Courland, Latvia Travel Guide

Discover Courland: Latvia's coastal treasure with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Nestled in the western part of Latvia, Courland is a region brimming with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural richness. Known for its stunning coastline along the Baltic Sea, Courland offers serene beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and lush forests. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. Courland is also steeped in history, boasting numerous castles, manors, and ancient ruins. The Dundaga Castle and the Aizpute Castle are must-visit sites for history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the region's storied past. Additionally, the town of Kuldīga, with its charming cobblestone streets and the Venta Rapid, Europe’s widest waterfall, is a highlight that showcases the blend of natural and architectural beauty. Cultural experiences abound in Courland, with local festivals, traditional crafts, and culinary delights waiting to be explored. The region is known for its smoked fish, delicious pastries, and locally brewed beers. Whether you're wandering through the markets, attending a folk music festival, or simply enjoying the local hospitality, Courland provides an authentic Latvian experience that is both enriching and memorable.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Courland.

Visit Kuldīga in spring or summer for the best weather and to see the Venta Rapid at its most impressive.
Try the local smoked fish and pastries at the markets for an authentic taste of Courland’s cuisine.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as many attractions are best explored on foot.
Learn a few basic Latvian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your experience.
Check out local festivals, especially folk music and dance events, to immerse yourself in the region's culture.

Top City Travel Guides in Courland

The cities of Courland, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Jurmala

Kuldiga

Liepaja

Ventspils

Talsi

Destinations in Courland

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Riga Bay

Jūrmala

Kuldīga

Liepāja

Explore Courland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Venta waterfall

Explore the majestic Venta Waterfall in Kuldīga, Latvia, a stunning natural preserve perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

4.9

Ēdole castle

Experience the charm of Ēdole Castle, a stunning medieval fortress surrounded by lush landscapes and rich history in Latvia.

4.6

Riezupe Sand Caves

Explore the Riezupe Sand Caves, a captivating natural wonder in Latvia, revealing stunning formations and a serene underground adventure.

4.7

Kuldiga District Museum

Explore Kuldiga's rich cultural heritage at the Kuldiga District Museum, where history and art come together in a charming setting.

4.8

Best landmarks in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Rundāle Palace Museum

Experience the grandeur of Rundāle Palace Museum, Latvia's Baroque masterpiece, rich in history, art, and stunning gardens.

4.7

Art Nouveau building

Experience Riga's Art Nouveau splendor at Alberta iela 13, a masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture and design.

4.7

Gauja National Park

Explore Latvia's Gauja National Park: Nature, history, and adventure await in this stunning protected landscape.

4.7

House of the Black Heads

Explore Riga's Hanseatic history at the House of the Black Heads, a stunningly reconstructed landmark in the heart of Old Town.

4.6

Best restaurants in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Rozengrāls (Vinarium civitatis rigensis)

Experience medieval charm and exquisite Latvian cuisine at Rozengrāls in the heart of Riga's Central District.

4.5

Pētergailis, restorāns

Discover the culinary delights at Pētergailis - where modern cuisine meets Latvian tradition in a vibrant setting.

4.7

Restaurant Bermudas

Discover Restaurant Bermudas: A top-rated seafood haven in Ragaciems offering fresh flavors and stunning coastal views.

4.7

Province restaurant

Experience the essence of Latvian cuisine at Province Restaurant - where families gather to enjoy delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

Best bars in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Ala Pagrabs

Experience the essence of Latvia at Ala Pagrabs, a restaurant and bar offering authentic cuisine and vibrant atmosphere in Rīga's Central District.

4.6

The Armoury Bar

Discover the enchanting Armoury Bar in Riga, where history and modern leisure intertwine, offering a unique drinking experience.

4.6

Aussie Backpackers Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Riga at Aussie Backpackers Pub, where travelers meet, drinks flow, and unforgettable memories are made.

4.5

KIWI SPORTS PUB/BAR

Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Rīga at KIWI Sports Pub/Bar, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

FIRST Club

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Riga at FIRST Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every weekend.

3.4

Royal Club

Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife at Royal Club, Riga's premier destination for unforgettable dancing and entertainment.

4.1

Valhalla

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Riga at Valhalla Night Club, where eclectic music and an energetic atmosphere await every night.

2.9

Coyote Fly

Discover Coyote Fly, a vibrant night club in Riga, where electrifying music meets stylish ambiance for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

3.6

Best shops in Courland

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Riga Central Market

Discover the flavors and vibrancy of Latvia at Riga Central Market, a cultural gem in the heart of Riga offering local delicacies and unique crafts.

4.3

AKROPOLE Rīga

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at AKROPOLE Rīga, the premier shopping destination in Latvia.

4.5

Akropole Alfa, iepirkšanās centrs

Discover the ultimate shopping destination in Riga at Akropole Alfa, where retail therapy meets entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

TC Spice

Experience shopping like never before at TC Spice, Riga's premier shopping destination offering a blend of luxury, dining, and entertainment.

4.5

Explore Courland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Courland, mapped for you.

