Kuldīga

A charming old town with well-preserved wooden architecture and cobbled streets, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its highlight is Ventas Rumba, the widest waterfall in Europe, spanning the Venta River beside a historic brick bridge.

Things to do

• Ventas Rumba waterfall — Watch Europe's widest waterfall tumble across the Venta River, especially dramatic in spring when fish leap upstream.
• Old Brick Bridge — Cross one of Europe's longest brick road bridges, built in 1874, for the classic view of the waterfall.
• Stroll the Old Town — Wander the cobbled streets and well-preserved 17th-19th century wooden houses that earned Kuldīga its UNESCO listing.
• Kuldīga District Museum — Explore local history and playing card collections in a villa set in a riverside park.
• St Catherine's Church — Visit the town's oldest church, dating to the 17th century, with a fine carved altar and pulpit.
• Alekšupīte waterfall — See the tiny cascade flowing through the town center, sometimes called Latvia's highest waterfall.
• Riverside park and beach — Relax on the grassy banks by the Venta below the waterfall, a popular summer swimming and picnic spot.

Food to try

• Lamprey (nēģi) — The Venta is famous for its lampreys, traditionally grilled or served in jelly, a Kurzeme delicacy.
• Sklandrausis — A sweet Latvian rye pastry filled with carrot and potato, a protected regional specialty of Kurzeme.
• Fresh river fish — Local restaurants serve trout and other Venta River catch, especially near the waterfall.
• Rye bread and honey — Dark sourdough rye bread and regional honey appear at markets and cafes throughout town.
• Craft beer and kvass — Try local brews and the fermented rye drink kvass at Old Town taverns.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the UNESCO old town — Many wooden buildings are protected heritage, so admire the architecture without touching or climbing on structures.
• Time the fish leap — In spring and autumn you may see fish jumping over Ventas Rumba, a centuries-old spectacle once used for fishing.
• Cash for markets — Small vendors and the local market may prefer euros in cash, so carry some for treats and crafts.
• Quiet, walkable town — Kuldīga is compact and best explored slowly on foot, so plan a relaxed pace rather than rushing.

Nearby

• Jūrkalne Bluffs — 36 km
• Sabile — 38 km
• Pāvilosta — 48 km
• Talsi — 49 km