Best time to visit

The best time to visit Latvia is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, Latvia experiences mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the country's natural beauty. May and June offer pleasant weather, blooming flora, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, making it an excellent time for hiking, cycling, and visiting Latvia's charming towns and historical sites. July and August are peak tourist months, with warmer temperatures and lively festivals, particularly in cities like Riga and Jurmala. September brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it another ideal time to visit without the peak summer rush. Additionally, autumn offers beautiful foliage, cultural events, and opportunities for experiencing Latvia's rich heritage and culinary delights.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Latvia is Latvian, a Baltic language that is spoken by the majority of the population.

Currency: The official currency of Latvia is the Euro (EUR).

Safety: Latvia is generally a safe country for travelers. Crime rates are relatively low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any destination, tourists should exercise standard precautions to safeguard their belongings and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation. Pickpocketing can occur in tourist hotspots, so it's essential to keep valuables secure. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic can be unpredictable, particularly in urban areas.

Cuisine: Latvian cuisine is influenced by the country's geography, climate, and cultural heritage, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Traditional Latvian dishes often include rye bread, potatoes, dairy products, and freshwater fish. Rye bread is a staple of Latvian cuisine and is often served with butter, cheese, or smoked fish. Potatoes are used in various dishes, such as potato pancakes (kartupeļu pankūkas) and potato salad (kartupeļu salāti). Dairy products, including sour cream, cottage cheese, and kefir, are also prominent in Latvian cuisine. Fish, particularly herring, perch, and pike, are popular ingredients in dishes like smoked fish salad (zivju kūka) and pickled herring (rīgu sālāti). Latvian cuisine also incorporates berries, mushrooms, and wild herbs, especially during the summer and autumn months. Additionally, Latvia's culinary scene is influenced by neighboring countries such as Russia, Sweden, and Germany, with dishes like pelmeni (dumplings), herring salad, and sauerkraut being common.