Latvia may be small, but it’s filled with big surprises—from fairytale forests to sandy beaches and cobblestone towns you’ve never heard of (but should!). If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers wandering off the beaten path, this Baltic gem is calling your name. In 2025, Latvia will offer more than just its capital, Riga. It’s home to enchanting castles, serene nature trails, quirky cultural spots, and ancient towns that feel untouched by time.
Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic escape, or a road trip through the Baltics, this guide will take you through 10 underrated places in Latvia that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Kuldīga – Europe’s Widest Waterfall & Timeless Streets
Why You’ll Love It:
Picture yourself strolling through Kuldīga as the sun sets over the ancient red-brick bridge—the sound of Europe’s widest waterfall, Ventas Rumba, rushing gently in the background. It’s like stepping into a Latvian fairytale.
Kuldīga is one of Latvia’s best-preserved historic towns. Cobbled streets, charming 17th-century houses, and a peaceful pace of life make it an ideal escape from the rush. The Ventas Rumba waterfall is not just photogenic—it’s a local hangout spot in summer, where people swim, sunbathe, and even witness fish jumping up the falls in spring.
- Best visited in late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds.
- Easily reachable by car or bus from Riga (about 2.5 hours).
2. Cape Kolka – Where Two Seas Meet
Why You’ll Love It:
There’s something poetic about standing at Cape Kolka, where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga. You can watch the waves collide from two directions and feel like you’ve reached the edge of the world.
Cape Kolka is remote and raw, surrounded by pine forests, quiet beaches, and the sleepy charm of fishing villages. It’s the perfect digital detox destination. You might even catch wild horses grazing nearby or stumble upon Soviet-era shipwrecks buried in the sand.
- Ideal for a peaceful day trip or camping overnight.
- Summer offers warmer waters and clearer skies.
- Best accessed by car; public transport is limited.
3. Cēsis – Medieval Magic and Castle Ruins
Why You’ll Love It:
Step into the pages of a medieval saga in Cēsis, where ancient castle ruins overlook a quaint town square. Wander the winding streets, explore Cēsis Castle, and imagine knights and noblewomen roaming the halls.
In the evening, enjoy a craft beer in a cozy tavern or catch an outdoor performance in the castle courtyard. Cēsis is surrounded by forests and rivers, making it a great base for hiking and kayaking too.
Travel Tips:
- Visit in summer for festivals and open-air concerts.
- Just 2 hours by train or car from Riga.
- Wear good walking shoes for the cobblestones and castle stairs.
4. Gauja National Park – Latvia’s Outdoor Playground
Why You’ll Love It:
Latvia’s largest and oldest national park, Gauja National Park, is a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. Think sandstone cliffs, Gutmanis Cave (the widest in the Baltics), dense forests, and hidden castles like Turaida and Krimulda.
The park bursts with color in autumn—fiery reds, oranges, and golds line the trails. Adventurers can zipline over the Gauja River or canoe through its bends. Nature here is not just a backdrop—it’s the main event.
Travel Tips:
- Autumn (September–October) is the peak foliage season.
- Base yourself in Sigulda or Cēsis for easy access.
- Use local trains and buses or rent a car for full exploration.
5. Rundāle Palace – Latvia’s Mini Versailles
Why You’ll Love It:
Think Latvia doesn’t do grandeur? Think again. Rundāle Palace is a Baroque masterpiece straight out of Versailles. Designed by the same architect who built Russia’s Winter Palace, this 18th-century gem dazzles with golden halls, elaborate gardens, and royal history.
Take a guided tour to learn about the Dukes of Courland, then lose yourself in the French-style rose gardens. Bring a picnic and feel like royalty for a day.
Travel Tips:
- Best in late spring or summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
- Located 1.5 hours from Riga by car or tour bus.
- Check their calendar for special events and concerts.
6. Sigulda – The “Switzerland of Latvia”
Why You’ll Love It:
With its hilly terrain, medieval castles, and river valleys, Sigulda has earned its nickname as the “Switzerland of Latvia.” It’s a hub for outdoor activities—from bobsledding and ziplining to hiking the Gauja trails.
