Information about Latvia

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Latvia

Latvia sits right in the middle of the Baltic states in the northeastern part of Europe. It shares its borders with Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south, while Russia and Belarus lie to the east. To the west, the country opens up to the beautiful Baltic Sea with its long stretches of coastline. Most of the land here is quite flat and consists of vast fields, deep forests, and quiet marshes.

You will find plenty of water here because the landscape is dotted with lakes and crossed by many navigable rivers. While the terrain is mostly level, there are some gentle hills in the eastern part of the country. The highest point is called Gaizinkalns, which reaches just about three hundred and twelve meters. On the other hand, the lowest points are found right along the shores of the Baltic Sea.

Nature is a huge part of life here, and about a fifth of the whole country is under some form of environmental protection. There are four large national parks and dozens of smaller nature reserves that keep the wild areas pristine. Major rivers like the Daugava and the Gauja flow through the country, creating beautiful valleys and scenic views. The Venta and Lielupe rivers are also important for the local ecosystem and history.

On the political side of things, the country operates as a parliamentary democracy. This means that the main legislative power belongs to the parliament, which locals call the Saeima. While there is a president who serves as the head of state, much of the daily governing is handled through this parliamentary system. It is a stable setup that has been in place since the country regained its independence.

Riga is the capital city and it really stands out as the largest urban center in the entire Baltic region. It is not just a place where people live, but a massive hub for finance, culture, and industry. Around one million people call the greater Riga area home, spread across a city that covers over three hundred square kilometers. It serves as the beating heart of the country’s business and political life.

The history of this land goes back a long way to when it was first settled by various Baltic tribes. By the tenth century, these groups had already started forming their own local governments and systems. However, things changed significantly in the twelfth century when German influence began to grow. In the year twelve hundred and one, a German bishop named Albert founded the city of Riga.

For the next five centuries, German forces and nobility mostly controlled what we now know as Latvia. This lasted until the early eighteenth century when the Russian Empire took over the territory. It was only much later, toward the end of the nineteenth century, that a strong sense of national identity really began to take hold. People started pushing for their own culture and language to be recognized.

Latvia finally declared its independence in nineteen eighteen, right after the first world war ended. It even joined the League of Nations just a few years later as a recognized sovereign state. However, the twentieth century brought more challenges, including occupation by German forces during the second world war. After that conflict ended, the country was absorbed into the Soviet Union for several decades.

Everything changed again in the early nineties when the Soviet Union began to fall apart. In nineteen ninety one, the country successfully reclaimed its independence and started a new chapter as a modern state. This journey led to joining the European Union in two thousand and four. Today, it is a country that respects its complex past while looking firmly toward a modern European future.

Regions and resorts Latvia

Nature Latvia

Latvia is often seen as one of the last true wild spots in Europe because so much of its nature has stayed untouched. You can find over twenty-seven thousand different types of plants and animals living in conditions that haven't changed much for centuries. Because humans haven't over-developed every corner of the country, wildlife has a lot of room to thrive. It is a place where nature really sets the pace of life.

Forests are everywhere here, covering about forty percent of the entire country. You will find more than two hundred types of trees and shrubs, including many species that were brought in from other parts of the world. However, about half of these are native trees that have been here since the last ice age. Walking through these woods, you will mostly see Scots pines, which make up two-thirds of the forest cover.

Some of the oldest pines in these forests have been standing for over five hundred years. As you move further inland, the variety of trees starts to change and you see more spruce and beech trees. You will also come across sturdy oaks, ash trees, and fragrant lime trees scattered throughout the landscape. In certain areas, you might even find yew trees and juniper bushes growing in the wild.

Beyond the woods, about a quarter of the land is made up of lush green pastures and meadows. During the warm summer months, these fields are filled with colorful plants like clover, yarrow, and wild caraway. There are also quite a few wetlands and bogs, which cover about ten percent of the country. These damp areas are mostly covered in thick moss, but you can also find wild rosemary and heather blooming there.

Local people have a very close relationship with their forests, especially when it comes to gathering food. These woods provide a massive supply of wild berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. When autumn arrives, almost everyone heads out to pick mushrooms, which is practically a national sport. The most sought-after ones are chanterelles, porcini, and various types of russula mushrooms.

