This historic Latvian riverside town has Europe's widest waterfall and a well-preserved 17th-century center with wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
Kuldīga, a small town in western Latvia, has preserved its medieval street layout from the 13th century. As you walk through the old town, you'll see traditional wooden buildings with red clay roofs, while the Aleksupite River flows directly along building walls. You can wade across Europe's widest waterfall in summer, explore underground sand caves, or watch fish trying to jump up the Venta Rapids during migration season.
Walking Through Medieval Streets
Walk the narrow cobblestone streets of Kuldīga's old town, which follow the same paths laid out in the 13th century. Wooden buildings with red clay roofs line these streets, while the Aleksupite River runs alongside house walls in the town center. The Town Hall Square hosts local events and festivals throughout the year. A tourist train departs from the Venta Rapid and winds through the old town, taking you past the town's architectural landmarks.
Swimming at Europe's Widest Waterfall
The Venta Rapid spans 249 meters across the Venta River. In summer, you can wade across the shallow parts of the waterfall or swim in the Mārtiņsala blue flag bathing area. Walk across the 164-meter brick bridge from 1874 for views of the waterfall. Between April and October, you can watch salmon and vimba fish attempting to jump over the rapid during their migration.
Exploring Underground Labyrinths
Visit the Riežupe Sand Caves, located 2 kilometers outside town. These underground tunnels, carved in the 18th century, stretch for 2 kilometers. Take a guided tour through 460 meters of the labyrinth, including a stop at the Love Cave - a chamber where flowers left by newlyweds remain fresh for months without water.
Experiencing Local Culture
Join the Flying Fish Festival in late April to watch the fish migration at Venta Rapid and participate in related activities. During the Kuldīga Town Festival on the third weekend of July, you'll find local craftspeople selling their work and performers in the streets. The Trade Fair of Courland in October fills the town with regional food producers and artisans.
Getting to Kuldīga
Catch one of 12 daily buses from Riga Central Bus Station to Kuldīga. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. Once in town, you can reach most attractions on foot within 15-20 minutes from the center.
