Things To Do
in Daugavpils
Nestled on the Daugava River in Latvia's Latgale region, Daugavpils blends fortress-age history with multicultural charm. The city is best known for its massive 17th-century fortress and the Mark Rothko Art Centre honoring the Latvian-born modernist painter. Its streets showcase a mix of wooden houses, red-brick architecture, and a bilingual vibe reflecting Latvian and Russian influences.
Compact and walkable, it makes an approachable base for exploring Latgale's nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Daugavpils and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling Latvian pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic city center to admire its eclectic architecture.
Visit the Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre, where contemporary art meets the rich local culture. Explore exhibitions showcasing the works of the famous painter Mark Rothko, as well as other local artists. For lunch, enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Wrap up your day with a riverside walk along the Daugava River, taking in the serene views as the sun sets. Choose a cozy eatery to savor a hearty dinner, perhaps trying out 'sklandrausis', a traditional Latvian pie. Enjoy an evening drink while soaking in the local ambiance.
Embark on a day trip to the nearby Latgale region, known for its picturesque lakes and lush landscapes. Start with a hike around the shores of Lake Lielais Baltezers, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the stunning scenery. Have a picnic breakfast amidst nature.
Continue your nature adventure with a guided canoe trip, paddling through tranquil waters and observing local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a lakeside café, enjoying fresh fish dishes and local produce. Experience the peace that comes with the serene landscape.
Return to Daugavpils and savor a quiet dinner at your accommodation or a local restaurant. Reflect upon your nature experiences while enjoying a comforting meal. Spend your evening relaxing, perhaps with a good book, as you cozy up in your hotel.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🏨1-night stay at a mid-range hotel | $40-80 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $30-70 |
| 🚌Public transport pass (monthly) | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and the Mark Rothko Centre
- Compact, walkable city center
- Lower costs compared to Western Europe
- Scenic river setting and fortress
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Baltic capitals
- Some attractions seasonal or closed on Mondays
- Weather can be chilly outside summer
- "Sveiks! Kā jums klājas?" - Hi! How are you?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
Places to Visit in Daugavpils
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast 17th-century fortress with red-brick walls and bastions, ideal for wide-angle and sunset shots.
Modern architecture set against historic surroundings; great for contrast and framing.
Imposing domes and detailed façades providing striking cityscape photography.
Broad river views, bridges, and boats—perfect for riverside photography and silhouettes.
Food in Daugavpils
Daugavpils Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grey peas with fried bacon, a hearty Latgalian staple often served with rye bread.
Must-Try!
Traditional rye bread; great on its own or as a vehicle for cheeses and spreads.
Latgalian curd pastries, a sweet or lightly tangy pastry enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Savory bacon and onion-filled pastry bites, a common and satisfying street-side treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering local produce, dairy, rye breads, smoked fish, and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people with appropriate titles. In mixed-language settings, politeness matters.
Modest dress in religious places; speak quietly in public; avoid loud, disruptive behavior in quiet zones.
Safety
Tipping in Daugavpils
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in restaurants around 5-10% if service is good; not always expected in cafés or markets.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common. Some markets may prefer cash for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with warm, pleasant weather; ideal for outdoor activities and walking tours. Be prepared for occasional showers and enjoy sunset by the river.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great for city strolls and photography around nature spots near the river.
Cold and possibly snowy; frost and ice on the Daugava, indoor attractions become popular and festive lights appear in town.
Rising temperatures and blooming trees; birdsong and river life resume active pace—perfect for nature walks.
Daugavpils at Night
Hiking in Daugavpils
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river trails with birdlife and forest paths just outside the city.
Airports
How to reach Daugavpils by plane.
Nearest major international hub, about 230–250 km away; trains or buses connect easily to Daugavpils.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group; Latvian is widely spoken.
Significant Russian-speaking population, especially in Latgale; Russian is commonly used in daily life.
Latgalian language and cultural presence in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at amateur and school levels; local gyms and courts are common.
Local clubs and matches; easy to catch a game during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Daugavpils.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetable dishes and dairy-based plates are available; look for mushroom or potato-based options and request meat-free broths when applicable.