Jurmala, a picturesque seaside resort town in Latvia, is famous for its long sandy beaches, wooden architecture, and serene natural beauty. For those pondering things to do in Jurmala, strolling along the expansive Jomas Street, lined with cafes and shops, and relaxing on the golden sands of Majori Beach are essential experiences.
The town’s Dzintari Forest Park, with its walking trails and observation tower, offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The Jurmala City Museum, showcasing the history and cultural heritage of the town, provides insights into its development as a popular resort destination.
Beyond its beach and cultural attractions, Jurmala is celebrated for its wellness and spa facilities, leveraging the therapeutic properties of its natural surroundings. For those exploring the best places to visit in Latvia, Jurmala’s blend of coastal charm, historical architecture, and relaxing atmosphere makes it a delightful and rejuvenating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Jurmala, Latvia
1. Jomas Street
Jomas Street is the main promenade in Jurmala, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s a bustling pedestrian street perfect for leisurely walks, dining, and shopping.
Location: Central Jūrmala, running parallel to the coastline. Easily accessible from Majori Station.
Scenic Spot: A lively pedestrian promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, and historic wooden architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for the most vibrant atmosphere and open-air dining.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit; dining and shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Try some of the local seafood dishes or traditional Latvian cuisine at one of the street’s many eateries.
2. Dzintari Forest Park
Dzintari Forest Park is a beautiful, expansive area ideal for nature lovers. It offers a variety of walking paths, playgrounds for children, and an observation tower with stunning views.
Location: Dzintari area, Jūrmala. Easily accessible from Dzintari Station.
Scenic Spot: A tranquil forest park with walking trails, an observation tower, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn (April-October) for the best outdoor experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for nature lovers, families, and fitness enthusiasts.
Price: Free to enter.
Travel Tip: Climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding forest and the Gulf of Riga.
3. Jurmala Beach
Jurmala Beach, known for its soft white sand and shallow waters, stretches along the coast for miles. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
Location: Stretching along the Gulf of Riga, easily accessible from various points in Jūrmala.
Scenic Spot: A long sandy beach with shallow, calm waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for warm weather and beach activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with shallow waters ideal for children and plenty of space for relaxation.
Price: Free to access.
Travel Tip: Visit during the summer for the full beach experience, but it’s also beautiful and more peaceful during the off-season.
4. Kemeri National Park
Kemeri National Park, a short drive from Jurmala, is known for its unique wetlands, natural sulfur springs, and diverse birdlife.
Location: About 25 km west of Jūrmala, accessible by car or train from Majori Station.
Scenic Spot: Vast wetlands, natural sulfur springs, and the famous Great Ķemeri Bog Boardwalk.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October) for birdwatching and pleasant weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Explore the park’s boardwalks that take you through the boglands, and don’t miss the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk for its stunning landscapes.
5. Livu Aquapark
Livu Aquapark is one of the largest water parks in Northern Europe, offering a variety of slides, pools, and attractions for all ages.
Location: Viestura iela 24, Jūrmala, near Lielupe Station.
Scenic Spot: One of the largest water parks in Northern Europe, featuring slides, pools, saunas, and a lazy river.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round; summer for outdoor attractions, winter for indoor fun.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with areas designed for children, families, and adults.
Price: €25-€40 per person, depending on age and visit duration.
Travel Tip: This is a perfect destination for families, especially if you’re traveling with children.
6. Jurmala City Museum
The Jurmala City Museum provides insights into the history and cultural heritage of Jurmala and the surrounding region, including its development as a popular resort destination.
Location: Tirgoņu iela 29, Majori, Jūrmala.
Scenic Spot: Exhibits about Jūrmala’s history, culture, and development as a seaside resort town.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round; weekdays for fewer visitors.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but most interesting for history and culture enthusiasts.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The museum is small but informative, making it a nice addition to a day of exploring Jurmala.
7. Dubulti Art Station
Dubulti Art Station, a functioning railway station, doubles as an art exhibition space. It’s an interesting example of Soviet modernist architecture and often hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
Location: Inside Dubulti Railway Station, Jūrmala.
Scenic Spot: A unique art gallery inside a functioning Soviet-era train station, featuring contemporary exhibitions.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round; check the exhibition schedule in advance.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though younger children may find it less engaging.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Check the exhibition schedule in advance, as it changes regularly.
8. Dzintari Concert Hall
The Dzintari Concert Hall is a renowned venue for music and cultural events, set in a beautiful forested area near the beach.
Location: Turaidas iela 1, Dzintari, Jūrmala.
Scenic Spot: A historic open-air concert venue hosting classical, jazz, and pop performances.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for outdoor concerts and festivals.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may not enjoy all performances.
Price: €10-€50, depending on the event.
Travel Tip: Try to catch a concert or performance here, especially during the summer, when the hall hosts a range of international artists and events.
