7 days in Daugavpils, Latvia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Daugavpils, Latvia’s second-largest city, boasts a unique blend of cultural influences, fascinating history, and modern charm. With its vibrant mix of architectural styles, from grandiose Russian Empire-era buildings to minimalist Bauhaus and Soviet-era Brutalist architecture, Daugavpils is a colorful feast for the eyes. The city’s star attraction is the Daugavpils Fortress, a magnificent 19th-century fortress that now houses a variety of cultural and educational institutions. Add to the mix some fascinating museums, bustling markets, and a thriving art scene, and you’ve got yourself a city that truly has something for everyone.
Things to consider before arriving in Daugavpils
Affordable prices: Your wallet will thank you – Daugavpils is generally more affordable than many other European cities.
Multicultural atmosphere: The city’s diverse population makes for a vibrant and welcoming environment.
Language barriers: Not everyone speaks English, so learning a few basic Latvian or Russian phrases can be helpful.
Ideal for history and culture lovers: Anyone interested in exploring the intersection of various cultures and rich history will definitely enjoy their time in Daugavpils.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll want to stroll around the city, so make sure your feet are ready for action.
2. A phrasebook or translation app: As mentioned, not everyone speaks English, so having some language help will come in handy.
3. Weather-appropriate clothing: Latvia has a temperate climate, but it’s still good to be prepared for the weather during your visit.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to discover Daugavpils is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. The weather during this time is generally mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying its many festivals and events.
How to get into the city
1. By air: While Daugavpils doesn’t have an airport, you can fly into Riga International Airport and then take a train or bus to Daugavpils. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.
2. By train: Daugavpils is well-connected by train, with direct services from Riga and several other Latvian cities, as well as connections from Vilnius, Lithuania.
3. By bus: Bus services also connect Daugavpils with Riga, Vilnius, and other regional destinations. Buses are generally a more affordable option, but the journey may be a bit longer than by train.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Daugavpils, Latvia
Day 1 – Getting to Know the City
Start your day at the Unity Square and visit the Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Center. Take a walk around the Dubrovin Park and enjoy the scenery. For lunch, head over to the Pelmeni XL restaurant for some delicious local dumplings. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the Old Believer’s Cemetery and the Daugavpils Castle.
Day 2 – Forest Hiking Trip
Rent a car and take a 45-minute drive to the Anyksciai Regional Park in Lithuania for a hiking trip in the forest. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the scenic waterfalls. On your way back, stop by the Latgale Zoo to see the unique animal species of Latvia.
Day 3 – Sightseeing and Shopping
Head over to the St. Peter’s Church and climb the tower for a beautiful panoramic view of the city. Afterwards, visit the local open-air market to purchase unique souvenirs and locally grown produce. For lunch, try the Laivas Floating Restaurant for some fresh seafood.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Riga
Take a train to Latvia’s capital, Riga, for a day trip. Visit the Riga Old Town and the Art Nouveau district for some amazing architecture. Don’t miss the chance to try the black balsam, a traditional Latvian liquor, at the Black Magic Bar.
Day 5 – Relaxing Day at the Beach
Drive 30 minutes to the Ludza Lake and spend the day relaxing at the beach. Have a picnic lunch and rent a paddle boat to enjoy the views of the surrounding nature.
Day 6 – Cultural Experience
Visit the Daugavpils Synagogue and the Lutheranism Museum for a cultural experience. Enjoy some traditional Jewish dishes at the restaurant Klezmer.
Day 7 – Spa Day
Relax and unwind at the local SPA center in the morning. Have some pizza for lunch at the Trattoria Italiana. In the afternoon, visit the 18th Century Daugavpils Fortress for some history and sightseeing.
How to Continue Your Travel After You Have Spent 7 Days in Daugavpils
If you’re looking to continue your travels after spending 7 days in Daugavpils, I highly recommend visiting the following two nearby cities.
Jurmala
Located 2 hours from Daugavpils, Jurmala is a famous resort town on the Baltic Sea. Enjoy the beautiful beach, unique architecture, and walks in the pine forest. Don’t forget to try the local smoked fish!
Druskininkai
Located 3 hours from Daugavpils, Druskininkai is a popular spa town in Lithuania. Indulge in some pampering at the local spas, visit the Snow Arena for some skiing, and take a stroll through the Grutas Park, which has an outdoor Soviet sculpture museum.
