Latvia

General Info

Capital: Riga
Population: approx. 1.9 million
Languages: Latvian (official), Russian
Area: 64,589 km²
Timezone: UTC+2 (EET)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Flag Colors: Carmine red, white
National Day: November 18th
Anthem: Dievs, svētī Latviju!
Neighbors: Estonia, Russia, Belarus, Lithuania

Top 15 Largest Cities

1. Riga
2. Daugavpils
3. Liepāja
4. Jelgava
5. Jūrmala
6. Ventspils
7. Rēzekne
8. Valmiera
9. Ogre
10. Jēkabpils
11. Salaspils
12. Tukums
13. Cēsis
14. Sigulda
15. Olaine

Top 15 Attractions

1. Riga Old Town (Vecrīga)
2. Rundāle Palace
3. Gauja National Park
4. Jūrmala (beach resort)
5. Turaida Castle
6. Kuldīga (Venta Rapid)
7. Cēsis Medieval Castle
8. Ventspils Harbour
9. Ķemeri National Park
10. Museum of the Occupation
11. Art Nouveau District
12. Latgale Lake District
13. Liepāja Karosta
14. Freedom Monument
15. Sigulda Bobsleigh Track

Climate and Nature

Latvia has a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and relatively cold winters. The landscape is mostly flat and heavily forested (covering over 50%). The vast coastline along the Baltic Sea offers beautiful white sand beaches and impressive pine forests.

Culture and Gastronomy

Latvian culture is deeply rooted in folklore and folk songs (Dainas). Riga's architecture is world-famous for its Art Nouveau style. The cuisine is hearty, featuring rye bread (Rupjmaize), smoked fish, and potato-based dishes with plenty of dill.

Economy

As a member of the EU and Eurozone, Latvia's economy relies heavily on logistics (due to its strategic ports), woodworking, and the IT sector. Riga serves as the primary financial and business hub of the Baltic States.