travel riga to jurmala

A Perfect Day Trip to Jurmala From Riga, Latvia

If you’re spending a couple of days in the Latvian capital and looking for the best things to do in Riga , be sure to plan a day trip to Jurmala!

Jurmala is a famous and very picturesque resort town located on the Gulf of Riga just 25 km from the capital city. It is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches , stretching for about 33 kilometers along the Baltic Sea coast.

Moreover, it offers relaxing spa experiences , opportunities for outdoor activities in the lush pine forests, and a vibrant cultural scene with art galleries and summer festivals .

However, what’s the most special part about Jurmala is the town’s unique charm which lies in its well-preserved wooden architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

There are many awesome things to see and do on a day in Jurmala and in this blog post, I’m sharing the best ones you shouldn’t miss. And, of course, the most important thing: How to reach Jurmala !

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

How to Get to Jurmala, Latvia

To reach Jurmala, you have several options to choose from.

Visit Jurmala by Train

Taking the train is one of the most convenient and cheapest ways to get to Jurmala from Riga. The train departs from Riga Central Station, and there are regular services throughout the day .

The journey usually takes around 30-40 minutes , and the train stations in Jurmala are conveniently located near the city center, especially if you get off at Majori Station.

I also took the train and found the journey to be quite relaxing and I loved watching the Latvian landscape pass by !

TIP : Use Omio to find the best connections from Riga to Jurmala.

Visit Jurmala by Bus

Another option is to use the public bus service. Riga and Jurmala are well-connected by bus routes, and there are various bus stops throughout the city where you can catch a bus to Jurmala.

The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes , depending on traffic conditions. While it may take slightly longer than the train, buses offer more flexibility in terms of departure points and timings.

So if you’re not staying close to the central train station, you might want to check out the bus schedule!

Other Transport Options

If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of traveling by car , renting one is a good choice. The drive from Riga to Jurmala is straightforward and takes approximately 30 minutes , depending on traffic.

You can follow the A10 highway , which is well-maintained and signposted, making it easy to find your way to the resort city. Keep in mind that parking might be limited , especially during peak tourist seasons.

For the more adventurous and eco-conscious travelers, biking to Jurmala can be a fun experience! Dedicated bike paths connect Riga to Jurmala, offering scenic views of the Latvian countryside and the beach.

The journey may take around 1.5-2 hours , depending on your cycling pace and starting point in Riga.

Last but not least, if you want you can also take a guided half-day tour to Jurmala which already includes transportation.

Top 5 Best Things to See & Do in Jurmala

As already mentioned, there’s a lot to do in Jurmala. To avoid putting too much on your agenda and possibly even getting stressed out as a result, I put together a list of the top 5 things to see & do.

These things guarantee that you’ll get the full experience without rushing from one spot to another.

1. Jurmala Beach

Probably the most famous part of Jurmala is its beach, which stretches along the Gulf of Riga for about 33 kilometers, making it one of the longest beaches in Northern Europe .

The most popular area at Jurmala Beach is the central part, which is often referred to as the “Majori Beach.” There you can bask in the sun, swim in the refreshing waters of the Baltic Sea, or take long leisurely walks along the shoreline

If you’re seeking more adventurous activities , Majori Beach offers opportunities for water sports. Jet skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are popular options, and equipment rentals are available along the beach.

If you decided to stay in Jurmala until the evening, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Baltic sunset from Majori Beach ! it’s one of the best in all of Latvia!

2. Jomas Street

Not only is a section of Jurmala Beach named Majori, but the entire neighborhood. Of course, the main attraction of Majori is its stunning sandy beach, but there is one part of the area that is just as worthy of being seen !

Jomas Street is the vibrant and lively heart of Majori. This pedestrian street stretches for about 1.3 kilometers and is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

The street has a long history dating back to the 19th century when it served as a connecting route between the train station and the beach.

Thanks to its cobblestone pavement and colorful wooden buildings it kept its enchanting and nostalgic atmosphere.

Jomas Street is also a culinary paradise , offering a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and other eateries. From traditional Latvian cuisine to international flavors, you can savor a diverse range of dishes while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

One place I can recommend is Cafe 53 . I tried their Lobio , a traditional Georgian bean stew and it was absolutely delicious! Plus the prices are very fair .

Make sure to check out the many charming boutiques and shops selling souvenirs, unique gifts, and local handicrafts.

3. Our Lady of Kazan Church

At the end of Jomas Street, you can find a beautiful Orthodox church called Our Lady of Kazan Church. For people who are not used to seeing Orthodox churches, this one will be especially striking .

The church is very beautiful with lots of bright colors , tall onion-shaped domes on top, and bells that play a lovely melody every hour. It was constructed in 2010 and is therefore a rather new addition to the city’s architectural landscape.

Despite its recent construction, the church follows traditional Russian Orthodox design principles , reflecting the influence of the religion in this area.

Although it’s most striking from the outside, it’s worth going inside as well. The interior is adorned with religious pictures, murals showing biblical scenes , and fancy decorations that make the place look very grand.

4. Historic Wooden Houses

Another thing you’ll find in Jurmala is a great number of historic wooden houses that add to the neighborhood’s unique charm and character .

These well-preserved architectural gems date back to the 19th century when Jurmala was a popular resort destination – which, of course, it is still today.

Many of them feature intricate woodwork , decorative carvings, and colorful facades , making each house a unique and captivating piece of art.

Simply take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy the sight of the charming old wooden houses along the way!

5. Dzintari Forest Park

Last but not least, plan a short visit to Dzintari Forest Park, a lush green space that offers a refreshing getaway in nature. The park has well-marked walking paths , perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoyable hikes.

One of the park’s highlights is its rich variety of plants and animals , providing a home to various bird species and wildlife.

Throughout the park, you’ll find charming spots for picnics , cozy benches, and open areas to relax, read, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.

If you prefer to be more active, the park provides many opportunities for cycling and jogging along designated paths.

It’s a wrap!

As you see, Jurmala is truly a place worth seeing and undoubtedly the perfect address if you want to escape city life and spend a relaxing day at the beach or in nature .

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Do you want to travel like me? Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:

Flights: I prefer using CheapOair or Skyscanner to book flights. The destination everywhere feature is perfect for finding some cheap deals! Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals. I do love staying at a local place as well, thus I book an Airbnb every now and then. Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without having one. I use the simple and flexible one from World Nomads to be protected against unforeseen events. Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide . Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.   

Hey and welcome to my blog! I’m Alina, an Austrian travel addict and vegan food lover who has a passion for exploring new destinations and trying out the best plant-based food around the world. Come and join me as I share exciting bucket list experiences and provide helpful travel guides for your own adventures!

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Jurmala by Train looks so nice. Cool beach side on their also street walk was very nice.

Jurmala is really cool!

beautiful place, thank you for creating this article

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Riga to Jūrmala by train

Travel from Riga (Latvia) to Jūrmala (Latvia) by train (21km): schedule and information to the train connection. Compare fares and buy your ticket.

To travel by train from Riga to Jūrmala in Latvia, please read the following information.

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Cheap train tickets! Buy your train ticket online on Omio. The easy to use booking system with very good prices and e-tickets.

