Desmond Kavanagh on flickr

Latvia is a small country on the Baltic Sea with ancient history and traditions. There are many interesting tourist sights which will attract everyone. If you want to enjoy nature - there is not only the serene Gulf of Riga and the open Baltic Sea, but also nature parks, fast rivers and lakes with  beautiful forests on the shores. Those who are interested in history will be fascinated by the medieval castles and culture of the ancient Latvians. If you are interested not only in entertainment but also in gaining new knowledge and information you are welcome to visit Old Riga, where you will find not only fabulous architectural monuments but also various night clubs and pubs. There are many beautiful churches in Latvia - both ancient and modern. There is a wide range of relaxation,health rehabilitation and outdoor recreation possibilities. And of course, don’t forget to make inquiries about  events that are going to take place during your stay in Latvia. There is the possibility for you to enjoy the traditional Latvian celebrations, different cultural events and entertaining programs throughout the year.

Latvia is the country where you can enjoy your trip - come with the tourist group or have a nice time together with your family. You can have a variety of choices from taking a number of exciting tours to spending several weeks in the guesthouse near a river or lake, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. This web page will help you to get to know Latvia and it will help you to choose the best pastime to suit your mood and make the most of your trip to Latvia.

 

Climate

Spring, J.Graysen on flickr

(Spring) The beginning of spring is considered the period when the day’s average temperature rises and remains above 0^oC. When the snow is starting to melt, when the rivers are breaking free after long months of confinement under the thick layer of ice, the nature is awaking. In the southern part of Latvia the arrival of spring is observed around March 20. Gradually it advances upwards. Arrival of the spring in the northeastern part of Latvia takes place later than in other parts of Latvia. During this season the amount of precipitations is smaller than during any other season. Anticyclone prevails. In May there is the smallest amount of precipitation and moreover, it is the sunniest month of the year. The gradual rise of temperatures can be suddenly changed by the sudden drops in temperatures, precipitation, often in the form of snow, which is the result of cold arctic air streams.

 (Summer) Summer is the warmest season of the year, when nature's processes are more active. Summer begins in the mid of June, when the apple-trees and lilac bushes have finished blossoming, and the day’s average temperature remains above 15^oC. On June 21 the sun is at its highest above the horizon and it is the longest day of the year. The temperatures are gradually starting to rise, and they reach their peak in July, and on the coast even in August. Changes in weather conditions are determined by cyclones and anticyclones. While anticyclone remains, southerly and southeastern winds bring warm and dry temperatures. The weather continues to be fair and warm. In this period the daytime air temperatures reach their peak when they occasionally exceed 30^oC. For the second half of the summer cyclones bring humid air masses from the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea. Normally they  form in July and August.

 (Autumn) First frost means that the autumn has arrived. It is first noticed in the beginning of September in the northeastern part of Latvia. Then it will gradually spread all through the territory of Latvia, reaching the coastal area only by the end of September. In the same way a little bit later the day’s average temperature will drop -10^oC below zero - the period of active vegetation is over. In the second half of November autumn gradually turns into winter. The weather conditions in autumn are determined by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic sea. The character of autumn is defined by cyclones and anticyclones. In the autumn months the cyclone activity is observed. From the Atlantic Ocean cyclones bring cloudy weather, often precipitations. The rainy period is changed by the sleety weather - rain and snow. In autumn there can be a period of clear and sunny weather, which is called “The Indian Summer”. Normally it is determined by anticyclone, when from the south and from the southeast in the end of September or in the beginning of October warm continental air streams flow. Day temperatures can reach as high as 20^oC. You can see the flocks of geese, cranes and other birds in the sky. Birds begin to migrate to warmer climates to avoid cold.

Riga winter,savvatij7 on flickr

 (Winter) Winter begins when the day’s average temperature drops and remains below 0^oC. Lakes and reservoirs are getting frozen, the topsoil is getting frozen too and the ground is covered by the layer of snow. Normally it snows for the first time in the mid of November in the northeastern part of Latvia. The weather in winter, like in autumn, is determined by the frequent cyclones. Their influence causes temperature differences between the western and the eastern Latvia. In winter daytime air temperatures normally range between +5^oC and -10^oC. In the littoral area, as well as in the eastern Latvia, temperatures are dropping even lower. If the cyclones bring warm maritime winds, the thaw begins. More often thaws are observed in the littoral area and in general everywhere in Kurzeme. In warm winters thaws can be observed everywhere in the country. Moving across the cyclones, big temperature differences occur between the topsoil and the air from the upper layers, and as a result of that the mist develops. The increased humidity in the air causes the formation of hoarfrost. Cold weather sets in with the arrival of anticyclone. The eastern and northeastern winds prevail, thus, bringing in Latvia arctic continental air. In clear winter nights temperatures can drop as low as -25^oC and even lower.

 

Riga

The Freedom Monument ,shertila

Napoleon once called Riga a "suburb of London" where the traditions of many nations crossed their paths. A legend tells that once every hundred years the Devil pokes out his head from the waters of the Daugava River and asks if Riga is ready. If he hears "Yes", then when the city celebrates its 800 years-anniversary in 2001 it will inevitably sink into the river Daugava. For this reason, Riga must be built continuously and become more beautiful with each year. If you do not believe this, come and have a look! Riga with 806 thousand inhabitants has more big-city attractions than any other city in the Baltic States. Situated the mouth of the Daugava River, on the shores of the Riga Gulf of the Baltic Sea, Riga has excellent air, rail and road connections, which makes it a major tourist attraction in the country. Riga is rich in history, culture and diverse entertainments. Visitors can admire buildings of remarkable Gothic, Baroque, Classicism and Art Nouveau architecture. This variety and richness of styles has been recognised by experts of the United Nations Organization and in 1997 the Central part of Riga was included into the UNESCO World Heritage List as:
1) one of the world largest and best preserved assemblages of the Art Nouveau buildings,
2) a city with  architecture that reflects various periods  of  city history from 1201 to the present day,
3) a city with a unique collection of wooden architecture in the central city area.

Riga,Annechka on flickr

Riga traditionally has been the trade and business connection between East and West. It had joined the Hanseatic League in 1282 and was an active partner until the League disintegrated about three hundred years later. Riga is destined to become a commercial and tourist centre in the coming decades. In a few years it ought to compete favourably, on a smaller scale, with Prague, Paris and other gems. Riga has a lively cultural life. The Dome Church acoustics, as well as its huge organ are world-wide famous. The frequent organ concerts there are also worth attending Riga stages a variety of festivals, (especially in summer) ranging from the classical music, and opera to jazz and rock. Riga offers a great number of fascinating museums and contemporary art galleries.