Latvia by Rail

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or culture, or simply want to explore a charming European city, Riga has something to offer every type of traveller. Riga is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and the city boasts one of the largest and best preserved collections of Art Nouveau buildings in the world. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a bustling central market, stylish shops, and a thriving arts and culture scene.

Your hotel for today is only a 10-minute walk from Riga train station, or if you’d prefer, we can arrange for a taxi transfer to meet you upon arrival.

The tour begins at Dome Square and takes you to another part of the Daugava River which runs through the city. From here you can admire the spectacular panoramic view of the Old Town. On the route, you will pass the recently built National Library of Latvia and the Monument to the Liberators of Soviet Latvia as you head towards the neighbourhood of Āgenskalns which has still charming early 20th-century architecture.

Next, you will ride to Ķipsala Island and enjoy beautiful views from the riverbank. By crossing the Suspension bridge, you will enter the neighbourhood which locals call “The Quiet Center” where patricians of the late 19th and early 20th century lived and the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings are located. Passing through the boulevards of the city centre we will come to The “Moscow” district where the halls of The Central market are situated, which is absolutely one of the must-see places in Riga.

Today you will enjoy a picturesque walk in Sigulda and hike through medieval castle ruins, hills, caves, cliffs, impressive forests and other wonderful sights of the River Gauja valley.

The Gauja National Park, often called Switzerland of Latvia by locals, is the largest and oldest of the national parks in Latvia, characterized by great biological diversity, a variety of landscapes, natural springs, sandstone outcrops, picturesque views and unique natural, cultural and historical monuments. The walking route is 12 -14km. Alternative routes can be taken which are shorter. There is also an option to use the cable car to cross the river from Sigulda to Krimulda side.

Cēsis is a wonderful medieval town with a largely intact defensive stone wall, a historic Town Hall and other characteristic charms of a medieval city that can be dated back to at least the 14th century. Cēsis is a small town, so it’s best explored at a relaxed pace. It’s a great destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful getaway in Latvia. Make sure to take your time to enjoy the quaint cafés and artisan shops.

Cēsis Castle Complex

The castle complex is located in the very centre of the city, where a number of different historical areas intertwine. One of the most mysterious monuments of pre-crusader times is Riekstu Hill, an ancient hillfort once inhabited by the Vendi tribe – the cradle of present-day Cēsis. Right next to Riekstu Hill, the castle was built by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword in 1213 AD, and it also housed the Teutonic Order. In the Middle Ages it was one of the most important footholds for the Teutonic Order in the Baltics, but nowadays – it is the most impressive and well-preserved castle ruins in Latvia.

Overnight in Cēsis

Valmiera, the northern gateway to Gauja National Park, delights visitors with its beautiful nature and its cultural and historic monuments, along with hosting interesting cultural and sporting events, and providing breathtaking stories and legends.

Visiting Valmiermuiza Craft Brewery
Valmiermuiza is a small manor brewery near Valmiera. The beer is produced from the highest quality ingredients, following the principles of slow brewing. While visiting the factory, you will have a chance to find out how the rich history of the manor has influenced the production of the beer. During a 1.5-hour brewery visit, you will experience, and witness with your own eyes, how they brew fine beer from a combination of Valmiermuiža well water, delicious malt, aristocratic hops and natural yeast. An integral part of any visit is discovering and sampling the wide range of brews.

Overnight in Valmiera

Jūrmala is one of the oldest resorts on the whole Baltic coast with a long tradition as a spa resort. It used to be a very elegant and fancy spot during the 1930s and very popular after WWII. Today it is still a very popular holiday destination with a 30 km long white sand beach, pure air and mild climate. Besides beautiful beaches Jūrmala is also home to one of the largest heritage sites of historical wooden architecture in Latvia – 103 architectural monuments of national significance, we recommend going along Jūras iela, where one of the most beautiful houses is located.

There is an ecological fee upon entrance to Jūrmala. The fee is 3 EUR per car for a day and should be paid when you arrive to Jūrmala town. Ticket machines are located at the entrance of the town. You can also purchase a Jūrmala pass at the Tourist information office during their working hours.

Overnight in Jūrmala

From the train station, there is a 5 km distance to the Ķemeri Bog boardwalk. This day can be done as a longer hike from the train station to the bog and back, or you can rent bicycles in Jūrmala and cover longer distances by bike. Ķemeri National Park is a natural wonder inhabited by thousands of migrating birds and was once a popular resort for medical tourism and healthy bathing in sulfur water and sludge. While the times of healthy bathing are long gone, tourists come here to soak in the unique beauty of the region and explore the ruins of a bygone era. Ķemeri bog is a real gem for nature lovers with its undersized pine trees, deep pools, tiny dark lakes and the flavour of wild rosemary. The Ķemeri bog trail offers two walks – a shorter one of 1.4km and a longer one of 3.4 km.

Train from Ķemeri to Jūrmala. Overnight in Jūrmala

Train from Jūrmala to Riga