12 Amazingly Gorgeous Places in Latvia to Visit

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Latvia is one of Europe’s most underrated gems…seriously. When I visited, I was blown away by how effortlessly it blends old-world charm with untouched nature. One moment you’re wandering through Riga’s medieval streets and Art Nouveau buildings, the next you’re deep in a pine forest or standing on a windswept Baltic beach.

There’s a quiet magic to this place. It doesn’t shout for attention, but it wins you over with peaceful lakes, romantic castles, and that crisp northern air. I found myself slowing down, unplugging, and really soaking it all in.

If you’re drawn to culture, coastlines, or countryside, Latvia delivers. Here are 12 of the most beautiful places I explored…each one packed with history, scenery, and that distinct Baltic soul you won’t find anywhere else.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Latvia 

Excited to explore the most captivating places in Latvia? This Baltic nation has a wide range of attractions for every type of traveler. Keep reading to unveil the spectacular sights and experiences that Latvia has in store for you.

Whether you’re keen on experiencing the cultural richness and urban scenery or you’re more inclined towards a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature, Latvia has options to satisfy all your travel interests. Here are the must-visit destinations in Latvia you’ll want to add to your list:

1. Bauska Castle

• 📍 Location: Bauska, southern Latvia near the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏰, architecture fans 🧱, panoramic views seekers 🌄
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the tower for river views, exploring the ducal palace, learning about Livonian history
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for open exhibits and outdoor events
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rija Bauska Hotel – Simple, comfortable hotel just a 10-minute walk from the castle, with views of the surrounding river valley.

Bauska Castle is straight out of a medieval storybook. Perched where two rivers meet, it once served as a stronghold for the Livonian Order and later became a residence for dukes. Today, it’s a mix of fortress ruins and a restored palace that lets you walk through centuries of Latvian history.

The best part? Climbing the tower. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views of the rivers and the green countryside that surrounds the castle. Inside, the museum showcases weapons, armor, and artifacts that bring the past to life.

Whether you’re into Renaissance interiors or just want a chill spot to explore with a camera in hand, Bauska Castle is a solid pick. It’s not far from Riga, making it a great day trip if you’re craving history with a view.

2. Cape Kolka

• 📍 Location: Slītere National Park, where the Gulf of Riga meets the Baltic Sea
• 🏆 Best For: Coastal views 🌊, birdwatching lovers 🐦, peaceful escapes 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching bird migration, walking to the tip of Cape Kolka, exploring nearby fishing villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May and September for peak bird migration
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pītagi Guest House – Quiet, family-run stay just minutes from the cape

Cape Kolka is where the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga collide, creating one of the most unique coastal views in Latvia. It’s windy, wild, and incredibly peaceful, especially if you catch it at sunrise. The shifting waves and open skies make it feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.

Birdwatchers love this place during spring and fall migration seasons. You’ll see massive flocks sweeping across the sky, and even if you’re not a bird nerd, it’s hard not to be impressed. The area is calm and natural, with nothing but forest and sea around you.

Stick around and explore nearby Kolka village for local food and crafts. Most visitors come for the cape, but the whole area is worth slowing down for. If you’re craving quiet and coastal drama, this is one of Latvia’s best-kept secrets.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in the Baltic Sea

3. Cēsis Castle

• 📍 Location: Cēsis, in the Gauja River Valley of central Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Medieval history lovers 🏰, architecture fans 🧱, cultural explorers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the ruins with a lantern, climbing the Western Tower, visiting the castle museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for outdoor events and castle tours
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Cēsis – Historic hotel in the town center, steps from the castle

Cēsis Castle is the kind of place that doesn’t just show you history, it lets you feel it. Built in the 13th century, the castle still stands with crumbling towers, stone walls, and hidden chambers that spark your imagination. You can even explore the ruins by lantern for a more immersive visit.

The Western Tower offers an incredible view over the town and forests below. Inside the adjacent manor house, a museum adds depth with medieval artifacts and rotating exhibitions. It’s a great balance of ruins and restoration.

