Curator’s statement
Winter is a unique and special time to visit Latvia, a Baltic state rich in history, dappled with forests, pristine lakes and wide beaches. Considered the off-season, travelers will find themselves exploring cities and countryside in peaceful winter slumber. Daylight may be limited, but adventure certainly is not. This is a fantastic time for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding and exploring this gorgeous country blanketed in snow and frost.
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Things to do in Latvia
Sigulda Castle
A Medieval castle of the Livonian Order built in 1207, with the new Sigulda Castle built in 1878. Located in a square with authentic Latvian shops including local jewelry and walking sticks.
Krimulda Castle
Ruins of the Krimulda Castle can be reached via a gondola over the Gauja River. This is a scenic experience any time of year.
Turaida Museum Reserve and Castle
Take your time exploring the grounds of this museum reserve with its walking trails, sculptures and multiple historic buildings and museums.
Snowshoeing at Vienkoču Parks
This recreational park offers a maze of trails in the forest dotted with models and sculptures, a woodcraft museum and snowshoe rentals during the snowy months.
Rundale Palace
Large baroque style palace built over the 1700s for the Dukes of Courland. The palace is extensive and well worth a day trip.
Kemeri National Park
Unique park near Riga known for it’s great biological diversity, Kemeri Bog, and mineral waters and therapeutic mud. This special place is well worth a day trip and time spent exploring the boardwalk through the swamp and nature trails.
Dog Sledding with Discover Latvia
Do not miss this thrilling adventure! Transport is provided from Riga to a national park about 40 minutes outside the city center. The beautiful, friendly huskies will take you and your travel companion on a 3 km scenic route through the forest.
Riga Central Market
Expansive indoor/outdoor market in WWI Zeppelin hangars.
Old Riga
The historic old town center of Riga is well worth exploring on foot. Consider visits to Riga Cathedral, Riga Castle, St Peters Church and Blackheads House. Admire the Art Nouveau architecture throughout the city. Riga has the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world.
Museums of Riga
Riga is filled with a multitude of museums including the Corner House, Art Nouveau Center, National History Museum and the Latvian War Museum.
Kuldiga Castle Park and District Museum
Located along the river near the Venta Waterfall in Kuldiga, the Bangert’s villa is preserved to display the authentic setting of a well-off 20th century entrepreneur. The castle park is located on the site of the former Livonian Order castle which was destroyed during the Great Northern War.
Places to eat & drink in Latvia
Viesnīca un restorāns Aparjods – Traditional Latvian cuisine in Sigulda.
At Jančuks – Pub fair in Ligatne.
The Marmalade – Café and bakery in Kuldiga.
Bangert's Restaurant – Latvian cuisine in Kuldiga.
36.line Grill Restaurant – Fine dining in Jurmala.
Ala Pagrabs – Latvian pub fair in Riga.
Crumble Cake, kafejnīca – Delicious crumble cake in Riga.
Milda – Baltic cuisine in Riga.
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Catherine Hart
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