12 things to do in UNESCO heritage town of Kuldiga

Kuldiga is the most magical town in Latvia. It was founded in 1242 and experienced a period of economic expansion in the 17th century when it became a major centre of commerce, governance, and culture in the Duchy of Courland. Between 1596 and 1616, Kuldiga served as the capital of the Duchy of Courland. Like most Latvian towns, it has a different German name. For Kuldiga it is Goldingen. The historic buildings of the town and its nature create a unique, harmonious ensemble incomparable to anything found in Latvia or elsewhere in Europe. The old town of Kuldiga and the red-brick bridge across the Venta River were included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in September 2023. The town is also famous for the widest waterfall in Europe. Check out my selection of 12 things for you to do in Kuldiga!

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1) Take a tourist train ride through the old town

The train journey begins close to Venta Rapid and takes visitors on a tour of the old town. The old town of Kuldiga almost entirely preserves the original layout and historical street network from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Historic buildings such as town hall, schools, churches, hotels, and culture and craft centres continue to serve the same purpose they were initially built for. I recommend disembarking at the Town Hall Square and continuing your journey on foot.

10 kuldiga latvia thesanetravel.com 128057311 train thesanetravel.comP128060013 train kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1280546Practical tip

Tourist train Ludis departs from a parking lot at Stendes iela 2a, near Venta Rapid, every round hour from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.  April through October.

2) See the Old Town Hall and Town Hall Square

The Old Town Hall of Kuldiga was constructed in the second half of the 17th century. In 2016, after renovations, its doors were opened again, and now it houses studios for traditional folk arts, a tourism information centre, and a modest exhibition hall. Previously, the Town Hall Square was utilized as a market square. 20 town hall kuldiga thesanetravel.comP187046023 town hall kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128073323 town square kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1280584Close to the town hall is a monument in honour of renowned Latvian actor Evalds Valters, who spent his youth in Kuldiga and passed away at the age of 100.24 town hall kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1980259

3) Check out the chest of the Swedish King at Stavenhagen’s House

The house was constructed in the 17th century and served as the home of Kuldiga's mayor. In 1701, King Karl XII of Sweden stayed there and left a chest in its antechamber, which was used to store the king's clothing. The chest can still be seen today; just open the door and step into the hall where it can be viewed from both sides. Additionally, the house is also home to the largest mantle chimney in Courland.25 Stavenhagen kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128060426 Stavenhagen kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128060527 Stavenhagen kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1980376

Address: Baznicas iela 17

4) Admire the Baroque interior of the Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity

Constructed during the 17th century at the behest of the Polish King, this three-bay building was created to confirm Duke Jacob's succession to the throne of Kurzeme. Its exterior aesthetic was influenced by the Italian Renaissance, whereas the interior was adorned with sculptures and intricate decorations typical of the Baroque style with a strong Rococo influence. Notable artworks include a 16th-century Madonna and Child sculpture and a 19th-century Church altar.30 trinity kuldiga thesanetravel.comP128058132 trinity kuldiga thesanetravel.comP128058833 trinity kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1280590Address: Raina iela 6a

5) Gaze at the statue of Jacob Kettler, the Duke of Courland

Jacob Kettler, better known as Duke Jacob (1610–1682), was born in Kuldiga. Under his rule, the Duchy of Courland enjoyed extraordinary wealth and even engaged in colonisation. He is remembered as a fair ruler who spoke Latvian and was well-disposed towards the local peasants. In honour of his 400th birthday, the statue Teleport was placed at the end of Liepaja Street. The front of the sculpture is made from aluminium and symbolises the 21st century, whereas the back is made from iron and refers to the 17th century.35 ketller kuldiga thesanetravel.comP128053736 ketller kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1280544

