Things To Do
in Ventspils
Ventspils is a Baltic port city in western Latvia known for its clean beaches and family-friendly attractions. It sits at the mouth of the Venta River and enjoys long sunny days in summer and bracing, breezy winters. The city blends a compact historic core with modern art, blue-flag beaches, and expansive seafront parks.
Visitors can experience maritime heritage, coastal nature, and a relaxed, friendly Latvian atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the sandy beaches of Ventspils. The morning sun glistens on the water while you can enjoy the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Take a moment to relax and breathe in the fresh sea air as you watch the fishermen setting out for their daily catch.
After enjoying some leisure time at the beach, visit the Ventspils Seaside Open-Air Museum to learn about the region's maritime history. The afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to explore charming wooden buildings and interactive exhibits that depict life by the sea. Don't forget to stop by the nearby café for a light lunch with local flavors.
As the sun sets, head to the Promenade where you can enjoy a casual stroll and witness the colorful sunset over the water. Many bars and restaurants are located along the Promenade, offering the chance to indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies. Listen to live music or join in on community events that often take place here in the evenings.
Visit the Ventspils Castle to dive into the rich history of the region. The morning light illuminates the castle's impressive structure, and you can take a guided tour to appreciate its well-preserved architecture. Explore the surrounding gardens where blooming flowers add a beautiful touch to the historical atmosphere.
After touring the castle, head to the nearby art gallery to admire contemporary works from Latvian artists. Spend your afternoon appreciating the local art scene and perhaps even find a unique piece to take home. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café on the castle grounds, soaking in the historic ambiance.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Ventspils Concert Hall, known for its diverse program of music and performances. Make sure to check for a concert or cultural event happening during your visit. Grab dinner at one of the town's cozy eateries, where you can chat about the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🧺Local souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches
- Walkable city core with plenty of attractions
- Ventspils can be quiet outside peak tourist season
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Sveiki" - Hello
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Man nepieciešama palīdzība" - I need help
Places to Visit in Ventspils
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide boardwalk along the Baltic with sandy beaches, water features, and distant ships; great for sunset shots.
Colorful facades, cobbled streets, and the historic Town Hall give charming urban photography opportunities.
Industrial yet scenic harbor scenes with cranes, boats, and reflections in the water.
Natural coastal landscapes with wind-swept dunes and green pine forests ideal for nature photography.
Food in Ventspils
Ventspils Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Latvian dish of mashed grey peas with fried bacon; often served with rye bread.
Must-Try!
Dense, dark rye bread served fresh, a staple accompaniment to most meals.
Locally smoked varieties, sold at markets and seaside eateries.
Small bacon-filled pies that make for a popular snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where vendors sell fish, dairy, baked goods, and seasonal produce; great for sampling fresh snacks.
Street-side stands offering smoked and fresh fish along the harbor promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Sveiki' (Hello) and use 'Paldies' (Thank you). Latvians value punctuality and direct, polite conversation.
Keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas; modest dress near religious sites; avoid loud behavior in queues.
Safety
Tipping in Ventspils
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping is common but not always expected; round up the bill or leave around 5-10% if service is good. In cafes and casual spots, a small tip is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still used, especially in markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, bright coastal light, and lively outdoor events; bring sun protection, swimwear, and light layers.
Mild to cool days with windy coastlines and colorful autumn foliage; expect rain and bring a light jacket.
Cold, windy, and sometimes snowy; many outdoor attractions are seasonal but the city looks magical with frost and ice; plan for indoor activities.
Warming weather with blooming landscapes and migrating birds; great for walking and wildlife watching.
Ventspils at Night
Hiking in Ventspils
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking route along the Venta River with viewpoints over the water and wetlands.
Forest and wetland loop with birdwatching opportunities and scenic boardwalks.
Easy-to-moderate walk along sandy dunes with sea views and pine forests.
Airports
How to reach Ventspils by plane.
Located about 60-70 km from Ventspils; offers seasonal regional flights and connections to Riga.
The main international gateway, about 190-210 km away by road; frequent long-haul and European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group; Russian-speaking residents and other communities also present.
A sizable portion of residents communicate in Russian; bilingual signs are common in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball has a strong following in Latvia and regional clubs attract local fans.
Local teams and amateur leagues are common; outdoor pitches are visible around the city.
A popular winter sport in Latvia with local leagues and enthusiastic supporters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ventspils.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose local salads, mushroom dishes, hearty soups, and dairy toppings; many places offer vegetarian options or can adjust plates. Consider asking for vegetable-based soups or mushroom dishes and confirm egg-free options where needed.