Cēsis itself is full of charm, and the castle is its heart. In summer, live concerts and medieval fairs take over the courtyard, making it one of the most atmospheric places to visit in Latvia. Whether you’re here for the stories or just the view, it’s a stop that sticks with you.

4. Gauja National Park

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Latvia, stretching from Sigulda to Valmiera
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌲, outdoor photographers 📷
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Amata Trail, visiting Gutmanis Cave, exploring Turaida Museum Reserve
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for the best trail conditions
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Sigulda – Cozy hotel located in central Sigulda, just minutes from Gauja’s main trails and historic sites

Gauja National Park is Latvia’s largest and oldest national park, and it’s packed with natural variety. You’ll find sandstone cliffs, deep river valleys, and pine forests that stretch for miles. If you’re into long hikes or peaceful paddling trips, this park is a dream come true.

One of the highlights is the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you can wander among medieval ruins and get sweeping views over the Gauja River. Gutmanis Cave is also a cool stop, with its inscriptions and stories. Every season brings something different, but fall colors here are especially stunning.

Sigulda makes a great base, and the area feels remote without being hard to reach. Whether you’re up for ziplining or just want quiet nature time, Gauja gives you options. It’s one of those places that reminds you how simple and wild northern Europe can be.

5. Jūrmala

• 📍 Location: Along the Gulf of Riga, about 25 km west of Riga
• 🏆 Best For: Beachgoers 🏖️, spa lovers 💆, summer travelers 🌞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking along Jomas Street, relaxing at a seaside spa, biking through Dzintari Forest Park
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for warm beach weather
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Baltic Beach Hotel & SPA – Upscale beachfront stay with wellness treatments and sea views

Jūrmala is Latvia’s favorite beach town, and it shows. Long stretches of white sand, breezy pine forests, and chilled-out cafes make it a perfect summer escape. It’s an easy train ride from Riga, but the vibe feels completely different once you’re here.

You can rent a bike and cruise through Dzintari Forest Park, or head straight to the beach and relax with your toes in the sand. The town also has a strong spa culture, with lots of places offering mud baths, saunas, and mineral water treatments.

The wooden architecture here is part of the charm too. Historic villas line the streets, giving the place a laid-back but classy feel. If you want a mix of nature, wellness, and Baltic style, Jūrmala is a solid pick. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who just wants to slow down by the sea.

6. Karosta

• 📍 Location: Northern Liepāja, western Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Urban explorers 🏚️, history buffs 📜, dark tourism fans 🚧
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Karosta Prison, exploring Northern Forts, visiting St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear, dry weather
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Amrita Hotel – Comfortable base in Liepāja, about 10 minutes from Karosta by car

Karosta is like stepping into a different world. Once a secret Soviet military base, this place is raw, strange, and full of stories. You’ll find crumbling bunkers, moody coastlines, and abandoned buildings that feel like movie sets. It’s not your usual pretty town, but it’s unforgettable.

The Karosta Prison is the highlight. You can tour the cells or even spend a night inside for the full experience. It’s creepy, for sure, but it’s also a powerful way to learn about Latvia’s 20th-century history. Nearby, the Northern Forts stretch along the coast with views that feel equal parts peaceful and eerie.

There’s also some unexpected beauty here. St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral is golden and glowing, standing tall among the ruins. Karosta is strange in the best way, and if you’re into unusual travel stops, this one belongs on your Latvia list.

7. Ķemeri National Park

• 📍 Location: 45 minutes west of Riga, in Jūrmala Municipality
• 🏆 Best For: Nature photographers 📸, birdwatchers 🐦, bog trail walkers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk, birdwatching, exploring the Sulphur Springs Pavilion
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best lighting and bird activity
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kemeri Roomstay & Sauna – Cozy stay in the heart of Ķemeri district, offering sauna access and walking-distance proximity to the park’s trails.

Ķemeri National Park is the kind of place where you slow down and tune into nature. It’s famous for its raised bogs, mineral springs, and quiet forests. The best way to take it all in is from the Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk. Early morning mist here is unreal.

The park is also a prime birdwatching spot, especially during migration seasons. You might see cranes, eagles, or owls if you’re patient. Beyond birds, there are peat lakes, sulphur springs, and quiet forest trails that offer a calming escape not far from Riga.

