Let’s meet in Jelgava, the city I call home! We’ll climb the tower of St. Trinity Church (which is actually not a church!) and be treated to stunning panoramic views of the city. Along the way, we’ll uncover fun facts about Jelgava’s rich history at its museums, and I’ll introduce you to quirky sculptures, the wild Palienes Meadows (where, if you’re lucky, you might even meet some horses!), and many more of Jelgava’s unique attractions.
Sounds like the perfect plan for a day trip to Jelgava, doesn’t it?
To kick off our list of what to see in Jelgava, we’ll start with the iconic St. Trinity Church Tower. The fascinating stories you’ll uncover here will be the perfect prologue for all the discoveries that lie ahead. Let’s dive in!
Location: Jelgava, Latvia
Cost: Mix of free and paid experiences
How to get there: Public transport or driving. In Jelgava you can get around on feet, by a bike or by a car.
Jelgava St. Trinity Church Tower: Discover History Through Modern Tech
Have to purchase an entrance ticket – Working hours and ticket prices
The Holy Trinity Church in Jelgava was once a church, but it no longer serves as one. However, as you can see, it still maintains the appearance of a church from the outside. It’s a truly beautiful building.
Today, inside, you’ll find a museum that tells the story of Jelgava in a fun and interactive way, with a touch of gamification! To prove that, let me share an interesting fact you can discover here: Did you know that, in the past, Jelgava had a floating raft bridge that had to be dismantled every fall and reassembled every spring?
For a museum to be engaging, it’s not just about the story – it’s about how the story is told. I often struggle to focus on long descriptions, so I usually just glance at the exhibits without diving into all the details. But here, the history of Jelgava comes alive through games, videos, and audio, which really capture your attention and leave you eager to learn more.
What will you discover in Jelgava’s St. Trinity Church?
On the 3rd floor, step into a room where you can hear the sound of horses’ hooves echoing on the ancient streets of Jelgava. In the center, you’ll find an interactive map that shows how the city has evolved over the years, along with fascinating facts about its history.
On the 4th floor, don’t miss the digital fashion show showcasing Jelgava’s fashion through the centuries, with a special focus on wedding dresses.
If you’re curious about what a “baptism machine” is, or how this historic building looked when it was still a church, make sure to check out the audio recordings on the 5th floor. These recordings offer the full story of St. Trinity Church Tower’s history, including what happened to the tower and why there is now a glass pyramid at the top.
And as the cherry on top, climb to the top to explore the exhibition hall and observation platform, where you’ll enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Jelgava.
After that, let’s stretch our legs at my favorite place to see in Jelgava – Pasta Sala.
What to Do on Jelgavas Pasta Sala?
Fountains, sculptures, picturesque walking paths, and activities for every taste. Intrigued yet?
One Island – 3 Different Sculpture Parks
Is that a horse? And what’s that mysterious shape over there? As you step into the first sculpture park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a stunning collection of fireclay sculptures, thoughtfully nestled among lush greenery. Each sculpture tells its own unique story—some abstract, others more recognizable—but all of them are captivating in their own way. These masterpieces were created during the Fireclay Sculpture Symposium, an annual international event held right here in Jelgava.
As you explore, you’ll notice that many of the sculptures feature tiny holes and openings. The reason behind this? At the end of the symposium, these sculptures are set ablaze from the inside out in a mesmerizing performance, transforming into fiery works of art.
And as night falls, the magic doesn’t stop. Soft, ambient lights gently illuminate the sculptures, casting enchanting shadows and revealing their intricate details in a whole new light.
In the heart of Pasta Sala, you’ll come across a fence, behind which the heads of various sand sculptures peek out, inviting your curiosity. You’ve likely heard about Jelgava’s famous sand sculptures, right? Every summer, a grand event showcases the latest masterpieces, each one more impressive than the last. These intricate creations are at their finest right after they’re completed, but over time, nature takes its course, and they slowly begin to decay, making way for the next generation of sand art to take center stage next year.
Check prices and working hours for sand sculptures here.
Finally, the third sculpture park is tucked away at the far end of the island. As you make your way there, take a moment to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the river. The sculptures here are made from wood and have a fun, whimsical charm. Some of them seem to hint at fairy tales, adding a touch of magic to the surroundings. My favorite? A horse, flipped upside down.
