Latvia, officially known as the Republic of Latvia, is one of the three Baltic nations in Northern Europe’s Baltic region. Globetrotters are interested in learning about life in the Baltic region and exploring its charming culture, history, and modernity, and they love to plan their holidays in Latvia. Though considered a hidden gem in terms of European tourism, Latvia doesn’t have any scarcity of interesting tourist attractions and experiences to offer. If you want to make the most out of your trip to this Baltic state, consider getting a Latvia travel insurance policy.
Get more details on Latvia travel insurance and the different aspects of tourism in this country on this page.
Here is a list of some of the important features of Latvia travel insurance:
Key Features | Details |
Maximum coverage | Offers coverage against various unforeseen events, like medical, travel and baggage-related emergencies. |
Constant support | Round-the-clock assistance via 24x7 customer care support and in-house claim settlement. |
Easy cashless claims | Offers cashless claims benefits accessible through multiple network hospitals. |
COVID-19 coverage | Coverage for hospitalisation expenses caused by COVID-19. |
Massive cover amount | Extensive coverage ranges from $ 50K to $ 500K. |
The type of travel insurance you choose for the Romania should be based on your travel requirements. Here are the main choices that are offered;
There are plenty of reasons why investing in international travel insurance is highly advised. Here are some of the perks of having Latvia travel insurance;
Unforeseen medical troubles on an international trip can happen to anyone. The Latvia travel insurance covers such expenses, including hospitalisation, OPD treatment, medical repatriation, etc.
Journey-related hassles like flight delays, trip curtailment, missed flight connections, etc., can ruin the flow of the trip. Latvia travel insurance offers appropriate compensation in such events, keeping the trip smooth.
Baggage-related issues like loss or delay of checked-in baggage can cause problems on a trip. Latvia travel insurance will give you sufficient coverage to deal with such issues easily.
One of the major benefits of latvia travel insurance is that you can avail of cashless medical treatment through a network hospital in case of a medical emergency, without needing to pay for the expenses from your pocket.
The comprehensive cover against various unforeseen medical and non-medical events under latvia travel insurance ensures your trip stays hassle-free and within budget.
In case you need some assistance when facing an unfortunate event on the trip, you can reach out to the round-the-clock customer support team to have all your queries answered.
Here are some of the things that are usually covered under travel insurance for Latvia from India:
Our policy covers the costs related to medical emergencies, so you don’t have to break your pocket during your trip.
Latvia travel insurance also covers the expenses related to dental emergencies that you may face.
In case of medical emergencies that require immediate care, our policy helps by covering the expenses related to air/land medical evacuation to the nearest healthcare centre.
Our policy also helps you to take care of petty hospitalisation-related expenses, so you don’t have to exceed your travel budget.
In the tragic event of death, our policy will be responsible for covering the expense of transferring one’s mortal remains to their home country.
In the unfortunate event of accidental death while travelling, our policy will offer a lump-sum compensation to your family.
To ease your burden if an unforeseen occurrence results in permanent disability, the policy will offer you a lump sum compensation.
If you find yourself responsible for third-party damage in a foreign country, our policy will make it simple for you to compensate for those losses.
In case you experience a cash crunch caused by theft or robbery, our policy will help facilitate emergency fund transfers from India.
In case your flight gets hijacked, we will do our part by offering compensation for the distress it causes you while the authorities handle the situation.
Our Latvia travel insurance offers a reimbursement feature that will help you cover the expenses related to essential purchases arising out of a flight delay.
In case you need to extend your hotel stay due to a medical emergency, our policy will cover those additional expenses.
You will be covered for the expense of replacing lost or stolen personal documents and belongings with our Latvia travel insurance.
Our policy will offer you compensation in case of loss of checked-in baggage. So, don’t worry about spending your Latvia trip in the absence of your essentials.
In case your check-in baggage gets delayed, our policy will cover the essential purchases while things get sorted.
The above mentioned coverage may not be available in some of our Travel plans. Please read the policy wordings, brochure and prospectus to know more about our travel insurance plan.
Your travel insurance for Latvia from India policy may not offer coverage for:
Health complications that are caused due to war, terrorism or breach of law are not covered under the travel insurance plan.
If you use intoxicants or banned substances, the Latvia travel health insurance plan will not offer any coverage.
If you have a medical condition prior to the trip or receive treatment for a pre-existing disease, the plan will not cover those expenses.
Injuries or health complications suffered due to terrorism or war.
Injuries as a result of intentional harm or suicide attempts are not covered under international travel insurance.
The policy will not cover injuries and hospital expenses that are caused as a result of participating in hazardous activities and adventure sports.
