Things to do in Vidzeme region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Vidzeme region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Vidzeme is rich with medieval castles and fortifications set among forests and rivers.
Turaida Castle
A striking red-brick fortress overlooking the Gauja River, part of a larger complex with a museum and scenic grounds.
Sigulda Castle Ruins
Impressive ruins of a Livonian Order fortress perched above the Gauja River, offering panoramic views and medieval history.
Cēsis Castle (Livonian Order fortress)
Ruins of a medieval fortress in the heart of Cēsis, surrounded by a charming historic town.
Museums
Learn about local history, art, and the Gauja region through well-curated collections.
Cēsis History and Art Museum
Displays the region’s history and local art, with exhibits on medieval life and town development.
Valmiera Museum
Regional museum in Valmiera with artifacts illustrating local history and everyday life.
Gauja National Park Visitor Centre
Intro to Gauja NP, its geology, flora and trails, with maps and interactive displays.
Religious Monuments
Across Vidzeme, historic churches reflect the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Sigulda Evangelical Lutheran Church
Historic church in Sigulda, a distinctive feature of the town’s religious heritage.
St. John’s Church (Cēsis)
Medieval-era church contributing to Cēsis’s historic skyline and town atmosphere.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor lovers will find forests, rivers and ancient landscapes ideal for exploration.
Gauja National Park
Latvia’s largest national park, known for red sandstone cliffs, lush forests and scenic river valleys.
Līgatne Nature Trails
Accessible wooden boardwalks through pine forests and meadows near Līgatne.
Āraiši Archaeological Park
Archaeological site with reconstructed lake dwellings and a small museum near Valmiera.
Neighborhoods
Each town in Vidzeme has a compact historic core you can wander on foot.
Cēsis Old Town
Medieval streets, cobblestones, and cozy cafés surrounding the church square.
Sigulda Old Town
Historic center with a mix of medieval and 19th-century architecture and scenic views.
Valmiera Old Town
Riverside streets and traditional storefronts in Valmiera’s historic heart.
Free Things to Do
Many of Vidzeme’s best experiences are free or inexpensive.
Hiking in Gauja National Park
Choose from well-marked forest trails and viewpoints along the Gauja Valley.
Gauja River Walk (Sigulda)
Casual stroll along the river with easy paths and scenic meadows.
Valmiera City Park stroll
Relaxing riverside park with benches, greenery and a pleasant atmosphere.
Gastronomy
Taste local flavors and craft beverages from Vidzeme’s producers.
Valmiermuiža Craft Brewery
Local brewery with a tap room offering tastings and rustic Latvian dishes.
Cēsis Town Market
Local market area where you can sample regional foods and fresh produce.
Nightlife
Evening options range from laid-back pubs to lively brewery tap rooms.
Valmiermuiža Tap Room
Relaxed setting for beer flights and casual bites at the brewery.
Cēsis Old Town pubs
Cozy bars around the historic center with local sounds and friendly crowds.
Entertainment
Cultural venues host concerts, plays and seasonal events.
Cēsis Concert Hall
Venue for concerts and performing arts in the heart of Cēsis.
Sigulda Cultural Center
Local events and performances in a central community venue.
Sports
Adventures and sports experiences abound in Gauja country.
Sigulda Bobsleigh, Luge and Skeleton Track
World-renowned track offering winter and kid-friendly activities on site.
Gauja River Kayaking
Kayak or raft along the scenic Gauja River with nearby puts-ins.
Off the Track
Go beyond the beaten path with unique ways to experience Vidzeme.
Hot air balloon ride over Gauja Valley
Soar above forests and river valleys for a bird’s-eye view of Vidzeme.
Night sky stargazing in Gauja National Park
Clear skies offer a quiet, immersive night under the stars.