Latvia Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals. Winter can be magical with snow, especially around Christmas markets.

Currency

Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller establishments or rural areas may prefer cash.

Language

Latvian is the official language. Russian is also widely spoken, and English proficiency is common among younger generations and in tourist areas.

Getting around

Inter-city travel is efficiently handled by a network of buses and trains connecting major towns and cities.

Culture & etiquette

Latvians value punctuality and politeness. It's customary to bring a small gift if invited to someone's home, such as flowers or chocolates.

Country highlights

Riga Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this enchanting district boasts stunning Art Nouveau architecture and medieval cobblestone streets.

Jurmala

A popular seaside resort town known for its long sandy beaches, pine forests, and wooden architecture.

Gauja National Park

Explore Latvia's largest national park, featuring castles, lush valleys, and opportunities for hiking and canoeing.

Cesis Medieval Castle

One of the oldest and best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltics, offering a glimpse into the region's history.

Kuldiga

A picturesque town famous for its charming Old Town, the widest waterfall in Europe (Ventas Rumba), and romantic atmosphere.

Rundāle Palace

Often called the 'Versailles of the Baltics', this magnificent Baroque palace is a masterpiece of architecture and design.

What to eat

Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi)

A hearty and traditional dish featuring small grey peas mixed with fried bacon and onions.

Rye Bread (Rupjmaize)

A dense, dark, and slightly sweet bread that is a staple of the Latvian diet.

Pickled Cucumbers (Skābēti Gurķi)

A common side dish, these fermented cucumbers offer a tangy and refreshing flavor.

Smoked Fish

Latvia's proximity to the Baltic Sea makes smoked fish like herring and sprats a popular and delicious choice.

Layered Cake (Rīgas Torte)

A rich, layered cake often made with chocolate and cream, a decadent dessert.

Insider tips

Embrace the outdoors; Latvia's nature is stunning.
Try local bread and dairy products.
Visit during the Midsummer festival (Jāņi).
Learn a few basic Latvian phrases.
Be prepared for variable weather, pack layers.

Cities in Latvia

Riga🇱🇻 Latvia

Art Nouveau charm meets Baltic sea breeze

Explore →

Good to know — FAQ

Is Latvia safe for tourists?

Latvia is generally a very safe country for tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

What is the cost of travel in Latvia?

Latvia is relatively affordable compared to Western European countries. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, especially outside the capital city of Riga.

Do I need a visa for Latvia?

Latvia is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of many countries, including the EU, UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, can enter for short stays without a visa. Always check the latest visa requirements for your nationality.

What are some popular souvenirs to buy?

Look for local linen products, amber jewelry, wooden crafts, or traditional knitted items. Riga Black Balsam, a herbal liqueur, is also a popular souvenir.