Latvia is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations, offering a rich mix of history, culture, nature, and seasonal experiences. From medieval old towns and grand palaces to wild national parks and Baltic Sea beaches, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in Latvia for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re planning a city break in Riga, a family-friendly holiday, or a nature-focused adventure, this guide covers the very best attractions and experiences across the country.
Things to do in Latvia: Key Takeaways
This guide covers the best things to do in Latvia for first-time visitors, families, nature lovers, and travelers visiting in summer or winter. The top things to do in Latvia include:
- Explore Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and medieval landmarks
- Walk through Riga’s Art Nouveau District, one of Europe’s largest
- Visit Gauja National Park for hiking, castles, and river valleys
- Relax on Jurmala’s white sand beaches along the Baltic Sea
- Discover local dishes at Riga Central Market
- Walk the Kemeri National Park bog boardwalk
- Tour Rundāle Palace, often called the “Versailles of Latvia.”
- Visit Turaida Castle in the heart of Gauja National Park
- Experience Latvia’s Christmas markets in winter
- Attend summer festivals such as Līgo and the Song and Dance Festival
Things to Do in Riga
Riga, Latvia’s capital, is a vibrant city known for its architecture, historic landmarks, and lively cultural scene. It’s often the starting point for most visitors and offers plenty to see and do.
01/ Walk Through the Art Nouveau District
Riga is home to one of the largest and best-preserved collections of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. The streets around Alberta iela feature elaborate façades, sculpted figures, and decorative details dating back to the early 20th century.
A self-guided walk through this district is one of the best ways to experience Riga’s architectural heritage, while the Art Nouveau Museum provides deeper insight into the style and daily life of the era.
02/ Visit Riga Central Market
Located inside historic Zeppelin hangars near the Old Town, Riga Central Market is one of the largest markets in Europe and a must-visit attraction.
Here you’ll find fresh produce, smoked fish, local cheeses, meats, and traditional Latvian foods such as grey peas with bacon and rye bread. It’s an excellent place to experience everyday Latvian life and sample regional flavors.
03/ Riga’s Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Riga’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical gem, reflecting centuries of medieval and early modern European culture.
Walking through its cobbled streets, you’ll encounter St. Peter’s Church, the House of the Blackheads, and countless other architectural marvels.
The Old Town is a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles, offering visitors a window into Latvia’s rich and diverse history.
Don’t miss a visit to Riga Castle, once the home of the Livonian Order and now the residence of the Latvian president.
Riga is by far the most popular area in Latvia. Whether you’re planning to visit or looking at something more permanent, such as the Latvia Golden Visa, Riga is a top choice for settling down in Latvia.
Best Natural Attractions in Latvia
Latvia is one of Europe’s greenest countries, with dense forests, wetlands, and protected national parks covering a large part of the country.
04/ Gauja National Park
Often called the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Gauja National Park is the country’s largest and most visited national park. It features river valleys, sandstone cliffs, forests, and scenic hiking trails.
The park is also home to major historical sites such as Turaida Castle and Cēsis Castle, making it ideal for travelers who want to combine nature with history. Hiking, canoeing, and cycling are popular activities throughout the year.
05/ Ķemeri National Park and Bog Boardwalk
Ķemeri National Park is best known for its vast wetlands and raised bogs. The wooden boardwalk trails allow visitors to explore this fragile ecosystem while protecting the environment.
It’s one of the best places in Latvia for birdwatching, photography, and quiet nature walks, especially early in the morning or at sunset.
Things to Do in Latvia with Kids
Latvia is a family-friendly destination with attractions designed to entertain and educate children of all ages. This, along with the many international schools in Latvia, makes it a top option for visitors or residents.
06/ Riga Zoo
Riga Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is home to more than 400 animal species, including giraffes, tigers, and exotic birds.
The zoo’s spacious enclosures and tropical house make it a fun and educational day trip for families visiting Riga.
07/ Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
Located just outside Riga, the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum showcases traditional Latvian rural life through historic farmsteads, windmills, and workshops.
Seasonal events, craft demonstrations, and folk performances make the museum especially engaging for children and first-time visitors.
08/ Tarzans Adventure Park
If your children love adventure, Tarzans Adventure Park in Sigulda is the place to be. Set in a lush forest, this outdoor park offers thrilling zip-lines, obstacle courses, and climbing activities for kids of all ages.
It’s the perfect place for families to enjoy the great outdoors while challenging themselves in a safe and fun environment.
09/ Ventspils Children’s Town
Ventspils Children’s Town is a purpose-built recreational area featuring playgrounds, a mini train, and an interactive science center.
It’s an easy and enjoyable stop for families traveling along Latvia’s Baltic coast.
Unusual Things to Do in Latvia
There are also some quirky and interesting things to do in Latvia. Whether you’re into the darker side of history or want to explore more on the wild side, here are some unusual and crazy things to do in Latvia.
10/ Karosta Prison
Located in Liepāja, Karosta Prison is a former Soviet military prison that now operates as a museum.
Visitors can tour the cells, learn about Soviet-era history, and even participate in immersive experiences that recreate life inside the prison.
11/ Ligatne Underground Bunkers
Hidden beneath a rehabilitation center near Ligatne, these Cold War-era bunkers were built to protect Soviet officials in the event of nuclear conflict.
The bunkers remain largely intact and offer a fascinating look into Latvia’s 20th-century history.
12/ Skrunda-1 Soviet Ghost Town
Skrunda-1 is an abandoned Soviet military base that once housed radar stations and residential buildings.
Today, it stands as an eerie reminder of the Cold War and is popular with photographers and history enthusiasts.