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train company: LDz Latvijas dzelzceļš / LUX Lux Express

train connections: popular connections travelled by other users Jūrmala - Riga / Riga - Tukums / Riga - Jelgava / Riga - Daugavpils / Riga - Alūksne / Riga - Madona / Jelgava - Liepāja

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Trip 2 Riga

Trip 2 Riga: Day Trip from Rīga to Jūrmala

Exploring the charms and beauty of jūrmala: a sandy beach seaside paradise on the baltic sea.

Jūrmala Sandy Seaside Beach (2023) , Latvia (Photo by Author )

Trip 2 Riga offers valuable insights and actionable ideas about the top activities and places to visit in Riga, Latvia, and throughout the Baltics. Sign up now to receive our free newsletter directly in your inbox and join a community of like-minded travelers.

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of the Baltic Sea, Jūrmala is a captivating gem in Latvia that has charmed visitors for centuries. With its golden beaches, quaint wooden architecture, and serene ambiance, Jūrmala stands as a true testament to the allure of coastal living. This article takes you on a journey through the rich history, natural wonders, cultural treasures, and modern attractions that make Jūrmala a must-visit destination.

An Evening at Jūrmala Beach (2023) , Latvia (Photo by Author )

Jūrmala's history dates back to the 19th century when it gained popularity as a spa retreat for the elite of the Russian Empire. Its mineral springs and serene environment attracted nobility and intellectuals seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Over the years, Jūrmala's reputation as a luxurious resort town grew, and it has retained much of its historical charm through the preservation of its wooden architecture and elegant villas.

An Elegant Villa in Jūrmala (2023) , Latvia (Photo by Author )

The heart of Jūrmala's allure lies in its breathtaking natural beauty. Stretching over 30 kilometers along the coastline, its pristine beaches of fine golden sand invite visitors to bask in the sun and enjoy the therapeutic properties of the Baltic Sea. The region is also home to lush pine forests and tranquil dunes that provide a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Beyond its natural beauty, Jūrmala boasts a thriving cultural scene. The city hosts various cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, attracting artists and enthusiasts from all over the world. The Dzintari Concert Hall, with its exceptional acoustics and beautiful surroundings, is a renowned venue for classical music performances and other artistic endeavors.

Church in Majori, Jūrmala (2023) , Latvia (Photo by Author )

While rooted in history, Jūrmala has evolved into a modern and vibrant destination. The city offers a range of modern amenities, including upscale resorts, spa facilities, and gourmet restaurants. Visitors can indulge in a mix of relaxation and luxury, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking both tranquility and sophistication.

It takes only 20 minutes to travel from Riga to Jūrmala both by car or by public transport. On public transport you can get off the train at Majori train station, which is 30 seconds form Jomas street, a pedestrian street that has cafes, restaurants and crafts shops. Follow the nice pedestrain walk of Jomas street and it leads you to the beautiful beach.

Jomas Street in Majori, Jūrmala (2023) , Latvia (Photo by Author )

Jūrmala's timeless beauty, rich history, and modern amenities combine to create a destination that captivates the senses and rejuvenates the soul.

Whether you're drawn to the golden beaches, the elegant architecture, the cultural events, or the luxurious spas, Jūrmala offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates both tradition and modernity.

As you explore the winding streets, relax on the beaches, and immerse yourself in the local culture, you'll discover why Jurmala holds a special place in the hearts of those who visit.

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Jetsetting Fools

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Day Trips From Riga, Latvia: Jurmala and Sigulda

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

As inviting as Riga is – with its ornate Art Nouveaux architecture, twisting cobblestone lanes and quaint cafes – it shouldn’t be the sole destination on a trip to Latvia. The country is too diverse to see only one part of it!

While we were never at a loss for Riga things to do, we also wanted to explore beyond the capital city to get a glimpse of the nearby natural splendors. On day trips from Riga, we strolled on sandy beaches in Jurmala and hiked through the shaded mountains of Sigulda.

Best Day Trips From Riga, Latvia

Latvia is a small country – roughly the same size as the U.S. state of West Virginia. The long stretch of coastline and forest-covered hills are within easy reach of Riga. The two most popular Riga excursions – to Jurmala and Sigulda – are close enough that they could both be visited in a single day. However, we suggest spending more time in each location to fully enjoy your day tours from Riga.

Both destinations can be reached using inexpensive public transportation. For those who prefer organized excursions, there are both private and group tours that depart from Riga daily.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Guide To Riga Day Trips for your vacation to Latvia!

Day Trip From Riga to Jurmala

Looking for a Riga beach? Go west until you reach the beachfront town of Jurmala! With miles of white, powder-sand beaches along the Gulf of Riga, Jurmala is a top summer destination in Latvia. Visiting in the autumn, we quickly realized there is more to do in Jurmala than get a tan.

We walked along the beach and explored the wooded parks bordering the sandy shore. Following crisscrossing trails, we were astounded by the number, variety and size of mushrooms we spotted. The least crowded beaches – and our favorite forests – were west of Jurmala, near the Kauguri neighborhood.

In the center of Jurmala, a pedestrian-only street runs from across the Majori Train Station to the popular Dzintaru Park. Along the wide street are art galleries, tourist shops, cafes and restaurants. We stopped at Alus Krodzins, a cozy pub with outdoor space that serves inexpensive local beer and traditional dishes.

Throughout Jurmala are historic buildings and sculptures. Among our favorites were The Turtle sculpture at the Sea Pavilion, the Jurmala Globe at the east end of Jomas Iela and the former bathhouse of E. Racene, a 2-story wooden structure right on the beach.

In Dzintaru Park, we beelined to the lookout tower. The 110-foot-tall tower just peeks out over the tree tops. It’s free to make the climb to the top for 360-degree views of Jurmala and out to sea. Park visitors can also bring their rollerblades to cruise around the skate park or test their balance on the ropes course (for a fee).

Before leaving Jurmala, we dined at Kurins for a Latvian meal on the seaside (reservations recommended). The wooden house sits right on Kauguru Beach and serves enormous portions of local comfort food. We feasted on meaty dishes covered in mushrooms; a fantastic ending to our time by the sea in Jurmala!

Getting to Jurmala from Riga

It is easiest to get from Riga to Jurmala by rental car , however, during the summer traffic congestion and parking can be an issue. For our trip to Jurmala during the autumn, we relied on public transportation from Riga.

Riga Jurmala Train

To get from Riga to Jurmala by train is pretty straight-forward. Trains depart from the Riga Central Station (Riga Pasazieru) several times a day. The stop closest to the center of Jurmala is Majori. It takes about 30 minutes to travel by train to Jurmala from Riga. Tickets cost €1.50 each way and the current Riga Jurmala train schedule can be found on the official website .

Tips for your Riga to Jurmala Day Trip

• If you plan on leaving the center of Jurmala town to explore the Kauguri neighborhood, you will want to take a local bus or taxi. The bus stop is across the street from the Majori Train Station.
• The Jurmala Tourist Information Office ( official website ) provides free maps that highlight all the top sights and attractions in Jurmala.

Riga Day Trip to Sigulda

Any Riga itinerary wouldn’t be complete without making a trip to Sigulda, a fairytale town just an hour train ride away from the city. Forest-covered mountains topped with castles and ruins are the highlights of Riga Sigulda day trips.

We started our day in the Sigulda town center and set out on foot to see the region’s top attractions. Unlike Jurmala, where we simply wanted to breathe in the fresh sea air, in Sigulda we had specific sights we wanted to see – castles! Using the suggested routes outlined on the free map from the Sigulda Tourist Office, we routed our way to the Sigulda, Krimulda and Turaida Castles.

