Sights of Latvia: Top 25

Latvia can rightfully be called the heart of the Baltic States, because it contains all the best that this region can boast of. The ancient architecture of cities borders on the modesty and charm of villages, modern multi-storey business centers are adjacent to centuries-old castles and palaces, churches and cathedrals that keep the mysteries of the past. There are also a lot of wellness centers where you can effectively strengthen your body with the help of special procedures. The locals are tactful and courteous in a European way, while they are very hospitable and committed to centuries-old traditions. If you come here for the first time and do not know what to see in Latvia, then especially for you we have compiled a list of popular places in this country, which includes the most interesting sights of Latvia. Check them out and be sure to include these places in your travel itinerary for this country.

What to see in Latvia first of all

In the search for the ideal points of the tourist route, do not forget that you will need guides in Latvia, on whose shoulders you can shift the worries about the information and organizational part of the tour. In the case of self-guided sightseeing, be sure to check at what hours they are open to tourists and how much admission costs.

1. House of the Blackheads (Riga)

The House of the Blackheads on the Town Hall Square in Riga

The House of the Blackheads in Riga is one of the main symbols of the Latvian capital and the sights of Latvia. Cultural events, concerts, exhibitions, and excursions are regularly held here. The house also temporarily became the residence of the Latvian president, in connection with the renovation of the Riga Castle.

The foundation of the House of the Blackheads dates back to 1334. Since its foundation, various meetings and events of Riga societies have been held here. By the end of the 15th century, the building was leased to the Blackheads Society, after which it was later named.

Who are the Blackheads? This brotherhood of young Riga merchants was under the patronage of St. George, but later Saint Maurice was considered the patron of the brotherhood, whose symbol in the form of a black head began to be depicted on the coat of arms of the brotherhood.

During the Second World War, the House of the Blackheads suffered significantly, and in 1999 it was rebuilt almost from scratch. Nowadays, it houses a museum and a concert hall, which often hosts classical music concerts.

What should you pay attention to when visiting the House of the Blackheads?

The luxurious facade of the building combines the values of different styles inherent in different eras; Inside, in the executive rooms, luxurious interior items attract attention — crystal chandeliers, painted ceilings, portraits of rulers in gilded carved frames, the coat of arms of the brotherhood, colorful stained glass windows; In the museum you can see various props of representatives of the brotherhood — snuffboxes, paintings, silverware and ceramics By visiting the celebrations in the House of the Blackheads, you can see how the entire interior comes to life during the celebration, and how a special aura of a secular holiday is created here.

Official website: http://www.melngalvjunams.lv/en

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2. Rundal Palace Museum (Zemgale region)

The former country residence of the Dukes of Courland

The Duke’s bedroom in the Zairon Rundal Palace

An outstanding architectural monument, the Rundal Palace, which became a joint creation of the outstanding architect Rastrelli, sculptor Graff and the Italian artists Zucchi and Martini, is the most important cultural heritage and a valuable landmark of Latvia. This architectural masterpiece is located in the very center of the country, in the cultural and historical region of Zemgale.

The entire palace complex occupies a huge territory of more than 60 hectares, the main part of which is occupied by parks — hunting and French. In the vicinity of the complex you will also find something to see in Latvia — the nature there is very picturesque, while another attraction takes place very close — the Bauska Nature Park.

The Rundal Palace includes 138 rooms on two floors, but the interior, unfortunately, has not been preserved — the decoration was not spared by devastation and war. Therefore, the exhibits that are presented in the palace museum were purchased and brought from other museums. The restoration work was carried out by the best specialists from Latvia and Russia. According to sketches and historical records, the decoration was restored — interior decoration, wallpaper, chandeliers, furniture, utensils were recreated. Now the castle, saved at the cost of painstaking efforts, receives numerous visitors.

In addition to the castle itself, the park area deserves no less attention. So, the French garden was created back in the 18th century, and since then its design has never changed. The park is a classic example of European landscape art. Nowadays, costume shows are periodically held here, fireworks are organized.

