Is Latvia Worth Visiting? Discover Europe’s (Affordable) Hidden Gem

Last updated on October 17th, 2025 at 09:01 pm

If you’re hunting for a European destination that won’t drain your bank account but still offers the rich history, authentic culture, and unforgettable experiences you dream of, let me introduce you to Latvia. Tucked between Lithuania and Estonia on the Baltic Sea, this underrated country is basically Europe’s best-kept secret.

Latvia checks all the boxes: safe streets, gorgeous sandy beaches, dense forests that look like something out of a fairytale, and enough history to satisfy even the pickiest culture buff. Another bonus? A quick search for Latvia hotels shows options for every budget—from charming hotels in Riga’s Old Town to cozy countryside guesthouses. This is one trip where you can actually stick to your budget without sacrificing the experience.

Why Riga Should Be Your First Stop

Let’s start with the capital, Riga. This city is like stepping into a living museum, but without the stuffiness. The medieval Old Town is a pedestrian paradise—cobblestone streets winding past colorful buildings and opening up into lively squares. I think my favorite thing to do when I’m in Europe is to head to the old town and get lost in the streets and alleys, ducking into hidden cafés and stumbling upon charming squares you’d never find on a map. Riga’s Old Town is perfect for this kind of wandering. And, don’t miss Livu Square. It’s the heart of the nightlife scene, where you can grab a beer at an outdoor café and watch the city come alive after dark.

But here’s what will really enchant you: Riga has over 800 Art Nouveau buildings. Yes, 800! The ornate facades with their elaborate decorations are gorgeous. Take a self-guided walking tour through the Alberta iela district—it’s free and absolutely stunning.

Don’t skip the Riga Central Market, either. This UNESCO World Heritage site is housed in massive former zeppelin hangars (how cool is that?), and it’s where locals do their shopping. You’ll find everything from fresh Baltic fish to handmade souvenirs, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Grab some local cheese, fresh bread, and smoked fish for a picnic—you’ll spend less than €10 and eat like royalty.

Beach Vibes at Jurmala

Just a quick 30-minute train ride from Riga (for about €3 round-trip), you’ll hit Jurmala, Latvia’s premier seaside resort town. Picture this: miles of white sandy beaches, charming wooden houses painted in pastels, and a super laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect day trip when you need a break from sightseeing.

The best part is, that unlike most European beach destinations, Jurmala doesn’t feel overrun with tourists. You can actually find a quiet spot on the sand, and the boardwalk restaurants serve up fresh seafood without the tourist-trap prices. Summer weekends get busier, but even then, it’s nothing compared to the Mediterranean crowds.

Gauja National Park: Nature on a Budget

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Gauja National Park covers nearly 1,000 square kilometers of pristine forest, and the best news? Admission is completely free. You can hike, bike, or canoe along the Gauja River for as long as you want without spending a dime on entry fees.

The park is home to Gutman’s Cave, which started forming about 10,000 years ago and is the largest cave grotto in the Baltics. Legend has it that the cave has healing powers—whether you believe it or not, it’s a stunning natural formation worth seeing.

The Sigulda region within the park is nicknamed “the Switzerland of Latvia,” and it makes sense! The dramatic river valley, medieval castles perched on hillsides, and lush forests create scenery that rivals much pricier Alpine destinations. The red-brick Turaida Castle is the crown jewel—climb the tower for panoramic views that’ll take your breath away.

Step Back in Time at Historic Sites

History lovers, you’ll be in heaven here. Rundale Palace is Latvia’s answer to Versailles—a stunning Baroque and Rococo palace with lavish interiors and manicured gardens. The palace was built in the 18th century for the Dukes of Courland, and walking through the gilded halls feels like you’ve traveled back in time. Tickets are affordable (around €8-€12 depending on the tour), especially compared to similar attractions in Western Europe.

For something completely different, visit the Corner House in Riga. This former KGB headquarters is now a museum that doesn’t sugarcoat Latvia’s Soviet past. It’s sobering but important, and it gives you real insight into what life was like during the occupation.

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out Karosta Prison in Liepaja. This former military prison offers tours where you can explore the cells, and for the truly brave, they even offer overnight stays. It’s supposedly haunted, which adds to the experience—if you’re into that sort of thing!

Unique Latvian Experiences You Can’t Miss

Want to do something truly local? Book a traditional Latvian pirts (sauna) experience. This isn’t your typical spa day—it’s a cultural ritual that involves steam, ice-cold plunges, and getting gently whipped with birch or juniper branches to boost circulation. I know it sounds intense, but it’s actually incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating. Plus, it’s a tradition that dates back centuries.

Culture on a budget? The Latvian National Opera and Ballet offers world-class performances at prices that’ll make you do a double-take. We’re talking €15-€30 for tickets that would cost triple (or more) in other European capitals. The building itself is gorgeous, and the performances are top-notch.

