Country Guide

Latvia

Europe

Latvia is a Baltic gem that perfectly balances the sophisticated, Art Nouveau elegance of its capital with wild, untouched landscapes and medieval charm. Travelers flock here for the hauntingly beautiful forests, pristine beaches along the Gulf of Riga, and a deep-rooted folk culture that feels worlds away from the bustle of Western Europe. The best time to visit is during the long, sun-drenched days of late spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin. As a member of the Eurozone, Latvia is easy to navigate, with an efficient bus network that connects the urban centers to the rustic countryside.

Top Attractions in Latvia

The most iconic places to see in Latvia -- tap one to open its city guide.

Old RigaWander through a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and medieval squares that showcase the city's rich Hanseatic history.

Gauja National ParkExplore the 'Latvian Switzerland' for its dramatic river valleys, ancient sandstone cliffs, and dense, sprawling forests.

Art Nouveau DistrictMarvel at the world's highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by intricate facades and mythological figures.

Turaida Museum ReserveClimb the red-brick castle tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Gauja Valley.

Rundale PalaceStep into the opulence of the Baltic Versailles, an 18th-century masterpiece featuring lavish baroque interiors and expansive rose gardens.

Jurmala BeachRelax on miles of white, quartz-sand coastline lined with iconic wooden villas and charming seaside resorts.

Cesis Medieval CastleDescend into the dark, candlelit ruins of this 13th-century fortress for an authentic medieval experience.

Liepaja BeachVisit this windswept coastal city to see its unique military port ruins and enjoy the raw, rugged beauty of the Baltic Sea.

Agloana Basilica

Agloana BasilicaDiscover the spiritual heart of the Latgale region at this stunning white baroque basilica, a major site for Catholic pilgrimage.

Cape KolkaWitness the dramatic collision of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga at this remote, windswept northernmost tip of the Courland Peninsula.

Venta RapidView Europe's widest waterfall, a natural wonder that spans the river and offers a spectacular sight during the spring salmon migration.

Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air MuseumWalk through a living history exhibit featuring traditional wooden farmsteads and windmills gathered from across Latvia's four provinces.

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Cities to Visit in Latvia

1 city in Latvia with a guide.

Riga

Riga is the vibrant Baltic capital known for its extraordinary collection of Art Nouveau architecture and a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town. It is best visited between May and September when the city’s parks are in bloom and the outdoor cafe culture is in full swing.