An authentic experience beyond the usual tourist routes. Latvia – it's so much more than just Riga!
While many travellers choose to visit popular and well-known cities like Riga or Jurmala, Latvia also has other unique and attractive small towns or villages. Also, the regions of Latvia, away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, are home to interesting and unusual sights that are ideal for travellers looking for alternatives to the usual tourist destinations.
Travelling to the regions allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the true essence of Latvia, avoiding large crowds and enjoying a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. Many of these places offer the opportunity to feel the magic of the regions of Latvia and traditional Latvian hospitality.
The nature in the regions of Latvia is unique. It offers wonderful opportunities to enjoy beautiful landscapes, such as the national nature parks of Latvia, the plains and rye fields of Zemgale, the rocky coastline of Vidzeme and the magnificent landscapes on the banks of the Gauja River, the Kurzeme coast or the lakes of Latgale.In this article, learn more about individual small towns in Latvia and get inspired to visit some authentic and interesting sites.
Small towns and villages
The historical heritage of Latvia’s small towns and villages is truly impressive and noteworthy. For example, Kuldīga has the widest waterfall in Europe, where flying fish can be seen, Ludza is an ancient Latgale town in a picturesque area, with a wonderful old town built between lakes, with a castle in the middle of the city, or Cēsis, where you can feel the atmosphere of the Crusader era.
Villages on the seashore, such as Jūrkalne, invite you to experience sandy cliffs, hear the wind or see the evening sun setting into the sea! The most remote towns of Latvia, such as Alūksne, offer breathtaking landscapes in all seasons, peace and a sense of freedom, a breath of fresh air!
In our small towns and villages, you will have the opportunity to get to know the “other” Latvia – unhurried, unique and mysterious.
Kandava
Kandava is one of the oldest and most beautiful small towns in Latvia, which amazes with its historical charm and natural beauty. This town is in the Kurzeme region on the Abava River and is famous for its medieval history and castle ruins, wooden architecture and the oldest stone bridge in the Baltics, built in 1873. Kandava is a real pearl for those who want to enjoy an authentic and peaceful atmosphere. It is a place where everyone will find interesting sights for themselves.
Viesīte
Viesīte is a small and charming town in the Sēlija region, offering exciting adventures. The town combines a rich history with modern culture and a welcoming atmosphere. The town is known for its railway station and museums and offers an unforgettable experience for both adults and children.
Rūjiena
Rūjiena is a small but very attractive town, which can boast unique history, cultural heritage and pleasant, homely atmosphere. Located near the Estonian border, Rūjiena delights visitors with its rural charm and a welcoming community atmosphere. The locals are proud of their rich history and cultural traditions, which makes this town an ideal destination for both history enthusiasts and families looking for a peaceful and interesting vacation.
Ikšķile
Ikšķile is a charming and historic small town located on the picturesque banks of the Daugava River. It is one of the oldest settlements in the country, boasting a rich history and culture. The atmosphere of the town combines historical memories and a modern rhythm, pleasing both locals and visitors alike. Ikšķile is ideal for both short daily trips and longer visits, offering a wide combination of cultural and natural beauties.
Saulkrasti
Saulkrasti is a beautiful Latvian town located on the Baltic Sea coast, known for its idyllic beaches, rich nature and peaceful atmosphere. This place is ideal for those looking for a refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering both relaxation and active recreation opportunities for travellers of all ages. Saulkrasti is not only a place of natural beauty, but also proudly holds a rich historical and cultural heritage that can be felt in every corner of the city. Nature and romance lovers are fond of the Saulkrasti White Dune Trail and breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.
Pāvilosta
Pāvilosta is a lovely place right on the Baltic Sea coast. Pāvilosta piers are a popular walking spot for both locals and visitors. The new promenade connects the city and the more than 300-metre-long North Pier, part of which has been preserved as part of a historic stone pile. The South Pier is longer and suitable for strollers. When returning from a walk, adventure seekers can go to the renovated army tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from above.
Ludza
Ludza is an ancient Latgale town in a picturesque area, with a wonderful old town built between lakes, with a castle in the middle of the town, a church on top of a hill and wonderful wooden and brick one- and two-story houses. Narrow streets and 19th-century buildings with closed courtyards have been an integral part of the Ludza town landscape for several centuries, and its old town is one of the five monuments of urban development in the country.
