Things To Do
in Aizkraukle

Aizkraukle is a picturesque town located in central Latvia, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It sits on the banks of the Daugava River, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is famous for its historical landmarks, such as the Aizkraukles Castle ruins that date back to the 14th century.

Aizkraukle is a charming blend of culture, nature, and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a peaceful escape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Aizkraukle
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Aizkraukles Castle ruins, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Daugava River. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby park to appreciate the local flora.

afternoon
:

Head to the Aizkraukle Local History Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local café offering traditional Latvian dishes.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a walk along the riverbank, followed by dinner at a restaurant known for its local cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a hike in the nearby Daugavas Loki Nature Park, where you can explore beautiful trails and stunning river vistas.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to town for a visit to the local artisan market, where you can buy handmade crafts and local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance or live music at a local venue, followed by a late-night snack at a popular street food stall.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$10
🛍️Souvenirs$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural history with historical sites.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • English may not be widely spoken outside of tourist areas.
  • "Sveiki" - Hello
  • "Paldies" - Thank you
  • "Lūdzu" - Please
  • "Atvainojiet" - Excuse me
  • "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Aizkraukle

Visit one of these nice places.

Aizkraukles Castle Ruins

An iconic historical site with stunning views of the Daugava River, perfect for capturing the essence of Aizkraukle.

Daugavas Loki Nature Park

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and winding river paths, this park is ideal for nature photography.

City Park

A tranquil park filled with lush greenery and flowers, providing beautiful backdrops for casual photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aizkraukle

Aizkraukle offers a delightful culinary experience that highlights traditional Latvian flavors and local ingredients.

Aizkraukle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grey Peas and Ham

A traditional Latvian dish made with grey peas and served with pieces of smoked ham.

Must-Try!

Rye Bread

Locally made rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine, known for its dense texture and rich flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aizkraukle Artisan Market

An open-air market featuring local crafts, foods, and fresh produce, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aizkraukle experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and pleasant, averaging around 20°C (68°F). Spring and autumn are transitional and can be quite variable, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing vibrant foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and it's customary to keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Respect for Nature

Latvians value their natural surroundings, so always follow local guidelines when exploring outdoors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aizkraukle is generally considered a safe town for visitors. However, like any destination, it's wise to take standard precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Aizkraukle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included, but rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash (EUR) on hand for small purchases and markets is useful.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with longer days allows for extensive exploration, especially along the river.

Autumn

The fall foliage offers stunning views, and cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter transforms Aizkraukle into a winter wonderland, great for those who enjoy winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Aizkraukle at Night

Aizkraukle has a relaxed nightlife scene, featuring a few bars and cafes where live music and local performances are common. While not bustling, it offers a cozy atmosphere for socializing and enjoying a drink. The town is more focused on cultural events, with occasional festivals and gatherings that feature local artists and musicians.

Hiking in Aizkraukle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Daugavas Loki Nature Park Trails

A network of scenic trails that offer diverse landscapes, including riverbanks, forests, and hills, suitable for various skill levels.

Pļaviņas Hiking Trail

A well-marked trail that provides stunning views of the Daugava River and surrounding nature, ideal for day hikes.

Airports

How to reach Aizkraukle by plane.

Riga International Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Aizkraukle, this is the main international airport in Latvia, offering flights to numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aizkraukle is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and the well-maintained sidewalks encourage leisurely strolls. However, some outdoor areas and hiking trails may require transportation to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Latvians

The majority ethnic group in Aizkraukle, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Russian Speakers

A significant minority that also influences the local culture, especially in language and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Latvia, and local teams often host games that are enjoyable for fans.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local clubs engaging in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aizkraukle is generally light, with most residents relying on cars or bicycles for transportation. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to nearby towns. However, schedules may vary, so checking local timetables is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aizkraukle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about ingredients as some traditional dishes may contain meat.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more popular; however, availability may vary, so checking with staff is advisable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Aizkraukle is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing basic services. Emergency services can be reached easily, and most healthcare professionals speak some English. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover Latvia

Read more in our Latvia 2025 Travel Guide.

Latvia Travel Guide