7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Riga

Digital nomads living in Riga have the unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural offerings of Latvia during their weekends. From the bustling city life to serene nature escapes, there's a perfect getaway for every taste. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, these seven destinations offer a refreshing break from your work routine, all within reach from Riga.

J?rmala

Just a short train ride away from Riga, J?rmala is the go-to beach destination for locals and visitors alike. This coastal town is famous for its long, sandy beaches and charming wooden architecture. You can stroll along the bustling Jomas Street, relax in the Dzintari Forest Park, or take a dip in the Baltic Sea. The town also hosts various music and cultural festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.

How to Get There: J?rmala is easily accessible by train from Riga, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day from Riga's central station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Dzintari Concert Hall, which offers a range of performances in a historic setting.

Where to Stay: Hotel J?rmala Spa offers a luxurious experience with its extensive wellness facilities, while the Baltic Beach Hotel boasts an amazing sea view.

Where to Eat: Café 53 is renowned for its cozy atmosphere and delicious cakes, perfect for a relaxing afternoon treat.

C?sis

C?sis is a charming historical town that's perfect for history buffs and nature lovers. The town's medieval castle is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into Latvia's past. The nearby Gauja National Park provides ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the great outdoors. C?sis also has a vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and a variety of cafes and restaurants to explore.

How to Get There: C?sis is about 1.5 hours away from Riga by car or bus. Regular bus services are available from Riga's central bus station.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the C?sis Castle complex and its museum, which includes a lantern-lit tour of the castle's dungeons.

Where to Stay: The cozy Hotel C?sis is centrally located and offers easy access to the town's attractions, while the Karlamuiza Country Hotel is set in a beautiful manor house in the countryside.

Where to Eat: R?tes V?rti is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Latvian cuisine with a modern twist.

Kuld?ga

Kuld?ga is often referred to as the "Venice of Latvia" due to the picturesque Venta River running through its center. The town is known for having the widest waterfall in Europe, Ventas Rumba, and its well-preserved old town with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Kuld?ga's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend away from the city.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Kuld?ga is by car, which takes about 2 hours from Riga. There are also bus services available, though they may take longer.

Travel Tip: Visit in spring to witness the "flying fish" phenomenon, where fish attempt to jump over the Ventas Rumba waterfall.

Where to Stay: The boutique Hotel Kuld?ga offers a comfortable stay in the heart of the old town, and some rooms even have a view of the waterfall.

Where to Eat: Goldingen Room, located in the old town, is a favorite for its creative dishes and selection of craft beers.

Liep?ja

Liep?ja, known as the "city where the wind is born," is a coastal city with a unique blend of old and new. It boasts a beautiful beach, a vibrant music scene, and an array of architectural styles. The city's Karosta district, a former secret military town, is now a fascinating area to explore with its abandoned buildings and prison, which is now a museum.

How to Get There: Liep?ja can be reached by car in about 3 hours from Riga, or by direct bus from the central bus station, which takes a similar amount of time.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour of Karosta Prison and experience the life of a prisoner for a night, if you dare.

Where to Stay: Promenade Hotel offers a luxurious stay with views of the trade canal, while the Liva Hotel is a more budget-friendly option in the city center.

Where to Eat: Boulangerie is a delightful bakery and café that serves up fresh pastries and bread, perfect for a seaside picnic.

Sigulda

Sigulda, often called the "Switzerland of Latvia," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is set in the picturesque Gauja River Valley and offers a range of activities such as bungee jumping, zip-lining, and tobogganing. Sigulda's castles and historical monuments, like the Turaida Museum Reserve, provide a cultural counterpoint to the adrenaline-pumping adventures.

How to Get There: Sigulda is about an hour's drive from Riga or can be reached by train, with frequent services running from Riga's central station.

Travel Tip: For a unique view of the Gauja Valley, take a ride on the Sigulda Cable Car, especially stunning during the autumn foliage season.

Where to Stay: The SPA Hotel Ezeri offers relaxation with its spa facilities and scenic lake views, while the Hotel Sigulda provides a comfortable stay near the town center.

Where to Eat: Mr. Biskv?ts is a charming café that offers a selection of homemade cakes and light meals, ideal for refueling after a day of exploration.

Irbene Radio Astronomy Center

For an offbeat weekend getaway, the Irbene Radio Astronomy Center is a fascinating destination. This former Soviet-era spy station, now repurposed for scientific research, is home to the largest radio telescope in Northern Europe. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history of the site and its current role in astronomy. The surrounding area of Kurzeme is also worth exploring for its untouched nature and quaint villages.

How to Get There: Irbene is best reached by car, as it's located in a remote part of the Ventspils region, about a 3-hour drive from Riga.

Travel Tip: Check the schedule for public tours in advance, as the facility is not always open to visitors without prior arrangement.

Where to Stay: There are several guesthouses in the nearby town of Ventspils, such as the Guest House Kupfernams, which offers a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat: J?ras br?ze in Ventspils is a local favorite, known for its fresh seafood dishes and seaside ambiance.

Sl?tere National Park

Sl?tere National Park is a hidden gem for those looking to escape into nature. This UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve on the west coast of Latvia is home to diverse wildlife, ancient forests, and a unique coastline with lighthouses and wild beaches. Hiking trails wind through the park, leading to observation towers that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

How to Get There: The park is located in the Kurzeme region and is best accessed by car, taking around 2.5 hours from Riga.

Travel Tip: Visit the Sl?tere Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding forests.

Where to Stay: The quaint Melnsils Camping offers both camping facilities and cozy cabins right by the sea.

Where to Eat: The nearby town of Dundaga offers local dining options like K?pas, which serves traditional Latvian meals in a rustic setting.