Rīga is a large sprawling city where a third of Latvia’s population lives. The city lies on the Gulf of Rīga at the mouth of the Daugava river where it meets the Baltic Sea. Rīga features a UNESCO World Heritage historic city centre with stunning Art Nouveau/Jugendstil architecture as well as rustic 19th century wooden architecture.
Jūrmala is Latvia’s most popular coastal resort thanks to its close proximity to Riga the capital city. As well as a stunning coastline with fine, white sandy beaches that stretches for miles, beautiful traditional wooden buildings in Art Nouveau style, and Ķemeri National Park with its scenic bog walk.
Latvia’s charming medieval village of Kuldiga is a popular tourist destination featuring wonderful historic buildings, sand caves, and the widest waterfall in Europe that you can both walk across and swim in.
Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Pape boasts a beautiful and peaceful sandy coastline, a historic fishing village, lots of hiking paths, and a lagoon lake reserve with wild auroxen and horses.
Guide to exploring Latvia’s wonderful historic sites including Bauska Castle built in the 15th century by the Livonian branch Teutonic Knights and the nearby Rundale Palace, built by the Duke of Courland.
The Latvian town of Cēsis is rich in history and has much to explore including a historic old town, medieval castle, and beautiful hiking trails through the forest and riverside.
Sigulda is a short drive from Riga and is set in the stunning Gauja National Park. It’s considered Latvia’s outdoor adventure capital with lots of activities to enjoy including hiking, bobsledding, and zip lining. It is also rich in history with castles and ruins to explore.