What to See in Latvia: Through the Eyes of a Local

Stories and secrets about Latvia’s attractions only a local would know

Seaside cliffs in Latvia

Let me take you on a journey through my home country—Latvia. For now, it’s a virtual one, but I hope my stories inspire you to visit these incredible places in person. From most iconic landmarks to hidden spots known only to a few, I’ve curated a master list of what to see and do in Latvia. Now, it’s time to share these treasures with you—along with carefully crafted day trip itineraries to spark your next adventure.

What To See In Riga & Nearby

Every adventure begins somewhere. Let’s start with Riga—the heart of Latvia, where cobblestones echo stories of medieval times and museums are actually fun.

What to see in Latvia Beyond Riga

To truly experience the essence of Latvia, you need to step outside Riga. From charming seaside towns to centuries-old castles and serene forests, there’s a world of discovery just a short drive or train ride away.

Travel to Latvia’s Cities

Bauska castle in Latvia

Bauska

Cow sculpture in Ventspils

Ventspils

Cow sculpture in Ventspils

Kuldiga

Best Nature Trails and Parks to See in Latvia

From serene forests to enchanting gardens and fascinating rock formations, Latvia’s nature trails and parks are a hiker’s paradise. Each path offers a unique journey, blending tranquility and wonder in the heart of unspoiled landscapes.

What to Experience in Latvia

Paddleboarding in Sunrise in Cenas Bog, Latvia

Sunrise paddleboarding in Cenas bog, Latvia

Boats in lake in Latvia

Paddleboarding / boat ride in Lake Kaņieris

FAQs about travelling to Latvia

What are some unique places to see in Latvia?

The first thing that comes to my mind is obviously nature. Foreign visitors are often surprised by our bogs—there’s something magical about the misty, untouched wetlands that you won’t find in many other places. Our seaside is also a must-see, with a mix of sandy beaches and rocky beaches that stretch for miles along the Baltic Sea.

If you’re into culture and history, two of my personal favorites are the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum and the Art Nouveau Centre in Riga. Both make you feel like you have discovered a time machine and stepped into a whole different era.

How to get around during your trip to Latvia?

Riga is super walkable, so if you’re staying in the capital, you can easily explore most of it on foot. But if you want to visit other towns like Kuldīga, Bauska, Sigulda, Jelgava or Ventspils, public transport is a great option. And the buses and trains are quite affordable.

That said, if you’re planning to explore our nature spots—things like hiking trails, cliffs, and waterfalls—you’ll probably want to rent a car. Many of these places are tucked away in more remote areas, and public transport doesn’t always reach them. But trust me, they’re worth the drive!

Should I bring cash on my Latvia trip?

Latvia uses the Euro (€). You can find ATMs throughout the country, and credit cards are widely accepted. However, having some cash on hand can be useful, especially in smaller towns or markets.