Latvia : Safety by City
Warnings & Dangers in Latvia
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Travelers in Latvia do not face severe problems and crimes. If you follow the usual precautions and avoid drunken youth near bars and restaurants, you can remain completely safe at any time of the day or night.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transportation is quite safe. However, you should remember about pickpockets. If traveling on your car, be careful on the roads - drivers may not follow traffic laws and drive aggressively.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW
Pickpockets are found - as in any European city - in crowded places and on sights. Always watch your surroundings, and do not lose sight of bags and backpacks. You should also be careful in public transport.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
No natural disasters have ever happened in Latvia, as it is well beyond the danger zone for earthquakes, tornadoes, or volcanoes. In winter, quite severe colds are possible. Take care of warm clothing if traveling during this period.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
Grave robberies and assaults are rare in Latvia. Avoid walking late at night in remote places in cities and don't mess with drunk people. These measures will be enough to avoid severe problems in Latvia.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorist attacks in Latvia is minimal. However, do not exclude them. Be careful not to take part in street demonstrations and rallies. Study the political situation in the country before your visit here.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud occurs in Latvia related to the overpricing of drinks and snacks in bars. However, if you are careful you are unlikely to be able to deceive. Do not take free drinks from strangers, this may be a trap for which you will then have to pay.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women are free to travel in this country. Use common sense and act like you would in your own country. Be careful and prudent at night if you are walking around the city.
How Safe Is Latvia for Tourists?
Latvia, as a whole, is a reasonably safe country.
Serious crimes rarely occur here.
Following the usual precautions, you can be safe here at any time of the day or night.
Corruption and bribery remain the main big problem in Latvia.
Severe or violent crimes are rare in Latvia.
More rarely, tourists get into them.
Use common sense and avoid drunken fights and showdowns at bars.
Fraud and pickpocketing are common.
As for pickpockets, Latvians like their personal space, so in most areas and cases, they have work designed for them.
Try to stay away from large crowds and keep track of your belongings.
If you travel in your car, you should be careful.
The movement can be very aggressive.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Latvia?
Latvia enters the Schengen zone and many countries do not need a visa to enter Latvia for a period of fewer than 90 days. The rest of the stay is regulated as for all Schengen countries. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the planned return date.
Which Currency Is Used in Latvia?
The euro is the official currency in Finland. The euro is divided into 100 cents. It has a sign: € and a code: EUR.
How's the Weather like in Latvia?
The best times to visit Riga for ideal weather are mid-May to mid-September. Average temperatures in Riga vary drastically, and the weather feels cold for about half of the year and otherwise excellent with a little chance of rain or snow throughout the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Latvia?
Latvia has one airport that is used for international flights, namely Riga Airport. The airport is mainly used by Air Baltic; the national flag carrier uses Riga Airport as-is home base. The airport is located in the Mārupe Municipality west of Riga, approx. 10 km from its city center.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Latvia?
Latvia is a country on the Baltic coast between Lithuania and Estonia, which is famous for its wide beaches and vast dense forests. The capital of the country, Riga, attracts tourists thanks to its wooden buildings, art nouveau houses (aka modern), the vast Central Market and the medieval Old Town with St. Peter’s Church. In the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum, you can get acquainted with traditional crafts, music, and cuisine.
Is the Water in Latvia Safe to Drink?
Tap water is safe to drink, but it is not tasty. Water quality is good enough in all the country.
Is Uber Safe in Latvia?
Uber service is not available in Latvia. You can use any other local taxi services.