Address: Liepajas iela

6) Visit Saint Catherine’s Church

Saint Catherine’s Church, first built in 1252, is the oldest church in Kuldiga. A metal medallion with an image of Saint Catherine can be seen over the side door of the church. The medallion is also an emblem of Kuldiga because Catherine, who holds a rudder in her right hand and a spear, a symbol of power, in her left hand, is the town's patroness. The coat of arms of Kuldiga features Saint Catherine holding a torture wheel in her hand on a red background. A legend tells us about a pious girl, Katrina, who saved money to build a church in her town. She was, however, slandered and put to death on the wheel for her alleged contacts with the devil himself. After her death, she was found innocent and declared a saint.  Originally, it was a wooden church, but in 1567, the building of a stone church began. Throughout the centuries, the church has been renovated several times. Duke Jacob was christened in this church.41 caterine kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128060742 caterine kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1280609Address: Baznicas iela 31/33

7) Go for a walk along Aleksupite Waterfall

The Aleksupite River flows directly along the walls of many buildings, which is why Kuldiga has been called the Venice of Latvia.  The 4.5-metre-high Aleksupite Waterfall was built on the river in the 17th century. The stream was used to operate the first paper mill in Kurzeme. An annual race is held on the Aleksupite, where the contestants run along the river bottom.45 aleksupite kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1280617

8) Take a picture of the historic brick bridge

One of the widest brick bridges in Europe has always attracted visitors to Kuldiga. The 164-metre-long bridge was built in 1874 over the Venta River. It is the longest road bridge of this kind in Europe. The bridge, with seven spans of brick arches and boulder abutments, was not only the largest and most ornate on the territory of Latvia but also one of the most modern of its time in the whole of Europe. It was built according to Russian Tsarist road standards: 11 metres wide, allowing two carriages to pass each other on it. The bridge was renovated in 2008.

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9) Step in the waters of the river at Venta Rapid

The widest naturally formed waterfall in Europe (249 metres wide) is associated with several legends and historical events. 55 venta rapid kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128062956 venta rapid kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1280669Back in the day, Duke Jacob invented fishing devices installed on the waterfall, so Kuldiga was known as the city where salmons were caught in the air. One could catch as many as a hundred fish a day. An exciting phenomenon occurs every autumn and spring when fish try to clear the rapid by jumping over it. Every year, at the end of April, Kuldiga hosts the Flying Fish Festival.57 venta rapid kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102748958 venta rapid kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1027512

10) Visit the Kuldiga District Museum

Bangert's Villa, a wooden architecture of great historical significance, is home to the Kuldiga District Museum. On the second floor, visitors can see a furnished apartment representing the lifestyle of a well-off citizen of Kuldiga in the early 20th century. The third floor hosts the exhibition Kuldiga before us, offering an introduction to the history, origins, and development of the town. Admission to the museum is complimentary.60 museum kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1280644Address: Pils iela 5

11) Walk around Kuldiga Town Garden

Located in the oldest part of Kuldiga, the town garden has a long history. It was established at the end of the 19th century and was previously the site of a Livonian Order Castle and the residence of the Dukes of Courland. The garden features a pond with a fountain, gazebos, an observation deck, sculptures, and bridges, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists for walking and other leisure activities.65 garden kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128064866 garden kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128071267 garden kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1280715

12) Dine at Restaurant Bangert’s

The restaurant is situated in the picturesque old town, right by the Venta River, in the vicinity of the Kuldiga County Museum and the Town Garden. It is named in remembrance of Captain Bangert, who is said to have bought a house from Paris for his bride and built it by the Venta Rapid. The restaurant was designed to replicate the residence of Mr Bangert and is a great spot for a cosy chat or a relaxed moment. It has two terraces and a balcony with a stunning view of the Venta Rapid and the old brick bridge. 69 bangerts kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128064070 bangerts kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP128063970 restaurant kuldiga thesanetravel.comP187043171 restaurant kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1870436Not to mention, the food served at the restaurant is delicious.72 restaurant kuldiga thesanetravel.comP187043773 restaurant kuldiga thesanetravel.comP1870440Address: Pils iela 5