What You’ll Actually Spend: Real Budget Breakdown

Let’s talk money, because this is where Latvia really shines. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Accommodation:
Hostel Dorm (per night): €15 – 26
Budget Hotel (per night): ~€30
Mid-range Hotel (per night): €50 – 80
Airbnb Apartment (per night): €35 – 60

Food & Drink:
Street Food Meal: €3 – 5
Casual Restaurant Meal: €7 – 12
Nice Sit-down Restaurant: €15 – 25
Coffee at a Café: €2 – 3
Beer at a Bar: €3 – 4
Bottle of Local Wine: €5 – 8

Transportation:
Riga Public Transport (24-hr pass): €5
Single Tram/Bus Ticket: €1.50
Train to Jurmala (round-trip): €6
Intercity Bus (Riga to Sigulda): €3 – 5

Activities & Attractions:
Rundale Palace Entry: €8 – 12
Museum Tickets: €3 – 8
Gauja National Park: Free!
Free Walking Tours in Riga: Free (tips appreciated)

Daily Budget Estimates:

• Budget Traveler: €30-45/day (hostel, street food, free activities)
• Mid-Range Traveler: €60-90/day (hotel, restaurant meals, paid attractions)
• Comfortable Traveler: €100-150/day (nice hotel, dining out, activities, occasional taxi)

Smart Money-Saving Tips

Want to stretch your euros even further? 

• Join the free walking tours in Riga to get your bearings and learn the city’s history. They usually run two to three hours and are led by knowledgeable local guides. Just bring cash for a tip at the end (€5-10 is standard).
• Shop at Riga Central Market for fresh ingredients and prepare some of your own meals. Even if you’re staying in a hotel, you can pick up bread, cheese, fruit, and smoked fish for picnic lunches—much cheaper than eating every meal out.
• Fill up a reusable water bottle—tap water in Latvia is completely safe to drink and tastes fine, so you’ll save money and reduce plastic waste.
• Take advantage of intercity buses instead of renting a car. Bus tickets are super affordable (€3-8 for most routes), and the buses are clean and reliable. Check local bus schedules online for bookings.
• Try wild camping if you’re the outdoorsy type—it’s legal and free on public land in Latvia. Just follow Leave No Trace principles and camp responsibly.
• Visit during shoulder season (May-June or September) for lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, while still enjoying decent weather.
• Eat your main meal at lunch instead of dinner—many restaurants offer lunch specials that are 30% to 40% cheaper than the same dishes at dinnertime.
• Look for combination tickets at attractions. Some sites offer discounted multi-entry passes that’ll save you money if you’re planning to see several museums or castles.

Getting Around: Transportation Tips

Latvia’s transportation system is straightforward and budget-friendly. Within Riga, walking is honestly your best bet—the Old Town is compact and pedestrian-friendly. When you need to venture further, the public transport system (trams, buses, trolleybuses) is efficient and cheap. Get a 24-hour pass for €5 and you’re set for the day.

For traveling between cities, buses are your friend. They’re punctual, comfortable, and incredibly affordable. Rental cars are also reasonably priced (starting around €20-30/day), which is great if you want the freedom to explore rural areas at your own pace. Just a heads up: Latvian drivers can be a bit aggressive, so stay alert and drive defensively.

When to Visit for the Best Experience

The sweet spot for visiting Latvia is April through September. July and August bring the warmest weather (20-25°C or 68-77°F) and the liveliest atmosphere, but they’re also the busiest months. If you want to avoid crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather, aim for May, June, or September.

That said, don’t let the weather scare you off during other months. Winter in Latvia has its own charm—think Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights if you venture north. Just pack warm layers!

No matter when you visit, always pack a raincoat or umbrella. Latvia gets its fair share of showers year-round, but they usually pass quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—those cobblestone streets are gorgeous but murder on your feet if you’re not prepared.

The Bottom Line: Is Latvia Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Latvia offers everything you want in a European vacation—stunning architecture, fascinating history, beautiful nature, delicious food—without the massive price tag or overwhelming crowds. It’s one of those rare destinations where your money goes far, and you still get an authentic, memorable experience.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a family looking for an affordable adventure, or just someone who loves to travel to new places, Latvia delivers. The locals are friendly, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and you’ll leave with stories that your friends haven’t heard a million times before.

So pack your bags, and get ready to discover why Latvia might just become your new favorite European destination. 

Also read:
Flight Hack: How to Use the 24-Hour Rule to Save Big
10 Unique & Memorable Souvenir Ideas for Your Next Vacation
Menton: My Visit to the Picture-Perfect French Riviera Town That Belongs on Your Bucket List

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