In autumn, the town transforms into a painter’s palette of orange and gold. The views from the Sigulda Castle ruins are postcard-perfect, especially at sunrise.
Travel Tips:
- Visit in October for the fall foliage or winter for snow sports.
- Just an hour from Riga by train.
- Don’t miss the aerial cable car over the Gauja River.
7. Jūrmala – Spa Town by the Sea
Why You’ll Love It:
Need to unwind? Head to Jūrmala, Latvia’s beloved spa town, where white-sand beaches stretch along the Gulf of Riga and pastel wooden villas peek through pine trees. The air feels fresher here, and time slows down.
From thermal spas and sea mud treatments to beach walks and art nouveau architecture, Jūrmala offers the perfect blend of nature and luxury.
Travel Tips:
- Best enjoyed in summer, but quieter in late spring or early autumn.
- Only 30 minutes from Riga by train.
- Book a spa treatment at Hotel Jūrmala Spa or Baltic Beach Hotel.
8. Liepāja – Latvia’s Cool Coastal City
Why You’ll Love It:
Liepāja is edgy, artsy, and full of surprises. Once a major naval port, it’s now a thriving cultural hub known for music festivals, street art, and creative energy. Stroll through Karosta, a former Soviet military zone turned cultural space.
Explore the quirky Great Amber Concert Hall, sunbathe on Blue Flag beaches, and discover abandoned forts and bunkers along the coast.
Travel Tips:
- Best during summer for events like the Summer Sound Festival.
- Around 3 hours from Riga by car, bus, or train.
- Ideal for urban explorers and history buffs.
9. Latgale – Land of Lakes and Living Traditions
Why You’ll Love It:
Eastern Latvia’s Latgale region feels like a world of its own. Often overlooked, it’s dotted with crystal-clear lakes, traditional wooden homes, and a deep-rooted cultural identity. It’s a place where the Latgalian language and crafts still thrive.
Paddle across Lake Rāzna, visit family-run ceramic studios, or attend folk festivals that celebrate centuries-old traditions. Latgale offers authenticity and warmth you won’t find in big cities.
Travel Tips:
- Summer is perfect for lake activities and village festivals.
- Rent a car to explore the remote countryside.
- Stay in local guesthouses for the full cultural experience.
10. Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia – A Walk Through Time
Why You’ll Love It:
If you can’t explore all of rural Latvia, visit the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum just outside Riga. Spread across a pine forest by Lake Jugla, this open-air museum recreates village life from all four of Latvia’s regions.
Wander past traditional farmsteads, windmills, and wooden churches. Join workshops in pottery or weaving. It’s not just a museum—it’s a living snapshot of Latvian heritage.
Travel Tips:
- Open year-round; summer hosts special folk events and festivals.
- Reachable by bus or taxi from central Riga.
- Bring snacks or enjoy a meal at the traditional tavern on-site.
Final Thoughts: Why Latvia Should Be on Your 2025 Travel List
Latvia is the kind of country that quietly impresses. Its hidden gems, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry are waiting to be discovered by travelers who seek more than the typical tourist trail. In 2025, skip the crowds and embrace the authentic, the serene, and the soul-stirring beauty of Latvia.
Whether you’re drawn to coastal breezes, medieval charm, or forest adventures, these 10 underrated places in Latvia will surprise you, delight you, and—quite possibly—make you fall in love with this Baltic treasure.
FAQs for Travelers Planning a Trip to Latvia in 2025
Q: Is Latvia safe for travelers?
Absolutely. Latvia is considered one of the safest countries in Europe for solo travelers, families, and couples.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Latvia?
If you’re from the EU, the US, the UK, Canada, or many other countries, you can enter visa-free for short stays. Check with your local embassy for up-to-date requirements.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Latvia?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful landscapes. Summer is perfect for beach lovers.
Q: Is English widely spoken?
Yes, especially in tourist areas. In rural regions, you might encounter more Latvian or Russian speakers, but locals are friendly and helpful.
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