After savoring all the things to do in Jurmala, from its serene beaches to the architectural elegance of its wooden summer houses, day trips from Jurmala present a delightful opportunity to discover more of Latvia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. These excursions lead you to enchanting forests, historic towns, and serene lakes, offering a broader perspective on the Latvian landscape.
Venturing beyond Jurmala, you encounter the diverse offerings of Latvia, from the vibrant streets of Riga with its Art Nouveau architecture to the tranquil Gauja National Park. Each destination unveils a piece of Latvia’s rich history and the lush, natural beauty that characterizes the country.
Deciding where to stay in Jurmala can significantly enhance your exploration of both the town’s tranquil beaches and the surrounding attractions. A well-chosen accommodation provides the perfect retreat after a day of adventure, combining the comfort of luxury with the charm of Latvian hospitality.
Discover Best Day Trips from Jurmala, Latvia
1. Riga, Latvia
Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and a well-preserved Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic center, visit the Riga Central Market, and enjoy the city’s lively cafes and bars.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by car or train
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Art Nouveau architecture, Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Riga Central Market
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- House of the Blackheads: €6
- Riga Central Market: Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bastejkalna Park, Riga Cathedral, Town Hall Square
Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the House of the Blackheads and take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Bastejkalna Park.
2. Sigulda, Latvia
Sigulda, often called the ‘Switzerland of Latvia,’ is known for its castles, scenic landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities like bungee jumping and hiking. Visit the Sigulda Castle, Turaida Museum Reserve, and the Gūtmaņala Grotto.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sigulda Castle, Turaida Museum Reserve, Gūtmaņala Grotto
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Turaida Museum Reserve: €5
- Sigulda Castle: €3
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gauja River Valley, Sigulda Cable Car, Krimulda Manor
Travel Tip: Try the cable car ride across the Gauja River Valley for spectacular views, especially in autumn.
3. Cesis, Latvia
Cesis is a charming historical town with a medieval castle, ancient streets, and a rich cultural scene. The Cesis Medieval Castle and St. John’s Church are notable highlights.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cesis Medieval Castle, St. John’s Church, Cesis Old Town
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cesis Medieval Castle: €4
- St. John’s Church: €2
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle Park, Riekstu Hill, Cesis Old Town Streets
Travel Tip: Participate in a candle-lit tour of the Cesis Medieval Castle for a unique and atmospheric experience.
4. Jūrmala, Latvia
Jūrmala itself, while a destination on its own, offers a series of smaller local trips within the area. Enjoy its long sandy beaches, wooden summer houses, and the Jomas Street for dining and shopping.
Distance: Within Jūrmala
Travel Time: 5-30 minutes by car, depending on location
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Long sandy beaches, wooden summer houses, Jomas Street for dining and shopping
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Dzintari Forest Park: Free
Budget: Approximately €10-€30 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Jomas Street, Majori Beach, Dzintari Forest Park
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Dzintari Forest Park for a leisurely walk or a fun time at its playground and observation tower.
5. Kuldīga, Latvia
Kuldīga is famous for its picturesque old town and the Venta Rapid, the widest waterfall in Europe. The town’s charming streets and historic buildings make for a delightful day trip.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Old Town of Kuldīga, Venta Rapid (widest waterfall in Europe)
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Kuldīga Museum: €3
- Kuldīga Castle Ruins: Free
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Venta Rapid, Kuldīga Old Town Streets
Travel Tip: Visit in spring to witness fish jumping up the Venta Rapid, a unique natural phenomenon.
6. Tukums, Latvia
Tukums is a small town offering a blend of historical and natural attractions. Highlights include the Durbe Manor and Tukums Museum, as well as the nearby Ķemeri National Park.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Durbe Manor, Tukums Museum, Ķemeri National Park
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Durbe Manor: €4
- Ķemeri National Park: Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ķemeri Great Bog Boardwalk, Durbe Manor Gardens
Travel Tip: Explore the Ķemeri National Park, particularly its Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk, for a beautiful nature walk.
7. Bauska, Latvia
Bauska, known for its rich history, is home to the Bauska Castle, which offers stunning views of the confluence of two rivers. The nearby Rundāle Palace, an 18th-century baroque masterpiece, is also worth visiting.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Bauska Castle, Rundāle Palace
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Bauska Castle: €5
- Rundāle Palace: €8
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rundāle Palace Gardens, Mūsa and Mēmele River Confluence
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the beautifully restored rooms and gardens of Rundāle Palace, often referred to as the Versailles of Latvia.
8. Liepāja, Latvia
Liepāja, located on Latvia’s west coast, is known for its music scene, beaches, and the unique Karosta district, a former secret military town. The city’s architecture and cultural life make it an interesting destination.
Distance: Approximately 220 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Karosta district, Liepāja Beach, Liepāja’s Music Scene
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Karosta Prison: €8
- Liepāja Museum: €3
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Liepāja Beach, Karosta District, Seaside Park
Travel Tip: Explore the Karosta Prison for a haunting historical experience, and relax at one of Liepāja’s beautiful beaches.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Jurmala, Latvia
What are the best day trips from Jūrmala?
Top day trips from Jūrmala include visiting the vibrant city of Riga, exploring the medieval town of Sigulda, enjoying nature at Ķemeri National Park, and discovering the historic town of Cēsis.
Is a visit to Riga recommended when staying in Jūrmala?
Absolutely! Riga, the capital of Latvia, is just a short trip away and offers a rich blend of historic architecture, modern amenities, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Can I explore Gauja National Park from Jūrmala?
Yes, Gauja National Park is accessible and offers stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and historical sites like Turaida Castle and the Gutmanis Cave.
Are there any beach destinations near Jūrmala for a day trip?
Besides Jūrmala’s own beautiful beaches, the nearby town of Liepāja offers a unique coastal experience with its sandy beaches and charming atmosphere.
What cultural experiences are available near Jūrmala?
Nearby Riga is a hub for cultural experiences, with its many museums, art galleries, and theaters. The Latvian Open-Air Museum, just outside Riga, is also a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Is a trip to the historic town of Kuldīga worth it?
Definitely! Kuldīga is known for its well-preserved architecture and the widest waterfall in Europe – Venta Rapid. It’s a picturesque town perfect for a leisurely day trip.
Can I take a boat tour from Jūrmala?
Yes, there are several boat tours available from Jūrmala, offering scenic views of the Baltic coast and the chance to explore the region’s unique marine environment.
Are there any spa resorts near Jūrmala for a relaxing day trip?
Jūrmala itself is renowned for its spa resorts, but for a change of scenery, the spa town of Bīriņi offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful castle and relaxing spa facilities.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/jurmala-l2777?activity_type=dayTrip
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