- Daugavpils serves as the primary cultural and economic center of the Latgale region, which is historically and linguistically distinct from the rest of Latvia.
- The city has undergone multiple name changes throughout its history, previously being known as Dinaburg, Borisoglebsk, and Daugavpils under various administrative regimes.
- The city's urban layout retains a significant number of red-brick buildings constructed during the late 19th century, creating one of the most cohesive architectural streetscapes in the Baltic states.
- Due to its location at the intersection of major rail lines, Daugavpils developed historically as a key transit node between the Baltic Sea and the Eurasian interior.
About Daugavpils
Daugavpils is Latvia's second-largest city and a historic industrial center situated on the banks of the Daugava River near the borders of Lithuania and Belarus. Its cityscape is anchored by the formidable 19th-century Daugavpils Fortress, which serves as a central hub for cultural institutions like the Rotko muzejs. Religious architecture defines the skyline, featuring the distinctive domes of the Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Boris and Gleb and the red-brick spires of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitors often congregate in Dubrovin Park, a vital green space that mirrors the city's transition from an imperial Russian military outpost to a modern cultural destination.
Highlights of Daugavpils
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
This massive 19th-century military fortification remains the only original Vauban-style fortress in Northern Europe.
Museums
The museum houses the world's largest collection of works by abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, who was born in the city.
Temples
This cathedral is renowned for its elaborate interior murals and its significance as an architectural icon of the city.
Museums
Exhibits explore the historical production of traditional Latgalian spirits, highlighting the region's unique distilling heritage.
Parks
This urban park is a central landmark dedicated to Pavel Dubrovin, a former mayor instrumental in the city's early development.
Zoos
The facility focuses on the unique biodiversity of the Latgale region, featuring various aquatic and terrestrial species.
Temples
Known for its towering spires, this Catholic church is a notable example of neo-Gothic architecture in the city.
Amusement parks
This interactive space provides educational exhibits on science and technology specifically designed for families.
Top things to do in Daugavpils
The 58 highest-rated places in Daugavpils, ranked by travellers.
1
Places of interest
The Lake Zarasai Observation Circle is a unique architectural structure extending 17 meters above the surface of Lake Za...
2
Museums
Rotko muzejs is the only institution in Eastern Europe featuring a permanent collection of original works by Mark Rothko...
3
Historical places
Daugavpils Fortress is an early 19th-century fortification complex located on the right bank of the Daugava River in Lat...
4
Parks
Dubrovin Park is the primary municipal park in Daugavpils, Latvia, originally established in the late 19th century throu...
5
Zoos
Latgale Zoo is a specialized center located in Daugavpils focused on the conservation and display of exotic animals, par...
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Places of interest
Stelmužė Oak is the oldest living oak tree in Lithuania and one of the oldest in Europe, with an estimated age ranging f...
7
Places of interest
Šlyninkos vandens malūnas is a 300-year-old operational water mill located in the Zarasai district of Lithuania. The str...
8
Museums
Puppet Kingdom (Leļļu Karaļvalsts) is a private art museum in Preiļi featuring an extensive collection of handmade dolls...
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Museums
The Shmakovka Museum in Daugavpils is the only museum in Latvia dedicated to the history and production of the regional...
10
Temples
Salakas Church of Our Lady of Sorrows is a distinctive Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church built entirely from dressed fiel...
11
Venues
Daugavpils Theatre is the only professional repertory theatre in the Latgale region of Latvia. Located in a historic bui...
12
Temples
The Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Boris and Gleb serves as the primary religious center for the Orthodox community in Dau...
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Museums
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Parks
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Amusement parks
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Temples
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Temples
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Parks
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Museums
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Temples
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Temples
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Historical places
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Museums
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Parks
Around Daugavpils
Worth the short trip out of the city.
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Daugavpils on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Daugavpils
Late May to early September, as the warm weather is ideal for exploring the extensive grounds of the fortress and outdoor parks.
2-3 days to explore the fortress complex and city center museums at a steady pace.
The city operates an extensive tram network, which is the oldest in Latvia, supplemented by buses and high walkability in the central historic districts.
Staying near the city center or the vicinity of the Daugavpils Fortress provides the best access to primary tourist sites and public transit links.
Generally budget to mid-range for European standards, offering affordable dining and entry fees compared to major Western European capitals.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 58 curated attractions in and around Daugavpils, ranked by traveller ratings.
Lake Zarasai Observation Circle is the highest-rated place to visit in Daugavpils right now.
The largest category is temples, with 16 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Riga, Sigulda, Jelgava.
Explore more of Latvia
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
