The spring months of April and May provide the best bird-watching opportunities, as a variety of avian species flock to the coastline of the Baltic Sea. However, when it comes to the weather, a visit to Latvia is best carried out between June to August, when you can enjoy its beaches. The colors of fall are spectacular in Gauja National Park, although the days start to get shorter at this time of year. For winter wonderland scenery, plan your vacation between November and February.

It is possible to take in the celebrated architecture of Riga as well as a day trip to destinations such as Rundale Palace (often referred to as Latvia’s Versailles) in just three days. If you have five days to spend, add quaint towns such as Cesis and the beach at Liepaja to your bucket list. Both these destinations are within easy reach of Riga.

But to get the most from Latvia, we recommend itineraries that last anywhere from one week to ten days. This gives you the opportunity to explore the nooks and crannies of this country and provides you with a wholesome travel experience. If you find time, head out to explore Slitere National Park, which was closed off to outsiders until the Russian forces left the country.

Riga is an absolute must for any traveler heading for Latvia, with a history dating back more than 800 years. The country’s natural splendor is encapsulated by Ventspils, whose glorious beach runs into a charming fishing village and a port. Hiking in the forests around Sigulda (also called ‘the Switzerland of Latvia’) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, while journeys to the country should also include a stop in Kuldiga, home to Venta, Europe’s widest waterfall.