Cēsis
Cēsis is a STATE in Latvia, Europe.
Cēsis, nestled in the heart of Latvia's Vidzeme region, is a captivating blend of medieval grandeur and pristine natural beauty. The town's crown jewel is the magnificent Cēsis Castle, a 13th-century Livonian Order fortress whose ancient walls and atmospheric ruins transport visitors back in time. Wander through the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets, historic wooden buildings, and the serene St. John's Church. Nature lovers will be enchanted by the surrounding Gauja National Park, Europe's largest protected area, offering breathtaking sandstone cliffs, mystical caves, and dense forests perfect for hiking, cycling, and canoeing along the Gauja River. Cēsis is also a cultural hub, hosting vibrant festivals like the Cēsis Art Festival and the medieval-inspired Cēsis Castle Festival. The town's unique craft beer tradition, with breweries dating back centuries, provides a delightful taste of local heritage. Whether exploring ancient ruins, hiking through lush landscapes, or immersing in rich cultural events, Cēsis offers an unforgettable journey into Latvia's soul.
Best time to visit Cēsis
May to September for pleasant weather (15-25°C), ideal for outdoor activities in Gauja National Park and festivals. July and August are peak tourist months with events like the Cēsis Art Festival. September offers beautiful autumn foliage. Winter (December-February) is cold but magical for Christmas markets and snow activities, though some attractions have limited hours.
October
NowTypical for October
- Weather
- Cool 3 to 9°C
Travel notes
- Crowds
- Low
- Prices
- Low
Fewer tourists, cozy cafes
Know before you go
Getting there
Riga International Airport
International
90 km away
Tallinn Airport
International
230 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
30 Mbps
Mobile data
Excellent
WiFi
Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
Local SIM
Local SIM available at stores from $5
Calling code
+371
Stay safe
Overall
9/10Very safe overall. Scams are rare but watch for overpriced taxis near train station.
Night safety
8/10Very safe overall. Scams are rare but watch for overpriced taxis near train station.
Transport
9/10Scam risk
7/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Currency
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
More facts
Population
17,000
Area
19.27 km²
Government
Municipality with a town council and mayor
Type
Province
Frequently Asked Questions
Also known as: Cėsys, 0026200, Цесис, Венден,Кесь, Цесіс, צסיס, Cēsis, Wenden, Kieś, Võnnu, VNT, Ventograd, Ventopol, Ventspil, Ventspilis, Ventspils, Vindau, Vindava, Wentspils, Windau, bhentaspilasa, fntsbyls, vaintasapilasa, venitisiፒልsi, ventsapilsa, vuentsupirusu, wyntspyls, wynٹspls, wynټspyls, Вентоград, Вентопољ, Вентспил, Вентспилс, فنتسبيلس, وینتسپیلس, وینٹسپلس, وینټسپیلس, वेंट्सपिल्स, ভেন্টস্পিলস, ਵੈਂਟਸਪਿਲਸ, ቬንትስፒልስ, ヴェンツピルス



