Karosta Prison: A Chilling Journey into Latvia's Dark Past
Explore the haunting history of Karosta Prison in Liepāja, Latvia – a former military prison turned unique tourist attraction.
Karosta Prison, located in Liepāja, Latvia, is a former military prison that stands as a haunting reminder of the country's turbulent 20th century. Built around 1900, it served as a disciplinary facility under Tsarist Russia, the Soviet Union, and Nazi Germany. Today, it's open to tourists offering guided tours, extreme overnight stays, and immersive experiences.
A brief summary to Karosta Prison
- Invalīdu iela 4, Liepāja, 3402, LV
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak season, to ensure availability.
- Consider participating in the 'Behind Bars' show or spending a night in the prison for a truly immersive experience.
- Dress warmly, as the prison can be cold and damp, especially outside of the summer months.
- Check the opening hours and tour schedules, as they vary depending on the season.
- Take bus 22 from Peter's Market to get to Karosta Prison from Liepaja.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Liepāja city center, the easiest way to reach Karosta Prison is by bus. Take bus number 22 from the stop at Peter's Market in the city center. The bus will take you directly to Karosta. From the Karosta bus stop, it is a short walk to the prison at Invalīdu iela 4. A single bus fare is approximately €1-2. Check the local bus schedule for up-to-date timings.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Liepāja. A taxi ride from the city center to Karosta Prison will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is around €7-12. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt are also available.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, it is possible to walk from Liepāja city center to Karosta Prison. The distance is approximately 4 kilometers and will take about 1.5 hours. Follow the main road north towards Karosta, and then turn onto Invalīdu iela. Be aware that the walk is quite long, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Discover more about Karosta Prison
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Karosta Water Tower
0.7 km
Explore the historic Karosta Water Tower in Liepāja, a unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary art in a landmark setting.
Ziemeļu forts
2.3 km
Discover the haunting beauty of Liepāja's Ziemeļu Forts, a coastal defense relic offering history and stunning Baltic Sea views.
Liepāja Lighthouse
3.7 km
Explore Liepāja Lighthouse, a historic gem on the Baltic coast, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views in Latvia's enchanting city of Liepāja.
Redāns
3.9 km
Explore Redāns, a historic fortress in Liepāja's Karosta, and witness the echoes of Latvia's fight for independence.
Monument For The Fishermen And Sailors Lost At Sea
4.5 km
A solemn monument in Liepāja's Seaside Park honoring lost seafarers and a downed US aircraft, reflecting the city's maritime heritage.
Mirdzas Ķempes pieminekļa laukums
4.6 km
A peaceful square in Liepāja honoring the life and work of Latvian poet Mirdza Ķempe, featuring a monument and nearby graffiti art.
Northern fort
4.9 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Liepāja's Northern Fort, a 19th-century coastal defense battery on the Baltic Sea.
Artillery battery No.1 (Northern Fort)
5.0 km
Explore the historic Artillery Battery No. 1 in Liepāja: where military history meets striking coastal scenery and urban art.
Liepaja seaside park
5.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Liepaja Seaside Park, a coastal gem perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Liepaja city's eastern border
5.1 km
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Liepajas Southern Forts
7.6 km
Discover Liepaja's Southern Forts: Where military history meets coastal scenery. Explore fortifications, enjoy sea views, and delve into Latvia's heritage.
Liepaja city's southern border Южная граница города
7.8 km
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Grobiņa Castle
8.8 km
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Durbes kaujas vieta
21.5 km
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Pūsēnu kāpa
24.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Former Army Gymnastics Hall
0.6 km
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Lāčplēša dārzs
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Lāčplēša Dārzs in Liepāja, Latvia – a lush park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and cultural events.
The Naval Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas
0.9 km
Discover the stunning Naval Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, a magnificent blend of spirituality and architecture in Liepāja, Latvia.
