Latvia Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Riga.

Geography:

Latvia is situated on the Baltic coast and borders Estonia in the north, Lithuania in the south, the Russian Federation in the east and Belarus in the southeast. The country is divided into five broad regions: Riga in the north, Kurzeme and Zemgale in the west and Vidzeme and Latgale in the east.

The country is reasonably flat. A long sandy coastline is backed in places by undulating sand dunes and low sea cliffs. In Latgale, in the east, the landscape is noticeably different with rolling hills and myriad lakes. Wherever you are in Latvia you don't have to travel far to find dense forest. In addition the country boasts about 12,000 rivers. Latvia's longest river, the Daugava runs through Riga. Meanwhile, the Gauja River is at the heart of the country's best-known nature reserve, the Gauja National Park.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Latvia's national carrier is airBaltic (www.airbaltic.com), which runs direct flights to the UK, among other destinations. Other airlines flying non-stop to Latvia from the UK include Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) and the Hungarian company Wizz Air (www.wizzair.com).

The major airport is: Riga International Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

From London - 2 hours 40 minutes; New York - 10 hours (including stopover); Paris - 2 hours 45 minutes; Frankfurt - 2 hours 5 minutes.

Getting There By Road

Entry by car is possible from Russia, Estonia, Belarus or Lithuania. The Via Baltica highway runs through the Baltic countries.

Getting There By Water

Riga is a major Baltic port with a sea link to Stockholm, Sweden. Other ports in Latvia also service water traffic from Germany and Sweden.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Latvia is small enough to get around without the need for domestic flights. There is one domestic route with airBaltic from Riga to Liepaja.

Bike

Riga has a bike-share system operated by Sixt (tel: +371 6767 6780; www.sixtbicycle.lv). The rental scheme offers more than 250 bikes in around two dozen conveniently accessed spots and is available 24/7.

Breakdown Services

LAMB (tel: 1888, in Latvia only; www.lamb.lv) offers free or discounted breakdown cover to cardholders.

Car Hire

Available in all major cities. The minimum age for hiring a car is 21. At the airport in Riga, there are several international car rental companies, including Budget (tel: +371 6720 7327; www.budget.lv) and Europcar (tel: +371 6722 2637; www.europcar.lv).

Documentation

European nationals should be in possession of an EU licence, otherwise an International Driving Permit is required. Third-party insurance is compulsory. Insurance and vehicle registration documents, as well as your licence, should be kept with you when driving.

Getting Around By Rail

Latvia's rail network connects Riga to all other major towns and cities in the country, including Liepaja and Ventspils in the west, Daugavpils in the southeast, Gulbene and Rezekne in the east. The railway terminal in Riga is at Stacijas laukums.

For more information about the train services, including timetables, routes and bookings, contact Pasažieru vilciens (tel: +371 6723 2135; www.pv.lv), or Latvijas dzelzceļš (tel: 8000 1181, in Latvia only or +371 6723 1181; www.ldz.lv).

Regulations

Seat belt use is compulsory in the front and back. Headlights must be used at all times. Unless otherwise indicated, speed limits are 50kph (32mph) in towns and 90kph (56mph) on highways.

The use of mobile telephones while driving is forbidden. Mobile speed traps are common.

Getting Around By Road

The minimum driving age in Latvia is 18, but you must be 21 to hire a car.

Road Classification

Main highways are generally in good condition.

Road Quality

Latvia's road network is reasonably extensive; however, road quality varies considerably from sealed roads to rough tracks strewn with potholes.

Side Of Road

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Taxi

Taxis are plentiful and easy enough to flag down in Riga and other main cities. As anywhere in the world, use licensed taxis and check the meter is running.

Urban Travel

There is a good network of bus, tram and trolleybus routes in Riga (tel: +371 8000 1919; www.rigassatiksme.lv), while buses and a single tramline operate in Liepaja. Tickets can be bought on board from the conductor and should be retained for inspection. Fines for fare dodging are common. E-tickets are also available for purchase through Riga’s transportation website, making your trip more convenient (www.rigassatiksme.lv).

Taksobussi (share-taxis) also operate, but are slightly more expensive than ordinary buses. Regular taxis are privately run and have meters; there is a surcharge at night. There are some trams and trolleybuses running through the night.

Getting Around By Water

Boat hire and tours are possible in some areas, with the most popular being the Gauja River in the Vidzeme province. Raft, canoe and kayak rentals are commonly found near river accommodation.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Latvia set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Latvian Embassy in the UK.

