Things to Do in Kuldiga, Latvija

Kuldīga is a charming medieval town in western Latvia, often called the 'Venice of Latvia' for its picturesque canals and historic wooden architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate site is home to Europe's widest natural waterfall, Ventas Rumba, and boasts one of the best-preserved old towns in the Baltics. The town sits along the Venta River and features cobblestone streets, 17th-century buildings, and a remarkably intact brick bridge from 1874. With a population of just 11,000, Kuldīga offers an intimate glimpse into Latvia's rich history and culture. The town served as the capital of the Duchy of Courland and retains much of its medieval charm, from the Duke Jacob's Palace ruins to the historic St. Catherine's Church. Visitors can explore centuries-old cellars, traditional craft workshops, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Europe's most authentic small towns.

Top Things to Do in Kuldiga

Ventas Rumba Waterfall

Visit Europe's widest natural waterfall, stretching 249 meters across the Venta River. The waterfall is particularly spectacular during spring floods and offers excellent photo opportunities year-round. In autumn, you might witness the unique phenomenon of vimba fish jumping upstream.

Booking Tip: Free to visit and accessible 24/7. Best viewed during spring (April-May) for maximum water flow. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography.

Old Town Walking Tour

Explore Kuldīga's remarkably preserved medieval old town with its cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and historic squares. The area features beautiful examples of 17th and 18th-century architecture and charming courtyards. Don't miss the Town Hall Square and the historic market area.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with maps available at the tourist information center. Guided tours cost around €5-10 per person and can be arranged through the Kuldīga Tourism Information Centre.

Brick Bridge (Ķieģeļu tilts)

Walk across the historic brick bridge built in 1874, one of the longest brick bridges in Europe at 164 meters. The bridge offers stunning views of the Ventas Rumba waterfall and the old town. It's particularly beautiful at sunset and serves as Kuldīga's most iconic landmark.

Booking Tip: Free to access and walk across. Best photographed from the riverbank below or from either end of the bridge. Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting.

St. Catherine's Church

Visit this beautiful Lutheran church dating from the 13th century, featuring impressive Gothic architecture and a distinctive red-tiled roof. The church houses historic artifacts and offers insights into the region's religious history. The bell tower provides panoramic views of the town.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is typically €2-3. Check opening hours as they vary seasonally. Tower climbing may require advance booking and costs an additional €2-5.

Underground Cellars Tour

Explore Kuldīga's network of historic underground cellars and tunnels dating back to the 17th century. These cellars were used by merchants for storing goods and provide fascinating insights into the town's trading history. The temperature remains constant year-round, making it a great activity in any weather.

Booking Tip: Tours must be booked in advance through the Tourism Information Centre for €8-12 per person. Available in Latvian, English, and German. Wear warm clothing as cellars maintain 8-10°C temperature.

Getting There

Kuldīga is located about 150 kilometers west of Riga and is best reached by car, taking approximately 2 hours via the A9 highway. Regular bus services operate from Riga's central bus station with journey times of 2.5-3 hours and tickets costing around €8-12. The nearest airport is Riga International Airport, from where you can rent a car or take public transport. Train connections are limited, so bus or car are the most practical options for reaching this charming town.

Getting Around

Kuldīga is a small, walkable town where most attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. The historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with most sights accessible within a 10-15 minute walk. Bicycles can be rented from local providers for around €10-15 per day and are perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside. Limited local bus services connect outer neighborhoods, but visitors rarely need public transport within the town itself.

Where to Stay

Old Town Center

Near Ventas Rumba

Venta Riverbank

Liepājas Street Area

Castle Park vicinity

Pils Street neighborhood

Food & Dining

Kuldīga's dining scene focuses on traditional Latvian cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients and seasonal specialties. The town offers several cozy restaurants serving hearty dishes like grey peas with bacon, smoked fish, and locally brewed beer. Many establishments are housed in historic buildings, creating an authentic medieval atmosphere. Don't miss trying lamprey during the spring season, a local delicacy traditionally caught in the Venta River. The town also has charming cafes perfect for coffee and traditional Latvian pastries, with most restaurants offering English menus and welcoming international visitors.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Kuldīga is from late spring to early autumn (May through September) when the weather is warmest and all attractions are fully operational. Spring (April-May) offers the spectacular sight of Ventas Rumba at its most powerful due to snowmelt, plus the unique lamprey migration. Summer provides the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for walking tours and outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds, though some seasonal attractions may have reduced hours. Winter can be atmospheric with snow-covered medieval streets, but temperatures drop significantly and daylight hours are limited.

Insider Tips

Visit during the annual Kuldīga City Festival in August for traditional crafts demonstrations and folk performances

The best photo spot for Ventas Rumba is from the small park on the left bank of the river, especially during the golden hour

Many shops and restaurants close early on Sundays, so plan accordingly and check opening hours in advance

Things to Do in Kuldiga