Latvia is a beautiful Baltic country very rich in history and with diverse natural landscapes. In Latvia you can find charming cities, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, caves, forests and more.
Visit Latvia during summer for an ideal sightseeing experience: long and sunny days are punctuated with temperatures reaching nearly hot levels; sunrise occurs as early as 4:30 AM and sets sometime after 10:00 PM, making for easy daytripping around its stunning countryside. Rent a car in Riga and explore the countryside! Drive through lush, verdant forests while stopping to explore small villages, charming towns and hidden gems along the way.
Bird enthusiasts should plan a visit to one of Latvia’s swamps where special trails have been constructed, wooden paths installed, and observation towers provide breathtaking views – in some of which you may even witness sunrise.
Here are some of the must-see places in Latvia for your 1 week vacation in Latvia:
Riga: Riga is the capital city of Latvia and is an absolute must-see place during your stay. Riga is known for its well-preserved medieval town architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Don’t miss the historic Old Town (Vecrīga), Riga Castle, Riga Cathedral, and the iconic House of the Blackheads. Stroll along the Art Nouveau district, visit the massive Central Market, and enjoy the city’s delicious cafes and restaurants. The Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum, situated just outside Riga, showcases traditional Latvian architecture, culture, and rural life. It’s a great place to learn about the country’s heritage.
Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional sauna experience, if you search “Pirts” in your maps app you should find several options. At most public saunas, you will have the option to both heat up in a hot steamy sauna (usually nude), and then cool of in either a cold shower or pool.
Jurmala: This popular and adorable seaside resort town is just a short drive or train ride from Riga. With its sandy beaches, charming architecture, and tranquil atmosphere, Jūrmala is perfect for relaxation. The town also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene and a sprawling beautiful park (Dzintari Forest Park) with extensive playgrounds, an observation tower, and climbing ropes courses.
Sigulda: Located in the Gauja National Park, Sigulda is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including picturesque valleys, caves, and the Gauja River. The area offers various outdoor activities like hiking, bobsleighing, and exploring medieval castles like Turaida Castle.
Rundāle Palace: Located in the southern part of Latvia, this magnificent Baroque palace is surrounded by stunning French-style gardens. It’s one of the most impressive palaces in the Baltic states.
Kuldīga: Often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Kuldīga is a small town with a beautiful old red-brick bridge spanning the Venta River. It’s a picturesque place with well-preserved architecture and a laid-back ambiance.
Engure Nature Park: If you love wildlife, especially birds, Engure Nature Park is situated along the Baltic Sea coast and includes a mix of coastal areas, wetlands, and forests. The Engure Lake and its surrounding marshes provide essential feeding and breeding grounds for a wide range of bird species, including waterfowl, waders, and songbirds. The park has several observation towers and trails that allow birdwatchers to explore different habitats and spot various bird species.
Tours and Experiences that are Uniquely Latvian
Baltic Beach Amber Hunting: The Baltic Sea coastline is known for amber deposits, and hunting for these beautiful, fossilized resin pieces can be a rewarding and relaxing activity along the shores.
Latvian Sauna Ritual: As mentioned above, experience the traditional Latvian sauna ritual, which involves alternating between heat sessions in the sauna and refreshing dips in cold water or even rolling in the snow during winter. It’s a great way to cleanse and rejuvenate your body.
Try Latvian Cuisine: Sample traditional Latvian dishes like gray peas with bacon, black bread, cottage cheese cake, and sklandrausis (a sweet pie made with rye dough, carrot, and potato filling). Latvian cuisine often features locally sourced ingredients. We personally did this food tour in Riga and it was amazing!