During the foreign country trip, if you or a family member choose to receive cosmetic or obesity treatment, those associated expenses will not be covered under the plan.
If you want to buy travel insurance online for Latvia, the following are the steps that you need to follow:
• Visit the official HDFC ERGO International Travel Insurance website.
• Find the “Buy Now” button and click on it.
• Enter the required details like trip type, total travellers and their respective age, and hit “Continue”.
• Provide the name of the country you are planning on visiting, which in this case is Latvia, along with the dates of departure and return and press next.
• Enter your contact details, such as your name, email and phone number, on the pop-up window and click “View Quote”.
• Choose from the available plans, select “Buy”, and enter the verification code to move on to the next window.
• Follow up with the additional information required by the policy and complete the online payment.
• Upon successful payment completion, your travel insurance policy will be issued and sent to the inbox you provided.
Category | Details |
The national flag | The Latvian flag is one of the world’s oldest flags. Its design is called the Rhymed Chronicle of Livonia and was first mentioned back in 1280. |
Inventor of jeans | The one credited for inventing modern jeans is Jacob William Davis, a Russian-American tailor who had a Latvian Jewish origin. |
Voluntary spend a night in prison | In Latvia, there is a hotel called Karosta Prison Hotel which used to be a former prison used by Nazi and Soviet officials. Guests can book their stay at the hotel and get the full “prisoner” treatment, with highlights like dressing in jail attire, harassment, interrogation, etc. |
Greenery | Latvia is one of Europe’s greenest nations. It has a forest cover of 54% of its total land area. |
Tall residents | Latvians are some of the tallest people in the world. The average height of Latvians is 5 feet 9.13 inches (175.61 cm). |
Free internet in the capital | If you run out of data during your Riga tour, you won’t have to worry. This is because there are over 800 free WiFi connections in this Latvian city. |
In order to apply for a tourist visa to Latvia, you will need to submit a few documents, which may include the following;
• A duly filled and signed Latvia tourist visa application form,
• Valid passport,
• 2 recent passport-sized photos of the applicant,
• Biometric data,
• Latvia visa fee,
• Proof of return flight ticket,
• Proof of accommodation in Latvia,
• A cover letter,
• Proof of occupation at home,
• Proof of sufficient financial means, and
• A valid travel medical insurance for Latvia.
Latvia remains a fascinating holiday destination around the calendar. However, if you have something specific in mind for your trip, make sure to research and pick the right time to visit this Baltic state. Summer in Latvia starts around June and ends in August. Though short, the days remain mostly clear and hot, with occasional chilly nights and showers from time to time. Autumn, which starts in September and ends in October, is generally one of the favourite times for many tourists to visit Latvia for a vacation. The soothing temperature and majestic tint of brown trees and golden leaves make for a charming sightseeing experience.
Winter in Latvia starts in mid-November or early December and snowfall is one of its common features. The days are cold, with water freezing in lakes, rivers, and seas, and the landscape is getting covered in thick layers of snow. This goes on till mid to late March, after which Spring replaces it. By April and May, the entire region gets a beautiful makeover, with the temperatures reverting back to the soothing range. So, depending on your trip needs, make sure to choose the right time for the visit and don’t forget to get a Latvia travel insurance for the journey.
Here are all the essentials for Latvia’s seasonal changes and urban explorations:
• Warm Layers - Latvia has cold winters, so pack warm clothes like sweaters, jackets, and thermal wear. Layers are key for autumn and spring.
• Waterproof Jacket - Latvia can be rainy, especially in autumn. A waterproof jacket will help in case of sudden showers.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes - The cobbled streets in cities like Riga require sturdy and comfortable shoes for walking.
• Winter Accessories - In winter, pack gloves, a hat, and a scarf to stay warm during freezing temperatures.
• Power Adapter - Latvia uses the European plug (Type C or F), so bring a power adapter if your devices need it.
• Reusable Water Bottle - Tap water is safe to drink. A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
• Insect Repellent - Summers, especially in rural areas, can have mosquitoes. Carry insect repellent for outdoor trips.
• Swimwear - If visiting Latvia’s beaches or lakes in the summer, pack swimwear for a refreshing swim.
Latvia is one of the safest countries to travel to in not only Europe but the world. However, as a tourist, you should undertake certain safety and precautionary measures to keep your travel free of any hassle;
• It is best to avoid visiting the border areas without getting proper permission and carrying ID cards.
• Though it is safe for tourists to travel to Latvia, there are some risks of petty crimes in the main tourist areas. For example, things like mugging, pickpocketing, snatching, etc., are common in Riga. So, take good care of your belongings, especially when visiting the busy tourist areas.
