2026 Latvia Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

When winter wraps its snowy blanket around Latvia, the whole country transforms into a real-life winter wonderland ✨. From the cobblestone streets of Riga’s Old Town to the frozen forests and lakes of Gauja National Park, this Baltic gem sparkles with frosty magic, cozy traditions, and warm-hearted charm ❤️. And the best part is - it doesn't break a bank. 🏰 Riga – The Beating Heart of Winter: The capital city Riga looks like it jumped out of a Christmas postcard 🎄. Wander through its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where fairy lights, gingerbread scents, and Christmas markets fill the air. Sip on hot mulled wine, admire the Art Nouveau architecture, and don’t miss Doma Square’s Christmas Market, one of the most enchanting in Europe 🎁✨. 🌲 Nature in Its Purest Form: Latvia’s countryside is breathtaking in winter! Glide through snowy pine forests on cross-country skis, visit the frozen waterfalls of Sigulda, or relax in a steamy sauna before jumping into an icy lake — a true Latvian winter tradition 🧖♀️. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing over the Baltic sky 🌌. ☃️ Weather & Travel Tips: Temperature: Expect -5°C to -20°C, with plenty of snow and crisp air ❄️ What to wear: Bundle up! Think layers, wool socks, and a good pair of winter boots 🧣🧤 Best winter activities: Skiing, skating, sleigh rides, sauna rituals, and cozy nights by the fireplace 🔥 🚆 Easy to Reach: Fly into Riga International Airport (RIX) — the largest in the Baltics — and you’re already minutes away from the city center! From there, day trips to Jurmala, Sigulda, or Cēsis make exploring Latvia easy and unforgettable 🚗🌨️. Latvia in winter isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience for the senses: the crunch of snow under your feet, the warmth of spiced wine, and the glow of lights reflected on ancient walls 💫. Come for the chill, stay for the charm ❤️🇱🇻 #travel #latvianature #wintergetaway

Latvia, a small country in northeastern Europe, is rich in history, nature, and profound culture. If you're looking for a unique destination, Latvia is the answer! ✨ 🏛️ House of the Black Heads – This magnificent Gothic architecture in the heart of Riga, built in the 14th century as a meeting place for merchants, is now a landmark that offers stunning photos from every angle, especially at night when the building's lights illuminate the building, making it look like something out of a fairy tale. ⛪ St. Peter's Church – The oldest church with the tallest tower in Riga. Take the elevator to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of the old town. It's worth every step! 🗽 The Freedom Monument – ​​Latvians are proud to be a monument of freedom, located in the heart of the city. It symbolizes the struggle for freedom from foreign rule. Surrounded by parks and a peaceful atmosphere, it's perfect for strolling and taking photos. 🌲 Gauja National Park – The largest national park in Latvia. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and ancient castles, such as Turaida Castle, perched on a hill, the views are breathtaking, perfect for nature lovers and history lovers. 🏖️ Jurmala Beach – Over 30 kilometers of white sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea, with cool, refreshing waters and Art Nouveau-style wooden houses lining the beach. Perfect for a relaxing summer getaway or a stroll in the autumn sea breeze. 🔭 Latvian Academy of Sciences Observation Deck – This Soviet-style skyscraper offers panoramic views of Riga, offering a unique perspective of the Daugava River and the Old Town. It's a truly romantic spot for sunsets. Latvia is a country of peace, beauty, and depth in every aspect, from its architecture, nature, and warm people. It's an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Europe from a different perspective. 🌍 #LatviaTravel #TravelLatvia #RigaCity #BalticBeauty #JurmalaBeach #GaujaNationalPark #EuropeHiddenGem #TravelAbroad

