7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Latvia

Latvia often flies under the radar, even for seasoned travellers. But those who do make it here usually leave wondering why it isn’t more popular.

With its layered history, hearty food, pristine nature and low prices, it’s one of the most rewarding and easy-going places I’ve travelled to in Europe.

If you’re looking for somewhere affordable, interesting, and a little different, Latvia is well worth a visit.

Why Visit Latvia?

Despite its small size, Latvia packs in an incredible amount of variety.

You’ve got elegant old cities, thick forests, crumbling castles, wide open beaches, and a relaxed pace of life that makes travelling here a breeze.

Whether you’re into history, hiking, street markets or slow travel, Latvia is easy to explore and surprisingly cheap compared to most of Western Europe.

Here are seven reasons why I think you should go.

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1. Beautiful Old Towns and Castles

Latvia’s long and turbulent history is still written into the streets and buildings of its towns and cities.

Riga’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to start. The narrow cobbled lanes and spired churches feel like a medieval film set.

But you’ll also spot Gothic, Baroque, and even early Art Nouveau facades. Don’t miss the House of the Blackheads – probably the city’s most photographed building.

Head northeast to Cēsis, one of my favourite smaller towns in Latvia. It’s home to a 13th-century castle with winding staircases, candlelit towers and a real sense of old-world atmosphere.

The surrounding streets are full of wooden buildings and a few good cafés too.

Another highlight is Turaida Castle, not far from Cēsis. Set in the green hills above the Gauja River, it’s especially pretty in autumn.

Rundāle Palace, in the south, is a completely different vibe – more Versailles than fortress, and full of gold trim and manicured gardens.

2. Unspoiled Nature

Over half of Latvia is covered in forest, which makes it one of the greenest countries in Europe. Outside the cities, much of the countryside feels untouched.

Gauja National Park is a notable highlight and very accessible from Riga. You can base yourself in Sigulda and spend a few days hiking to old castles, caves, and viewpoints.

It’s a peaceful place with well-marked trails and barely any crowds.

Further west, Slītere National Park offers something a bit wilder. It’s one of the oldest protected areas in the Baltic states, with coastal forests, bogs, and sand dunes.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot wildlife like elk, wild boar or seals along the coast.

Latvia also has some lovely, long stretches of beach. Especially near places like Jūrmala or Cape Kolka, where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga.

3. Riga and Other Underrated Cities

Riga is often the first stop for most visitors to Latvia, and for good reason. It’s a genuinely interesting capital – compact, easy to walk around, and full of contrasts.

There’s the historic Old Town, of course, but my favourite area is the Art Nouveau district.

You’ll find some of the most striking early 20th-century buildings in Europe around Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela. Think ornate carvings, curved balconies, and elaborate facades.

I also love Riga’s Central Market. Housed in five enormous former Zeppelin hangars, it’s one of the largest markets in Europe.

You’ll find everything from smoked fish and fresh berries to pickled cabbage and strong local cheese.

Beyond Riga, Liepāja is worth a look. It’s a chilled-out coastal city with a strong creative scene and a stretch of white sand beach that’s almost always empty.

Karosta, the old military district, is weird and fascinating. There’s even a Soviet prison experience if you’re into dark tourism.

Daugavpils, in the southeast, has a very different vibe. It’s more Russian-speaking and less polished, but has a few surprises.

Like the Daugavpils Local History and Art Museum and the Rothko Museum, dedicated to the abstract expressionist who was born here.

4. Strong Sense of Culture and Tradition

Despite being brutally occupied for most of the 20th century, Latvia has managed to maintain its cultural identity, and today it really thrives.

Traditional music, folk art and seasonal festivals are still a big part of life, not just staged for tourists.

If you’re here in June, don’t miss Jāņi – the Latvian midsummer celebration.

It’s one of the biggest holidays of the year, with all-night bonfires, singing, dancing, wreaths of oak leaves and flower crowns, and plenty of beer and cheese.

There’s also a deep appreciation for crafts and handmade goods. Markets often sell intricate woven belts, knitted mittens, wooden utensils and ceramics, many of which are still made using centuries-old methods.

Latvia’s cultural calendar includes everything from world-class opera and ballet at the Latvian National Opera House in Riga to massive music festivals like Positivus and Summer Sound.

The quality and variety are impressive for a country of just under two million people.

5. Seriously Good Food

Latvian food is simple, seasonal and surprisingly hearty. If you enjoy earthy flavours and traditional cooking, you’ll eat well here.

