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If you have seen the landmarks in Europe
, you’d know there are quite a few of them are here in Latvia.Latvia is a land rich in cultural and natural wonders that bear witness to the country’s fascinating heritage and vibrant spirit.
From the majestic castles and cathedrals to the sprawling forests and tranquil lakes, Latvia’s countless landmarks are a feast for the eyes and a testimony to the country’s enduring legacy.
Each monument, each vista, tells a story of a proud nation that has overcome countless challenges and continues to flourish in the face of adversity.
Join me on a journey to discover the beauty and grandeur of Latvia’s most iconic landmarks!
1. Riga Old Town
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the medieval buildings such as Riga Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, and the House of the Blackheads.
Take a stroll in the narrow Riga streets or enjoy shopping in the souvenir shops.
Don’t miss: Visit the Three Brothers, the oldest houses with unique and lavishly decorated facades. Explore the Riga Central Market for local food, drinks, and souvenirs.
Lastly, take a walk on the Riga Canals and enjoy the beautiful views.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history, legends, and stories of the Old Town. If you visit in December, take the opportunity to explore the Christmas market and try the traditional Latvian cuisine.
Lastly, watch out for street performers and musicians adding to the Old Town’s charm.
2. Rundāle Palace
A stunning 18th-century palace located in Rundāle, Latvia.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the palace’s luxurious rooms and admire the intricate Baroque and Rococo-style architecture. Wander through the beautiful French-style gardens and enjoy the fountains, flower beds, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: The Golden Hall, with its gilded décor and stunning mirrors, is considered a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Also, don’t forget to visit the White Hall, Green Hall, and Great Gallery, all of which are breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals in the palace gardens.
Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and consider hiring a local guide to get a better understanding of the palace’s rich history and hidden gems.
3. Turaida Castle
Turaida Castle is a medieval castle located in the historical region of Vidzeme, Latvia. The castle was built in the 13th century and was the residence of the Archbishopric of Riga.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s various chambers and climb the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle’s museum features exhibits on the history of the region and the castle itself.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the castle’s famous sculpture park, which features over 100 sculptures by Latvian artists. The park is situated on the castle’s grounds and is a unique attraction in its own right.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and architecture.
Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb throughout the castle.
4. Sigulda Castle
Medieval castle in Sigulda, Latvia.
What to see or do: Visit the castle’s museum to learn about its history and view artifacts from various periods. Climb the towers for fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the castle grounds and gardens.
Don’t miss: The stunning scenery of the Gauja River valley from the castle terrace.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the warmer months to enjoy the beautiful gardens and outdoor events that take place at the castle.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and legends.
5. Kuldīga Old Town
A charming and picturesque old town located in the western part of Latvia.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets to admire the well-preserved historic buildings dating back to the 17th-18th centuries.
Visit the Kuldīga Castle Museum, climb the steps to the top of the old town bridge for a stunning view of the Ventas Rumba waterfall, and explore the local artisan shops and galleries.
Don’t miss: Witness the famous tradition of the Ventas Rumba waterfall fisherman, who catch salmon using handmade traps during the annual salmon migration.
Enjoy a glass of local beer at the Kuldīga Brewery or try some traditional Latvian cuisine at one of the many local cafes and restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to experience the Old Town in full bloom with beautiful flowers and greenery. Take a guided tour to learn more about the town’s history and architecture.
Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
6. Bauska Castle
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s rich history and architecture, including its Gothic and Renaissance features. Visit the castle museum to learn more about the castle’s role in Latvia’s history.
Don’t miss: Climb to the top of the castle tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: Time your visit to catch one of the castle’s many cultural events, including concerts and theatre performances. Take advantage of the nearby walking and cycling trails to explore the scenic landscape.
7. Liepāja Beach
Liepāja Beach is a 10km long white sand beach located in the city of Liepāja, Latvia.
What to see or do: Liepāja Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and kiteboarding. You can rent equipment and take lessons from the local surf school.
The beach also features playgrounds and volleyball courts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the sunset over the Baltic Sea. It’s truly breathtaking.
Also, visit the Karosta Prison, which is a historic military prison located nearby.
Insider travel tips: – Bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be strong.
