County brief | |
|---|---|
 | |
Population |
1,93 Mio. |
Area |
64.000 km² |
Form of goverment |
Republic |
Currency |
Euro |
Capital |
Riga |
Official languages |
Latvian |
Religions |
Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Russian Orthodox, Jewish, Dievturība |
Country code |
+371 |
National Holiday |
May 4 (Independence from the Soviet Union in 1990), November 18 (Anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic in 1918) |
When it comes to Latvia, many people think first and foremost of its capital, Riga. No wonder, because the picturesque old Hanseatic city in the bay of Riga can not only look back on a rich history, but is also characterized by a unique mix of different architectural styles. But it is not only the architecture that attracts visitors here from abroad. Riga has experienced a real boom in recent years and today presents itself as modern as never before.
Other Latvian cities such as Liepāja, Ventspils, Daugavpils and Cēsis are also worth a visit and all have their own unique character.
You’ve had enough of all the beautiful Latvian cities? Then let’s get out into nature, which is the real treasure of the country. Here you can hike through the lake landscape in the east of the country or go canoeing. How about a relaxing beach vacation? Especially around Liepāja you will find many fine sandy beaches. Far away from civilization, the national parks Kemeri, Gauja and Razna and Sitere are a great place to relax and forget about everyday life for a few days.
But also the Latvian culture will inspire you: Whether you participate in one of the traditional festivals at the summer or winter solstice or taste the Latvian cuisine, in which many cultures have left their mark – you will not be disappointed!
Come with us to the Baltics and discover Latvia and its most beautiful pages on wildeast.blog.
The Latvian capital can look back on a long history. Here, especially architecture fans get their money’s worth. Whether you are interested in medieval buildings from the time of the Hanseatic League, old zeppelin halls that today serve as a market or the Art Nouveau – Riga will not disappoint you!
The region to the north and east of the capital is characterized by rocky shores and the Gauja National Park, the largest in the country, which is particularly attractive in autumn. The region on the river of the same name is ideal if you want to spend an active vacation. Here you can go hiking, canoeing and even skiing! The historic towns of Cēsis and Valmiera are important cultural centers and offer a change of pace if you get tired of the beautiful nature.
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Kurzeme on the Livonian coast can score especially with its unspoiled nature. The widest waterfall in Europe, the cliffs of Jurkalne or the bird paradise at Cape Kolka are just a few of the beautiful places in the west of the country. However, the port city of Liepāja, the third largest settlement in the country with its historic warehouse district, the famous St. Nicholas Cathedral and a wide sandy beach, is also located here.
Zemgale on the Lithuanian border is very flat and shaped by Latvia’s most important river, the Daugava, which later flows into the Baltic Sea near Riga. The region is best known for its numerous castles, including the famous Rundāle Castle. But also the Tērvete Nature Park with its wooden sculptures, the mystical Pokaiņu Forest and the old town of Jelgava with its many wooden buildings are worth a visit!
Latgale is one thing above all: very different from the rest of the country. In the “land of the blue lakes,” a distinct dialect is still spoken today. The peculiar culture is also reflected in the design of the local churches and house paintings. Daugavpils is the second largest city in the country. Not only is it the largest city in the EU with a predominantly Russian-speaking population, but its citadel is also one of the most beautiful complexes of its kind in Europe, although it looks back on a dark history.
To prepare your trip even better, we have created a packing list for you. It contains recommendations for things that will make your trip more comfortable and secure.
Finding cheap flights with good connections is not always easy. We are pros at finding the cheapest and best flights. Here we share our experiences with you.
Money withdrawel can be extremely expensive. Especially those who pay a lot with foreign currencies should therefore have a travel credit card, which is free of charge or offers low fees. We tested the best.