The medieval Sigulda Castle dates to the 13 th century and is much closer than it looked on the map. Once we had taken in the views, our next stop was the pretty Sigulda Lutheran Church. We stepped inside to take a peek and learned that visitors could climb the stairs to the top of the bell tower…which, of course, we did!

To cross the Gauja River Valley, we opted to take the Sigulda Cable Car . The 3/4 of a mile long cable hovers 140 feet above the river and it takes seven minutes to cross from one side to the other. While waiting for the next cable car to arrive, we walked to a lookout point and got our first look at Turaida Castle in the distance.

Once we arrived on the west bank of the river, we explored the grounds of Krimulda Manor and found the crumbling ruins of the 13 th century Krimulda Castle. Winding our way through the forest trails, we eventually came to Gutman’s Cave, which is rumored to have healing waters flowing from it.

After dipping our hands into the stream and waiting for that fountain of youth feeling, we continued our hike through the forest until we reached the Turaida Castle. Since the time was ticking by and we had a train to catch to Riga, we hopped on a bus from Turaida Castle back to Sigulda Central Square Station.

Getting from Riga to Sigulda

For the most freedom to discover, it is best to rent a car to get from Riga to Sigulda. We again relied on public transportation, and while it left us a bit short on time, it worked out fine in the end.

Riga Sigulda Train

To get from Riga to Sigulda by train is fairly simple, as well. Trains depart from the Central Riga Station multiple times a day and take 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to Sigulda. Tickets cost €2.10 each way and a current Riga Sigulda train timetable can be found on their website .

Tips for your Riga to Sigulda Day Trip

• The Sigulda Tourist Information Office ( official website ), conveniently located in the same building as the train station, provides free maps with highlighted routes to top sights in the area. The map is also available in the Riga Tourist Information Office ( located on Ratslaukums ). We recommend picking up a map a day in advance to plan your Sigulda sightseeing route.
• To maximize our time on the hiking trails and at the attractions, we packed a picnic lunch. There are benches and picnic tables located along the trails and near the sights in Sigulda.

Advice For Day Trips from Riga, Latvia

With just 2 days in Riga it is possible to take one – or both – of these day trips. On a Riga weekend break, you could see city, beach and mountains!

Day trips from Riga to Sigulda and Jurmala do not require much in the way of pre-planning. Just remember if taking public transportation, it’s a good idea to have the return schedule prior to setting off.

Would you rather take one of the organized Riga day tours? You can find more information about what tours from Riga are available on Viator . Full-day,  private tours to Jurmala include the beach, fisherman villages and nature trails. To visit the castles in Sigulda, consider joining this highly rated half-day tour . Want to see even more castles? Take a full-day tour from Riga to visit five Latvian Castles and Palaces !

Our Top Tips For Your Trip to Riga, Latvia

Are you ready to visit Latvia? Super! We have a few more suggestions and hacks for packing to make for a great trip to Riga.

Where To Stay in Riga

During our visit to Riga, we booked an amazing Airbnb Apartment . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. 

However, for those who prefer staying in traditional accommodations , there are many Riga Hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center.

Check out these top-rated hotels in Riga (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming trip: Relais Le Chevalier , Neiburgs Hotel and Grand Palace Hotel . Budget travelers can search for top-rated Riga Hostels – like Tree House and Green Cat Hostel .

Getting To Riga

The International Airport in Riga (RIX) is located 6 miles west of the Old Town. Read our tips on purchasing cheap plane tickets , then search for the best deal on Skyscanner. Additionally, you might want to book your transfer from Riga Airport to the city in advance. 

There are five regional train lines in Latvia, but the only international connection is with Estonia. Several bus routes connect Riga internationally. We used Eurolines to get from Riga to Tallinn .

Before You Go To Riga

• Find more advice in our guides to the Best Things To Do in Riga & Top Riga Craft Beer Bars !
• Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by Columbia  and Reef . Kris prefers Merrell and Sanuk .
• We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip to the Baltics. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens , a setup that takes amazing photos and is an excellent budget camera option .
• Make sure to have a good  guidebook before arriving in Riga and a great day pack to organize your day trip travel essentials !
• If you haven’t already obtained insurance, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Latvia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Travel Guide: How to Get from Riga to Jurmala

Planning a trip to jurmala, latvia’s beloved beach resort town if you’re starting your journey in riga, the capital city, you might be wondering about the best ways to get to jurmala. in this travel guide, we’ll answer all your questions and provide you with the most convenient transportation options. let’s get started.

1. Is Jurmala worth visiting?

Absolutely! Jurmala is a stunning coastal town located just 25 kilometers west of Riga. This charming resort is famous for its breathtaking beaches, picturesque landscapes, and unique wooden architecture. Whether you’re looking to relax, enjoy outdoor activities, or explore Latvia’s cultural heritage, Jurmala has something for everyone.

2. What are the transportation options from Riga to Jurmala?

You can reach Jurmala from Riga using various modes of transportation:

• By Train: The most popular and convenient option is to take a train from Riga Central Station to Majori Station in Jurmala. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
• By Bus: There are regular bus services connecting Riga and Jurmala. Buses depart from Riga Central Bus Station and arrive at various stops in Jurmala. The travel time ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the traffic.
• By Car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can rent a car in Riga and travel to Jurmala using the A10/E22 highway. The distance between the two cities can be covered in around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Riga and offer a convenient door-to-door option for traveling to Jurmala. The journey usually takes around 25 minutes, but prices can vary based on taxi company and traffic conditions.

3. Which option is the most cost-effective?

If you’re on a budget, taking a train or bus from Riga to Jurmala is the most cost-effective option. Train tickets are reasonably priced, usually around 2-4 euros per person, while bus fares range from 1.50 to 3 euros. Both options offer a comfortable and scenic ride.

4. What are the advantages of taking a taxi or renting a car?

If you’re traveling with a group, carrying heavy luggage, or simply prefer the convenience of door-to-door transportation, taking a taxi or renting a car might be the best choice for you. These options offer greater flexibility in terms of departure times and allow you to travel at your own pace.

5. Are there any additional tips for traveling to Jurmala?

Here are a few extra tips to ensure a smooth journey:

• Check the train and bus schedules in advance to plan your trip according to your preferred departure time.
• During peak tourist season, it’s recommended to arrive early at the train or bus station to secure a seat.
• Keep in mind that parking in Jurmala might be limited and could come at a cost, especially in popular areas. Consider checking the availability of parking spaces if you choose to drive.
• Don’t forget to pack your swimwear, sunblock, and beach essentials to fully enjoy Jurmala’s stunning beaches.
• Lastly, explore the beautiful town on foot or rent a bicycle to discover hidden gems and embrace the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Jurmala awaits you with its pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, taxi, or car, the journey from Riga to Jurmala is an experience in itself. Start planning your excursion today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

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Fonta izmērs

Jūrmala lies about 20 km west of Riga along the A10/E22 highway. All cars entering Jūrmala city limits must pay a daily entrance fee (EUR 3). If you are arriving from the east (Riga), pay at the toll point in Priedaine. If you are arriving from the west (Tukums), pay at the toll point in Vaivari. The entrance fee can be paid for with cash or payment card as well as by mobile app.  Read more »

The train line runs through the entire length of Jūrmala, from Priedaine to Ķemeri, with 14 stops within the city limits. A Tourist Information Centre is located in Majori, the centre of Jūrmala. Passenger trains to Jūrmala leave Riga Central Station (Stacijas laukums 1) from Tracks (ceļš) 3 and 4 on Platform (perons) 4. Look for trains going in the direction of Tukums, Ķemeri or Sloka. Depending on your selected destination, the ride from Riga to Jūrmala takes between 20 to 50 minutes and costs between  € 1.20 and  € 1.50 (for example, Riga–Majori takes 30 minutes and costs  € 1.50). Buy a ticket at the counters in the main ticket hall or, for a slightly higher price, directly from the conductor on the train. If you plan on taking your bicycle with you on the train, make sure to also buy a baggage ticket. Find train schedules and other information at www.vivi.lv .