#Travel tips for overseas Poland is an Eastern European country facing the Baltic Sea, known for its medieval architecture and Jewish heritage The three Baltic states are the three countries that line the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, south of Finland, from north to south In VOL.2, we will introduce how we traveled from Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, to Kaunas and toured Riga, Latvia This is a record of the eight days from leaving Japan to returning home °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Travel itinerary 🔸Day 4 8:30 Travel by bus to Kaunas, about 105km, about 1.5 hours🚌 10:00 Arrive in Kaunas Start sightseeing in the city, including Kaunas St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Kaunas Castle, Chiune Sugihara Memorial Hall, etc. 12:00 Lunch 13:00 Travel by bus to Siauliai, approx. 145km, approx. 2.5 hours🚌 15:30 Arrive at the Holy Land, Hill of Crosses 16:30 Travel by bus to Riga, the capital of Latvia, approx. 130km, approx. 2.5 hours🚌 19:00 Arrive at Bellevue Park Hotel Riga ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 5 8:30 Start sightseeing in the World Heritage Site, Riga Historic District Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) buildings St. Peter's Church, Blackhead Hall, Riga Castle, Cat House, Three Brothers, etc. Stroll around the Old Town 13:00 Lunch 16:00 Take the tram to the hotel (approximately 10 minutes) 19:00 Dinner °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Estonia You may be asked to show proof of overseas travel insurance when entering the country 🔹Estonia, Latvia When entering the country, you will need to purchase overseas travel insurance (with medical and relief coverage of 30,000 euros or more) to cover the duration of your stay 🔹Lithuania You may be asked to show proof of overseas travel insurance when entering the country Securities The following information must be written in Lithuanian, English, German, French, or Russian ◼︎Cover the duration of your stay in Lithuania ◼︎Lithuania must be included in the insurance coverage area ◼︎Contact information and contract number of the insurance company ◼︎Amount of coverage: Minimum 5,795 euros per person ◼︎Includes medical services, including emergency transportation Information current as of July 2024 For more information, please check the website of the embassy of each country #overseastravel #lithuania #latvia #worldheritage #oldtownofriga

It was a trip to Latvia during the weekend. Upon arrival we explored around the Old Town Riga (Vecrīga).The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. I would recommend you to visit house of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church. 📍Riga, Latvia We then walked around the Art Nouveau District. Riga boasts one of the world's largest collections of Art Nouveau buildings. If you only have limited time. The “must see” one would be Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela. We also visited the famous restaurant, Vincents. A fine dining with a modern twist on Latvian cuisine. We had the Tasting menu, featuring local and seasonal ingredients. I just love it so much 😍😍😍 💰€50-100 per person 📍 Elizabetes iela 19, Riga, LV-1010, Latvia We also visited the Sigulda Medieval Castle. It was built in the early 13th century, the castle offers a glimpse into medieval Latvian history. 📍Address: Pils iela 18, Sigulda, LV-2150, Latvia We also spend sometimes to explore around the Gauja National Park. If you are there, you can do activities like hiking, exploring Gutmanis Cave and Bobsleigh track. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📍Sigulda, Latvia We also explored the Cēsis Castle. A well-preserved medieval castle dating back to the 13th century 🏰 📍Pils iela 9, Cēsis, LV-4101, Latvia If you have extra time, I would the you to visit Hotel Cēsis Restaurant. It is a traditional Latvian and European cuisine. We ordered the Latvian pork ribs, Cabbage rolls which were very delicious ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💰€15-25 per person 📍Vienības laukums 1, Cēsis, LV-4101, Latvia We also walked around Cēsis Old Town. Walking through the historic streets, visiting St. John’s Church. 📍CCēsis, Latvia #weekendgetaways #trip #vacation

Let me start by just saying : wow ! What a beating town. Riga is a small town and it’s possible to just keep on walking all day long and just stop and watch all the beautiful building all day long! If you get cold you can stop and have a glas of Balsam - the local drink from Latvia. If will make you warm in no time ! They have many cozy pubs and restaurants- and the price is great. For under 20euro you can have a drink and food for the night. We choose to do a free walking tour and on the tour we learn so much about the city. For example the story about the cat in the roof and why it’s facing the Opera. Make sure to put Riga on your next weekend trip away.

📍 Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050 There are many tourist attractions in Riga, the capital of Latvia. One of them is the Riga Central Market, where you can see the locals up close. People usually think that prices in Europe are too expensive, but if you shop at a market like this, you can shop at cheaper prices than in Korea! It's a place where you can have a unique experience and get closer to the locals, so if you're planning a trip to Latvia, be sure to stop by➿🫶 #EuropeanTravel #Latvia #Riga #HotPlace

Latvia is next to Estonia and can be reached by international bus. The most famous attraction in Latvia is the House of Three Brothers. The three rooms are connected but were built in different eras, thus displaying the architectural features of three eras.

