Latvia / Latvijas Republika – Let’s explore here
Ah, the land of storks and impatient drivers! Latvia is a small, very low lying country in the Baltic region in the East of Europe. Most of the country is less than 350 feet above sea level, and there are lots of managed woodlands, natural forests, lakes and wetlands. The highest point is Gaiziņkalns, just east of the centre, at 1,024 ft (312m) above sea level.
Its neighbours are Estonia, Belarus, Russia and Lithuania, several of which it shares its history with. It also operates a digital nomad via scheme, which you may find of interest. Oh, and did I mention there were storks, like … everywhere!
Current travels
We’ve created a blog for our visit to Latvia. You may find it helpful, and you may pick up some tips, or more likely mistakes not to make that we’ve made 😉
On our current road trip we travelled from Häädemeeste in Estonia, via Salacgrīva down the coastal road to Sigulda in Latvia, before moving on to the capital, Riga. We then went to the lovely seaside resort of Jūrmala, Kuldīga, Lake Usma, Ventspils, Liepaja, and Vainode, before moving on to Lithuania.
This is a map of the route that we took through Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania
Estonia: Tallinn – Keila – Rummu – Haapsalu – Lihula – Pärnu – Häädemeeste – Ikla
Latvia: Salacgrīva – coast (South of Salacgrīva) – Sigulda – Riga – Jūrmala – Kuldīga – Lake Usma – Ventspils – Liepaja – Vainode
Lithuania: Palanga – Klaipėda – Kaunas – Kėdainiai – Vilnius
We’ve definitely learned a lot about the intriguing country, and met a lot of different people. In our view it’s a very economically divided country, and although clearly a lot of people are making money – judging by the cars – a lot appear to live it a great deal of poverty. You can read more about our thoughts in our Latvia blog.
We’ve also created a blog for Latvia, which you may find interesting!
Our best places in Latvia
Beach south of Salacgrīva
There a lovely beach right on the main road where the sea and the road meet – it’s the only place that they do on the whole stretch down the coast. A super and isolated beach – well worth the trip!
Riga
What a great city Riga is, so picturesque and at the same time so lively! Way too many bars – can that be a thing? Loads to see and do. Loads of live music and a great atmosphere.
Jūrmala
Jūrmala is a pretty seaside town, and so friendly too. When we were there, there were people dancing in the street. It was all smiles galore. Great beach – lovely soft white sand! Plenty of restaurants and café’s.
Lake Usma
Lake Usma is a tranquil really well kept lake that’s a mecca for small sailing boats! There’s a great atmosphere, and the people are really proud of the area.
What’s it like to drive in Latvia?
As a whole Latvian drivers must be the most impatient drivers in Europe! They love to race up behind you – even though you’re at the speed limit – then hover 30cm behind you, before racing off again – despite there being too little space to do so – putting everyone else in mortal peril! The only time they slow down is when there’s a speed camera – before launching off again at the earliest opportunity! Goodness knows what important events they all have to get to!
We found the best thing to do was relax, and let them get on with it! They’re soon gone. They’re like the opposite of Norweigans!
We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂
What currency do they use in Latvia?
In Lithuania they use the Euro. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread. Traveller’s cheques are accepted. There are lots of ATMs.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Latvia?
They speak Latvian in Latvia, although English is also spoken, although mainly in tourist areas. We found that many do not speak English, and in fact they take offence at the fact that you don’t speak Latvian.
What time zone is Latvia in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Latvia?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Latvia?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Latvia, although you should avoid national parks and natural reserves.
Is it safe to drink water in Latvia?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Latvia. Bottled water is also readily available across the country.
If you’ve got some awesome pictures, or some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!