The animal life in these forests is just as impressive and varied as the plants. It is very common to spot roe deer, red deer, or even a massive elk stepping through the trees. Wild boars and beavers are also quite active, especially near the many rivers and streams that cross the country. It is the kind of place where you can still feel like you are in a truly wild environment.

Latvia is also home to some serious predators that have disappeared from many other parts of Europe. Wolves and lynx roam the deeper parts of the woods, keeping the ecosystem in balance. You will also find smaller hunters like red foxes, martens, and badgers. Interestingly, the raccoon dog was introduced here in the late nineteen forties and has become a very common sight since then.

Some of the species living here are quite rare and have special protection to make sure they don't disappear. This includes the brown bear and the northern flying squirrel, which are very hard to find. You might also spot a pond bat or a northern birch mouse if you know where to look. Even the local otters are protected because they are an important part of the clean river systems.

If you look toward the ground, you might see several types of reptiles like common lizards or grass snakes. There are even a few very rare species like the smooth snake and the European pond turtle that live in specific protected areas. These animals rely on the fact that the environment remains clean and undisturbed by heavy industry. It is a fragile balance that the country works hard to maintain.

The bird population is another highlight, with over three hundred and fifty different species recorded across the country. More than a hundred of these species choose to build their nests specifically in the Latvian forests. You can find rare birds like the black stork, the lesser spotted eagle, and even the tiny pygmy owl. To keep all this life safe, the government has set up four national parks and several biosphere reserves.

Climate Latvia

The weather in Latvia is generally described as a cool temperate climate, which means you get four very distinct seasons. Summers are usually quite pleasant and mild, with temperatures typically staying between nineteen and twenty-three degrees Celsius. Winters, however, can be a different story as they often bring freezing temperatures and a fair amount of snow. It is the kind of place where the landscape changes completely every few months.

If you are staying near the coast, you will notice that it is much more humid than the rest of the country. This is mostly because of the southwest winds coming off the Baltic Sea, which bring in moisture and clouds. As you move toward the eastern part of the country, the climate becomes more continental. This means the summers there can feel a bit hotter and drier, but the winters are usually much harsher.

Autumn is a time of transition that often brings a lot of rain, thick fog, and occasional storms. As the year winds down, the days become incredibly short, sometimes giving only about seven hours of daylight in the middle of winter. This lack of sunlight means the air doesn't have much of a chance to warm up during the day. Depending on the year, you might get hit by icy winds blowing in from the Arctic or Siberia.

January is typically the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from minus three on the coast to minus seven in the east. However, it is not unusual for the thermometer to drop all the way down to minus thirty during a particularly cold snap. When this happens, the whole country turns into a frozen wonderland for a few weeks. It takes a while for things to thaw out, and spring usually doesn't arrive until May.

Once spring finally shows up, the whole country seems to explode into bloom almost overnight. Summer follows shortly after and is generally the driest time of the year, making it perfect for being outdoors. While temperatures usually stay in the low twenties, they can sometimes spike up to thirty degrees during a heatwave. July stands out as the warmest month of the year, with long days and very short nights.

One thing that surprises many visitors is how evenly the rain is distributed throughout the year. You won't find a specific "rainy season" like in some other parts of the world, though some months are wetter than others. In the northern regions, the difference in daylight between seasons is massive. You might get only six hours of sun in December, but nearly eighteen hours during the peak of June.

Because the country is so close to the sea and full of wetlands, the humidity is often very high, around eighty percent. This high moisture level can make the cold feel more biting in the winter and the heat feel more intense in the summer. It also contributes to the frequent morning mists that give the Latvian countryside a mystical appearance. The coastal breeze helps keep the air fresh, especially in the busy summer months.

If you are planning a trip, the best window to visit is definitely between May and September. During these months, you get the most comfortable temperatures and the longest days to explore. Even though you might run into some rain, the warmth makes it much easier to enjoy the nature and the cities. It is the time when the country is most alive, with outdoor cafes and festivals everywhere.

Transport in Latvia

Getting around Latvia is actually quite simple whether you prefer traveling by land, sea, or air. The country has worked hard to build a solid infrastructure that connects it to the rest of the world. Riga is the main starting point for most people, as it holds the largest international airport and the biggest train station in the region. From there, you can easily find a way to reach even the smallest villages.

