Sigulda

Latvia, Europe

Sigulda, often dubbed the 'Switzerland of Latvia', is renowned for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and adventure sports. Nestled in the picturesque Gauja National Park, visitors can explore the ancient Turaida Castle, the dramatic cliffs of the Gauja River, and indulge in activities like bobsledding, hiking, and hot air ballooning. It's a perfect blend of history and outdoor fun, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Tallinn

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Sigulda

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Sigulda Castle

Visit the stunning medieval castle with panoramic views.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go bobsledding

Experience an adrenaline rush on a real bobsled track.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in Gauja National Park

Discover breathtaking nature trails and rich biodiversity.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Turaida Museum Reserve

Explore the historic site and its beautiful gardens.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Ride the cable car

Enjoy breathtaking views over the Gauja River.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Gutmanis Cave

Discover Latvia's largest cave with fascinating legends.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Sigulda Medieval Festival

Experience traditional crafts, music, and medieval performances.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Krimulda Manor

Visit the romantic ruins and stunning park area.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Try Latvian cuisine at local restaurants

Savor traditional dishes and local flavors in Sigulda.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bike along the Gauja River

Enjoy a scenic ride through picturesque landscapes.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Winter sports in Sigulda

Engage in skiing and snowboarding during winter.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Sigulda Opera Festival

Experience stunning opera performances in a beautiful setting.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-1 (#58 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Latvian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pelēkie Zirņi Ar Speķi

Gray peas with bacon, a hearty dish. (National dish)

Rupjmaize

VE

Rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine.

Sklandrausis

V

Sweet rye pastry with carrot filling.

Piragi

Savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables.

Aukstā Zupa

VE

Cold beet soup, refreshing and colorful.

Phrases to learn

English

Latvian

Hello

Sveiki

(Sveh-kee)

Yes/No

Ja / Ne

(Yah / Neh)

Thank you

Paldies

(Pahl-dyehs)

Excuse me

Atvainojiet

(Aht-vai-noh-yeht)

How much?

Cik maksā?

(Tseek mak-sah)