8. Kemeri National Park
Kemeri National Park is a protected area located in the western part of Latvia, covering more than 38,000 hectares of forests, swamps, and lakes.
What to see or do: Explore the park’s extensive trail system and discover its diverse plant and animal life. Take a dip in the park’s natural mineral springs, known for their healing properties.
Visit the Kemeri Bog Boardwalk, which offers panoramic views of the bog landscape.
Don’t miss: The Great Kemeri Bog, a vast expanse of wetland that is home to rare and endangered species, such as the black grouse and Eurasian eagle-owl.
The watchtower offers incredible views of the bog below.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring insect repellent as mosquitoes can be numerous in some parts of the park, especially during the summer.
Avoid venturing off the marked trails as the bog can be treacherous. Consider visiting during the offseason months to avoid crowds and experience the park in a quieter setting.
9. Cesis Castle
Medieval castle ruins in Cesis, Latvia.
What to see or do: Explore the castle ruins, climb the tower for stunning views, visit the exhibition hall.
Don’t miss: The Knight’s Hall with its intricate brick walls and the castle’s underground tunnels.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the castle’s cobblestone paths and climb the tower early in the morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
10. Gauja National Park
Gauja National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Latvia, covering an area of over 900 square kilometers. It is a beautiful region with lush forests, rivers, lakes, cliffs, and caves.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: A visit to the medieval town of Sigulda, known as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” with its stunning views, ancient castle ruins, and quaint streets lined with charming cafes and restaurants.
Insider travel tips:
11. Jurmala Beach
A popular white sand beach on the Baltic Sea, located 25 km west of Riga, the capital of Latvia.
What to see or do: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and other water sports.
Take a stroll along the 33 km long beach and admire the wooden Art Nouveau architecture of the nearby resort town of Jurmala.
Visit the seaside Jomas Street for souvenirs, street performers, and local restaurants and cafes.
Don’t miss: The Dzintari Forest Park, the largest green area in Jurmala, which offers hiking trails, playgrounds, a summer theater, and a vintage narrow-gauge railway.
The Livu aqua park, offering water slides, pools, saunas, and spa treatments. The annual Jurmala Festival, featuring international music, dance, and theater performances.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a beach umbrella, as the sun can be intense in the summer.
Avoid the peak season crowds in July and August, and visit in May, June, and September, when the weather is still warm, but the prices are lower.
Take advantage of the frequent trains, buses, and taxis from Riga to Jurmala, which take less than an hour and run daily.
12. Daugavpils Fortress
A 19th-century fortress located in Daugavpils, Latvia.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the fortress and learn about its history as a military stronghold and its importance in Latvian history.
Visit the museum inside the fortress, which features exhibits on the history of the fortress and the surrounding area. Explore the grounds and see the original defensive walls, gates, and buildings.
Don’t miss: The observation tower, which offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Check the fortress’s website for special events and exhibitions. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
If you’re visiting in the summer, bring sunscreen and a hat as there is little shade on the grounds. And finally, don’t forget your camera – the fortress is a stunning example of European military architecture!
13. Ventspils Castle
Ventspils Castle is a medieval castle located in the city of Ventspils, Latvia.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s three towers and courtyard, which offer stunning views of the city and the Baltic Sea. Check out the museum inside the castle, which details the history of Ventspils and the castle itself.
Don’t miss: The interactive exhibitions at the museum, including a medieval torture display and a chance to try on armor and helmets. Take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about its history and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during the annual Ventspils Medieval Festival in August, where the castle and surrounding area are transformed into a medieval town complete with jousting, craftspeople, and live music.
14. Riga Central Market
Riga Central Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is housed in five former German Zeppelin hangars and offers a wide variety of stalls selling local produce, meats, fish, dairy, bakery, and souvenirs.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the market and explore the various stalls selling traditional Latvian foods, like smoked fish, meats, cheeses, pastries, and bread.
Find unique souvenirs like wooden handicrafts, amber jewelry, and traditional Latvian clothing.
Don’t miss: Try a traditional Latvian dish, like grey peas with bacon, sauerkraut, and sausage, or a rye bread sandwich with smoked salmon.
