Things To Do
in Ķekava

Ķekava is a picturesque town located just south of Riga, Latvia. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests and rivers, making it a serene escape from the bustling capital. The town boasts a rich history, with remnants of its past visible in various historical sites.

Ķekava also offers convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a friendly, small-town atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ķekava River, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ķekava Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a stroll through the nearby Ķekava Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a peaceful evening walk around the town to appreciate its quiet charm.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Experiences and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local farmers' market to taste fresh produce and local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby forests for a hike or cycling, experiencing Latvia's beautiful nature up close.

evening
:

Relax at a cafe with a view of the river and enjoy the sunset while sipping on a traditional Latvian beverage.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$12
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night stay$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich history and cultural experiences.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from city hustle.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Less public transportation compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer English-speaking locals.
  • "Sveiki" - Hello
  • "Paldies" - Thank you
  • "Lūdzu" - Please
  • "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Ķekava

Visit one of these nice places.

Ķekava River

A beautiful river that provides stunning landscapes perfect for nature photography.

Ķekava Church

An iconic local church with unique architecture, an excellent spot for capturing historical essence.

Ķekava Park

A serene park that offers picturesque views, especially during autumn when the leaves change colors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ķekava

Ķekava offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Latvia, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Ķekava Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grey Peas with Bacon

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

Must-Try!

Rye Bread

A staple in Latvian cuisine, this dense and flavorful bread is perfect with butter or as a side with meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ķekava Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, handmade goods, and tasty street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ķekava experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, averaging between -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F), while summers are mild and pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in spring and autumn. Snow is common in winter, creating a picturesque landscape.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Respecting Privacy

Latvians value their privacy, so it's polite to avoid intrusive questions.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and always thank them afterwards.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ķekava is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It's also advisable to be cautious when engaging with strangers.

Tipping in Ķekava

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Enjoy warm weather perfect for hiking, picnics, and exploring local markets.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, great for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Ķekava at Night

The nightlife in Ķekava is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but there are a few bars and cafes where locals gather. Most places offer a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying drinks with friends. During summer, outdoor seating becomes popular, and occasional live music events may take place, adding to the vibrant local scene.

Hiking in Ķekava

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Baldone Nature Reserve

A beautiful area with various trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.

Gauja National Park

Located a bit further away, it offers stunning landscapes, hiking paths, and a chance to see unique flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Ķekava by plane.

Riga International Airport

Located about 20 km (12 miles) from Ķekava, this is the main international airport serving the region with numerous flight connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ķekava is a relatively walkable town, with most amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town is equipped with pedestrian-friendly paths and parks that encourage walking. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances, especially if venturing into surrounding nature.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Latvian Nationals

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Latvians, who are proud of their cultural heritage.

Russian-Speaking Community

A significant portion of the population speaks Russian, reflecting Latvia's historical ties and diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Latvia, and local teams often engage in community events and competitions.

Football (Soccer)

Football has a strong following, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ķekava is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting to Riga and other nearby towns, providing a convenient option for travelers. During peak hours, some congestion may occur, particularly on routes leading to the capital.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ķekava.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Latvian cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

Some cafes provide gluten-free options, particularly for bread and pastries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ķekava is accessible, with several local clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical issues, residents often seek care in nearby Riga, where hospitals and specialized medical services are more readily available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 113.

Discover Latvia

Read more in our Latvia 2025 Travel Guide.

Latvia Travel Guide