It is possible to use a minibus to get from Riga to Jūrmala. They depart from Riga International Bus Terminal (location: Prāgas iela 1, Rīga). It takes around 30 minutes to get to Majori that is the centre of Jūrmala. Minibus List: Rīga - Jaunķemeri and Rīga - Sloka .

By river ferry

During the summer season the "New Way"  ferry, "Elizabete" river boat and historical sailboat  "Lībava" runs between Riga and Jūrmala. It leaves the landing on the banks of the Daugava River in Riga. En route to Jūrmala see the Riga port, the old mouth of the Lielupe River and the riverbanks of Bolderāja. The ferry trip takes 2.5 hours in each direction.

A EuroVelo 10 bicycle route leads from Riga to Jūrmala. The 20-kilometre-long route begins at Vanšu tilts (Vanšu Bridge) and follows the route Daugavgrīvas iela – Kliņģeru iela – Kuldīgas iela – Slokas iela – Kandavas iela – Jūrmalas gatve – Imantas 2. līnija. From there it runs parallel to the train tracks all the way to the Jūrmala city limits.

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How to get to Jurmala from Riga on your own

• Updated: 20.08.2021
• Yulia Klaos

If you decide to visit one of the most famous and outstanding tourist sites of Europe - Jurmala, then you will certainly arise the question: "How to get to Jurmala?"!

This article will answer the most basic questions of those who want to visit Jurmala and to arrange their own transportation to the resort from Riga . And questions may arise following:

What to go to Jurmala ?

Where to buy tickets ?

How and where can I find the schedule ?

How long does it take to drive from Riga to Jurmala by yourself ? Here's to them we reply below.

What is the easiest way to get from Riga to Jurmala or, conversely, from Jurmala to Riga alone

First you need to notice that Jurmala is not the name of the station. Jurmala is a common name resorts (villages), located on the Baltic coast of Latvia with a clean and wide beaches, famous for its white quartz sand. So the station Jurmala in the schedule of transport you will not find.

Jurmala consists of the following districts of the modern city, Priedaine, Lielupe, Bulduri, Dzintari, Majori, Dubulti, Valteri, Jaundubulti, Pumpuri, Melluzi, asari, Vaivari, Sloka, Kauguri, jaunķemeri and ķemeri.

The main town and Central station, which is worth a go if you want to get into the center of Jurmala, stroll through one of the oldest streets of Jurmala - Jomas street and to see the legendary concert hall "Dzintari" is Majori. It is up to the station need to buy the tickets.

To get from Riga to Majori, or any other station of Jurmala, easier and faster than the train. Or rather, in our train, and in European long-distance trains. Trains depart from Riga Train station. The station is located at the address: Riga, LV-1050, Latvia, in the city centre of Riga, just a short walk from the historic centre, the so-called Old town. The entrance to the station square States, of Gogol and Dzirnavu. Railway station in Riga, a large, warm and comfortable, there are shops, cafes, restaurants, a Museum.

Where to buy a ticket on the train from Riga to Jurmala and how much are the tickets

Tickets for train you can buy in the ticket office building train station beforehand, and right before the train departure. Tickets are always available. If you are late on the train, you can jump in and buy a ticket from the controller in the car, but the price will be more expensive. Controllers go.

Also look at the cost of the tickets and the train schedule on the official website of internal Railways: www.pv.lv . The schedule can be found on the scoreboard in the building of the railway station. Trains run frequently, every hour for a few items. But the schedule and cost of tickets is better to check before you travel, they may change.

A one-way ticket from Riga to Jurmala is 1.43 euros per person. If you buy immediately in both directions, there and back, the cost will be cheaper, but quite a small amount - a couple of Euro cents. So, if you go to Jurmala and don't know how many will spend the time, then a return ticket is better not to buy in advance, and to buy at the station ticket office when you return.

By the way ! The trains, all stations are announced in advance in the Latvian language, but it is quite clear, and they are displayed on electronic boards in the carriages of the train.

How to learn the schedule of trains to Jurmala and how long will it take to drive from Riga to Jurmala by yourself

As mentioned earlier, the schedule can be found in advance on the website or in the buildings of railway stations.

The distance from Riga to Jurmala (Majori), about 23 kilometers. In the path of 25-30 minutes.

On the way, and other ways to get to Jurmala

On the way to Jurmala, the views are not the most picturesque

In the train, suggest to take the seats if you go from Riga to Jurmala, during the movement of the train on the right side if back - on the left. So the window view will be more scenic.

How else you can reach Jurmala

The train is the fastest, budget common way to get from Riga to Jurmala and back. But apart from trains, there are other ways on how to get to Jurmala, we will tell about them:

On the bus to Jurmala

From the bus station Riga (Riga, LV-1050, Latvia) every day several flights to Jurmala. The journey time is about an hour. The cost of a single ticket is 1,75 € . It should be noted that the length of Jurmala on the coast, is 32 km away, and the bus makes only three stops. So if you choose the bus, then decide in advance where will be most convenient to reach.

The bus schedule Riga-jūrmala can be found in the ticket office of the bus station.

The water on the boat to Jurmala

Every day, from the pier located next to the Stone Bridge (opposite the Town Hall Square, pier No. 2), river boats "ELIZABETE" depart to Jurmala to the Majori pier and back. Way in about 2.5 hours. The ticket price is 20 €. The schedule of ships and the prices of the tickets can be found on the website rivercruises.lv .

Cycling to Jurmala

Not fast, not easy, but so exciting. Having a bike can also be rent in Riga, it is possible for an hour, if you are a professional racer to get to Jurmala.

The road bike will be very convenient. To Jurmala, Riga through areas of the bike trail. Many tourists and locals choose this mode of transport.

By car or taxi in Jurmala

The easiest and fastest way to get from Riga to Jurmala is to take a taxi. The trip will take about 20 minutes and cost approximately 37 €. Book a taxi/Shuttle service is possible on the website in advance. At any time of the day, at the airport or at the hotel, you will have to wait for the driver.

By car via the highway a10. Your car rental . But is it worth it? If you are apart of Jurmala want to explore other regions of Latvia, you probably should. But if you wish just for a day or a couple of days to go to Jurmala, then renting a car makes no sense.

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Day Trips From Riga: Jurmala and Sigulda

Riga is the largest city in the Baltic States and its most cosmopolitan center. I reckon that it’s the one that offers the most activities. Indeed, the large medieval Old Town is full of historical architecture; there are plenty of green parks, nice wooden houses, magnificent Art Nouveau buildings and a couple of cool ex-industrial neighborhoods.

