100 years of independence. Want to know why Latvia is such a cool place to visit? Read on to discover 33 top things to do in Latvia!
For Latvians, the most significant annual holiday isn’t Christmas or New Year—it’s the summer solstice, known locally as Līgo or Jāņi. Many people rank this celebration among the top three things to experience in Latvia. This pagan tradition, over a thousand years old, involves staying awake all night—the shortest night of the year—to greet the sunrise. Bonfires are lit across the country, and while some public events occur in parks, many prefer smaller gatherings with family and friends. Activities include singing, dancing, jumping over bonfires, eating, drinking beer, and generally having a fantastic time. Midsummer is celebrated from the night of June 23 to June 24 annually, two days after the actual solstice. If you get the chance, join a private party or visit a smaller town, like Jaunpiebalga, for an authentic experience.
Another annual event, celebrated in coastal towns and cities, is the Sea Festival or Fishermen’s Festival, usually held on the first Saturday of July. Good places to experience this are Liepaja or Salacgriva.
In the ancient fishermen village of Ragaciems, you can sample freshly smoked fish, either to enjoy at a beach picnic or at a local café. Similar small fishing villages are scattered along the coast, many easily accessible from Riga.
With over 500 kilometers (310 miles) of coastline, a coastal hike is a must-do in Latvia. You can walk nearly anywhere along the coast and encounter fascinating sights. Gauja River, the longest in Latvia, is a favorite for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Numerous companies rent out boats and offer transportation and route suggestions. One recommendation is Ramkalni, where you can rent a raft.
Just 50 kilometers from Riga, Sigulda is a popular tourist destination, offering various activities like kayaking, bungee jumping, hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, and skiing in winter. Buses and trains frequently run between Riga and Sigulda. Summer, autumn, and winter are the best times to visit, each season offering its unique charm.
From Sigulda, you can embark on several hiking trails, none longer than 15 kilometers. Ligatne Nature Trails provide a great exercise opportunity and a chance to see rescued wild mammals in a beautiful natural setting.
For an adrenaline rush, try the Aerodium wind tunnel in Sigulda. Another fun activity is cycling the trail from Sigulda to Ligatne, following the Gauja River.
A short train ride from Riga, Jurmala is Latvia’s most popular resort town. It’s famous for being a vacation spot for Soviet officials and offers a scenic coastal area. If you’re into cycling, there’s a bikeway from Riga to Jurmala, making it a perfect day trip.
Rundale Palace, an 18th-century baroque palace, is another highlight. Renovated in 2014, it features an impressive park that looks much as it did centuries ago. It’s particularly beautiful in the summer, especially around mid-May when tulips bloom.
Liepaja Fortress, built between 1893 and 1906, now offers guided tours of its subterranean pathways and bunkers, while the Karosta Prison in Liepaja provides a unique opportunity to stay overnight in an actual former military prison.
Swamp walking has become increasingly popular in Latvia, with special routes and wooden paths constructed in various locations. For an extraordinary experience, go at sunrise. Popular spots include Cenas Tirelis and Kemeri National Park.
Latvian sauna culture dates back to the 19th century and is more about relaxation than washing up. Traditional black saunas offer a unique experience, such as those in Jaunzageri near Gauja National Park.
Latvia is also great for foraging berries and mushrooms in the forest. Although some mushrooms are poisonous, most Latvians are adept at picking the good ones. It’s a fun activity to try with a local guide.
The Latvian Song and Dance Festival, held every five years, is a significant cultural event featuring around 40,000 performers. It’s an incredible spectacle worth attending if you get the chance.
Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur, can be found in almost any supermarket and is excellent either on its own or mixed with tea.
An extensive hiking trail around Latvia is nearly complete and spans 1,836 kilometers. The trail will be officially inaugurated on November 18, 2018, in time for the country’s centennial celebrations.
Kuldiga, a charming historical town with Europe’s widest waterfall, Venta Rapid, is another must-visit. Located on the way from Riga to Ventspils or Liepaja, it offers a lovely step back in time.
Situated near Cesis, another historical town, Recreation complex “Raksi” features South American llamas, alpacas, and guanacos, making it a unique attraction.
The Amala Geological Trail near Cesis showcases Latvia’s natural beauty and is suitable for both summer and winter hikes. Early spring offers the chance to see kayakers navigating the rapids.
Park of Senses, with its Trail in the Trees and Barefoot trail, offers more exciting nature experiences.
Latgale, an eastern region of Latvia known as the Land of Blue Lakes, is ideal for a summer road trip. Rent a car and explore beautiful towns like Rezekne, Daugavpils, Aglona, Kraslava, and Lake Lubans.
Nearby, Cesvaine Castle is a lesser-known but beautiful spot worth visiting for a peaceful walk.
The large deer park on the road from Gulbene to Rezekne houses over 300 deer species and offers observation platforms to view them.
Latvia also has interesting museums outside of Riga, such as Limbazi Silver Museum and Preili Doll Kingdom.
Former Soviet secret sites like Skrunda and Irbene are now accessible and offer a glimpse into Latvia’s past under the USSR.
Despite lacking high mountains, Latvia’s nature is perfect for winter skiing. Popular venues in Riga for cross-country skiing include Victory Park and Mezaparks. More adventurous options include skiing by the sea or across frozen lakes.
For a real adventure, consider kayaking across the Gulf of Riga—true only for seasoned kayakers but an incredible journey. Alternatively, you can make the less ambitious trip to the Kolka Lighthouse.
Finally, Latvia’s wilderness can be explored by 4×4 offroading vehicles, with organized trips available for those seeking either sightseeing or offroading challenges.
This array of activities proves that Latvia is a treasure trove waiting to be explored, catering to a wide range of interests and offering something for everyone.