Latvia in November: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Riga & Gulf Coast (Rīgas jūras līcis and Jūrmala)

November: Short daylight and damp, blustery conditions dominate as temperatures hover around 0-5°C; fog and low clouds are common over the gulf which makes early-morning views subdued. Riga’s cultural calendar fires up with indoor events, and seaside spas in Jūrmala offer a cosy alternative to raw outdoor days. Travellers should expect slick streets from drizzle and figure indoor plans into the itinerary.

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

November: The month tends towards rawness with frequent gales, fog and drizzle; temperatures hover near freezing and coastal exposure feels chilly. Many seasonal tourist services close and local life shifts indoors; ports remain active but leisure boating is largely finished for the year. If you’re visiting for photography or solitude, wrap up warm and expect bracing, muddy walks along the shore.

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

November: Short, chilly days and frequent fog in the lower valleys make November subdued; temperatures hover around −2°C to 4°C and snow may occur by month’s end. Indoor cultural venues and cafés are welcome refuges, and the quieter atmosphere is good for slow travel and photography of bare landscapes. Insulated footwear and warm layers are recommended as the weather turns distinctly wintry near month’s end.

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

November: Frost and the first snows can arrive, with daytime temperatures around −3°C to 4°C; the flat landscape makes cold air settle quickly. Indoor cultural sites like museums and manors are good choices, and small-town cafés provide warm local hospitality. For travel, ensure vehicles are winter-equipped and pack winter insulation for longer stays away from urban heating.

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

November: Cold sets back in and the first serious frosts and early snows can arrive with temperatures dipping below freezing; lakes start icing over intermittently. The landscape turns stark and peaceful-good for those seeking solitude and winter photography - but expect fewer open services and colder conditions for camping. Insulated clothing and winter-ready footwear are essential for safe travel.