In Riga you can enjoy the charmingly ancient Old Town and the illustrious architecture of Art Nouveau, learn about Latvian history and art in museums and numerous galleries, visit medieval castles and magnificent Baroque palaces.
Out-of-town excursions can be no less exciting. Those who are keen on physical activities can try boating or rafting, or rent a bicycle for a one-day or up to a week-long trip. Almost every rural district has a nature trail; you can also go on a seaside hike for several days. Besides, Latvia has ample opportunities for bird-watching.
The culturally inclined can pick and choose — from the Early Music Festival in the Rundāle Palace to the Positivus Festival at the seaside in Salacgrīva.
Families with children can spend their free-time on the beach or in aquaparks, or venture on the so-called hurdle tracks put up in adventure parks. Couples can enjoy a romantic twosome while walking in the nature or taking a rose-petal bath in one of the SPA facilities in the Latvian countryside. Seniors too can wander off in the nature or admire architectural objects. Budget travellers can pack their maps and go on an exciting trip along the sea coastline or pay visits to small Latvian towns.
When travelling in Latvia it is possible to combine pleasure with business — there is a wide range of possibilities for medical tourism, such as sanatoriums in Jūrmala or dental services, which are considerably cheaper than in Western Europe or America. Latvia has suffered through two world wars and met the regiments of Napoleon, Ivan the Terrible and others, which makes it an exploration ground for adepts of military history.
Many hotels are adapted also for people with special needs. Not all restaurants can be easily accessed in a wheelchair, though you can find plenty of eateries which are disabled-friendly.
Latvian pubs offer a variety of delicious meals catering to different tastes, be it Latvian cuisine, something more exotic and, of course, fast food. All in all, Latvia is a safe country, regardless of one’s skin colour or religious beliefs. Even gay people have their own clubs.