• In some places in Latvia, tourists are sometimes overcharged for food and drinks. So, always check the bill and match it with the menu to avoid getting overcharged.
• If you are getting a rental car, make sure to get proper insurance for it and park it at secured parking facilities only.
• Don’t leave your drinks and food unattended at bars, restaurants and other establishments to avoid the risk of them getting spiked.
• One of the best precautionary steps that you can take is to invest in good Latvia travel insurance, which will keep you financially secured against a variety of unforeseen medical, travel and baggage-related complications.
Airport | City |
Riga International Airport | Riga |
Ventspils International Airport | Municipality of Ventspils |
Liepaja International Airport | South Kurzeme Municipality, Liepaja |
For your trip to Latvia, here are some places you can add to the itinerary;
Riga is the largest and capital city in Latvia. Home to the main international airport in the country, it is often the starting point for most tours. It is a charming city on the Baltic Sea and is a main hub of Latvia’s rich culture, architecture, history, cuisine, nightlife and more. From museums and heritage sites to beaches and parks, there’s a lot to experience in Riga. Some of its main attractions are the Latvia National Museum of Art, Art Nouveau Building, Riga Cathedral, Three Brothers, Riga Castle, Bastejkalns Park, Jurmala Beach, etc.
Liepaja is a very important city and a major industrial centre in Latvia. This harbour city has made a name for itself by being one of the country’s main ice-free ports and is home to several astonishing tourist attractions, like the Karosta Prison, Liepaja Beach, Northern Forts, Holy Trinity Cathedral, etc. Tourists also like to visit this Latvian city for recreational and adventure activities like hiking, fishing, sailing, kayaking, etc.
Next on the list of must-visit tourist destinations in Latvia is Ventspils. When exploring this city, you will find fine examples of modern and old architecture at every nook and cranny. If you plan to visit this city and embark on a sightseeing tour, make sure to check out the main tourist attractions like Livonian Order Castle, Ventspils Creative Centre with Planetarium, Ventspils Narrow Gauge Train Mzabanitis, etc. Also, do note to get Latvia travel insurance as it is both mandatory to enter the country and useful in case of unforeseen events.
Jurmala is a popular resort town and tourist destination in Latvia. The white sandy beaches, leisurely vibes, lush greenery and quaint eateries are some of the main highlights of Jurmala. From spending a lovely day at the Jurmala beach to enjoying a relaxing time exploring the natural trails at Kemeri National Park, there’s a lot to do in Jurmala. Other notable attractions in this city are Kemeri Resort Park, Dzintari Forest Park and Viewing Tower, Jomas Street, etc.
Daugavpils is another very important city, coming second on the list of the largest cities in Latvia after Riga. Located some 230 kilometres from the capital, Daugavpils experiences quite the tourist footfall every year, thanks to its rich historical and cultural heritage. Some of the key tourist attractions of this city are the Latvian Railway History Museum, Daugavpils Fortress, Daugavpils Zoo, Mark Rothko Art Centre, etc.
Located not too far from Riga, roughly 47 kilometres away, is the town of Saulkrasti. Though small in size, the serene atmosphere and natural beauty of this town remain unrivalled. Known for its pristine beaches, delicious seafood and rich culture, tourists also visit this town to participate in fun activities like swimming, hiking, beach volleyball, etc. During your visit, don’t forget to check out the Saulkrasti Beach, White Dune, Seaside Park, etc.
To take your Latvia tourism experience to the next level, here are some fun experiences you can consider giving a try;
Spend time chatting and enjoying delicious coffee and snacks at one of the quaint coffee shops in the Riga Old Town.
Visit the Salaspils Memorial to witness giant statues, each representing unique feelings.
Explore Latvia’s majestic flora and fauna at your own pace by wandering through the Gauja National Park.
You can find several war memorials and sites restored and opened for public viewing in Latvia to give everyone a peek into regional history.
There are several castles across the country, which are an outstanding example of the beautiful architecture and diverse history of Latvia.
Visit the cosy town of Valmiera to have a romantic lunch by the serene Gauja River with your loved one.
Here are some handy tips to help you save some money while exploring Latvia;
You can find all kinds of stay options in Latvia. However, if you want to save money on accommodations, consider sticking to cheap hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, homestays, B&Bs, etc.
Instead of ordering food from the hotel or visiting posh restaurants, try the local food from small eateries. This way, you will get the authentic taste of Latvian dishes and save money on food.
Latvia is filled with tons of free tourist sites, including many beautiful parks, national forests, the green countryside, and more. Utilise such opportunities to the fullest.
