Latvia Genealogy and Heritage Tours

Riga, its capital, was founded in 1201 when Bishop Albert built a castle on what is now present day Riga. The geographical center of the city, or “Old Riga” is most enchanting in its historical elements including 13-18th century fortifications and medieval architecture that somehow remained intact following two world wars. Ancient narrow streets lead to numerous unique sights such as the 13th century Riga Cathedral, the Gothic stylized St. Peters Church, St. George’s Church also called the “White Stone Palace” and Riga Castle, which was originally built in 1330 and is now the home of the Latvian President. For a true sense of what houses looked like in this region during the 15th century, get your camera ready to photograph the architectural gems that make up the complex of residential buildings called the “three brothers”. In a vintage tram, a horse-drawn carriage, by foot or by boat, Riga won’t disappoint! 

All in all this may be a small country, but, it has a lot to offer from border to border. The Rundāle Palace, complete with a French garden, lies in the south of Latvia and is one of the most exceptional monuments of Baroque and Rococo architecture in the country. Built between 1736 and 1740, this was the summer residence of the Duke of Courland and a favorite destination for the Russian Empress Anna Ioannovna. The Basilica in Aglona is one of the world’s most renowned sacred sites where pilgrims mark the day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven each year on August 15. For nature lovers, Jurmala City offers thermal waters, pine forests, distinctive wooden architecture and quartz sand beaches covering over 32 kilometers. The picturesque ancient valley of the Gauja River is chock full of amazing natural formations, trails and wildlife. Explore the outdoors to your hearts content in this lovely locale and as a bonus, you will be able to spot some interesting engravings from the 19th century left on sandstone walls.

Admired by poets and painters alike, the charming town of Kuldiga (Kuldīga) with its still preserved old wooden buildings and narrow streets are well worth a look. Cesis (Cēsis) in the center of Vidzeme is known for being one of the most captivating locations in Lativa. Its medieval castle ruins, park, cobbled streets and ancient buildings give visitors a virtual glimpse into the Latvia of yesteryear. Finally, a visit to the Turaida Museum Reserve would be the perfect way to end your day. Located not far from Riga, the centerpiece of this spectacular setting is Turaida Castle, a brick archbishops’ structure founded in 1214. While there, meander down to the wooden-spired Turaida church built in 1750 and its accompanying churchyard plus Daina Hill whose landscape is dotted with sculptures dedicated to Latvian heroes forever commemorated in “dainas” or Latvian folk songs.

These are just a few examples of what Latvia has to offer. If you’re considering spending a holiday here, let us know and we’ll work with you to create the ideal itinerary at a rate you can afford. We don’t dictate what will be included in any tour, but rather we work hand-in-hand with our clients in order to outline the most perfect experience for each person or individual group. Want to see other Latvian sights inside or outside of the major cities or off the beaten path? If you dream it up, we can accommodate it.


Tour Latvia your way!

Accommodations

• We'll make all arrangements for a hotel setting or an apartment with kitchen and all according to your needs
  

Transportation

• Vehicles accommodate a party of 1 or a group of 100. We use comfortable, luxurious, newer vehicles equipped with AC. From sedans for the smaller party of 2-5 persons , mini-van for up to 8 persons, mini-bus for up to 21 and Tour-bus for up to 100 people.  We can also provide tickets for train transport within any country we service and quote airfare based on your requirements.

Airport Arrival and Departure

• We'll be there to pick you up from any location and transport you to anywhere you need to be; any time - day or night.

Tour Guide

• Personable, congenial and very flexible. Ready to give you a specific and comprehensive history of every location that pertains to your history and/or any city or town you experience.
• Aside of taking you to general attractions your guide can take you to any archive, parish or other appropriate repository in order to help you research any family documentation or our experienced genealogists can perform your genealogical research in advance of your journey
• Our Guides are well informed. If you're visiting your ancestral village they will study all facts relevant to your case in advance in order to provide you with a detailed history of your ancestral home.

Attraction Fees

• If desired, we will handle all fees necessary for the many attractions that Latvia or Eastern Europe in general has to offer so that you won't need to spend time waiting in lines.

Meals

• We will reserve a table at a place of your choosing or we can make suggestions and reserve based on your particular tastes.

 Cost

Ancestral Attic tours are often less expensive than an "off the shelf" excursion. Best yet, our reasonably priced tours are designed to fit your budget. We can accommodate most any wallet from a basic economy tour to a fully exclusive upscale tour. In order to provide you with a proper cost, we must have the details of what your needs entail so contact us today for a free quote and we'll work out the perfect, tailor-made Latvian or  Eastern European heritage tour at a price you can afford!