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Cities to Visit in Latvia: Discover the 20 Best of the Baltic Nations

  • Post category:Europe
  • Post last modified:May 21, 2023

Cities to Visit in Latvia: Discover the 20 Best of the Baltic Nations

 

Best cities in latvia;

Latvia is a small but mighty country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. Despite its small size, Latvia packs a punch regarding things to see and do, with a rich history and culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities. In this article post, we’ll look at 20 of the top cities to visit in Latvia and what makes each one special.

 

1. Riga: 

cities in latvia

 

The capital of Latvia, Riga, is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the country. The city has a vibrant and varied culture located on the Baltic Sea. The Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to many stunning examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Riga is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, as well as its lively nightlife scene. Visitors to Riga can also enjoy excellent dining and shopping and a wide variety of cultural and historical sites.

 

2. Jurmala:

Jurmala

 

Located just a short train ride from Riga one of the big cities in latvia, Jurmala is a famous beach resort town. The town is known for its wide, sandy beaches and picturesque wooden houses. In addition to lounging on the beach, Swimming, sailing, and windsurfing are just a few water sports tourists to Jurmala can participate in. The town is also home to spas, wellness facilities, and numerous top-notch eateries and cafes.

 

3. Sigulda:

Sigulda - latvia cities

Sigulda is a charming small town located in the Gauja River Valley. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and is home to many cultural and historical sites. Visitors to Sigulda can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys and the town’s medieval castle and Turaida Museum Reserve. Sigulda is also famous for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.

 

4. Liepaja:

Liepaja - cities in latvia

Located on the west coast of Latvia, Liepaja is a charming port town known for its excellent beaches and lively atmosphere. Visitors to Liepaja can enjoy a variety of water sports and explore the town’s historic center, which is home to many beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Liepaja is also a popular destination for music lovers, as it is home to several festivals and events throughout the year.

 

5. Daugavpils:

The second-largest city in Latvia, Daugavpils, is renowned for its extensive history and cultural heritage. The city has a significant Russian and Polish minority population, which adds to its unique character. Visitors to Daugavpils can explore the old town, which is home to many beautiful examples of 19th-century architecture. The city also has several museums, including the Mark Rothko Art Centre and the Daugavpils Fortress.

 

6. Ventspils:

Located on the western coast of Latvia, Ventspils is a port town known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. Visitors to Ventspils can enjoy water sports, lounge on the beach, and explore the town’s historic center and many parks and gardens. The town also has a thriving cultural scene, with several festivals and events happening throughout the year.

 

7. Rundale Palace: 

Rundale Palace

 

Rundale Palace is located in the small town of Bauska and is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Latvia. The palace, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, was constructed in the 18th century. Visitors to the palace can take a tour of the main building and explore its many rooms, as well as its beautiful gardens.

 

8. Kuldiga:

Kuldiga - cities in latvia

 

Kuldiga is a charming small town located in the western part of Latvia. The town is known for its picturesque setting and beautiful architecture. Visitors to Kuldiga can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments. The town also has a picturesque waterfall, the Ventas Rumba, one of the widest in Europe and an excellent spot for taking photos.

 

9. Cesis:

Cesis - cities in latvia

 

A little town called Cesis can be found in Latvia’s north. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Cesis can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments. The town is also near the Gauja National Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

 

10. Jelgava: 

Jelgava - cities in latvia

The little city of Jelgava is situated in the heart of Latvia. The city is renowned for its intriguing past, vibrant present, and beautiful surroundings. The old town of Jelgava, filled with historical structures and monuments, is open to visitors. The Jelgava Palace, formerly the Dukes of Courland’s palace and now a museum, is another landmark in the city.

 

 

11. Valmiera:

Valmiera - cities in latvia

A little city called Valmiera can be found in Latvia’s northeast. The city is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Valmiera can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments. The city is also near the Gauja National Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

 

12. Bauska:

Bauska

 

A little town called Bauska can be found in southern Latvia. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Bauska can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments. The town is also home to the Rundale Palace, a beautiful Baroque palace considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Latvia.

 

13. Jekabpils:

Jekabpils

 

A little city called Jekabpils can be found in Latvia’s east. The city is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Jekabpils can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Jekabpils Castle and the St. Matthias Church. The city is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating, located on the Daugava River.

 

14. Rezekne:

Rezekne

 

A little city called Rezekne can be found in Latvia’s east. The city is renowned for its intriguing past, vibrant present, and beautiful surroundings. Visitors to Rezekne can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Rezekne Castle and St. Simon’s Church. The city is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, as it is located near the Riekstuciems Ski Resort.

 

15. Ludza:

Ludza - cities in latvia

 

A little town called Ludza can be found in Latvia’s east. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Ludza can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Ludza Castle and St. John’s Church. The town is also famous for outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting.

 

16. Kraslava:

Kraslava - cities in latvia

 

A little settlement called Kraslava may be found in eastern Latvia. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and lovely surroundings. Visitors to Kraslava can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Kraslava Castle and the St. Anne’s Church. Due to its proximity to the Kraslava Ski Resort, the town is also a well-liked spot for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and skiing.

17. Balvi:

Balvi - cities in latvia

 

In the northeastern region of Latvia, there is a little town called Balvi. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors to Balvi can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Balvi Castle and St. Michael’s Church. The town is close to Lake Balvi and a well-liked spot for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and fishing.

18. Madonna:

Madonna - cities in latvia

 

A little town called Madonna can be found in Latvia’s east. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and lovely surroundings. Visitors to Madona can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and monuments, such as the Madona Castle and the St. George’s Church. Due to its proximity to the Madona Ski Resort, the town is also a well-liked spot for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and skiing.

19. Smiltene:

Smiltene - cities in latvia

 

A little settlement called Smiltene can be found in Latvia’s northeast. The town is renowned for its fascinating past, vibrant present, and stunning natural surroundings. The old town of Smiltene, which includes numerous historic structures and landmarks like the Smiltene Castle and St. Martin’s Church, is open to visitors. The town’s proximity to Lake Smiltene makes it a popular spot for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and fishing.

 

20. Gulbene:

 - cities in latvia

 

In the northeastern region of Latvia, there is a little town called Gulbene. The town has a storied past, vibrant culture, and a lovely setting. Visitors to Gulbene can explore the old town, which is home to many historic buildings and Monuments, such as the Gulbene Castle and St. John’s Church. The town is also famous for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing. It is in the middle of a forest, with a small ski resort nearby. Additionally, Gulbene is known for its railroad culture. It is home to the Gulbene-Aluksne narrow-gauge railway, which offers scenic rides through the beautiful Latvian countryside.

 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Latvia is a country full of beautiful, diverse cities with unique characters and cultures. Latvia has something to offer every traveler, from the vibrant capital of Riga to the charming small towns and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities or just looking for a relaxing beach holiday, Latvia is worth a visit. On your next trip to Latvia, check out one or more of these 20 cities and experience what this Baltic nation has to offer.

 

It’s important to note that many other cities and towns in Latvia are also worth visiting. These 20 cities are just a small selection of the many beautiful and exciting places Latvia offers. Other cities worth mentioning include:

  • The university town of Jelgava.
  • The coastal town of Liepaja.
  • The secluded town of Madona.

Each of these cities and towns has its unique charm and offers visitors a different experience. Whatever kind of experience you’re seeking, Latvia has something to offer everyone who visits.