Latvia is a beautiful and fascinating country in Northern Europe with a plethora of attractions that will delight all visitors. Whether you're looking for an action-packed vacation or something more laid back, we've rounded up some of the best places to visit in this amazing country!
The quaint town of Kuldiga is renowned for its beauty and one of its most stunning attractions is the widest waterfall in Europe, Venta Rapid. Watching salmon jumping up the waterfall in spring is truly spectacular and something not to miss!
1. Riga Old Town
Riga's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to numerous historic buildings, monuments and sites that are well worth exploring. It's a great place to start your trip and you can easily fill a day with sightseeing.
You'll find many squares in Riga's Old Town, filled with cafes and restaurants, as well as historical monuments. Dome Square features a Cathedral and Bourse House, while Livu Square offers flower beds and outdoor cafes.
Take your time and enjoy the ambiance. You can also find a number of lush green parks to relax in.
2. Mezotne Palace
The beautiful Mezotne Palace is a must-visit attraction when in Latvia. It was once the home of Duke Jacob, and it has undergone various renovations, including in 1802.
If you're a history buff, this is one spot you'll definitely want to visit during your time in Latvia. You can explore the historical castle and museum, connect with Latvia's musical legacy on Folk Song Hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the Gauja River Valley.
3. Liepaja
Liepaja is one of the most popular destinations in Latvia. Its welcoming and colorful atmosphere blends with impressive churches, a huge park and stunning natural landscapes.
There are a lot of things to see and do in Liepaja, including visiting museums, strolling through the long promenade parallel to the sea or sampling the traditional food. Make sure to stop by Peter’s Market, where you can buy all sorts of different things from fresh local produce to kvass -- a low-alcohol drink made with black bread.
Liepaja has two main areas of interest: the city center and Karosta, which used to be a secret Soviet military town. Both of these areas are worth a visit and feature beautiful beaches with white and soft sand.
4. Naujene Village
Naujene is a beautiful village in Latgale that is home to some amazing attractions. You can visit the Mark Rothko Art Center or try delicious ice cream at Skriveri Maja Saldejums.
The Mark Rothko Art Centre is a contemporary art center that hosts temporary exhibitions. You can also learn about the history of the artist and his works.
The Latgallian people pride themselves on their land and culture, so you can see many traditions being upheld here. You can also find some of the best bread and apple pies in the world, and revitalising saunas.
5. Galerija Centrs
Galerija Centrs is one of the largest shopping centres in Riga and is also the crown jewel of its city centre. It has been a popular place for locals and tourists to shop for almost a century.
It is a modern four-storey shopping centre with a health and sports complex on the fifth floor. It encloses Ridzenes street, which is now under a glass arcade with shops, cafes and restaurants.
It is a unique building that is a protected heritage site. It is a part of the history of Old Riga and it has a lot of memories for Latvians.
6. Latvian National Museum
Located in the city centre, the Latvian National Museum houses the country’s richest collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and graphics. It showcases works of art from the 18th century to present day, including Latvian, Russian, and European art.
The museum also keeps a number of various natural history collections, containing 183 000 specimens related to the nature of Latvia and the world. It works to educate people about the importance of protecting nature and using it wisely.
The Riga Motor Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s automotive heritage and history. The museum features exhibits ranging from horse-drawn carriages and early bicycles to classic and modern cars, motorcycles, buses, and trucks.
7. Rga Waterfall
Rga Waterfall is a unique attraction that is a great place to visit during your trip to the country. Located in the Castle Park in Silherovice, this waterfall is a must-visit attraction for those looking to have an unforgettable experience. In addition to the waterfall, the Park features other attractions such as fountains and ponds. The park is a great place to spend a day away from the bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
