Latvia
Northern Europe • LVA
Last updated: September 13, 2026
Latvia is a charming Baltic nation known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, deep-rooted folklore traditions, and vast, pristine forests. It offers a perfect blend of historic European city life in Riga and tranquil natural beauty along its expansive coastline.
Visa Requirements
Latvia is part of the Schengen Area, allowing citizens from many countries to enter visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure
- Proof of travel insurance covering medical expenses
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Confirmed return or onward travel tickets
Popular Attractions
Old Town Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring winding cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved medieval buildings.
Gauja National Park offers breathtaking landscapes with river valleys, sandstone cliffs, and the historic Turaida Castle.
Jurmala is a popular seaside resort town famous for its long sandy beaches, wooden architecture, and relaxing spa culture.
The Rundale Palace is an opulent 18th-century baroque masterpiece often referred to as the Versailles of the Baltics.
Kuldiga is home to the widest waterfall in Europe, the Venta Rapid, and offers a picturesque atmosphere with its charming old town.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Latvians are generally reserved and value personal space, so avoid being overly loud or intrusive in public settings.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home, so look for a shoe rack or ask your host.
Always bring a small gift like flowers or chocolates if you are invited to a local home for dinner.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving around 5-10% in restaurants for good service is standard practice.
Punctuality is highly valued in Latvia, so try to arrive on time for both professional and social engagements.
Safety Tips
Latvia is generally very safe, but remain vigilant against pickpockets in crowded tourist areas of Riga.
Use only official taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps to avoid being overcharged by unofficial drivers.
Keep your passport or a digital copy of your identification in a secure place at all times.
Be cautious when walking on cobblestone streets in the winter, as they can become extremely slippery and icy.
In the event of an emergency, dial 112, which is the universal number for police, ambulance, and fire services.
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 to provide general immunity.
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
Prevent tick-borne or other insect-borne diseases common in temperate regions.
Use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and perform regular tick checks.
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
In order to avoid gastrointestinal diseases.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with new partners, get a tattoo or piercing, or have medical procedures.
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 may be exposed through food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Rabies
Source: CDC
Consider if you will be 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