Additionally, you can take several day trips from Riga to very interesting places nearby. In fact, the city’s closest beach in Jurmala is just a step away. On the other hand, if you want to disconnect a bit you should visit beautiful Sigulda north of the capital.

Day Trips From Riga: How to Choose

Jurmala and Sigulda make the best day trips from Riga since they combine nature and architecture. Additionally, you can get there on public transport. So we got to reduce our high ecological footprint while hanging with Latvians! That said, there are other options close to Riga. Visit the Rundale Palace and the Jelgava Palace to the south if you are into palaces.

The Kemeri National Park is pristine nature within easy reach. In fact, you can combine it with nearby Jurmala. The medieval Castle of Cesis is another fantastic place worth visiting. Go to Tukims and Talsi if you like small charming towns. As you can see, don’t rush and save time for a couple of day trips from Riga.

Jurmala has it all: a gorgeous beach, beautiful old mansions, a nice pedestrian street, lush green forests and plenty of great restaurants. To get there take the half an hour train that departs from Riga Central Station . It’s a fairly long place so we decided to begin in Marjori , in the center.

We spent time wondering about its pedestrian Jomas Street and people watching. Then we went through the forest and spent hours on the beach. In summer the beach gets crowded. Why wouldn’t it? The sea is warm, the sand soft and the atmosphere quite lovely! Of course we took pictures of the Former Swimming Establishment of Emilija Racene and the Giant Turtle .

Jurmala’s Beach

For over 200 years, Latvians have chosen Jurmala as their favorite beach . Even hard-line communist couldn’t resist its charms. In fact, Nikita Khrushchev and Leonid Brezhnev loved to spend time here. Originally a cluster of small villages and towns, it is now a large urban sprawl along a 32 km long beach.

What surprised us the most, were the sand and the sea. We found out that the sand is fine white quartz sand and that the sea is low in salt. Take note that 5 of the 11 organized beach areas have the Blue Flag certificate. We walked for hours under the sun. Football fields, bars, restaurants, and a couple of hotels on one side, on the other, the endless sea.

Jurmala Walks

If you like trekking, you are going to love Jurmala. The area offers some of the best hiking in the country. You can walk as long or as relaxed as you want. Walking along the beach from Jurmala Beach east to Lielupe Beach takes 2 hours. It’s a beautiful area with forests where the streams enter the sea.

Of course, you can walk along the sea to the west for hours. The area west of Jurmala is pure nature. Walk one hour to Taka Park . The area offers several trails with boardwalks over the bogs. You can take a bus back to the city.

Where to Stay in Jurmala

Jurmala has a wide variety of hotels to choose from. After all, it is Latvia’s prime beach destination. If you want to stay directly on the beach, as you should, book a room at The Baltic Beach Hotel & SPA . It’s a famous hotel from communist times brought up to 5 star standards. Located on Jurmala beach, it offers a fantastic spa and rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.

The Boutique Hotel Light House Jurmala is another great option on the beach. Without a doubt, the two best spa hotels are the Hotel Jurmala Spa and the Lielupe Hotel SPA , both set amongst gardens. If you want to stay in a traditional old wooden house, Wooden Villa is the best choice. Finally, if you have a thing for cool modern architecture, stay at the Kurshi Hotel & Spa .

Where to Eat/Drink in Jurmala

The best place to eat and drink in Jurmala is along the coast. For a fancy dinner directly on Jurmala beach, head to Line Grill Restaurant . They have a wide selection of wine and cocktails too. You can sip your favorite cocktail while listening to music at X.O Beach Lounge and Club . Killer sunset guaranteed.

All types of eateries and bars line Jomas Street. Grill & Fish Jomas Terase serves the best seafood in the city. Local people flock to Restorans Jurmala for its elegant setting and delicious food. Mar Mar Cafe is two blocks to the east. We had authentic Georgian cuisine at Kinza House . Atmosphere Cafe is on the beach next door.

On our next free day we wanted to escape the crowds so we headed up north to Sigulda , a perfect blend of nature and architecture. The super comfortable (yet old) train departs from Riga Central Station and takes over an hour through an idyllic forest landscape. Once you arrive at Sigulda, walk all the way to Turaida Castle .

You’ll cross the nice small town, Sigulda New Castle and several interesting churches. Take your time since you will be surrounded by nature. In fact the views from Turaida Castle alone will compensate for the slight effort. We didn’t visit Gutman’s cave nor Krimulda Castle or Manor House . Instead we walked slowly enjoying every moment in beautiful Sigulda.

Turaida Castle and Turaida Museum Reserve

The Turaida Castle is a large red brick structure built for the Livonian Brothers of the Sword in early 13th Century. Since then, the Castle remained alive until abandoned in 1776. Unlike the Trakai Castle in Lithuania, the Turaida Castle was never fully reconstructed. No complains, we loved it!

Today it consists of fortification ruins and a couple of towers. In 1988 the Soviet authorities established the so-called Turaida Museum Reserve. The entire Reserve includes the castle, a church, a cemetery, several mansions, the center of a kolkhoz and a park with ponds. The whole place is impressive. Latvia has done a fantastic job by preserving the cultural and historical landscape of one of the oldest ensembles of monuments in Europe.

Sigulda Walks

We loved walking all around Sigulda. Since it has soft hills, it offers breathtaking views. You can walk at your own rhythm and pace. The nicest walk is to Turaida Castle. It takes one hour. You will see the Sigulda Castle across Gauja River. Stop by the ruins of Krimulda Castle . There are several caves before Turaida.

Another great walk is east to see the Deudas waterfalls . It’s less than an hour. For the best views of Sigulda, walk 40 minutes to Paradise Hill . You will see an ocean of trees and the castle! The hill is a great starting point for several treks.

Where to Stay in Sigulda

Most tourists go to Sigulda on organized day trips from Riga. Hence, the limited accommodation offer. However, there are a couple of nice hotels in the city. If you want to stay in the center not far from the train station, Hotel Sigulda and Hotel Pils are your best options.

If you’d rather stay in a historic house then Kaķis is your place. Villa Alberta and Villa Vanilla are two great options a bit away from the station. On the other hand, for elegant architecture and gardens, stay in Boutique Hotel Bersas , the closest to the Castle.

Where to Eat/Drink in Sigulda

As mentioned, Sigulda is all about forests and views. The best restaurant near Turaida Castle is EJ Rata Buffet . Their burgers are delicious. Mr. Biskvits nearby makes the best pastry in the city. The view is great too. Doma is beneath Sigulda Castle, closer to the center. The cozy restaurant serves yummy food!

For cocktails, music, and local craft beer, head to Valhalla Lounge . The place is awesome! Local musicians play live regularly. It’s got a garden too. If you are into wine, go south of the train station to Zilver . It’s an authentic winery that produces the best wine in the region.

How to Get From Riga to Jurmala and Sigulda

Take a train at Riga Central Station to go to Jurmala and Sigulda. While not all are new, trains are inexpensive and reliable. Trains to Jurmala depart every half an hour from 5:30 AM to 23:30 PM. Though Jurmala has several train stations, the most centric is Marjori, near pedestrian Jomas Street. The journey takes roughly 30 minutes.

