Top Ten Attractions In Latvia

Visit Latvia

Here's the list of top 10 attractions in Latvia for travellers. The capital of Latvia is Riga. Latvia is one of the least populous and least densely populated countries of the European Union. The official language is Latvian and the currency is called Lats (Ls).

Forget soviet days, Latvia of today is vibrant, enigmatic and altogether mesmerising. Refreshingly unpretentious, Latvia manages to tantalise even the most jaded traveller. After long, dark winters, Latvians seem determined to soak up as much light as possible and the whole country exudes a frenetic, turbocharged energy. Beer gardens pop up in even the smallest villages and revellers slug pints well into the night. Its natural offerings are also a drawcard, like Gauja National Park in Eastern Latvia, a pine-scented paradise.

1. Nativity of Christ Cathedral, Riga

The Nativity of Christ Cathedral is a magnificent Orthodox Cathedral located in the Latvian capital Riga. It was constructed in the late 19th century in traditional Neo-Byzantine style and it hosts some famous icons by Vasily Vereshchagin. The interior of the cathedral is spectacular with the images and other holy object being lightened from the little windows. The Nativity of Christ Cathedral is considered to be one of the biggest Orthodox temples in the Baltic region. With its five domes and impressive facade, this cathedral has become one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Riga. Don't miss it!

2. St. Peters Church, Riga

Saint Peter's Church is another landmark of the city picture of Riga. The original construction was inspired by the St. Mary's church in Rostock. The Lutheran temple is believed to date from the early 13th century although it has originally been built as Catholic Church. Since 16th century, however, it has become Lutheran. Because of its numerous destructions, the facade has gone through several stages from Gothic, Romanesque to Baroque styles while its interior remains Gothic. The famous tower of the temple attracts many tourists because its top offers the most spectacular view towards Riga's landscape.

3. Riga Castle

Riga Castle, located on the Daugava river banks, is a necessary stop during your visit to the Latvian capital. Today, the castle serves as museum and residence of the president. Originally, the castle was built in 14th century by the Livonian Order although it has gone through several reconstructions, all of which have added something different to its appearance. For example, its towers were reconstructed into round towers so that they represent the modern style in 17th century.  Be sure not to miss the Golden Hall, the Hall of Coats of Arms and State Festival Hall and explore much more in Riga Castle!

4. Freedom Monument, Riga

The Freedom Monument in Riga is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who took part in the Latvian War of Independence. It consists of column, sculptures, while the centre of the monument features tetragonal shapes minifying over one another. The bar-reliefs and statues are systemized in thirteen groups representing the history and culture of Latvia. On the top of the column, there is a copper statue of Liberty raising three stars. Visit the monument between 9 AM and 6 PM because the guard of honour changes every hour during that time. Don't miss the symbol of Latvian freedom and independence!

5. House of the Blackheads, Riga

The House of the Blackheads is the crown jewel of Old Town in Riga. The impressive building was constructed in 14th century and it has been destroyed by the Soviet Army, but also rebuilt in 2001. The building was used by the guild of unmarried merchants called the Blackheads who were some of the most wealthy and important people in 18-19th centuries. During the 19th century two wings have been added to the original construction and the second floor was transformed into celebration hall. The House of the Blackheads will fascinate you with its Dutch Renaissance facade!

6. The Cat House

The Cat House is marvelous building, located in the Old Town of Riga. It was constructed in the beginning of 20th century and their name comes from the two black cats situated on the tops of the two towers. The house represents a combination between medieval architectural elements and some of Art Nouveau. According to urban legends, the owner of the Cat House actually wanted the sculptures of the angry-looking cats to point towards the Great Guild, because they rejected him. Regardless those legends, the Cat House deserves a spot in your sight-seeing tour in Riga!

7. Cesis Castle

Cesis Castle is one of the most spectacular fortresses in Latvia and the whole Baltic region. It was built in 13th century by the Order of Livonian brothers, which were German crusaders.  The stone castle really resembles the description of every fairy tale and considering its amazing garden with lake, flowers and little paths, it just makes the romantic picture complete. Today, you can visit the History Museum located nearby, the Exhibition Hall and the oldest brewery in the country. Don't miss your chance to explore this medieval castle and hear all the legends about Cesis Castle!

8. Gutmanis Cave

Gutmanis Cave is the record breaker when it comes to deepest caves in the Baltic region with its 19 meters depth, 10 meters and 12 meters width. Many legends are covered under the Gutmanis Cave, as according to one of them Liv chieftain Rindaugas kept his wife there because she was unfaithful and her tears have formed the caves. According to another a famous healer who is believed to named it, lived there and used the waters for meditation. However, you can still see the wall paintings telling the tragic story of a princess, and that is another reason to visit the Gutmanis Cave!

9. Turaida Castle

Turaida Castle is a beautiful medieval castle located on the Gauja river bank. It was built in 13th century for the archbishop of Riga, who used exactly the place of the wooden castle of Liv. The castle was important fortress during the Middle Ages and it has been under Swedish, Polish and Russian rule. After the reconstruction in 20th century, Turaida Castle has become one of the most popular sights in Latvia as it is part of Turaida Museum Reserve which features several other attractions in the area such as the oldest wooden church and Dainu Hill. Explore the medieval side of Latvia!

10. Ventas Rapid

Ventas Rapid is Europe widest waterfall although it is not the waterfall you expect as the water falls from merely 2 meters. It is more often referred as a rapid but still it is the widest of them with its impressive 249 metres. The Venta rapid is located near the small town of Kulgida. You can actually reach this natural phenomenon walking through a brick bridge from the centre of the city. You will be fascinated by the change of surroundings from the small village to the vast splashing water of Venta River. It is better to visit it in the spring to fully enjoy the small water rapids turning the river into white foam.    

Tourists can also enjoy the wild beauty of Latvia's unspoilt sea coast, which is 500 km long and consists mainly of white, soft sandy beaches. Forests, which cover approximately a half of Latvia's territory, offer many nature trails and nature parks. The best time to travel to Latvia is from June to mid September, when it is warm and plenty of local food is available. January and February are the coldest months. October and November have autumn rains and daylight is short.  

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