Latvia is a country located in Eastern Europe in the Baltic Region. Its capital is Riga, one of its main cities and an essential visit if we want to see the interesting things that the country has. However, in Latvia there is much more, from small and old towns to coastal areas with beautiful beaches and natural landscapes to enjoy a little of everything.
Let's see some of the main points that can be seen in the country of Latvia. We will get lost among old towns, charming villages and many natural spaces that offer places of great beauty, in addition to cities such as Riga or Ventspils.
Riga the capital
Riga is the capital of Latvia and therefore it is going to become one of the places that we will first think about if we are going to visit the country. In the Plaza del Ayuntamiento we can see several interesting buildings like the House of the Blackheads, which is a reproduction of the one that was destroyed in World War II. In the city we can also see many art nouveau buildings erected at the beginning of the XNUMXth century. Nor should you miss the Tres Hermanos, as the three houses joined together on Maza Pils street with facades from different periods are known. Riga Cathedral was also rebuilt in the early XNUMXth century and features a beautiful organ and glass windows. We should also visit the Plaza Livu, full of terraces and with a lively atmosphere.
Beach in Jurmala
In Latvian this word means sea coast and there is nothing better to define this area of Latvia. If we want to enjoy a little sea and beach we have to go to Jurmala. The beach measures 33 kilometers and there are different regions in it, with tourism centers designed to enjoy this place in perfect tranquility. In the city there is also a water park, the Livu Water Park, which offers many activities and fun for the whole family. Kemeri National Park is a perfect place to enjoy hiking trails and hot springs.
Ancient Cesis
This is a small town in Latvia that is located on the banks of the Gauja River. Its origins date back to the XNUMXth century and it is from older and better preserved towns of the country, so it is a very touristy place not to be missed. Its medieval castle is the place of greatest interest, from the XNUMXth century. You can see the towers, the dungeon and some rooms and to make the tour they provide visitors with a lantern, which makes it a very original experience. We can also visit the new XNUMXth century castle where the Museum of History and Art is located.
Gauja National Park
As we have said, Latvia has many natural spaces, and one of the most important is the Gauja National Park. Inside the park we find the town of Sigulda, highly recommended because it is known as the Latvian Switzerland. In this town there are three medieval castles and they have the largest ski resort in the country. You can see the Turaida Museum Reserve, a complex with wooden houses, workshops and exhibitions. You can also visit the Gutmana Cave with inscriptions that have left you in love since the seventeenth century and from which the legend of the Rose of Turaida is inspired. In the national park you can also do other activities such as cycling, kayaking in the river or riding a balloon.
Rundale Palace in Bauska
This palace has become a classic in Latvian tourism and an essential visit in the country. This XNUMXth century palace was a hospital in the First World War and was also a local school to eventually become a Palace Museum. Recently restored, it is a palace of great beauty in which you can see its elegant rooms with decorations on the walls and its beautiful gardens.
Ventspils
This port city is one of the oldest in Latvia. In the city you can see the Castle of the Livonian Order, used for years as a prison. In the downtown area of the city is the Market Square, where you can find all kinds of products and souvenirs. In the area of the Maritime Park is located the Ethnographic Museum where you can see a large collection of objects related to the sea. It also has a beach where you can practice some water sports.
Liepaja
Located on the east coast, it is another population that has a beach, such as Vecliepaja or Dienvidrietumi. It has an interesting old town and was the capital of Latvia for a short time. In addition, in the northern area was the secret Russian military city. It is a very peculiar city with original architecture.