Things to Do in Daugavpils, Latvija

Daugavpils, Latvia's second-largest city, stands as a remarkable cultural crossroads in the southeastern region of the country. This historic fortress city, built around the impressive 19th-century Daugavpils Fortress, offers visitors a unique blend of military heritage, contemporary art, and multicultural atmosphere. The city's strategic location along the Daugava River has shaped its identity as a melting pot where Latvian, Russian, Polish, and Lithuanian influences converge. Today, Daugavpils has transformed from a military stronghold into a vibrant cultural destination, home to the renowned Mark Rothko Art Centre and numerous festivals throughout the year. The city's well-preserved fortress complex, one of the few remaining 19th-century military fortifications in Northern Europe, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's complex history while serving as a dynamic cultural hub with museums, galleries, and performance spaces.

Top Things to Do in Daugavpils

Explore Daugavpils Fortress

Wander through one of Europe's best-preserved 19th-century fortress complexes, featuring massive earthen ramparts, historic buildings, and panoramic views of the Daugava River. The fortress houses several museums, cultural institutions, and offers guided tours that reveal centuries of military history. The complex also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Entry to the fortress grounds is free, but museum tickets cost €3-5 each. Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and consider booking guided tours (€10-15) in advance through the visitor center. Best explored in 3-4 hours during morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and comfortable temperatures.

Visit Mark Rothko Art Centre

Discover the world's only museum dedicated to the abstract expressionist master Mark Rothko, who was born in Daugavpils. The center features original works, multimedia exhibitions, and educational programs exploring Rothko's artistic journey from his Latvian roots to international acclaim. The museum also showcases contemporary art exhibitions and cultural programs.

Booking Tip: Admission costs €5 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays. Audio guides available for €3. Book online for special exhibitions or workshops. Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit, and check for temporary exhibitions featuring international artists.

Daugava River Activities

Experience the mighty Daugava River through boat tours, kayaking, or riverside walks along the scenic embankment. The river offers excellent fishing opportunities and beautiful viewpoints of the city's skyline and fortress. During summer months, organized boat excursions provide unique perspectives of Daugavpils' historical landmarks from the water.

Booking Tip: Boat tours cost €15-25 per person and operate May through September. Kayak rentals available for €20-30 per day from local operators. Book river activities 1-2 days in advance during peak summer season. Early morning or evening tours offer the best lighting and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Unity House Cultural Center

Visit this architectural gem and cultural hub that hosts concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions throughout the year. The building itself is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture and serves as the heart of Daugavpils' cultural life. The center regularly features both local and international artists across various disciplines.

Booking Tip: Event tickets range from €5-25 depending on the performance. Check the monthly program online and book popular shows in advance. Many events are in Latvian or Russian, but music and dance performances are universally enjoyable. Student and senior discounts often available.

Regional Museum and Local History Tour

Delve into the rich multicultural history of Daugavpils and the Latgale region through extensive collections of artifacts, traditional crafts, and historical exhibits. The museum showcases the area's diverse ethnic heritage, traditional pottery, and the evolution of the city from medieval times to the present. Special exhibitions often highlight local traditions and customs.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs €3-4 for adults. Open Wednesday-Sunday, closed Monday-Tuesday. Guided tours available in multiple languages for €8-10 per group. Allow 2 hours for the main exhibition. Combine with visits to nearby craft workshops for a comprehensive cultural experience.

Getting There

Daugavpils is easily accessible by train from Riga, with regular services taking approximately 3.5-4 hours and costing €8-15 depending on the class. The city is also well-connected by bus to major Latvian cities and neighboring countries, with Riga-Daugavpils buses running several times daily for €10-12. For international travelers, the nearest major airport is Riga International Airport, from which you can take a direct bus or train connection. Driving from Riga takes about 3 hours via the A6 highway, and the city is conveniently located near the Lithuanian and Belarusian borders, making it an excellent stop for multi-country tours.

Getting Around

Daugavpils is a compact city that's easily explored on foot, with most major attractions within walking distance of the city center. Local buses provide affordable transportation (€0.50-1 per ride) to outlying areas and connect the main districts. Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced for short distances within the city, typically costing €3-8 for most journeys. Bicycle rentals are available during warmer months and offer a pleasant way to explore the riverside paths and fortress grounds. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are clustered around the fortress area, making walking the most convenient option for sightseeing.

Where to Stay

City Center near Unity House

Fortress District

Daugava Riverside area

Grīva neighborhood

New Town district

Near the train station

Food & Dining

Daugavpils offers a diverse culinary scene reflecting its multicultural heritage, with restaurants serving traditional Latvian cuisine alongside Russian, Polish, and Lithuanian dishes. Local specialties include Latgalian pottery-baked bread, regional cheeses, and hearty meat dishes. The city center features several cozy cafes and restaurants ranging from budget-friendly options (€8-12 per meal) to upscale dining establishments (€20-30 per meal). Don't miss trying traditional Latgalian dishes like potato pancakes with sour cream, local smoked fish, and regional craft beers. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating during summer months, and several establishments near the fortress provide atmospheric dining with historical ambiance.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Daugavpils is from late May through early September when temperatures are mild (18-25°C) and most cultural events take place. Summer months offer the longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring the fortress and enjoying river activities. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors, though some outdoor activities may be limited. Winter visits can be magical with snow-covered fortress walls, but temperatures drop significantly (-5 to -15°C), and daylight hours are short. July and August are peak tourist months with the warmest weather and most festivals, but also higher accommodation prices and larger crowds.

Insider Tips

Visit during the annual Daugavpils City Festival in August for special cultural events, concerts, and extended museum hours throughout the fortress complex

Many locals speak Russian as well as Latvian, and some basic Russian phrases can be helpful, especially when dining at traditional restaurants or shopping at local markets

The fortress area can be quite windy year-round due to its elevated position, so bring layers even during summer visits, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the cobblestone paths

Things to Do in Daugavpils