Official website: http://rundale.net/ru/

3. Jurmala (20 km from Riga)

Wooden descent to the Gulf of Riga

The resort town of Jurmala is a real pearl of Latvia on the coast of the Gulf of Riga. The first resort villages of Jurmala began to form here in the 18th century, and already in the 19th century, most areas of the city acquired the status of resorts. For more than two centuries, Jurmala has been a place for a great and interesting holiday, and you will definitely find something to see in Latvia if you get to this extraordinarily beautiful city.

The list of Latvian attractions in Jurmala includes more than 400 buildings of different orientation. A characteristic architectural feature of the buildings are the facades, richly decorated with lace wood carvings. The choice of attractions is wide, and the list can be supplemented endlessly.

The open—air museum reflects the life of a Latvian village, where several centuries ago there were only dilapidated fishing shacks and boats on the territory of modern buildings. The Museum of Prison History, founded in 1999, was opened in honor of the 80th anniversary of the country’s prison system, and today exhibits mannequins, prisoners, executioners, an isolation pit simulator and various prison props. The Aspasia and Rainis Museum, built in 1903, houses a lot of personal belongings of the famous Latvian poet Elsa Rosenberg, as well as various furniture and peculiar household items of the past centuries. Livu Aquapark is one of the largest water parks in Europe, it consists of 3 levels and a 25-meter tower. Its design is made in the Caribbean style, and visitors to the water park feel like real pirates on an ancient ship here. The Theater of luminous Paintings presents paintings by the famous artist Ermolaev in two forms: day and night. The transformation of the daytime view of the painting into the night view is a fascinating sight. The Jurmala telohod is the oldest motor ship, which was once the only way to communicate with Riga. Today, you can take an excursion trip from Riga to Jurmala on it.

4. Gauja National Park (Gauja River Valley)

Devonian sandstone cliff along the banks of the Gauja River

To visit some of the sights of Latvia, it is advisable to allocate, perhaps, a multi-day trip at once. Such places include Gauja National Park, which stretches in the Gauja River Valley over an area of more than 900 square kilometers — that’s where there is something to see in Latvia.

It is the largest nature reserve in Latvia, characterized by a variety of landscape forms, numerous springs, cliffs, caves, rocks, outcrops of multicolored sandstone, unique natural and cultural monuments.

In total, there are more than 500 different attractions in the Gauja National Park, including ancient settlements, castles, churches, mills, estates, and many other archaeological, architectural and historical monuments.

For a family holiday, we can recommend places such as:

Vienkochu Park is a wonderful place, the purpose of which is to popularize ancient crafts, here you can try your hand at manual wood processing; Ligatne nature trails provide an opportunity to explore the landscapes characteristic of ancient Gauja, here you can observe many wild animals characteristic of Latvian nature; the cable car from Sigulda to Krimulda is the only one in Latvia An aerial cable car that allows you to explore the local surroundings from a dizzying height and learn a lot about the historical heritage of these two small Latvian towns.

For fans of outdoor activities, there are entertainment that will truly take your breath away – for example, a vertical wind tunnel near Sigulda, jumping from a funicular on an elastic band, the Sigulda toboggan and bobsleigh track, numerous adventure parks.

Official website: http://www.entergauja.com/ru/

See the beautiful places of Latvia in this wonderful video!

5. The city of Kuldiga (150 km from Riga)

The old town of Kuldiga

In the heart of the historical region of Kurzeme, on the Venta River, there is a beautiful provincial town of Kuldiga. It is rightfully considered one of the most picturesque cities in Latvia, because it is here, in a small area, that you can find a lot of amazing sights of Latvia — for example, flying fish, Europe’s largest waterfall, a cave maze and ancient palaces.

Today it is difficult to imagine that several centuries ago this city was an important trading post, ships were built here, grapes were grown, wine from which was even supplied to neighboring countries.

What to visit in Latvia if you have arrived or are passing through the town of Kuldiga?

