Latvia travel guide: Is it safe to travel to Latvia?

Latvia is a small nation situated in Northern Europe. It has the unique blend of natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Tourists can explore historical and cultural sites, such as Riga's Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit numerous castles and manor houses that offer insight into the country's complex history. Latvia's natural beauty is also a draw for tourists, with its diverse landscapes featuring forests, lakes, rivers, and a long coastline. Because of its uniqueness, Latvia became one of the recommended attractions in our Latvia travel guide.

Latvia is a small nation in Northern Europe with the natural beauty with rich cultural heritage

The best time of year to visit Latvia that you should notice

Depending on your preferences and the activities you engage in as a Latvia travel guide, each season in Latvia will suit your needs.

Summer is the peak season in Latvia and the weather is mild and sunny. This season is the best time of year to visit Latvia and take part in hiking, cycling, playing sports,... Also, several cultural events and festivals, including the Latvian Song and Dance Festival. Meanwhile, Autumn is a quiet season for tourism with cool weather. During this time, numerous cuisine events celebrating Latvian foods and beverages will take place.

Each season in Latvia will suit your needs depending on your preferences and the activities you engage in

On the other hand, Winter can be cold and snowy, making it a magical time to be involved in winter sports such as ski resorts, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Spring is chilly and rainy - the best time of year to visit Latvia since the country will hold Easter celebrations, other traditional events throughout the country.

Best places to visit in Latvia recommended for first-time travelers

Riga

Riga is Latvia's capital city, located in the country's central region on the banks of the Daugava River. The city boasts a rich and diverse history, influenced by various powers over the centuries. Riga's architecture reflects this history, with a mix of medieval, Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and modern buildings.

Riga is Latvia's capital city in the country's central region on the banks of the Daugava River

The Old Town has small streets and well-preserved medieval architecture, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition, Riga is well known for its cultural attractions, which include a wide variety of theaters, art galleries, and museums. There is also one of the biggest in Europe, the city's Central Market provides a wide selection of fresh products and traditional Latvian dishes - making it one of the best places to visit in Latvia.

Sigulda

Sigulda is a beautiful town located in Latvia's Gauja River valley and is a popular destination for tourists in our Latvia travel guide. The town has a lengthy history, and among the well-liked attractions are the remains of a medieval castle. Adventure sports like bungee jumping and zip-lining are available in Sigulda along with various outdoor recreational pursuits like hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Sigulda is a beautiful town in Latvia's Gauja River valley and is a popular destination for tourists

Another noteworthy aspect of the town is its breathtaking natural surroundings, which include lovely valleys and the Gauja River that flows through it. The Sigulda Culture and Art Center, Sigulda City Museum, and Sigulda Opera Festival are just a few of the cultural attractions that make Sigulda a particular and distinct best place to visit in Latvia.

Jurmala

About 25 kilometers west of Riga, the country's capital, is the vacation town of Jurmala on the Baltic Sea coast of Latvia. The community is renowned for its stunning sand beaches, breathtaking scenery, and distinctive architecture, with many of the structures being built in the Art Nouveau style. A lot of hotels, restaurants, and cafes can be found in Jurmala, which also offers a variety of leisure opportunities like golfing and water sports.

Jurmala on the Baltic Sea coast of Latvia with many structures being built in the Art Nouveau style

The town which is recommended by Latvia travel guide is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Jurmala City Museum and the Dzintari Concert Hall, which hosts a range of musical and cultural events throughout the year.

Is it safe to travel to Latvia?

Is it safe to travel to Latvia? Reports of petty theft and robbery have surfaced although it is not a high rate. Therefore it is important to exercise caution to avoid falling victim to pickpocketing. Refrain from walking on dimly lit streets and in parks at night, and be especially vigilant if you are walking alone. Most incidents of theft have occurred in Riga Old Town, Central Market, and central train and bus stations, so it is essential to remain particularly alert in these areas.

Latvia entry requirement in 2023

For stays up to 90 days during a six-month period, no visa is needed for citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland. Visa-free entry is available to citizens of other nations, including the US and Canada, for stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period in Latvia.

Schengen visa and travel insurance are Latvia entry requirements

For international tourists that are not listed above, a Schengen visa is a Latvia entry requirement and Latvia travel insurance is mandatory to apply for this kind of visa. Travel insurance at Travelner will cover for most arising problems with a high liability for your trips. Be sure that you have equipped yourself with our travel insurance to ensure a safe trip abroad to discover all things in the Latvia travel guide.