British-Russian dual nationals

If you hold dual nationality with Russia, you could be refused entry to Latvia. See current legal guidance for Russian citizens, which is now in force until 4 March 2025.

Passport validity requirements

Latvia follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must:

• have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago

• have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

 Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Latvia, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Latvia are different.

If you're travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

At Latvian border control, you may need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for a second home
• show proof of your travel insurance, including health cover and medical repatriation
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay – the amount varies depending on your accommodation

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer, you must meet the Latvian government's entry requirements. Check which type of visa you need with the Latvian Embassy in the UK.

If you're in Latvia with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Latvia.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Latvia guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Latvia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Latvia

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.  

Taking money into Latvia

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.   

Restrictions on Russian and Belarusian vehicles

Vehicles with Russian and Belarusian plates and registration are – with a few technical exceptions – banned from entering Latvia and using Latvia's roads.  See Latvia's State Revenue Service and Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information.  

Terrorism 

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.     

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Latvia

Although there's no recent history of terrorism in Latvia, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Belarus border

FCDO currently advises against all travel to Belarus. There is limited access along parts of Latvia's border with Belarus. The Silene-Urbani road border crossing is currently closed. More border checkpoints may close or implement restrictions at short notice. 

Access to within 2km of the border with Belarus is limited. If you wish to enter the border area, you are required to obtain a special licence issued by the Latvian Border Guard. You should abide by this limitation at all times and follow the instructions of Latvian authorities if you are in this area.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Petty crime, particularly bag snatching and pickpocketing, is a greater risk in:

• Riga Old Town
• Central Market
• central train and bus stations

Take extra care in these areas and:

• avoid unlit streets and parks at night
• stay alert if walking alone and be wary of people who approach you
• keep your documents and valuables in hotel safes or somewhere secure

Scams

Some tourists have been charged high prices for drinks or have found fraudulent transactions on their credit and debit cards. You should:

• make sure a transaction on a credit or debit card is completed in your presence
• be wary of attempts to make you re-enter your PIN
• get recommendations for bars and clubs from trustworthy sources

Bank card fraud

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants. Read more about how to avoid bank card fraud.

Drink and food spiking  

There have been instances of drink spiking in Riga and elsewhere in Latvia. Do not leave drinks unattended and be wary of accepting food and drink from strangers in bars, nightclubs and restaurants.  

Theft from vehicles   

Try to use car parks with CCTV. Make sure your vehicle is locked and your belongings are out of sight.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry a copy of your passport's photo page.  

Alcohol laws and bans

Drinking alcohol in public, including in parks and in the streets, is illegal. The police could arrest and fine you.

Illegal drugs

Do not get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Possession of even very small quantities of drugs can lead to large fines or imprisonment.

Public transport

You can get on-the-spot fines for travelling on public transport without a ticket or with an unvalidated ticket. Validate your ticket with the machine as soon as you board the bus or tram.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Latvia. Same-sex unions were legalised in 2023 and will be able to take place from July 2024.

While there are some LGBT+ friendly venues in larger cities, small towns and rural areas can be less accepting of LGBT+ travellers.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Latvia, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC's  Latvia guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You can drive in Latvia with a UK driving licence. If you are living in Latvia, check the driving requirements for residents.

Carry your original vehicle registration documents when travelling to Latvia by car or motorcycle. If you do not have these documents, you will not be allowed to take your vehicle back out of Latvia.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience or a higher minimum age. 

Taxi safety    

To reduce the risk of being charged inflated fares:

• organise a ride with a major taxi company such as Baltic Taxi or Red Cab
• hail or go to a taxi rank to find an official registered vehicle with yellow licence plates
• agree the approximate price of the journey before setting off – some visitors have reported meters being adapted to clock up higher rates

Extreme weather

Winter

Be prepared for extremely cold and possibly hazardous weather if you travel to Latvia in the winter – between October and March. Temperatures may drop to -25°C or below. Snowfalls can result in delays and cancellations on public transport and difficult road conditions. 

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 113 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Latvia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Latvia, including tick bites during the warm season between March and October. Tick bites occasionally carry diseases like encephalitis and Lyme disease.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Latvia

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Latvia where some staff will speak English.

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Latvia, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). 

The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Latvia.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Latvia

Ambulance: 113

Fire: 112

Police: 110

Riga Tourist Police: +371 6718 1818

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Latvia
• dealing with a death in Latvia
• being arrested or imprisoned in Latvia
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Latvia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Diphtheria	Yes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Malaria	No
Rabies	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Typhoid	No

Overview:

Travel insurance is advised for all visitors. In some medical cases, if you are European, you might be able to receive free treatment if you can show proof of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) obtained in your country of origin.

