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Things to do in Sigulda

Our most recommended things to do in Sigulda

Riga: Private Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park Tour

1. Riga: Private Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park Tour

Embark on a personal and immersive adventure on a private van tour from Riga to Sigulda and Turaida. Customize your itinerary to your preferences and visit sights such as Gauja National Park, Sigulda Manor and Castle, and Turaida Castle. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle and watch the landscape change from city streets to lush greenery as you head out of Riga. Make your way to Sigulda, a town near the river Gauja that is also known as the Switzerland of Latvia by locals. Marvel at the Gauja valley with its dense forests, meandering river, and the Gauja National Park. Stop to stroll through the park before seeing the Sigulda Medieval Castle ruins, the new Sigulda Castle, the Turaida Castle museum with its watchtower peering above the trees, and Gutman's Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries. Cross the river on the optional cable car ride for a different perspective of the region or enjoy a glass of local wine made in the Cremon Winery at Krimulda Manor. See local craftsmen and women at work to gain an insight into local and cultural life before heading back to Riga. This half day tour is a must for those who have visited Riga and Jurmala before and is especially recommended for bloggers and social media fans.

From Riga: Full-Day Scenic Gauja River Valley Kayaking Trip

2. From Riga: Full-Day Scenic Gauja River Valley Kayaking Trip

Meet your guide in the morning and head to Gauja River Valley to begin your kayaking trip. The curving, wild nature of the Gauja River and its tributaries makes this experience one to remember, and a must-visit for travelers who like to venture off the beaten path. During your kayaking tour, see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Gauja River Valley, including stunning steep riverbanks, awesome sandstone cliffs, the dense forests of Gauja National Park, and more. Your eco-tour leader will engage you with a special “improv-travel” approach and tell you about the nature, culture, and traditions of Latvia. Paddle for 15 to 20 kilometers downstream on a truly enjoyable adventure. There are several alternative points to finish on the way so the length of the trip can be adjusted according to your wishes. After reaching your final destination, benefit from a transfer right back to your hotel in Riga, or stay in the scenic town of Sigulda.

Sigulda Day Tour - Castle Ruins, Gūtmaņala Grotto, & More

3. Sigulda Day Tour - Castle Ruins, Gūtmaņala Grotto, & More

There is so much to see and do in Sigulda that sometimes it is difficult to fit it all in. This comprehensive tour led by a professional guide, is designed to show you around the historic highlights of the city in just a day. Ride the aerial cableway in Sigulda. Opened in 1969, this is the only one of its kind in the Baltic States. The cableway was built in cooperation between Sigulda and Chiatura, a city in Georgia, and offers spectacular views over the city. Explore the Sigulda castle ruins and the new castle. The Order of the Brothers of the Sword began building Sigulda castle in 1207. During the Great Northern War, the castle was destroyed never to be restored again. However the convent building with its famous gothic window plus the main gate tower still stand, and offer an insight into a bygone age. Delve deep into the Gūtmaņala grotto. This is the most popular and vast cave in Latvia. It was formed in the course of 10,000 years by water gradually eroding sandstone, and is a protected geological site. The cave is the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia. Marvel at the ancient inscriptions lining the walls. A trip to the Turaida Museum Reserve should not be missed. The 42 hectares of the reserve feature archaeological, architectural, historical, and art monuments, dating back from the 11th century.

