Geography

Latvia is located in eastern Europe in the heart of the Baltic States.  It shares borders with Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, and Russia and Belarus to the east.  In the west, Latvia has a coastline of 500 km on the Baltic Sea.  Wooded areas, lakes and rivers are common on the relatively flat lands of Latvia.

Discover Latvia

It is best to visit Latvia during the summer months when the sun is hot and the days are long.  Drive to the beautiful sandy beaches in Jurmala or Liepaja and work on your tan or swim in the Baltic Sea.  There are public beaches in all of the seaside cities, but you can find a secluded spot if you drive along the coast and explore the nooks and crannies.  Inland, there are hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails through Latvia’s pristine national parks.  For a look into the urban life, go to Riga and explore the old town.  Visit museums, see amazing architecture, walk through urban parks or enjoy an authentic Latvian meal.  Outside of Riga you will discover castles, palaces and historical medieval towns.

Latvia is a great place to witness the changing of the seasons.  Autumn and its vibrant colors provide stunning scenery with mild temperatures.  However, one day it will finally give in to winter and the country becomes dusted with a layer of snow.  The days become short and the temperature turns cold.  Tourism slows down but it is a good time to visit the indoor attractions of museums and theatres or see the Christmas decorations around the cities.  In the spring, the people come alive with the rebirth of the landscape.  The trees are sprouting and the cities are buzzing with the anticipation of summer.  Warm temperatures bring the festival season and the return of tourism.  Be sure to book hotels in advance for the summer months because it is the busiest time of the year.