Kuldig Castle is the first castle in Kuldig, the construction of which was completed in 1245. The fortress was placed in a very beautiful place near the waterfall, and in less than a hundred years the city of Kuldiga grew up around the castle. The fortress is in a dilapidated state — medieval wars and time played a role. But today an attractive city park stretches around the ruins of the fortress. One of the most pleasant and fun summer activities in Kuldig is swimming under the Ventas Rumba waterfall. Everyone can swim under the streams of the waterfall, especially since special pools are equipped for this on the right bank of the Ventas River. In the season from April to May, an amazing sight can be seen in Kuldig on the Ventas River — flying fish. Numerous fish, going to spawn, swims against the current, emerges from the river waters to a height of up to 2.5 meters and tries to storm the barrier in the form of the Ventas Rumba waterfall. The Kuldiga City Museum houses thousands of unique exhibits telling about the rich historical past of Kuldiga.

6. Turaida Castle (Sigulda)

View of the western part of the Turaida Castle

Just 50 kilometers from the Latvian capital there is a beautiful provincial town — Sigulda. His calling card was the honorable landmark of Latvia — the Turaida Castle of the 13th century. Once in the Middle Ages, there was a bishop’s residence, the Livonian Order was located here, and even a garrison of Swedish soldiers was stationed. Today, the fortress preserves the imprint of antiquity, so the castle has acquired the status of a museum complex these days, and a museum reserve has been created on its territories.

The museum complex includes not only the castle, but also a lot of surrounding historical buildings — there are 37 such structures in total. The castle itself was founded in 1214 by the Bishop of Riga on the right bank of the Gauja. Unfortunately, the fortress has not retained its original appearance since those times, so it has undergone a lot of reconstructions, but nevertheless, it has not lost its appearance. Numerous legends about the castle and its inhabitants have survived to this day, as well as the very name of the castle, which means “Divine Garden” in translation.

The key and oldest element of the castle is the main tower. Now an observation deck is equipped on its upper level, and a museum exposition is located on the lower level. In addition to the tower, exhibitions of exhibits are held in the southern and western buildings of the castle. Archaeological excavations have not stopped on the territory of the museum-reserve to this day, new finds are being discovered, which subsequently replenish the museum’s collection.

Today, Turaida Castle has become a popular tourist attraction — along with excursions, holidays, exhibitions, concerts of classical and modern music are regularly organized on its territory.

Official website: http://www.turaida-muzejs

7. Mitava Palace (Jelgava)

The facade of the Mitava Palace from the courtyard side

In 1738, on a flat island between the Lielupe River and its tributaries, the Mitava (Jelgava) Palace, the most important historical landmark of Latvia, was founded by architect Rastrelli. The initiator of the construction was Duke Biron of Courland.

To date, the Mitava Palace is the largest Baroque palace in the Baltic States. The construction of the palace took place in several stages and lasted for several decades.

Previously, in 1737, the territory was cleared for construction — the palace of the Livonian Order of the 14th century was blown up. In 1740, construction was suspended due to the arrest and exile of the Duke. At that time, the palace had not yet been brought under the roof. In 1763, after Biron’s pardon and his return from exile, the construction of the palace resumed. In 1772, the duke finally moved to his residence, but he did not manage to live there for six months before his death. After the duchy joined Russia, the palace changed owners more than once. In 1918, the interior of the palace was completely destroyed by the Russian troops of Bermondt-Avalov, in 1944 the palace was even more severely damaged during the Second World War. Nowadays, a museum has been organized in the palace, where you can see the family tombs of the dukes of Courland and Zemgale. There is practically no information left about the original interiors. Today, the Latvian Agricultural University operates in the palace.

8. Bauska Castle (Bauska)

In the courtyard of the Bau Castle

Bauska is a city in central Latvia, in the Zemgale region. Founded in the 15th century by German knights, today Bauska is rich in historical monuments and preserves the events of centuries-old history, so you will surely find something to visit in Latvia, once in this town. For example, this is confirmed by the Bau Castle, built at the confluence of the Musa and Memsel rivers for the knights of the Livonian Order.

