
🌎 Latvia 🇱🇻
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📍 Gauja National Park
✈️ Riga International Airport (RIX)
🚗 105.4 KM
⏱️ 1 hour, 58 minutes
Gauja National Park, often called the "Switzerland of Latvia," offers diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The park is highly accessible by car or public transport (trains/buses) from Riga to gateway towns like Sigulda and Cēsis, with well-maintained trails and local buses connecting many key sites; however, some remote areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues. Visitors can easily explore solo, enjoying the extensive network of hiking and cycling paths, or opt for guided tours for activities like canoeing, caving, or historical site deep-dives. While accessible year-round, spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery, summer is ideal for water activities, and winter allows for snow sports, though some facilities may have reduced hours seasonally. Entrance to the park is generally free, with costs primarily arising from transport, accommodation, and specific attractions or guided activities, typically ranging from €10-€50+ per person per day depending on the chosen itinerary. A typical visit can span from a focused day trip from Riga to 3-5 days to fully experience its medieval castles, sandstone cliffs, ancient forests, and outdoor adventures, including the iconic Turaida Museum Reserve, Sigulda bobsled track, and canoeing on the Gauja River.