Things to Do in Turaida, Latvija

Turaida is a historic village nestled in the picturesque Gauja Valley, about 50 kilometers northeast of Riga, Latvia. This enchanting destination is home to one of Latvia's most significant cultural monuments - the medieval Turaida Castle, which dates back to 1214 and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history spanning over 800 years. The area is part of Gauja National Park, Latvia's oldest and largest national park, making it a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The village is steeped in legend and folklore, most notably the tragic tale of the Turaida Rose, a local legend about a beautiful maiden named Maija who lived here in the 17th century. Today, Turaida serves as an open-air museum where visitors can explore ancient castle ruins, walk through sculpture parks, visit traditional wooden churches, and enjoy panoramic views of the Gauja River valley. The peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved medieval architecture make it one of Latvia's most romantic and historically significant destinations.

Top Things to Do in Turaida

Explore Turaida Castle and Museum

Climb the restored medieval castle tower for breathtaking views of the Gauja Valley and explore the comprehensive museum exhibits showcasing 1000 years of Latvian history. The castle complex includes archaeological finds, medieval artifacts, and interactive displays that bring the region's past to life.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €6-8 for adults. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The castle is open year-round but check seasonal hours as they vary significantly between summer and winter months.

Visit the Wooden Church of Turaida

Step inside this charming 18th-century Lutheran church built entirely of wood, representing traditional Baltic architecture. The church features beautiful wooden interior details and serves as a peaceful retreat where you can learn about local religious history and admire the craftsmanship of ancient builders.

Booking Tip: Entry is typically included with castle tickets or costs €2-3 separately. The church often hosts small concerts and cultural events during summer months. Check the schedule in advance as opening hours can be limited during off-season.

Hike the Nature Trails in Gauja National Park

Explore well-marked hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, along the Gauja River, and past dramatic sandstone cliffs and caves. The trails offer varying difficulty levels and showcase the diverse flora and fauna of Latvia's pristine wilderness areas.

Booking Tip: Trail access is free, but consider hiring a local guide for €20-30 per group to learn about local ecology and history. Best hiking months are May through September. Bring sturdy footwear and check weather conditions as trails can be muddy after rain.

Discover the Sculpture Park

Wander through an outdoor sculpture garden featuring works by contemporary Latvian artists set among the natural landscape. The park combines modern art with the historical setting, creating a unique cultural experience that reflects Latvia's artistic heritage and contemporary creativity.

Booking Tip: Usually included with castle admission or available as a separate €3-4 ticket. The park is most enjoyable during daylight hours and offers great photo opportunities. Some sculptures have QR codes with additional information in multiple languages.

Take a Boat Trip on the Gauja River

Experience the Gauja Valley from a different perspective with a scenic boat ride along Latvia's ancient river. These trips often include commentary about local legends, wildlife spotting opportunities, and views of the castle and surrounding landscapes that can't be seen from land.

Booking Tip: Boat trips cost €15-25 per person and typically run from May to September, weather permitting. Book in advance during peak summer months. Look for operators offering combination packages with castle entry for better value.

Getting There

Turaida is easily accessible from Riga by car via the A2 highway, taking approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Public transportation options include taking a bus from Riga's central bus station to Sigulda (about 1 hour), then either walking 3 kilometers through scenic forest paths or taking a local bus to Turaida. During summer months, there's also a tourist train that runs between Sigulda and Turaida, offering a charming journey through the national park. Many visitors combine Turaida with nearby Sigulda and Cēsis as part of a Gauja Valley tour.

Getting Around

Turaida is a small village best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. The main sites are connected by well-maintained paths and wooden walkways that are suitable for most fitness levels. Bicycles can be rented in nearby Sigulda for those who want to explore the broader Gauja National Park area. During peak season, a small tourist shuttle operates between major attractions. The compact nature of the village means that everything from the castle to the church and sculpture park can be comfortably visited in a single day without any motorized transport.

Where to Stay

Sigulda town center

Gauja riverbank guesthouses

Forest retreat cabins

Cēsis historic district

Valmiera countryside hotels

Riga day trip base

Food & Dining

Dining options in Turaida itself are limited to a small café near the castle that serves traditional Latvian snacks, coffee, and light meals with ingredients sourced from local farms. For more substantial dining, visitors typically head to nearby Sigulda, which offers several restaurants specializing in Latvian cuisine, including hearty dishes like grey peas with bacon, potato pancakes, and locally-sourced game meats. Many restaurants in the area emphasize farm-to-table dining with seasonal menus featuring mushrooms, berries, and fresh fish from local rivers. The region is also known for its craft beer and traditional herbal teas, perfect for warming up after exploring the outdoor attractions.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Turaida is from late May through early October when the weather is mild and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, though this is also the busiest period. Spring (May) and early autumn (September-October) provide fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors, with autumn offering spectacular foliage in the surrounding forests. Winter visits can be magical with snow-covered landscapes, but some attractions have limited hours and outdoor activities may be restricted due to weather conditions.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and have a more peaceful experience exploring the castle and trails

Combine your visit with nearby Sigulda and Cēsis to make the most of your Gauja Valley trip and see multiple medieval castles in one day

Bring a picnic to enjoy in the sculpture park or along the river, as dining options within Turaida village are very limited

Things to Do in Turaida