Things To Do
in Daugavpils

Daugavpils is the second-largest city in Latvia, located in the southeastern part of the country. Known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, it features stunning architecture, including the iconic Daugavpils Fortress. The city is a vibrant hub for arts and education, boasting numerous galleries and institutions.

Surrounded by beautiful nature, it offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Daugavpils Fortress, where you can explore its historic walls and museums.

afternoon
:

Head to the Mark Rothko Art Centre to view contemporary art and learn about the famous Latvian-American artist.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Latvian cuisine, followed by a stroll along the Daugava River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Visit the Daugavpils Botanical Garden to admire the diverse plant collections and serene landscapes.

afternoon
:

Take a relaxing walk in the nearby Priedaine Nature Park, perfect for bird watching and enjoying the outdoors.

evening
:

Explore the local nightlife, perhaps visiting a bar or cultural venue for live music or performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$3
🚆Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Night in a Hotel$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-Latvian speakers.
  • Fewer international transport links.
  • "Sveiki" - Hello
  • "Paldies" - Thank you
  • "Lūdzu" - Please
  • "Atvainojiet" - Excuse me
  • "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Daugavpils

Visit one of these nice places.

Daugavpils Fortress

Capture the historic architecture and beautiful surroundings of this impressive fortification.

St. Peter's Church

A stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture, perfect for both exterior and interior shots.

Daugava River Promenade

A picturesque location for sunset photography, with scenic views of the river and city skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Daugavpils

Daugavpils offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Latvian dishes and modern influences.

Daugavpils Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grey Peas with Bacon

A traditional Latvian dish made from grey peas and served with crispy bacon, often enjoyed as a hearty meal.

Must-Try!

Rupjmaize

A dense, dark rye bread that is a staple in Latvian cuisine, perfect for pairing with various toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Daugavpils Central Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls offering traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Daugavpils experiences a temperate continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average highs around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and maintaining eye contact is important.

Respect for Nature

Latvians have a deep respect for nature; avoid littering and be mindful of your surroundings.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social gatherings is seen as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Daugavpils is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of your belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Daugavpils

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm with long daylight hours, perfect for festivals and outdoor dining along the river.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, creating beautiful landscapes for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Daugavpils at Night

Daugavpils has a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and cultural venues. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance parties, and local events. The atmosphere is relaxed, with many places offering traditional drinks and snacks. Popular spots include cozy pubs for socializing and nightclubs for dancing, catering to different tastes and age groups.

Hiking in Daugavpils

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sventes Lake Trail

A scenic hiking trail around Sventes Lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Daugavpils Regional Park

Features various trails through forests and along rivers, ideal for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Daugavpils by plane.

Daugavpils International Airport

Located approximately 12 km from the city center, this airport offers limited flights mainly to regional destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Daugavpils is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones allow for safe and enjoyable strolls. Public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Latvians

The majority ethnic group, Latvians are known for their rich cultural traditions and language.

Russian-speaking population

A significant demographic group, especially in Daugavpils, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A popular sport in Latvia, with local teams that participate in national leagues, attracting enthusiastic fans.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played, with many local clubs and a strong following, especially among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Daugavpils is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation, with dedicated bike lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Daugavpils.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu or ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but availability may vary; inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Daugavpils is accessible with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services are reliable, and the city has both public and private health facilities. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare while abroad.

Discover Latvia

Read more in our Latvia 2025 Travel Guide.

Latvia Travel Guide