It’s a unique part of Latvia’s landscape that feels worlds away from the city. Whether you’re here for a peaceful walk, a sunrise photo session, or a bit of forest therapy, Ķemeri delivers. Plus, being so close to Jūrmala means you can do spa time and bog hikes in the same weekend.

8. Riga

• 📍 Location: Capital city, central Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🏛️, culture seekers 🎭, market explorers 🛒
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the Old Town, visiting the Art Nouveau district, browsing the Central Market
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and festivals
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Poet Hotel – Stylish hotel near the Freedom Monument with spa access and modern amenities

Riga blends medieval charm with a youthful energy that’s easy to fall into. Start in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where cobblestone streets curve around pastel buildings, gothic churches, and cozy cafés. There’s history in every turn, but it never feels stuffy.

If you’re into design, check out Alberta Street and the Art Nouveau district. It’s filled with intricate facades and Instagram-worthy corners. Then dive into the Central Market (one of Europe’s largest) where you’ll find everything from smoked fish to pickled veggies in giant Soviet-era hangars.

What makes Riga fun is how much it offers in a walkable space. One moment you’re sipping a craft beer in a hidden courtyard, the next you’re at a museum or catching a local music performance. It’s a city that moves at your pace, and whether you’re chilling or exploring hard, Riga gives you room to do both.

9. Rundāle Palace

• 📍 Location: Southern Latvia, near Pilsrundāle
  🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏰, garden strollers 🌹, architecture buffs 🏛️
  📸 Top Experiences: Touring the palace, wandering the French gardens, seeing the Golden Rose Garden
  📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for blooming gardens and outdoor events
  🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Jelgava – Charming riverside hotel 

Rundāle Palace feels like Latvia’s version of Versailles. The Baroque-style estate is dripping in gold ceilings, massive chandeliers, and hand-painted walls that transport you straight into 18th-century elegance. It’s one of those places that makes you want to dress up and daydream.

The French gardens are a whole experience on their own. Designed with perfect symmetry, they’re full of blooming roses, fountains, and photo spots that hit different when the sun’s out. You can easily spend a few hours here, especially if you catch a seasonal event or outdoor concert.

Inside, the palace museum showcases everything from antique furniture to royal portraits. But it’s not just about the past, Rundāle also hosts art exhibits and cultural performances. It’s a great stop for a day trip from Riga or a scenic drive through the countryside. You leave feeling like you stepped into a different time.

10. Sigulda Castle

• 📍 Location: Gauja River Valley, central Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, castle explorers 🏯, outdoor thrill-seekers 🎢
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the castle ruins, ziplining over the valley, exploring nearby caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to early October for fall foliage
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Sigulda – Located just a short walk from Sigulda Castle, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to local attractions.

Sigulda Castle is where fairytale meets adrenaline. The castle itself is a photogenic mix of ruins and restored towers perched above the Gauja River. It’s perfect for wandering and imagining knights charging through the gates, but there’s way more than just medieval vibes.

This town is one of Latvia’s best outdoor spots. You can zipline across the valley, bike forest trails, or ride a bobsled track used in international competitions. For something quieter, check out Gutmanis Cave and Turaida Castle. Both just a short walk or ride away.

Fall is peak season here. The surrounding forests light up with oranges and reds, and the air feels crisp and clean. Sigulda is an easy day trip from Riga, but it’s even better if you stay overnight and slow down. Whether you’re into castles or cliffside views, this place hits all the right notes.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Europe

11. Venta Rapid Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Kuldīga, western Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, photographers 📸, history enthusiasts 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the waterfall, exploring Kuldīga’s Old Town, walking the historic brick bridge
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the “flying fish” phenomenon
• 🏨 Where to Stay: SĪMANIS Boutique Hotel – boutique hotel in the heart of Kuldīga.

Venta Rapid is Europe’s widest waterfall, stretching over 240 meters across the Venta River. While it’s only about 2 meters high, its width and the surrounding scenery make it a must-see. In spring and autumn, you can witness fish attempting to leap over the falls, a unique natural spectacle.

