Latvia, the Baltic country in Europe, might not be the most popular or well-known destination on the continent, but it surely is a place that can take your breath away and allow you to witness a different side of Europe. Don’t be deceived by the size of this country, it might be small, but it has an array of things to offer that can leave you awe-inspired and impressed. From boasting bountiful beautiful nature to turbulent history and rich culture, Latvia has a bit of all the elements, and that makes it the perfect holiday destination for outdoor enthusiasts and city trippers.
Mass tourism is a huge issue with almost every tourist destination, but luckily, that’s not the case with Latvia. It certainly draws crowds from different parts of the world, but it doesn’t feel overwhelming, unlike other popular destinations in Europe. Additionally, the nation is home to a myriad of spectacular and picturesque villages and cities, through which you can admire the beauty of this beautiful country.
Ahead, we have put together a list of some beautiful places that you can explore in Latvia for an unforgettable experience.
Riga
Riga, the capital city of Latvia, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the country. The city boasts of a fresh and vibrant atmosphere despite its old yet impressive architecture. The architectural style of the city is a mix of everything, apart from that, it also houses a plethora of historic sites that date back to the 13th century, they all are a must-visit. You can also sample some typical Latvian cuisines in Riga at local restaurants and the Central Market.
Sigulda
Sigulda is an hour’s drive from Riga; it is one of the historic cities in the country. This historic town is the perfect destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventure and those who are history fans. Apart from that, Sigulda houses three beautiful castles, and they all belong to different periods. Of all the castles, the Sigulda Castle is the most important one; it comprises both the old and new castle. You will certainly be left spellbound by the beauty of these castles; the beautiful surroundings only enhance the beauty of these castles even more.
Kuldiga
Kuldiga is yet another gorgeous and charming town in Latvia. Boasting colorful houses and bridges, this beautiful town is truly a sight to behold. The atmosphere of this place is super calm, serene, and rejuvenating. The two most beautiful things about this town are the river that runs along the streets and between homes and Europe’s widest waterfall, the Venta Rapids. The Venta Rapids is visited by tourists and locals alike, this place is famous for incredible views, swimming, and not to mention flyfishing.
Cesis
Have you ever been to a medieval city in the Baltics? If no, then here’s a chance for you to discover one of the well-preserved medieval towns in Latvia- Cesis. Cesis is perhaps the most beautiful town in the country; it is home to the Cesis Castle, which is the heart of the city. You can explore this castle and indulge in various activities that are organized here for tourists and locals alike. Simply put, Cesis is an absolutely charming and quaint town; you can breathe in some positive vibes by exploring this city.
Gauja National Park
It is the largest national park in the country. The park got its name from the Gauja River that runs along the area. One of the most impressive and unique attributes of Gauja National Park is it is a hilly region, and Latvia mostly is a flat country, but there are a few places where the area is hilly. Apart from engaging in hiking or mountain biking, you can also indulge in other activities like exploring the caves, canoeing, camping, etc.