10 Best Day Trips from Riga, Latvia (Top Guided Tours Included!)

Visiting Riga and have a spare day left on your itinerary? Here are the best day trips from Riga to fix it for you.

Riga is the capital of Latvia conveniently located on the Baltic Sea. The strategic position in the heart of the country offers multiple Riga day trips that you don’t want to miss.

Considering the compact size of Latvia, not only you can explore some of the most beautiful places in Latvia, but even cross the border and see other Baltic Countries. Sounds exciting?

So let’s dive in! This guide of the best day trips from Riga will feature the best destinations that you can easily reach from Riga and visit in one day. Guided tours and best day trips from Riga by train included!

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Best Riga day trips

Jurmala

Is Jurmala worth visiting?

Jurmala is probably the most popular Riga day trip and for all the right reasons. Jurmala is a picturesque seaside resort town that’s definitely worth a visit, especially in summer.

How far is Jurmala from Riga?

Jurmala lies about 25 kilometers away from Riga and it takes 30-40 minutes depending on the transport that you choose to use.

How to go from Riga to Jurmala?

The best way to reach Jurmala is by train directions Tukums 2, Dubulti, or Sloka. It is a quick and scenic 30-40-minute ride from Riga Central Station. You can buy the ticket directly at the station and it will cost you 1.50 euro for a single one-way ticket.

Keep in mind that the best stops to get off will be Majori, Bulduri, Dzintari, and Dubulti (Jurmala stop doesn’t exist!). I would suggest you take the train to Majori, walk Jomas Street and from the beach walk back until you reach Dzintari or Bulduri.

A taxi ride will cost you approximately 25 euros and you can use the Bolt app to get your ride. You can put Jomas Street as your final destination.

Some of the best things to do in Jurmala that you shouldn’t miss

The long sandy beach is the main attraction in Jurmala. It’s a perfect place to relax and swim during warmer months or for a romantic along the Baltic Sea stroll during the shoulder season. Make sure you find the Bronze statue “The Turtle” and take a pic with this iconic attraction located on the beach.

Exploring the beautiful art nouveau and wooden villas in the area is another must-do in Jurmala. There are hundreds of beautiful houses located near the water or between the trees.

The Dzintari Forest Park is ideal for a peaceful stroll between the trees. This is a great place for those who are passionate about nature and intimate locations. Or families traveling with kids.

And finally, wandering along Jomas Street, a lively hub with cafes, shops, and local vibes, and beautiful houses is an absolute must. Don’t miss the chance to have a meal or a drink in one of the terraces. For an authentic touch of local food and drinks check Alus Krodziņš.

Also, if you are going to Jurmala during summer and want to relax on the beach, make sure you avoid popular areas like Majori and Dubulti. And if you are a family visiting Jurmala with kids, you might like Līvu Akvaparks, which is the biggest indoor waterpark in the Baltics.

Sigulda and Turaida

Is Sigulda worth visiting?

Sigulda is undoubtedly worth a visit, earning its reputation as the “Switzerland of Latvia.” This picturesque town is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. It is one of the best day trips from Riga, especially during the fall.

How far is Sigulda from Riga?

Sigulda is located approximately 53 kilometers northeast of the capital, making it a perfect Riga day trip destination. It takes around one hour to go from Riga to Sigulda.

How to go from Riga to Sigulda?

You can easily get to Sigulda by using the public transport.

Regular trains serve the town and they are the convenient ways to reach Sigulda. Trains depart regularly from Riga’s central station and it takes around one hour to reach Sigulda. The ticket costs 2.10 euros and you can buy it directly at the station.

Buses also provide access to Sigulda, with a travel time of about 1 hour. Check the schedule at Riga Central Bus Station.

Some of the best things to do in Sigulda

The medieval Sigulda Castle dates back to the Livonian Order. It is a significant historical site in the region. The ruins provide a glimpse into Latvia’s rich past. And don’t miss the Sigulda New Castle, it was built in the Neo-Gothic style in 1878.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Gauja National Park. It offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventures, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. And don’t forget to visit Gutman’s Cave as it is the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries.

Explore Krimulda Manor, a charming estate with lovely gardens, a park, and a neo-gothic chapel.

When visiting Sigulda, a cable car ride over the Gauja River is an absolute must. From there, you can admire beautiful landscapes over Latvian nature from a privileged birds-eye view.

For an adrenaline rush, try the bobsleigh track in Sigulda, which is open to visitors. As an alternative, you can visit Tarzans, or even try bungee jumping from the cable car of Sigulda.