The overall standards of healthcare in Latvia are excellent. Hospitals and surgeries are well equipped and staff are proficient. In pharmacies, over-the-counter advice is given and standard medicines are sold.

Other Risks:

Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.

Currency Information:

In January 2014 Latvia adopted the Euro. 1 Euro (EUR; symbol €) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Credit Cards:

American Express, Diners Club, JCB, MasterCard and Visa are accepted by most hotels, restaurants and shops.

ATMs:

ATMs are available in towns and cities.

Travellers Cheques:

Most retailers in Latvia won’t accept traveller's cheques and banks may charge to cash them.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1700. Some banks are open Sat 0900-1300.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency.

Currency Exchange:

Bureaux de change are found all over main towns, including inside shops, hotels, post offices and train stations. These tend to close at 1900. The most convenient currency to exchange is the US Dollar.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
EUR	€

Exchange Rates

0.71

1.00

1.19

0.96

Language

Latvian is the official language. Russian, English and German are widely spoken. Latvian belongs to the Baltic language group, part of the Indo-European language family. The language has three main dialects, with the Latgallian dialect, spoken in the eastern part of Latvia, especially distinctive.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Easter Monday	2024-04-01 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Declaration of Independence Day	2024-05-04 00:00:00	0
Ligo (Midsummer's Eve)	2024-06-23 00:00:00	0
Jani (St John's Day)	2024-06-24 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-11-18 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0
Boxing Day	2024-12-26 00:00:00	0
New Year's Eve	2024-12-31 00:00:00	0

Overview:

Latvia is within the European Union. If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you are entitled to buy fragrance, skincare, cosmetics, Champagne, wine, selected spirits, fashion accessories, gifts and souvenirs - all at tax-free equivalent prices.

Latvia's duty-free allowance for travellers from EU countries:

If you are over 17 years old, you are free to buy and take goods with you when travelling between EU countries, provided that you have paid tax on these goods and they are for your own use (not for sale). However, if you bring in more than the following, customs officials are likely to question you:

• 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg of tobacco.
• 90L of still wine (60 litres of sparkling wine).
• 110L of beer.
• 10L of alcoholic beverages stronger than 22% or 20L of fortified or sparkling wine or other liqueurs up to 22%.

Beware that each EU country has different rules for travellers under 17 years old. Please check before you travel.

Latvia's duty-free allowance for travellers from non-EU countries:

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into Latvia by travellers with a minimum age of 17 years without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos (max. 3 grams each) or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco (air travellers). 40 cigarettes or 20 cigarillos (max. 3 grams each) or 10 cigars or 50g of tobacco (land and sea travellers). You may combine any of these tobacco products provided you do not exceed the total limit.
• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% volume or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22% volume or a proportional mix of these products provided the limit is not exceeded.
• Other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers and €300 for other travellers (reduced to €150 for children under 15).

.

Banned Imports:

Meat, fish and dairy products from outside the EU, narcotics, counterfeit goods, and unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The import of plants and plant products from outside the EU is restricted and, in some cases, prohibited.

There is a ban on the import of the following goods from the Russian Federation into the EU: diamonds, gold, jewelry, cigarettes, cosmetics, seafood (e.g. caviar), spirits (e.g. vodka), shoes, clothing and smartwatches.

Telephone:

Payphones are operated by phonecards which can be purchased at kiosks, post offices and in some shops.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good. Purchasing a SIM card with a local plan can help avoid expensive roaming charges if you are spending extended time in Latvia.

Internet:

There are many Internet cafes in Riga and some in other towns. Most, if not all, accommodation will provide guests with Wi-Fi access.

Post

Post boxes are yellow. Mail delivery within Europe takes two to seven days, to America and Australia 9 to 13 days. Riga Central Post Officeis located at Stacijas laukums (next to the main railway station), opening hours: Mon-Fri 0700-2100, Sat 0900-2000, Sun 1000-2000.

Post Office Hours:

(General, main) Mon-Fri 0700/0800-1800/1900, Sat 0800-1600.

Media:

Public radio and TV are financed by state subsidies and advertising revenue. The media operate freely, with few legal restrictions on their work. There are laws against libel and incitement of racial hatred.

