The best running trails around Babītes ezers

This is the main pedestrian street of Jurmala. It is home to shops, restaurants, banks, and other amenities. It is truly the heart of the city.

Stretching for miles along the Gulf of Riga, Jūrmala Beach has a long tradition as a spa and seaside resort and has been attracting visitors since the 19th century. It was a sought-after holiday destination for the elite, especially during the Soviet era, and you can still feel that touch of history today as you stroll between the historic villas and charming beach houses. Here, where the fine, light sand meets the shallow, clear waters of the Baltic Sea, an atmosphere of serenity is created. Many of the preserved Art Nouveau wooden houses almost transport you to another time and give the beach that little something extra. The sandy beach, which is pleasantly quiet in the off-season, is perfect for long walks - whether at sunrise when the first light touches the waves, or at sunset when the sky is colored in soft orange tones. Numerous works of art and small installations along the coast also remind us that Jūrmala is a place that harmoniously combines creativity and nature. The beach is also known for its sustainable efforts: the region strives to preserve its natural charm by responsibly managing coastal resources while promoting tourism.

The Orthodox Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in Jūrmala is an impressive architectural highlight, built in 2013 on the foundations of an older, destroyed church from 1896. The colorful blue and gold domes stand out clearly against the green surroundings, and the artistic design of the facade draws the eye. The church symbolizes a special spiritual significance: The Kazan Icon itself is revered in the Russian Orthodox tradition as a protective and blessing icon that is said to have once saved Russia from the downfall. The Icon of the Mother of God of Kazan has been valued as a miraculous icon for centuries and has a turbulent history that also made it a symbol of faith and hope. In Jūrmala, the icon finds a worthy representation through the new church building and gives the surroundings a solemn atmosphere

Majori is the heart of Jūrmala - a place where the flair of times gone by combines with modern life. The architecture here is particularly remarkable: Art Nouveau wooden houses, many of them lovingly restored, line the streets and tell stories of the heyday of Baltic spa culture. Strolling along Jomas iela, the lively pedestrian zone, you will find cafes, boutiques and restaurants that tempt you with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. An absolute highlight is the former bathhouse of Emīlija Rācene on the beach - a nostalgic building that was once famous for its seawater treatments. Today it stands as a monument and reminds us of the glamorous days when Jūrmala was a popular destination for wellness travelers from all over Europe. The proximity to the beach gives Majori a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are taking a leisurely stroll through the city or retreating to the seaside, Majori offers a unique mix of culture, history and relaxation that shapes the cityscape of Jūrmala.

The sculpture "Bruņurupucis" (The Turtle) in Jūrmala is a popular landmark and symbol of the city. Created in 1995 by Latvian sculptor Jānis Bārda, this bronze turtle stands directly on Majori Beach and symbolizes longevity and permanence. The striking sculpture has become a traditional photo opportunity for visitors, who like to pose next to or on the turtle. With its robust yet playful design, "Bruņurupucis" attracts tourists and provides a beautiful contrast to the surrounding coastal landscape. The turtle has not only artistic but also cultural significance, as it is part of the local cityscape and the Latvian art scene. Jūrmala places great value on public art, and this sculpture is an excellent example of how art and nature harmoniously coexist in the city.

Jomas iela in Jūrmala is the city's lively main street - a place where the history of spa culture meets the lightness of today's flair. Strolling along the charming old buildings, you can feel the atmosphere of times gone by, combined with the lively hustle and bustle of modern cafes and shops. The facades tell stories; some buildings have been lovingly renovated, while others still bear traces of the past, giving the street an authentic touch. The mix of boutiques, restaurants and small shops invites you to stop and enjoy the local culture. Everything is close together here, and the street lamps spread a soft light in the evenings that bathes the street in a warm atmosphere. A walk here is like a little look back at historical Jūrmala, enriched by the lively present

Don't expect too much! It's a shopping street with lots of street eateries and the usual kitsch.

If you're looking for a beach party, you've come to the right place! Jurmala actually has a long tradition as a seaside resort: As early as 1838 (at that time Latvia belonged to Russia), Tsar Nicholas I approved the construction of the first bathing establishment on the Gulf of Riga, in Kemeri (German: Kemmern). As a result, one residential area after another was built along the long, flat sandy beach. Wealthy Baltic Germans and Russian nobles built chic wooden houses and Art Nouveau villas there. Over a dozen of these beach resorts were combined in 1920 (when Latvia first became an independent republic) to form the city of Rigas Jurmalas. Translated, this means "beach of Riga".