The fortress was surrounded by a system of fortifications, later ceremonial halls and living quarters were erected.

Soon after the construction was completed, a craft and fishing settlement was formed around the castle, which later became the town of Bauska.

The castle was owned by the Livonian Order until 1561, after which it began to regularly change its owners, the ducal court and chancery moved into it.

In 1625, the castle was captured by the Swedes, and in the early 18th century it was completely blown up by order of the Russian Emperor Peter I.

Again, the castle was remembered only in the 20th century, when in 1970 the preserved ruins were subject to a long and careful restoration, after which a museum was opened within its walls. To attract visitors, various events, concerts and festivals are regularly held on the territory of the castle.

The castle complex includes the ducal palace, which houses the exposition, as well as the ruins of the castle of the Livonian Order with an observation tower. The court life of the Middle Ages, holidays and weekdays, outfits, habits, foundations — all the past is reflected in the Bauska Castle very vividly and realistically.

Official website: http://www.bauskaspils.lv/ru/

9. Dinaburg Castle (19 km from Daugavpils)

Miniature layout of Dinaburg Castle

The beginning of the Latvian city, which has repeatedly changed its name (Dinaburg, Nevgin, Dvinsk, Borisoglebsk, Daugavpils), was laid by Dinaburg Castle, erected in 1275 by order of the master of the Livonian Order Ernest Ratzeburg.

This landmark of Latvia had its own difficult history — since the construction of the castle, battles have repeatedly taken place, and it constantly passed into the hands of the Lithuanian, Polish, or Russian authorities.

In 1772, the Dinaburg fortress was ceded to Russia, and construction of the castle began here. The view in which the castle appears now is the fourth in the history of Dinaburg. In 1810, active construction of protective structures began here, the height of the protective shafts reached 11 meters. The fortification work was carried out so efficiently that even a three-day siege by Napoleon’s troops did not allow the fortress to be captured. Since 1813, the construction of the fortress continued — barracks, residential buildings, and four fortress gates were built. In 1827, the construction of a hospital for five hundred people was completed.

In general, the improvement of fortifications continued until 1878, but by the end of the 19th century the fortress had lost its defensive purpose and acquired the status of a fortress-warehouse, where workshops for the manufacture and storage of shells and gunpowder were located.

In the period after the Second World War, in 1947, an aviation school began operating here. The territories of the fortress began to be gradually put in order, sports grounds were equipped, and landscaping took place.

Today, the Dinaburg fortress is an example of fortification art. Despite the numerous trials of time, some forts and ramparts have been preserved intact. Over time, the authorities of Daugavpils expect to turn this complex into a modern cultural center.

10. Kemeri National Park (Jurmala)

Sunset in Kemeri National Park

Kemeri National Park is located in the central region of Latvia — Zemgale, not far from the well-known Jurmala. The area of the park is colossal — more than 38 thousand hectares, and these territories are occupied by forests and swamps, under which hydrogen sulfide mineral water is formed in one of the soil layers. This Latvian landmark is famous for its very rich vegetation and fauna — for example, about 900 ferns, more than 2,200 species of mosses, one hundred and fifty lichens, and more than 500 species of fungi grow here. A quarter of the plants growing in the park are listed in the Red Book of Latvia.

The reserve has created particularly favorable habitat conditions for various birds, which are being monitored and special towers have been erected for this purpose.

The formation of the resort in Kemeri Park was due to the use of the healing properties of hydrogen sulfide springs. Due to the swampiness, the springs were inaccessible for a long time, and no roads were laid to them. However, after the annexation of part of the park to the Russian Empire in 1783, Kemeri began to develop intensively as a resort.

In 1801, Academician Lovitz made a chemical analysis of mineral waters from hydrogen sulfide sources. Research has shown that the waters of the spring have truly miraculous healing properties. Finally, 1838 is considered the year of the resort’s foundation, and this is due to the fact that it was at this time that the first bathhouse was founded on the territory of Kemeri, as well as the resort administration was founded. In 1851-61, a park was laid out here and a whole resort system was created. In the 1930s, the first sanatorium was founded in the park, where they treated with mineral water and mud, and this time is considered the beginning of the heyday of Kemeri. After the difficult years of the Second World War, the second heyday of the resort came, when the sanatorium began to fill up with a huge number of people every year and the developed infrastructure of the park was created.