Don’t miss the chance to sample the local spirits like Riga Black Balsam or Latvian beer.
Insider travel tips: The market can get crowded, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
It’s also worth noting that some vendors only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to bring some with you.
15. Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
The Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum is a living museum that showcases the traditional way of life in Latvia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the recreated village, complete with authentic wooden buildings, gardens, and farms. There are also demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and blacksmithing.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional Latvian food, such as black bread, smoked fish, and honey cakes. There are also seasonal events that offer even more cultural experiences, such as the Summer Solstice celebration.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also a good idea to bring a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
16. St
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: Visiting the famous St.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to take a ghost tour to learn about the neighborhood’s spooky history, and don’t forget to try some beignets from the world-famous Café Du Monde.
Also, avoid driving in the neighborhood and opt for walking or taking public transportation instead.
17. Art Nouveau district Riga
The Art Nouveau District in Riga is a charming neighborhood that showcases one of the world’s largest and most impressive collections of Art Nouveau architecture.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the streets and marvel at the intricate facades of the buildings, with their elaborate carvings, ornate balconies, and colorful mosaics.
Make sure to stop by the Art Nouveau Museum to learn more about the history and significance of this architectural style.
Don’t miss: The iconic building at 10b Albert Street, often referred to as the “House of the Black Cats,” which is adorned with two large feline sculptures on its roof.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour of the district to learn more about the individual buildings and their unique features.
Be sure to visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos.
18. Freedom Monument Riga
The Freedom Monument is a large bronze sculpture located in the heart of Riga, Latvia. It was built in 1935 to honor the soldiers who fought for Latvia’s independence.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the monument, which consists of a tall column that is topped with a statue of Liberty holding three stars.
It’s also worth taking a moment to read the inscriptions on the monument’s base, which tell the story of Latvia’s struggle for freedom.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour during daylight hours. The guards wear traditional Latvian dress and perform a solemn ritual that is both impressive and moving.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the monument in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds.
19. House of the Blackheads Riga
The House of the Blackheads is an iconic historical building in Riga, Latvia, and is one of the most important landmarks in the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the building, which was originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried German merchants.
The building was rebuilt several times over the centuries, and its current appearance dates back to the early 20th century.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided tour of the House of the Blackheads, which offers a chance to explore the impressive interior, including the grand ballroom.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening when the building is beautifully illuminated.
20. Livu Aqua Park Jurmala
Livu Aqua Park Jurmala is the largest outdoor water park in the Baltics, offering a range of exhilarating water rides and attractions.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy over 20 different water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and several children’s play areas. There are also multiple saunas, hot tubs, and other relaxation options available for those looking to unwind.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the park’s longest and fastest water slide, the Black Hole, which features special lighting effects and an adrenaline-pumping drop.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a prime spot for your belongings.
21. Salaspils Concentration Camp Memorial
A memorial located in Salaspils, Latvia, dedicated to the victims of the Salaspils Concentration Camp.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibits and educational displays about the camp and its history. The memorial also features a sculpture park and a beautiful rose garden.
Don’t miss: A guided tour of the memorial is highly recommended to fully understand the history and significance of the site. The “Wall of Sorrow,” a powerful monument depicting the suffering of those imprisoned in the camp, is also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved. Additionally, plan to spend at least a few hours at the memorial to fully experience everything it has to offer.
Finally, consider visiting during the week as the memorial can be quite busy on weekends.
22. Hill of Crosses Kurzeme
A historic pilgrimage site covered in thousands of crosses in Kurzeme, Lithuania.
What to see or do: Get lost in a sea of crosses, each one symbolizing a prayer left by a pilgrim, and take in the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to tie your own cross onto the hill and become a part of the tradition.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as the hill might be steep and uneven.
Remember to be respectful of the site’s spiritual significance.
23. Lielvarde Belt Bridge
The Lielvarde Belt Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Daugava River in Latvia, connecting the towns of Lielvarde and Vangazi.
What to see or do: The bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Daugava River. Visitors can take a stroll on the footpath, admire the architecture of the bridge, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: At night, the bridge is beautifully illuminated with changing colors, providing a magical experience. It is definitely worth witnessing this enchanting sight.
