Liepāja is a port city on Latvia’s west coast. It’s known for long Liepāja Beach, on the Baltic Sea. The beach is backed by Seaside Park, featuring a concert stage, a former bathhouse and the Ghost Tree, a monument to the influential Latvian rock band, Līvi. In the center, the Latvian Musicians’ Alley of Fame has plaques dedicated to the nation’s musicians. Holy Trinity Cathedral houses a huge mechanical organ.
Known as “The city where the wind is born”, Liepāja offers a mix of beautiful beaches, Art Nouveau architecture, and underground bunkers.
It’s quieter and more alternative than Riga or Jūrmala — perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
By car: ~3 hours via A9 highway (220 km)
By bus: ~3.5 to 4 hours; frequent departures from Riga International Bus Station
By train: Less frequent, slower (~4.5 hours), but scenic
By air: Liepāja has a small regional airport with limited seasonal flights.
Karosta Prison – Former military prison; now a dark tourism spot where you can take tours or even "stay overnight" in a cell
Karosta Naval Port – Abandoned fortifications and Soviet-style housing blocks – surreal and photo-worthy
Holy Trinity Cathedral – Houses one of the world’s largest mechanical organs
Liepāja Museum – Showcasing regional culture, history, and art
Liepāja Beach – Wide and clean white-sand beach; ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and kite surfing
Seaside Park (Jūrmalas parks) – Long promenade with sculptures and open-air concerts
Northern Forts – Eerie and crumbling sea fortifications near Karosta, perfect for exploring and watching the sunset
Liepāja Concert Hall “Great Amber” (Lielais Dzintars) – Striking modern architecture and top-tier performances
Rock Café and music bars – The city has a strong rock and punk music culture
Latvian Music Walk of Fame – A tribute to famous Latvian musicians along the main pedestrian street.
Promenade Hotel – A stylish 5-star hotel set in a renovated warehouse on the canal
Hotel Art Hotel Roma – Beautiful boutique hotel with an art gallery atmosphere
Amrita Hotel – Reliable and affordable mid-range option
Karosta Prison Hostel – For adventurous travelers wanting a truly unique stay.
Upe – Creative modern Latvian cuisine with seasonal local ingredients
Boulangerie – French-style bakery and bistro for brunch, coffee, and pastries
MO Liepāja – Elegant dining with great seafood and Baltic modern cuisine
Darbnīca – Cozy spot with craft burgers, vegetarian options, and live music
Red Sun Buffet Beach Bar – Right on the beach; laid-back vibe with drinks and snacks
Fresh Baltic fish and seafood, especially smoked or grilled
Kvass (bread-based drink) and Riga Black Balsam cocktails
Local desserts like layered honey cake or fruit-filled pastries
Seasonal soups like cold beet soup (aukstā zupa).
Liepāja is proudly independent-minded and artistic
Locals are friendly but reserved; respect for personal space is appreciated
Music is deeply embedded in local identity — expect to find everything from opera to metal
Russian is widely spoken alongside Latvian.