As part of our road trip from Sweden through the Baltics, we made a memorable stop in Sigulda, a picturesque Latvian town just 55 kilometers from Riga. Though small, Sigulda is stunningly beautiful, earning it the nickname “Latvia’s Switzerland.” This gem came highly recommended by a Latvian friend, just like a trip to Cēsis, and we knew it would be worth the visit.
Sigulda is perched on the edge of the lush Gauja Valley, surrounded by medieval castles and legendary caves. It serves as a gateway to Gauja National Park, the largest in Latvia. Known as “Latvia’s Switzerland,” the region is famous for its green, Alpine-like hills, rustic wooden farmhouses, and endless fields of golden flowers.
Traveling to Sigulda is easy and convenient. You can reach Sigulda by bus from Riga (2 hours) or by train from Riga (1 hour 15 minutes), Valmiera (1 hour 15 minutes), Līgatne (10 minutes), and Cēsis (50 minutes).
What to See in Sigulda
Visiting Turaida Castle: a Medieval Marvel
Our main reason for visiting Sigulda was the legendary Turaida Castle, just 3 kilometers outside the town. The entrance fee is affordable at €4.98, and parking costs €1.42 per car (or free in winter). The castle sits within a museum reserve, and guided tours are available for those looking to delve deeper into its fascinating history.
Turaida Castle is one of the most famous castles in Latvia and one of the most beautifully restored. It’s no surprise that visiting Turaida has become almost a rite of passage for anyone traveling through the region. The castle, originally built in 1214 on the orders of Riga’s Archbishop Albert, has been meticulously reconstructed to reflect the grandeur of a true medieval fortress.
The name “Turaida” comes from the Livonian language and means “Garden of God.” It is a fitting name for a castle perched above the serene Gauja River. During its heyday, the castle was a crucial defensive outpost protecting the route to Riga.
In 1601, Turaida was captured by the Swedes, who established a garrison in the castle. In 1776, the castle was almost destroyed by fire. It then stood abandoned for several decades before residential houses, stables, barns, and other utility buildings were constructed on its grounds.
Efforts to preserve Turaida began in 1924, with significant restoration starting in 1953. The first major project was the reconstruction of the castle’s main tower, now standing at 26 meters tall and serving as a lookout point with breathtaking views of the Gauja Valley.
Excavations at the site have uncovered over 5,000 artifacts, including medieval ovens, a brewery, a bathhouse, coins, arrowheads, and even a golden ducat. These treasures provide a glimpse into the daily lives of those who lived and worked in the fortress.
Climbing the main tower is an adventure in itself. The narrow staircase—just half a meter wide and 1.5 meters tall—leads to the top, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the valley. Alongside the tower, the castle walls and two additional towers have been rebuilt, creating an authentic medieval atmosphere.
The Turaida Museum Reserve, housed in a former utility building since 1962, features exhibitions on the castle’s history and its reconstruction.
Just across from Turaida Castle, visitors can find a charming canteen styled after the Soviet era. The decor is nostalgic, with displays of vintage kitchenware and even a “Complaints Book.” But unlike its historical counterparts, the food here is both delicious and served with a smile—and at delightfully low prices.
Other Gems of Sigulda
In addition to Turaida, Sigulda is home to two more historic castles:
- New Sigulda Castle: Visitors can freely explore the grounds, though the interior is off-limits as it now houses the local government. A nearby viewpoint offers stunning vistas of Krimulda Manor and Gauja National Park.
- Old Sigulda Castle: Also known as Segewold Castle, this medieval ruin is a short walk from the New Castle and is steeped in history.
In the summer months, Sigulda becomes a hub for extreme tourism enthusiasts. Activities include hot air balloon rides, bungee jumping into the river, and the Forest Cat Adventure Park. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Sigulda cable car, which spans a kilometer and connects the two banks of the Gauja River.
Autumn in Sigulda is the season of romantic getaways. The area transforms into a stunningly beautiful landscape, attracting residents of Riga and beyond to immerse themselves in nature’s vibrant fall colors.
In winter, Sigulda turns into a center for skiing tourism. The area boasts specially prepared trails for skiers as well as the world-famous bobsleigh and luge track. Winter weather in Sigulda is usually excellent, drawing hundreds of skiing and winter sports enthusiasts to the region.
Make sure to add this Latvian treasure to your travel plans; it’s a place where timeless charm meets modern-day adventure.
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About the Author:
Hello and welcome! My name is Victoria, and I’m a private tour guide in Kyiv. Since 2016, I have been offering private tours on various topics for visitors to the capital of Ukraine. I speak fluent English and love sharing stories. When not guiding, I write about Ukraine on my blog and my travel experiences and insights in Sweden and the Baltics.