Tērvete
Tērvete is home to cultural and historical attractions and interesting sights related to the ancient Latvian tribe – the Semigallians, who once lived in this area. However, the most popular tourist attraction in this area is the Tervete Nature Park. The park features wooden sculptures, walking trails, bridges and footbridges that lead travellers through the ancient valley of the Tērvete River and introduce them to the fairy-tale world of the Latvian writer Anna Brigadere. Tērvete Nature Park is an ideal and hospitable place for families with children and everyone who can look at the world through the eyes of a child, enjoying the connection between nature and fairy tales.
Unusual and interesting objects
Latvia also has many interesting objects and places of interest that are further away in the regions, but by carefully planning your trip, you will be able to discover and truly enjoy these places.
Ethnic Culture Centre “Suiti”
The Suiti ethnic group, living in isolation as a small Catholic community in the Lutheran Kurzeme region, have preserved what is a rarity in other parts of Latvia – their character, customs, national costumes, as well as elements and objects of traditional culture. You can see this phenomenon at the Ethnic Culture Centre “Suiti”, located in Alsunga parish, Kuldīga region.
Skrīveri Food Complex Candy Workshop
It’s one thing to hear or read about Skrīveri “Gotiņa” candies, but it’s quite another to experience them for yourself and see how they are made! Skrīveri Food Factory offers an opportunity to enjoy a tour where you can learn about the company’s history, view a collection of candy wrappers, and get acquainted with ancient tools. During the tour, a tasting is also offered, as well as a candy wrapping master class. Visitors are shown the techniques and given training so that everyone can take home their own specially wrapped candy.
Katvari Manor Park Linden Alley
On the Limbaži side is the Katvari Manor Park, which is popular with travellers because of its unusual, even spooky linden alley. The Katvari Manor Park is about 15 hectares in size, and part of it is located on the shore of Lake Katvari. Linden alleys with relaxation corners stretch right along the lakeshore terraces. The oldest linden trees are 400 years old and four to five metres high.
Valmiermuiža Craft Brewery
You are welcome to take a tour of the Valmiermuiža brewery to see the leisurely brewing of beer with your own eyes. Valmiermuiža storytellers will show you how Valmiermuiža's underground water, special malt, noble hops and yeast are used to make delicious, natural, royal beer for the festive table. The visit will allow you to experience exquisite nuances of taste and learn the subtleties of enjoying beer.
Latgale Culinary Heritage Centre “Šmakovka”
The exhibition offered by the largest Šmakovka Museum in Latvia, or the Latgale Culinary Heritage Centre “Šmakovka”, tells a modern and fascinating story about this traditional strong drink of Latgale. The Šmakovka exhibition in Daugavpils is not only the largest, but also the most modern in Latvia, dedicated to this drink, which is part of the culinary heritage of Latgale. Visitors can get acquainted with the culture and traditions of Daugavpils and the Latgale region, see authentic drink production equipment and understand the process of producing Šmakovka.
Bridge to nowhere
A bridge that has no access roads? Yes, indeed, such a bridge exists! The Bridge to Nowhere is reminiscent of the once planned construction of the Tukums – Kuldīga narrow-gauge railway, which was started in the late 1930s. The construction of the railway was interrupted by World War II, but the bridge that was built has remained in the middle of the meadow, not demolished, to this day. In 2008, the Bridge to Nowhere was included in the European Cultural Heritage List “Unusual Cultural Heritage”.
Ludza Craftsmen Centre
The Ludza Crafts Center is located at the picturesque foot of the Ludza Castle Mound. The craftsmen here offer guests the opportunity to learn traditional craft skills and enjoy Latgalian cuisine, while the centre itself is a unique place with a pleasant and warm atmosphere.
Straupe Farmers Market
In Cēsis municipality, you can get to know and buy local products at the Straupe Farmers Market – both delicacies and practical items for the home. The Straupe Farmers Market is a favourite shopping spot for local residents. Twice a month, local farmers, home producers and craftsmen gather here to offer their own grown and crafted products. The market is in a unique cultural and historical building complex – the Straupes Horse Post, which surprises with its historical charm and creativity.
