Just an hour’s drive from the capital grants you the wonderful opportunity to be able to visit some of the country’s most impressive architectural monuments.
Follow historic footprints through romantic Latvian towns. Enjoy the amazing landscapes of Gauja National Park. Soak in the tranquillity and beauty of any of Latvia’s beaches in the Gulf of Riga - it’s all waiting for you.
Sigulda
Sigulda has unforgettable landscapes that include the picturesque banks of the old valley of the River Gauja. Due to its beautiful mountainous landscapes Sigulda is often referred to as Latvia's Switzerland.
The medieval castle ruins and the new castle, along with the legendary Gūtmanis Cave, Krimulda, and Turaida are some of the most interesting places that you can visit while you are there.
The gardens of Turaida Castle are home to the Rose of Turaida grave which is connected to one of the best-known love legends in Latvia - the legend of the Rose of Turaida.
The amazing view across the old valley of the River Gauja can best be enjoyed from the aerial tram that connects both banks of the River Gauja.
It is easy to get from Riga to Sigulda by train. It costs around 2.10 Euros and it takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to get there.
Cēsis
Cēsis is one of the oldest towns in Latvia. Visitors can feel the breath of the Middle Ages when they climb the tower at the Livonian Order’s Cēsis Castle, or learn the legends and stories about Riekstu Hill - which was inhabited by the Vends - or get to know the local architecture - the town’s buildings, the church, and its parks - by strolling through the narrow streets of the old town.
Rundāle Palace
Rundāle Palace is a highly significant monument of the baroque and rococo architecture styles. The palace was designed by the famous Italian architect of Russian origin, Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli.
The impressive palace façade, the splendid interior, the amazingly spacious French Park, and the fantastic rose garden will fascinate all visitors.
The palace is best visited by car or on an organized tour. Traveling by public transport requires a change of bus at the town of Bauska, which would be time-consuming for a day trip.
Jūrmala
Whilst you are in Jūrmala, you will be able to soak in the atmosphere of the famous resort and take a stroll on one of the oldest streets in the city - Jomas Street.
The golden sandy beaches, the serene blue waters of the Gulf of Riga, and the healing air and peacefulness of the pine forests all attract anyone who needs to relax.
What’s more, Dzintari Concert Hall is well-known, not only in Latvia, as it offers a very full and diverse program of events.
Jūrmala from all our day trip suggestions is the closest to Rīga and the easiest to reach by train. It costs around 1.50 Euros and it takes 30 minutes to get there. As Jurmala is a long coastal city there are plenty of train stops to hop off, but the most popular are Majori and Dzintati.
Jelgava
Jelgava attracts visitors with its beautiful Jelgava Palace, which was designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli and which contains the burial vault of the duke of Courland.
If you climb the tower of Holy Trinity Church, you will be able to take a look at exciting historical exhibitions and also see a panoramic view of Jelgava from the observation point on the ninth floor, as well as being able to enjoy a tasty meal at the restaurant that is located in the tower.
Saulkrasti
If you want to enjoy a relaxing time on the coast, Saulkrasti is the place to be. Take the 3.6km walk along the forest trail which lies beside Saulkrasti beach, from the White Dune (Baltā kāpa) to the Sun Bridge (Saules tilts), and enjoy the unforgettable panorama of Pēterupe Valley.
The interesting Bicycle Museum attracts visitors with its historical atmosphere and exciting collection of old bicycles.
