Top 10 Things Latvia Is Famous For - Updated 2024

1. Art Nouveau architecture (from USD 70.45)

Latvia’s capital city, Riga, is a haven for art enthusiasts. Everywhere you look, you will see grand buildings and other structures that don romantic Art Nouveau architecture. This form of architecture is characterized by elaborate details of the human body, flowers, and pillars. Walking tours are available in the Art Nouveau district where tourists get a chance to be up close and personal with these amazing man-made wonders. Aside from sight-seeing, information about the long and winding history of how the charming district rose is shared with the tourists. One of the most admired spots in Riga is Alberta Street and Blaumaņa 28.

Walking Tour of Riga's Beautiful Art Nouveau Architecture

Duration: 2.0 hour

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2. Ice hockey

Latvians love ice hockey. In fact, it is the country’s most popular sport. In the 1930s, the first official ice hockey game happened. Afterward, the country’s best players were brought together to form the first-ever national team which participated in the European championship. In the following years, the team participated in more matches such as the World Cup in Prague and the Winter Olympics. Even if the old players were replaced with the new ones, the people’s interest in ice hockey never wavered. More and more people, even non-Latvian citizens, support the country’s team. Because of the sport’s popularity, even the women formed their own hockey teams.

3. Soviet Secret Bunker

To protect the leaders of Latvia, the nation prepared for a possible nuclear attack during the Cold War. So, they made this bunker located 9 meters (30 feet) under the ground. Military soldiers who stay inside the bunker can survive for months as it was filled with the basic necessities for human survival. It was kept as a secret for such a long time that even its adjacent buildings were not aware of its existence. Presently, Soviet Secret Bunker displays its original interiors to the public. Over the years, the rooms, furniture, fixtures, and equipment were kept in top shape so visitors can really experience how it would have been like to stay inside the bunker.

Soviet Secret Bunker

Address: Skaļupes, Līgatne, Līgatnes nov, LV-4108, Latvia

Website: Soviet Secret Bunker

4. Riga’s Central Market (from USD 63.58)

Art and food collide at Riga Central Market. What were once Zeppelin hangars has been transformed into a bustling food market with Art Deco and Neoclassical styling. A wide variety of food choices are sold here. With items such as dairy products, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meat, and different kinds of beverages, one’s cravings will surely be satisfied here. Exotic food and other home-made goodies can also be bought here. Plus, buyers will get to hear stories from local vendors on what life is like as a citizen of Latvia. The market is centrally located, making it easy for a tourist to stop by from time to time.

Riga: Food Tasting Tour of Central Market

Duration: 2.0 hour

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5. Citric acid production from molasses

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Through microbiological biosynthesis, the process of producing citric acid as a by-product of sugar production was first developed by brilliant Latvian scientists in 1948. Using Aspergillus niger, they were able to extract citric acid from molasses. Citric acid is a vital ingredient in most food and beverage products and other non-food items such as cosmetics, shampoos, and conditioners. Because of this, the production of citric acid made a good impact on the economy of this Baltic country as the market extends to other nearby countries. Nowadays, more and more laboratories in Latvia are producing citric acid. Pure citric acid is available in small packets and can be bought easily.

6. Female models

Latvian women have been regarded as one of the tallest females in the world, which is why they look like models. A lot of Latvian female models are cast by famous agencies. These gorgeous women raised the Latvian flag for all the world to see through their beauty. Aside from showing off their beauty on the runway, the faces of these women are featured in popular magazine covers such as Vogue, Marie Claire, and Harper’s Bazaar. These models are also hired as ambassadors of international fashion brands such as Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent. Some of these famous ladies are Ginta Lapiņa, Ingūna Butāne, and Ieva Lagūna.

7. Latvia Rivers

Latvia is covered with bodies of water, and among these are more than 12,000 rivers. Boating is a popular activity in Gauja River. Gauja River is the longest river in Latvia and the only one that starts and ends within the country. Those who are not fond of boating can appreciate this majestic river from inside Gauja National Park. Another noteworthy river is Abava River. On its riverbanks, you will find forests, caves, beautiful villages, and Abava Valley. Abava Rumba, a waterfall from Abava River, is a popular swimming destination among tourists. Sometimes, people visit here just because they find the sound of water relaxing.

8. Denim

Latvian-born Jacob W. Davis invented jeans. Born in Latvia where he was raised to be a tailor, Davis soon migrated to the United States and had different jobs before he went back to tailoring. When he restarted his tailoring journey, he produced non-clothing items such as tents and used denim fabrics to make them. He bought these fabrics at Levi Strauss and Co. Then, he approached Levi Strauss himself and asked for help in registering a patent for his invention because he cannot afford it himself. A client approached Davis and asked for a sturdy pair of pants. By using a tough cloth and copper rivets, this became the birth of denim jeans. Davis started embroidering the back pocket with an orange stitch in 1973 to stand out from competitors. To this day, the trademark is still recognizable worldwide.

9. Forests

Enchanting forests cover most of Latvia’s land, and most of the trees that grow are coniferous trees. Diverse flora and fauna thrive in these woodlands. A lot of nature-loving visitors come to Latvia just to experience the relaxing effect of being in the forest and to observe the plants and animals that are in it. Aside from hiking and birdwatching, foraging for mushrooms, berries, and tea leaves are some of the other things tourists can enjoy within the forests. The Latvian government has policies in place to protect their lush forests, which is why Latvia holds the crown for being one of the greenest countries in the world.

10. Internet connectivity

Everywhere you go, there is always a need for a stable and fast internet connection. To address this, public areas in Latvia such as parks, transportation terminals, community libraries, and shopping centers offer free wifi access for everyone. The hotels, whether located in the capital city of Riga or in the suburbs, also provide wireless internet access to its guests. This widespread free access to high-speed internet caused the ceasing of operations of several internet cafes. This was initiated by Latvia’s leading electronics communications service provider, Lattelecom. The government is currently implementing projects for the betterment of internet connectivity in rural areas.

Be amazed by the alluring Latvia

There are a lot of reasons why Latvia is getting more popular with vacationers these days. Shaped by history and strengthened by the citizen’s love of their country, this nation has made its mark on the map. Nature, art, and sports lovers are sure to find something to entertain them here. Filled with relaxation, fun, and adventure, Latvia is a must-visit.