Highlights
Riga, the largest of the Baltic capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the undisputed star — a beautifully preserved medieval old town of cobbled lanes, guild halls, the House of the Blackheads and soaring church spires, wrapped by one of the world's finest collections of ornate Art Nouveau architecture. Its Central Market (in former Zeppelin hangars), buzzing café scene and lively nightlife add energy.
Just outside the capital, the seaside resort of Jūrmala offers long white-sand beaches, pine forests and whimsical wooden villas, a favoured summer escape. Inland, the Gauja National Park around Sigulda — the 'Latvian Switzerland' — is a lush river valley of medieval castles (Turaida), caves, forests and adventure activities.
Western Latvia's Kurzeme region brings the atmospheric town of Kuldīga with Europe's widest waterfall, and the wild Cape Kolka where two seas meet. Latvia's deep connection to nature and folk tradition — vast forests for berry- and mushroom-picking, and the epic Song and Dance Festival — underpins a country that's both cultured and wonderfully green.
When to go
May to September is the best time — mild to warm, with long, bright days ideal for Riga, the coast and the forests, and the lively Midsummer (Jāņi) celebrations in June.
Summer (June-August) is warmest and busiest, perfect for the beaches of Jūrmala and outdoor festivals. Autumn brings golden forests and crisp air. Winter (December-March) is cold, snowy and dark but atmospheric, with Riga's Christmas market (the city claims the first-ever Christmas tree) and cosy cafés. Spring is a fresh thaw. For the old town, coast and nature at their best, aim for the long-lit months of late spring through summer.
Visa & entry
This country is part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities (including UK, US, Canadian, Australian and others) can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, while others need a Schengen visa in advance. The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors is being phased in, so check whether it applies by your travel date. A passport valid at least three months beyond your stay is required. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality and the ETIAS status on official EU/national sources before you travel.
Health & safety
Latvia is a safe and stable country with low violent crime, and Riga is an easy, welcoming city. The main issues are petty theft and pickpocketing in the busiest tourist parts of Riga's old town and around transport hubs, and some overpriced or scammy bars in the old town aimed at tourists (check prices, avoid touts and 'gentlemen's clubs'). Use official taxis or ride-hailing (Bolt).
The genuine risks are seasonal — winter cold, ice and short daylight. Healthcare is good. Roads are decent, with winter conditions to note. Check your government's advisory before departure, though Latvia is generally very safe and easy for tourists.
Getting around
Latvia is compact and easy to explore. Riga's old town is walkable, and the city has trams, buses and trolleybuses, easily used with tickets or the app; ride-hailing (Bolt) is cheap and ubiquitous. Comfortable, affordable intercity buses (and some trains) connect Riga with Sigulda, Jūrmala (an easy train ride), and the regions, and link to the other Baltic capitals.
For the national parks, Kurzeme coast and rural castles, a hire car adds flexibility on good, quiet roads (winter tyres mandatory in the cold months). Given the short distances, buses and trains cover the main sights, with a car ideal for deeper rural exploration.
Money
Latvia uses the Euro and is highly card-friendly — cards and contactless are accepted almost everywhere, from cafés to transport, so you rarely need much cash, though a little is handy for markets, small vendors and tips. ATMs are widely available.
Latvia is moderately priced — more affordable than the Nordics but no longer a bargain, offering good value in the region. Tipping is customary but modest — around 10% in restaurants for good service (check if already added), and rounding up for taxis and guides. Riga offers excellent value for dining and nightlife compared to Western Europe.
Latvia