Ventspils Travel Guide

Planning your next vacation? Explore the hidden gem of Latvia, Ventspils. Read this comprehensive travel guide to know what to do, where to go and stay, and how to get there.


Ventspils, located in Kurzeme, Latvia, is a hidden gem that is yet to be discovered by many travelers. This vibrant port city offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. From untouched beaches to ancient castles, sand dunes to lighthouses, museums to art galleries, Ventspils has something for all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the best things to do, places to visit, and everything else you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Ventspils.

Introduction to Ventspils

Founded in the 13th century, Ventspils has a rich history and has been a critical port city for centuries. Today, it is a fast-growing city that has struck a balance between preserving its history and embracing the modern world. With its pristine beaches, scenic views, and stunning architecture, Ventspils welcomes visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Ventspils

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach bum, there’s plenty to explore in Ventspils. Here are the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ventspils Museum: Housed in a 17th-century Castle, the museum gives a glimpse of the history, culture, and way of life of the people of Ventspils.
  • Livonian Order Castle: A 13th-century castle that now houses a museum showcasing ancient weaponry, torture devices, and other historical artifacts.
  • Ventspils House of Crafts: Located in the old town of Ventspils, this place hosts artists and craftsmen and sells handmade products like ceramics, glass, and jewelry.

Natural Attractions of Ventspils: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ventspils Beach: Ventspils boasts one of the best beaches in Latvia, with crystal clear water and untouched sand stretching for miles.
  • Ventspils Seaside Open-Air Museum: A unique museum that introduces visitors to local fishing traditions and exhibits fishing boats and equipment used over the centuries.
  • Ventspils Adventure Park: An outdoor amusement park that offers exciting activities like ziplining, tree-top climbing, and hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ventspils

Ventspils is known for its scenic bike and hiking trails that stretch for miles along the Baltic coast. Some popular trails include:

  • Venta Rapid Trail: This circular hiking trail follows the winding path of the Venta River, offering stunning views of waterfalls and rapids.
  • Ventspils Bicycle Route: A 30-kilometer route that runs along the coastline, with breathtaking views of the sea, forests, and fields.

Best Things to Do in Ventspils: Activities and Tours

  • Ventspils Aquapark: A state-of-the-art indoor water park that offers fun activities for the whole family, including slides, pools, and saunas.
  • Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center: An astronomical facility that offers guided tours to learn about the cutting-edge astronomy research conducted here.
  • Ventspils Observation Tower: A 99-meter tall tower that offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ventspils

To make the most of your Ventspils trip, here is an itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in to hotel
Day 2 Visit Ventspils Museum and Livonian Order Castle
Day 3 Cycle along Ventspils Bicycle Route
Day 4 Visit the Seaside Open-Air Museum and Adventure Park
Day 5 Enjoy the beach and water activities at Ventspils Beach
Day 6 Visit House of Crafts and International Radio Astronomy Center
Day 7 Departure and farewell to Ventspils

Food and Drink Scene of Ventspils

No trip is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rasols: A traditional Latvian salad made from boiled potatoes, beets, eggs, and pickles.
  • Speķa pīrāgi: A savory pastry filled with bacon and onions.
  • Sklandrausis: A sweet pastry made with rye flour, carrots, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass: A traditional non-alcoholic drink made from rye bread.
  • Beer: Latvia is known for its craft beer, and Ventspils has some of the best breweries in the country.

Where to Stay in Ventspils: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ventspils has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some popular places to stay include:

  • Hotel Dzintarjūra: A cozy hotel located near the beach that offers comfortable rooms with beautiful sea views.
  • Hostel Podnieki: A budget-friendly hostel that provides clean and tidy dormitories and private rooms.
  • Guesthouse Laso: A family-friendly guesthouse located in the city center that offers spacious rooms and a peaceful garden.

What to Buy in Ventspils: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amber Jewelry: Ventspils is known for its exquisite amber jewelry, crafted from locally sourced amber.
  • Smoked Fish: Ventspils is a fishing town, and smoked fish is a popular souvenir among travelers.
  • Handmade Ceramics and Glass: House of Crafts offers handmade ceramics and glass products crafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Ventspils

Latvians have a rich culture and traditions that are still prevalent in Ventspils. When visiting the city, it’s essential to take note of the customs, including:

  • Respect for nature and cleanliness is essential in Latvia, and visitors are expected to adhere to it.
  • Latvians are reserved and value privacy, so it’s essential to respect personal space and boundaries.
  • The locals are proud of their history and heritage, and it’s important to show interest and respect in their culture.

Best Time to Visit Ventspils

The best time to visit Ventspils is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and the beach.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ventspils

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ventspils:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Enjoy the outdoors and the natural beauty of the city.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.
  • Don’t be too intrusive or invasive with locals.
  • Don’t ignore Latvian customs and traditions when visiting.

Safety and Health

Ventspils is a safe destination for travelers, and the city has a well-equipped healthcare system. However, it’s always essential to take basic precautions when traveling, including:

Safety in Ventspils

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid dark and isolated areas alone.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Always follow traffic rules and signals when driving or cycling.

Health in Ventspils

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water.
  • Wear sunscreen and protect yourself from sunlight.
  • Get adequate rest and stay hydrated during your stay.

Getting to Ventspils: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ventspils is easily accessible from major Latvian cities and neighboring countries. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Ventspils

  • Riga International Airport: Located 185 kilometers from Ventspils, the Riga airport offers several direct flights to international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Ventspils

  • Ventspils Bus Station: Located in the city center, the bus station offers daily buses to Riga and other Latvian cities.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station to Ventspils is in Liepāja, located 90 kilometers away.
  • Car: Ventspils is easily accessible by car, and several car rental services are available.

How to Get Around in Ventspils

Ventspils is a compact city, and walking is the best way to explore the city. Alternatively, cycling is also a popular option, and bicycle rentals are available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Ventspils: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ventspils is a great base to explore other nearby destinations, including:

  • Kuldīga: A picturesque town located 70 kilometers from Ventspils, famous for its cascading waterfalls and ancient architecture.
  • Liepāja: A vibrant city located 100 kilometers from Ventspils, known for its beautiful beaches and musical heritage.

Conclusion

Ventspils is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers. With its rich history, stunning nature, and delicious food, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure trip, Ventspils has it all. Book your trip today and explore this charming city in the heart of Latvia.

The port The port Castle of the Livonian Order Castle of the Livonian Order Lighthouse and breakwater of Ventspils Lighthouse and breakwater of Ventspils