The Romance of Pasta Island in Jelgava: Teahouse, Lighthouse, and a Ship
Where could that mysterious melody be coming from?
On warm summer evenings, as the sun dips below the horizon and twilight blankets the sky, Pasta Island in Jelgava transforms into a place of pure romance. Lights begin to shimmer, and the fountains across the river burst into a dazzling symphony of colors. Yes, technically, the fountains aren’t on Pasta Island—they’re on the opposite bank—but you can appreciate their beauty from here. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can cross the river and experience the thrill of walking right underneath them.
Adding to the magic, a soft glow embraces the quaint lighthouse and the St. Trinity Church Tower, painting an enchanting backdrop perfect for an intimate evening stroll.
But on sunny days, my favorite way to enjoy the island is a bit different. I love stopping by the charming teahouse for a cup of coffee and a decadent pastry. My regular spot is one of the outdoor tables, offering a serene view of the lighthouse and the nearby ship—which I’ve come to learn serves as an event hall. It’s a tranquil moment of indulgence, made even better by the soft, mysterious melody that drifts through the air.
Where does that music come from? I haven’t figured it out yet. So I hope it isn’t only in my head.
Activities on Pasta Island, Jelgava: Something for Every Taste
After your stroll, you have a choice: move on to the next place to see in Jelgava or embrace a bit of adventure with one of the many outdoor activities available. During the warmer months, you can:
- Bask in the sunshine on the sandy beach.
- Explore the Lielupe River from a new angle with a boat ride, a paddle in a kayak, or a glide on a SUP board.
- Break a sweat at the outdoor fitness area—though I’m no expert, the equipment looks top-notch.
- Traveling with kids? Let them burn off some energy at the vibrant playground.
When winter arrives, Pasta Island transforms into a magical escape with its ice rink, perfect for skating your way to some frosty fun!
Cross Jelgava’s Mitava Bridge and Say Hi to the Famous Student Sculpture
Want to Make a Wish?
Then head over to the Mītava Bridge, another popular activity to enjoy in Jelgava. Pause at the center of the bridge to take in the stunning views of the river and Pasta Island. Afterward, make your way to the Jelgava Student Sculpture.
To me, “Jēkabs Ceriņš” (the sculpture’s name) looks a bit gloomy, almost as if he could use a cup of hot coffee—especially on a rainy day. Perhaps student life isn’t always a breeze. But there’s a legend: if you rub the handle of his umbrella and make a heartfelt wish, it just might come true!
After snapping a photo with one of Jelgava’s most iconic attractions, it’s time to chart a course for another hidden gem: the Svēte Floodplain Meadows Boardwalk. On the way, we’ll make a quick stop to capture yet another of Jelgava’s unique landmarks, one that carries a powerful story of its own.
Discover Jelgava’s Wheel of Time 100: 100 Years, 100 Stones
Here, much like in the church tower, the story unfolds in a truly captivating manner. Latvia’s years of existence are symbolized by stones carried on people’s heads—a poignant metaphor for the weight of history and responsibility. But each person is also a mirror. When you gaze into it, you see yourself, a reminder that we are the ones who shape and carry the legacy of our nation. It’s a deeply moving and thought-provoking message.
One Foot in the City of Jelgava Other in Nature : Boardwalks of Svete River
In the summertime, this place feels alive with nature’s vibrant energy. Bright green reeds sway gently in the breeze, shimmering patches of water peek through the foliage, and the occasional pop of purple blossoms adds a splash of color. (Thank you, helpful information board, for teaching me that these lovely flowers are called purple loosestrife!)
I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical about the Svēte Floodplain Boardwalk. Its location within the city, so close to residential houses, had me wondering if it could truly offer a peaceful escape. But I’m happy to report that my worries were pointless. The area is wonderfully serene, with the soft, rhythmic chirping of grasshoppers providing the perfect summer soundtrack.
The boardwalk itself is an impressive wooden network that meanders through the lush greenery. You may be pleasantly surprised by just how extensive it is. The paths are divided into two sections, separated by a short walk along a gravel road. The smaller section winds around a pond, making it the perfect choice if you’re hoping to spot a duck or two. The longer section twists and turns, branching out in various directions with multiple exits to explore. In total, the boardwalk stretches 1,665 meters, offering plenty of room for a satisfying, leisurely walk.