Karostas zemūdeņu angārs
1.0 km
Explore the intriguing history of Karostas zemūdeņu angārs in Liepāja, a former submarine base blending military significance with stunning coastal landscapes.
Pazemes angārs
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Pazemes angārs in Liepāja, where history and mystery intertwine beneath the city streets.
Северный мол Военного городка Karostas ziemeļu mols
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at the Northern Mole of Karosta in Liepāja, a must-visit tourist attraction along the Baltic Sea.
Karostas dienvidu mols
1.6 km
Discover the stunning Karostas Dienvidu Mols in Liepāja, a serene coastal escape with rich maritime history and breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.
Baskāju taka (barefoot trail)
1.7 km
Discover the unique experience of walking barefoot at Baskāju Taka, a beautiful trail in Liepāja, Latvia, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Kazu Park
1.8 km
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Liepāja Northern Breakwater
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of the Liepāja Northern Breakwater, a must-visit coastal attraction in Latvia.
Sadalošais mols
2.1 km
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Artillery battery No.3
2.4 km
Discover the historical significance of Artillery Battery No.3 in Liepāja, a fortress steeped in military history with stunning coastal views.
Raiņa Park
2.8 km
Explore the tranquility of Raiņa Park in Liepāja, Latvia, a serene state park perfect for leisure, recreation, and natural beauty.
Liepajas Ziemelu Mols Final Point
3.2 km
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Recreational area of Liepaja lake
3.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Kavkaz House
0.9 km
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Daily lunch restaurant
1.2 km
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Senču Nams
2.1 km
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O!Bistro Liepāja
2.7 km
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Street Burgers (Liepājas burgernīca)
3.5 km
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Oskars
3.6 km
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Spīķeris
3.7 km
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Zivju restorāns Boroffish
3.8 km
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Fontaine Delisnack
3.8 km
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House Of Food Diner
3.8 km
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MO Liepāja
3.8 km
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Piano , restorans
3.8 km
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Rita's margarita
3.8 km
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Maestro Design Hotel
3.9 km
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Valhalla Wine & Coffee, kafejnīca
3.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lats
0.2 km
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Karosta , SIA
0.7 km
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Dvini S. Grocery store
0.9 km
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Aibe
1.0 km
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Naktinsh. Grocery store
1.2 km
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Knia , SIA
1.2 km
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Beta
1.3 km
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Alpha Rap
1.5 km
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konstruktors.lv
1.5 km
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top!
1.6 km
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Magija Lingerie, sieviešu apakšveļas ražotne Liepājā
1.8 km
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Orhideja dāmu veļas ražotne, SIA Lokis
2.1 km
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Zoo Veikals
2.1 km
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R.D.A.
2.1 km
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Gatve , veikals
2.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sporta bārs un spēļu zāle Joker Liepājā, O. Kalpaka ielā
2.0 km
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Sporta bārs un spēļu zāle Joker Liepājā, Pīlādžu ielā
3.2 km
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Loms, bārs
3.4 km
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Bar Bruno
3.6 km
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53 Liepaja Old Port
3.7 km
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Fontaine Palace Club
3.8 km
Fontaine Palace Club: A hub of nightlife, live music, and culinary delights in the heart of Liepāja.
WOOD STOCK cocktail bar
3.8 km
Experience the best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at WOOD STOCK cocktail bar in Liepāja, where every drink tells a story.
Kursas Putni
3.8 km
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Fontaine Gypsy Camp
3.9 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Fontaine Gypsy Camp, Liepāja's premier destination for grilled cuisine and lively ambiance.
DAJANA COLLECTION PARTY ARENA LIEPAJA
3.9 km
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Miezis & Kompānija
3.9 km
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Blaķene Barber Shop Bārs
4.0 km
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Elpub
4.1 km
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Wiktorija
4.1 km
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Cukurfabrik' club / grill bar
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Liepāja at Cukurfabrik, where delicious bar and grill cuisine meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
