Latvia Holidays
Latvia is the kind of place that sneaks up on you, in the best way. Blending storybook towns, sweeping beaches, and wild green landscapes into one seriously underrated adventure
Holidays in Latvia
Latvia is where fairy-tale charm meets the soulful spirit of the north. Nestled between Estonia and Lithuania, this compact Baltic gem blends culture, coastline, and countryside into one endlessly appealing package. The capital, Riga, is home to colour-bursting markets and cobbled lanes lined with trinket shops and mouth-watering restaurants. While the countryside reveals a quieter kind of magic, think misty forests, glassy lakes, and the moss-covered ruins of medieval castles – perfect for those who love to snap a photo of breathtaking history. Whether you're wandering through storybook towns or enjoying a lazy picnic in a pine-scented glade, Latvia offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-track escape that’s rich in atmosphere and full of heart.
When is the best time to visit?
Latvia truly comes into its own between June and August, when long, sunny days invite you to swim in the Baltic, bike through forests, and join in on midsummer festivities. Prefer peace and golden leaves? Autumn, September and October, paint the countryside in rich amber and russet, perfect for woodland hikes and castle visits without the crowds. Winter casts a soft hush over the land, with snow-dusted rooftops, cosy cafés, and Christmas markets that sparkle in Riga’s Old Town. And come spring, Latvia begins to bloom, as meadows burst into colour and sleepy towns wake up with early festivals and outdoor fun.
Where is the best place to stay?
Riga is the beating heart of Latvia and a brilliant base for all kinds of adventures. Stay in a boutique hotel tucked among Old Town’s cobbles or opt for a stylish flat in the Art Nouveau district with grand staircases and vintage charm. Just 30 minutes away, Jurmala is Latvia’s laid-back seaside gem, offering spa hotels, wellness retreats, and miles of sandy coastline wrapped in fragrant pine woods. For nature lovers and castle seekers, the towns of Sigulda and Cēsis in Gauja National Park are ideal, with charming guesthouses and plenty of fresh air. And on the opposite coast, Liepāja blends music, creativity, and salty sea breezes, think beach picnics by day and live gigs by night.
Travel guide
Latvia is ideal for travellers looking for a mix of history, nature, and affordable European charm.
- Best time to visit: June-August
- Average flight time: 3 Hours
- Most suited for: Couples, Solo Travellers, Cultural Explorers, Nature Lovers
- Currency: Euro
- Time Difference: +2 Hours
Soak Up the Sun in Jurmala
Jurmala feels like a world away, where the beach stretches for miles and the vibe is pure Baltic bliss. Dip your toes in the soft white sand, stroll the pedestrian street Jomas iela lined with cafés and ice cream stands, or relax in a steamy sauna after a day of swimming and spa treatments. The town’s iconic wooden villas add a romantic, seaside charm, and the fresh sea breeze is just the ticket for a lazy summer day. Whether you’re after wellness, waves, or waffles, Jurmala delivers.
Get Lost in Nature at Gauja National Park
Gauja National Park is a green haven packed with hiking trails, dramatic river valleys, and wildlife. Adventurers can paddle down the Gauja River by kayak or explore ancient cave systems like Gutmanis Cave, Latvia’s largest. History lovers can explore the romantic ruins of the picture-perfect Turaida Castle. Whether you're cycling, hiking, or just enjoying the peace and birdsong, it’s Latvia’s great outdoors at its finest.
Step Back in Time in Riga's Old Town
Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is a captivating maze of Gothic church spires, cobbled streets, and pastel-coloured merchant houses. It’s where history meets street musicians, and lively squares tucked between centuries-old walls. Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church for sweeping views across the rooftops, pop into the quirky House of the Blackheads, and treat yourself to a lazy lunch in one of the charming courtyards.
Food & Drink in Latvia
Latvian cuisine is as grounded and characterful as the landscapes it comes from – simple, seasonal, and satisfyingly hearty. You’ll find smoky sausages, pickled vegetables, and earthy wild mushrooms on many menus, alongside comforting favourites like grey peas with bacon and refreshing cold beet soup in summer. Wanting to satisfy that sweet tooth? Don’t miss honey cakes, bilberry buns, or a slice of rye bread slathered in butter. A visit to Riga Central Market is a feast for the senses, with rows of cheeses, smoked meats, and forest-foraged goodies to explore. As for drinks, try a crisp local craft beer or brave a sip of Riga Black Balsam – a dark, herbal liqueur with centuries of Latvian tradition in every bittersweet drop.
Latvia Weather
Average monthly temperature in Latvia (°C)
- Jan -3°C
- Feb -2°C
- Mar 2°C
- Apr 8°C
- May 14°C
- Jun 17°C
- Jul 19°C
- Aug 18°C
- Sep 14°C
- Oct 9°C
- Nov 3°C
- Dec -1°C
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