Daugavpils Mark Rothko Centre

The great 20th century abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko was born in Daugavpils, in southeast Latvia. The Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre, housed in a renovated arsenal building dated 1833, is a multi-functional institution of culture, arts and education. Featuring the main exhibition “Mark Rothko: Life and Art,” the centre houses original Rothko works and shows a digital exposition on the artist’s career. 2013 marked the 110th anniversary of Rothko's birth. (www.rothkocenter.com)

Latvian Song and Dance Festival

Held only once every five years and dating back to 1873, the Latvian Song and Dance Festival is one of the country’s greatest musical and cultural events. Along with the Song and Dance festivals in neighbouring Estonia and Lithuania, this week-long celebration is inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. From vibrant folk costumes to intricate choreography and harmonies, the event combines the talent of some 30,000 dancers, singers, artists and musicians.

Liepaja

Its old town buildings may be a little faded but Liepaja (www.liepaja.lv) still boasts attractive architecture, including many art nouveau buildings. It has the largest concentration of preserved wooden houses in Latvia, some dating back as far as the 17th or 18th centuries. The real highlights, though, are its seaside park and sandy EU Blue Flag beach. In Karosta, a former Russian naval base, you can take a tour of a KGB prison museum (tel: +371 2636 9470; www.karostascietums.lv).

Cēsis

Old wooden buildings, cobbled streets, attractive churches and impressive castles transport you back through layers of history in Cēsis (www.turisms.cesis.lv). One of Latvia's oldest towns, it was first inhabited in the 13th century. Cēsu, one of Latvia’s best-known beers, has been brewed in the well-preserved medieval city since the 16th century. The town even has an annual arts festival that celebrates traditional and contemporary Latvian culture.

Turaida Museum Reserve

One of Latvia's most popular attractions throngs with tourists and Latvian school children who come to ramble around Turaida Castle, one of the country’s most attractive citadels. There are striking views over the Gauja National Park from its ramparts, while the landscaped grounds boast several oversized esoteric sculptures. It was specially commended in the European Museum of the Year Awards in 1996 (tel: +371 6797 2376; www.turaida-muzejs.lv).

Freedom Monument

Not only is this vaulting statue at the heart of Riga, it also commemorates the hardships that Latvian citizens have endured over the years and serves as a poignant symbol of nationhood. That it survived communist rule at all is a miracle. It stands over 42m tall and is topped by the figure of a woman holding three gold stars, symbolizing Latvia’s three cultural regions: Kurzeme, Latgale and Vidzeme.

Riga's art nouveau architecture

Riga boasts one of the finest collections of art nouveau buildings in the world, accounting for around a third of the properties in the city centre. Riga is also famous for its old town, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its attention to detail and push toward modern design, Riga’s art nouveau buildings are an architectural site to behold. Be sure to stroll down Alberta Street and visit Riga’s Art Nouveau Centre (tel: +371 6718 1464; www.jugendstils.riga.lv).

Kuldiga

This attractive town proudly promotes itself as the home of Europe's widest waterfall. While the gushing torrent is impressive when the Venta River runs high, Kuldiga (www.visit.kuldiga.lv) is an attractive historic settlement well worth exploring year-round. The city also hosts a “traditional nude run” every Summer Solstice.

Basilica of Aglona

A place of pilgrimage for Catholics from all over Latvia and beyond, this immense white cathedral near Daugavpils, with its twin spires, is worth visiting even if you are not religious (tel: + 371 2918 8740; www.aglona.travel). To see the basilica at its most atmospheric, visit during the Feast of the Assumption (15 August) when around 150,000 worshippers take part in a torch lit procession celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Cape Kolka

The windswept beach at Cape Kolka, part of the Slītere National Park, is a breathtaking spot where the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga crash together. It’s also a good place for a brisk walk along the shore and a great spot for birdwatching. The skyline features the wooden Kolka Lighthouse, originally set aglow in June 1875 and still luring visitors to the cape today (tel: +371 2914 9105; www.kolkasrags.lv).

Skyline Bar

The chic, 26th-floor Skyline Bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija (tel: +371 6777 2282; www.radissonblu.com) offers epic 360-degree views over Riga. The same dramatic views can even be enjoyed from the toilets. An extensive drinks menu with over 100 cocktails complements the vistas, and weekend DJ performances feature the newest dance music.

Spas in Jūrmala

Spa holidays are all the rage in Latvia, especially in Jūrmala (tel: +371 6714 7900; www.visitjurmala.lv). The ever-growing number of spa hotels in this Baltic resort are backed up by a seemingly endless sandy beach. Indulge in an aromatherapy massage or something a bit more unusual, like a salt chamber.

