Day Trips from Riga: the best day trips around Riga

The capital of Latvia, Riga is a lady from another time. Located at the mouth of the Daugava River, it is a cultural city offering the chance to discover its art and traditions. In full Art Nouveau style with some Gothic touches, Riga perfectly resembles a typical neat and clean Northern European city; its historic center has kept a medieval flavor and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Located a few kilometers from Riga, at the gates of Gauja National Park, lies Sigulda, famous for its bobsled track, which is lots of fun and usable both in winter and summer (in the absence of snow, wheeled sleds are used), and for its castle, almost in ruins, yet offering a charming view of the Gauja River that runs through the gorges, which you can "fly over" using the cable car.

From one castle to another, to reach the red one of Turaida, a town not far from Sigulda (about 6 km). Completely built of red clay (hence its characteristic color), it dates back to 1214 and was built by the Bishop of Riga. The castle tower offers a 360° view of the Latvian forest, traversed by the river and adorned with ancient ruined castles. The manor is also surrounded by a beautiful garden featuring numerous modern art statues.

Cesis is a small medieval village in the Latvian interior, also famous for its castle. Built between 1209 and 1224 by the order of the Bishop of Riga, it was damaged by Ivan the Terrible in 1577 and was rebuilt during the Great Northern War. No longer inhabited, it is now one of the main attractions. The castle is surrounded by a large park, which contains a theater where performances are still held today.

The atmosphere within the castle is somewhat decayed and mysterious, especially if you visit during the short, dark winter days when you will even be equipped with a lantern. In Cesis, you will also find the oldest brewery in Latvia, producing the famous and delicious "Cesu" beer.

Located a few kilometers from Riga, this very interesting open-air museum tells the ethnographic rural life of the Latvian population. From furnished houses to crafts, from churches to mills, to lifestyles. A total immersion into a bygone era, adorned with a romantic atmosphere that brings the colors of the lake overlooking which the museum is located, from the snow covering the villages in winter, and from the shy blue sky of summer.

Characterized by breathtaking views that change colors and appearances throughout the seasons, remaining wonderful and unforgettable. Kemeri National Park is certainly a must-visit for a scenic and natural excursion. Located just over 37 km from Riga and covering about 380 square kilometers, it ranks as the third-largest national park in Latvia. It includes rivers, lakes, and springs and is crisscrossed by a network of wooden walkways (the most important trail is the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk), which cut through the swamp and the silence of Latvian nature.

Fresh air, tender birds that pop up here and there to keep you company (mainly mallards and small birds), the scent of wild blueberries, promise an outing that has everything a visitor could want: from those seeking peace and quiet to those looking for an unforgettable adventure.

No internet when you need it most? Don't take the risk! With Saily's eSIMs, you can connect instantly, anywhere, and without stress! Use the code "europeoftales.net" for a 5% discount just for you! Learn more

Considered the largest and most important palace in Latvia, built and designed by architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli (the same as the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg) in the 18th century, inaugurated as the summer residence of Ernest Johann von Biron, Duke of Courland, in 1736, this royal palace is certainly a must-see during a trip to Riga.

Surrounded by a beautiful French-style garden and immersed in the Latvian countryside, which you will enjoy during the journey, it is a true Baroque masterpiece. A not-to-miss visit to discover the wonderful rooms that comprise it, the history of the palace itself, and the many mysterious legends that surround the building. The palace is currently home to the Faculty of Agriculture.