Things to Do in Ventspils: Your Seaside Guidebook

Ventspils Beach: Sand dune, Baltic Sea, and dune grass.

Ventspils, Latvia’s charming port city on the Baltic Sea, offers a delightful blend of pristine beaches, vibrant parks, interactive attractions, and a rich maritime history. Forget the usual tourist traps – Ventspils is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! If you’re planning a trip to Latvia and seeking something unique, Ventspils is a must-visit! This comprehensive Ventspils travel guide unveils the very best things to do in Ventspils, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this colorful Latvian paradise.

1. Visit the Ventspils Seaside Promenade

One of the top tourist spots is the stunning Seaside Promenade, which stretches along the Baltic coastline. Perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride, the promenade offers breathtaking views of the sea and lush greenery. You’ll find numerous sculptures, playgrounds, and art installations along the way, making it an enjoyable experience for both families and solo travelers.

Why Visit?

  • Scenic views of the Baltic Sea
  • Art installations and sculptures
  • Relaxing atmosphere

2. Explore the Ventspils Castle

Discover Ventspils’ medieval past at this imposing castle, home to a museum with exhibits on the city’s history and culture. The Livonian Order Castle is a significant historical landmark that dates back to the 13th century. Explore the castle’s ramparts, courtyards, and towers, and learn about its role in the history of Ventspils and the Livonian Order. The castle museum features exhibits on the city’s past, including its maritime traditions, cultural heritage, and the lives of its residents throughout the centuries.

3. Discover the Ventspils Adventure Park

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Ventspils Adventure Park is a fantastic destination. Located in a scenic forested area, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, ropes courses, and a climbing wall. The Ventspils Adventure Park offers year-round activities for individuals, families, and groups. It began in 2005 with the “Lemberga hūte” ski slope and expanded to include the “Kaķa taka” rope track. In 2007, the park added a service building with rentals and a café. By 2013, the amusement area grew with bumper cars, bumper boats, a children’s driving school, and a synthetic ice rink. Today, it remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

4. Explore the Seaside Open-Air Museum:

Step back in time at this fascinating museum showcasing traditional fishing boats, coastal architecture, and the history of seafaring in Ventspils. The Seaside Open-Air Museum offers a unique glimpse into the maritime heritage of Ventspils and Latvia. Explore historic fishermen’s houses, windmills, and other coastal structures that have been relocated to the museum grounds. Climb aboard traditional fishing boats, learn about the tools and techniques used by local fishermen, and discover the stories of the brave seafarers who sailed the Baltic Sea. This is also the world’s largest anchor collection with 130 different anchors.

5. Explore the Charm and Sculptures of Reņķa Garden in Ventspils

Reņķa Garden in Ventspils, named after the wealthy Reinke family, is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting summer balls, concerts, and festivals. It features unique wooden sculptures, including Cloud Lambs, Garden Beasts, and a giant Fly sculpture children can climb. Visitors can relax by the pond with a floating fountain or use outdoor fitness equipment. The garden also hosts larger-than-life figures like Lutausis and a large Tortoise, making it a must-visit destination in Ventspils.

6. Ride the Ventspils Narrow Gauge Railway:

Take a scenic ride on this historic railway, offering views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Step aboard this narrow gauge train and embark on a nostalgic journey through this charming city and its surroundings. The train travels along a scenic route, offering glimpses of the city’s parks, forests, and coastal landscapes. The Ventspils Narrow Gauge Railway is a fun and relaxing way to explore the area and experience a slice of local history. You can also visit the locomotive house.

7. Experience Thrills at Līvu Akvaparks (Nearby):

While technically just outside Ventspils, a trip to Līvu Akvaparks, one of the largest water parks in Northern Europe, is a must-do. (Please make your decision and research if it’s a great option to add, or to let go!) The park has year-round activity, features more than 20 slides, 10 swimming pools, and several unique attractions that can be found in it. The park is separated into 4 zones: active entertainment, family relaxation, a SPA complex, and an outdoor summer beach. It’s a well known place to be for tourists.

8. Explore the Ventspils Planetarium and Observatory:

Explore the wonders of the universe at the planetarium and observe celestial objects through the observatory’s telescope. The Ventspils Planetarium offers a fascinating journey through space and time, bringing the wonders of the universe to life. Attend a planetarium show and learn about the constellations, planets, galaxies, and other celestial phenomena. Then, visit the observatory and gaze through the telescope to observe stars, planets, and other celestial objects in real-time.

9. Visit Ventspils Lighthouses for Stunning Views

One of the best things to do in Ventspils is visit its iconic lighthouses. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation points of several historic lighthouses, including the Miķeļbāka and Pilot Towers, offering breathtaking coastal vistas.

10. Enjoy Water Activities in Ventspils

Ventspils offers a variety of water activities, including surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and SUP, with lessons and equipment rental available. The Surf Club also features surfskating lessons and a surf museum. For a peaceful adventure, rent a canoe or kayak and explore scenic routes along the Irbe, Stende, and Rinda rivers. You can also enjoy a unique boating experience on the Venta river, complete with a BBQ grill.


Ventspils is more than just a port city; it’s a destination that offers pristine beaches, engaging parks, rich history, and a unique floral charm. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or a fun-filled family vacation, Ventspils promises an unforgettable trip. Start planning your Latvian getaway today!