The Baltic region is very popular for various reasons. There are not many places in Europe where you can enjoy fantastic views, beaches, history, and nice weather. Moreover, what we call the ‘Baltic states’ offer the same but at lower costs than neighbors like Sweden, Finland, or Denmark. Latvia is an excellent example of this, attracting a variety of visitors thanks to its many charms.
Why do people visit Latvia?
According to official OECD reports, people come to Latvia for more than its historic beauty and breathtaking landscapes. The country has found a place as one of the best MICE destinations in the region. MICE stands for ‘Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions’ and it’s a niche that boosts the local economy. It’s not surprising that companies would choose Latvia as it has lower costs than typical Western destinations like Germany or France.
The same applies to health tourism. This is such a popular niche that Latvia has created the ‘Latvian Health Tourism Cluster’. This organization has joined over 60 institutions to offer quality medical services for foreigners and visitors.
Thus, people can come from different countries to enjoy Latvian solid medical services at lower costs than in their home countries. Attention is provided by best-in-class physicians educated in the best universities and mostly abroad. This creates a pool of medical experts that speak different languages and can assist foreign citizens in their treatments, recoveries, and medical procedures.
All in all, whether you come for a conference in Riga or medical purposes, Latvia has a wide entertainment offer, an advanced culture, rich historical places, and beautiful nature. Here are some of the nicest places that you can visit during your stay.
Kuldiga, Kandava and Sabile
There is something undescribable about a European medieval town. Time seems to stay still among a green landscape, one-story picturesque houses, and a historic city center. Besides this, a town like Kuldiga is home to the widest waterfall on the continent. Its name is Venta Rumba, and, although it’s by far not the tallest, it gives the landscape a charming touch. Visit Kuldiga, Kandava, or Sabile and travel through time in a unique experience.
Rundale Palace
This architectural wonder can be accessed by car or through a tour. As you can see in the video below, Rundale is a stunning palace surrounded by a beautiful park and built in the 18th century. The palace was designed and constructed by Franchesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the same artist that built the famous Winter Palace for the Romanov family, in Saint Petersburg. Visit the Rundale Palace only 80 kilometers south of the capital city.
The Daugava River
The Daugava River is the largest in the country and is popularly known as “The river of destiny”. It has a place in Latvia’s history and culture. The river’s journey starts in Russia and continues all the way down through Belarus to finally end in Latvia, where it becomes the scenery of quiet Latvian nature.
Sigulda
For those who love nature, Sigulda is the right place. Located only 50 kilometers from Riga, it’s accessible through day trips. From Sigulda, you will see stunning views of the Gauja National Park. This is also the right place for trekking, hiking, and kayaking in the lovely Gauja river. These are some of the activities available in the area:
- Mini tour through Sigulda, Ligatne, and Cesis.
- Visit the Turaida castle.
- 1-day kayak tour on the Gauja river.
- Visit the Gauja National Park.
Jurmala
If you want to combine city life with nature, visit the Jurmala resort. Located on the beach, it’s one of Latvia’s most visited places. The sand is flat enough to enjoy bike rides during the summer. Through the pine forest, you can access the city in no time and enjoy a nice meal and a cold beer on the famous Jomas street.
The Kemeri National Park
Only a 40-minute ride away from Riga, you’ll get to know one of the best-preserved bogland areas in Europe. Some of this place’s natural wonders are the lake Kanieris and the wooden dunes, where you can take walking trips or go out on fishing expeditions.
Kolka Cape
Kolka Cape is a magical place located in the Slitere National Park. Surrounded by secluded wild areas, this is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Latvia. In this spot, you will witness the encounter of two seas: the Gulf of Riga and the Baltic Sea.
Although not suitable for swimming, the Kolka Cape offers breathtaking views in ever-changing shapes due to the change in the ties.
Riga
Riga is not only the most populated city in Latvia (almost one-third of the population lives or works here) but a terrific tourist destination. With the charm of ancient Europe and the facilities of a modern metropolis, Riga offers the best of two worlds. Its Art Nouveau architecture and Olt Town neighborhood are a testimony of this country’s cultural legacy.
Younger generations can also enjoy a hipster neighborhood and plenty of food and beverage options.
The beauty of a region, the soul of a country
Everything points to the same conclusion: Latvia is an excellent destination. It’s no coincidence that this Baltic state lures foreigners for various reasons. Some of them come seeking new adventures, others are looking for cost-effective medical treatment. In some cases, Latvia is chosen as a hub for business conferences and meetings. Every one of these people finds what they are looking for: a welcoming place with plenty of opportunities to enjoy.
