1 / 121. Roam around Riga Old Town’s medieval charm | Start your Latvian journey in the centre of the city, Riga Old Town, which is characterised by its labyrinthine cobblestone streets, ancient guild buildings, cathedrals, and the timeless Old Town atmosphere. The old district, at the heart of European history for centuries, is still one of the most powerful places to experience Latvia. (Image: Canva)
2 / 122. Explore nature and folklore in Gauja National Park — Latvia’s “mini-Alps” | Gauja National Park, also known as Latvia’s “Alps,” is a short drive from Riga and offers verdant forests, hilly terrain, and the winding Gauja River. You may get up close and personal with nature at its most serene and magnificent by hiking, riding, or simply exploring. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
3 / 123. Enjoy sea breeze at Jurmala beach resort | Jurmala offers one of Latvia’s most serene beachside activities for people seeking a tranquil summer getaway. Jurmala, which is only a short train trip from Riga, has spa resorts, leisurely walks, extensive soft-sand beaches surrounded by pine trees, and the sound of the sea. (Image: Shutterstock)
4 / 124. Visit the aristocratic Rundale Palace and its gardens | The majestic Rundale Palace, located about 37 miles (60 km) south of Riga, was built as a great palace for the Duke of Courland and is a testament to the luxuries of the 18th century. Often referred to as the “Versailles of the Baltics,” Rundale Palace dazzles with its elaborate chambers and expansive, well-kept gardens. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
5 / 125. Explore Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia | This outdoor museum, located outside of Riga, features historic homesteads, windmills, and rural wooden houses from all around Latvia, offering a dramatic glimpse into rural life in bygone eras. Away from the bustling city life, it is a calm, engaging approach to learning about local history, culture, and architecture. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
6 / 126. Discover hidden gems like Kuldiga or Liepaja | Visit Liepaja, a seaside city that combines sandy beaches, Baltic-sea breezes, and cultural rhythm, or Kuldiga, which is renowned for its charming ancient alleys and the broad, soothing Venta Rapid waterfall. Both offer a laid-back view of Latvian life and scenery outside of Riga. (Image: Canva)
7 / 127. Explore Kemeri National Park and coastal nature | Kemeri National Park, just west of Riga, offers a new sort of environment with wetlands, bogs, swamp-forest paths, and serene seaside landscapes. It is perfect for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and tourists who want to take a peaceful, atmospheric stroll away from crowds. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
8 / 128. Explore Sigulda’s history | Sigulda, tucked away in the Gauja valley, offers a blend of medieval history, wooded landscape, and a little excitement, including hiking, views of the river valley, castle remnants, and a cable car trip across the river canyon. One may also explore the neighbouring Gutman’s Cave, a historical and natural site. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
9 / 129. Visit Peter’s Market to experience local life | Since the middle of the 17th century, vendors in Liepaja have exhibited their products in Peter’s Market. The market grew in 1910 when an Art Nouveau pavilion was built next to the square. These days, there are booths both inside and outside that offer everything from baked delicacies and fresh, locally grown fruit to exquisite handicrafts and second-hand clothing. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
10 / 1210. Explore Cesis and its historic castle | Enjoy the splendour of the intriguing castle ruins, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved houses in Cesis. Visiting Cesis Castle and exploring its ancient towers and dungeons with a light is an amazing activity in Latvia. The town’s artistic attractions, quaint eateries, and lovely parks add to its allure and make it a fantastic destination for explorers. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
11 / 1211. Enjoy Latvian cuisine | Tasting the local cuisine is one of the best things to do in Latvia. Sample basics like sklandrausis, bacon, smoked meats, rye bread, and grey peas. You can get traditional cuisine that reflects Latvia’s culture wherever you go to eat. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
12 / 1212. Attend traditional Latvian festival | One of the most interesting things to do in Latvia is to take in the vibrant festivals like Jaʻi or the famous Song and Dance Festival. Interact with residents, extend a kind greeting, and discover Latvia’s distinctive customs. People gather for celebrations by dressing up, dancing, building bonfires and listening to folk music. (Image: Reuters)
