Things to do in Gauja National Park
Discover the best attractions and experiences Gauja National Park has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the ancient fortresses and historic sites perched along the Gauja River valley.
Turaida Castle
A medieval fortress overlooking the Gauja River, core of the Turaida Museum Reserve.
Sigulda Castle
Ruins of a medieval fortress with panoramic valley views and surrounding forest trails.
Krimulda Manor ruins
Romantic hillside ruins connected to Sigulda’s historic landscape.
Museums
Discover regional stories through evocative exhibits and museum collections.
Turaida Museum Reserve
Museum complex within the Turaida area covering archaeology, history and art.
Cēsis History and Art Museum
Exhibits detailing Cēsis’ medieval past and regional culture.
Valmiera Museum
Local history and cultural displays in the gateway town to Gauja NP.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites add a spiritual layer to the Gauja countryside.
St. John’s Church, Cēsis
Historic parish church with medieval roots in the heart of Cēsis.
Līgatne Evangelical Lutheran Church
Traditional Lutheran church reflecting the region’s religious heritage.
Sigulda Evangelical Lutheran Church
Historic church exemplifying the area’s faith and community history.
National & Theme Parks
Natural splendour and forested landscapes await in and around Gauja National Park.
Gauja National Park
Latvia’s oldest and most scenic park with caves, castles and river valleys.
Līgatne Nature Trails
Boardwalk trails through pine forests with wildlife and historic forestry structures.
Gauja River canoeing routes
Paddling paths along the Gauja for various experience levels.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in towns that showcase Gauja’s culture, cuisine and scenery.
Sigulda
Forest-clad town known for castles, cliff views and year-round activities.
Cēsis
Medieval town with a well-preserved old town and historic walls.
Līgatne
Village famed for nature trails and forestry heritage.
Free Things to Do
Many of Gauja’s best experiences are free to enjoy.
Hiking the Gauja Valley trails
Well-marked routes reveal viewpoints, forests and river scenery.
Gutmanis Cave
Latvia’s largest cave, accessible via a short boardwalk.
Gauja River picnic spots
Find a riverside place to relax and soak in the scenery.
Forest birdwatching along Gauja
Spot local species and enjoy the park’s natural quiet.
Gastronomy
Savor Latvian flavours through regional dishes and countryside dining.
Traditional Latvian farmhouse dining
Hearty meals served in a Gauja-region farmstead setting.
Rye bread & smoked fish tasting
Classic regional pairing to accompany a village stroll.
Local berry desserts at Gauja cafés
Seasonal treats featuring forest berries from nearby hedges and farms.
Nightlife
Evenings offer cozy bars and live music in the Valley towns.
Bars and pubs in Sigulda
Casual venues with local drinks and relaxed vibes.
Live music evenings in Sigulda town center
Seasonal performances in atmospheric settings.
Night strolls by lit castles and the Gauja
Dinner-time or post-sunset walks with views of illuminated landmarks.
Entertainment
Thrills and cultural experiences add sparkle to the trip.
Sigulda Bobsleigh, Luge and Toboggan Track
An adrenaline-pueled track set in the forest for all ages.
Sigulda Adventure Park
Forest courses and zip-lines weaving through pine canopies.
Gauja River boat rides
Relaxed boat trips offering a different perspective on the valley.
Sports
Active pursuits abound in the Gauja region.
Gauja River kayaking/canoeing
Paddle through scenic gorges and forested banks.
Hiking on Gauja NP trails
Extensive networks for day trips or longer hikes.
Cycling along Gauja NP routes
Well-maintained cycle paths with countryside views.
Off the Track
Escape the crowds with lesser-known corners and hidden gems.
Krimulda Manor ruins
Quiet hillside ruins with evocative views and trails nearby.
Līgatne Nature Trails
Forest boardwalks and historic forestry structures off the beaten path.
Cēsis Old Town stroll
Winding streets, weavers’ lanes and tucked-away courtyards to explore.