Rupjmaize (dark rye bread) is everywhere. It’s dense, slightly sour, and often served warm with butter, garlic, or even lard. I found myself eating it with pretty much every meal.

The national dish, pelēkie zirņi ar speķi (grey peas with bacon), is about as traditional as it gets. Made with local field peas and fried pork, it’s rustic comfort food.

You’ll also find a lot of potato-based dishes. Crispy pancakes, creamy mash, or cold salads made with dill and sour cream.

Seafood is big too, especially cured herring, salted salmon, smoked sprats, and dried fish.

In summer, you’ll see wild berries everywhere. I had a brilliant dessert of fresh bilberries with sour cream and sugar.

And for something a bit different, try rye bread pudding or soup. It sounds strange, but this mix of rye bread, dried fruit and spices actually makes a pretty decent dessert.

6. A Proper Place to Unwind

If you’re after a slower pace or just want a break from sightseeing, Latvia has loads of low-key wellness options that don’t feel touristy or overpriced.

Jūrmala is the most famous spa destination. It’s a coastal town with a long stretch of sandy beach, pine forests, and plenty of spa hotels.

Some are fairly upmarket, others more budget-friendly, but most offer mud wraps, mineral baths, and classic Eastern European-style treatments.

One of the more unique Latvian traditions is the pirts – a type of sauna ritual that’s both social and therapeutic.

It involves heat, steam, aromatic herbs, and being gently (or not so gently) whisked with leafy birch branches. It leaves you feeling half beaten up, half reborn.

You’ll also find smaller wellness centres in rural areas, especially near lakes or forests. These typically use local ingredients like peat, honey, and herbal infusions in their treatments.

It’s a different, more natural style of wellness, and it fits well with the Latvian love of nature.

7. Easy Outdoor Adventures

Latvia is one of the few places in Europe where you can step outside a major city and be in proper wilderness in less than an hour.

The landscapes aren’t dramatic, but they are varied. That makes it ideal for low-effort, high-reward outdoor adventures.

In winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at local resorts like Ozolkalns or Zagarkalns. They’re small, but fun for a few hours and perfect for beginners.

Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling. Gauja National Park has well-marked trails, castles to explore, and even a few caves.

In the east, around Latgale, you’ll find peaceful lake regions that are perfect for kayaking and wild camping.

Summer’s great for swimming and paddleboarding. Latvia has over 12,000 rivers and lakes, plus a wild coastline that stretches for nearly 500 kilometres.

If you’re into nature but hate crowds, Latvia is honestly one of the best places I’ve found in Europe.

Additional Information on Visiting Latvia

Latvia Travel Tips:

• Latvia is a safe and welcoming country. Just exercise the usual precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, as you would anywhere else.
• Latvian is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Latvian phrases can enhance your experience.
• Public transportation in Latvia is cheap and reliable, including buses, trams, and trains.
• I recommend hiring a car if you want to explore more remote locations.

Best Time to Visit Latvia:

• The best time to visit Latvia depends on your interests.
• Summer, from June to August, offers long sunny days and pleasant temperatures, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the countryside.
• Spring and autumn are good for those who prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds. These seasons are great for hiking if you don’t want to get too hot.
• Winter, from December to early March, is perfect for winter sports such as ice skating and skiing, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Top Destinations to Visit:

• Riga: The capital city is known for its charming Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
• Jurmala: A coastal resort town with beautiful sandy beaches and therapeutic mineral waters.
• Cesis: A medieval town with a stunning castle, cobblestone streets, and a rich history.
• Sigulda: Located in the Gauja National Park, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, with hiking trails and adventure activities.
• Kuldiga: Known for its picturesque Venta Rapid waterfall, historic buildings, and laid-back atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Latvia won’t blow your mind with big-ticket sights or world-famous landmarks. But that’s kind of the point.

It’s laid-back, full of subtle beauty, and still relatively under-the-radar, especially compared to most of Western Europe.

Whether you’re into medieval towns, quiet forests, street food, craft beer, or steaming in a rural sauna, it’s got something to offer without the crowds or the cost.

If you’re after an easy, affordable European trip that still feels fresh and authentic, Latvia’s a solid choice.

Other Posts About Visiting the Baltic States

• My Favourite Photos of the Baltics
• 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Estonia
• 13 Best Things To Do In Riga
• Exploring Tallinn’s Old Town: Estonia’s Beautiful Medieval Capital
• Basic Latvian Phrases
• Basic Estonian Phrases

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