9. Former Swimming Establishment of E. Rācene
This historical building, once a popular swimming establishment, is an architectural landmark in Jurmala. It reflects the art nouveau style and the resort’s history as a spa destination.
Location: Majori Beach, Jūrmala.
Scenic Spot: A beautifully restored Art Nouveau building, once a historic spa and bathhouse.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round for architectural photography; summer for beach views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the building is not open for public entry.
Price: Free to admire from the outside.
Travel Tip: While the building is currently not open to the public, it’s worth viewing from the outside and taking a few photos.
10. Jurmala Open-Air Museum
The Jurmala Open-Air Museum showcases traditional Latvian fishing village life. It includes historic fishing boats, nets, and other artifacts.
Location: Tīklu iela 1a, Jūrmala, near Lielupe River.
Scenic Spot: A cultural site showcasing traditional Latvian fishing village life with historic boats, tools, and buildings.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for live demonstrations and cultural events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for families and history enthusiasts.
Price: €2-€3 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Visit during one of the museum’s special event days, which often feature demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques and other cultural activities.
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Jūrmala, Latvia: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Jūrmala: 9/10 – Jūrmala is an excellent destination for families, offering long sandy beaches perfect for children. The city features multiple parks and playgrounds, including Dzintari Forest Park with its adventure park, play areas, and observation tower. The Livu Aqua Park is another popular attraction for families, providing hours of fun for kids of all ages.
Nightlife in Jūrmala: 6/10 – Nightlife in Jūrmala is relatively calm, focusing on beach bars and relaxed evening entertainment. There are a few clubs and bars, especially active during the summer season, but for a more vibrant nightlife scene, visitors often travel to nearby Riga.
Sport in Jūrmala: 8/10 – Jūrmala offers a wide range of sports activities, particularly water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing. The beaches are ideal for beach volleyball and football. Additionally, there are facilities for tennis, cycling paths, and numerous options for jogging along the coast.
Culture and Attractions in Jūrmala: 7/10 – Jūrmala has a rich cultural scene with attractions like the Jūrmala City Museum, the Open-Air Museum, and the Dzintari Concert Hall, which hosts various performances. The unique wooden architecture and art nouveau buildings add to the city’s charm. Cultural events and festivals are common, especially in the summer.
Gastronomy in Jūrmala: 8/10 – Jūrmala offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants and cafes along Jomas Street and the beachfront. Visitors can enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes. The dining experience is enhanced by the scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
Shopping in Jūrmala: 6/10 – Shopping in Jūrmala includes local boutiques, souvenir shops, and small markets. While it may not have large shopping centers, the quaint shops offer unique items, including local crafts and beachwear. For more extensive shopping, Riga is a short drive away.
Prices in Jūrmala: 7/10 – Prices in Jūrmala are moderate, with a range of options for accommodation and dining to suit different budgets.
Average price for a hotel night: 100 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15 €
Price of a beer: 3 €
Price of a coffee: 2 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Jurmala, Latvia
For those keen to venture beyond Jurmala’s famed beach resorts and spa treatments, top day trips near Jurmala offer a chance to immerse in Latvia’s natural and architectural beauty. The historic charm of Riga and the tranquil landscapes of the Kemeri National Park are just a short journey away, providing diverse experiences from cultural exploration to nature retreats.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Jurmala accommodations offer a blend of luxury and tranquility, from lavish spa resorts nestled in the forest to charming beachside hotels, ensuring every stay is as relaxing as it is enriching.
FAQ About Things to Do in Jurmala, Latvia
What are the main attractions in Jurmala?
Jurmala is famous for its beautiful beaches, Dzintari Forest Park, Jurmala City Museum, and the wooden architecture of its houses, especially on Jomas Street.
Can I enjoy beach activities in Jurmala?
Yes, Jurmala is renowned for its long, sandy beaches like Majori and Dzintari, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying various beach sports.
Are there any nature trails or parks in Jurmala?
Dzintari Forest Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, offering walking paths, a watchtower with panoramic views, and playgrounds for children.
What cultural experiences can I find in Jurmala?
Explore the Jurmala City Museum for local history, and don’t miss the open-air concerts at Dzintari Concert Hall, showcasing both local and international talent.
Is there any wellness or spa experience in Jurmala?
Jurmala is famous for its spa and wellness centers, offering a variety of treatments, including traditional mud baths and modern therapies.
Can I explore Jurmala’s architecture?
Absolutely! The town is known for its charming wooden houses and art nouveau architecture, particularly evident along Jomas Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare.
What local foods should I try in Jurmala?
In Jurmala, try Latvian specialties like Rye bread, Smoked fish, and Piragi (bacon-filled rolls). The local restaurants along Jomas Street offer a great taste of these traditional dishes.
Are there any shopping areas in Jurmala?
Jomas Street is the main shopping area in Jurmala, where you can find a variety of shops selling local crafts, amber jewelry, and souvenirs.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C5%ABrmala
https://www.getyourguide.com/jurmala-l2777/
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