Sights of Latvia: what else to visit while in Latvia

The country opens up to tourists from different sides, and in order to form a holistic image, we recommend excursions in Latvia to places from the list below. In it you will find both natural wonders and monuments of history and architecture. Take your chance to spend a wonderful vacation here, even if you only have a couple of days left.

11. Old Riga (Riga)

Old Riga Evening

In the very center of the Latvian capital is its historical part — Old Riga. You will definitely find something to see in Latvia if you get to this amazing place – the main sights of Riga are concentrated here in a relatively small area. Almost all the buildings of Old Riga represent important sights of Latvia, and through traffic on the streets of this area is closed. Therefore, you can take a leisurely stroll here, exploring the architectural monuments and feeling the atmosphere of antiquity.

Whatever your route, it is worth noting that getting to know Riga is still worth starting from the Old Riga. When you get to its narrow cobbled streets, you seem to get into the past several centuries ago: strict Gothic cathedrals and charming medieval houses, ancient courtyards, numerous museums, coffee shops with amazingly delicious cakes – all this conveys the unique flavor of the Middle Ages.

Highlighting the list of memorable places of Old Riga, it is worth paying special attention to the following:

Riga Castle of the 13th century on the banks of the Daugava River; Dome Cathedral with one of the world’s largest organ; Peter’s Tower — the hallmark of Riga, one of its main church buildings; Town Hall Square — the main square of the city, which became the venue for numerous city events; Swedish Gate — the only gate in the fortress wall of the city, preserved to this day its original appearance; Large and small guilds — buildings that housed unions of like-minded citizens united by occupation; House of the Blackheads — a building owned by the Brotherhood of the Blackheads — an association of young foreign merchants.

12. Aglona Basilica (Aglona village, 250 km from Riga)

Aglona Basilica next to the monastery

The interior of the Aglon Basilica in Aglon Zairon

The Aglon Basilica is a major shrine and landmark of Latvia of international importance. It is located in the east of Latvia, 40 kilometers from Daugavpils.

The first mention of the village of Aglona dates back to 1236. And in 1697, local landowners appealed to the bishop with a request to build a monastery and a school in the village. Later, the first wooden basilica was built here and monasteries for men and women were established.

In 1768, local residents again petitioned for the construction of a capital temple, and by 1789 a stone Baroque basilica had grown on the site of the wooden one, and a monastery building was also erected. Later, when the healing properties of local springs were revealed, in 1824 pump rooms were erected here and a hospital was organized. In 1980, Pope John Paul II, in honor of the 200th anniversary of the basilica, awarded it the title of “minor basilica” – a special status of a Catholic church, giving it a lot of privileges. In 1989, the tradition of pilgrimage to the Aglon Basilica on the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin was resumed. In 1993, Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass at the Basilica of Aglon with the participation of about 400 thousand pilgrims. Nowadays, pilgrims from the Baltic states and Russia come to Aglona every year on August 15, and a divine service is held, attended by many high-ranking officials of the states, Roman priests and heads of other Latvian churches.

13. Open-air Ethnographic Museum (Riga)

Part of the open-air exposition of the Latvian Ethnographic Museum

One of the largest European museums is located in Latvia, just a half-hour drive from its capital. The open—air Ethnographic Museum is something that you should definitely visit in Latvia if your route passes through Riga. Here, on a vast territory of 90 hectares, ancient buildings of the last centuries (17th — 20th centuries) are collected – houses, outbuildings, temples, mills and even entire households with many household items inherent in that era — there are 118 structures in total. All these buildings were dismantled and carefully imported from all Latvian regions, after which they were rebuilt on the territory of the museum.

