Latvia | Europe

Latvia is located in Northern Europe on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, bordering Estonia to the north, Russia to the east, Belarus to the southeast, and Lithuania to the south. The country's geography is characterized by low-lying plains, extensive forests covering 54% of the land, and a 494 km coastline featuring white sandy beaches; the capital city is Riga.

Visa & Entry Policy

Latvia is a member of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the US, UK, and EU do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Effective late 2026, non-EU visa-exempt travelers must obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization prior to arrival. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date.

Language & Communication

The official language is Latvian, a Baltic language. English proficiency is high in Riga and among the younger population. Russian is widely spoken as a second language, particularly by the older generation and in eastern regions like Daugavpils. Communication is typically formal, reserved, and values punctuality.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the Euro (EUR). Card payments and contactless "tap-to-pay" are universal in cities, supermarkets, and restaurants. Cash remains necessary for small transactions at local markets (e.g., Riga Central Market), some small cafes in rural areas, and public restrooms. ATMs are widely available across all urban centers.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is facilitated by a robust network of buses operated by companies like Galss Buss and Nordeka. The rail network, managed by Pasažieru Vilciens (Vivi), primarily radiates from Riga to coastal and regional hubs like Jūrmala, Jelgava, and Sigulda. There are no domestic flights due to the country's compact size. RIX Riga State Airport serves as the primary international gateway.

Digital Infrastructure

Primary mobile network providers are LMT, Tele2, and Bite. 5G coverage is widespread in Riga and major towns as of 2026. Latvia consistently ranks among the top countries globally for internet speeds, with high-speed fiber-optic broadband available in most residential areas. Free public Wi-Fi is common in parks, libraries, and cafes.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is temperate maritime. Summers (June–August) are mild with average highs of 20°C–25°C and extended daylight. Winters (December–March) are cold and snowy, with temperatures frequently dropping below zero. The "Solar Winter"-the period with less than nine hours of daylight-lasts from early November to early February.

Health & Safety

No mandatory vaccinations are required. Tap water is safe for consumption in urban areas. Tick-borne encephalitis is a significant risk in forests and parks; vaccination is recommended for outdoor activities. The universal emergency number is 112 for Police, Fire, and Rescue; the specific line for Emergency Medical Service is 113.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Riga & Pieriga: Primary hub is Riga (Art Nouveau architecture, UNESCO site).

Vidzeme: Primary hub is Sigulda (Gateway to Gauja National Park).

Kurzeme: Primary hub is Liepāja (Coastal city of music and wind).

Local Cost Index

1L Water: €0.80 ($0.88 USD)

1 Domestic Beer: €4.00 ($4.40 USD)

1 Sim Card (Prepaid Data): €10.00 ($11.00 USD)

Facts & Legends

Riga contains the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture in the world, with over 800 buildings in this style. According to local legend, the "Rose of Turaida" (Maija Grebe) was a beautiful woman in 1620 who chose death over dishonor at the Turaida Castle, becoming a symbol of eternal love. Folklore also dictates that one must never finish all the grey peas on a plate during New Year's Eve, as each uneaten pea represents a tear that will not be shed in the coming year.