Tourism professionals confirm a surge of Latvian travelers eager for exploration
Top Summer Travel Destinations for Latvian Residents in 2022
Latvia's travel landscape in 2022 saw a shift in popular destinations, with Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Lithuania emerging as the top choices for summer holidays, according to data from Riga Airport and the Association of Latvian Travel Agents and Operators (ALTA).
Riga Airport's data reveals that Spain was the most sought-after destination for outbound travelers, followed closely by Greece, Turkey, and Lithuania. These countries attracted a significant number of Latvian tourists due to their warm climate, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions.
ALTA's report echoes this trend, highlighting Spain and Greece as favourite summer holiday spots for Latvian residents, with Turkey also popular for its resorts and all-inclusive packages. The Baltic region, including Lithuania, remained a significant travel area, often chosen for shorter trips or city breaks.
Beyond the traditional favourites, there's a growing interest in exploring new destinations. Cruise holidays are becoming increasingly popular among Latvian residents, with Montenegro and Albania emerging as intriguing options.
The United Kingdom, Germany, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Egypt, and Spain continue to be popular countries for Latvian summer travel. Interestingly, people are buying trips three to six months in advance, but there are also attractive last-minute offers in the leisure segment.
The average price of a cruise per night starts at 65 euros per person, including meals, entertainment on board, and a cabin. Air travel is also on the rise, with the Boeing 777 flights from Riga to Antalya being fully booked. Riga Airport currently operates regular charter flights from Riga to Antalya with a Boeing 777, capable of carrying over 500 passengers.
As of May 2023, Riga Airport has served 2.7 million passengers, and by summer 2023, passengers can fly from Riga to 80 destinations. The number of flights at Riga Airport is increasing for the summer season, making it easier for Latvian residents to explore the world.
It's important to note that only licensed travel agencies should be worked with, and cooperation agreements should be signed. airBaltic recommends purchasing airline tickets at least three months in advance, as there are more than 20 different price classes available for a single route.
As the weather gets colder, people head to the Arab Emirates, while Mediterranean routes and Norwegian fjords remain popular, with the midnight sun being a significant draw for the latter. Demand for long-haul travel is growing, including to Argentina and New Zealand, indicating a broadening of travel horizons for Latvian tourists.
Historically, prices are highest in August, when most Southern Europeans are on holiday. Looking at trips in July, late September, or October may result in lower prices. This summer, demand for farther travel is on the rise, suggesting a shift in travel preferences among Latvian residents.
- Despite the growing interest in exploring new destinations like Montenegro and Albania, the United Kingdom, Germany, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Egypt, and Spain continue to be popular countries for Latvian summer travel.
- As the weather gets colder, many Latvian residents consider travel options in the Arab Emirates, a trend that indicates a broadening of travel horizons, including long-haul destinations like Argentina and New Zealand.
