Latvia Attractions
Latvia is slowly becoming a popular tourist destination. It is incredibly interesting place to explore, as the country has social and cultural differences between regions, which makes the journey involving and unforgettable. But all the same, Latvia is one of Europe's hidden treasures, just waiting to be explored. Riga, being in the middle ages one of the Hanseatic cities, now has many medieval houses. You will be really pleased with some exquisite Art Nouveau buildings, Riga possesses. Enjoy a unique blend of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, used in the architecture of the Dome Cathedral. Want to get to known the traditional Latvian way of life, visit the Open Air Ethnographic Museum. The tourists can wander around farmhouses, fishing villages, and windmills, exhibited outdoors. Coming to the capital on a weekend, you should know that modern Riga has gained a reputation of a party city, because of a wide range of sophisticated bars, clubs and restaurants.
The closest neighbor of the capital is a small town of Sigulda. Because of weather conditions, it has several nicknames: “winter capital of Latvia” or “Switzerland of Latvia”. Ventspils has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latvia. You will be amazed with its sights and attractions, among which Castle of the Livonian Order, Children’s village (entertainment center), and Open Air Water Park. Traveling around eastern Latvia, the tourists should visit Rezekne, famous for its pottery traditions. Local craft is based on ancient traditions, so do not forget to buy some souvenirs to take back home.
Of course, no trip to Latvia is fully complete without coming to the largest resort in the Baltic States – Jurmala. Why not experiencing excellent natural conditions, strengthening your health, enjoying the healing effects of the mineral waters and trying mud bathing. All these you can get in Jurmala. The pride of the northern region of Latvia is the ancient city of Valmiera – a paradise for the history lovers. The ruins of the Livonian castle, beautiful St. Simon’s Church are adored both by locals and comers. Other cities of historical interest are Cesis, Limbazi and Jelgava.