Published on December 8, 2025
Rīga joins Sigulda, Cēsis, Daugavpils, Jūrmala, and more in offering some of the most unbelievable Christmas and New Year destinations. From Rīga’s famous Christmas markets to the winter charm of Sigulda, each of these cities holds a unique winter magic. Whether you’re seeking festive markets, cultural experiences, or peaceful nature retreats, these destinations have it all. Rīga, the capital, leads the way with its historic Old Town and vibrant celebrations.
Meanwhile, Sigulda and Cēsis invite you to immerse yourself in snow-covered landscapes and medieval charm. Daugavpils and Jūrmala offer a blend of art, culture, and quiet winter getaways. These destinations are truly a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the best of Christmas and New Year in Latvia. You can’t miss this incredible opportunity!
Advertisement
Rīga, Latvia’s capital, stands out as the main hub for holiday celebrations. This city is home to the famous Riga Christmas Market, which will run from late November to early January in 2025. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this market is an absolute must-see.
The market is a visual feast: imagine rows of charming stalls adorned with festive lights, selling everything from traditional Latvian crafts to mulled wine and gingerbread cookies. A massive Christmas tree stands proudly in the middle, surrounded by lively music, cultural performances, and locals dressed in festive costumes. It’s no wonder that Rīga has been ranked 3rd in Europe for Best Christmas Markets in 2025.
Beyond the market, Rīga offers visitors so much more. Explore the UNESCO-listed architecture of the Old Town, visit world-class museums, and enjoy a range of winter cultural programmes. Whether you’re wandering through its cobbled streets or sipping a hot drink in a cozy café, Rīga’s festive spirit will capture your heart.
Why go? Rīga is perfect for first-time visitors, festive-market lovers, and anyone wanting to experience the full Christmas magic in a city that combines modern comforts with centuries of history.
Advertisement
If you’re looking for snow-covered landscapes and winter sports, Sigulda is your ideal destination. Known as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Sigulda offers stunning views of the Gauja National Park, with its rolling hills and ancient castles blanketed in snow.
Sigulda is a haven for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Skiing, sledging, and snowshoeing are popular pastimes in the region, with outdoor tracks and ski hills welcoming winter adventurers. But Sigulda isn’t just for thrill-seekers – the town is steeped in history with attractions like Sigulda Castle and the nearby Krimulda Manor.
In 2025, Sigulda will also host local winter festivals, where visitors can enjoy folk dances, concerts, and seasonal performances. The combination of thrilling winter activities and scenic beauty makes Sigulda a top choice for nature lovers.
Why go? Sigulda is perfect for winter-sport enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
For those who want to step back in time and experience a quieter, more intimate winter getaway, Cēsis is the place to be. This medieval town in northern Latvia offers a charming atmosphere, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Cēsis is known for its beautiful winter landscapes and proximity to Gauja National Park, which becomes a peaceful winter wonderland in the colder months. In 2025, Cēsis will host festive events, including local folk dances and concerts. It’s the perfect place to explore Latvia’s heritage while enjoying the winter season.
Whether you’re exploring the town’s castles or sipping a hot drink by the fire, Cēsis offers a relaxing and magical holiday experience that’s perfect for couples and history buffs.
Why go? Cēsis is ideal for those seeking a blend of history, heritage, and a peaceful, picturesque winter escape.
Daugavpils, Latvia’s second-largest city, offers a unique mix of art, culture, and winter festivities. In 2025, the city’s Christmas market will take place inside the historic Daugavpils Fortress, where visitors can explore festive fairs, handicrafts, and enjoy a magical Santa’s residence.
One of the highlights of Daugavpils is the Rothko Art Centre, dedicated to the famous painter Mark Rothko, who was born in the city. The museum will host a range of winter exhibitions, making it a great stop for art lovers.
If you’re in the mood for some winter adventure, Daugavpils also offers cross-country skiing and evening skiing in nearby forest tracks, where the snow-covered trees create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
Why go? Daugavpils is perfect for those who want a mix of cultural experiences, art, history, and winter recreation – without the crowds of major tourist hubs.
For a quieter, off-the-beaten-path winter experience, Jūrmala offers the perfect escape. Located just 25 km from Rīga, this seaside resort town transforms in the winter into a serene and peaceful getaway.
Jūrmala’s long stretch of sandy beach takes on a calm and beautiful atmosphere in winter, making it a perfect spot for a reflective winter break. The town is also known for its wooden Art Nouveau houses, which add charm and elegance to the winter scenery.
Though Jūrmala is not famous for Christmas markets, the peaceful seaside vibe combined with its natural beauty makes it a wonderful place for a winter holiday.
Why go? Jūrmala is ideal for those seeking a calm, romantic seaside winter retreat away from the traditional Christmas-market rush.
For a unique winter experience, consider visiting Liepāja, a coastal city on the western coast of Latvia. Known for its windy, dramatic coastline and peaceful winter beaches, Liepāja offers an alternative winter vibe to the bustling Christmas markets of other cities.
Liepāja’s off-season charm is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy winter by the sea. The town offers a range of winter activities, including peaceful walks along the beach and exploring its Art Nouveau architecture. The nearby coastal towns also offer scenic winter landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.
Why go? Liepāja is great for nature and sea lovers who seek a quiet winter coastal experience instead of the typical Christmas rush.
The Latgale region, known as the “Land of Blue Lakes,” offers a peaceful winter getaway for those who love nature and serenity. The region is home to beautiful frozen lakes, estates, and manors like Lūznava Manor, which add to its charm during the winter months.
In addition to its natural beauty, Latgale offers cultural experiences with local traditions, festivals, and craft markets. This tranquil region is perfect for travellers who want to enjoy a slower pace and explore Latvia’s countryside.
Why go? Latgale is ideal for those who seek a peaceful, culturally rich winter escape away from the main tourist destinations.
For those seeking a more refined and elegant winter holiday, Rundāle offers the perfect setting. The historic Rundāle Palace, located in southern Latvia, is often included in winter holiday itineraries and is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
During the winter months, the palace’s snow-covered gardens and peaceful surroundings create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples or anyone seeking a quiet, elegant winter retreat.
Why go? Rundāle is perfect for heritage enthusiasts, romantic travellers, and anyone who enjoys the beauty of historic palaces in a serene winter setting.
Jelgava, a city located south of Rīga, is a hidden gem for winter travellers. Known for its quieter atmosphere, Jelgava offers a chance to experience local life during the Christmas season. Visitors can explore the city’s beautiful architecture, including Jelgava Palace, and enjoy the peaceful winter streets.
Jelgava is perfect for those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and enjoy a more authentic winter experience.
Why go? Jelgava is ideal for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences and a quieter, more authentic winter escape.
Kuldīga is a small town in western Latvia that offers a beautiful winter landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts. The town’s charming streets, historical buildings, and Ventas Rumba waterfall, which freezes in winter, create a magical winter scene.
For those looking for a slower pace and a more peaceful atmosphere, Kuldīga is an excellent choice. It’s a perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy Latvia’s hidden winter charm.
From the festive hustle and bustle of Rīga’s Christmas markets to the tranquil, snow-covered landscapes of Sigulda and Cēsis, Latvia is a winter wonderland that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for winter sports, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, Latvia’s diverse cities and towns offer a variety of winter adventures.
Advertisement
Tags: 2025 Christmas travel, Cēsis holiday getaway, Christmas destinations in Latvia, Daugavpils winter festivals, Jūrmala winter escape
Monday, December 8, 2025
Monday, December 8, 2025
Monday, December 8, 2025
Monday, December 8, 2025
Monday, December 8, 2025