Latvia Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Riga
- Currency
- Euro (EUR €)
- Best time to visit
- June to August offers warm weather, beaches, and festivals, while the snowy December holiday season is atmospheric in Riga.
Visa requirements
An EU and Schengen member, Latvia permits visa-free entry for many nationalities including US, UK, Canadian and Australian travelers for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Getting around
Intercity buses and some trains link towns, while Riga has trams, trolleybuses, and ride-hailing apps for easy urban travel.
Safety
Latvia is safe with low crime, though pickpocketing and overpriced bar scams occur in Riga's Old Town nightlife. Stick to reputable venues and watch your belongings in crowds.
Tipping customs
Tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary for good service, and rounding up is common elsewhere.
Travel tips
Cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but keep small cash for markets. Riga's compact center is best explored on foot, and the Central Market is a must for local flavors. Buses generally beat trains for intercity travel in coverage and frequency.