Things to Do in Latvia in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Latvia
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodations 30-40% cheaper than summer peak, flights from Western Europe often under €100 return
- Snow begins melting creating dramatic landscapes - frozen waterfalls start flowing, forest trails emerge from winter cover
- Pancake Week (Meteņi) celebrations throughout month - traditional Latvian winter farewell festivals with sleigh rides and massive bonfires
- Maple syrup season in Gauja National Park - witness traditional sap collection and taste fresh syrup at local farms
Considerations
- Muddy season begins - many forest trails become impassable, hiking boots essential for any outdoor activity
- Daylight still limited to 10 hours (7:30am-5:30pm) restricting sightseeing time compared to summer's 18-hour days
- Weather extremely unpredictable - can swing from -5°C to +10°C (23°F to 50°F) within 24 hours, making packing challenging
Best Activities in March
Riga Old Town Medieval Architecture Tours
March's crisp air and thinner crowds make this perfect timing for exploring Riga's UNESCO World Heritage medieval center. Snow dusting on Gothic spires creates stunning photo opportunities, while indoor portions of tours (St. Peter's Church tower, Riga Castle) provide warm refuges. Cobblestones can be icy early morning but clear by midday.
Gauja National Park Winter-Spring Transition Hiking
March offers unique opportunity to witness Latvia's largest national park transitioning from winter to spring. Turaida Castle emerges from snow cover, Gutmanis Cave formations are most dramatic, and frozen Gauja River begins its spring thaw. Trails require proper boots due to mud and remaining ice patches.
Traditional Latvian Sauna and Wellness Experiences
March's cold, damp weather makes this ideal time for authentic Latvian sauna culture. Traditional pirts (steam baths) with birch branch beating rituals are most appreciated after cold outdoor exploring. Many rural guesthouses offer sauna packages with traditional foods and beverages.
Jurmala Beach and Spa Resort Day Trips
While too cold for swimming, March is perfect for Jurmala's famous wooden architecture photography and spa treatments. Art Nouveau buildings stand out beautifully against grey Baltic Sea backdrop. Indoor thermal spas provide luxury refuge from weather.
Rundāle Palace Interior Tours and Gardens Preview
March is optimal for touring Latvia's 'Versailles' as interior rooms are less crowded and heating creates cozy atmosphere. While formal gardens are dormant, bare tree layouts reveal baroque landscape design. Photography inside palace is permitted with advance booking.
Daugava River Cultural Heritage Boat Tours
As ice breaks up on Daugava River, March boat tours become possible again. Heated cabin boats offer views of Riga's skyline, Soviet-era architecture, and spring wildlife return. Tours often include stops at Daugavgrīva fortress and traditional fishing villages.
March Events & Festivals
Meteņi (Pancake Week) Celebrations
Traditional Latvian carnival marking winter's end with massive pancake feasts, mask parades, and bonfire ceremonies. Villages throughout Latvia host sleigh rides, folk music, and traditional games. Most authentic celebrations occur in rural areas like Tērvete and Bauska regions.
Riga Fashion Week
Baltic region's premier fashion event showcasing Nordic and Baltic designers. Venues throughout Riga's Art Nouveau district host runway shows, pop-up markets, and designer talks. Many events open to public with advance registration.