Located in Riga, Latvia, the Freedom Monument was built to commemorate the soldiers killed during the Latvian War of Independence (1918-1920) and is an important symbol of Latvia's freedom, independence and sovereignty. Its amazing all over the place.

## In this country that means armor, the owners of two SummerHouse and Bungalow have their own planes and yachts. He drove to Sweden last night and deliberately asked me to put the pine cones and wood in the fireplace to heat the house. Lying on the sofa in front of the fireplace is really comfortable! Ps

Ready to explore the best of winter Europe? Cadiz, Riga, and Belfast are taking the chill vibes to another level 🌨️❄️ From snow-dusted castles to epic sightseeing, this trip is proof you don’t need summer to have an amazing adventure! Must-See Places: Riga: My top pick—Riga Free Tours! Not only is Riga just incredible, the free tour (Reformācijas Laukums, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050) lets you dive into hidden corners, quirky local stories, and jaw-dropping architecture. Pro tip: Bundle up for those outdoor walks, especially if you catch the city dressed in snow—it seriously looks like a real-life fairy tale. Belfast: The Lagan Weir and Lookout (1 Donegall Quay, Opposite the Custom House, Belfast BT1 3EA) is open all day, all year. Get out there for a riverside stroll and crazy good views, especially impressive with winter clouds rolling by. It’s the perfect spot for photos of Western-style architecture and Belfast’s modern vibe. Travel Tips: Getting Around: Both Riga and Belfast have solid public transport. In Riga, use trams for easy castle-to-city trips. In Belfast, the Metro buses are reliable and cheap—plus, you can walk pretty much everywhere in the city center. Food: Warm up with hearty Latvian soup at a spot near Reformācijas Laukums or grab a coffee in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter for max cosiness. Key Advice: For snow season, layer up! Waterproof shoes are a game changer on those slushy streets. Both cities are walkable, but a local umbrella in Belfast never hurts thanks to surprise rain. This route is a dream for winter travelers craving culture, scenery, and some seriously cool city energy! #LatviaWinter #RigaGems #BelfastViews #SnowyEurope #tripdotcom #europetrip #travel2026 #travel #thingstodo

🇱🇻 Latvia Latvia is a charming Baltic country where medieval history meets untouched nature. It’s known for its beautiful old towns, forests, lakes, and calm seaside vibe. Top highlights: Riga Old Town 🏰 – UNESCO-listed, famous for cobblestone streets and stunning Art Nouveau buildings Jūrmala 🌊 – A peaceful beach town with white sand and wooden villas Gauja National Park 🌲 – Castles, caves, rivers, and hiking trails Cēsis Castle ⚔️ – One of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltics Why visit? Affordable travel, fewer crowds, rich culture, and beautiful seasonal landscapes — especially magical in autumn and winter ❄️🍂 Perfect for travelers who love history, nature, and quiet European charm.

#hellohalloween There’s nothing like wandering Riga’s streets on foot to feel the city’s rhythm. I started in the Old Town, weaving through cobblestone alleys, past colorful houses and hidden courtyards. Each turn revealed tiny cafés, street musicians, and quiet corners where time seemed to slow. ☕🎶 Crossing the Daugava Riverside, I paused to watch boats drift by and admire the city skyline, with Gothic spires and Art Nouveau façades blending seamlessly. Along Alberta iela, the intricate balconies and flowing designs told stories of Riga’s creative past. 🌸🏛️ Even a casual walk became an adventure, from discovering murals in side streets to pausing at Bastejkalna Park for a moment of calm. Riga’s charm is in its layers — every alley and riverside path holds a story waiting to be noticed. ✨ 📍 Route suggestion: Old Town → Daugava Riverside → Alberta iela → Bastejkalna Park 🕒 Best time: Morning or late afternoon for gentle light and fewer crowds