Turaida Castle is an impressive fortress just a stone’s throw from Sigulda. This is one of the most beautiful castles in Latvia. The scenic walk to Turaida Castle is an experience in itself, and the panoramic views from the tower are breathtaking. 

Looking for a tour that takes you from Riga to Sigulda? 

For an easy and unforgettable experience, you can book a private tour that will take you through the highlights of Sigulda and its surroundings. The guided tour will also introduce you to Latvia’s rich history.

This is a convenient solution for people who don’t worry about planning their visit with public transport and people who have limited time in Latvia.

Cesis

Is Cesis worth visiting?

Cesis is another best Riga day trips you might want to consider when visiting Latvia. If you appreciate history, charming old towns, and a peaceful atmosphere, this is the place to be. Another great fall destination as well!

How far is Cesis from Riga?

Cesis is situated about 90 kilometers northeast of Riga, making it an easily accessible day trip destination. It takes around 2 hours by public transport or 1 hour by car.

How to go from Riga to Cesis?

Cesis is one of the best day trips from Riga by train and the ride takes approximately 2 hours. Trains depart regularly from Riga’s central station and you will need to look for a train heading to Valga or Valmiera.

A single one-way train ticket will cost you 3.70 euros and you can buy the ticket at the Central Station.

Buses also connect Riga to Cesis, with a similar travel time. You can check the bus schedules at Riga Central Bus Station.

The most beautiful places in Cesis

The main attraction of the town is the Cesis Castle, a medieval fortress with a rich history. The castle dates back to the Livonian Order times and grounds provide a glimpse into the past. And the views from the tower are spectacular.

The charming streets of Cesis Old Town are the perfect place for a stroll. Here you’ll find picturesque buildings, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Latvian culture.

Visit St. John’s Church, a beautiful Gothic-style church that is a prominent landmark in Cesis. And if you’re interested in learning more about the town’s history and culture, don’t miss the Cesis History and Art Museum.

Enjoy Latvian cuisine at one of the local restaurants in Cesis. Try traditional dishes like gray peas with bacon or Latvian rye bread. For an unforgettable meal, I recommend H.E. Vanadziņš. Ziemeļu restorāns, while if you just looking for a quick bite or drink you can visit Melnais Gulbis.

Kuldiga

Is Kuldiga worth visiting?

Kuldiga is for sure worth a visit, especially if you appreciate natural beauty, charming small towns, and unique experiences. Kuldīga has Europe’s widest waterfall (width 249 m), which makes it one of the most popular destinations in Latvia.

How far is Kuldiga from Riga?

Kuldiga is located approximately 150 kilometers west of Riga, offering a different side of Latvia’s beauty.

How to go from Riga to Kuldiga?

The most convenient way to reach Kuldiga is by car. The journey typically takes around 2-2.5 hours, and it provides the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Also, if you are visiting Kuldiga by car, you can make stops on your way and see some other beautiful places in Latvia like Jaunmoku Pils (the castle that you see in the main photo of this article) or Tukums.

If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus from Riga to Kuldiga. The travel time by bus is roughly the same, taking around 2-2.5 hours. Check the bus schedules at Riga Central Bus Station.

What are the best things to do in Kuldiga?

Don’t miss the Venta Waterfall, one of the widest waterfalls in Europe. It’s a breathtaking natural wonder and one of the main reasons why you should visit Kuldiga.

If you are visiting Venta Waterfall during spring, you might see the famous flying fish show while the fall offers wonderful foliage. Summer is the busiest time and you can enjoy some sunshine next to the waterfalls.

The iconic brick bridge in Kuldiga is one of the most famous landmarks in Latvia. The view of the Venta River is picturesque. The bridge was built in 1874 and is the longest bridge of this kind of road bridge in Europe.

The charming and well-preserved Old Town of Kuldiga is an absolute must, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets.

Nature lovers will love the Riezupe Sand Caves, a natural wonder with impressive sand formations and underground passages.

Try local dishes and enjoy Latvian cuisine at one of the cozy restaurants in Kuldiga. My recommendation is Bangert’s Restaurant for a gourmet dinner in style. If you are looking for something more “homemade” that will give you a genuine taste of Latvia, head to Pagrabiņš.

Jelgava

Is Jelgava worth visiting?

Jelgava is worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in exploring historical sites and Latvian culture. Also, this is not a tourist destination, so perfect way to blend with the locals.

