If it’s a less tourist-trodden European country you crave, one of your best bets is Latvia. Although it is popping up on more and more must-visit lists, Latvia remains somewhat of a hidden travel gem that is well worth discovering.
Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea in the north of Europe, Latvia offers a wide range of attractions from historical and cultural sites, to beaches, shopping and outdoor recreation. 45 percent of the region is covered in natural forest, making Latvia an ideal place for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are 21 nature parks and one biosphere reserve for you to enjoy or if you’d prefer to relax on the beach, you can do so on one of the longest beaches in all of Europe (found in Jurmala).
Latvia’s capital city of Riga has a contemporary feel, but is packed full with history giving it an intriguing mix of old and new. Riga boasts diverse architecture and was named a World Heritage Site because of its collection of art nouveau buildings. You can find museums here, as well as galleries, great shopping, good food and plenty of opportunity for seeing the sights on foot.
The smaller towns of Latvia are also well worth exploring to enjoy cute cafes and bars, medieval castles, cosy spots to stay, historical buildings and beautiful scenery.
No matter what you’re interested in, or who you’re travelling with, it will be easy to find something to fall in love with in Latvia – and these photos prove it.
Lead photo: Graham