About a dozen trains a day connect Riga to Sigulda in over an hour. Sigulda’s train station is in the city center, some 5km from the Turaida Castle. To get from Jurmala to Sigulda, you have to change trains in Riga. You won’t have a problem. Most Latvians speak English and will be more than happy to help you. Just relax and let Riga gently surprise you.

Organized Tours to Jurmala and Sigulda from Riga

If you don’t feel like exploring on your own, we have great news for you. We sent a couple of friends on this tour to Sigulda and Turaida Castle , and they loved it! The tour takes 10 hours and covers the best of the area. It includes hotel pick-up from Riga, transportation, guides, and entrance tickets.

For Jurmala, we have two fantastic organized tours. The half-day tour includes hotel pickup from Riga and transportation. The one that takes the entire day includes Kemeri National Park . It includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide, and a picnic! If you only want to go to Kemeri National Park, hire this one .

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7 Things To Do In Jurmala & Kemeri: A Day Trip from Riga

Last Updated on March 5, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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If you’re spending a few days in Riga , then planning a day trip to Jurmala and nearby Kemeri is something that should be on every visitor’s itinerary. As one of the premier seaside destinations in Latvia, there are lots of things to do in Jurmala and Kemeri that make it worth spending a day (or more!) if your trip to Riga allows.

Located within easy reach of the Latvian capital, Jurmala has been famed for its beautiful beaches and spas for decades. In fact, it is an incredibly popular destination in its own right despite its proximity to Riga.

A little bit further to the west of Jurmala lies Kemeri National Park and the town of Kemeri. This town is well-known for its sulphuric waters and is home to a (now defunct) sanitorium. The National Park is set atop a bog that is absolutely fascinating to explore – provided you remember some insect repellent!

So if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Riga, then follow this one-day itinerary and enjoy a little piece of the gorgeous Latvian coast.

Table of Contents

Getting to Jurmala & Kemeri from Riga

Getting to Jurmala and Kemeri is quite straightforward and you have the option to go by car, public transport or an organised tour.

By Organised Tour

If you’re really interested in visiting Kemeri National Park and don’t want to hire a car, the easiest way to do this is going to be by organised tour. There are plenty of tours to choose from that include guided walks along the Kemeri Bog Boardwalk and stops at the beautiful beaches of Jurmala.

For instance, this full-day tour will pick you up at your accommodation in Riga and take you to Kemeri Bog Boardwalk. After the walk, you’ll head to the beautiful Lake Kaņieris before heading to a beautiful beach.

Another great option is this small-group tour which also includes stops at the Kemeri Bog, Kemeri Town, Lake Kaņieris, and in Jurmala itself.

And if you’d like to have a guide all to yourself, consider booking this private tour which will take you to the same places as the other tours. Your guide will explain the history of the bog, the native flora, and give you some insight into Kemeri town and Jurmala, as well.

For a unique experience, this sunrise tour of Kemeri could be a good option. Keep in mind that, if you decide to go on this tour in the summer, the start time will be at about 3:30am as Latvia is located so far north geographically.

If you want to travel independently, see as much of the area as possible and have limited inconveniences, then visiting Jurmala and Kemeri by car is going to be the easiest option.

Driving out to this area is quick and easy and will give you the most flexibility to do and see what you want on your own timetable. Going by car is also the easiest way to get from Riga to Kemeri National Park if you don’t want to go on an organised tour.

The drive from central Riga to the Kemeri bog walk trailhead is about one hour. Unlike if you take public transit, you can drive and park directly at the trailhead, knocking about four kilometres off of your total walk. Keep in mind that the car park has a €2 (cash only) fee.

From the bog walk, you can drive to the town of Kemeri in about ten minutes where there is ample free parking. Once you enter the major Jurmala area, you will need to pay a €3 fee.

After that, you can park in public areas at no additional cost. The easiest way to pay this fee is through the EuroPark app, where you can enter your license information and the fee is tied to that. You can also pay the fee in advance through the Visit Jurmala website .

If you’ve decided that hiring a car is the route for you, then we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to find great deals across several major and local car hire companies.

One of the quickest and easiest ways to reach Jurmala and the town of Kemeri is by train.

Trains to Jurmala leave from Riga’s central station every thirty minutes or so and if you plan to only visit the seaside area of Dubulti or Majori, the train journey will only take about half an hour. You can purchase tickets at the station and the journey is quite affordable.

If you want to go all the way to Kemeri, then you can also opt to take the train. Trains from Riga Central Station to Kemeri leave about every hour and will take about an hour to get there. Keep in mind that, if you’re planning on doing the Kemeri Bog Walk, there isn’t an easy public transit method that will take you to the trailhead.

The trailhead (you can put “ start of the Kemeri bog walk ” into Google maps to direct you there) is about four kilometres from the Kemeri train station and it will take about forty minutes to walk there.

Alternatively, it may be possible to arrange a taxi or Bolt that will take you to the trailhead, however, you may struggle to find a ride that will take you back to the town.

It is also easy to hop on a train from Kemeri back to Jurmala (for this itinerary, get off at either Dubulti or Majori station) and that will only take about thirty minutes.

Though the train is the most comfortable and the preferred method of reaching Jurmala and Kemeri, it is also possible to take a minibus to Jurmala. From Riga’s Central Bus Station, you can grab a minibus to Majori or Dubulti about once every hour. The journey time will take about forty minutes.

To get to Kemeri, buses leave a little less frequently, however, in the morning, they leave every hour or so from the central bus station. Keep in mind that buses don’t terminate in Kemeri, so make sure you pay attention to the stops along the route.

Things To Do In Jurmala & Kemeri: A One-Day Itinerary

The itinerary listed below can easily be executed in one day, however, it is easiest if you do have your own car. It is possible to do it by public transport, just note that it may make for a long day.

Kemeri Bog Walk

Begin your Jurmala day trip at one of the highlights (in my opinion, at least) of the area – Kemeri National Park and, more specifically, the Kemeri Bog Walk.

As mentioned in the “Getting to” section above, to get to the trailhead, simply enter “ start of the Kemeri bog walk ” into your GPS and you will be directed to the car park.

The trail is incredibly well marked and there is a short dirt trail (there are also outhouse-style toilets at the beginning of the trailhead) before you will arrive at the boardwalk and the beginning of the bog walk.

There are two options when it comes to doing the walk – the first is a 1.5km loop that will only take you to the beginning of the ponds and really boggy area. The second is a 3.5km loop that winds you all along the bog on a well-maintained boardwalk. I would recommend the longer loop if you would like to get the best experience of the bog.

There are plenty of benches and places to stop off and relax along the trail. There is also an observation tower that you can climb to gain excellent views over the bog. The trail is also lined with plenty of plaques (written in both Latvian and English) that explain some of the history of the bog along with the interesting flora and fauna that can be found here.

Plan for the 3.5km walk to take about an hour – especially if you make multiple stops.

Kemeri Town

After enjoying the peaceful nature of Kemeri National Park, it’s time to head over to the town of Kemeri itself. This small town on the western edge of Jurmala was once a famous spa destination and you can even visit a (now closed) Kemeri sanatorium dating back to the early 20th Century.

Kemeri sits up geothermal, sulphuric waters that run from the bog. You can actually wander through the lovely park in the centre of the town to a tap, where it is popular to bathe or rinse in smelly water.

The park also boasts a beautiful gazebo (known as the Islet of Love) and plenty of peaceful walking paths. You can also view the Kemeri Water Tower and, should you wish, pay the fee to climb to the top.

