Welcome to Latvia 😊

Quick Facts About Latvia

Money and Finances

The currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 Euros. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Euros.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Latvia, especially in major cities like Riga. Many accept international cards, but it's always a good idea to check with your bank before traveling to ensure your specific card will work.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in Latvia, especially in urban areas, and Visa and Mastercard are widely used. American Express is accepted in some places, but not as commonly as the other two major providers. It's always a good idea to carry cash as a backup, especially when traveling to more rural areas.

Internet and Phones

Latvia has an average internet speed of 25 Mbps for downloads and 15Mbps for uploads. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Some popular telco companies in Latvia are Tele2, LMT, and Bite. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 10-15 EUR per month. Sim compatibility is not a major issue.

Dialling to Latvia

To call Latvia from another country, dial +371 followed by the phone number. When dialling within Latvia, use the area code with a 0 prefix.

Transport Around Latvia

Air Travel

Latvia has one major international airport, Riga International Airport, located in the capital city of Riga.

Train Travel

Latvia has an inter-city train network operated by Pasažieru vilciens. A one-way ticket from Riga to the second largest city, Daugavpils, costs around 10 euros and takes approximately 3.5 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

Latvia does not have a metro system in any of its major cities.

Buses

Latvia has a well-developed bus network operated by several companies such as Lux Express and Ecolines. A one-way ticket from Riga to Tallinn in Estonia costs around 20 euros and takes approximately 4.5 hours.

Rideshare

Rideshare service Bolt operates in Latvia, with average prices for a 10km journey around 6 euros.

Driving by Car

Driving in Latvia is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and good signage. The speed limit in residential areas is 50 km/h, while on motorways it's 110 km/h. Latvia uses right hand drive.

Local Customs

In Latvia, tipping is common in restaurants, with the standard amount being around 10%. Locals generally greet each other with a handshake. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to maintain eye contact and use formal language until you are invited to use more casual language. Men and women address each other with their first names, but it is still important to use formal language until a closer relationship is established.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Latvia has a public healthcare system, which is funded by the government. It provides free medical care to Latvian citizens and residents, and its services are of a high standard. However, it can be quite expensive for non-residents and tourists to access healthcare. A visit to a private doctor can cost anywhere between 30-80 euros, depending on the type of consultation.

COVID Situation

Latvia has taken a proactive approach to combating the coronavirus pandemic. The government quickly implemented strict measures such as lockdowns, mandatory masks, and social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus. As of August 2021, the COVID-19 case rate in Latvia is relatively low compared to neighboring European countries.

Common Health Risks

There are several health risks that visitors to Latvia should be aware of, including tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and encephalitis. Malaria is not present in Latvia, but there have been cases of food poisoning caused by contaminated water and food. Travelers should also be cautious of exposure to the cold, particularly during winter months when temperatures can drop very low.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Latvia, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is allowed in public places, but it is prohibited to drink alcohol in some areas such as near schools or hospitals. Drunk driving is strictly prohibited and can lead to severe consequences.

Recreational Drugs

The use, possession, and sale of recreational drugs, including cannabis and other party drugs, is illegal in Latvia and can lead to imprisonment. The penalty can range from fines, community service, to imprisonment depending on the severity of the violation.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are legal and common in Latvia. However, adultery is still considered a crime in Latvia and can lead to fines and imprisonment.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

LGBTQ rights are still limited in Latvia. Same-sex marriage is not legal, and the country has yet to recognize civil unions. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is still present in Latvia, and hate crimes are not uncommon.

Firearms / Guns

Latvia has strict laws on firearms and guns. It is illegal to carry a firearm in public unless one has obtained a proper license and registration. Possession of firearms for self-defense is not allowed, and the use of deadly force is only permitted in extreme circumstances.