To fully enjoy the winter mood, we invite you to visit these four Latvian cities, which offer a wide variety of activities during this season.
Riga
Riga, the capital city of Latvia, is the best winter destination – Old Riga becomes the winter wonderland and lets you enjoy mulled wine and gingerbread cookies while taking a slow stroll through the little streets or visiting one of many romantic cafes where you can sit by the window sipping hot peppermint tea and watching the snowflakes slowly falling.
Ogre
Definitely make the city of Ogre one of your winter destinations – entire city becomes illuminated with Christmas lights and brightens the dark evenings. You can enjoy a scenic walk along the river or cross-country skiing as well as experience a dog sled ride through the snow in the Ogre Blue Hills nature park. Ogre is a convenient destination as it is close to Riga and easily accessible by public transport.
More information about Ogre, its nature, attractions and dining options: www.visitogre.lv
Ventspils
Ventspils is a port city located by the Baltic Sea on the western coast of Latvia. One of the traditional place where citizens of Venstpils celebrate New Year’s Eve is Ventspils Lielais Square, where at night, the fountains are lit creating a special mood for the visitors and passers-by. During the day, the Science Centre VIZIUM will be the best destination to dive into future and discover exciting paths of science.
Sigulda
Sigulda is a town in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, 53 kilometres from the capital city Riga. This city is traditionally perceived as an autumn destination, but you can find so many activities to enjoy in winter as well. For example, take a ride on the Vučko soft bob at the Sigulda bobsleigh track.
Or plan an active holiday by visiting one of 4 skiing slopes – Sigulda City ski track, Reina track, Kaķīškalns, Fischer Cross Country Ski Centre, or even go down the inflatable tube sliding track “Almucas”.
Travel Routes
We offer you to enjoy the festive season by going on a weekend trip to Latgale, where you will find activities for art lovers, as well as wonderful natural views and the opportunity to enjoy cultural events.
Daugavpils Fortress
Daugavpils Fortress is a wonderful place to go for a stroll in the winter. It's the only early 19th century military fortification of its kind in Northern Europe that has been preserved without major alterations. Visit Mark Rothko Art Centre – a multi-functional contemporary art and culture centre located in the building of the Daugavpils Fortress.
Mākoņkalns hill
Mākoņkalns (Padebešu kalns) reaches the height of 247.4 metres and is located near Lake Rāzna. At the top are the ruins of the legendary Volkenberg Castle. The road up the hill leads along a picturesque path with a panoramic view of the surroundings, including the nearby Lake Ubagova.
Lūznava Manor
Lūznava Manor is in the village of Lūznava, around 22 kilometres from the city of Rēzekne. The manor was built in a romanticised Art Nouveau style and granted the status of a State Protected Cultural Monument. There is also a roughly kilometre-long path that leads through the park, which is illuminated during the dark hours of the day.
Embassy of Latgale GORS
The Embassy of Latgale GORS is a world-class acoustic concert hall located in the city of Rēzekne. Cultural heritage and ancient values, traditions and creation, the language and events, the most significant global trends, art, culture, dance, and songs converge here.
You can see and book events here: biletes.latgalesgors.lv
More information about city Rēzekne.
Learn more about attractions, accommodations and catering by visiting Latgale Tourism homepage: latgale.travel
Eat & Sleep
Get to know the coziest winter restaurants, hotels and bars – your gateway to winter fairy tale. These hotels and restaurants throughout Latvia will not only delight the taste buds, but also offer a scenic atmosphere, allowing you to fully enjoy the cold but wonderful winter weather.
Jonathan Spa Estate
Jonathan Spa Estate is a luxurious hotel in Amatciems, Vidzeme County, 90 km from Riga. A true winter paradise with a unique landscape to enjoy slow living.
Zoltners
Zoltners is a restaurant and hotel in Tērvete, Zemgale County, 80 km from Riga. Here you can experience countryside peace and forget the city rush.
Silene Resort and Spa
Silene Resort and Spa is located in Latgale County, 270 km from Riga, providing a breathtaking view while you enjoy the Spa rituals. www.silene.lv
Goldingen room
Goldingen room is an Italian restaurant in Kuldiga, Kurzeme County, 150 km from Riga, famous both for its menu and interior. Restaurant is located in the Old Town Hall Square where the central Christmas tree is lit up in a special ceremony.
Riga Black Magic
Modern history of the bar “Riga Black Magic” in the city of Riga intertwines with the history of “Riga Black Balsam” – a drink that will keep you warm in the winter.
