Liepaja - Discovering Latvia

Travelling to Liepaja

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Liepaja, 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 Liepaja 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 Liepaja, 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 Liepaja for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Liepaja

Liepaja is one of the largest cities in Latvia located on the western coast of the country, bordering the Baltic Sea. It has a population of around 70,000 inhabitants and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and cultural activities. Liepaja is a popular destination for summer vacations and boasts several museums, ecoparks, and entertainment venues. It has a rich musical heritage and is home to one of the oldest orchestra halls in the country. The city is easily accessible by bus or car, and the nearest airport is Riga International Airport, which is located about 200 kilometers away.

What to visit in Liepaja

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Liepaja, Latvia: 1. Karosta Prison: This former Tsarist military prison is now open for visitors to explore. You can take a guided tour of the cells and learn about the prison's grisly history.
2. Liepaja Beach: Liepaja is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and is a popular summertime destination. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
3. Saint Anne's Church: This beautiful 18th-century church is located in the heart of Liepaja's Old Town and is known for its stunning stained-glass windows.
4. Northern Forts: Explore the historic fortifications that were built during the 19th century to defend against Russian invasions. The northern forts can be accessed on foot or by bike.
5. Liepaja Museum: The Liepaja Museum tells the story of the city through its art, archaeology, and history exhibits. It's a great place to learn about the local culture and history.
6. Karosta Water Tower: The Karosta Water Tower is an iconic landmark in Liepaja and offers spectacular views of the city from its observation deck.
7. Peter's Market: This bustling market is a great place to experience the local food and culture. You'll find fresh produce, baked goods, and traditional Latvian souvenirs.
8. Open Air Museum of Ancient Household Appliances: This quirky museum showcases a collection of old household appliances from the 19th and early 20th centuries. It's a fun and interesting way to learn about the daily life of Latvians in the past.
I hope this information helps you plan a great trip to Liepaja!
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 Liepaja.

When to go on holiday to Liepaja

The best time to visit Liepaja is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is at its warmest (between 15°C to 20°C) and the city comes alive with events and festivals. However, note that August can be quite busy and accommodation might be more expensive. If you prefer a quieter and colder atmosphere, you can also visit during the winter months for a chance of seeing the beautiful Northern Lights. Additionally, Liepaja has a mild climate with relatively small temperature variations, so you can visit at any time of year.

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

How to get to Liepaja

There are different ways to get to Liepaja, Latvia depending on your location and preferred mode of transportation. Here are some options: 1. By Plane: Liepaja International Airport offers direct flights to Riga with Air Baltic. From Riga, you can connect to other international destinations.
2. By Bus: There are several bus operators offering bus services from cities like Riga, Vilnius, and Kaunas to Liepaja. The journey may take between 3 to 5 hours depending on the starting point.
3. By Train: There are several train services departing from Riga Central Station to Liepaja. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.
4. By Car: Liepaja is approximately 220 km from Riga. You can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach there. I hope this information helps. Safe travels!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Liepaja, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Liepaja

Sure, here are some typical foods of Liepaja, Latvia along with a brief description for each of them: 1. Liepājas menciņi - A type of small fish dish that is fried and served with potatoes and vegetables.
2. Sklandrausis - A traditional Latvian dessert that is made from rye flour and filled with sweetened carrots, potatoes, and spices.
3. Liepājas laši - A type of smoked salmon that is known for its mild flavor and firm texture.
4. Putnu piens - A cold soup that is typically made with kefir, sour cream, and various herbs and spices.
5. Liepājas saldskābmaize - A sourdough bread that is known for its dense texture and distinctive flavor.
6. Sylt Kāposti - A flavorful sweet-and-sour cabbage that is often served as a side dish or as a topping for meat dishes.
7. Zirņi ar speķi - A classic Latvian dish that consists of peas that are simmered with bacon and served with potatoes.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Latvia here.

Is Liepaja an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other European destinations, Liepaja is generally considered to be quite affordable for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are relatively reasonable, and many of the city's top attractions are free of charge. Of course, the total cost of a trip to Liepaja will depend on your individual travel style and budget, but in general, it is a destination that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Liepaja

The best areas to find accommodation in Liepaja, Latvia are likely in or close to the city center. Some popular areas to consider include the city's historic center, the area around Liepaja Beach, or the Karosta district (a former Soviet naval base with many historical attractions). It's also worth considering options near Liepaja's train station if you're planning on exploring the surrounding region.
You can check hotel prices at Liepaja here:
Booking.com

Is Liepaja a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Liepaja is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any city, it is always recommended to take normal precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and using common sense when walking alone at night. It is also advisable to stay in well-lit areas and to avoid stray or aggressive animals. Overall, visitors should not encounter any serious safety issues while visiting Liepaja.
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 Liepaja.

What type of travelers will enjoy Liepaja the most?

Liepaja, Latvia is a great destination for all types of travelers but it's particularly ideal for couples and families. Here are some reasons why: Couples: Liepaja has a romantic vibe that makes it perfect for couples. You can take a stroll down the beach, explore the peaceful parks or go on a boat ride for two. The city also has excellent restaurants and cafes serving local cuisine, so you can enjoy a lovely meal together.
Families: Liepaja has plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. The Kurzeme Fortress is a must-visit for history buffs and kids will love the children's playgrounds in the city parks. The beach is also perfect for building sandcastles and swimming, while the nature trails at the Lake Liepaja Promenade are great for a family hike.
Young people: Liepaja might not be a party capital, but there are still plenty of options for young people looking for fun. The city has a thriving music scene with regular concerts and festivals, and there are several nightclubs and bars for those who want to dance and socialize.

How to get around Liepaja

The most common way to move around Liepaja is by using public transportation such as buses or minibusses. They operate on multiple routes and are relatively affordable for travelers. Taxis are also available, but they may be more expensive than taking a bus. Additionally, renting bicycles or using a ride-sharing service such as Bolt or Uber are great transportation options for exploring downtown Liepaja and nearby areas. Walking is also feasible, as the city center is relatively small and pedestrian-friendly.

What to see around Liepaja

Here are some nice places you could visit on a day trip from Liepaja in Latvia: 1. Ventspils: Located about 60 km north of Liepaja, Ventspils is a charming town famous for its beautiful beaches and scenic parks.
2. Kuldiga: Located about 70 km east of Liepaja, Kuldiga boasts Latvia's widest waterfall, Ventas Rumba, and a charming old town full of historic buildings.
3. Grobina: This tiny town is located just 10 km southeast of Liepaja and features a beautiful Medieval castle ruin and a lovely park.
4. Pape Nature Park: Located about 20 km south of Liepaja, this nature preserve protects one of Latvia's most important bird nesting areas along with beautiful sand dunes and forested areas.
5. Pavilosta: Located about 30 km northeast of Liepaja, this small fishing town offers beautiful sandy beaches, fishing opportunities, and an old lighthouse to explore.
For every travel information about Latvia you can click here.

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