Dubulti Beach

From Kemeri, it’s time to head to Jurmala proper and one of the most popular areas to visit here is Dubulti. Located to the west of the most popular and lively beach of Majori, Dubulti is a good place to explore for something a little bit more laid back.

Obviously, the main draw of this area is the expansive, white sand beach. Like most beaches in the Baltic states, the sand is incredibly fine and the water is quite shallow.

If you want to go for a swim, you may have to walk out for 100 metres or more before you’re able to fully submerge yourselves. Because of how shallow and calm the water is, these beaches are very popular with families with younger children.

The beaches of Jurmala have plenty of changing areas and Dubulti is no different. You will also find volleyball areas and a few cafes where you can get a drink and some snacks.

There is also a boardwalk that you can stroll along to the other beaches of Jurmala, including Vaivari to the west and Majori, Dzintari and Bulduri to the east.

If you’re looking for a place to have a good lunch, then consider heading away from the beach to Kinza House , an excellent Georgian restaurant serving up favourites from this beautiful Caucasian country.

Majori Beach

While Dubulti is perfect for those looking for a laid-back beach to relax on, no Jurmala day trip would be complete without visiting Majori – the main neighbourhood in Jurmala.

Majori is home to, obviously, a beautiful beach where you can also take a photo with the “Jurmala” sign. While in Majori, make sure to find the massive turtle statue, as well.

This is also where the majority of the big hotels and spas are located and there are quite a few restaurants and bars to visit. Majori is more of a “proper town” rather than a sleepy seaside suburb that you are more likely to find in the other Jurmala neighbourhoods.

Take the time to enjoy the delightful white sand beach, but make sure you go for a stroll in the town itself. There are plenty of beautiful, traditional houses to take in and a great seaside vibe to enjoy.

This 2-kilometre-long pedestrian street winds its way from the centre of Majori all the way to the neighbourhood of Dzintari.

Jomas Iela is a lively thoroughfare that is lined with countless bars, shops, restaurants and hotels and is really the main artery in Jurmala.

Make sure to take the time to stroll down this pedestrian street, stop at some of the souvenir stands, grab a drink somewhere and just enjoy the energy of this lovely street. Walking down Jomas Iela is absolutely one of the best things to do in Jurmala.

Our Lady of Kazan Church

At the end of Jomas Iela lies a beautiful orthodox church known as the Our Lady of Kazan Church. Especially for those who are not from countries where Eastern Orthodox is a dominant religion, this church will be striking to see.

Complete with beautiful colours, numerous onion domes and a cacophonous bell symphony on the hour, this church is very much worth seeing.

Dzintari Forest Park

If you didn’t get your fill of forest scenery while on the Kemeri Bog Walk (or you have decided to forgo that particular part of this day trip), make the final stop on this Jurmala day trip be the Dzintari Forest Park.

This is a vast park lined with pathways and tranquil forest vibes that is the perfect place to relax away from the sun and sand of the beach. It is also one of the main attractions in Jurmala.

Where to Stay in Jurmala

If you’ve determined that you’d rather have more than a day in Jurmala, then there are plenty of accommodation options in this seaside area of Latvia. Ranging from swish hotels to comfortable apartments, you’re sure to find something that suits.

Kurshi Hotel & Spa – This hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable but affordable place to stay in Jurmala. They have a range of clean and modern rooms available, a location within a few minutes walking from the beach and a lovely spa to relax in should you choose.

Hotel Jurmala Spa – One of the most popular Jurmala hotels, this is a great luxury option if you really want to take advantage of this famed spa destination. They have several rooms on offer, a full-service spa on-site and a great bar and restaurant on site.

Greenhouse Apartments – If you’d like to have your own place to stay in Jurmala, then this studio apartment can be a great option. Located within easy walking distance from the beach, this place is perfect for couples looking for a comfortable stay in Jurmala.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Jurmala

Planning a day trip to Jurmala and Kemeri is an excellent addition to any trip to the Latvian capital. This area is famous for a reason and it is well worth taking the time to visit for yourself.

Are you wondering what to do in Jurmala? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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2 to 3 Days in Riga Itinerary: Things to Do in Latvia’s Capital

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Dear Maggie, Thanks for all your advice, I spent a wonderful day In Kemeri yesterday, thanks to you. A little advice to update your site: at Kemeri rialway station, taxi is a mission impossible, but for the sporty tourists there is a bike rental place at the back of the building. Their name is velonoma , they have their phone number on the door aand get there in 5 mins if you call theme. I paid 12 euros for a good bike for whole day. Its run by 2 young rellay nice local guys.

Thanks for sharing your experience!

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Day Trip to Jurmala, Your Perfect Seaside Escape From Riga

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Located about 30 minutes from Riga by train, you’ll find the resort seaside town, Jurmala. To get here get off the train at the Majori stop. It’s a beautiful journey to this cute little town and an easy nice day trip to Jurmala from Riga.

FYI make sure you are ready to get off before it stops. I had a bit of an issue getting off with my luggage. My rolling luggage is about 30 pounds and I had a purse and backpack on. The steps off the trains are very steep and I couldn’t really get down so I was putting the luggage first when suddenly I heard the whistle blow that the train was leaving. It had only been stopped about 30 seconds! The doors shut hard and my backpack (which was on my back) was on the inside. I was on the outside! I tried to pry them open as the train started moving and literally couldn’t they were totally unmovable. I had to throw my luggage down and twist out and jump off the train. It was actually scary and I cut my thumb. So standing on the platform, bleeding, in freezing weather, I decided I was not going to go check out the beach as I thought I would but instead was going to the hotel and relax a bit.

Day Trip to Jurmala

While it’s a great day trip town, I stayed over and think that if you have time in your travels it’s a good place to hang out and relax (or detox if you’ve been partying in Riga!).

I stayed at Jurmala Spa Hotel which is a 4-star hotel that focuses on spa treatments and has over 200 types of massages. They also have saunas, pools, and steam rooms you can use for free as a guest. Rooms were spacious and had ocean views. I got there just in time for sunset. You do have to wear a swimsuit in the saunas, etc. You can walk around in your bathrobe. The robes are only supplied in premium rooms. If you don’t have that type of room you can rent a robe.

The sea was stunning but with the high wind, I couldn’t even go out as the sand was flying everywhere. I took these images with my eyes shut, literally.

My last day here I went to Baltic Beach Hotel a 5-star property on the beach as you might have guessed. The rooms are really nice, the spa is stunning. I had a water treatment called zero gravity. Basically, it’s like laying on a water-bed, then having another water-bed on top of you. Or being inside a water-bed burrito. OR an infant in the womb lol. It was crazy. Then they turn on the jets so you can relax and they leave you there. The therapist didn’t speak English and just looked at me and said “shhh” as she put her hands to the side of her head motioning “sleep”. I couldn’t sleep but it was relaxing. I finished it off with an oxygen juice. Apparently good for the health.

This is a beach resort town and is seasonal. You can find more people here in the summer until about September. It is known for its spas and they are very affordable. Some went for about $20 for a 30 minute or about $40 for an hour massage at the Jurmala Spa. It was $13 for a manicure here. At Baltic Beach Hotel you can average about $1 per minute so $60 for an hour massage. I would want to come back and see it in the summer when the beach bars are open as well

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THE BEST Day Trips from Riga to Jurmala

Day trips from riga to jurmala.