It is a known fact that visiting any tourist spot during the peak season is the most expensive and the case is the same for Latvia. To get cheaper deals and good discounts on hotels, flights and sightseeing tours in Latvia, plan your trip during the off or shoulder season.
If you want to go sightseeing within the city and cover nearby distances, relying on a bicycle can be a good option. Bike rentals are available all across Latvia and are a great way to explore its natural beauty and tourist attractions.
Public transport in Latvia is another way to get from point A to point B in Latvia for cheap. It is reliable and can help you save quite a bit of money instead of relying on private transfers.
Invest in tourist-specific sightseeing and transport cards to get great deals. One such example is the Riga City Pass, which is specific towards the use of public transport, free sightseeing tours and free entry or discounted entry to tourist sites in Riga city. While on the track, do note to get Latvia travel insurance to keep your expenses to a minimum when dealing with unanticipated emergencies during the trip.
Here are some of the most renowned restaurants in Latvia for your Indian food wants;
Restaurant Name | Must-Try Dishes | Address |
Banana Leaf | Masala Dosa, Vistas Biryani, Panira Siers, etc. | Dzirnavu iela 113a-103, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia |
Indian Raja | Hariyali Salad, Tamatar ka Shorba, Onion Bhajis, etc. | Skārņu iela 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia |
Singh’s | Sheek Kebab, Murgh Pakora, Tandoori Wings, etc. | Ģertrūdes iela 32, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia |
Namaste | Tandoori, Samosa, Spring Rolls, etc. | Spulgas iela 25, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1058, Latvia |
Indiesu Kebab | Kebabs | Mazā Nometņu iela 27, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1002, Latvia |
Wok n Kurry | Murgh Lasooni, Paneer Do Pyaza, Basmati Rice and Kumina Seklam, etc. | Krišjāņa Barona iela 52, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia |
Before you visit Latvia for your vacation, it is advised to get some knowledge about their local laws and cultural etiquette. Here are some pointers that you may find useful;
• Use and possession of illegal drugs in Latvia carry severe penalties, ranging from heavy fines to jail time.
• Avoid drinking liquor in public places. Stick to only designated areas where it is allowed. Carrying open beer or wine containers in public can get you in trouble with the local authorities.
• In Latvia, the road rules state that driving should be on the right-hand side of the road and the legal driving age is 18, while the legal age for being able to rent a car is 21.
• Latvians value punctuality, so avoid being late when attending social gatherings or visiting someone’s home.
• Personal space is also valued in Latvia, so respect that.
• The general behaviour of locals in Latvia is polite and pretty reserved. Go for handshakes rather than a hug, especially if the other person is not very close to you.
Here are the details of the Indian Embassy for Latvia;
Embassy Name | Working Hours | Address |
Embassy of India (Sweden & Latvia) | Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM | Kornhamnstorg 4, 111 27 Stockholm |
Note: The Indian Minister of External Affairs has recently operationalised a new resident mission in Latvia’s capital, Riga, with effect from 25th July 2024. The address of the new embassy is;
• Embassy of India, Riga, Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Elizabetes Iela 55, Centra rajons, Riga, LV-1010.
Take your pick from the options below, so you can be better prepared for your trip to a foreign country
Here are some of the countries that require mandatory overseas travel insurance: This is an indicative list. It is advisable to check each country’s visa requirement independently before travel.
Source: VisaGuide.World
International travel insurance makes flight delays, loss of baggage and other journey-related inconveniences less bothersome.
A valid travel insurance is required to apply for a Latvia visa and enter the country. Besides, it also comes with comprehensive coverage, offering financial security in case of several medical and non-medical emergencies.
The Latvia travel insurance by HDFC ERGO will not offer coverage in case of breach of law, consumption of intoxicant substances, cosmetic and obesity treatment, pre-existing diseases, self-inflicted injuries, etc.
Being part of the Schengen Agreement, you will need to have valid travel medical insurance for Latvia that has a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses.
The cost of Latvia travel insurance varies as it depends on various factors, such as the type of policy picked, total coverage selected, total members insured, total duration of the trip, etc.
You can buy travel insurance for Latvia from India both offline or online, through an insurer of your choice. HDFC ERGO offers Latvia travel insurance that you can buy in a few simple steps via online or offline.
Yes. Besides reimbursements, Latvia travel insurance by HDFC ERGO also covers cashless treatment benefits through the hospitals under the insurer’s network.
If you plan on visiting Latvia with your family, investing in family travel insurance for Latvia will make the most sense. It secures multiple family members under one plan and premium and is cheaper and more manageable than buying individual policies.