Destination Guides
Latvia
Kuldiga
Latvia centers a trip around Riga, whose Art Nouveau architecture and well-preserved medieval old town make it one of the Baltic region's most distinctive capitals. Late spring through summer (May-August) brings the mildest weather and long daylight hours. A 3-4 day trip covers Riga comfortably and pairs naturally with a Baltic itinerary alongside Estonia and Lithuania. Because the three Baltic capitals sit close enough together to combine easily, an advisor's help sequencing a multi-stop Baltic route (and deciding how many days each city truly deserves) makes for a smoother trip.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Latvian culture is reserved with strangers initially, and genuinely warm once a rapport is established.
Friendly greetings: A brief, firm handshake is standard, first names used once acquainted.
Dress respectfully: Casual and practical, layer for cool evenings even in summer.
Dining times: Lunch around noon, dinner from 6:30-8:00pm.
Local customs: Latvians take folk traditions and song festivals seriously, a deep source of national pride following the country's Soviet-era history.
Transportation and timing: Riga's old town is compact and best explored on foot, trams and buses cover the rest of the city well.
Practical tip: Riga pairs easily with Tallinn and Vilnius by bus, a common and comfortable way to link all three Baltic capitals.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: Latvian rye bread products or a bottle of Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur.
For the Fashionistas: A piece of amber jewelry, the Baltic region is one of the world's richest sources.
For the Home: A piece of hand-knit Latvian mittens, a traditional and highly patterned local craft.
Suggested Gratuities
Private Tour Guides: €10-15 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: €5 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare
Restaurants: 10% for good service
Private Drivers: €10-15 per trip
Housekeeping: €1-2 per night
Porters: €1-2 per bag
Spa Staff: 10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Euro
Language: Latvian, English widely spoken among younger residents and in tourist areas
Transportation: Riga's old town is walkable, trams and buses for the rest of the city, buses connect to Tallinn and Vilnius
Weather: Mild summers with long daylight hours, cold winters
Walking: Old town has cobblestone streets, comfortable shoes recommended
Related Blogs