One-Week Latvia Road Trip from Riga traveling east to Rezekne and Daugavpils

Your road trip adventure in Latvia begins as soon as you reach Riga and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Riga for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Riga is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Latvian National Opera House or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Riga. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Latvia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Riga. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Begin your culinary exploration in Riga by securing a reservation at Milda. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Max Cekot Kitchen, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Shōyu, a top local spot known for its tantalizing japanese and ramen menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kafejnīca, bārs Ezītis miglā, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs" (Folk club ALA cellar) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Armoury Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Latvia!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Riga has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Riga by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Bastejkalna Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,899 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Freedom Monument. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,894 visitors, this monument deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Memorial to Anna Wöhrmann. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,690 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Esplanāde. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,941 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Riga National Zoological Garden. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,386 travelers, this zoo is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Riga.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Latvia that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Riga has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Latvia by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Riga. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Pētergailis, restorāns, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Da Roberta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at LIDO Alus sēta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Riga tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Aussie Backpackers Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Andalūzijas Suns, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Skyline bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Latvia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Latvia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Riga for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Riga and Cēsis.

Make Dome Square one of your first sightseeing stops in Riga. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,480 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Riga Motor Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,789 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cēsis. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cēsis Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle ruin an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,537 reviews.

Cēsis Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle ruin is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,538 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cēsis. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gauja National Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,953 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Riga.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Riga. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Province restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Šašliki, Grilbārs is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Avotu Ezītis miglā. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Riga tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Alus Muiža, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Lokāls Veldze offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Latvia!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Riga, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Riga, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bauska may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Bauska, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bauska Castle Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,435 reviews.

Rīgas Motormuzeja Bauskas filiāle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 696 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pilsrundāle. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rundāle Palace. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,486 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Pilsrundāle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Mežotne. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mežotne hillfort. This hillfort is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 315 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Riga and your accommodation.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Riga.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fazenda Bazārs, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Taškenta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Gastro Pub Duvel's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Riga.

Say good night to Riga and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Latvia!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Latvia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lielvārde, Jaunjelgava, and Koknese. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rezekne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lielvārde, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Riga to Lielvārde may take around 1 hour without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lielvārde, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lielvārde Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 813 visitors.

After soaking in Lielvārde’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Jaunjelgava. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Jaunjelgava, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Skrīveri Arboretum Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 576 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Rezekne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rezekne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kafejnīca "CahuR", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mājas Virtuve? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at LAIVU MĀJA as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rezekne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Olympic Casino, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Joker sporta bārs un spēļu zāle Rēzeknē, Upes ielā 34a offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rezekne. IGGI bārs&karbonādes is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Latvia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Latvia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ludza, Aglona, and Preiļi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Daugavpils, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ludza, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aglona may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Aglona, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ludza Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ludza, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,227 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aglona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basilica of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary, Aglona, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,422 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Aglona Bread Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 817 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Daugavpils, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Daugavpils.

Savor the flavors at Odesa Mamma, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hesburger beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Happy Panda. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Daugavpils tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Klondaika (Cietokšņa), a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Ezītis Miglā, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Artilērijas Pagrabi likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Latvia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip in Latvia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Daugavpils and Jēkabpils. In the evening, you’ll end up in Riga, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Dubrovin park one of your first sightseeing stops in Daugavpils. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,414 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Latgale Zoo is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,125 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Daugavpils fortress. This fortress has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,834 visitors.

Set your GPS to Jēkabpils and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jēkabpils beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Krustpils Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Jēkabpils, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 933 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Riga. Riga offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Riga, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Open-Air Leisure Park EGLE, an iconic dining spot in Riga. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fabrikas Restorāns, a popular restaurant in Riga. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of LIDO Vērmanītis, a hidden gem nestled in Riga. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Latvia!

Day 8 of your road trip in Latvia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Riga before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Latvia unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Riga’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Latvia. Keep the spirit of your trip to Latvia alive with these special souvenirs.

Journey into the unknown at Riga Central Market, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable market hall has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 46,344 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Latvia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Riga.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at LIDO Krievu sēta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try LIDO? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Riga. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Latvia!