Jelgava - Discovering Latvia

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
Travel and respect, explore and smile, be curious and kind. Have wild trips!

Travelling to Jelgava

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jelgava, a pretty good destination in Latvia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Jelgava and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Jelgava, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Latvia, here's everything to know about Jelgava for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jelgava

Jelgava is a city in central Latvia, located about 41 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Riga. It is the fourth-largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 60,000 people. Jelgava is known for its historic landmarks, including the Jelgava Palace, which was once the home of the Dukes of Courland and Semigallia, and the iconic Holy Trinity Church. It is also home to Latvia's largest university, the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Jelgava City Festival and the Strawberry Festival. Jelgava has good transport links, with easy access to major roads and rail connections to Riga and other nearby cities.

Travelling
Travelling to Jelgava and around: discovering Latvia

What to visit in Jelgava

Jelgava, located in central Latvia, has several tourist attractions worth visiting. Here are some of them: 1. Jelgava Palace - The palace was built in the 18th century and served as a residence for the Dukes of Courland. It is now the largest Baroque-style palace in the Baltic States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, see its impressive collection of artwork, and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
2. Duke Jacob's Square - This is the main square in Jelgava and is home to several historic buildings, including the Trinity Church, the Jelgava History and Art Museum, and the newly renovated Town Hall.
3. Jelgava Holy Trinity Lutheran Church - This church is one of the oldest buildings in Jelgava, dating back to the 17th century. Its interior features beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows.
4. Pasta Island - This is a popular recreational spot in Jelgava. Located in the middle of the Lielupe River, it features a beach, walking trails, and a playground.
5. Jelgava Local History and Art Museum - The museum is housed in a 19th-century building and features exhibits on the history of Jelgava as well as a collection of Latvian folk art.
6. Ozolnieki Crafts Centre - Located just outside Jelgava, this centre offers workshops on traditional Latvian crafts such as woodworking, pottery, and weaving.
7. Lielupe Floodplain Forest - This forest is home to a variety of wildlife and hiking trails. It's a great place to explore nature and escape the city.
Overall, Jelgava offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions, making it a great destination for travellers looking to experience Latvian history and nature.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Latvia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Jelgava.

When to go on holiday to Jelgava

The best time to visit Jelgava in Latvia would be during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warmer and most of the outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking and exploring the city's parks, can be enjoyed to the fullest. During these months, you can also enjoy various events and festivals that take place in Jelgava. However, if you're looking to avoid crowds and peak season prices, you may also consider going in the shoulder season months of May or September when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner. Just be aware that the weather can be more unpredictable during these months, with occasional rains and colder temperatures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Jelgava

There are several ways to get to Jelgava, Latvia: 1. By car: If you are driving to Jelgava, the city is located about 40km south-west of Riga, and the journey takes around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
2. By train: Jelgava has good train connections with Riga and other cities in Latvia. Trains depart from Riga Central Station several times per day, and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
3. By bus: Bus services to Jelgava are operated by several companies such as Ecolines, Lux Express, and others. Buses depart from Riga Central Bus Station and other locations in the city. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
4. By taxi: Taxis are easily available in Riga and other cities in Latvia. A taxi from Riga to Jelgava costs around 25-30 EUR.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Jelgava!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jelgava, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jelgava

Here are some typical foods from Jelgava, Latvia: 1. Jelgavas kūkas - These are small, round cakes made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. They are often served with coffee or tea.
2. Zemnieku salāti – A traditional salad made with boiled potatoes, pickles, onions, and mayonnaise. Often served as a side dish.
3. Sukādes kartupeļi - Candied potatoes made with boiled potatoes, sugar, and water. They are similar to sweet potato casserole and often eaten as a dessert or side dish.
4. Silke – A type of smoked herring that is typically served with boiled potatoes. 5. Rupjmaize - A dark, dense bread made from rye flour. It is a staple food in Latvia and often served with butter. 6. Skābeņu zupa - A soup made from fermented milk, flour, and potatoes. It has a tangy flavor and is often served cold in the summer.
7. Kotletes - Latvian-style meatballs made with ground meat, onions, and bread crumbs. They are usually served with mashed potatoes or boiled vegetables.
8. Rīgu sieri - A type of cheese made in the Riga region. It has a mild, slightly salty flavor and is often used in traditional Latvian dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Latvia here.

Is Jelgava an expensive destination for tourists?

Jelgava is generally an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to other European cities. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs in Jelgava are relatively low, which makes it an attractive and affordable destination for budget-conscious travelers. However, the prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation, restaurant, or attraction you choose to visit. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning your trip to Jelgava.

Where to find accomodation in Jelgava

Jelgava is a relatively small city, so there are a few areas where you can find good accommodation options to stay in while visiting. One of the most convenient areas is the city center, where you'll find a variety of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses within walking distance of most of the top tourist attractions. Another popular area to stay is near the Jelgava Palace and Park, which offers a unique and picturesque setting. Additionally, if you're traveling by car, there are several hotels located along the major roads leading into and out of the city. Overall, any of these areas are great options for finding accommodation when visiting Jelgava.
You can check hotel prices at Jelgava here:
Booking.com


Is Jelgava a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Jelgava is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should always take caution and follow common safety measures, such as staying aware of their surroundings, avoiding dimly lit areas at night, and securing their valuables. It's always advisable to research and understand local laws and customs before traveling to any new destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Latvia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Jelgava.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jelgava the most?

Jelgava is a great destination for families and couples who enjoy history and exploring cultural attractions. It is also a good spot for visitors who are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports. While there are some local bars and restaurants to enjoy, it may not be the best choice for younger travelers who are looking for a more lively nightlife scene. Ultimately, Jelgava can be a great spot for anyone looking to experience a relaxed atmosphere and immerse themselves in the history and culture of Latvia.

How to get around Jelgava

In Jelgava, you can move around the city by using public transportation such as buses and minibusses operated by Jelgavas autobusu parks (JAP). Additionally, there are several taxi companies that provide services in the city. You can also rent a bike or a car to explore the city on your own.

What to see around Jelgava

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Jelgava, Latvia: 1. Rundale Palace - A magnificent 18th-century palace with stunning baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.
2. Mezotne Palace - A historic palace with a lovely park and breathtaking views of the river.
3. Dobele Castle - A medieval castle with a museum showcasing the history of the region.
4. Bauska Castle - A picturesque castle situated on the banks of the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers.
5. Kuldiga - A charming town with scenic waterfalls, historic buildings and a charming old town.
6. Jurmala - A popular seaside resort town known for its long sandy beaches and spa culture.
7. Sigulda - A scenic town surrounded by beautiful forests and home to the Turaida Castle and Gutmanis Cave.
8. Cesis - A charming town with a medieval castle, a pretty old town and the beautiful Gauja National Park nearby.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Latvia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.

Contact info@wildtrips.net for any queries on a travel itinerary, advices about a trip report or to organize sailing holidays in Italy.
Site Map - Privacy