#hellohalloween Riga’s charm unfolds quickly if you know where to wander. Start your morning in the Old Town, exploring cobblestone alleys, Dome Square, and the House of the Blackheads, letting the Gothic spires and pastel facades set the scene. ☕🏰 By midday, stroll along the Daugava Riverside, watching boats drift by and snapping panoramic shots from the Stone Bridge. Grab lunch at a riverside café, then head to Alberta iela to admire Riga’s iconic Art Nouveau buildings. 🖼️🌿 In the afternoon, catch the city from above — St. Peter’s Church Tower or the Latvian Academy of Sciences offer sweeping views of rooftops, spires, and the river. Wrap up your day with a quiet walk through street art alleys or enjoy a sunset stroll in Bastejkalna Park, where fountains, sculptures, and greenery make a serene end to a bustling day. 🌅 📍 Highlights: Old Town, Daugava Riverside, Alberta iela, St. Peter’s Tower, Bastejkalna Park 🕒 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes — Riga’s charm is best discovered on foot!

#hellohalloween Riga’s beauty isn’t just in its skyline — it’s in the details. Every street feels like a walk through time, where Gothic spires, Art Nouveau curves, and wooden houses all share the same breath. 💛 The Old Town charms with medieval brickwork and winding alleys, while Alberta iela showcases some of Europe’s finest Art Nouveau façades — all flowing lines, carved faces, and floral motifs that seem to move with the light. Further out, bold Soviet-era blocks stand beside sleek modern glass towers, creating a contrast that’s uniquely Riga. I loved how the city never felt static — each corner revealed another layer of its story. From the Dome Cathedral’s timeless grace to ornate balconies and pastel courtyards, Riga’s architecture feels both grand and deeply personal. ✨ 📍 Don’t miss: Alberta iela, Dome Square, the House of the Blackheads, and the Central Market area for a mix of old and new

#hellohalloween Wandering through Riga’s Old Town alleys feels like slipping into another century. Narrow cobblestone lanes twist between colorful facades, tiny cafés hide behind ivy-covered doors, and every turn reveals another story waiting to be found. 🌿☕ I loved getting lost here — tracing the sunlight as it moved between pastel houses and Gothic archways, hearing distant street music echo off the walls. Some alleys, like Rozena iela, are so narrow you can touch both sides at once, while others open up to quiet courtyards filled with flowers and art. 🎨 There’s a special calm to these streets, especially in the early morning before the shops open. The smell of fresh pastries drifts from bakeries, the bells ring softly — and for a moment, Riga feels yours alone. 💛 📍 Where: Around Rozena iela, Kaleju iela, and the streets near Dome Square 🕒 Best time: Morning or golden hour — perfect for slow walks and photography

#hellohalloween Riga’s skyline is instantly recognizable — a dance of elegant church towers reaching toward the sky, each with its own story and melody of bells. Walking through the Old Town, it’s impossible not to look up. The St. Peter’s Church Tower, tall and graceful, offers a sweeping view across red rooftops and the Daugava River. 🌇 Then there’s the Dome Cathedral, Riga’s heart and pride, its copper spire gleaming above centuries of history. Nearby, St. John’s and St. Jacob’s churches add Gothic whispers to the cityscape — smaller, but full of soul and detail. I loved how every tower seemed to appear between narrow cobblestone streets, surprising you around each corner. Standing beneath them at dusk, as bells rang through the golden light, felt like stepping into a timeless postcard. 💛 📍 Where: Riga Old Town – St. Peter’s, Dome Cathedral, St. John’s, and St. Jacob’s Church 🕒 Best time: Early morning or sunset for the most magical views and quiet moments

#hellohalloween The Daugava River gives Riga its rhythm — wide, calm, and reflective. Walking along the riverside promenade, you feel the city breathe differently here. Locals jog, couples share ice cream, and the soft sound of water mingles with distant church bells. 💙 From the Stone Bridge, you get an incredible view of the Old Town’s skyline — spires rising above pastel façades, with the golden evening light painting everything in warmth. It’s one of those spots where you just stop and take it all in, watching boats drift by and the city slow down. I loved sitting on a bench near AB Dam, camera in hand, as the sun dipped behind Riga’s rooftops. The reflections on the Daugava were pure magic — a quiet contrast to the bustling old streets just a few steps away. 📍 Where: Daugava Riverside Promenade, AB Dam, Stone Bridge area 🕒 Best time: Sunset or early morning for peaceful walks and golden views

