Latvia in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Riga & Gulf Coast (Rīgas jūras līcis and Jūrmala)

March: Late winter thaws begin with patchy snowmelt and muddy side streets, temperatures typically around 0-5°C by late month and a damp rawness along the coast. Ķemeri bog trails start to open as boardwalks dry out, but lingering frost in the mornings makes footwear choice important. Travellers see early spring migrants arriving at birdwatching spots in the Gulf of Riga; packs should include a waterproof layer and layered clothing for shifting day-to-day conditions.

Kurzeme & West Coast (Liepāja, Ventspils, Cape Kolka and Kuldīga)

March: The first hints of thaw arrive and daytime temperatures climb to around 0-6°C, often turning coastal sand to sticky mud during thaw cycles. Migratory birds stop along the coast and Cape Kolka is good for watching early spring movement; small cafés start reopening in better spells. For visitors, this is a quieter time to see coastal towns without crowds, but waterproof footwear and patience for blustery days are necessary.

Vidzeme Uplands & Gauja Valley (Sigulda, Cēsis, Valmiera)

March: Early thaw sets in and day temperatures climb to about 0-6°C, but occasional snow or late frosts remain possible in the uplands. Trails can be muddy and slippery, turning the Gauja sandstone cliffs and paths into a tricky trek; waterfalls begin to swell with meltwater. This is a good shoulder-season time to avoid crowds, but bring waterproofs and expect variable conditions underfoot.

Zemgale Plains & Southern Latvia (Jelgava, Bauska, Rundāle)

March: Thawing begins unevenly across the plains; daytime temperatures climb to around 0-6°C, creating muddy conditions where snow melts into fields and roadside ruts. Rivers like the Lielupe can rise and local lowlands may flood in rapid thaws, so check conditions before planning riverside walks. Spring opens up quiet rural photography opportunities and early-season visits to palaces with fewer tourists, but pack waterproof boots.

Latgale & Eastern Lakes (Daugavpils, Rēzekne, Lake Rāzna, Lubāns)

March: The thaw is slower than on the coast-March often alternates frozen mornings and muddy afternoons with temperatures 0-5°C late in the month. Melting ice swells rivers and wetlands, sometimes causing spring floods; check local conditions before canoeing or lakeside camping. Travellers see early signs of spring migration, and it’s a quieter time to visit cultural sites like Daugavpils Fortress - pack waterproofs and warm midlayers.