If we compare the Latvian Ethnographic Museum with other museums of this type, this museum is unique in its own way – its exposition began to form at the beginning of the 20th century. This is an amazing place where you can deeply feel the spirit of antiquity and literally go on a journey through the milestones of Latvian history:

to see the peculiarities, similarities and differences of the Latvian way of life in different centuries; to find out what traditions Latvians have kept for centuries, how they steamed in baths or decorated courtyards, held holidays or engaged in everyday life; to find out how Russian Old Believers lived in such Latvian regions as Lattgale and Kurzeme; to visit ancient churches of different Latvian denominations; visit the museum’s vault with its huge archive; walk through the courtyards of Latvian peasants and artisans, study their household items peculiar to a certain historical period.

Official website: http://brivdabasmuzejs.lv/ru/

14. Botanical Garden (Riga)

Rhododendrons in the Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia

A ten—minute drive from the center of Riga is the “green” landmark of Latvia – the Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia, founded in 1922. For many years since its foundation, the garden has been regularly updated with new plant species from all over the world — in total, about 6 thousand plants grow on the territory of the park with an area of 15 hectares. Today, the botanical garden has become a favorite place for walking and relaxing — here you can leisurely walk along the green alleys, visit many greenhouses and just enjoy nature in the heart of the capital city. Both professional gardeners and ordinary people will find a lot of new and interesting things here.

Among the greenhouses, the main one is the palm greenhouse, where you can study the plants of the subtropics. The succulent greenhouse features plants that have adapted to life in the desert — there are about 700 of them, half of which are cacti. The azalea Greenhouse presents an exposition of 124 species of azaleas, evergreen shrubs obtained as a result of step—by-step crossing. There is a decorative and ecological exposition on the territory of the garden, which includes 7 gardens — rocky, phlox, heather, rhododendron, garden of dahlias, roses and lilies. A small plot of about 100 sq. m. meters in the garden are occupied by artificially created swamps, where cranberries, andromeda and other marsh plants typical of Latvia grow. Every year in mid—July, a gardening festival is held in the park, to which everyone is invited – from professional breeders to simple amateur gardeners.

Official website: https://www.botanika.lu.lv/rus/

15. Latvian National Museum of Art (Riga)

The building of the Latvian National Museum of Art

In the very heart of Riga, namely in its boulevard ring, there is a famous cultural landmark of Latvia — the Latvian National Museum of Art, which has become the largest art repository in the country. The building of the art Museum itself is an impressive architectural monument of national importance. This is the first building in the Baltic States, built specifically to house a museum in it. The building was founded in 1905 by architect Wilhelm Neumann, and its facade is an ensemble of Baroque and classicism styles.

The museum’s collection includes more than 52 thousand exhibits — works by sculptors and artists of the Baltic States and Russia. Not so long ago, the museum underwent a large-scale reconstruction and in 2016 it opened in an updated appearance, but retaining the monumentality of the ancient building.

What can I see in the museum today?

The exhibition of Latvian art of the 19th and 20th centuries presents the history of Latvian art over the past two centuries. In the new exhibition hall, you can get acquainted with temporary exhibitions on topics relevant to our days. There are two terraces on the roof of the museum, from which you can admire the Riga surroundings from a height. Of great interest among visitors is the modernized environment in which you can arrange a full—fledged tour without the services of a guide – by downloading a special application to your smartphone, you can use the capabilities of an interactive electronic guide.

Official website: http://www.lnmm.lv/ru/

16. Daugavpils Fortress (Daugavpils)

The Dinaburg fortress of the early 19th century on both banks of the Western Dvina River in the city of Daugavpils

An important role in shaping the portrait of the country is played by the historical and architectural sights of Latvia, the presentation of which will not do without an ancient historical monument in the city of Daugavpils – the last bastion—type fort in Europe. The fortress, located on an area of 150 hectares on both sides of the Daugava River, resembles the layout of a military town in its structure, with a parade ground located in the center, around which there are a number of administrative, economic structures and barracks buildings. Some of the buildings are decorated in the Empire style, while the other part of the buildings is decorated in the Gothic style. Today, the fortress houses a center for contemporary art with works by many Latvian and foreign artists, as well as an Art center with samples of paintings, graphics, photography and original ceramics.