From Riga: Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour

4. From Riga: Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour

Take a full-day tour of the beautiful green area of Northern Latvia. Explore Cēsis (the ancient city of Livonia and Brothers of the Sword base) and the picturesque town of Sigulda. Enjoy a day of rich history with medieval monuments, as well as spectacular natural scenery. Trip Itinerary: Medieval castle ruins of Cēsis You experience the castle in a way the people did centuries ago — your guides will light up a candle in the lantern and you will be on our way. You will explore the dark stairs, medieval corridors, and rooms with the help of candlelight as there is no electricity in this 13th century castle. This complex of castle buildings, preserved for centuries, is regarded as a landmark of monumental architecture, which reflects artistic styles from the Livonian period. Cēsis St. John’s Church St. John’s Church is one of the oldest medieval architectural monuments in Latvia. The church was built in the beginning of the 13th century when Cēsis became one of the most important German power centers in the Baltics, from 1237 up to 1561. Medieval castle ruins of Sigulda The Order of the Brothers of the Sword began building Sigulda castle in 1207. Initially, it was a castellum-type fort. Following the defeat of the Brothers of the Sword in 1236, the Livonian Order modified it. Goodman's cave The Gūtmaņala (Goodman's Cave) grotto is the most popular and biggest cave in Latvia. It was formed over the course of 10,000 years by water gradually eroding sandstone. The grotto is a protected geological site and the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia. Museum reserve and medieval castle of Turaida Turaida Museum Reserve is a beautiful heritage site and former village that was named "garden of the gods" by the locals. Turaida is a wonderful place to get to know the Latvian way of life, culture, history, and spirit. The 42 hectares of grounds are replete with archaeological, architectural, historical and art monuments, all of which provide an account of the events from the eleventh century onwards.

Sigulda Hiking Tour: A Day in the Switzerland of Latvia

5. Sigulda Hiking Tour: A Day in the Switzerland of Latvia

Enjoy a full-day hiking tour in one of the Latvia's most picturesque regions. Known as the Switzerland of Latvia, the area features mountains, valleys, cliffs, and caves. Take in views of the Gauja River Valley as you cross it by the aerial cableway. Your 15-kilometer guided hike will take you through the area’s natural landscapes and through populated areas as well. You’ll help set the pace for the tour, and there’s no need to rush, as there’s plenty of time to cover the entire route. The hiking route takes you past numerous attractions, including the ruins of the old Sigulda castle, the new castle, and Goodman's Cave. Goodman’s Cave was formed over a 10,000-year period by water gradually eroding sandstone. The grotto is a protected geological site and the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia. You’ll see inscriptions on its walls dating back to 1668 and 1677. You’ll hike to Piķenes Cliff and the Little Devil's Cave, and take in spectacular views from the Velnalas Cliff overlook as well.

Private Day Trip to Cesis, Sigulda and Turaida Castles

6. Private Day Trip to Cesis, Sigulda and Turaida Castles

Discover the charming towns of Cesis, Sigulda, and Turaida on this private day trip from Riga. Learn basic historical information from your driver, as well as the best restaurants to stop for lunch. Depart from Riga with private transport and head to Cesis, where you'll find an 800-year-old medieval castle. Learn about its connection to the town's history and its continued expansion during the years. Then head to Āraiši Lake Castle Archaeological Park, where you can visit the castle, nominated as the Latvian archaeological monument of 2021. Check out the permanent exposition with fascinating archeological finds from the area. Next, it's on to the Livonian Order Castle in Sigulda, built in 1207, and current host to the International Sigulda Opera Music Festival. Finally head to the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you'll discover archaeology, culture, and art dating back to the 11th century. Please note that from 1st of November to 30th of April Cesis Castle museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. During this time we will be able to see Castle only from outside, we'll do walk thru Cesis old town part.

From Riga: Day Trip to Sigulda and Cesis with Hotel Pickup

7. From Riga: Day Trip to Sigulda and Cesis with Hotel Pickup

Your guide and driver will meet you in Riga and take you to Sigulda, which is around 35 minutes drive. Sigulda is a town, located in the picturesque Gauja valley and called "the Switzerland of Latvia". Firstly you will have a walk through Sigulda, later will visit the Gutman's cave and Turaida reservoir (entrance). Continue to Cesis - the medieval town, which cobbled streets have remained the same as during the Middle ages, preserving the medieval buildings with red tiled roofs, enclosed backyards and facades. Back to Riga in the late afternoon. At the extra cost and availability you can try the bobsleigh ride in Sigulda, as they have one of the biggest bobsleigh tracks in Eastern Europe.

