Places to Visit
Riga
Architecture enthusiasts will love this city as art oozes out from almost every monument. From Gothic cathedrals to Art Nouveau seen in over 800 Art Nouveau buildings, it is a haven for art lovers. The capital town has a beautiful vibe to it with street cafes and clubs dotting the narrow lanes of this vibrant town. If you are a history lover, a trip to the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum is a good choice. It has a fine collection of traditional homes with people in their local attire adding to the charm of the place.
Sigulda
The historic town of Sigulda is an hour from Riga and is oft called he Switzerland of Latvia because of the spectacular scenery. It has beautiful grounds and gardens and green spaces to go for walks. History lovers can enjoy hiking to Krimulda Castle and the Sigulda Medieval Castle Ruins dating back to the 12th century while architecture enthusiasts can explore 19th century built, Amulda Manor.
Jurmala
Enjoy some sun, sand and the beach at Jurmala, located close to Riga. It is the so called ‘Latvian Riviera’ and is renowned for mineral mud pools and varied holistic health treatments. There are many sanatoriums dotting the coast. It is a great place to unwind and relax. Jurmala is also known for its beautiful wood architecture with many of the older houses resembling gingerbread houses.
Daugavpils
Nestled amidst the lakes and hills of the Daugava River valley, Daugavpils has a great vibe to it. It has a glorious hisotrical past with refined architecture due to the Russian influence here. The bulwarks of the great Daugavpils Fortress was one of the major military hubs for the Russians. Stunning monuments of Saints Boris and Gleb Cathedral have golden-hued onion domes and Orthodox cupolas are a must visit too.
Cesis
Cesis is one of the oldest towns in Latvia and has managed to retain its medieval charm through cobblestone streets, castles, painted timber facades in the classic Baltic style and worn courtyards where the Middle Age markets thrived. A must visit is the 13th century castle and also the New Cesis Castle made in the 18th century. The castle also has the Cēsis Museum of History and Art, a great place to know about the city’s history and culture.