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the early morning or late evening. Also, make sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the serene river and the bridge.
24. Latvian National Opera Riga
The Latvian National Opera in Riga is Latvia’s main opera house, located in the heart of the city center.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of opera and ballet productions throughout the year, ranging from classic favorites to contemporary works.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch one of the stunning performances by the Latvian National Ballet, known for their technical precision and artistic expression.
Insider travel tips: – Book tickets in advance to ensure you get the best seats for a performance.
25. Cathedral of Saint John Riga
The Cathedral of Saint John is an impressive neo-Gothic church located in the heart of Riga, Latvia. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and a major tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral, which features intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and towering spires. The interior is equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, ornate altars, and a massive pipe organ.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this magnificent building.
The tower offers spectacular views of the city, and the crypt contains an exhibition on the cathedral’s long and fascinating history.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting during major religious holidays, as the cathedral can get quite crowded. Be mindful of the dress code and respectful of any ongoing services.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider climbing to the top of the tower for the best views of Riga.
26. Riga Castle
Riga Castle is a historic monument and a former residence of the President of Latvia situated in Riga.
What to see or do: The castle houses the Museum of Latvian History and the Museum of Foreign Art.
The Museum of Latvian History exhibits the country’s history from ancient times to the present day through various collections, while the Museum of Foreign Art showcases art from various countries including the Netherlands, Italy, Russia, and Japan.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the castle’s impressive Knights’ Hall, which is considered one of the most beautiful halls in the Baltic region.
It is known for its intricate ceiling frescoes and elaborately carved wooden interior.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for any special exhibitions or events taking place during your visit.
27. Kipsala Island Riga
A small island located in the city center of Riga, Latvia.
What to see or do: Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views of the Daugava River. Visit the Kipsala International Exhibition Center to attend various exhibitions and events.
Explore the charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets of the island.
Don’t miss: The annual Positivus Festival, which takes place on Kipsala Island every summer and features music performances by popular artists from around the world.
Insider travel tips: Take a ferry from Old Riga to Kipsala Island for a unique and scenic way to reach the island. Visit during the summer months to fully experience the beauty and vibrancy of the island.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the uneven terrain and cobblestone streets.
28. Latgale Cultural and Historical Museum Rēzekne
The Latgale Cultural and Historical Museum is a museum located in the city of Rēzekne, Latvia. It is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Latgale, a region in eastern Latvia.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits related to the history of Latgale, including traditional clothing, crafts, and agricultural tools. There is also a collection of paintings and sculptures by Latvian artists.
The museum frequently hosts cultural events, such as concerts and exhibitions.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibit on the ancient Latgalians, an indigenous tribe that lived in the region over a thousand years ago.
Visitors can see artifacts from the Latgalian culture, including jewelry, weapons, and household objects.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in Latvian, Russian, and English.
29. Cesis Medieval Castle
A medieval castle in the town of Cesis, Latvia, originally built in the early 13th century.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and architecture. Explore the castle grounds, including the inner courtyard, castle tower, and medieval prison.
Visit the museum to see historical artifacts and displays showcasing the castle’s role in Latvian history.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of Cesis and the surrounding countryside from the top of the castle tower.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for climbing the castle tower and walking on uneven castle grounds.
Plan your visit during the summer months to enjoy outdoor events and re-enactments, or during the winter for a festive Christmas market.
Visit nearby Cesis Old Town for charming cafes, restaurants, and picturesque medieval streets.
30. Sculpture Park Jelgava.
Sculpture Park Jelgava is an outdoor exhibition of contemporary and modern art sculptures, located in the eastern part of the city of Jelgava.
What to see or do: Visitors to the park can enjoy more than 60 sculptures made by Latvian and international artists, which are exhibited in a beautifully landscaped environment.
The sculptures vary in style, material, and size, creating an exciting and diverse collection of art.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the impressive work of internationally acclaimed sculptors, as well as the artworks of emerging Latvian artists.
The park’s highlight is the central fountain, surrounded by stunning sculptures.
Insider travel tips: – The park is open year-round, and admission is free.