Courland Essentials

Courland, located in western Latvia, is accessible via several means. The nearest international airport is Riga International Airport (RIX), situated approximately 200 kilometers away from the heart of Courland. From Riga, you can take a bus or train to major towns such as Liepāja and Ventspils. Buses are more frequent and offer direct routes, while trains provide a scenic journey through the Latvian countryside. Car rentals are also available at Riga Airport for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
Within Courland, the primary modes of transportation include buses, taxis, and car rentals. Buses connect major towns and smaller villages, with regular services that are both reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Car rentals provide the most flexibility for exploring remote areas and hidden gems. Bicycles are also a popular choice for getting around, especially in the summer months, with rental stations available in larger towns.
The official currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly when traveling to smaller towns and rural areas where card facilities may be limited. ATMs are available in urban centers like Liepāja, Ventspils, and Kuldīga, so withdrawing cash is convenient. Currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange offices.
Courland is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables and be vigilant in crowded places. Liepāja and Ventspils are safe cities, but it's wise to avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas and public transport. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Major towns in Courland have hospitals and clinics equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical costs. Pharmacies are available in urban areas and offer over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It’s also a good idea to carry a basic first-aid kit.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate. Offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Labdien' (Good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Courland like a local, visit the traditional markets in towns like Liepāja and Kuldīga, where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the annual festivals, such as the Liepāja Summer Sound music festival and the Kuldīga Town Festival. For a unique experience, explore the serene beaches of the Baltic coast and the picturesque landscapes of the Slītere National Park.

When is the best time to visit Courland?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Courland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Courland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSveiki
  [sveh-kee]
- GoodbyeUz redzēšanos
  [ooz reh-deh-zha-nos]
- YesJā
  [yah]
- NoNē
  [neh]
- Please/You're welcomeLūdzu
  [lood-zoo]
- Thank youPaldies
  [pahl-dyehs]
- Excuse me/SorryAtvainojiet
  [aht-vai-noh-yeht]
- How are you?Kā tev klājas?
  [kah tehv klah-yahs]
- Fine. And you?Labi. Un tu?
  [lah-bee. oon too?]
- Do you speak English?Vai tu runā angliski?
  [vai too roo-nah ahn-glees-kee]
- I don't understandEs nesaprotu
  [es neh-sah-proh-too]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEs gribētu redzēt ēdienkarti, lūdzu
  [es gree-bah-too reh-dzeht eh-dee-en-kahr-tee, lood-zoo]
- I don't eat meatEs neēdu gaļu
  [es neh-eh-doo gah-loo]
- Cheers!Priekā!
  [pre-kah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEs gribētu samaksāt, lūdzu
  [es gree-bah-too sah-mahk-saht, lood-zoo]
- Help!Palīdziet!
  [pah-leed-zee-et]
- Go away!Ej prom!
  [ay prohm]
- Call the Police!Zvaniet policijai!
  [zvah-nee-et poh-lee-tsee-yai]
- Call a doctor!Zvaniet ārstam!
  [zvah-nee-et ahr-stahm]
- I'm lostEs esmu apmaldījies
  [es es-moo ahp-mahl-dee-yies]
- I'm illEs esmu slims
  [es es-moo sleems]
- I'd like to buy...Es gribētu nopirkt...
  [es gree-bah-too noh-peer-kt]
- I'm just lookingEs tikai skatījos
  [es tee-kai skah-tee-yohs]
- How much is it?Cik tas maksā?
  [tsik tahs mak-sah]
- That's too expensiveTas ir pārāk dārgi
  [tahs eer pah-rahk dahr-gee]
- Can you lower the price?Vai tu vari samazināt cenu?
  [vai too vah-ree sah-mah-zee-naht tseh-noo]
- What time is it?Cik ir pulkstens?
  [tsik eer poolk-stens]
- It's one o'clockIr viens pulkstens
  [eer vyens poolk-stens]
- Half past (10)Pusstundas (10)
  [poos-stoon-dahs (10)]
- MorningRīts
  [reetz]
- AfternoonPēcpusdiena
  [pehp-poos-dee-eh-nah]
- EveningVakars
  [vah-kahrs]
- YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
- TodayŠodien
  [shoh-dyehn]
- TomorrowRīt
  [reet]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Kur ir ...?
  [koor eer ...?]
- What's the address?Kāda ir adrese?
  [kah-dah eer ah-dre-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Vai tu vari parādīt (uz kartes)?
  [vai too vah-ree pah-rah-deet (ooz kahr-tes)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kad ir nākamais (autobuss)?
  [kadh eer nah-kah-myhs (ow-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Biļete (uz ....)
  [bih-lyeh-teh (ooz ....)]

History of Courland

The Duchy of Courland and Semigallia was established in 1561 as a vassal state of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and later, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. It was a period marked by economic prosperity and maritime expansion. The duchy even managed to establish colonies in Tobago and Gambia during the 17th century, becoming one of the smallest nations to engage in overseas colonization.
Courland's strategic location made it a battleground for larger powers, particularly Sweden and Russia. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, it saw numerous conflicts, including the Polish-Swedish War and the Great Northern War. These wars significantly impacted the region's stability and economy.
In 1795, during the third partition of Poland, Courland was annexed by the Russian Empire. This marked the end of the independent Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. Under Russian rule, Courland became a part of the Courland Governorate. The region experienced Russification policies but retained a distinct cultural identity.
During World War I, Courland was occupied by German forces. The frontlines in the region were significant, leading to considerable destruction and displacement. The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk in 1918 temporarily gave Germany control over Courland, but this was short-lived as Germany's defeat in the war led to new political changes.
Following World War I and the collapse of empires, Courland became part of the newly independent Republic of Latvia in 1918. The interwar period was a time of national consolidation and cultural revival. Latvia made significant strides in education, agriculture, and infrastructure during this period.
World War II brought profound changes to Courland. Initially occupied by Soviet forces in 1940, the region was then taken by Nazi Germany in 1941, only to be reoccupied by the Soviets in 1944. The Courland Pocket was a notable site of resistance by German forces until the end of the war in 1945. Post-war, Courland became part of the Latvian SSR under Soviet rule.
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Latvia regained its independence in 1991. Courland, along with the rest of Latvia, embarked on a journey of political, economic, and cultural restoration. The region has since been an integral part of the independent Republic of Latvia, contributing to its rich history and diverse cultural heritage.