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Latvia

Latvia, a Baltic treasure, invites visitors with its rich history and natural splendour. In Riga, the vibrant capital, you can marvel at the art nouveau architecture, explore the medieval Old Town, and enjoy a lively cultural scene. The serene beaches of the Jurmala resort offer a relaxing escape with their golden sands and pine forests. Venture into the countryside to discover the charming town of Sigulda, known as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” with its castles and lush Gauja National Park.

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What you’ll love most about Latvia

  • Wander through Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where medieval churches, Art Nouveau façades, and cobbled streets reveal Latvia’s rich history and charm
  • Explore the stunning beaches of Jurmala, where golden sands, pine forests, and historic wooden villas create a perfect Baltic seaside escape
  • Discover Latvia’s medieval past at Cesis Castle, where centuries-old ruins and interactive exhibits bring the country’s knightly history to life
  • Hike through Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest national park, with dense forests, dramatic cliffs, and ancient caves steeped in folklore
  • Visit Rundāle Palace, a baroque masterpiece with lavish halls, sprawling gardens, and a fascinating glimpse into Latvia’s aristocratic past
  • Experience Latvia’s unique sauna culture, from traditional smoke saunas to modern spa retreats, where relaxation and wellness take centre stage

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Riga’s weather patterns

  • Krimulda Palace, Gauja National Park near Sigulda, Latvia

  • Kemeri National Park bog trail, Latvia

  • Beach in Jurmala, Latvia

  • Rundale Castle, Latvia

  • Woman in an ice hole of a frozen lake in Latvia

  • Cesvaine medieval castle, Latvia

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • -1℃
  • 0℃
  • 5℃
  • 12℃
  • 17℃
  • 21℃
  • 24℃
  • 23℃
  • 18℃
  • 11℃
  • 5℃
  • 1℃
  • 11
  • 8
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13
  • 11
  • 13
  • 13
  • 16
  • 14
  • 11

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Latvia’s winter landscape is at its most magical, with temperatures often plunging to -1°C to -15°C. Snow blankets the countryside, making Gauja National Park a stunning destination for cross-country skiing. In Riga, the Old Town’s medieval streets are illuminated with festive lights, and traditional piragi (bacon buns) and hot blackcurrant drinks keep the cold at bay.

February

The cold persists, but Jurmala’s spas and saunas provide a warm retreat. Locals celebrate Metenis, a traditional pre-spring festival featuring sledding, bonfires, and folk music. Ice fishing on Lake Lubāns is a unique winter activity for those willing to brave the elements.

March

Temperatures begin to ease, ranging from -3°C to 5°C, though snow can linger. The first hints of spring appear, and Riga’s Art Nouveau district looks particularly striking under the last frosts. Cultural events like the Riga Opera Festival start to draw visitors.

April

Spring takes hold, with temperatures rising to 3°C to 12°C. The countryside awakens, making it a great time to visit Kemeri National Park, where boardwalk trails lead through wetlands filled with migrating birds. Easter celebrations bring markets and traditional painted eggs to towns and villages.

May

With temperatures climbing to 8°C to 17°C, the landscapes burst into bloom. This is one of the best months to explore Cēsis, where medieval castle ruins sit among flowering meadows. The Riga Marathon takes place, and outdoor cafés start to reopen along the Daugava River.

June

Latvia’s Jāņi (Midsummer Festival) is the highlight of the year, with bonfires, folk dancing, and plenty of caraway cheese and beer. With long daylight hours and temperatures averaging 12°C to 21°C, it’s perfect for hiking in Sigulda or relaxing on the sandy beaches of Jurmala.

July

The peak of summer brings temperatures around 15°C to 24°C, making it the best time for coastal getaways. The beaches of Ventspils and Liepāja fill with sunseekers, while the Saulkrasti Jazz Festival brings music lovers to the seaside.

August

Warm days continue, with temperatures still hovering between 14°C to 23°C. It’s an excellent month for kayaking along the Gauja River or visiting the Rundāle Palace, Latvia’s version of Versailles, where gardens are in full bloom.

September

Autumn colors begin to spread through the forests, with temperatures cooling to 10°C to 18°C. This is the start of mushroom-picking season, a cherished Latvian tradition. Sigulda, often called the "Switzerland of Latvia," is particularly scenic at this time of year.

October

Crisp air and golden leaves make for perfect hiking conditions in Gauja National Park. With temperatures around 5°C to 11°C, it’s a quieter time to visit Latvia’s castles, such as Turaida, where misty mornings add a mystical feel.

November

The chill deepens, and daylight hours shorten, with temperatures dropping to 0°C to 5°C. Lāčplēsis Day, Latvia’s equivalent of Remembrance Day, is marked by candlelit tributes along Riga’s Daugava Embankment.

December

Latvia embraces the festive spirit, with Riga’s Christmas Market transforming Dome Square into a winter wonderland. With temperatures between 1°C and -8°C, the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine fills the air, and ice skating rinks pop up across the city.

Our Ratings

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