Where to stay

Hotel Virkas Muiza

The four-star Boutique Hotel Virkas muiza is situated in a 16th-century estate constructed by the Baron Fircks family. Located near Kuldiga, the hotel is currently in an urban setting. The old town, including noteworthy attractions, is a mere 15-minute walk away. The hotel has 22 rooms of varied design and size, with three suites on the second floor. One suite is equipped with a bathtub, while another boasts an impressive and spacious balcony, which is often used by newlyweds. Pets are allowed in the hotel.74 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102983175 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102987476 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102984077 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102984581 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP102986980 virkas muiza kuldiga sthesanetravel.comP1029863

Address: Virkas iela 27

Practical information

The distance to Kuldiga from Riga is almost 150 kilometres. You can do Kuldiga sightseeing as a day trip from Riga by public bus departing from Riga Central Bus Station 12 times a day. The travel time one way takes at least 2.5 hours. Everything in Kuldiga is within walking distance so it should be easy. Check out the Kuldiga event calendar before your visit! In spring, do not miss the Flying Fish Festival in late April. Summer comes to Kuldiga with a variety of exciting events. The most popular event is the traditional Kuldiga Town Festival, held on the 3rd weekend of July. In October, you should visit the Trade Fair of Courland Duke.

Like Kuldiga? You are welcome to visit other Latvian cities!

Have you visited Latvia? What is your favourite place in the country? Share in the comments section!Kuldiga 12 S

Anita 03 18

About the author
Anita is a part-time traveller, passionate photographer and a retired career woman from Latvia, 
travelling mostly solo for more than 15 years. She is a skilled travel planner who plans and executes her travels by herself. Anita wants to show you how to travel the world and open your mind to new experiences. Follow her on FacebookInstagramPinterestTwitter and Bloglovin.

 

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Ankita Sharma
Such a beautiful place. I love your post.
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Brooke
I Have not yet made it to Latvia but it's certainly a place I'm interested in. Would be curious to know about other regional dishes and also about what drinks are traditional (liquors, wines etc)!
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Ami
This is really a beautiful and quaint little town. I love the old Town that you have shot. I bet there are a lot stories hidden there. I loved all your pics... Beautifully taken
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Adrenaline Romance
Driving that train car looks so much fun! We would also like to take a dip on that river. :) This is what we love about visiting quiet towns like these----picturesque, quiet, and so full of life and culture.
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oursweetadventures
This seems like a very nice quiet city. I always enjoy looking at older buildings and learning the history or a long established city. The teleportation piece is incredible. It really is truly amazing what they did there. I am a sucker for waterfalls and I know I would really enjoy Europe's widest waterfall. The brick bridge is nothing short of amazing as well
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Punita Malhotra
Kuldiga is just the kind of town that I would enjoy spending some time in. This is the first time I've heard of it and now I'm adding it to my Latvia list. That statue is fascinating.
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Sara Essop
I've never heard of Kuldīga before but it looks so beautiful and charming - straight out of a storybook. I'd love to visit it when I get to visit Latvia one day.
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Ania Travels
Oh this looks like such a cute charming little town. I've never been to Latvia but definitely want to. These photos are beautiful too.
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Julz
Have never been to any of these small countries! This little town looks so charming and quaint! Would love to go!
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Aisha
Wow this place looks like its straight out of a fairytale! Charming, quaint, authentic and so very well preserved! Your photos do it great justice but the information is even more inspiring, definitely worth a visit!
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Ana Ro
I just love your posts about Latvia! I come from Lithuania, and travel to Latvia rather often, but always feel I could have a bit more information to appreciate it better.
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Lisa
Latvia is on my bucket list. Kuldiga looks amazing.
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Carolina
Bicycled through Latvia last summer and I loved the country. Didn't go to Kuldiga though. Now I tell everyone I meet they have to go on a bike trip to Latvia. Maybe I go back another time to visit Kuldiga, it Looks amazing!
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Kathleen
What a beautiful town. I wish I would have know of it when we lived in Latvia for a short time. It's so bright and cheery.
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jin
It certainly does look like the most charming town in Latvia! I regret not traveling outside of Riga and exploring more of Latvia, but we were on a time schedule, as we were overstaying our 3 months in the Schengen region. I certainly want to go back to Latvia and visit this cute little city - your photos are great, too!

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