Latvia, one of the three Baltic states, is a small but charming country. Its capital, Riga, is particularly famous for its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval streets, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and colorful buildings captivate your eyes as you stroll through the city. 🏘️✨ At the Riga Central Market, you can witness local life up close and savor seafood caught in the Baltic Sea and Latvian specialties. 🐟🥖 Moreover, just outside the city, nature abounds. Forests and castle towns like Sigulda offer opportunities for trekking and exploring castle ruins. 🌲🏰 #SeptemberTravelSupport #LatviaTravel

#mytraveldiary Ķemeru Purva Taka is a peaceful and scenic trail in the heart of Ķemeri National Park. Walking along the wooden boardwalks, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, unique bog landscapes, and a variety of birds and wildlife. The trail is easy to follow, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family outing. Informational signs along the way give insight into the fascinating ecosystem and the importance of preserving this natural habitat. The fresh air and quiet surroundings make it a refreshing escape from city life. Located in Ķemeri, Jūrmala, Latvia, this trail offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy stunning bog landscapes, and experience the serene beauty of Latvia’s protected wetlands.

REVIEW OF LATVIA TRAVEL BY YOURSELF] I went to Riga for 3 days and 2 nights. Latvia is small, quiet, the old town of Riga is recognized by UNESCO with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. PREPARATION BEFORE THE TRIP • Schengen Visa. • Airfare: Hanoi - Riga (transit via Frankfurt or Warsaw). • European Sim. TRAVEL • Riga is mainly for walking, the city is compact. • There are trams/buses if you go further. ENTERTAINMENT PLACES • Old Town Riga: Doma Square, House of the Blackheads. Riga TV Tower. • Bastejkalna Park. • Beautiful along the Daugava River. DINING • Latvian black bread. • Smoked herring. • Beetroot soup. • Latvian beer is pretty good. #mytripvlog

#mytraveldiary I just stood on the edge of the Veczemju Cliffs—dramatic, sandy precipices towering over the Baltic Sea, where wind, water, and time have carved a landscape of raw beauty. It was the perfect solo escape for hikers, photographers, and anyone craving solitude and nature’s power. What Makes Veczemju Cliffs Special? · Stunning Height: Some sections reach up to 20 meters (65 feet), offering sweeping views of the sea. · Unique Geology: Layers of sandstone, clay, and ancient fossils tell a story thousands of years old. · Secluded Vibe: Far from crowds — you’ll often have the entire cliff area to yourself. · Sunset Magic: The evening light here is breathtaking — skies often glow in shades of pink and gold. Why Veczemju Cliffs for Solo Travelers? · Safe & Accessible: Well-marked trails and viewpoints — but caution is needed near the edge. · Ideal for Reflection: Powerful waves, wind, and wide-open spaces create a meditative atmosphere. · Photographer’s Dream: Ever-changing light, textures, and seascapes offer endless creative inspiration. · Combine with Beach Walks: The cliffs overlook a quiet sandy beach — perfect for exploring. --- My Solo Itinerary Morning: Journey to the Coast · Drove or took a bus from Riga to Jūrkalne (approx. 2 hours). · Parked near the Jūrkalne Coastal Trail and walked toward the cliffs (follow signs for “Veczemju Kraujas”). · Started with the viewing platforms — safe spots for photos and taking in the panorama. Afternoon: Cliff Walk and Beach Time · Hiked along the cliff edge (stay back from unstable sections!) — felt the wind and heard the crash of waves below. · Descended to the beach via designated paths — walked barefoot on the sand and hunted for amber or unique stones. · Picnicked on the beach — packed local Latvian rye bread, cheese, and apples. Evening: Sunset and Return · Returned to the cliff tops for sunset — the colors over the Baltic are unforgettable. · Drove back or stayed overnight in a guesthouse in Jūrkalne or Pavilosta. · If staying, joined locals for a fresh seafood dinner — try smoked fish or fish soup. --- Solo Traveler Tips 1. Wear Sturdy Shoes: Cliffs paths can be sandy, slippery, or uneven. 2. Check Tide Times: Low tide is best for beach exploration. 3. Respect Barriers: Some areas are eroding — stay behind safety fences. 4. Pack Windproof Gear: The Baltic coast is often windy — bring a jacket and hat. --- Final Thoughts Veczemju Cliffs moved me in a way few places have. Standing there alone, with the wind in my hair and the endless sea before me, I felt both small and deeply connected to the earth. For solo travelers seeking raw nature, quiet moments, and a touch of adventure, this hidden gem is a must-visit. #SoloTravel #VeczemjuCliffs