Hiking in Gauja National Park

Latvia's national parks and protected areas boast myriads of hiking trails. Gauja is the country's biggest and oldest national park, covering an area of nearly 900 sq km (340 sq miles) around the River Gauja. It features caves, rocks and dense woods, and plenty of wildlife. One of the most popular trails is the 5km Līgatne nature trail, where visitors can see many species of wild mammals native to Latvia (tel: +371 2832 8800; www.visitligatne.lv). Visit in spring if you want to see the mass of wild cherry trees blooming along the Gauja River valley. Latvia has four national parks – the others are Ķemeri, Slītere and Rāzna (the country’s newest).

Stay in the land of the Blue Lakes

It’s possible to rent log cabins amidst the Latgale forest, which boasts 2,000 of Latvia’s 3,000 total lakes. Some properties are located next to lakes where the hearty can take a swim, while others have their own saunas. The peaceful retreat of “Laimavoti” – meaning the spring of happiness – offers an intimate look at Latvia’s natural beauty (tel: +371 2755 9999; www.laimavoti.lv). Built on a peninsula and surrounded by Cārmanis lake, the resort sits along the borders of Belarus and Russia.

Watersports on the Gauja River

The winding Gauja River in beautiful Gauja National Park offers plenty of opportunities for watersports, from white-water kayaking to river rafting. Anyone seeking an extended watery adventure can stay at one of the national park's 23 campsites. In the Strenči district of Gauja, Latvians hold an annual Raftsmen Festival that includes two days of rafting and an immersive cultural history of the area. For more information, visit Latvia’s tourism board on water activities (www.latvia.travel).

Fly high in Sigulda

The cable car from Sigulda to Krimulda features a birds-eye view of the Gauja River Gorge. For adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping can be arranged from the cable car when it stops some 42m above the river itself (tel: +371 2838 3333; www.bungee.lv). Krimulda also has a ruined castle and a sprawling landscape that can be absorbed on the seven-minute aerial ride (tel: +371 2802 0088; www.cablecar.lv).

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

Just outside Riga and alongside Lake Jugla is the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia (tel: +317 6799 4106; www.brivdabasmuzejs.lv). Established in 1924, it is one of the oldest and best preserved outdoor museums in Europe. It boasts historical dwellings, workers' homesteads, a tavern and windmills, all gathered from across Latvia. Masters of 18 different crafts demonstrate their work at this artisan community.

Birdwatching in Pape

Latvia's coast, wetlands and traditionally cultivated farmland attract significant populations of interesting and uncommon birds. Pape, near Liepāja along the Kurzeme coast, is on the migration route for seabirds, wildfowl and other species – 200 breeds total. It is also a haven for songbirds and raptors. Cape Kolka is another good spot for birdwatching. Local operators can arrange birdwatching trips upon request. For more information, contact the Latvian Ornithological Society (tel: + 371 6722 1580; www.lob.lv).

Overview

Long associated with the Baltics, Amber (dzintars in Latvian) is of high quality in Latvia and often good value. Other typical souvenirs include folk art, linen, locally made silver, colourful knitwear, wickerwork and ceramics. Latvia’s consumable specialities include beer, Black Balsam, Jāņi cheese, honey and sweets treats such as ‘edible amber’, tinned Riga sprats and locally made chocolates.

Riga is one of the easiest places to find souvenirs and the main market, held inside old zeppelin hangers, is well worth a visit. Sigulda and the surrounding area is good for finding woodwork, while in Cēsis visitors should drop by the Smithy of Ancient Jewellery that sells traditional Latvian jewellery.

The Latgale region in the southeast of the country has a long tradition of pottery making. As well as the wonderful main market, there are several large shopping centres in Riga, including Galerija Centrs, Origo and craft fairs at the Open-Air Ethnographical Museum.

Passengers flying to a country outside the EU can claim a tax refund at the airport. Only shops displaying 'Tax-Free' stickers participate in the scheme. These will (if asked) give you a Global Refund cheque. A minimum spend in any one shop in a single day is required. In addition, you need to keep the original receipt and goods should be unopened.

Opening Hours

Opening hours are typically Mon-Fri 0900/1000-1800/1900 and Sat 0900/1000-1600/1700. Some smaller shops may close for an hour or two between 1200 and 1500 for lunch. Food shops tend to open Mon-Sat 0800/0900-2000/2100. Some shops are open 24 hours.