Official website: http://dinaburg

17. The Dome Cathedral (Riga)

View from the central (Dome) square in the Old Town to the Riga Dome Cathedral

In the very heart of the country on the shores of the Baltic Sea, the city of Riga, there is a recognizable metropolitan symbol — the Riga Dome Cathedral. Latvia’s largest cathedral is also one of its leading spiritual centers, where concerts of sacred and organ music are held. The architectural ensemble, in addition to the cathedral itself, includes the Dome Monastery with the city’s oldest museum of navigation, and the Cross Gallery. The origins of the majestic building date back to 1211, when its first stone was laid — at that time the temple was supposed to become a symbol of success in the conquest of Livonia. The interior design of the cathedral, which can be seen now, is the result of restoration work of the 19th century: the rather strict and ascetic Gothic interior is made in white tones, only its long and narrow windows are decorated with colorful stained glass windows, and in some places luxurious elements of wood carving complement the decoration.

Official website: http://www.doms.lv/index/

18. St. Peter’s Church (Riga)

The spire of St. Peter’s Church among the red tiled roofs of Riga’s Old Town

Interior of St. Peter’s Church in Riga Diliff

In search of what to see in Latvia in winter, for active recreation you can go to the ski resorts of Sigulda or Madonna, or you can visit the beautiful winter Riga, with its medieval castles and other ancient buildings. One of these structures is the iconic St. Peter’s Church, which stands out against the background of urban panoramas with a tall spire topped with a cockerel figure. Today it is an active Lutheran church, where masses are regularly held, and on its recognizable spire, at a height of 71 meters, there is an observation deck with a wonderful surrounding view. The date of the church’s construction is considered to be 1209, when it became the main temple for the privileged persons of feudal society. The interior halls made of pink brick have a strict decoration with laconic decorative elements made of carved wood and ancient epitaphs.

Official website: http://peterbaznica .

19. Waterfall on the Vente River (Kuldiga)

Venta River and the widest waterfall in Europe – Venta Waterfall in Kuldig

Despite the fact that Latvia cannot boast as powerful waterfalls, say, as Niagara or Iguazu, but on the territory of this country there is the widest Vent waterfall in Europe. Its width is about 110 meters, and in high water all 280 meters, although the height is quite small — from 1.6 to 2.2 meters across the entire width. Due to the specific shape of the rapids from which the water falls, the waterfall has an amazing zigzag line. Regularly, at certain points in autumn and spring, there is an exciting sight here — spawning fish trying to jump over the river threshold, and several centuries ago this feature began to be used for fishing. Since then, Kuldiga has been known as a city where fish are caught in the air — for example, during the spawning period, 80 to 100 salmon can be caught per day.

20. Riga Castle (Riga)

View of Riga Castle from the Daugava side in Old Riga

The most important cultural attractions of Latvia are concentrated in its capital, and one of them is the Riga Castle, which nowadays is the official residence of the Latvian president. It is located in the Old Town of Riga, on the banks of the Daugava River. The beginning of the history of the large-scale castle dates back to the time of the confrontation between the inhabitants of Riga and the Livonian Order in the 14th century, when the knights of the order decided to build a country fortress. It turned out to be very impressive, but another conflict in the 15th century literally wiped this building off the face of the earth. The building was nevertheless completely restored, and over the centuries it was repeatedly rebuilt and supplemented with the arrival of new authorities, but it has always remained the core of political life. Now the ancient castle is also a subject of tourist interest — within its walls you can visit the national historical Museum.