#holidayitinerary Sigulda, located in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, is a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. Nestled in the Gauja River Valley, the town is often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” thanks to its rolling hills and lush forests. Sigulda Castle and the medieval Turaida Castle offer fascinating glimpses into the region’s past along with panoramic views of the valley. For thrill seekers, the area is famous for activities like bobsledding, ziplining, and hiking along scenic trails that wind through caves and riverbanks. The Gauja National Park surrounding the town is perfect for a relaxing day in nature, whether you enjoy cycling, kayaking, or simply strolling through the woods. Cozy cafes and restaurants serve local Latvian dishes, adding to the charm of this picturesque town. Sigulda is an ideal destination for travelers looking to combine culture, history, and outdoor fun.

#holidayitinerary Kuldīga, located in the Courland region of Latvia, is a picturesque town that feels like stepping back in time. Its historic Old Town is filled with quaint streets, colorful wooden houses, and inviting cafes that make exploring on foot a joy. The town is most famous for the Venta Rapid, Europe’s widest waterfall, which creates a stunning natural spectacle right in the center of town. Kuldīga’s cobblestone streets and historic architecture, including the charming Kuldīga Brick Bridge, give the town a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Local markets and small shops offer handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Latvian treats, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The surrounding countryside adds to the appeal, with scenic riverside walks and peaceful green spaces. Kuldīga combines history, nature, and small-town charm, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience Latvia beyond the usual tourist spots.

[Airplane] If you're tired of the crowds and noise of Western Europe yet crave a land that blends Nordic tranquility with Eastern European charm, Riga's Old Town (Vecrīga) in Latvia will be an unexpected delight. Here, there's no rush of checklist tourism—only time flowing through cobblestone streets, sunsets brushed by Gothic spires, and the locals' "no hurry, take it slow" philosophy. This guide will help you explore this UNESCO-listed medieval gem at a relaxed pace, just like the locals. [FireBalloon] Riga Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Baltic region. Compact and walkable, every alley whispers stories. [Yeah]Must-see spots: [One]Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums): Stand before the colorful Hanseatic merchant houses and imagine 14th-century prosperity when this was the "Venice of the North." The Roland statue at the center symbolizes justice and is a classic local meeting point. [Two]House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams): This reconstructed Gothic building with sky-blue carved gables turns fairy-tale-like when lit at night. Its occasionally open banquet hall reveals murals of Latvian merchants' lavish past. [Three]St. Peter's Church (Sv. Pētera baznīca): Spend €5 to take the elevator up the 72m observation deck for panoramic views of red rooftops, the Daugava River, and the distant Baltic Sea. Best visited 1 hour before sunset for perfect photo light. [Four]Hidden gem: Find the "Three Brothers (Trīs brāļi)"—three side-by-side medieval houses representing different architectural eras. The oldest white house (15th century) now hosts niche exhibits of the Latvian Architecture Museum. [Tiptop]Slow rhythms on cobblestones [One]Artsy route: Jēkaba iela → Alberta iela - Start at Jēkaba iela in northern Old Town, one of Riga's most photogenic sloped lanes with repurposed warehouses housing designer studios like local skincare brand MADARA. - Walk 10min east to the Art Nouveau Quarter. Alberta iela's early-20th-century buildings feature twisted reliefs, peacock motifs, and mosaics—what locals call "Riga Baroque." [Two]Local life: Līvu laukums → Alley adventures - Evening Līvu Square buzzes with street performers. Sip traditional Black Balsam liqueur and join bench-sitters. Radiating alleys lead to cozy secondhand bookshops, amber workshops, and surprise piano notes from apartments. [Three]Tip: Visit late Sep-early Oct when golden leaves carpet streets, turning morning mist into living paintings. [CoolGuy]Baltic golden magic [One]AKA Pier Bar On the western riverbank, enjoy local Valmiermuiža beer on wooden decks as the sun sinks into forests. Summer jazz sessions blend perfectly with lapping waves. [Two]Pulvertornis Tower rooftop - The medieval tower's top-floor café (Alus sēta) offers Gothic-framed views of gilded church spires. Pair with Latvian gingerbread (Piparkūkas)—cinnamon aromas love twilight. [Three]Local hack: Picnic at Bastejkalns - This bastion park is students' and couples' hideout. Evening accordionists play Soviet-era folk songs. Join impromptu choirs with smoked fish rye sandwiches from the market. [Cheers]Live like a Rigan [One]Century-old café (Rocket Bean Roastery) In this converted pharmacy with 1903 tiles, order "Piena kafija" (Latvian coffee with condensed milk) and "Biezpiena sieriņš" (cheese dessert). Window-watching here is a 45-minute ritual. [Two]Central Market (Rīgas Centrāltirgus) - Europe's largest market in Zeppelin hangars. At Zivju paviljons (fish section), pick smoked eel like local housewives, or sample 10+ honeys at Medus stends. Limited English but unlimited smiles. [Three]Sauna ritual (Aqua Luna Spa) Latvians believe saunas heal all. Try oak branch massages here, then plunge into cold pools—silver-haired grandmothers will outlast you.

