Just an hour away from Riga, the picturesque town of Sigulda and the nearby Turaida Museum Reserve offer a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Often called the “Switzerland of Latvia,” Sigulda is nestled in the Gauja River Valley, with rolling hills, lush forests, and breathtaking river views. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, a day trip here provides an unforgettable experience.
How to Get from Riga to Sigulda
Getting to Sigulda is easy and convenient. By train, services depart regularly from Riga Central Station, taking about 50–60 minutes with return fares costing only €6. For more flexibility, hiring a car is also an option with Sigulda being approximately 70 km from Riga via the A2 highway. On arrival we found the centre to be easily walkable although I would recommend using taxis or local buses to reach attractions slightly further afield.
Starting our adventure at the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track
We started our day at the Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Track which is one of the few in Eastern Europe where visitors can experience the thrill of a bobsleigh ride. During our visit the track was being used for training but if you are an adrenaline junkie then you can take rides with trained drivers to feel the excitement of the track safely.
This is also possible in summer with bobsleighs running on wheels. Visitors can take the lift to the top of the viewing tower for panoramic views of the track, Gauja river and town centre. Sigulda Bobsleigh
Exploring Sigulda’s Old and New Castles
No visit to Sigulda is complete without exploring its historic castles. The Sigulda Old Castle, built by the Livonian Order in the 13th century sits on a rocky hill overlooking the river. We wandered through the preserved ruins, climbed the medieval towers and imagined life in this fortified stronghold. Exhibitions and craft displays also bring the castle’s rich history to life.
Nearby, the Sigulda New Castle, built in the 19th century, reflects elegant classical architecture. Once home to local nobility, it now houses cultural spaces and administrative offices. We admired the elegant exterior, manicured gardens and interior highlights. Together the Old and New Castles showcase Sigulda’s transformation from a strategic medieval outpost to a culturally refined town.
Discover Sigulda’s Walking Sticks and Scenic Trails
The town’s famous Sigulda walking sticks handcrafted for over 200 years symbolising strength and adventure are perfect for exploring the region’s stunning trails as well as souvenirs of the town. We followed a trail around Sigulda Walking Stick Park which has been designed as a tribute to this proud local craft.
Turaida Museum Reserve: Castle, Sculpture Trail & Old Church
A short distance from Sigulda lies the Turaida Museum Reserve, a cultural gem of Latvian heritage. The reconstructed Turaida Castle sits above the Gauja River, offering medieval towers, historical exhibits, and stunning viewpoints.
We followed the Turaida Sculpture Trail, looked inside the Turaida Old Church, and explored the small museums that highlight the region’s art, culture, and history. Adult entry is €8 and well worth the entrance fee as it covers so much. Turaida Castle and Reserve
Lunch at Pie Viitoliem
We enjoyed a late lunch at Restaurant Pie Viitoliem in Sigulda’s town centre. This cosy bistro is known for its tempting salads and potato pancakes so we sampled them both and were very impressed. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers hearty Latvian favourites in a relaxed atmosphere.
Explore Gutmanis Cave
Within the reserve is Gutmanis Cave, the largest sandstone cave in the Baltics. Carved naturally into the riverbank it measures approximately 18m long, 12m wide, and 10m high. The walls are covered with inscriptions some dating back hundreds of years left by travellers and lovers giving the site both a historical and romantic significance. The cave is linked to the legend of Maija and Victor, Latvia’s version of Romeo and Juliet. Easily accessible on foot from Turaida Castle, Gutmanis Cave is free to visit as part of the museum reserve grounds.
Take a scenic ride on the Sigulda Cable Car
The Sigulda Cable Car is one of Latvia’s most iconic attractions spanning the Gauja River Valley and offering some of the best views in the region. Originally opened in 1976, the cable car was built to connect the town with Turaida and Krimulda, serving both as practical transport and a tourist attraction.
The ride covers around 1.5 km (0.9 miles) and lasts roughly 7 minutes each way. As the cable car glided over the valley, we viewed the Gauja River, wooded slopes and castle ruins with Turaida Castle visible in the distance. This elevated vantage point was perfect for photography especially as our visit was in autumn when the valley was a palette of vibrant yellow, orange and brown hues. Tickets are reasonably priced at €5. Sigulda Cable Car
Final thoughts:
Located just under an hour from Riga, Sigulda is an ideal destination for a day trip with its unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Unlike Riga, which is bustling and urban, Sigulda offers the contrast of a day in the Gauja River Valley with its forests, castles and cable car.
We were guests of the Latvian Tourist Board, and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.
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