13/ Kemeri Bog Shoe Race
Held annually, the Bog Shoe Race is one of Latvia’s most unusual cultural events. Participants race through bog terrain wearing traditional wooden shoes, celebrating local heritage in a lighthearted way.
Things to Do in Latvia for History Lovers
Latvia is steeped in history, and its castles, museums, and monuments offer a wealth of information about the past. Let’s look at some Latvia attractions that will take you on a blast to the past.
14/ Turaida Castle
Turaida Castle, located in the heart of Gauja National Park in the Turaida Museum Reserve, is one of Latvia’s most famous landmarks. The medieval castle, which dates back to the 13th century, is beautifully preserved, and visitors can explore the towers, walls, and museum exhibits that tell the story of its history. From the castle’s hilltop, you’ll have stunning views of the park and the Gauja River.
15/ Cesis Castle
Another historical gem is Cesis Castle, located in the town of Cesis. It is one of the oldest and most well-preserved castles in Latvia. Visitors can explore the medieval ruins, the castle’s museum, and learn about the rich history of the Livonian Order, which once ruled much of the region.
16/ Rundāle Palace
Rundāle Palace, often referred to as the “Versailles of Latvia,” is a Baroque and Rococo masterpiece situated in the picturesque countryside. The palace was built in the 18th century as the summer residence of the Duke of Courland, and it remains one of Latvia’s most iconic historical landmarks. Its opulent interiors, grand gardens, and surrounding parkland make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Latvian aristocratic life.
Things to Do in Latvia in Summer
17/ Relax on Latvia’s White Sand Beaches
Latvia’s Baltic Sea coastline boasts some of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. The long, sandy stretches of Jurmala, Liepaja, and Ventspils are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
Jurmala is especially famous for its spa resorts and family-friendly activities, while the Liepaja Blue Flag beach offers a more tranquil, less crowded atmosphere.
Ventspils, with its well-maintained promenades and lively cultural events, also attracts plenty of visitors. Along these beaches, you’ll find cozy cafes, where you can enjoy local seafood and ice cream, all while soaking in the sun and fresh sea breeze.
If you’re planning on investing in Latvia, take the time to check out the real estate potential in Jūrmala. Buying property in Latvia is a great option for foreign investors looking to make a start in the country. Plus, as one of the options under the Latvia Golden Visa, the process is simplified for you and your family to obtain residency in Latvia.
18/ Explore Latvia’s National Parks
Latvia’s national parks are treasures of natural beauty and diversity. Gauja National Park, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” offers scenic trails that wind through dense forests, along deep valleys, and past historical sites such as Turaida Castle.
Hiking, canoeing, and cycling are popular here, and the park is an excellent place for birdwatching, with a wide variety of species calling it home. Kemeri National Park, with its unique wetlands, bogs, and diverse flora and fauna, is another must-visit.
The boardwalks through the bogs provide an opportunity to explore Latvia’s untouched natural landscapes. Both parks are ideal for nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in Latvia’s pristine outdoors.
19/ Outdoor Festivals and Events in Latvia
Latvia’s summer calendar is packed with vibrant outdoor festivals and events that celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the most famous is the Song and Dance Festival, a UNESCO-recognized event held every five years, where thousands of singers and dancers gather to perform traditional Latvian songs and dances. The festival is a colorful, energetic celebration of Latvian identity.
Another major event is the Līgo (Midsummer) Celebrations, which takes place around the summer solstice. This ancient celebration involves bonfires, folk songs, dancing, and traditional food and drink.
The Līgo festival is a joyful and magical experience, especially in rural areas where locals celebrate under the midnight sun. This is an absolute must for those moving to Latvia to have the true local experience.
Things to Do in Latvia in Winter
20/ Skiing in Sigulda
Sigulda, located just an hour from Riga, is Latvia’s prime winter sports destination.
Known as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Sigulda offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities on its well-maintained slopes. The resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.
In addition to skiing, Sigulda is famous for its bobsleigh track, which offers a unique experience where visitors can try the thrill of bobsleighing, either as a participant or by watching international competitions.
The picturesque surroundings, with snow-covered hills and forests, add to the charm of Sigulda in winter, making it a top choice for those looking to retire in Latvia.
21/ Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing Adventures
For a true Latvian winter experience, head to the country’s frozen lakes to try ice fishing. In rural areas, locals drill holes in the thick ice and use traditional methods to catch fish, offering a peaceful and rewarding outdoor activity.
Alternatively, snowshoeing through Latvia’s snow-covered forests is a fantastic way to experience the winter landscape. Many national parks, such as Gauja National Park and Kemeri National Park, offer trails for snowshoeing, allowing visitors to explore Latvia and its serene beauty.
22/ Traditional Christmas Markets in Riga and Beyond
Riga’s Christmas markets are an essential part of the festive season, with the main market held in the Old Town.
Offering some of the best things to do in Latvia in December, visitors can wander through charming stalls selling handcrafted goods, including wooden toys, knitted scarves, hot chocolate, and gingerbread cookies.
Traditional Latvian foods such as speķa pīrādziņi (pork pastries) and mulled wine are served, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
The market is beautifully decorated, and the sound of Christmas carols fills the air, making it a magical experience for anyone visiting Riga during the holiday season.
23/ Winter Spa Retreats
As one of the Baltic States, Latvia is also known for its luxurious winter spa retreats, particularly in the coastal town of Jurmala, which has been a famous health resort destination for centuries.
The town offers a variety of therapeutic treatments, including mud baths, hot saunas, and massages, all aimed at rejuvenating body and mind during the cold winter months. Jurmala’s tranquil setting, with views of the snowy coastline, enhances the relaxing spa experience.
Many of the spa resorts are housed in beautiful wooden buildings that add to the charm of the experience, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of winter exploration when you visit Latvia.