• Riga to Sigulda
• Riga to Rundale
• Riga to Jurmala
• Riga to Jurgaiciai
• Riga to Kuldiga
• Riga to Tallinn
• Riga to Ligatne
• Riga to Cesis
• Riga to Vilnius
• Riga to Jelgava
• Riga to Pitrags
• Riga to Aglona
• Riga to Bauska
• Riga to Liepaja
• Riga to Trakai
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Trip to Kemeri National Park & Jurmala from Riga

2. Private Full-Day Trip to Jurmala and Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk

3. Sunrise at Kemeri National park + Jurmala

4. Full-Day Private Trip to Jurmala, Fisherman Villages and Nature Trails from Riga

5. Private Tour to Kemeri National Park and Jurmala from Riga

6. Bogs and Resorts in Jūrmala

7. Tour To Ķemeri National Park And Smoked Fish Tasting

8. Jurmala Day Trip

9. Ķemeri Great Bog Discovery With Optional Sunrise & Jūrmala Visit

10. Day Tour to Kemeri National Park

11. Jurmala Hidden Wonders Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Gauja National Park guided tour

What travelers are saying.

• You are here:  

Top 9 things to do in Liepaja

9 things to do in jurmala, latvia, besides the beach.

1 Walk Jomas street

2 Attend a concert at the Dzintari concert hall

3 Visit the summer house of Mr. Morberg

Address: Dzintaru prospekts 52/54.

4 Be active at Dzintari Forest Park

5 Visit Aspazija's house even if you don’t know anything about her

6 Visit Dubulti Evangelical Lutheran Church

7 Make a selfie at one of the signs of Jurmala

8 Admire the architecture of villas and private houses

Address: Juras iela 57, Dzintari

Address: Juras iela 33, Dzintari. Currently almost not visible from the street.

Villa Marta. Address: Bulduru prospekts 16, Bulduri.

9 Stay at Hotel MaMa

• Updated by Anita on November 26, 2023

Author: Anita Sane

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 Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest ,  Twitter  and Bloglovin .

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30 Best Stops Between Riga and Jurmala

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How long is the drive from Riga to Jurmala?

The direct drive from Riga to Jurmala is 17.4 mi (28 km) , and should have a drive time of 35 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Riga to Jurmala, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Saulkrasti Bicycle Museum and White Dune in Saulkrasti, or the ever-popular Saulkrasti Tourist Information Center.

Best stops along Riga to Jurmala drive

Saulkrasti tourist information center.

Saulkrasti Bicycle Museum

White Dune in Saulkrasti

Pirts un pirtnieka pakalpojumi "pie saimnieka", the ethnographic open-air museum of latvia.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Dobuļi, Mini zoo

Rabbit town, riga national zoological garden, the corner house.

Riga Central Market

The freedom monument, st. peter's church, alberta iela, house of the black heads.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Rathausplatz Riga

Museum of the occupation of latvia, riga cathedral, mežotne palace, rundāle palace museum, jūrmalas pludmale, jurmala dubulti evangelical lutheran church.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

St.Simeon and St.Ann Orthodox Cathedral

Jelgava st. trinity church tower, ģ. eliasa jelgavas vēstures un mākslas muzejs, other popular road trips from riga, explore nearby places.

• Babite Parish
• Lapmezciems

All related maps of Jurmala

• Map of Jurmala
• Map of Babite Parish
• Map of Lapmezciems
• Map of Tireli
• Map of Jaunmarupe
• Map of Marupe
• Map of Riga
• Map of Valgunde
• Map of Slampe
• Map of Katlakalns
• Map of Ozolnieki
• Map of Jelgava
• Map of Kekava
• Map of Tukums
• Map of Baltezers
• Map of Engure
• Map of Adazi
• Map of Garoza
• Map of Salaspils
• Map of Silakrogs
• Map of Dobele
• Map of Ikskile
• Map of Iecava
• Map of Jaunpils
• Map of Zalenieki
• Map of Zorgi
• Map of Saulkrasti
• Map of Ropazi
• Map of Mersrags
• Map of Ogre
• Map of Tervete

Jurmala throughout the year

• Jurmala in January
• Jurmala in February
• Jurmala in March
• Jurmala in April
• Jurmala in May
• Jurmala in June
• Jurmala in July
• Jurmala in August
• Jurmala in September
• Jurmala in October
• Jurmala in November
• Jurmala in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Jurmala?

Get inspired for your trip to Jurmala with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Jurmala Itinerary
• 2-Day Jurmala Itinerary
• 3-Day Jurmala Itinerary
• 4-Day Jurmala Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from riga to jurmala.

Yes! You can drive from Riga to Jurmala.

How far is Jurmala from Riga by car?

The drive from Riga to Jurmala is 17.4 miles (28 km).

How long does it take to drive from Riga to Jurmala?

Driving from Riga to Jurmala should take you 35 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Riga to Jurmala?

Gas from Riga to Jurmala would cost around $2 to $4 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Riga to Jurmala?

You could check out Saulkrasti Bicycle Museum and White Dune in Saulkrasti, or the always popular Saulkrasti Tourist Information Center!

What's the weather like in Riga?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Riga in January
• Weather in Riga in February
• Weather in Riga in March
• Weather in Riga in April
• Weather in Riga in May
• Weather in Riga in June
• Weather in Riga in July
• Weather in Riga in August
• Weather in Riga in September
• Weather in Riga in October
• Weather in Riga in November
• Weather in Riga in December

What are some other road trips from Riga?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Riga.

• Riga to London drive
• Riga to Paris drive
• Riga to Berlin drive
• Riga to Rome drive
• Riga to St. Petersburg drive
• Riga to Prague drive
• Riga to Amsterdam drive
• Riga to Barcelona drive
• Riga to Vienna drive
• Riga to Moscow drive
• Riga to Stockholm drive
• Riga to Budapest drive
• Riga to Tallinn drive
• Riga to Helsinki drive
• Riga to Florence drive
• Riga to Venice drive
• Riga to Krakow drive
• Riga to Warsaw drive
• Riga to Vilnius drive
• Riga to Copenhagen drive
• Riga to Milan drive
• Riga to Edinburgh drive
• Riga to Dublin drive
• Riga to Istanbul drive
• Riga to Munich drive
• Riga to Brussels drive
• Riga to Oslo drive
• Riga to Hamburg drive
• Riga to Gdansk drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• ROUTES & TIME-TABLE
• Gallery & Map

+371 29-237-123 +371 26-445-180

Beautiful sightseeing river trips Riga – Jurmala – Riga

Events, banquets, jubilees, wedding, conferences or pleasure trip, individual orders

Unforgettable trips on the rivers Daugava, Bullupe and Lielupe from Riga to Jurmala (Majori) and back.

THE MOTOR SHIP NEW WAY

Routes and a time-table of a cruise.

Every day from the 15th of May to the 15th of October. The motor ship leaves the pier in Riga, at the embankment of the river Daugava – at the sculpture of Big Christopher. It comes in Riga from the pier of Jurmala, in Majori.

* The minimum number of passengers 10

THE ROUTE RIGA-JURMALA-RIGA

Trips on the rivers daugava, bullupe and lielupe, apply for a trip.

+371 29-237-123 | +371 26-445-180