Latvia
Description
Latvia, »the hidden gem of Northern Europe« is a beautiful country in the Baltic region known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. The capital city, Riga, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant Old Town. Wander through picturesque towns like Cēsis and Kuldīga, where history comes alive, and indulge in the serene beauty of Gauja National Park’s lush forests and ancient castles. Relax on the pristine beaches of Jūrmala or immerse yourself in local traditions at the famous Latvian Song and Dance Festival. With delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and a rich cultural heritage to explore, Latvia has something to offer for everyone.

Facts about Latvia
Latvia is a Northern European country located in the Baltic region, bordering the Baltic Sea to the west and sharing land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. It covers an area of approximately 64,589 square kilometres and features a diverse landscape characterised by forests, rivers, lakes, and a coastline of around 500 kilometres. Latvia has a population of about 1.9 million people. The official language is Latvian, while Russian is also widely spoken. The official currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR).
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DID YOU KNOW?
- Latvia is home to over 1,000 castles and manors, showcasing its rich mediaeval history and stunning architecture.
- The country is known for its spa culture, particularly in the seaside town of Jūrmala, which offers various wellness treatments using the region’s natural resources, such as mineral waters and mud.
- Around 50% of Latvia is covered by forests, making it a great destination for nature lovers. The country also has over 3,000 rivers and 2,000 lakes.
- Riga's Central Market, housed in old zeppelin hangars, is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Europe, offering a wide variety of local produce, meats, and crafts.
- Latvia has a rich tradition of folk music and dance, with many songs using a unique vocal style known as "sutartinės," which features two or more voices harmonising with each other.
- Latvia won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2002 with the song "I Wanna" performed by Marie N. This made it the first Baltic state to win the competition.
- There is a part of the Baltic shore called the Amber Coast, a region famous for its precious amber deposits.
What to do?
- - Explore Riga and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town.
- - Relax at the popular seaside resort of Jūrmala, known for its sandy beaches, wooden houses, and spa facilities.
- - Discover the stunning Rundāle Palace, one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in the Baltic region.
- - Visit the picturesque town of Sigulda, often called the "Switzerland of Latvia”.
- - Hiking, birdwatching.
- - Enjoy the pristine nature in places like Kemeri National Park.
- - Taste traditional Latvian food at local restaurants.
Start your journey!