Jurmala Visitor Information

Here are some other great places to explore after your Jurmala tour. And links to some of the music inspired by the resort.

Jūrmala is just 20 minutes' drive from Riga, and half that from the airport. There's a 3 euro charge for entering the resort, but no extra charges for parking. You can pay by cash or card at the machines at either end of Jurmala, or via the Mobilly app.

Regular commuter trains from Riga stop at all the main villages of Jurmala. It's about 30 minutes and 2 euros to Majori.

The local bus service is handy for getting to Ķemeri from the centre of Jurmala.

Cycling is a great way to get around. The leafy streets are well maintained and there's a decent bike path all the way from Riga to Jurmala. You can rent bikes locally in Bulduri.

Like any resort, Jūrmala has its share of overprices and underwhelming traps. But the following places are sure to leave you smiling.

Bitīte (Jomas iela 63) is a friendly cafe serving sandwiches, quiches, and eclairs. Perfect for a late breakfast or lunch.

Alus krodziņš (Jomas iela 64a) is a rustic-style pub serving filling Latvian dishes like grey peas with bacon and elk sausages for a reasonable price. 

Right on the beach at Dubulti, 36. line (Baznīcas iela 2b) is Jurmala's top fine dining experience. Start with Baltic herring sushi, move on to the catch of the day for two and finish with Riga Black Balsam tiramisu.

Near the entrance to Dzintari beach, the terrace at Muca (Turaidas iela 1) is a great for people watching and coffee, plus you can hear rehearsals at  Dzintari Concert Hall for free! Or if you want altitude, Seaside cocktail bar  (11th floor of Hotel Jurmala Spa) offers spectacular views and tempting cocktails. Enjoy the sunset with an Evening Symphony of gin, Campari and fresh grapefruit juice.

And don't miss the smoked fish shops in Ragaciems and the stalls with seasonal berries and vegies (pictured here) on Jomas iela.

Jurmala Open-Air Museum (in Lielupe) is a lovely park with antique fishing boats, fishermen's cottages and other reminders of the resort's seafaring heritage. Adjacent Ragakāpa Nature Reserve is a nice spot to explore pine forests. Jurmala City  Museum (Tirgoņu iela 29)  has a nice interactive history of the resort and changing art exhibitions in the exhibition hall. Art Station Dubulti (at Dubulti railway station) is the world's only art gallery in a working railway station. The wave-shaped building itself is a Soviet modernist masterpiece. Ķemeri National Park is a nature lovers' paradise on the western edge of Jurmala. Stroll along the duckboards in the wetlands, enjoy spectacular bird watching, and stroll the gardens of the historic hotel.

Also, read all about Jūrmala's spas and sanatoriums.

If you haven't already, please join me for a walk in Jurmala or a day exploring the resort.

Let me show you Riga's cathedrals, Art Nouveau masterpieces, or all the capital's top sights. Or get a blast of the Soviet past.

Or join me to sip Kurzeme wine or dine with witches in Sigulda.