Located between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia is right at the heart of the Baltic region and has been a member of the European Union since 2004. This green country, of deep tradition, deserves more than a weekend visit thanks to its incredible natural landscapes and long emerald coastlines. Do not miss the castles around Sigulda overlooking scenic valleys and the Gauja river. The capital, Riga, is known as the pearl of the Baltic and is also a must-see! 

Riga: The pearl of the Baltic

Riga, located on the Baltic Sea, is situated at the estuary of the Daugava River. With around 709,145 inhabitants, it is the largest city in the Baltic. It is also one of the main cultural, political and economic hubs in the region. Walking along famous streets in Riga, such as Elisabeth, Strelnieku and Alberta Street, you will notice that almost half of the buildings are Art Nouveau. Art Nouveau, also known as Jugendstil in Latvia, is the predominant architectural style here and Alberta Street is home to an excellent example, the Riga Graduate School of Law. 

While in Riga, make sure you also visit the Museum of Occupation, which gives an in-depth history of Latvia, which was occupied for 51 years in the early 20th century, by the German Third Reich at first and then the Soviet regime. Like many European capitals, nightlife in Riga is lively and cosmopolitan, with plenty of restaurants, pubs, discos, clubs and casinos. There is something for everyone, from those in search of the most refined restaurants to hipster cafes and bars. Riga also offers a rich program of theatre, concerts and opera.

Beyond Riga

With its long beaches, the coastline near Riga is the ideal place for sunbathing, although the water can be rather nippy! The seaside resort of Jurmala is an excellent place to start, its located around twenty kilometres from the centre of Riga. Once frequented by the Soviet nomenklatura, Jurmala is now one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. You can find luxury hotels and all kinds of restaurants, bars and beach discos hosting internationally renowned DJs.

The Zemgale region is in the southern part of the country and is a flat, agricultural area where pagan traditions are still very much alive. There is also the region of Latgale, bordered by Russia and Belarus, but this area can become crowded with tourists. Many travellers flock here, attracted by the beautiful lakes and rivers around Rezekne, the regional capital and essential stopover if you're travelling to Moscow from Riga.

The Vidzeme region in the northern part of Latvia is known as the 'Switzerland of Latvia'. The area is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of the country because of its hilly landscapes dotted with castles and fortresses. The area around Sigulda boasts several enchanting medieval castles and great caves in the beautiful Gauja valley. The valley also features a small ski resort in winter and is the main access point into the Gauja National Park.

Ferries to Latvia

Visit the NetFerry website to explore ferry routes to Latvia. The Netferry booking portal allows you to save. We give you a quote and will enable you to confirm the ticket a few days later. Netferry always helps you find the ferry to best suit your needs. Prices, times and ports of departure and arrival are just a few clicks away with Netferry.

Netferry: a sea of ferries