The bus system is one of the most reliable ways to see the country without spending a lot of money. There are regular routes that connect all the major cities and even many of the remote rural areas. You can find all the information you need, like schedules and ticket prices, at the local stations or online. If you are staying in Riga, you have your pick of trams, trolleys, and city buses to get around.

Trains are another great option, especially if you want to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The railway network spreads out from the capital in seven different directions, reaching towns like Liepaja, Daugavpils, and Valga. One of the most interesting parts of the system is the historic narrow-gauge line between Gulbene and Aluksne. It is a bit of a living museum and is the only line that doesn't pass through the capital.

If you need a quick ride within the city, taxis are available everywhere and are generally very well-regulated. You can easily spot them by their distinct yellow license plates and the light on the roof. Most taxis also have emblems on the doors so you know exactly which company you are using. It is a convenient way to get home late at night or when you have a lot of luggage.

For those who like to have more control over their schedule, renting a car is a fantastic idea. It gives you the freedom to stop whenever you see a beautiful lake or a hidden forest path. The roads are generally in good condition, and driving between towns is a great way to see how the landscape changes. Having your own wheels means you aren't tied to any specific bus or train timetable.

In the warmer months, many people choose to get around on two wheels instead of four. Most Latvian cities are quite friendly to cyclists, and you can find bike rental spots almost everywhere you look. It is a healthy and fun way to explore the parks and the historic streets of the old towns. Cycling along the coast is especially popular because the terrain is mostly flat and very scenic.

Latvia also makes good use of its location on the Baltic Sea with three major ports in Riga, Ventspils, and Liepaja. These ports aren't just for cargo; they offer regular ferry services to places like Stockholm and Germany. It is a unique way to arrive in the country, coming in from the sea and seeing the coastline from a distance. Traveling by water adds a bit of adventure to any trip through the region.

Finally, there is the Riga International Airport, which is the busiest one in the Baltic states. It handles millions of passengers every year and connects Latvia to almost every major city in Europe. The airport is modern, efficient, and located just a short drive from the center of the capital. Whether you are arriving for business or a vacation, it provides a smooth entry point into the country.

Money and shopping in Latvia

Since the start of twenty-fourteen, Latvia has been using the Euro as its official currency. If you need to get some cash, you can easily exchange your money at banks or specialized exchange offices found in most cities. There is also a very reliable network of ATMs that accept almost all major international credit and debit cards. You won't have much trouble finding a place to withdraw money even in smaller towns.

In most places like restaurants, shops, and hotels, you can simply pay with your card. Even gas stations and smaller boutiques usually have card terminals, so you don't always need to carry a lot of cash. However, it is still a good idea to have some coins or small bills if you plan on visiting local markets. These markets are a huge part of the local culture and offer a very different experience than modern malls.

Shopping in Latvia is a mix of high-end modern centers and traditional open-air bazaars. The big malls usually have everything under one roof, including places to eat and watch movies. But if you want something more authentic, the local markets are where you will find the real spirit of the country. These are the best places to look for unique items that have a bit of history behind them.

When it comes to souvenirs, amber is definitely the most famous thing you can buy. Often called "Baltic gold," this fossilized resin is gathered right from the shores of the sea. You will see it everywhere, from simple raw pieces to beautifully crafted jewelry in silver or gold. It is a classic gift that people have been taking home from this region for centuries.

The local textile tradition is also something quite special and very high quality. Craftsmen here use natural fibers like wool and linen to make incredibly comfortable and stylish clothing. You can find heavy wool shawls that are perfect for a cold winter or light linen scarves for the summer. These items are often handmade and feature traditional patterns that have been passed down through generations.

Leather working is another area where Latvian artists really show off their skills. You can find beautiful journals bound in thick, high-quality leather or handmade wallets and belts. Many of these items are decorated with ancient symbols that have deep roots in local folklore. They make for very durable and personal gifts that you won't find in a typical mass-market store.

If you like home decor, you should definitely check out the local ceramics and porcelain. Artists here create everything from whimsical little figurines to very elegant vases and dinnerware. The styles range from very traditional and earthy to sleek and modern. It is a great way to bring a piece of the local artistic spirit back to your own home.

