Let’s do a bit of Northern Latvia attractions speed dating. I’ll introduce you to all the ideas you can find on this blog about what to see in Northern Latvia (also known as Vidzeme). And your task will be to swipe right (I mean, click “Read”) on the routes you’d like to explore further.
Hope you find your perfect weekend getaway route!
Jump to a category:
My Top 3 Places to Visit in Northern Latvia
Beautiful Nature Trails to Discover in Northern Latvia
Mirror Cliffs on the Cīrulīši Nature Trails
A perfect introduction to the small natural wonders of Northern Latvia
This beautiful 6 km trail takes you through a magical forest landscape, with a viewing tower, caves, and fascinating natural formations waiting along the way.
Free entry. Accessible by car. Around a 4.6 km walk from the centre of Cēsis.
Lielie Kangari Bog Trail
A peaceful walk through one of Northern Latvia’s most beautiful bog landscapes.
Cooler days are perfect for exploring a wooden boardwalks through the quiet beauty of the bog. The highlight of this trail is the 33 m high Kangari viewing tower, offering views over a slowly disappearing lake.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
Ragakāpa Nature Trail & Open-Air Museum
A beautiful coastal walk in Northern Latvia.
This trail is practically on Riga’s doorstep, yet it feels like a completely different world. Enjoy fresh sea air and explore Latvia’s fishing heritage at the Jūrmala Open-Air Museum.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
Līču–Lanģu Cliffs Trail
One of the most impressive cliff landscapes in Northern Latvia.
This trail is perfect for those who enjoy a little adventure. Expect around 9 km of walking, climbing, and exploring, with dramatic sandstone cliffs, caves, carvings, and small streams hidden along the route.
Free entry. Accessible by car or train.
Kaņieris Reed Trail
Every season brings something new here. The trail winds through the whispering reeds of Lake Kaņieris, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. During warmer months, you can add a boat trip or SUP adventure across the lake to your adventure.
Trail access is free. Boat trips and SUP rental available for an additional fee. Accessible by car.
Ieriķi Mill Nature Trail
Ieriķi Mill is a fairytale-like stop in Northern Latvia
It’s a short but enchanting trail that feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s full of small surprises and beautifully designed natural scenes that make every step feel magical.
Has an entrance fee. Accessible by car.
Skaņaiskalns Nature Park
One of the most diverse nature trails in the Northern Latvia region.
An angel-shaped cave, a “devil’s cave,” a cliff that seems to talk back — all in one place. This park is packed with unusual sights, and although it takes a bit of a drive to reach, it’s absolutely worth it.
Has an entrance fee. Accessible by car.
Road Trips in Northern Latvia Combining Multiple Attractions
Sigulda – Kraukļu Gorge & Sateseles Canyon in Sigulda
Sigulda is a classic destination in the Northern Latvia region, but beyond the well-known sights lie quieter places worth discovering — springs, small waterfalls, and caves.
Free entry. Accessible by car. Expect plenty of climbing up and down.
Northern Latvia Coastline
Three very different landscapes along the coast
The Northern Latvia coastline offers a surprising variety — from rocky shores and natural obstacles to peaceful meadows stretching toward the sea.
Paid parking. Accessible by car.
Murjāņi & Kubesele Nature Trail
A road trip full of hidden stories.
This route includes unusual caves, a legendary old bobsleigh track, and a nature trail with interesting human-made elements blended into the landscape.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
Rhododendron Gardens in Kalsnava Arboretum
A botanical escape in Northern Latvia
A dreamy landscape filled with flowers, hidden paths between thuja trees, and a viewing tower. A perfect place for garden inspiration and a peaceful walk in nature.
Has an entrance fee. Accessible by car.
Rauna – Home of Rauna Staburags
A hidden gem in Northern Latvia
Not far from Cēsis lies a small town with surprising charm — caves, castle ruins, and the unique natural formation of Rauna Staburags.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
Towns to visit in Northern Latvia
Alūksne
A peaceful escape by Lake Alūksne
It’s hard to imagine a better place for calm and positive energy than Lake Alūksne on a warm summer evening. A perfect weekend escape in Northern Latvia.
Paid and free attractions. Accessible by car.
Koknese
A town made for golden autumn
When your walking through Koknese park yiu can feel the presence of historic spirits peacfuly existing all around you . The town becomes especially beautiful in autumn when the trees across the river turn golden and the paths are covered in rustling leaves.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
Valmiera
The small artistic town by the picturesque Gauja river is a less visited but worthwile stop in Northern Vidzeme. And it works well in tandem with a visit to Skaņaiskalns nature park.
Free entry. Accessible by car.
That’s it for now but I am sure this list will grow further as I continue to explore Northern Latvia. If you didn’t find what you were looking for you can also broaden the search and check out my ideas for day trips from Riga.