Turaida Castle

Family-friendly activities

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.

During the tour, you'll delve into the history and lifestyle of ancient Latvian tribes amidst the breathtaking beauty of Gauna National Park. Highlights include visits to the Livonian Order Castle ruins, the Turaida Medieval Castle dating back to 1214, and the wooden church constructed in 1750. You'll also have the opportunity to explore Gutmanis Cave, the deepest internal erosion cave in the Baltic States, measuring 19m deep, 12m wide, and 10m high. Nestled within Gauna National Park, this natural wonder is rich in myths and legends, adding to its allure. Additionally, you'll have fantastic dining options featuring both traditional Latvian and modern cuisine throughout the tour.

When you are travelling from Tallinn to Riga we can stop in the beautiful old town of Parnu in Estonia, the Latvian medieval castle of Turaida. You will have time to explore Parnu Old Town, have a stop along the highway at the Baltic sea and explore Turaida Castle with a great view from the castle tower over the Gauja river valley, castle has also a museum. Our English speaking driver will give you time to explore Parnu old town, will lead you to the Castle ticket office and you will have time to explore it. If you wish driver will make a stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants. Afterwards you will be delivered to your hotel in Riga.

When you are travelling from Riga to Tallinn we can stop in the Latvian medieval castle of Turaida and the beautiful old town of Parnu in Estonia. You will have time to explore Turaida Castle with a great view from the castle tower over the Gauja river valley, castle has also a museum, have a stop along the highway at the Baltic sea and explore Parnu Old Town. Our English speaking driver will lead you to the Castle ticket office and you will have time to explore it also in Parnu town your will have enough time to explore old town and have a lunch in one of the local restaurants. Afterwards you will be delivered to your hotel in Tallinn.

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.

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.

Step back in time and discover the captivating stories of Turaida Castle, a medieval fortress that has stood strong for over 800 years. Our tailor-made tour will take you on a journey through history, as you explore the castle's stunning architecture and hear tales of battles won and lost. As you wander through the castle's ancient walls, you'll be transported back to a time of knights and nobles. Marvel at the intricate carvings and ornate decorations that adorn the castle's interior, and soak up the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from the castle's towers. Our expert guide will regale you with fascinating stories of the castle's past, from the legendary love story of the Rose of Turaida to the fierce battles that raged around its walls. With plenty of time to explore at your own pace, this is a tailor-made tour that's perfect for history buffs and families alike. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant forests of Sigulda lies one of Latvia's most picturesque castles. Dating back to the 13th century, Sigulda Castle is a true gem of medieval architecture and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Our tailor-made tour will take you on a journey through time, as you discover the rich history and fascinating legends of this ancient fortress. You'll explore the castle's majestic halls, marvel at the intricately carved wooden ceilings, and learn about the castle's many owners and occupants over the centuries. From the castle's stunning location on the banks of the Gauja River, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and have plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect family photo. With our knowledgeable guide by your side, this is a tailor-made tour that's sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Dating back to the 13th century, this impressive Cesis Castle fortress has played a key role in Latvia's history and is one of the best-preserved castles in the country. Our tailor-made tour will take you on a journey through the castle's many rooms and halls, as you discover the fascinating history and legends of this ancient fortress. You'll marvel at the castle's impressive walls and towers, and learn about the many battles and sieges that it has endured over the centuries. Experience a tailor-made bonus surprise tour that will make your vacation unforgettable. Discover the unique attractions of Araisi lake dwelling Archaeological Park – a Unesco World Heritage Site that is an open-air museum, with reconstructed lake dwellings and artifacts from the Stone Age. Or take a trip to the breathtaking Zvartes Rock – an impressive sandstone formation located in the Gauja national park. With a bonus surprise stop according to your interests, this tour will be the highlight of your holiday. Come and explore the wonders of Latvia!

Enjoy this tour of the beautiful Sigulda region, situated in the middle of the Guaja National Park, equipped with a fascinating audio guide for the duration of the tour. The first stop is the 19th-century New Sigulda Castle, previously belonging to Prince Kropotkin of Livonia. Afterwards, pay a visit to the nearby restored ruins of the Old Castle of the Livonian Crusader Order, dating back to the 13th century. Continue the tour for a scenic drive along the banks of the Gauja river to Gutman’s Cave, associated with the legendary romantic tragedy of Turaida Rose. The next stop along the tour is the 13th-century Turaida Castle and its Museum Reserve. Enjoy some free time and take a walk through the fascinating museum before boarding the bus to Krimulda – the mystic place of ancient Livs. Visit an 800-year-old church and wander through the labyrinth of "Lily" before continuing to Ragana (The Yard of the Witch) for some beautiful photos followed by a traditional Latvian dinner served with fresh Latvian beer.

This Mini Baltic Tour will include some of the main sights to see in Latvia. Your first stop will be Sigulda city. In this city, there are many great places you will be able to visit such as the bobsleigh track (during the summer period, you can slide down in a specially designed luge), Gutmana Cave, one of the deepest caves in the Baltics, and Turaida Castle with its beautiful park. On the way to Sigulda, visit Gaujas National Park along with Gauja River. Your next stop will be the secret Soviet bunker, exciting for history and war lovers. Located in Ligatne, you will have guided tour here. The last stop before heading back to Riga will be Cesis, a small but beautiful city with the Cesu Castle.

Step outside cosmopolitan Riga and explore the lush rural areas and towns of Latvia. Experience the charm and character of architecture which has been well-preserved since the Middle Ages.Meet your guide at your hotel in Riga in the morning. Lean back and enjoy a scenic drive to Gauja National Park. Stroll historic Old Cēsis Town and feel the atmosphere of both the historic and modern heart of Latvian culture. Have a look at St. John’s Church, built in the 13th century. Visit a medieval castle erected in 1218. Explore its beautiful park, dark medieval rooms and corridors and find out about its chequered past. Walk along the riverbanks of the longest river in Latvia, the Gauja. See some of the most impressive sandstone cliffs in Latvia and Europe. Inhale the fresh air of northern pine forests and maybe pick up some blueberries on your way.Explore Līgatne, tucked away in the forest.. See a few of the (more than 300) unique man-made caves carved out of the sandstone cliffs. Get to know more about the town’s unique history. Sample some of the wines in the local winery.Then head to famous Sigulda Town and cultural heritage site Turaida Museum Reserve. Snap photos Turaida castle’s picture-postcard viewpoint. Find out more about ancient Latvian poetry, medieval history, Livonian cultural heritage, and historic Latvian lifestyle here.