Posted by Trains, connections and information Lithuania, top 10 attractions in Latvia, important places and coast of Latvia
Latvia is geographically located in the middle of the three Baltic countries. The country hardly has more inhabitants than Hamburg. Since the end of the Soviet Union, the country has had major economic problems. The Russian minority is very numerous. In the eastern regions and also in many districts of the capital Riga, Russians are in the majority. This always leads to conflicts. About a third of the residents live in the capital Riga, the largest city in the Baltics. Economically, Latvia is doing worse than its neighbor Estonia to the north. Latvia also attracts fewer tourists than Estonia or Lithuania. As a result of joining the EU, a lot of investments are coming to Latvia. It is primarily the low wage level that attracts Western companies to Latvia. On 1 January. Latvia adopted the euro in 2014.
Arrival / connections in the country
There are trains from Latvia to neighboring countries every day. There is also a direct train connection to Poland. But you should make sure that the train does not take the route via Belarus. If this is the case, German citizens need an expensive transit visa. The railway in Latvia is quite old and slow, but very cheap.
The many buses are faster: regular buses connect the most important places within Latvia very frequently. There is good local transport in and around Riga. Buses abroad run from Riga to Tallinn and Vilnius about 7 times a day. There are also bus connections to other cities in Lithuania such as Kaunas. There are expensive ferry connections to Kiel and Sweden
Video top sights in Latvia (youtube, english)
Sights Latvia
Most package tours through the Baltics only include the capital Riga in Latvia. There aren’t too many interesting sights in Latvia outside the capital.
Riga, which 20 years ago was one of the most run-down cities I have ever seen, has become much more beautiful. The newly renovated old town and the city walls are the country’s tourist magnet. The view of the old town from the tower of St. Peter Church is interesting. Personally, I liked the Riga market in a huge hall. Zeppelins were manufactured here during the time when Riga was a German city. At the time, the Zeppelin Hall was one of the largest halls in the world.
Our recommendation: Book a tour of Riga’s amazing Central Market and try 20 foods: More info
The old town of the capital is one of the great attractions of Latvia
Embark on your Latvian adventure in the capital Riga, known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Stroll the cobblestone streets, visit Riga Castle, and marvel at the intricate façade of Alberta Street. Don’t miss the famous Riga Cathedral and the lively Central Market.
Sigulda:
Visit the picturesque town of Sigulda, the gateway to Gauja National Park. Explore the medieval Turaida Castle, take a cable car ride and enjoy panoramic views of the Gauja River valley, and visit the mysterious Gutmanis Cave, decorated with ancient inscriptions.
Jurmala:
Visit Jurmala, a charming seaside resort known for its sandy beaches and Art Nouveau architecture. Relax by the Baltic Sea, stroll down Jomas Street lined with cafes and boutiques, or explore Zintari Forest Park for some peace and quiet.
Cēsi’s old town:
Explore the town of Cesis, which retains its medieval charm and is surrounded by lush greenery. Visit the castle complex of Cesis, stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and experience the unique atmosphere of the town square with its medieval architecture.
Kuldiga:
Kuldiga, also known as the Venice of the North, is known for its charming red brick architecture and Europe’s widest waterfall, Venta Rapid. Stroll along the historic brick bridges, explore the old town and experience the beauty of Ventus Rumba.
Latgale:
Immerse yourself in Latgale, a region known for its tranquil lakes and unique cultural traditions. Explore Agrona Cathedral, an important pilgrimage site, visit the historic Ruza Castle, and experience the hospitality of the local community.
Daugavpil’s city residents:
Visit Daugavpils, rich in history and home to the impressive Daugavpils Fortress. Explore the Mark Rothko Art Center, dedicated to the famous abstract expressionist painter, and stroll through the charming Svente Manor.
Rundale Castle:
Stroll through the luxurious Rundale Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture surrounded by beautiful French gardens. Tour the ornate rooms, the White Hall and the Golden Hall, and learn about the history of the Dukes of Courland.
Liepaja:
Discover Liepaja, a city with a rich maritime history and a vibrant music scene. Explore the former Karosta military base, visit Liepaja Beach, and experience the unique sounds of the Liepaja Organ in the Concert Hall.
Cape Colca:
End your trip to Latvia at Cape Kolka, a picturesque place where the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga meet. Enjoy pristine beaches, explore lighthouses and experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this northernmost region of Latvia.
Latvia Infhttp://reise-osteuropa.de/riga-zentralmarkt/os
| Resident | 1.9 million in 2023 |
| Area of Latvia | 65.000 km² |
| Inhabitants / km² | 29 (quite sparsely populated, except around Riga) |
| Capital city | Riga |
| Language | Latvian (official), Russian |
| religion | Evangelical Lutheran |
| currency | Euro since 2014 |
| gross domestic product | 21,000 dollars / inhabitant (now a rather rich Eastern European country) |
| Visas |
No, just ID card, Latvia is in the EU |
| Area code of Germany | 00371 |
| Internet addresses | .lv |
| Vehicle license plate | LV |
