
Turaida Castle Sigulda
Explore medieval history and legends at Turaida Castle, a beautifully preserved museum reserve with stunning views and a captivating sculpture park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Turaida Castle Sigulda
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore medieval history and legends at Turaida Castle, a beautifully preserved museum reserve with stunning views and a captivating sculpture park.
"The climb up the tower is a workout, but the sweeping views of the Gauja River and landscape are absolutely rewarding!"

Climb the Tower for Views
Don't miss climbing the castle tower for incredible panoramic views of the Gauja River valley! :mountain_climbing:
Explore the Sculpture Park
The sculpture park is a hidden gem, well-maintained and offering a unique artistic experience. :art:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Castle Tower
Turaida Castle
Climb 139 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the Gauja River and lush surroundings.

Sculpture Park
Turaida Museum Reserve
Wander through a beautifully maintained park featuring intriguing sculptures and art installations.

Rosa of Turaida's Story
Turaida Museum Reserve
Discover the poignant legend of Rosa of Turaida, brought to life by guides and exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Climb the Tower for Views
Don't miss climbing the castle tower for incredible panoramic views of the Gauja River valley! :mountain_climbing:
Explore the Sculpture Park
The sculpture park is a hidden gem, well-maintained and offering a unique artistic experience. :art:
Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can enrich your visit with historical details and local stories, like that of Rosa of Turaida. :scroll:
Check for Events
Live music concerts and folk song events are sometimes held, adding a special atmosphere. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
Climb the Tower for Views
Don't miss climbing the castle tower for incredible panoramic views of the Gauja River valley! :mountain_climbing:
Explore the Sculpture Park
The sculpture park is a hidden gem, well-maintained and offering a unique artistic experience. :art:
Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can enrich your visit with historical details and local stories, like that of Rosa of Turaida. :scroll:
Check for Events
Live music concerts and folk song events are sometimes held, adding a special atmosphere. :musical_note:
Autumn is Magical
Visit in autumn for breathtaking foliage; the castle looks stunning against the colorful backdrop. :maple_leaf:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Turaida Castle for its fascinating history, rewarding tower climb with stunning views, and the well-maintained sculpture park. The fair entry fee and easy parking are also noted positives. Some mention ongoing construction, but it generally doesn't detract from the experience.
"A truly peaceful and picturesque place. The castle itself is modest, but the surrounding gardens are stunning — beautifully designed with thoughtful planting and a perfect harmony of colors and textures. Walking here feels like stepping into a living painting, a real moment of serenity. Huge compliments to whoever created and maintains this landscape!"
emma wang
"We visited in November. Turaida castle is really worth visiting. When you arrive to a parking lot, there are plenty of spots to park. You can pay for it in the museum which is like a minute away and you don't have to go back to put it in your car, just take it with yourself, it costs 2€. The ticket for the castle was just 6€ which is honestly not much, we saw many castles in different countries which where not that worth as this one and were more expensive. Except of the castle you can visit many other places and building here, like the church, the souvenir shop or the jewelry shop which offers plenty of beautiful hand made jewelries. Turaida castle itself is right now in reconstruction but was really beautiful. You can go inside every door which you can find, meaning that you can see plenty of expositions with stuff found during excavations, see some photographies, old armors, go up in the tower to see the whole castle and it's surroundings. The whole place is quite wast so you can spend there hours walking around, enjoying the atmosphere."
Silvia Bánovská
"A visit to this castle is definitely worth it! Parking is easy and costs around 3€. Just give your license plate number at the ticket counter when buying your ticket. Entry for adults is €8, which is fair considering what you get to see.
The castle itself is fascinating and full of history. The real highlight is the tower:
The climb is a bit of a workout, but reaching the top is absolutely rewarding. From above, you’re treated to sweeping views of the Gauja River and the surrounding landscape.
Around the castle, a small park area invites you to stroll and explore.
As of September 2025, there are construction works on the grounds, but they don’t really take away from the overall experience."
Laura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turaida Castle is conveniently located across the Gauja River from Sigulda. You can reach it by car, with parking available at the castle grounds. For those without a car, it's a pleasant walk or bike ride from Sigulda, offering scenic views along the way. Public transport options might also be available, but checking local schedules is recommended.
Yes, Turaida Castle is a popular day trip destination from Riga. The journey typically involves taking a train or bus to Sigulda, and then proceeding to the castle. Many visitors combine a trip to Turaida Castle with exploring other attractions in the Sigulda area.
Parking is available and easy to find at Turaida Castle. The cost is approximately 3€, and you'll need to provide your license plate number at the ticket counter when purchasing your entry ticket.
