Latvia calls to travelers with its history, culture, and stunning scenery - so set aside a day to explore it all!
Come along with me as I pick out the very best of Latvia, in this travel blog. Expect a carefully planned schedule, practical advice for your trip, and knowledge to deepen your experience of the Riga state.
Whether it's somewhere you're dashing off to, or wish you could, Latvia could also cast its spell over you.
1. Considerations When Planning Your Latvia Travel Itinerary
When traveling, there is more to consider than just transportation. Here are some things to think about before you book those tickets:
Money: What’s your budget? The cost will impact everything from where you stay to where you eat to what you do. Latvia offers something for all pockets, from cost-conscious hostels to luxury hotels.
When to Go: The Baltic state experiences all four seasons – summer is great for city breaks and the beach, while winter is just a snow-globe delight.
What to Do: Latvia has a variety of attractions, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local culture – or all three.
Staying Healthy and Safe: Make sure you’re up to date on health warnings and safety advisories. Some vaccinations and travel insurance are advised.
Visa and Travel: Check travel restrictions and visa requirements for Latvia and have all your paperwork ready well ahead of your trip.
2. Best One-Day Travel Itinerary in Latvia
Let's explore the perfect one-day journey through Latvia’s highlights, making the most of your limited time in this beautiful country.
Route Overview
This one-day route focuses on the capital city, Riga, where you can experience Latvia’s rich history and vibrant culture through its iconic landmarks and attractions.
Latvia 1-Day Trip Table
Day | Destination | Recommended Spots |
1 | Riga | St. Peter's Church, Blackhead Palace, Riga Cathedral, House of Three Brothers, Cat House, Freedom Monument |
One Day Trip: Exploring Riga
Today, we’ll journey through Riga, Latvia's lively capital, celebrated for its rich history and breathtaking architecture, and discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems on this unforgettable exploration.
What to See and Do
St. Peter's Church: Dating back to the 13th century, St. Peter's Church boasts some great panoramic views of the city from its spires.
On your way down, you can marvel at the intricate Gothic details inside, such as the vaulted ceilings.
Blackhead Palace: This Gothic-Renaissance building was constructed in the 14th century as a meeting place for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, then a guild for unmarried merchants.
Its museum illustrates Riga's cultural heritage and history (do check opening times in advance).
Riga Cathedral: Also known as the Dome Cathedral, this imposing edifice was founded in 1211. All the whistles and bells are an organ, the largest in Europe, with 6,718 pipes.
Downstairs, the cloister and museum offer a history of religion in Latvia and host medieval art.
House of Three Brothers: Three abutting houses serve as an exhibition space for the Latvian Museum of Architecture, with permanent and temporary displays of how the city evolved between the 15th and 17th centuries.
The oldest house features Gothic-Renal styling; the middle one houses the museum.
Cat House: One of the best examples in Riga of Art Nouveau construction, the Cat House is most famed for its spire cats.
The heart of a centuries-old feud of rival merchant guilds, the owner had them cast to 'moon' the Great Guild that refused his membership.
Take a guided tour of the building for insight into its historical architecture and facade detail.
Freedom Monument: A symbol of Latvia's desire for independence, the monument, unveiled in 1935, shows Liberty standing with three stars representing the country's regions.
Start Early: Begin your day early to make the most of the daylight and avoid crowds at popular attractions.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Riga's old town is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
Bring a Camera: Capture the stunning architecture and picturesque streets of Riga.
How to Shorten/Extend the 1-Day Route
To Shorten: If pressed for time, skip the Cat House and House of Three Brothers to focus on the main landmarks.
To Extend: If you have more time, consider visiting the Latvian National Museum of Art or taking a leisurely stroll along the Daugava River to explore more of Riga’s charm.
3. Top 10 Foods and Drinks to Try in Latvia
Latvian cuisine is filling, substantial, and shaped by the country’s nordic climate and agricultural roots. Expect strong flavors featuring lots of rye, potatoes, dairy, and meat, making for a warm and comforting dining experience.
1. Rye Bread (Rupjmaize):
Dark, dense, slightly sweet, and a mealtime staple. Often smothered in butter or heaped with cheese, Latvian rye really is delicious.
2. Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi):
In all fairness perhaps not a dish that serves the first roots of Latvian cuisine, but this satisfying bowl of gray peas (similar to chickpeas), smoked bacon and onions remains a classic Latvian dish, especially around the Christmas period.
3. Speķa Pīrāgi:
A snack finger food that really is of Latvian origin – these little crescent shaped pastries are filled with smoked bacon and onions, the right size to have one (or a dozen) in one go.
4. Kārums:
A smooth curd snack that you can get in flavors as enticing as vanilla or chocolate, while it might not scream or ‘taste’ Latvian, it’s quite a treat.
5. Jāņi Cheese (Jāņu siers):
A soft cheese flavored with caraway seeds, Latvian families will prepare for the Midsummer festival, Jāņi, this small, mild cheese can be a surprise in something so tangy.
6. Riga Black Balsam:
A traditional Latvian herbal liqueur, this inky bottle above is made from a blend of 24 plants, roots, berries and flowers and a bottle oozes a layered, bitter herbal taste that’s both cocktail ingredient, and supposedly medicinal.
7. Smoked Fish:
With all that coastline, Latvia does a good trade in smoked fish – expect to see eel and salmon make appearances, they’re the kind of thing you’ll pick at a plate of, stacking on black bread.
8. Pīrāgi:
Soft, often sourdough pastries that can be sweet, fruity or savory. Small and bite-sized, they might be cottage cheese filled, berry, or meat.
9. Kvass:
A fermented soft drink made from rye bread, lightly alcoholic and typically flavored with fruits or herbs. It’s a slightly tangy, refreshing option on a warm day.
10. Sauerkraut Soup (Skābu kāpostu zupa):
Fermented sauerkraut, pork and potatoes, all piled into one pot – a warming dish on the coldest of winter nights.
4. Additional Tips for Traveling in Latvia
Packing Must-Haves
The necessary packing will depend on the season you’re visiting. In summer, make sure to bring light clothes and something for protection against the sun, such as a hat and sunscreen. Winters can be cold, so pack warm clothes, gloves, and a hat.
Comfortable walking shoes are also essential, as well as a reusable bottle, travel-sized toiletries, and a travel adapter to fit European plugs. A portable charger is a wise inclusion too.
Cash and Local Payment Apps
While many shops in cities and tourist areas will take credit cards, it’s handy to have cash on you for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are common.
Download local payment apps, such as Mobilly, to enable cashless payments for public transport, parking, or even ordering a meal.
Local Etiquette
Greetings in Latvia, it is common to say “Labdien” (good day) and “Paldies” (thank you). Respectful behavior is valued – use your right hand to give and take items, for example.
Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, and remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Avoid conversations about politics or sensitive historical subjects with strangers.
Getting Around
Latvia’s public transport – including buses, trams, and trains – is efficient and well connected. In Riga, trams and buses will be your best bet for exploring the city; for travel between towns, comfortable buses and trains are both affordable and reliable.
Purchase tickets in advance or through station booking offices, online, or in some cases, apps. Taxis and Bolt ride-share are easily arranged, too.
Hiring a Vehicle
Hiring a car or a scooter gives you the freedom to travel further and explore remote corners of the country.
Do take care on the road, though; roads can be narrow, particularly in city centers, and traffic can be heavy. If renting a vehicle ensure you are carrying an International Driver's Permit, and know the local driving laws.
For scooters, always wear a helmet and keep an eye out for cyclists or pedestrians. In cities parking can be challenging.
Language Tips
Many Latvians have a working knowledge of English, particularly in the cities, but picking up the basics of Latvian is always appreciated.
Say “Sveiki” (Hello), “Lūdzu” (Please), and “Cik tas maksā?” (How much does it cost?) to win friends, get what you need, and make an impression. Most signage will be in Latvian, and having a translation app for menus and directions can be a help.
Summary
I hope you've enjoyed the travel in Latvia with this itinerary as much as we have, seeing the sights and strolling the streets, and that you’ll find our words useful in crafting your own experiences.
Whatever you choose to see or do, we wish you the best in planning your own Latvia trip. Enjoy the journey—wherever it takes you!