Latvia
Northern Europe • LVA
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Latvia is a charming Baltic gem known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, deep-rooted folklore traditions, and expansive, pristine forests. Visitors can enjoy a mix of vibrant urban culture in Riga and peaceful, nature-filled retreats in its coastal towns and national parks.
Visa Requirements
Latvia is part of the Schengen Area, allowing citizens of countries like the US, Canada, and Australia to visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure from the Schengen area
- Proof of travel health insurance
- Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay
- Proof of accommodation for the planned trip
Popular Attractions
Riga Old Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its colorful medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks like St. Peter's Church.
Gauja National Park: Often called the Switzerland of Latvia, this park offers picturesque valleys, medieval castles, and excellent opportunities for hiking and canoeing.
Jurmala: A popular seaside resort town renowned for its long sandy beaches, wooden villas, and rejuvenating spa hotels.
Rundale Palace: This exquisite 18th-century Baroque palace features opulent interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens modeled after Versailles.
Liepaja: Known as the city where the wind is born, this coastal hub offers a unique mix of military history, sandy beaches, and a thriving music scene.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Latvians tend to be reserved and private in public spaces, so maintaining a quiet demeanor is appreciated.
Bringing flowers as a gift when visiting a private home is standard, but always ensure the bouquet consists of an odd number of flowers.
It is common practice to remove your shoes immediately upon entering someone's home.
Punctuality is highly valued in both professional and social settings in Latvia.
When toasting, it is customary to maintain eye contact with the person you are clinking glasses with.
Singing and choral music are deeply ingrained in Latvian culture, and taking an interest in local folk music is considered respectful.
Safety Tips
Latvia is generally very safe, but remain vigilant against pickpockets in crowded tourist areas of Riga.
Only use registered taxi companies or reputable ride-sharing apps to avoid being overcharged by independent drivers.
Be cautious when walking on cobblestone streets in the Old Town, as they can be slippery, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Keep your belongings secure at all times, particularly in busy transport hubs like the central train and bus stations.
When visiting natural areas, stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or disturbing protected wildlife.
Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 from any phone.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Core Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza, Varicella)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Check with your doctor.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceInsect repellent use
Source: CDC
To prevent insect bites which could lead to disease transmission.
View sourceSeasonal influenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Year-round vaccination is recommended, particularly before winter travel to prevent seasonal flu.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to Latvia due to potential exposure through food or water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers regardless of destination, as these vaccines protect against common diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date for protection against these diseases.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is important for all travelers.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended to protect against COVID-19 while traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended if you have not had a Tdap booster in the last 10 years.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent insect bites to reduce risk of tick-borne and mosquito-borne diseases.
Use repellent, wear protective clothing, and perform regular tick checks.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Observe safe food and water practices to prevent diarrheal diseases.
Eat and drink only safe food and beverages.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to protect against tick-borne illnesses common in forested areas.
Perform tick checks after spending time outdoors.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses by consuming safe food and water.
Practice safe hygiene, drink treated or bottled water, and avoid undercooked foods.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 related illness during travel.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only cooked and served hot foods; drink bottled or boiled water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Consider for those who may consume street food or visit smaller cities.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who might eat or drink in areas with questionable sanitation.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Tick-borne encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who will be spending time in rural or forested areas where TBE is endemic.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceTick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending time outdoors in rural, forested, or grassy areas during warmer months.
Endemic disease in Baltic regions.
View sourceTravel insurance
Source: CDC
To cover any health emergencies that may arise during travel.
View sourceRoutine travel health precautions
Source: CDC
To ensure overall health and safety while traveling.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19 while traveling.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Insects may carry diseases; use insect repellent and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
View sourceTraveler's diarrhea precautions
Source: CDC
Advised to ensure food and water safety during travel.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking habits to avoid foodborne illnesses.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (such as flu)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Consider if planning to visit smaller cities or rural areas where food and water safety may be concerns.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to minimize the risk of infection.
View sourceSeasonal flu vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended, especially for those visiting during flu season or who are at higher risk.
View source