Daugavpils is a state city in southeastern Latvia, located on the banks of the Daugava River, from which the city derives its name. The parts of the city to the north of the river belong to the historical Latvian region of Latgale, and those to the south lie in Selonia
Multicultural mix: Latvians, Russians, Poles, Belarusians, and Jews — a living testament to centuries of borderland history
Historical depth: Tsarist fortresses, Soviet blocks, and Orthodox cathedrals all in one city
Art lovers' destination: Birthplace of famed abstract artist Mark Rothko
Ideal for travelers who enjoy underrated cities, post-Soviet architecture, and cultural contrasts.
By car: ~3.5 to 4 hours (230 km) via A6 or A13
By train: Direct trains from Riga Central Station (~4.5 hours)
By bus: Frequent service from Riga International Bus Station (~4.5–5 hours)
Daugavpils Fortress – Massive 19th-century star fort; still partially active and home to museums, galleries, and artists
Mark Rothko Art Centre – The only place in Europe with original works by the world-famous abstract painter
Church Hill (Baznฤซcu kalns) – Rare sight: a Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox, and Old Believer church all within a few hundred meters
Shmakovka Museum – Dedicated to the traditional Latgalian moonshine spirit
Railway Museum – Reflecting Daugavpils’s history as a major Baltic rail hub
Daugava River embankment – Great for walking, cycling, and views of the city
Dubrovin Park – City’s main park with fountains and sculptures
Art galleries and street art installations near the fortress and town center.
Visit Latgale Zoo – small but unique, especially for kids
Try a shmakovka tasting session at the museum
Explore Svente Manor & Military Vehicle Museum just outside the city
Attend a local choir concert or Orthodox choir performance in a cathedral
Check out open-air markets for produce, smoked cheese, and textiles.
Park Hotel Latgola – Reliable mid-range stay in the city center
SanMari Hotel – Boutique hotel near the fortress and Rothko Centre
Villa Ksenija – Classy historical guesthouse for a more intimate experience
Hostels and guest apartments – Very affordable and widely available.
Shmakovka – A strong home-brewed moonshine typical to the region
Grey peas with bacon, potato pancakes, and smoked Latgalian cheese
Russian-style pelmeni, soups, and dumplings
Layered honey cakes and pastries from local bakeries
Art Hub Café – Near Rothko Centre; artsy atmosphere and good coffee
Gubernators – A rustic tavern offering hearty local dishes and a great beer selection
Arsenฤls – Contemporary restaurant in the fortress area with upscale takes on Baltic cuisine
SkovoroTka – Ukrainian-Russian fusion, cozy and authentic.
Daugavpils is Latvia’s most Russian-speaking city (~80% speak Russian natively) — bilingualism is common, and the mood is more Slavic than Nordic
Deeply Orthodox Christian, especially in the neighborhoods around Church Hill
The Latgale region has a separate identity within Latvia, with its own dialect (Latgalian), folk costumes, and music traditions
Residents are proud of the Rothko connection and cultural revival efforts.