Jekabpils Travel Guide

Explore the best tourist attractions, food scene, accommodations, and travel tips in Jekabpils, Latvia with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Jekabpils

Jekabpils is a city located in the Zemgale region of Latvia, one of the three Baltic states in Europe. Situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Daugava and the Lielupe, Jekabpils is known for its scenic views and outdoor activities. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage that visitors can explore through its museums, landmarks, and festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Jekabpils

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jekabpils Museum of Local History and Art – learn about the history and culture of Jekabpils through its exhibits of local artifacts and artworks.
  • Jekabpils Castle Ruins – explore the ancient ruins and ramparts of the 14th-century castle that once stood in Jekabpils.
  • Kuzmicki Memorial Museum – discover the life and work of the famous Latvian poet and writer Rainis, who was born in Jekabpils.

Natural Attractions of Jekabpils: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Krasta Park – enjoy a relaxing stroll or a picnic in this picturesque park overlooking the Daugava River.
  • Jekabpils Beach – soak up some sun or take a swim in the refreshing waters of the Daugava River.
  • Daugavas Loki Nature Park – experience the stunning natural landscapes of Jekabpils through hiking, cycling, or canoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jekabpils

For outdoor enthusiasts, Jekabpils offers several scenic hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Daugavas Loki Nature Park Trail – a 55km trail that runs through the forest, hills, and meadows of the nature park.
  • Krasta Park Trail – an easy, 2km trail that winds along the Daugava River and through the park’s verdant surroundings.
  • Jekabpils-Plavinu Bicycle Route – a 28km trail that starts in Jekabpils and ends in Plavinu, passing by many natural and cultural landmarks along the way.

Best Things to Do in Jekabpils: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s attractions, visitors can also try the following activities and tours:

  • Canoeing and Kayaking on the Daugava River – experience the thrill of river sports while enjoying the scenic views of Jekabpils.
  • Jekabpils Adventure Park – challenge yourself with high ropes, zip lines, and other obstacles in this thrilling adventure park.
  • City Walking Tour – discover the hidden gems and secrets of Jekabpils through a guided tour of its streets, alleys, and squares.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jekabpils

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Jekabpils:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Jekabpils, check into your hotel, and explore the city center
2 Visit the Jekabpils Museum of Local History and Art, have lunch at a local restaurant, and wander around Krasta Park
3 Hike or cycle along the Daugavas Loki Nature Park Trail and have a picnic in the woods
4 Visit the Kuzmicki Memorial Museum, have lunch at a traditional Latvian tavern, and enjoy the Jekabpils Adventure Park
5 Go canoeing or kayaking on the Daugava River and relax at Jekabpils Beach
6 Explore the Jekabpils Castle Ruins, have lunch at a nearby café, and take a city walking tour
7 Buy souvenirs at the local market, have brunch at a trendy café, and depart from Jekabpils

Food and Drink Scene of Jekabpils

Must-Try Dishes

  • Piragi – small, baked pastries filled with bacon, onions, and spices, often served as a snack or appetizer.
  • Grey Peas and Bacon – a traditional Latvian dish made of boiled grey peas, fried bacon, and onions, often served with sour cream and rye bread.
  • Rupjmaize – a dark, dense rye bread that is a staple of Latvian cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Balsam – a herbal liqueur that is often served as an after-dinner drink, believed to have medicinal properties.
  • Beer – Latvia has a long tradition of brewing beer, and there are many local breweries that offer a variety of lagers, ales, and stouts.

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

Jekabpils has plenty of options for accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, including:

  • Hotel Daugavkrasti – a modern hotel located on the banks of the Daugava River, offering comfortable rooms, a sauna, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Guesthouse Kalnini – a cozy guesthouse with a country-style décor, surrounded by forest and meadows, offering comfortable rooms and traditional Latvian cuisine.
  • Hostel Jekabpils – a budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, offering a shared kitchen, lounge, and free Wi-Fi.

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

  • Amber – Latvia is known for its high-quality amber jewelry, which makes a memorable souvenir or gift.
  • Linen Products – Latvia has a long tradition of producing linen products, such as tablecloths, napkins, and towels, often decorated with traditional patterns and motifs.
  • Wooden Crafts – Latvia has a rich woodworking tradition, and you can find handcrafted wooden items, such as boxes, bowls, and figurines, in many shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Jekabpils

  • Latvians are generally reserved and value personal space and privacy.
  • It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or certain public spaces, such as religious buildings.
  • English is widely spoken in Jekabpils, especially in tourist areas, but learning a few Latvian phrases can be helpful in communicating with locals.

Best Time to Visit Jekabpils

The best time to visit Jekabpils is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. July is the busiest month, with many festivals and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jekabpils

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages to experience the flavors of Jekabpils.
  • Engage with locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public spaces, such as parks and streets.
  • Take photographs without permission, particularly of people or religious sites.
  • Leave trash or litter in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jekabpils

Jekabpils is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly community. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as avoiding dark or secluded areas at night, keeping their valuables secure, and being mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Jekabpils

Latvia has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care at public hospitals or private clinics if needed. It is advisable to have travel health insurance and to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations.

Getting to Jekabpils: Transportation Options and Logistics

Jekabpils is well-connected to other cities in Latvia and Europe, with several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Jekabpils

  • Riga International Airport – the largest airport in Latvia, located 146km northwest of Jekabpils.

Bus Stations Near Jekabpils

  • Jekabpils Bus Station – located in the city center, with regular bus services to other Latvian cities, such as Riga and Daugavpils.

Other Options

  • Train – the nearest train station is in Sala, 20km north of Jekabpils, with services to Riga and other Latvian cities.
  • Car Rental – many car rental companies operate in Riga and other Latvian cities, offering the flexibility to explore Jekabpils and nearby areas on your own.

How to Get Around in Jekabpils

Jekabpils is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances or for those who prefer not to walk or cycle.

Where to Go Next from Jekabpils: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jekabpils is a great base for exploring other regions of Latvia, such as:

  • Riga – the capital city of Latvia, with a rich cultural and historical heritage, located 146km northwest of Jekabpils.
  • Daugavpils – the second-largest city in Latvia, with many museums, landmarks, and cultural events, located 89km east of Jekabpils.
  • Sigulda – a picturesque town in the Gauja National Park, known for its castles, caves, and outdoor activities, located 110km northwest of Jekabpils.

Conclusion

Jekabpils is a hidden gem of Latvia that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Jekabpils has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable journey to this charming Latvian city!

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