Later, we’ll talk about the Lielupe Floodplain Meadows, another stunning spot to explore in Jelgava. But here’s what makes this boardwalk special: because of the pond and nearby ditches, water is present here even during the summer. This means you don’t have to wait for spring floods to enjoy the sight of aquatic plants dipping into the water. That said, I can only imagine how wild this place must look during the dramatic spring overflow.
And if you’re still feeling energetic after your walk, there is still plenty to see in Jelgava. Next up, let’s head over to Jelgava Palace to admire its grand exterior!
Explore the Exterior of Baroque Gem – Jelgavas Palace
I was immediately drawn to the color palette of Jelgava Palace—the deep red facade accented with crisp white details and dark highlights. It’s a bold choice that leaves a lasting impression. If you paid attention in history class, you might already know that Jelgava Palace holds the title of the largest Baroque-style palace in the Baltic States.
But did you know there’s also a beautiful park right next to the palace? Complete with a charming little bridge, it’s the perfect place to escape the summer heat beneath the shade of its trees.
Finally, we’ll head to the Lielupe Floodplain Meadows, keeping our fingers crossed for a chance to spot one of the majestic wild horses that call the area home.
Climb Jelgavas Observation Tower, With a Chance to See Wild Horses
Climb up the observation tower, and with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of a wild horse. Even if only as a distant silhouette in the grass.
Although the horses like to play a hide and seek, the beautiful views from the tower make the visit worthwhile. On one side, you’ll see the charming rooftops of Jelgava, with the iconic spire of St. Trinity Church Tower standing proudly alongside other church spires. On the other side, a serene, postcard-perfect view of the river unfolds, meandering gracefully through the landscape.
As for the wild horses, spotting them is always a matter of luck. These free-roaming animals live on their own terms. On cooler days, you might be fortunate enough to see them ambling near the fence, their movements exuding quiet grace. Other times, they may be mere specks in the distance or hidden entirely from view.
On my most recent visit, a scorching summer day, I didn’t see a single horse, which is why I don’t have a picture of these magnificent creatures to share.
Before I wrap up, one crucial reminder: please don’t feed the wild horses! It’s vital to respect their freedom and natural habitat so they can continue to thrive in this beautiful space.
Bonus – Moose, the Symbol of Jelgava
These spots aren’t part of the main Jelgava day trip itinerary, but if you happen to pass by, they’re worth stopping to snap a quick photo. First thing you need to know is that a moose appears on Jelgava’s flag. Because the moose holds special significance for the city, you’ll also find two moose sculptures scattered throughout Jelgava.
One of them greets visitors in Ozolskvērs (location) which is conveniently on the way to the “Wheel of time 100” sculpture. Why not make a quick stop? Ozolskvērs also features a lovely children’s playground and a remarkable tree—an oak. After about 250 years of life, it was cut down and transformed into a unique art installation called “Time Train.”
The second elk sculpture stands in Langervaldas Forest (location). This one is crafted from wood, and it’s accompanied by a few other wooden friends. The Langervaldas forest itself is crisscrossed with a network of walking paths, making it an ideal destination for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in a peaceful forest walk.
And with that, my list of must-see spots in Jelgava comes to a close—for now, at least! I’m sure I’ll be adding to it in the future.
FAQs about Day trip to Jelgava
How to get around Jelgava?
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option, Jelgava is a bike-friendly city. This is actually the way I get around town. Nearly everywhere, you’ll find bike lanes and parking spots for bikes. During the summer season, you can also spot Bolt scooters on the streets. Most of the route should be walkable for pedestrians, although the walking trail in the Svēte floodplain meadows is a bit farther from other attractions, so it would take about an hour to reach on foot. But for those who are driving, there always seems to be a free place to park in Jelgava.
Where to Eat in Jelgava?
If you’re going for breakfast, brunch or lunch I’d recommend Brokastnīca. I also think Shikisushi serves pretty good sushi and Kro kebabs serve great kebab.
Thoughts?
I might be biased, but I do think Jelgava has some pretty great and engaging museums and a lot of picturesque places for walks. We also have a lot of fun events happening in Jelgava throughout the year, combining the sightseeing with a sculpture festival or farmers market would be even more fun. So I hope to see you in Jelgava one day!
Other things to see and do in Latvia