Things to Do in Cesis, Latvija

Cēsis is a charming medieval town nestled in the heart of Latvia's Gauja National Park, often considered one of the country's most beautiful destinations. This historic gem boasts a rich heritage dating back over 800 years, with its crown jewel being the impressive Cēsis Castle complex that has watched over the town since the 13th century. The cobblestone streets wind through well-preserved medieval architecture, creating an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Beyond its historical significance, Cēsis serves as an excellent base for exploring Latvia's stunning natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by pristine forests, meandering rivers, and scenic hiking trails that showcase the best of the Gauja Valley. With its perfect blend of cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and authentic Latvian charm, Cēsis offers visitors an intimate glimpse into both medieval history and contemporary Baltic life.

Top Things to Do in Cesis

Explore Cēsis Castle and Medieval Park

Discover the magnificent ruins of this 13th-century Livonian Order castle, one of Latvia's most significant historical monuments. The castle complex includes both medieval ruins and a newer manor house that now serves as a museum, offering insights into centuries of Baltic history. Visitors can climb the castle towers with lanterns for an atmospheric experience and explore the surrounding medieval park.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €5-8 for adults, with combination tickets available for castle and museum. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Book lantern tours in advance during peak season (summer months).

Hike in Gauja National Park

Embark on scenic hiking trails through Latvia's largest and oldest national park, featuring ancient river valleys, sandstone cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The park offers numerous well-marked trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with highlights including the Gauja River Valley and various observation towers. The pristine forests and unique geological formations make this a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Booking Tip: Park entry is free, but guided tours cost €15-25 per person. Spring through autumn offers the best hiking conditions. Bring sturdy footwear and check weather conditions before heading out.

Visit Turaida Museum Reserve

Explore this open-air museum complex featuring the iconic Turaida Castle, folk song garden, and numerous historical buildings spread across 42 hectares. The reserve tells the story of 1000 years of history through interactive exhibits, medieval architecture, and beautiful gardens. The legendary grave of the Turaida Rose and the sculpture park add romantic and cultural elements to the visit.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost €6-10 for adults with discounts for students and seniors. Allow 3-4 hours for a complete visit. Purchase combination tickets online for savings and consider visiting on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Experience Traditional Latvian Crafts

Participate in hands-on workshops learning traditional Latvian crafts such as pottery, weaving, or woodworking in local artisan studios. These authentic experiences provide insight into centuries-old techniques still practiced today and offer the chance to create unique souvenirs. Many workshops are held in historic buildings, adding to the authentic medieval atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Workshop prices range from €20-40 per person depending on the craft and duration. Book 2-3 days in advance, especially during summer. Look for workshops that include materials and refreshments in the price.

Explore Cēsis Old Town Walking Tour

Wander through the beautifully preserved medieval streets of Cēsis Old Town, discovering hidden courtyards, historic churches, and charming wooden architecture. The self-guided or guided tours reveal fascinating stories about medieval merchants, ancient guilds, and the town's role in Baltic history. Key highlights include St. John's Church, the old brewery, and traditional Latvian wooden houses.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with maps available at the tourist office. Guided tours cost €10-15 per person and typically last 1.5-2 hours. Evening tours during summer months offer magical lighting of the medieval buildings.

Getting There

Cēsis is easily accessible from Riga, located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Latvia's capital. The most convenient option is driving, which takes about 1.5 hours via the A2 highway, offering scenic countryside views along the way. Regular bus services operate from Riga's central bus station to Cēsis several times daily, with journey times of around 2 hours and tickets costing €5-8. While there's no direct train service, you can take a train to Valmiera and then connect by bus, though this option takes longer and is less convenient than direct bus travel.

Getting Around

Cēsis is a compact town that's best explored on foot, with most attractions within easy walking distance of the town center. The historic Old Town and castle complex are particularly pedestrian-friendly, connected by well-maintained cobblestone streets and marked walking paths. For exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park and nearby attractions like Turaida, renting a car provides the most flexibility, though local buses and organized tours are available. Bicycle rental is also popular during warmer months, with several scenic cycling routes connecting various points of interest in and around the town.

Where to Stay

Old Town Center

Castle District

Gauja Riverbank

Valmiera Road Area

Park Vicinity

Town Outskirts

Food & Dining

Cēsis offers a delightful mix of traditional Latvian cuisine and modern European dining, with most restaurants concentrated in the charming Old Town area. Local specialties include hearty rye bread, smoked fish, seasonal game dishes, and the famous Cēsis beer brewed locally since 1590. Traditional taverns serve authentic Latvian fare like grey peas with bacon and potato pancakes, while newer establishments offer contemporary interpretations of Baltic cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The town's cafes are perfect for trying Latvian pastries and enjoying coffee while soaking in the medieval atmosphere, and several restaurants feature outdoor terraces with views of the castle ruins.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cēsis is from late spring through early autumn (May to September), when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and the most vibrant atmosphere, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring and early autumn provide fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures for hiking, and beautiful seasonal colors in the surrounding forests, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Winter visits can be magical with snow-covered castle ruins and cozy indoor attractions, though some outdoor activities may be limited and daylight hours are significantly shorter.

Insider Tips

Visit the Cēsis Brewery for a tasting of Latvia's oldest beer, established in 1590, and try to time your visit with their seasonal brewing demonstrations

Climb the observation tower at Ķeizarkrēsls (Emperor's Chair) for panoramic views of the Gauja Valley - it's a short hike from town but offers the best photography opportunities

Check the local events calendar as Cēsis hosts several medieval festivals and craft fairs throughout the year, particularly during summer months when the castle courtyard comes alive with historical reenactments

Things to Do in Cesis