Travelling to Latvia: An Easy, Affordable Destination
A trip to Latvia means discovering a European destination that's surprisingly simple and affordable. Compared to other European countries, Latvia stands out for a moderate cost of living, with an average daily budget of around €29 per person. That's great news for entrepreneurs used to prices in major capitals like Paris or Berlin.
Riga, the capital, is the beating heart of Latvia, with 600,000 residents and Art Nouveau architecture listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation costs are very competitive, with options ranging from €10 to €25 a night for a dorm bed, and whole apartments from €14 a night.
How to Get to Latvia
Reaching Latvia is straightforward thanks to direct flights from airlines like airBaltic and Ryanair. Departures from major European cities let you reach Riga in just 2 to 3 hours in many cases. Ticket prices vary but generally stay competitive, especially when booked ahead.
For those who prefer a slower route, train and ferry connections via the other Baltic states remain an option, provided you're happy with a significantly longer journey. It's a good compromise if you want to explore the region along the way rather than reach Riga as quickly as possible.
Best Times to Visit Latvia
Latvia's climate features long, cold winters, but summers, though short, are pleasantly warm. The summer solstice is particularly spectacular, with daylight from around 4:30am to 10:20pm. In winter, days are much shorter, with about 6 hours 40 minutes of daylight.
Good to know
Latvia hosts major cultural events throughout the year, such as the Riga Opera Festival in June and the Positivus music festival in July. Travelling in the shoulder season, like early spring or autumn, means lower prices and smaller crowds.
Practical Tips for Your Stay in Latvia
On arrival, you'll find English is commonly understood, particularly in Riga and in business settings, which makes communication easy (Latvian remains the official language, and Russian is also widely spoken). For getting around, the Bolt app is handy for taxis and scooters, while local rail apps cover regional train tickets.
On currency, Latvia has used the euro since 2014, so there's no need to worry about exchange rates. A local SIM card can be bought cheaply to stay connected. For accommodation, choosing between lively central Riga and its quieter outskirts will depend on your specific needs.
A Safe, Welcoming Destination
For anyone still hesitant, Latvia is a safe country, with a low terrorism threat level. A few basic precautions against pickpocketing are worth taking, as in any major city, but Riga remains welcoming for tourists and entrepreneurs alike.
This is also a point that often comes up among international entrepreneurs who visit before getting started: Latvia remains an accessible destination for anyone looking to diversify their activities while staying within the European Union.
Ready to discover Latvia and consider new opportunities? Contact our team for tailored support on your entrepreneurial project.