The Soviet occupation left the country with a large Russian minority population, and it remains a place divided by language and culture – Rīga in particular is a strikingly bilingual city, although all road signs and public notices are in Latvian. And although it’s the boisterous capital to which most visitors are attracted, to experience the true spirit of Latvia you’ll need to head into the spectacularly unspoiled countryside, with its lakes, forests and sandy beaches.
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![Sustainable Baltic Capitals](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1692618858641/tallinn-2_listing_1692618872665.jpeg)
10 days / from1063 USD
Sustainable Baltic Capitals
Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.
view tour ⤍![Ultimate Baltics](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1692611498316/arvydas-venckus-P-hRe4b8b9g-unsplash_listing_1692611515524.jpeg)
16 days / from4033 USD
Ultimate Baltics
Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.
view tour ⤍![Baltic Highlights](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1692621405556/m-v-T-qDAOnvt3s-unsplash_listing_1692621423911.jpeg)
10 days / from1690 USD
Baltic Highlights
Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.
view tour ⤍Where to go in Latvia
The most obvious destination is the capital, Rīga. Its architectural treasures, lively nightlife and countless eating options make it a prime destination for budget travellers, and it’s also popular with stag parties. Places within easy reach of the capital include the palace of Rundāle, while those wishing to hit the beach can head either to the nearby resort area of Jūrmala or to the port city of Ventspils. In the scenic Gauja Valley, the attractive small towns of Sigulda and Cēsis can both be used as bases for hiking, biking, canoeing and other outdoor pursuits.
Top image: © RossHelen/Shutterstock
Fact file
Population 2.3 million
Area 64,589 sq km
Language Latvian; Russian also widely spoken
Currency Euro (Eur)
Capital Rīga (population: 706,413)
International phone code t 371
Travel advice for Latvia
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