Official website: https://www.president

21. Riga TV Tower (Riga)

Riga TV tower on Zakyusala Island (“Hare Island”) in the middle of the Daugava River (Western Dvina)

Of course, the sights of Riga will not do without the highest of the Baltic structures — the 369-meter Riga TV Tower. The construction of the tower started back in Soviet times, in 1980, and lasted about 10 years. Instead of the usual reinforced concrete, an innovative material was used in construction at that time — steel sheets, which provided the structure with unprecedented strength — according to calculations, the safety margin of this structure is designed for 2.5 centuries! The first observation deck is located at the 100-meter level, and the second one is located at the 134—meter level. The appearance of the TV tower is very peculiar — it is a structure of 3 pillars and a spire. Two inclined rail elevators operate in its supports, as well as a conventional elevator connecting the observation deck with the lower technical levels.

22. Birini Manor (Birini village)

The former noble manor of Birini is surrounded by a large landscape park simka

Not far from Sigulda, on a small hill near the mirrored lake Birini, an elegant castle from 1860 rises majestically, attracting attention with a combination of delicate pink and white tones and elegant turrets. As well as the castle, the nature itself is magnificent, framing this creation — it is a wonderful park with lakes and an abundance of diverse greenery. The overall architectural design of the building belongs to the Neo-Gothic, although the interior is decorated in a romantic Neo-Renaissance style. The manor received its name in honor of the glorious knight Johann Biring, who received this estate from the king for his exploits in the 13th century, which later repeatedly changed its owners. Today, guests of the estate are provided with a number of opportunities — rest at the hotel, holding special events, visiting the sauna, horseback riding, a boat trip along the lake.

Official website: https://www.birinupils .

23. Freedom Monument (Riga)

Freedom Monument on Brivibas Boulevard in the historical center of Riga

Traveling in the Baltic States, you can cover the sights of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in one trip — fortunately, very short distances allow you to implement such a plan. One has only to hit the road along the Tallinn-Riga highway, along which there are diverse interesting places. Once at the final destination — Riga, you can visit one of the key sites in the heart of the Latvian capital — the Freedom Monument. This symbol of Latvia’s independence is a tribute to all those who gave their lives for their country during the civil war. The 42-meter stele is crowned with a 9-meter sculpture of Freedom, a young woman holding three stars symbolizing three Latvian cultural and historical regions. The foot of the monument is decorated with several bas-reliefs depicting historical scenes and the most important human values of society.

24. Daugavas Loki Nature Park (Daugava River)

View from the Vasargelish observation Tower to the Daugavas Loki Nature Park

The tourist map of Latvia is replete with interesting objects — for example, in the southeastern part of the country, on both sides of the Daugava River, there is a picturesque corner – the Daugavas Loki Natural Park. In this place, the Daugava has numerous bends, creating suitable conditions for water tourism — this moment has not been ignored, so there are a number of boat and raft rental points along the river, as well as excellent places for halts. In addition, the park preserves unique historical monuments — the fact is that the river has long served as the basis for the development of the territories adjacent to it, and castles were built on its banks and entire settlements were formed. Therefore, today in the park you can see more than 20 archaeological sites, for example: the settlement of Vecpils, the Vasargalish tower, Markovo and Vecrachinsky settlements, the castle of the Rosalish estate and much more.

25. Karosta Prison Museum (Liepaja)

The territory of Karosta prison in Liepaja Keith Ruffles

There is an unusual historical museum in the Latvian city of Liepaja, which is of great interest to many tourists. This is the Karosta prison, or guardhouse, built in 1900 and originally served as a hospital. This facility is unique in that it is the only prison in Europe open for sightseeing visits. This place is known for terrible and sometimes bloody events — for example, mass shootings were carried out here during totalitarian regimes. There are no less gloomy reviews from local residents who claim that mystical things happen within these walls, restless ghosts roam the corridors of the prison. For those who wish to dilute the heavy impressions of what they saw, there is something to see on the way to Liepaja: for example, a very spectacular picture — snow-white roadside wind turbines in the middle of the plains, against the background of the bottomless Latvian sky. While staying in Latvia, think about visiting a country famous for its medieval architecture and delicious beer – the Czech Republic. Read about the sights of the Czech Republic and be inspired by new ideas for traveling around Europe!

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