Best Things to Do in Latvia

1. House of the Blackheads 

The House of the Blackheads is located in the historic old part of Riga. The building was originally built in the 1300s by a group of unmarried merchants and shipowners known as the Brotherhood of Blackheads. The building was damaged during WWII and is now a place where events, concerts, and dinners are held. Visitors can walk around the building and see the opulence that has been recently restored.  

2. Explore Downtown Riga 

Explore the capital city of Latvia! Riga straddles the Daugava River and is a lively and colorful old town dotted with cobblestone streets, church spires, and Art Nouveau architecture. Visit the popular St. Peter’s Church or stroll along the river during the day and head out at night to frequent Riga popular basement bars and clubs. 

3. Visit Jurmala 

Head out to Latvia’s popular beach destination by visiting Jurmala in Riga Gulf. Similar to the Balkan Riviera, Latvia has its own riviera made up of small towns made popular by mud pools and salty air. Along this sandy region you’ll be able to have fun with water sports and adorable seaside cafes. 

4. Tour the Ligatne Bunker 

Visit a former Soviet Bunker at Ligatne Bunker. Built near rural Ligatne, the bunker is nearly 30 feet below ground and was built for protection in case of nuclear war during the Cold War. This bunker was so expertly hidden that the clinic near the bunker didn’t know it was there for 30 years. 

When visiting you can see vintage maps, Cold War machinery, canteens, and Soviet memorabilia. You can also enjoy a 1980s style restaurant at the bunker where the main fare is soup. 

5. Turaida Museum Reserve 

Visit a land of museums at Turaida Museum Reserve. Located 34 miles northwest of Riga, the Turaida Museum Reserve is a cluster of historical, archaeological, and art monuments. With some buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, Turaida is a one-stop-shot of history. Included in the reserve is the Turaida Stone Castle, Folk Song Garden and Hill, Turaida Church, and Rose of Turaida Memorial.  

6. Corner House 

Take a step back to Soviet-era Latvia by visiting the Corner House. Once a former headquarter for the KGB in Riga, the building is now open to visitors to learn about the impact of the KGB in Latvia. Citizens of the city were brought to be interrogated, imprisoned, and even executed within the walls of this Art Nouveau building. Today the Corner House is a reminder of Soviet rule of Latvia with exhibitions and artifacts. 

7. Walk the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk 

Who says bogs can’t be fun. Explore one of Latvia’s many bogs in the Kemeri National Park. The boardwalks take you across the bogs through pine forests, small dark lakes, pools, and give you the chance to see some of Latvia’s local birds. Ideal for sunrise and sunset, you can capture some amazing pictures on the 1 mile or 2.2-mile boardwalk trails. 

8. Visit Tarzan's Adventure Park

For a family activity in Latvia check out the Tarzan's Adventure Park. The park is the largest in the Baltics with over 100 obstacle courses you can have fun with including catapults, climbing walls, paintball courses, bungee jumping, and go-karts. With a cafe and plenty of activities, Tarzan's Adventure Park is the perfect atypical day trip from Riga. 

9. Explore Old Believer’s Village 

If you’re interested in seeing what traditional Latvian life was like take a trip to the Old Believer’s Village. Located in Slutiski, the village features homes and buildings built in traditional Latvia-wood architecture. This style of architecture is noted for its intricate carpentry and elaborate windows and doors. 

10. Relax at a Spa

Noted for its abundant sulfur springs and spas, Latvia is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Whether you visit the many spas in Riga or the Jurmala, one of the continent’s oldest spa cities, these soothing spas will keep you relaxed during your trip. Spas in Latvia are also good for the budget as their prices for full-day treatments are cheaper than their counterparts in Western Europe.