7 days in Latvia: Riga, Gauja and the coast
This first-trip route keeps Riga as the arrival base, adds one Gauja-area stay and uses the final day for a coast or city choice that matches the forecast.
This guide is independently written and checked against the official sources listed below.
Timetables, opening hours, access rules and event programmes can change. Confirm date-specific details with the official operator or venue.
Days 1 to 3: Riga
Use the first afternoon to settle in, then group Old Town, central markets, museums and the riverfront across two full days.
Riga city guide
Choose neighbourhoods, indoor alternatives and practical walking clusters.
Open guide3 days in Riga
Follow the detailed capital sequence.
Open guideSources: RIX Riga Airport: transport , Rīgas satiksme
Days 4 and 5: Sigulda or Cēsis
Choose Sigulda for a compact first Gauja Valley base or Cēsis for a slower historic-town stay. Do not try to give both towns equal depth in one rushed day.
Sigulda
Castles, viewpoints and trail choices close to a rail-connected town.
Open guideCēsis
A medieval centre that works well as an overnight regional base.
Open guideSources: Vivi passenger information
Day 6: Choose the coast
Return towards Riga and choose Jūrmala for the simplest rail day, or keep the day in the Gauja area if wind or rain makes the coast less appealing.
Jūrmala
Check the station that matches the beach or town area you want.
Open guideLatvia weather
Compare the official destination forecasts before deciding.
Open guideSources: Vivi passenger information
Day 7: departure margin
Keep the final day close to Riga unless your departure time safely allows another stop. Confirm airport and city transport on the day.
Sources: RIX Riga Airport: transport , Rīgas satiksme
Official sources and review information
This guide was last reviewed on 26 July 2026. The official sources below support the route, transport and visitor guidance on this page.