How far is Jelgava from Riga?

Jelgava is conveniently located approximately 42 kilometers southwest of the Latvian capital, making it one of the best Riga day trips.

How to go from Riga to Jelgava?

Jelgava is one of the best day trips from Riga by train, the journey is quick and straightforward and takes about 45 minutes. Trains depart regularly from Riga’s central station. The ticket costs 2.10 euros.

Buses also connect Riga to Jelgava, with a similar travel time of about 45 minutes. You can check the bus schedules at Riga Central Bus Station.

Best places to visit in Jelgava

The impressive Jelgava Palace is the best place to start your visit. It is a stunning example of Latvian Baroque architecture. The palace houses the Latvian Agriculture University and offers guided tours to visitors.

Pilssalas skatu tornis is perfect for a picturesque view of the surrounding area and the city. In the wetlands around the tower, you might meet beautiful wild horses. Keep in mind that it is not possible to visit the park from the 1st of April until the 30th of June because of the birds’ nesting season.

The history and culture lovers will find their place at the Jelgava History and Art Museum. It provides insights into the town’s past and artistic achievements.

Get in touch with the spiritual side of the town by visiting the St.Simeon and St.Ann Orthodox Cathedral and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Virgin Mary.

The Jelgava St. Trinity Church Tower is one of the most iconic buildings in Jelgava and offers a beautiful view over the town.

Try regional dishes and enjoy the flavors of Latvian food. One of my favorite places for a great meal in Jelgava is PARKS Grilbārs & restorāns.

Bauska and Rundale

Is Bauska worth visiting?

Bauska is undoubtedly worth a visit, particularly if you have an interest in history and beautiful architecture. It is one of the most awesome day trips from Riga that will make you discover the iconic Rundale Palace.

How far is Bauska from Riga?

Bauska is located approximately 73 kilometers south of Riga, offering a manageable day trip distance.

How to go from Riga to Bauska?

One of the most convenient ways to reach Bauska from Riga is by bus. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours, and you can check the bus schedules at Riga Central Bus Station.

To reach Rundale Palace you need to take a bus from the central town of Bauska (bus to Pilsrundale). During the summer season, there is a direct bus connecting Riga to Rundale Palace.

Amazing things to do in Bauska

Rundale Palace is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in the area. It is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The palace’s stunning gardens are perfect for a stroll and photography.

During the summer months, the rose garden is an explosion of colors as hundreds of flowers bloom. The palace also boasts a Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art including paintings, tapestries, costumes, and more. 

Another iconic location in this small town is Bauska Castle. This historical gem boasts a fascinating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. The castle offers a glimpse into Latvia’s past and provides excellent views from its tower.

Restorāns Mūza is a perfect place to enjoy your meal during your Riga day trip to Bauska.

Kemeri National Park

Is Kemeri National Park worth visiting?

Kemeri National Park offers a variety of attractions and activities for nature enthusiasts. It is a popular Riga day trip all year long, but the warmer months are the best to visit the area.

How far is Kemeri National Park from Riga?

Kemeri National Park is conveniently located around 42 kilometers west of Riga.

How to go from Riga to Kemeri National Park?

The most convenient way to reach Kemeri National Park is by car. The ride will take you between 45 minutes and 1 hour according to the traffic. The parking costs 3 euros and you will need to pay in cash.

You can also use the train from Riga Central Station. Buy the ticket to Kemeri and hop on the train direction Tukums 1 or Tukums 2. However, the train stop is 40 minutes walk away from the park.

During the summer season, you can rent a bike from the train station which costs around 3 euros. After you can use the bike inside the park or leave it in the designated areas for the paths that don’t allow bikes.

What to do at the Kemeri National Park?

The Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk is a unique and picturesque trail that takes you through a pristine wetland ecosystem. It’s perfect for birdwatching and experiencing the beauty of Latvia’s natural landscape.

Visit the Kemeri Moorland, a distinctive landscape characterized by small lakes, forests, and meadows. It’s a peaceful place for hiking and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Bird watcher enthusiasts will love the birdwatching tower, which provides an excellent vantage point for observing the rich birdlife in the park.

The park is also home to natural mineral springs, and you can take a sip of the healing mineral water believed to have health benefits.

I have to warn you that there are no restaurants in the area, but there are picnic tables. So bring your own food, and water and enjoy the picnic in the nature.

There is no entrance fee, which makes it one of the best free things to do in Latvia.

Day trip from Riga to Vilnius

Is Vilnius worth visiting?