Overview

Influenced by food from surrounding countries, Latvian cuisine is largely based upon meat and locally available crops. Dishes tend to be hearty and filling – which helps when the thermometer plummets. Red meat is a mainstay on menus, and it comes served as mouth-watering patties, fried in breadcrumbs or in warming stews.

Along the coast, fish forms a bigger part of the diet – smoked fish is a speciality. Herring is often pickled and served cold. Potatoes (particularly potato salad), sauerkraut and other vegetables are traditional accompaniments. There are a number of very tasty, distinctive soups. Many of the ingredients are seasonal – with mushrooms, berries, nettles and the like being picked at certain times of the year.

International restaurants abound in Riga. Every May, the city hosts a Spring Restaurant Week that offers plenty of opportunities to try Latvian cuisine. Meals are typically filling and often washed down with Latvian beer or strong liquor. There are also some wonderful fruit juices made from wild berries. One of the best places to get an appreciation of local ingredients is the massive and colourful central market in Riga, housed in several former zeppelin hangers.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Restaurant bills usually include a tip. It is customary to give a little extra for good service.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

The standard of hotel accommodation in Latvia is generally high, with major international chains, boutique properties, spa hotels and family run businesses all part of the mix. Riga has the broadest range of hotel accommodation.

Grading: There is the Hotelstars Union grading system from 1 to 5 stars. 

Camping Caravaning

Many campsites benefit from picturesque locations and often provide spaces for caravans. Some even have huts that can be slept in. Many campsites have undergone official inspections and are categorised I-III. For more details, contact the Latvian Camping Association or the tourist office (tel: +371 2200 8808; www.camping.lv).

Other

History

Latvia has, like neighbouring Estonia and Lithuania, been an important trading centre and strategic pawn in the Baltic region. The various Latvian tribes were self-governing until the end of the 13th century when Teutonic knights conquered the territory. Latvia was then subject to sporadic invasions by the Poles and the Swedes until the 18th century when Russia, under Peter the Great, emerged as a major European power.

The entire territory of modern Latvia was under Russian control from 1795 until 1918, when the Latvian National Council proclaimed it a free state. That freedom didn’t last long though, and in 1940 the country was invaded by the Soviets. Nazi forces displaced them the following year before the Red Army invaded once again in 1944 when Latvia was incorporated into the Soviet Union.

Protests against Soviet control and the campaign for democracy and independence began in 1986 and gathered pace with the formation of the Popular Front of Latvia in 1988. The Latvian parliament declared independence on 4 May 1990, a day still marked as a national holiday. Full independence was finally achieved following a referendum in 1991, with Latvia being admitted into the UN in September 1991.

Latvia joined NATO in 2004 and was admitted into the EU – along with nine other states, including Estonia and Lithuania – later the same year. The Lat, Latvia’s currency since 1993, was then replaced by the Euro in January 2014.

The suppression of the Latvian language and culture during the Soviet era has left a legacy of hostility – in some areas the ethnic Russian minority are subject to discrimination and, although there has been no serious conflict between the communities, it remains a delicate issue.

The capital, Riga, was founded as a trading post in 1201 and has preserved many aspects of its long history, with architectural styles spanning eight centuries and a historic old town that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Riga was named European Capital of Culture in 2014 and remains an enticing destination for tourists.

Religion

Majority Lutheran and Catholic, with a sizeable Russian Orthodox minority.

Social Conventions

Handshaking is customary when meeting someone for the first time. Latvians can be reserved and formal, but nevertheless very hospitable. They can also be quite direct, but do not generally mean to cause offence. Latvians are proud of their culture, and visitors should respect this strong sense of national identity.

Best Time To Visit:

To the west, the Latvian coast benefits from a maritime climate, while the hinterland in the east has a continental climate. Between June and September, days are pleasantly warm and often sunny. Winters are long and harsh, with temperatures in Riga rarely rising above freezing between December and March. Even in April they can be as low as 5ºC. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year with the heaviest rainfall in August. Snowfall is common in the winter months.

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Required Clothing

Light to medium weight clothes are worn during summer months. Medium to heavyweight clothes are needed during spring and autumn, and heavyweights for the bitterly cold winter. Rainwear is advisable all year.

Dialing Code:

+371

Area(sq km):

64,589 sq km (24,938 sq miles)

Population:

1.886.198

Population Density(per sq km):

30 per sq km (77 people/sq mile)

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

Yes

Main emergency number

112