Metalwork is also very popular, especially jewelry made from silver or bronze. These pieces often feature ancient pagan signs and symbols that were once believed to protect the wearer. Each symbol has its own specific meaning, and the people selling them are usually happy to explain the traditions behind them. It is a beautiful way to connect with the ancient history of the Baltic tribes.

Finally, don't leave without trying some of the local honey, which is famous for its purity. Because there are so many wild areas, the bees produce honey that is completely natural and full of flavor. You can find many different varieties depending on which flowers were in bloom when the honey was collected. It is a sweet and healthy reminder of the clean, green environment that makes Latvia so special.

Main attractions Latvia

Latvia really is a place where you can experience the best of both worlds. You get the sophisticated energy of a big city right alongside the warm and genuine hospitality of the countryside. It is the kind of place where every visitor feels truly welcome from the moment they arrive. You can spend your days exploring ancient stone castles, wandering through deep green valleys, or just relaxing on the endless stretches of sandy beaches along the Baltic coast.

Riga stands out as a genuine urban treasure in this part of the world. The narrow, winding cobblestone streets feel like they belong in a storybook, especially when you look up and see the sharp spires of St. Peter's Church reaching into the sky. The House of the Blackheads is another sight you cannot miss, as its reconstructed facade looks incredibly elegant and tells a story of the city’s rich trading history. Walking through the old town feels like stepping back in time while still having modern comforts at your fingertips.

If you want to understand the soul of the country, you should head to the Turaida Museum-Reserve near Sigulda. This area is packed with history, from the imposing medieval castle to the fascinating museum that sits inside it. You can also visit the Folk Song Hill to learn about the musical roots of the people and take in the massive views over the Gauja River valley. It is one of those spots where nature and history seem to blend together perfectly.

Rundale Palace is perhaps the most refined piece of history you will find here. It was actually a gift from the Russian Empress Catherine the Great and remains a stunning example of royal architecture. The palace is surrounded by beautiful rose gardens and green lawns designed in the English style. Walking through the grounds makes you feel the weight of the past and the elegance of the people who once lived there.

Cesis is another town that feels deeply connected to its roots, dating back over eight hundred years. The local castle was built in the 13th century and still dominates the landscape today. One of the coolest things you can do there is take a tour of the castle towers using only a handheld lantern to light your way. It is a bit spooky but also very exciting to see the old stone walls by candlelight just like people did centuries ago.

For anyone who feels a connection to the sea, the Seaside Open-Air Museum in Ventspils is a great stop. This place is dedicated entirely to the lives of fishermen and the history of boating in the region. They have over twenty-four thousand different items on display, ranging from massive old boats to tiny household tools. It gives you a real sense of how hard and interesting life was for the people living along the coast.

Bauska Castle sits on a very unique piece of land right where the Musa and Memele rivers meet. The site is actually split into two distinct sections that tell different stories. One part is the ruins of a 15th-century Livonian Order castle which looks very rugged and weathered. The other part is a much more polished residence built for the Dukes of Courland in the 16th century, offering a glimpse into a more comfortable era of history.

Tourism in Latvia

The village of Slutiski is a quiet place tucked away in the Daugava region, and it is famous for its connection to the Old Believers. It is surrounded by the winding curves of the Daugava River, making the scenery look like something out of a painting. Latvia has a very long coastline and more lakes and forests than you can count. This makes the country an incredible playground for anyone who enjoys spending time in the fresh air and being active outdoors.

Getting out on the water in a boat is one of the best ways to see the landscape from a different perspective. As you float down the rivers, you will pass by thick forests and steep sandstone cliffs that you simply cannot see from the road. Most travelers find that there is something very peaceful about being out on the water away from the noise of the city. It is the kind of experience that recharges your batteries and makes you appreciate nature.

If you are looking for a bit more excitement, the Livu Waterpark in Jurmala is one of the biggest in Northern Europe. It has all sorts of pools and massive slides that people of all ages seem to enjoy. You can spend a whole day there splashing around and trying out different water attractions. It is a perfect spot for families or just groups of friends looking to have a bit of fun regardless of the weather outside.

The Baltic Sea coast and the many inland lakes are perfect for anyone interested in windsurfing. Because the coastline is so varied, you can usually find a spot where the wind is blowing just right for kiting or surfing. You just have to drive a little bit to find a beach where the wind is hitting the shore at the right angle. It is a very popular hobby for locals who love the thrill of the waves.