Mini Baltic Tour: Riga to Parnu tour

8. Mini Baltic Tour: Riga to Parnu tour

This will be an amazing opportunity to turn your boring 4-hour transfer from Riga to Tallinn or from Tallinn to Riga into a much more interesting and fun journey. In all, the tour will take up to 9-hours. Your first stop, if traveling from Riga to Tallinn, will be Sigudla. There, you will visit a bobsleigh track, Gutmana Cave and Turaida Castle. In addition, see amazing sights from the top of a mountain (Gauja River). Your next stop will be at Ligatne, this is an optional choice. If you would like to see the Secret Soviet Bunker, you will be taken there. Only guided tours for an additional fee are available at certain times (but your booking will be taken care of for you). After this, make a short stop to see Cesu Castle and then Parnu. Here, you will walk by the sea and see the small Parnu city. The last stop will be in Tallinn. The driver will drop you off at your hotel or city center or even the airport, whichever you prefer. If you are traveling from Tallinn to Riga, then all the same stops would be made along the way.

Discover Best of Sigulda and Gauja National Park In One Day

9. Discover Best of Sigulda and Gauja National Park In One Day

Beginning the tour with a pick-up from the meeting point at 8:00 AM in Riga. Taking around an hour to drive to Sigulda Town.  Explore nature's trails and local highlights in one amazing day. You’ll get in touch both with the pristine nature of Gauja National Park and the cultural legacy of the area. Hiking several short but amazing hiking trails. Yet, be ready for some 10-15 km on your feet during this unforgettable day. Wander along the beautiful banks of the second biggest river in Latvia – Gauja. Upon reaching the Gauja National Park, where the adventure starts, either in Sigulda, or Krimulda of Turaida. Not rushing as you will get a chance to visit all the major sightseeing sites around Sigulda, Krimulda, and Turaida, including Sigulda and Turaida castles. Then be comfortably returned to your hotel in Riga at the end of the tour.

Riga: Full-Day Mini Day Tour to Sigulda & Cesis

10. Riga: Full-Day Mini Day Tour to Sigulda & Cesis

This mini day tour will allow you to experience some of the main sights in the Latvian countryside. The main cities that you will visit will be Sigulda and Cesis. In Sigulda, there will be a lot to see like the bobsleigh track, Turaida Castle, Sigulda Castle and Gutmana Cave.  At each place, you will be able to try out different activities. For example, at the bobsleigh track during the summer and winter, you will have the opportunity to slide down the track with 'soft bobs' (additional cost) or see the beautiful Sigulda Castle and Turaida Castle, ruins and its beautiful garden. Last but not least, stop by Gutmana Cave and learn about the many legends which surround this cave. After visiting beautiful Sigulda, your next stop will be in Cesis. There, you will be able to see the city and visit Cesu Castle. If you see any interesting places on the way for sightseeing or to take pictures, don't hesitate to ask the driver to stop.

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What people are saying about Sigulda

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 74 reviews

Great tour to medieval castles. Marija was professional and informative. We enjoyed the beautiful ride into the country side to reach the small villages and medieval ruins. This is a perfect tour to learn history and get out of the city to see more of rural Latvia. Highly recommended!

Had an enjoyable, informative and engaging tour of Sigulda, Turaida and Cesis. Our guide was very knowledgeable on the history of the towns and castles, and readily answered our many questions. A great day out!

The tour is excellent. Tour guide is very friendly. I will suggest for future should provide a bottle water for everyone and the car should need to have air conditioner

It was a perfect and round day full of highlights. Our guide Rihards was fantastic; young, interested, experienced and always friendly. Any time! Full points!

Richard was great!!!! So knowledgeable and friendly!!!! Would 100% recommend this tour to everybody visiting the country!