Top 3 cities in Latvia
The most beautiful cities in Latvia
Latvia, the middle country of the three Baltic states, is a true travel insider tip. The country impresses with dynamic cities, magnificent Art Nouveau buildings, and cobblestone streets.
Beyond the cities, relaxation awaits, for example, in the famous seaside resorts along the Baltic coast. Here, you can enjoy endless sandy beaches, soothing spa facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
For history and nature lovers, Latvia also offers plenty of opportunities. Visit medieval castles, explore the impressive national park landscapes, or discover the ruins of the fortification in Liepāja.
In this post, we present to you our top 3 most beautiful places with the best attractions in Latvia.
Interesting facts about Latvia
- Latvia, together with Lithuania and Estonia, forms the Baltic states. Latvia is the middle of the three Baltic states.
- Official language: Latvian
- From Cape Kolka, the northernmost point of the Kurzeme Peninsula, one can observe both sunrise and sunset. The cape is surrounded by the Slītere National Park, which is also worth a visit.
- The Baroque Rundāle Palace in Latvia is referred to as the Versailles of the Baltics because of its impressive park.
- The southeastern part of Latvia is the region of Latgale, known for its picturesque lakes.
- The Ventas Rumba waterfall near Kuldīga is twice as wide as the famous Rhine Falls in Switzerland.
Top 3 cities in Latvia
Riga
The Latvian capital, Riga, is located on the Gulf of Riga at the mouth of the Daugava River into the Baltic Sea. The landscape around the largest city in the Baltics is characterized by idyllic lakes, streams, marshes, and swamps.
The calm, nature-close atmosphere around Riga can be particularly well enjoyed in the Ķemeri National Park. The national park impresses with its seemingly endless swamp landscapes and lagoon lakes. It is home to various protected animal and plant species. Therefore, tourists should only explore it on the designated hiking trails.
The city of Riga itself is anything but sleepy. Those who want to experience the urban life of Riga can start, for example, on the picturesque Alberta Iela. This street in the center of Riga is particularly known for its Art Nouveau buildings. Other places in the city you should explore include the Town Hall Square with the House of the Blackheads and the Old Town of Riga, where you can find, among other things, St. Peter's Church.
Near Riga, the Baltic Sea with its calm shores invites you to swim. Ideal for water enthusiasts is the seaside resort of Jūrmala. In Jūrmala, you can not only relax on the beach and swim in the Baltic Sea but also enjoy the numerous attractions and water slides of the Līvu Akvaparks.
Summary: Riga is one of the most dynamic cities in the Baltics. The Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to numerous historical buildings and attractions. Outside the city, pristine nature awaits in the form of Ķemeri National Park and the Baltic coast.
Liepāja
The port city of Liepāja is an ideal destination for a beach holiday on the Baltic Sea. The white sandy beach and the 3-kilometer-long beach park offer a relaxing, nature-close atmosphere for walkers, swimmers, and sun worshippers.
But there's more to discover along the coast around Liepāja. In the district of Karosta, along the coastline, you can see the impressive remains of the city's former fortification. The fortress was destroyed in 1908 through controlled explosions as it was seen as a strategic error. What remains of the fortress ruins is gradually being reclaimed by nature – a spectacular sight.
Another place where the wild nature of the coast and human architectural craftsmanship meet is the North Pier with its countless tetrapods. It was also part of the fortification built at the end of the 19th century. The North Pier is a whole 1.8 kilometers long and, according to insiders, offers the best view of the sunset over the Baltic Sea.
Liepāja also has architectural attractions to offer. The Cathedral of Karosta (also known as St. Nicholas Cathedral) is an impressive example of neo-Russian architecture. Lovers of contemporary architecture will enjoy a visit to the Great Amber (Lielais Dzintars): The concert hall fully lives up to its nickname "Great Amber" with its golden-yellow glass facade.
Summary: Liepāja combines the greatest advantages of the Latvian Baltic coast in one place. Here, you can relax on the beach, explore the city's attractions, or discover the impressive power of nature.
Sigulda
Sigulda is located on the Gauja River, in close proximity to the Gauja National Park. Due to the picturesque, mountainous landscape in the Gauja Valley, Sigulda is also known as the Swiss of Latvia.
The Gauja National Park is the largest of the four national parks in Latvia. It impresses with its forested landscape and rugged sandstone cliffs. One of the most famous natural attractions in the Gauja National Park is the Gutman's Cave. The cave plays an important role in several legends, such as the story of the Rose of Turaida. Moreover, the spring in Gutman's Cave is said to have magical powers.
In the area around the Gauja National Park, you can also find a zoo and the Vienkoči Park. The Vienkoči Park is a sculpture park that spreads over 9 hectares in the forest. Walkers and hikers can discover numerous wooden and metal sculptures among the trees.
In the Turaida district of Sigulda is the medieval Turaida Castle. Here, visitors can not only enjoy the view over the national park but also learn more about the historical background of the region.
Summary: Sigulda, the Swiss of Latvia, captivates you with its picturesque landscape. The adjacent Gauja National Park offers a unique insight into Latvian nature.
Conclusion: Beautiful Latvia
Latvia enchants with breathtaking landscapes and rich history. From the vibrant capital city, Riga, to picturesque coastal towns and medieval villages, Latvia offers a variety of options for an unforgettable holiday.
Has the travel bug bitten you, and do you want to experience Latvia for yourself?
► Here, you can find more information about the toll regulations in Latvia to be optimally prepared for your trip.