Talsi

A picturesque hilly town built around nine hills and two lakes, often considered the heart of Kurzeme. Its scenic lakeside setting and quiet historic center make it a pleasant stop.

Things to do

• Walk around Talsi Lake — Stroll the scenic promenade around Talsu ezers, the lake at the town's heart, taking in reflections of the hills.
• Climb Ķēniņkalns hill — Ascend one of Talsi's nine hills for panoramic views over the rooftops and lakes.
• Visit Talsi Regional Museum — Explore local history, art and Kurzeme heritage in a handsome hillside mansion.
• See the town center sculptures — Wander the historic core to find bronze figures like the Talsi shepherd boy and other local monuments.
• Boat or swim in Vilkmuiža Lake — Enjoy the second of the town's two lakes, with quieter shores and an ancient archaeological site nearby.
• Explore the Lutheran church — Visit the historic Talsi Evangelical Lutheran Church perched above the town.
• Browse the local market — Pick up regional produce, honey and crafts at Talsi's town market.

Food to try

• Sklandrausis — A traditional Kurzeme rye-crust tart filled with potato and carrot, sweetened with honey and cinnamon.
• Rupjmaize — Dense dark Latvian rye bread, often served fresh from local bakeries and central to any meal.
• Smoked fish — Locally smoked fish reflecting Kurzeme's coastal traditions, sold at markets and lakeside stalls.
• Grey peas with bacon — Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, a hearty national dish of grey peas cooked with onion and fatty bacon.
• Kvass — A refreshing fermented rye-bread drink popular throughout Latvia in summer.

Local customs & good to know

• Talsi is Kurzeme's heart — Locals take pride in the town being considered the capital of Latvian identity in the Kurzeme region, so honor its heritage.
• Wear comfortable shoes — The town is built across nine hills, so expect plenty of steep walks and uneven cobbled streets.
• Quiet town rhythm — Talsi is small and peaceful, with shops closing early, so plan meals and errands before evening.
• Learn a few Latvian words — A friendly 'labdien' (good day) or 'paldies' (thank you) is warmly appreciated in this small community.

Nearby

• Sabile — 22 km
• Lake Engure (Gulf of Riga Coast) — 32 km
• Livonian Coast Villages (Gulf of Riga Coast) — 41 km
• Kuldīga — 49 km