The nearby town of Kuldīga adds to the charm with its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and the famous red brick bridge built in 1874. The bridge offers excellent views of the waterfall and is one of the longest of its kind in Europe.

Reaching Kuldīga from Riga takes approximately 2 hours by car. Alternatively, there are bus options that take around 3.5 hours. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or simply a peaceful setting, Venta Rapid and Kuldīga provide a delightful experience.

12. Ventspils Beach

• 📍 Location: Ventspils, northwestern Latvia
• 🏆 Best For: Beachgoers 🏖️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, maritime history buffs ⚓
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on the Blue Flag beach, visiting Ventspils Castle, exploring the Seaside Open-Air Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for beach activities
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Villa Leonardo – Comfortable guesthouse near the beach with family-friendly amenities

Ventspils Beach is a clean, family-friendly destination along the Baltic Sea, known for its soft white sand and well-maintained facilities. The beach has earned the Blue Flag designation, which means high environmental and quality standards.

Beyond the beach, Ventspils offers attractions like the restored 13th-century Ventspils Castle, which now houses a museum, and the Seaside Open-Air Museum, featuring historic fishing boats and a narrow-gauge railway. The town is also adorned with colorful cow sculptures, adding a whimsical touch to your visit.

Traveling from Riga to Ventspils takes about 2.5 hours by car via the A10 road. There are also regular bus services that cover the distance in approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. Ventspils combines seaside relaxation with cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded destination for various interests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Latvia 

Want to learn more about Latvia’s most breathtaking places? I often receive these questions about its top sights.

What is the prettiest place in Latvia?

The title for the prettiest place in Latvia is highly contested due to the country’s diverse landscape and rich history. However, many consider Cape Kolka, where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga, as one of the most beautiful places of Latvia. Its panoramic sea views, picturesque surroundings, and mesmerizing sunsets make it an unforgettable destination.

What makes Latvia an attractive tourist destination?

Latvia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and modern amenities. From the vibrant streets of Riga to the tranquil meadows of Gauja National Park, Latvia serves as a haven for all types of travelers. Its stunning locations in Latvia, combined with its rich cultural heritage and warm, inviting locals, make it an increasingly popular choice for tourists.

What are some of the best activities to do in Latvia?

Apart from visiting the most scenic places in Latvia, the country offers a wide array of activities. Nature lovers can indulge in hiking, bird-watching, and boating, while history buffs can explore castles, manors, and museums. Don’t forget to try traditional Latvian cuisine!

Are there any hidden gems in Latvia?

Absolutely! Latvia is full of lesser-known places that are equally enchanting. Towns like Kuldīga and Talsi are off the beaten path but offer an intimate glimpse into Latvia’s beauty. Also, keep an eye out for small, family-owned restaurants to experience authentic Latvian hospitality and cuisine.

What is the best time to visit Latvia?

The ideal time to experience the best part of Latvia in terms of weather is during late spring to early fall. However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, Latvia offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in Sigulda and other areas.

How accessible is public transport in Latvia?

Getting around is pretty easy, especially if you’re visiting the most beautiful cities in Latvia. Riga, the capital, has an extensive network of trams, buses, and taxis. For other parts of Latvia, trains and buses are readily available but may require advance booking.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Latvia 

Latvia a place where age-old forests coexist with vibrant modern life, where cobblestone streets lead to contemporary art scenes, and where every corner turned is a feast for the eyes. If you’ve got a taste for the eclectic, the allure of this Baltic gem is irresistible. From the sun-kissed shores of Jūrmala to the time-honored halls of Rundale Palace, there’s no denying it: this country is a medley of beautiful places in Latvia, each unique, each unforgettable.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book that flight, and let Latvia captivate your soul. This isn’t merely a list of Latvia destinations; it’s your gateway to a whole new world of experiences. Each locale isn’t just a point on a map; it’s a chapter in Latvia’s beautiful unfolding narrative, waiting to become a part of your own personal story.

Thank you for embarking on this virtual journey through Latvia with me. Places to see in Latvia are plentiful, but the memories you make will be one of a kind. Remember, the world is too grand to see from just one angle—so make Latvia your next perspective.