Student Life in Latvia
Latvia is a safe and welcoming country, rich in culture and tradition. Known for its strong choral singing heritage—so much so that the movement for Baltic independence was called the Singing Revolution—Latvia takes pride in its deep-rooted folk music, particularly the centuries-old daina style. Beyond music, Latvians have a passion for contemporary arts, literature, ice hockey, and theater, making it a vibrant place to live and study.
A Taste of Latvian Culture
One of the joys of living in Latvia is its diverse cuisine, which blends traditional and modern flavors. Staples of Latvian food include brown rye bread, grey peas with bacon, beetroot soup, and Jāņi cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, debesmanna, a light cranberry mousse, is a must-try. Whether you are exploring local markets or dining in a contemporary restaurant, Latvia offers a culinary experience that reflects its cultural diversity.
Cities to Explore as a Student in Latvia
Latvia is home to several vibrant cities, each offering unique opportunities for students.
Riga: The Cultural and Economic Hub
As Latvia’s capital and largest city, Riga is a bustling center of culture, history, and education. With a population of approximately 700,000, it is the country’s economic and financial powerhouse, contributing over half of Latvia’s GDP. Known for its remarkable architectural blend of medieval, baroque, and art nouveau styles, Riga is home to the world’s largest collection of art nouveau buildings. The city’s historic center, Vecrīga, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its medieval churches and cathedrals.
Riga is also a major center for higher education, housing some of Latvia’s top universities, including the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University (RTU), and Riga Stradins University (RSU). Additionally, the city is home to the Stockholm School of Economics in Riga, which offers all courses in English, as well as the Art Academy of Latvia and the Latvian University of Agriculture.
Daugavpils: A Historic and Multicultural City
Daugavpils, Latvia’s second-largest city, is home to around 95,000 residents and is located in the country’s southeast. Its name, meaning “Daugava Castle,” hints at its historical significance. The city is known for its red-brick architecture and diverse cultural landscape, with a large Russian-speaking population. A hub for music and arts, Daugavpils frequently hosts cultural festivals and events.
The city is home to Daugavpils University, while Riga Technical University also has an affiliate branch here, providing students with access to quality higher education.
Liepāja: The Seaside and Music Capital
Situated on Latvia’s western coast along the Baltic Sea, Liepāja is the country’s third-largest city, with approximately 82,000 residents. Renowned for its pristine Blue Flag beaches, Liepāja is a popular summer retreat and a great destination for students who enjoy seaside living.
Often referred to as the "capital of Latvian rock music," Liepāja boasts a dynamic cultural scene, with three concert halls and numerous music festivals, including the massive Summer Sound beach party. Recent investments in education have enhanced the city’s academic offerings, with Riga Technical University operating a branch in Liepāja.
Studying in Latvia
Latvia offers an enriching experience for students, combining academic excellence with a lively cultural environment. Whether in the bustling capital of Riga, the historic streets of Daugavpils, or the coastal charm of Liepāja, students can enjoy a high-quality education alongside a diverse and vibrant way of life.