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and one of the most beautiful cities in the Baltic Countries. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture.

How far is Vilnius from Riga?

Vilnius is located approximately 300 kilometers southeast of the capital of Latvia. Despite being a bit farther than some other options, it is still one of the best day trips from Riga.

How to go from Riga to Vilnius?

The best way to reach Vilnius from Riga is by bus. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, providing a comfortable ride with good connections between the two cities.

You can check the bus schedules and purchase your tickets here or at Riga Bus Station.

Cool things to do in Vilnius during your day trip

The best starting point is the charming Old Town of Vilnius, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Here you will find many beautiful churches and the impressive Gate of Dawn.

The beautiful Vilnius Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece with a stunning neoclassical facade. An impressive 57-meter-tall bell tower stands right by the cathedral and is one of the symbols of Vilnius. The tower offers visitors a spectacular view of the Old Town.

Art lovers and hipsters will love exploring the self-proclaimed “Republic of Užupis,” a quirky and artistic neighborhood with its own constitution and unique atmosphere.

Another iconic symbol of Vilnius Gediminas Tower, with panoramic views of the city from the top. The tower hosts a historic exhibition displaying reconstruction models of the castles of the Lithuanian capital. This is probably the best place to catch a sunset on Vilnius’s red roofs.

Try some iconic Lithuanian dishes like Cepelini in Lokys restaurant to discover some Baltic flavors and treat yourself to some Skruzdėlynas

Day trip from Riga to Tallinn

Is Tallinn worth visiting?

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and it’s becoming one of the most popular destinations not only in the Baltic States but in all the north of Europe. It is known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, rich history, and unique blend of Nordic and Baltic influences.

How far is Tallinn from Riga?

Tallinn is located approximately 315 kilometers northwest of the Capital of Latvia, making it a suitable Riga day trip destination, although it’s a bit farther than some other options.

How to go from Riga to Tallinn?

Just like for Vilnius, the best way to reach Tallinn from Riga is by bus and the journey takes about 4-5 hours.

You can check the bus schedules and purchase your tickets here or at Riga Bus Station.

Best places to visit in Tallinn

The best thing to do in Tallinn is discover the charming Old Town of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Inside the old town, you will find iconic buildings such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, and the Town Hall building.

The panoramic viewpoints over Tallinn’s Old Town are a must-do for any visitor to the Estonian capital. Look up Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform and Patkuli Viewing Platform and don’t forget to bring your camera.

The Kadriorg Palace is a magnificent baroque palace surrounded by beautiful gardens and home to the Kadriorg Art Museum.

A meal in one of the historical restaurants of the city is a must to get in touch with local flavors. I recommend Old Hansa for a medieval feast and Kompressor for some incredible pancakes.

Day trip from Riga to Lithuania

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 5-7 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability

If you are looking for one of the most original day trips from Riga to Lithuania, this is probably the best option you have.

You will have the chance to pass the Latvian-Lithuanian border and visit the impressive Hills of Crosses in Lithuania which is closer to Riga than Vilnius or Kaunas.

You will drive through the rural landscape of Southern Latvia, and finally, you will discover Jelgava town on the way.

Other things to note:

• this is a private tour and only your group will participate;
• hotel pickup and drop-off is included;
• you will have a professional guide during your tour;
• Drinking water is included.

What did guests love about this tour from Riga?

“The journey from Riga was very interesting I saw roe deer, fox and what Armands called a raccoon dog. The trip was lovely. The hill of the crosses may not be to everyone’s taste but to see more of beautiful Latvia it was worth it. If you want calm and mindfulness this is a trip you should most definitely do. The hill itself is unique and early in the morning there was magic in the air and we were very lucky to have the space to ourselves. It is a unique tour but with Armands, it was very memorable.”

Further reading for the best day trips from Riga

Heading to Estonia next?

• Photography Guide: 15 Best Photo Spots in Tallinn, Estonia
• 10 Best Day Trips from Tallinn, Estonia + Top Rated Tours
• Complete Tallinn Itinerary: How to Spend 2 days in Tallinn
• How to Plan a Day Trip to Helsinki from Tallinn via Ferry
• 40 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Tallinn, Estonia

Or read more about: Riga | Latvia | Baltics

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best trips from Riga and I am sure that you are impatient to explore the Baltics beyond Riga. Whether it means visiting other famous cities in Latvia, exploring the natural wonders of Latvia, or even crossing the borders and visiting other 2 neighboring countries.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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