9-Day Latvia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Riga traveling east to Alūksne and Daugavpils

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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Riga.

Riga National Zoological Garden is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lucavsala Recreational Park, another must-visit landmark and beloved park renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Riga by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Riga Central Market. This instagrammable market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Riga experience. We also recommend visiting Memorial To Anna Wöhrmann, a notable park. Nearby, you'll also find Esplanāde, ready to add charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Latvia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Riga by booking a table at Milda. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Max Cekot Kitchen, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Shōyu, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing japanese and ramen menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kafejnīca, Bārs Ezītis Miglā stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Funny Fox Sports, Karaoke Pub/bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. "folkklubs Ala Pagrabs" (folk Club Ala Cellar) is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Riga. You’ll stay in Riga for 2 nights.

Whether you decide to explore Riga on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Riga Motor Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Riga. Next, head to House Of The Black Heads, an underrated historical landmark, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Latvian National Opera House. This enchanting opera house is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Freedom Monument and Bastejkalna Park Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Latvia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Riga. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Cuba Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Riviera boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Burga. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Riga.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Klondaika, known for its lively atmosphere. Rīgas Skaņu Fabrika is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Aleponija offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Riga and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Latvia.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Latvia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Riga, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Ogre, Bauska, Pilsrundāle, and Mežotne.

After soaking in Ogre’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bauska. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Bauska, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Bauska Castle Museum, a worthwhile castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pilsrundāle may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Pilsrundāle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Pilsrundāle is Rundāle Palace, a well-known palace that draws attention for its romantic features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Riga. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pētergailis, restorāns, 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 Brother 2, pub, Sakozols, 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 Tiki Bar Riga, a hidden gem nestled in Riga. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at "vakars Uz Ezera", ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Shot Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Armoury Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Latvia!

On day 5 of your road trip in Latvia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Sigulda and Cēsis are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alūksne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cēsis may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Cēsis, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Turaida Castle, an often recommended castle that everyone visiting Sigulda should see. Next, head to Sigulda Castle. This romantic castle is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sigulda and set your GPS to Cēsis. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 42 min. Upon reaching Cēsis, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Gauja National Park, an interesting national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Cēsis and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cēsis beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Cēsis is Cēsis Castle, an intriguing park that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cēsis Castle, a history-steeped castle that stands out in the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Alūksne. Alūksne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Alūksne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Alūksne.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at TVAIKS x OGLE burger restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Alūksnes alus Biznesa stacijā? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Jaunsetas as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alūksne.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Latvia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Aglona. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Daugavpils, where will spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Alūksne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aglona. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Aglona, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Aglona is Aglona Bread Museum, a frequently visited museum that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to War Museum Aglona / Ww2 Museum, a heritage-rich military museum that stands out in the village.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Basilica Of The Assumption Of Blessed Virgin Mary, Aglona, a beloved church that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Daugavpils. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Daugavpils's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Odesa Mamma, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Satori is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hesburger. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Daugavpils tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Klondaika (cietokšņa) after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Ezītis Miglā, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Artilērijas Pagrabi also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Latvia!

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Riga. You’ll stay in Daugavpils for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Daugavpils Tarzāns and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Esplanādes Parks, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dubrovin Park, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Latgale Zoo. When you're finished at the zoo, Daugavpils Fortress awaits your visit. This historical landmark is an instagrammable highlight on today's itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Latvia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Daugavpils is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Daugavpils.

Make sure to reserve a table at Happy Panda, an iconic dining spot in Daugavpils. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gubernators, a popular restaurant in Daugavpils. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Gastrobars Yoggi Bear, a hidden gem nestled in Daugavpils. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Klondaika, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Latvia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Daugavpils and Koknese. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Riga, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Shmakovka Museum. This beloved museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Central Park located in Daugavpils for another exciting encounter.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Daugavpils, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Koknese. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Likteņdārzs. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Koknese Castle Ruins. This underrated castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Da Roberta, a popular restaurant in Riga. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Riga at Zaļais dārzs, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated LIDO Alus sēta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Riga tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Spot Kafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Aussie Backpackers Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Wine Studio is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Riga and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Latvia.