Latvia is mostly flat, which makes it a fantastic place for cross-country skiing during the winter months. There is something really special about skiing along the wide, snowy beaches when the sea is frozen. Even though there are no massive mountains, there are several hills with groomed trails where you can rent gear and hire an instructor. Ice fishing is another big winter tradition that you will see people doing on almost every frozen lake you pass.

Cycling is probably the most rewarding way to explore the countryside at your own pace. There are many scenic paths and quiet backroads that take you through tiny fishing villages and past hidden medieval ruins. You can stop whenever you want to explore a cave or just take a photo of an old castle. It is a slow way of traveling that lets you really soak in the atmosphere of the rural areas.

Around the areas of Cesis and Sigulda, the Gauja valley becomes a hub for more intense sports like rafting and canoeing. If you are a fan of adrenaline, you can try things like mountain boarding or even bungee jumping from a cable car. One of the most unique things you can do is visit the bobsleigh track. You can actually ride a real bobsled at speeds reaching one hundred kilometers per hour, which is an experience you won't soon forget.

Accommodation in Latvia

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Latvia, you have plenty of choices that fit any budget or style. If you are heading out into the beautiful countryside, you will find lots of cozy guest houses and traditional farmsteads. These places often feel more like a home than a hotel, giving you a real taste of local life. They are usually run by friendly families who are happy to share tips about the best spots to visit nearby.

For those who want a bit of luxury, there are many high-end hotels located in some of the most scenic parts of the country. You can stay right in the heart of Riga's old town in a building that is hundreds of years old but full of modern comforts. There are also beautiful spa hotels along the Baltic coast where you can relax with a view of the sea. The quality of service in these places is usually very high and matches international standards.

Riga definitely has the widest variety of places to sleep, from famous international chains to small boutique hotels. Many of these boutique spots are unique because they are decorated with local art and furniture. You can also find plenty of family-run businesses that offer a more personal touch. No matter where you stay in the capital, you are usually just a short walk away from a great cafe or a historic landmark.

If you are planning a romantic getaway, you will not be disappointed by the options available. There are secluded lodges tucked away in the woods and tiny, charming pensions in the smaller towns. Some of the upscale boutique hotels offer special packages for couples looking for a bit of privacy and elegance. It is easy to find a quiet corner of the country where you can just relax and enjoy each other's company.

Staying in an old castle or a manor house is an experience that is hard to beat. Many of these historic buildings have been turned into hotels that offer ultra-modern amenities while keeping their old-world charm. These manors often host interesting events like art exhibitions, traditional balls, or seasonal festivals. It is a great way to feel like royalty for a night or two while learning about the history of the estate.

Guest houses are a smart choice if you are traveling with a larger group and want to see the rural side of the country. They usually provide a very relaxed atmosphere and high-quality service without being too formal. If you appreciate being close to nature and want to wake up to the sound of birds, this is definitely the way to go. Most of them have big gardens or outdoor areas where you can sit and enjoy the fresh air.

Holiday homes are very common in smaller towns and near the coast, and they are usually rented out to people who want more privacy. These are great if you want to cook your own meals and have a whole house to yourself. It gives you a level of comfort and independence that you might not get in a standard hotel. It is a popular choice for people who want to stay in one place for a week or more.

There are also dozens of hostels spread across the country for those traveling on a tighter budget. Many of them are part of international networks and offer clean, basic rooms. You can choose to stay in a shared dorm to meet other travelers or book a private room if you prefer. Self-catering apartments are another great option, especially in Riga, and you can rent them for a single night or for several weeks.

Kitchen and dishes Latvia

Latvia is a fantastic place for anyone who loves good food, offering a mix of old-fashioned recipes and modern cooking styles. Since the country sits right on the edge of the Baltic Sea, fish has always been a major part of the local diet. You will find that many dishes are only served at certain times of the year because people prefer to use fresh, seasonal ingredients. Things like wheat, barley, potatoes, and cabbage are the building blocks of most traditional meals.

Meat is usually the star of the show, with pork being the most popular choice for a hearty dinner. The cooking style often involves a lot of butter and herbs like dill, caraway seeds, and black pepper to add flavor. You will rarely find anything that is overly spicy or hot, as the local palate prefers rich and savory tastes. Dairy products are also everywhere, and people love adding sour cream or cottage cheese to almost everything they eat.