Latvia is one of the Baltic states, and it's not a country that most people would typically visit 😂. I stopped by while traveling to Russia! After visiting Russia, the streets and shops in Latvia felt so charming and cute 😂. Latvia is famous for Riga, especially the cat 🐈⬛ perched on top of a house. You wouldn't notice it unless someone pointed it out 😂. During this trip, I joined a walking tour to explore the city! The guide showed us the cat, bars with hidden entrances, and other interesting spots. Surprisingly, Riga is said to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree 🎄! The guide shared such fun tidbits with us. It's a cozy little city, so I highly recommend joining a walking tour!

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 #Latvia, one of the three Baltic countries, is a country that is often overlooked. This time I had the opportunity to visit the city of #Riga and take advantage of the weekend to walk around the city. From a cultural and historical perspective, Latvia is a place that has repeatedly jumped between Soviet and German cultures, and between Eastern and Western European cultures. This also means that you can see various styles of architecture from different periods, from the Soviet Union to Central Europe to Western Europe. Travel Tips: There is a Bolt service from the airport to the city center in Euro countries, which makes takeout and travel very convenient and relatively cheap. Accommodation can be chosen in the city center not far from the Liberty Statue. I think the match between price and quality is one of the best in Europe. There are many exquisite small shops in the old town. The overall area is not big enough to walk through. It is recommended to stroll slowly There is basically no need to seek Chinese food in the local area. The local food is quite acceptable to Asian stomachs. Just use the standard focal length for taking photos. The temperature is relatively cold and windy in winter, so you can capture the feeling of the north of the north. Remember to prepare for the cold. Overall, it is a very developed place and does not bring any inconvenience to life.

#cityplaybook A weekend in Rucava, Latvia? A quiet dream! Wander peaceful village paths and taste fresh rye bread from local bakers 🥖🌾. Spot wild horses roaming free in the meadows near Pape Nature Park 🐎🌿—a magical sight. Hike through Pape National Park’s dunes, forests, and lakes 🏞️🌲, watching storks and listening to the wind. End your day with a Baltic Sea sunset on the beach 🌅🌊. In Rucava, nature speaks gently and deeply. #Rucava #naturalwonders #horses #latvia #Pape

It is a perfect place for hipsters and all creatives wanting to relax in a non stagnant way. The city breathes with culture and places to discover. There are great cafes and little pockets of town to get lost in. Bring a book, bring your paints or writing and you will feel right at home. And I haven’t even mentioned the beaches yet! Liepaja has some of the cleanest and whitest beaches in Europe. Why not make it your next holiday destination? #aprilblooms #Liepaja #latvia