Things To Do
in Jēkabpils

Jēkabpils is a charming city located in the heart of Latvia, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. The city is situated at the confluence of the Daugava and Salaca rivers, providing picturesque views and a serene atmosphere. Jēkabpils boasts a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

With its vibrant local culture, historical sites, and outdoor activities, Jēkabpils is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Jēkabpils History Museum to learn about the city's past.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the beautiful parks along the Daugava River and visit the iconic Jēkabpils Church.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Latvian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to the nearby Zeļķi Nature Reserve for a morning hike.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and handmade crafts.

evening
:

Relax at a local café while enjoying live music or a cultural performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Night in a hotel$50
🛍️Groceries (weekly)$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Fewer English speakers compared to larger cities
  • Winter weather can be harsh
  • "Sveiki" - Hello
  • "Paldies" - Thank you
  • "Lūdzu" - Please
  • "Atvainojiet" - Excuse me
  • "Cik maksā?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Jēkabpils

Visit one of these nice places.

Daugava River

Capture stunning sunsets and picturesque views of the river and its surroundings.

Jēkabpils Church

A beautiful architectural landmark perfect for photography, especially during sunrise.

Old Town

The charming streets and historical buildings provide a great backdrop for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jēkabpils

Jēkabpils offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Latvian dishes and local flavors.

Jēkabpils Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grey Peas with Bacon

A traditional dish made from grey peas, served with crispy bacon.

Must-Try!

Rye Bread

A staple of Latvian cuisine, this dense and flavorful bread is a must-try.

Sklandrausis

A sweet pie made from rye dough filled with a mixture of carrot and potato.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jēkabpils Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Street Vendors

Look out for street food vendors selling traditional Latvian snacks like piragi (bacon pastries).

Climate Guide

Weather

Jēkabpils has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Etiquette

A firm handshake is common when greeting someone for the first time.

Respect for Nature

Latvians value their natural surroundings; visitors should avoid littering and respect wildlife.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Latvian culture, especially for business and formal meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jēkabpils is generally considered a safe city for visitors. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s recommended to know the locations of the nearest hospitals.

Tipping in Jēkabpils

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to visit.

Summer

Warm weather with long days; perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn

The city is adorned with vibrant fall colors, ideal for photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy; visitors can enjoy winter sports and festive Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Jēkabpils at Night

Jēkabpils offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and clubs that cater to a variety of tastes. Visitors can enjoy live music, local beers, and themed events. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place for socializing after dark.

Hiking in Jēkabpils

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zeļķi Nature Reserve Trail

A scenic trail that winds through forests and wetlands, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Daugava River Trail

A picturesque trail alongside the river, offering stunning views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Jēkabpils by plane.

Riga International Airport

Located approximately 150 km from Jēkabpils, this is the largest airport in Latvia, offering numerous international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jēkabpils is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city has pedestrian-friendly streets, and walking is a pleasant way to explore its historical sites and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Latvians

The majority ethnic group, Latvians make up the bulk of the population and are known for their rich cultural traditions.

Russian-speaking community

A significant minority in Jēkabpils, this group contributes to the cultural diversity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played and followed, with local teams participating in national leagues.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jēkabpils is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jēkabpils.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to inquire with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Jēkabpils is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most healthcare providers speak some English.

Discover Latvia

Read more in our Latvia 2025 Travel Guide.

Latvia Travel Guide