Europe
Latvia
Europe
Latvia
Updated Jan 04, 2025
Overview
Latvia, a hidden Baltic treasure, offers a blend of medieval history and modern allure. Riga, the capital, dazzles with its UNESCO-listed Old Town and stunning art nouveau architecture. Beyond the city, vast forests, serene lakes, and unspoiled beaches await. Immerse yourself in local traditions at the Song and Dance Festival, savor hearty Latvian cuisine, and explore ancient castles. For an authentic experience, visit a traditional sauna or join locals picking wild mushrooms. Latvia's rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality make it an unforgettable destination.
Best time to visit. Summer (June-August) is ideal for warm weather and festivals, including Midsummer celebrations. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring cities and nature. Winter (December-February) transforms Latvia into a snowy wonderland, great for festive markets and winter sports.
Cities
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Country stats
Population
1,842,226
146th
Land area
24,938 sq. mi.
122nd
Highest elevation
1,024 ft
Currency
Euro
Generally accepted payment methods
Mobile, Card, Cash
Total GDP
$45.466 billion
96th
GDP per capita
$24,193
42nd
Year founded
1918 CE
Official langauge
Latvian
English speaking
Spoken in major cities
European Union
Yes
Schengen Area
Yes
Human development index
0.879
37th
Timezone
Eastern European (UTC+2)
Driving side
right
Capital
Riga
Website
Google Maps link
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 32°F - 23°F | 28°F - 18°F | Cloudy | 8:45 am | 4:15 pm | 15 days 1.6 in | 12 days 4.0 in | 9 mph |
| February | 34°F - 24°F | 30°F - 20°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:55 am | 5:20 pm | 12 days 1.3 in | 10 days 3.3 in | 9 mph |
| March | 41°F - 30°F | 38°F - 26°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 6:30 pm | 12 days 1.5 in | 5 days 1.5 in | 9 mph |
| April | 53°F - 38°F | 51°F - 35°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:30 am | 7:45 pm | 11 days 1.6 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 9 mph |
| May | 64°F - 47°F | 63°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:30 am | 9:00 pm | 11 days 1.9 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 70°F - 54°F | 70°F - 53°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:00 am | 9:45 pm | 12 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 73°F - 57°F | 74°F - 56°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:30 am | 9:30 pm | 13 days 3.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 72°F - 56°F | 72°F - 55°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:30 am | 8:30 pm | 13 days 3.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 64°F - 49°F | 63°F - 47°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:30 am | 7:15 pm | 14 days 2.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 52°F - 40°F | 50°F - 37°F | Cloudy | 7:30 am | 6:00 pm | 15 days 2.5 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| November | 41°F - 33°F | 38°F - 29°F | Cloudy | 8:30 am | 4:45 pm | 16 days 2.3 in | 3 days 0.6 in | 9 mph |
| December | 34°F - 26°F | 30°F - 21°F | Cloudy | 9:00 am | 4:00 pm | 16 days 2.0 in | 9 days 3.0 in | 9 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | National holiday celebrating the start of the new year with fireworks and festivities. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Good Friday | Varies (March/April) | Christian holiday commemorating crucifixion of Jesus. Part of Easter celebrations. | Limited services, plan accordingly. | ||
| Easter Sunday | Varies (March/April) | Christian holiday celebrating resurrection of Jesus. Families gather for meals. | Many places closed, enjoy local customs. | ||
| Easter Monday | Varies (March/April) | Public holiday following Easter Sunday. Continuation of Easter celebrations. | Some closures, but tourist areas open. | ||
| Labor Day | May 1 | International Workers' Day. Celebrates workers' rights and achievements. | Expect closures, plan for limited services. | ||
| Restoration of Independence Day | May 4 | Commemorates Latvia's declaration of independence from Soviet Union in 1990. | Patriotic events, some business closures. | ||
| Midsummer's Eve (Līgo) | June 23 | Pagan holiday celebrating summer solstice. Bonfires, wreaths, and folk songs. | Major celebration, avoid travel. | ||
| Midsummer's Day (Jāņi) | June 24 | Continuation of Midsummer celebrations. National holiday with outdoor festivities. | Nationwide celebration, expect closures. | ||
| Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia | November 18 | Latvia's Independence Day. Celebrates 1918 declaration of independence. | Patriotic events, many closures. | ||
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Evening before Christmas. Families gather for traditional meals and gift-giving. | Limited services, festive atmosphere. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian holiday celebrating birth of Jesus. Family gatherings and church services. | Most places closed, avoid travel. | ||
| Second Day of Christmas | December 26 | Continuation of Christmas celebrations. Public holiday with family gatherings. | Some closures, relaxed atmosphere. | ||
| New Year's Eve | December 31 | Celebration of the coming new year. Fireworks and parties across the country. | Festive atmosphere, book in advance. |
1 | Latvians value personal space. Avoid standing too close when talking and don't touch strangers. Handshakes are common for greetings, but hugging or kissing cheeks is reserved for close friends. |
2 | Learn basic Latvian phrases like 'Paldies' (thank you) and 'Lūdzu' (please). While many younger people speak English, older generations may not. Locals appreciate tourists who make an effort. |
3 | Tipping is not mandatory but becoming more common. In restaurants, 10% is appreciated for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tip tour guides if you're satisfied with their service. |
4 | Latvians are generally reserved and may seem aloof at first. Don't mistake this for rudeness; it's just their culture. They warm up once they get to know you better. |
5 | Punctuality is important in Latvia. Arrive on time for appointments and tours. If you're running late, call ahead to inform the person you're meeting. Being late is considered disrespectful. |
6 | Remove your shoes when entering someone's home. Some restaurants and guest houses may also ask you to remove shoes. It's polite to bring a small gift when visiting a Latvian home. |
7 | Public drinking is illegal in Latvia. Only consume alcohol in designated areas like bars and restaurants. Avoid carrying open containers of alcohol on the street to avoid fines. |
8 | Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees. Some places may provide shawls or wraps, but it's best to come prepared with appropriate clothing. |
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