Discover a Winter Wonderland — Why Latvia Should Be on Your Holiday List
This year, Riga achieved its highest result to date in one of Europe’s most important winter tourism rankings, European Best Christmas Markets 2025–2026. The city secured third place, strengthening its position as the Christmas capital of the Baltics.
More than 803,000 travellers from 179 countries participated in the competition, according to the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency.
Celebrating the MICHELIN Key debut in the Baltics
This season brings exciting news for travellers: the MICHELIN Guide has introduced its first-ever MICHELIN Key awards, a new global distinction highlighting the world’s most exceptional hotels—and Latvia has proudly secured its place among the honoured destinations.
In the inaugural MICHELIN Key selection for the Baltic region, three Latvian hotels were awarded One MICHELIN Key, marking them as outstanding stays offering exceptional character, design, service, and guest experience.
These recognitions confirm that Latvia is not only a vibrant cultural and natural destination, but also a rising star in premium hospitality.
The best restaurants in Latvia for the MICHELIN 2026 guide have been named
Latvia is once again in the global spotlight as the MICHELIN Guide celebrates its third edition in the country. This year, the guide highlights an impressive range of restaurants across Riga and Latvia’s regions, showcasing the country’s growing reputation as a culinary destination. From award-winning fine dining experiences to cosy local gems, Latvia’s gastronomic scene offers something for every winter traveler.
Discover Michelin restaurants in Latvia
Festivals and Special Events
Latvia will host a variety of significant tourism and cultural events, offering a wide range of activities both in cities and rural regions. Here are some of the most notable events:
Jelgava invites you to experience the “Power of Illusion”
One of the most anticipated winter events returns — on February 7 and 8, the 27th International Ice Sculpture Festival will transform Jelgava into a place where truth and illusion merge into one captivating story. Artists from around the world transform Pasta Island into a glowing world of ice, light, and imagination. Visitors can enjoy sculptures, performances, creative activities, science shows, and family-friendly entertainment.
Radiodays Europe 2026 — Spring Into Audio Innovation
Get ready: this spring, Radiodays Europe welcomes the global audio community to Riga for three days of inspiration, creativity and connection. From 22–24 March 2026, broadcasters, podcasters and audio innovators from 65+ countries will gather to explore cutting-edge trends, discover new formats, and build powerful networks. Whether you’re shaping content, designing technology or building audiences — this edition brings the insights, inspiration and creative sparks you’ve been waiting for.
Latvia’s Tourism Highlights: Meet Us at International Travel Trade Fairs in Early 2026
Latvian tourism companies and hotel representatives will be attending key international travel trade fairs at the beginning of 2026. These events provide excellent opportunities to meet in person, exchange insights, and explore new cooperation possibilities across leisure, MICE, and hospitality sectors. Join us at the following trade fairs in early 2026:
Travel Trade Days 2026
Travel Trade Days is a B2B trade fair bringing together tourism professionals from the Benelux region and across Europe. Latvian tourism companies and hotels will present destination offers and explore new cooperation opportunities with international partners.
👉 Learn more about Latvia at Travel Trade Day
📍 Location: Netherlands — Stand: 09.B078
Dates: 7–8 January 2026
MATKA 2026
MATKA is the largest travel trade fair in Northern Europe, welcoming both industry professionals and consumers. Latvia will showcase a diverse range of tourism experiences, from city breaks and nature tourism to culture and gastronomy.
👉 Learn more about Latvia at MATKA
📍 Location: Helsinki, Finland — Stand: 6d79
Dates: 15–18 January 2026
FITUR 2026
FITUR is one of the world’s leading tourism trade fairs, particularly important for Southern European and Latin American markets. Latvia’s stand will highlight the destination’s diversity and support the development of new international partnerships.
👉 Learn more about Latvia at FITUR
📍 Location: Madrid, Spain — Stand: 4E13
Dates: 21–25 January 2026
ITB Berlin 2026
ITB Berlin is the world’s leading travel trade show, bringing together key players from the global tourism industry. Latvia will present its latest tourism products, sustainable solutions, and cooperation opportunities across multiple segments.
👉 Learn more about Latvia at ITB Berlin
📍 Location: Berlin, Germany — Hall: 18, Stand: 107
Dates: 3–5 March 2026
IMEX Frankfurt 2026
IMEX Frankfurt is the leading international trade fair for the MICE sector (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events). Latvian representatives will highlight the country’s potential for conferences, corporate events, and incentive travel.
👉 Learn more about Latvia at IMEX Frankfurt
📍 Location: Frankfurt, Germany
Dates: 19–21 May 2026
Practical information
Useful information will help to plan your trip to Latvia. Look into Latvian regional tourism maps and descriptions of popular tourism destinations, find the closest Tourism Information Center and learn where to rent a car. You are also welcome to take a look at cooperation opportunities for tour operators and travel agencies and media, as well as useful materials and brochures.
Let this holiday season turn into an unforgettable journey – experience the festive spirit, local traditions, and genuine Baltic hospitality in the heart of Latvia.