Bread is treated with a lot of respect here and is considered a staple that no meal is complete without. The most famous type is a dark, heavy rye bread known as Rupjmaize, which has a very distinct and deep flavor. If you have a sweet tooth, you should try a Sklandrausis, which is a traditional vegetable tart. It has a crunchy rye crust and is filled with a sweet mixture of mashed potatoes and carrots, topped with caraway seeds.

Because the winters can be quite long and cold, Latvians have become experts at preserving their food. This means you will see a lot of homemade fruit jams, pickled vegetables, and smoked meats on the table. It is a tradition that has been passed down through generations to make sure there is always something good to eat. Even in the modern world, many people still prefer the taste of their own home-canned pickles or dried mushrooms.

A very typical meal might include herring served with cottage cheese and boiled potatoes. It sounds simple, but when the ingredients are fresh, it is incredibly satisfying and represents the local flavors perfectly. You will also see breaded pork chops on many menus, which are a real comfort food for locals. During the winter months, hot sauerkraut becomes a regular side dish, especially when the holidays are approaching.

When it comes to drinks, beer is definitely the most popular choice among the locals. Most people prefer a dark lager, but you can also find interesting varieties made with honey or even cranberries. It is a big part of the social culture, and you will see many local breweries popping up all over the country. There is a lot of pride in the way beer is crafted here, using traditional methods and local grains.

Latvians are also quite skilled at making delicious desserts that use local fruits and grains. You might find a layered rye bread dessert that is mixed with cream, jam, and a hint of cinnamon. Other popular treats include mint-flavored creme brulee or potato pancakes served with sweet lingonberry jam. Even simple things like an apple pie with vanilla sauce or a rich chocolate brownie are made with a lot of care and high-quality ingredients.

Culture and traditions Latvia

The culture in Latvia is deeply tied to old folklore that speaks about the love people have for their land and their homes. When you first meet a local, they might seem a bit quiet or reserved, but they are actually very polite and welcoming once the ice is broken. A simple handshake is the standard way to greet someone new. They tend to be very direct when they speak, so you always know exactly what they are thinking.

Latvian is the official language spoken throughout the country, but you will hear plenty of English, Russian, and German as well. People are generally quite good at languages, especially in the larger cities and tourist areas. Religion also plays a role in daily life, with many people following Lutheran, Catholic, or Orthodox traditions. You will see many beautiful old churches scattered across both the cities and the small rural villages.

Traditions are still a very big deal here and help define who the people are today. This cultural identity is expressed through things like literature, theater, and fine arts. If you look closely, you will see traditional patterns and symbols used in modern clothing and design. It is a country that respects its past while moving forward into the future with a lot of creativity.

Latvia is famous all over the world for its incredible tradition of choral singing. In fact, when the country was working toward its independence, the movement was called the Singing Revolution because music was such a powerful tool for the people. There are millions of folk songs, called dainas, that have been collected over hundreds of years. These songs tell stories about everyday life, nature, and the history of the Baltic people.

Folk dancing is another important part of the heritage, with styles that date back thousands of years. These dances usually tell stories about farming, celebrations, or romantic relationships. You will often see groups of performers in beautiful traditional costumes dancing at festivals and public events. It is a very lively and colorful way to see the history of the region come to life through movement.

While the history of written Latvian literature is only about a hundred and fifty years old, a lot has been achieved in that time. Famous writers like Rainis and Aspazija helped shape the national identity through their poems and plays. Today, you can find a lot of historical novels and stories that describe what life was like during different eras of occupation and freedom. It is a great way for people to stay connected to their roots.

Modern artists in Latvia are very interested in exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what art can be. Whether they are working with painting, sculpture, or digital video, their work often reflects the complex history of the country. You might see influences from the Soviet era mixed with Western styles or political themes. It makes the local art scene very dynamic and interesting to explore in the many galleries in Riga.

Sports are also a big part of life, with football and ice hockey being the most popular ones to watch. Basketball has a very long history here too, and the national team even won the very first European championship back in the thirties. Most of the big festivals and holidays revolve around music and dance. If you visit in the summer, you can catch events like the Song and Dance Festival or medieval fairs that bring thousands of people together.