Alūksne, a charming town in northeastern Latvia, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore Latvia’s rich history, breathtaking nature, and cultural heritage. Surrounded by stunning lakes, lush forests, and remarkable architecture, Alūksne offers a mix of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, here are the top things to do in Alūksne that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Visit Alūksne New Palace and Manor Park
In the heart of Alūksne, next to the picturesque lake, stands Alūksne New Palace. Built in the late 19th century, this Tudor Neo-Gothic palace is one of Latvia’s most remarkable architectural landmarks. Inside, visitors can explore the Alūksne Museum, which showcases the town’s cultural and historical heritage. Additionally, the Nature Museum “Vides Labirints” features fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.
2. Explore Temple Hill Park and Alūksne Sightseeing Tower
Temple Hill is one of the most historic and scenic spots in Alūksne. In ancient times, this hill was a Latgalian castle mound. However, during the Great Northern War, Russian soldiers reportedly carried soil in their caps to raise the hill. Their goal was to improve their attack position against the fortress on Castle Island.
Temple Hill and the Temple of Fame
At the top of the hill stands the Temple of Fame, a granite rotunda built in 1807 by Baron von Vietinghoff. This monument was erected to commemorate the war and honor military leaders from both sides. Later, in the 1930s, several tourist facilities were added to the area, including the Sun Bridge. This elegant pedestrian bridge, restored in 1995, stretches across a ravine and offers breathtaking views.
At the base of the hill, visitors can find a rest area and a fishing spot. Meanwhile, the hill itself offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Alūksne, Manor Park, and Castle Island. This area is perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Alūksne Sightseeing Tower
One of the highlights of Temple Hill Park is the Alūksne Sightseeing Tower. Standing at 37.8 meters, it is one of the tallest viewing towers in Latvia. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the town, lake, and surrounding landscape.
- Opening Period: May 1 – October 31
- Entrance Fee: €1 for visitors aged 7 and older
- Nearby: Visitor center with local souvenirs and travel information
3. Gulbene – Alūksne Narrow Gauge Train
The narrow gauge train, known in Latvian as “šaursliežu dzelzceļš,” has been an iconic part of the country for over 100 years. This charming train runs twice a day between Gulbene and Alūksne.
At the Alūksne station, the journey ends at a multimedia exhibition located in the historic baggage shed. Here, you’ll learn about the history of the railway, hear 10 unique stories about the station, and discover who Bānītis is – a friend, helper, and source of inspiration.
4. Explore Lake Alūksne
Lake Alūksne, one of Latvia’s cleanest lakes, offers a perfect escape into nature. The lake features beautiful shores, rich fish populations, and four islands. The largest, Pilssala (Castle Island), is home to the ruins of the Livonian Order Castle, while Cepurīte (Hat Island) was inhabited as early as the Stone Age.
For a closer look, take a boat trip on the “Marienburg”, or experience the thrill of a zip-line ride across the lake.
The lake spans 15.7 km² and sits 183.7 meters above sea level. Its islands include Cepurīte, Garā (Long Island), Tīklu (Net Island), and Pilssala. A peninsula separates the main lake from its bay, where unique two-story boathouses line the shore.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the lake’s variety of over 12 fish species. A fishing license is required, available for purchase locally.
5. Visit Alūksne Evangelical Lutheran Church
The tower of Alūksne Evangelical Lutheran Church, decorated with beautifully carved boulders, rises high into the sky. Built between 1781 and 1788, this church stands as one of Latvia’s most remarkable early Classicism monuments. Designed by Riga architect Christoph Haberland, it was constructed during the rule of German Baron Otto Hermann von Vietinghoff.
Since the chosen location near the lake had swampy ground, builders reinforced the foundation with 2,000 oak piles. The church’s 55.5-meter tower offers breathtaking views. The scenery impressed the Baron so much that he ordered the installation of oak stairs, making it easier for guests to climb—a unique feature among Latvian churches.
Inside, the church houses a true treasure—an organ crafted by the famous August Martini. After years of use, experts carefully restored the organ in 2006. Another highlight is the altar painting “The Baptism of Jesus,” which underwent restoration in 2000. With its rich history, striking architecture, and serene lakeside setting, this church is a must-visit in Alūksne.
6. Discover Alūksne Culture Centre
Once a 19th-century beer brewery, the Alūksne Culture Centre now hosts a variety of cultural events. After its renovation in 2015, it became a creative hub with a modern concert hall and the “Kalme” national applied arts workshop.
The center offers high-quality concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions year-round. It also supports local artisans and entrepreneurs, fostering creativity and innovation.
Located in a historic building that was once part of the Alūksne Manor complex, the culture center continues its legacy as a vibrant cultural venue.
7. Visit Castle Island
Alūksne offers the perfect combination of romance with both a castle and an island. The Livonian Order Castle, built in 1342, stands proudly on Castle Island, with its walls once reaching 2 meters in thickness.
According to legend, a girl named Maria was sealed within the walls of the castle, and the island is also called Maria Island.
Today, the castle tower has been restored, and a sound-and-light show called “MARIENBURG the Eighth Brother” brings the castle’s history to life in a musical tale.
Castle Island also features a pedestrian path around the ruins, a swimming area, volleyball courts, a children’s playground, and a multifunctional service building. The open-air stage hosts events, making it a perfect spot for visitors.
8. Explore Ernst Glück’s Bible Museum
In Alūksne, discover the history of the Latvian language and culture at Ernst Glück’s Bible Museum. This is where German priest Ernst Glück completed the first full Bible translation into Latvian, published in 1694. This translation became the ABC and a guiding text for the nation.
The museum displays Bibles in 40 languages, including a Braille Bible, alongside many other fascinating exhibits.
Nearby, at the Priest’s Manor, you can find the Glück Oak Trees, planted by the priest after completing his monumental work. Interestingly, Glück’s step-daughter, Marta, later became Catherine I.
9. Alūksne at Night
For a more romantic experience, take a stroll through Alūksne at night. The town transforms with beautiful light performances that illuminate the streets.
In the Summer season, five fountains in New Palace Park sparkle until midnight, while colourful lights light up the pedestrian bridge on Tempļakalna Street, the Rotunda on Temple Hill, and the 7th Sigulda Infantry Regiment Monument.
Alūksne at night is as beautiful as during the day but carries a more mysterious atmosphere. This makes it the perfect reason for a late-night walk.
10. Explore the Beauty of Alūksne Manor Park
Alūksne is full of hidden treasures, and Alūksne Manor Park is one of its finest. Otto Hermann von Vietinghoff-Scheel designed this stunning park in the 18th century while owning Alūksne Manor. Today, it stands as one of Latvia’s most remarkable historical and cultural landmarks.
The park features many well-preserved architectural gems, which locals and historians have carefully restored and reconstructed. As you walk through, you will discover Alexander’s Pavilion, the Granite Obelisk, the Bird Pavilion, Aeolus’ Temple, Pomona’s Temple, and the Mausoleum. Additionally, the elegant fountains and stone decorations enhance its beauty.
Covering 32 hectares, the park feels even more expansive as it stretches toward Lake Alūksne. From here, you can admire breathtaking views of Temple Hill, the Sun Bridge, and the Temple of Fame on the peninsula. Whether you seek a peaceful escape, a scenic walk, or a perfect photo spot, this park promises an unforgettable experience.
Alūksne is a hidden gem in Latvia, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities. Whether you prefer exploring ancient ruins, enjoying lake activities, or discovering cultural landmarks, this town has something for you.