Ventspils

Latvia, Europe

Ventspils, a charming coastal city in Latvia, is celebrated for its pristine beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and well-preserved historical sites. Visitors can explore the stunning beach promenade, enjoy water sports, or unwind at the family-friendly Ventspils Seaside Park. The highlight is the beautifully restored Castle of the Livonian Order, along with colorful street art and annual festivals that energize the city. Perfect for a mix of relaxation and exploration, Ventspils offers a picturesque escape along the Baltic coast.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Visby

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

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

10 Best Things to Do in Ventspils

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Ventspils Beach

Relax on sandy shores and enjoy seaside activities.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ventspils Castle

Discover history in this medieval fortress museum.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Ventspils Seaside Park

Enjoy scenic pathways, gardens, and a vibrant atmosphere.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the Ventspils Water Park

Experience thrilling water slides and relaxation areas.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ventspils Renaissance Market

Shop for local crafts and taste traditional foods.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the Ventspils Open-Air Museum

Explore traditional Latvian rural life and architecture.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Ventspils Lighthouse

Climb for stunning views of the Baltic Sea.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Ventspils Promenade

Take in stunning sea views and enjoy local cafes.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Ventspils Music Festival

Experience vibrant performances in a beautiful setting.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Ventspils Street Art

Explore colorful murals throughout the city.

No 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)