Europe · 25 Places · Best June to August
Latvia blends medieval charm with Art Nouveau splendor in the heart of the Baltics. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Riga to pristine beaches along the Baltic Sea, this compact country offers rich history, vibrant culture, and unspoiled nature.
Latvia blends medieval charm with Art Nouveau splendor in the heart of the Baltics. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Riga to pristine beaches along the Baltic Sea, this compact country offers rich history, vibrant culture, and unspoiled nature.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 25 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
UNESCO World Heritage site with over 800 years of history featuring cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and architectural masterpieces. The heart of Riga contains the densest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in the world alongside Gothic and Baroque structures.
Stunning Gothic building originally built in 1334 for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, an association of unmarried merchants. Destroyed in WWII and rebuilt in 1999, it now serves as a concert hall and museum showcasing Riga's merchant history.
42.7-meter tall granite and copper monument symbolizing Latvia's independence and striving for freedom. Unveiled in 1935, it features the sculpture Liberty holding three gold stars representing Latvia's cultural regions. The site is guarded by honor guards and remains a focal point for national celebrations.
Latvia's largest medieval church built starting in 1211, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau elements. Home to one of the world's largest pipe organs with 6,768 pipes, built in 1884. The cathedral features stunning stained glass windows and houses a museum of Riga's history.
Street showcasing the world's finest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture with elaborately decorated facades featuring mythological creatures, faces, and floral motifs. Designed primarily by architect Mikhail Eisenstein in the early 1900s. Eight of the thirteen buildings are designed by the same architect.
One of Europe's largest markets housed in five former German Zeppelin hangars from WWI. UNESCO World Heritage site featuring fresh produce, meats, fish, dairy, and traditional Latvian foods. Over 3,000 vendors serve locals and tourists daily in this cultural institution since 1930.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Five-star luxury in a beautifully restored 19th-century building overlooking the Daugava River and Old Town. Features elegant rooms with views of the Latvian National Opera, award-winning spa, and Michelin-quality dining. The epitome of refined Baltic hospitality.
Check rates on Booking.comModern riverside hotel offering excellent value with spacious rooms, comprehensive spa facilities, and riverside views. Popular for wellness breaks with multiple saunas, pools, and treatment rooms. Walking distance to Old Town and Central Market.
Check rates on Booking.comPopular hostel in Old Town offering clean, comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. Mix of private rooms and dorms with modern facilities. Social common areas perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Steps from major attractions.
Check rates on Booking.comSophisticated boutique hotel in an Art Nouveau building featuring luxurious rooms with contemporary design, rooftop terrace, and exceptional spa facilities. Known for personalized service and gourmet breakfast. Prime Old Town location steps from major attractions.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Open-kitchen restaurant showcasing the best of modern Latvian cuisine with carefully curated drinks. Three renowned chefs collaborate to create innovative dishes using seasonal local ingredients. Intimate dining experience with counter seating overlooking the kitchen.
Cozy restaurant in Old Riga offering modern take on Latvian and Baltic cuisine. Michelin Bib Gourmand award winner for excellent balance of quality and value. Menu inspired by local ingredients and traditional recipes served with creative twist.
Massive Latvian buffet-style restaurant complex showcasing traditional cuisine at affordable prices. Choose from dozens of hot and cold dishes, grilled meats, salads, and desserts. Family-friendly with entertainment areas, brewery, and outdoor terrace.
Various food stalls throughout Europe's largest market offering fresh local specialties. Try smoked fish, honey, fresh pastries, and traditional Latvian snacks. Authentic market atmosphere with locals shopping daily.
Specialty coffee roastery and café serving expertly crafted espresso drinks and filter coffee. Minimalist Scandinavian design with knowledgeable baristas. Popular with coffee enthusiasts and remote workers.
Celebrates Latvian regional products with European cooking techniques. Menu features everything from traditional herrings to locally-grown tiger prawns and premium Latvian beef steaks. Elegant countryside-inspired interior with focus on farm-to-table dining.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $28 (hostel dorm) | $85 (3-star hotel or nice Airbnb) | $220 (5-star hotel) |
| Food (per day) | $20 (supermarket breakfast, budget lunch, casual dinner) | $45 (café breakfast, mid-range lunch and dinner) | $90 (fine dining, premium restaurants) |
| Transportation | $5 (public transport day pass) | $10 (taxis and public transport mix) | $25 (private transfers, taxis) |
| Activities | $9 (one paid attraction, free walking tour) | $16 (multiple attractions, guided tour) | $48 (premium experiences, spa treatments, private tours) |
| Daily total | $62 | $156 | $383 |
Beware of pickpockets in tourist areas and crowded locations
Select well-marked taxis or use ride-sharing apps like Bolt
Avoid areas within 2km of the Belarus border - special license required
Silene-Urbani road border crossing with Belarus is currently closed
Public transportation is safe and reliable
Violent crime against tourists is rare
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival for extended stays — the US Embassy is at Samnera Velsa iela 1, Riga
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Latvia; bottled water is unnecessary expense
Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers in nightclubs — drink spiking has been reported in Riga's Old Town bar district
Health insurance is essential; the European Health Insurance Card covers EU citizens but non-EU travelers should purchase comprehensive travel insurance before arrival
Latvia is a safe country for travelers with low levels of violent crime against tourists. Riga's Old Town and city center are generally safe day and night, though standard precautions apply in crowded areas. The main risks are petty theft and occasional scams targeting tourists in nightlife areas. Emergency services: police at 110, medical at 113.
The best time to visit Latvia is June to August. Latvia has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm and sunny with very long daylight hours — Riga sees up to 18 hours of daylight at midsummer — whil
No visa required for stays up to 90 days within 180-day period. ETIAS authorization will be required starting 2026. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR) (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Latvia: Latvian, Russian, English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Latvia include Riga Old Town (Vecrīga), House of the Blackheads, Freedom Monument, Riga Cathedral (Doma Cathedral), and Alberta iela (Art Nouveau District). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
