Things To Do
in Kuldīga
Kuldīga is a picturesque town in western Latvia famed for its winding river, timber and brick architecture, and the dramatic Venta waterfall. Its compact old town is easy to explore on foot, with pastel-colored houses lining the banks of the Venta River. The town blends history with natural beauty, including wetlands, woodlands, and cycling paths.
A visit here reveals a quiet, scenic side of Latvia away from the capital's bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the cobblestone streets of Kuldīga's Old Town, where you can admire the beautifully restored wooden architecture. Visit the Kuldīga District Museum to learn about the city's rich history and traditions. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a local café infused with the aroma of freshly baked pastries.
After lunch, head towards the famous Kuldīga Waterfall, the widest waterfall in Europe, where you can witness the mesmerizing flow of water. Take a leisurely stroll in the surrounding area, capturing stunning photographs of the landscape. As the afternoon sun sets, find a perfect spot by the river to relax and soak in the beauty.
In the evening, dine at one of Kuldīga's charming restaurants, offering traditional Latvian cuisine paired with local wines. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals and visitors gather in the town square. End your day with a quiet walk along the Ventas River, watching the sunset create a magical reflection on the water.
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the nearby Riežupe Sand Caves, a natural wonder formed by sand mining. Explore the mysterious tunnels and learn about the geological history of the region. Don't forget to capture the unique formations with your camera.
After your spelunking adventure, spend the afternoon canoeing on the River Venta. Paddle through the serene waterways surrounded by lush greenery and a variety of bird species. Stop for a picnic on the riverbank, enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Return to Kuldīga in the evening and visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture. Sample handmade goods and local food products while interacting with the friendly vendors. As night falls, find a cozy spot for dinner, immersing yourself in the local flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
| 🚲Bike rental for a day | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with riverfront charm
- Excellent example of Kurzeme architecture and scenery
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions close outside peak season
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please / Here you go
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Es nevaru runāt latviski" - I can't speak Latvian
Places to Visit in Kuldīga
Visit one of these nice places.
The dramatic, wide waterfall where the Venta river narrows into cascades; the nearby viewing platform and riverbanks offer sweeping panorama shots.
Colorful 17th–19th-century façades along the canal create classic Latvian townscape postcards.
A scenic bridge and the gently meandering river make for reflective sunset shots.
Cobblestones, stone façades, and lamplight provide atmospheric night photography.
Food in Kuldīga
Kuldīga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Latvian dish of slow-cooked grey peas served with smoky speck (bacon) – a staple of country kitchens, often enjoyed with rye bread.
Must-Try!
A traditional Kurzeme pastry made with carrot filling wrapped in a thin rye dough.
Savory pastries baked with crispy bacon or onion fillings, perfect as a snack.
Dark, crusty rye bread—paired with salted butter or local cheeses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market near the town center where locals buy seasonal produce, dairy, and bakery goods; try fresh rye bread and local cheeses.
Seasonal stalls offering smoked fish from the Venta and simple hot dishes, especially in warm months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite “Sveiki” (hello) or shake hands; address adults with courtesy. Be punctual for appointments and avoid loud conversations in quiet areas.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep noise down on public transport; respect local customs and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Kuldīga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good is common. At cafes, tipping is optional.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small shops and markets; mobile payments (where available) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild-to-warm temperatures; great for outdoor walks, boat trips, and photography along the river. Expect occasional rain and peak tourist season in July.
Golden forests and quiet streets; good light for landscapes and city views; cooler days with a mix of sun and showers.
Cold with possible snow; atmospheric, candle-lit evenings in the old town; some outdoor attractions may be limited by weather.
Milder temperatures, blooming trees, and gradual rise in activity; canal and riverside paths are pleasant for walking.
Kuldīga at Night
Hiking in Kuldīga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails along the Abava River, offering forested paths and viewpoints about 25-40 km from Kuldīga.
Airports
How to reach Kuldīga by plane.
The main international gateway about 180-200 km from Kuldīga with frequent flights and good rail/car connections.
A regional airport closer to Kuldīga with seasonal and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and retirees; the town skews slightly toward an older population, with a strong sense of local history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Latvia; local clubs and public courts are common.
Local teams and everyday play in parks and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuldīga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can prepare vegetarian options such as seasonal vegetables, salads, mushroom dishes, and cheese-based plates; ask for vegetable mains or fish-free meals; if you’re vegan, carry a snack or request egg-free/dairy-free options.