Absolutely! Cycling is a great way to explore the area around Sigulda and Turaida. Many visitors enjoy bike rides that lead them to the castle, offering beautiful scenery.
Turaida Castle is an excellent choice for a day trip from Riga. It offers a rich historical experience and beautiful natural surroundings, making it a worthwhile excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for adults to Turaida Castle is €8. This price is considered fair for the historical insights and the opportunity to explore the castle, museum, and park. Special rates might apply for children or groups, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, it's common for historical sites to offer discounts for students, seniors, or group bookings. Some visitors have mentioned being charged a reduced fee of 3 euros during the last two opening hours, suggesting potential off-peak or late-entry discounts.
Your ticket typically grants access to the Turaida Castle itself, including the tower, the small museum showcasing the castle's reconstruction, and the surrounding park areas. Guided tours might be an additional cost or included, depending on the package.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Turaida Museum Reserve website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, especially if you plan to visit during off-peak seasons or holidays.
While some visitors purchased tickets on-site, it's always a good idea to check the official Turaida Museum Reserve website to see if online booking is available. This can sometimes save time, especially during peak visiting periods.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Turaida Castle offers a rich experience with its fascinating medieval castle, a museum detailing its history and reconstruction, and the beautiful sculpture park. The highlight for many is climbing the castle tower for stunning views of the Gauja River and surrounding landscape.
Yes, Turaida Castle can be a great experience for families. Children can enjoy exploring the castle grounds, climbing the tower, and discovering the sculptures in the park. The historical narratives, like the story of Rosa of Turaida, can also be engaging.
A visit to Turaida Castle can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interest. This allows time to explore the castle, climb the tower, wander through the sculpture park, and perhaps enjoy a guided tour.
Guided tours are available and highly recommended by visitors. They provide in-depth historical context and stories, such as the tale of Rosa de Turaida, enhancing the overall understanding and appreciation of the site.
The story of Rosa of Turaida is a central legend associated with the castle. It's a tale of love and tragedy that is often shared by guides and featured in the museum, adding a romantic and poignant layer to the castle's history.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle tower offers incredible panoramic shots of the Gauja River and the surrounding landscape. The autumn season provides a stunning backdrop of colorful foliage. Don't forget to capture the unique sculptures in the park and the castle's architecture itself.
Drone photography is popular at Turaida Castle, with many aerial shots showcasing its beauty. However, always check local regulations and any specific rules posted at the site regarding drone usage to ensure compliance.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for photography, especially for capturing the castle's architecture and the surrounding nature. However, the vibrant colors of autumn are also a major draw during the day.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed within Turaida Castle and its grounds. However, commercial photography or the use of tripods might require special permission. It's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both the castle's architecture and the wider landscape views from the tower. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the sculpture park, and a telephoto lens might be helpful for details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legend of Turaida Castle
The most enduring legend associated with Turaida is that of Rosa of Turaida. This tale, often recounted by guides, tells of a young woman who was tragically killed by a Polish soldier in the 17th century. Her story has become a symbol of love and sacrifice, deeply woven into the fabric of the castle's lore. The museum within the reserve often features exhibits that delve into these historical periods and the captivating legends.
Visiting Turaida Castle offers an immersive experience into Latvia's past. From the imposing stone walls to the stories whispered through its history, the site provides a tangible connection to medieval times. The ongoing preservation and reconstruction efforts ensure that visitors can appreciate its grandeur and understand its significance in Latvian culture and history.
Exploring the Turaida Museum Reserve
A significant draw within the reserve is the sculpture park, which features a collection of artworks that complement the natural landscape. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a blend of art, nature, and tranquility. Visitors often praise its well-maintained condition and the unique artistic expressions found throughout. The reserve also hosts various events, including folk song performances, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the visit.
Navigating the reserve is straightforward, with clear pathways and signage. The combination of historical architecture, artistic installations, and the picturesque setting along the Gauja River makes the Turaida Museum Reserve a comprehensive destination. It’s a place where history, art, and nature converge, offering a memorable experience for anyone interested in Latvian heritage.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit