Cesis tours

Population: 17 170 (2016)

Area: 19 km2

Density: 890/km2

Postal code: LV-4101

Area code: (+371) 41

Rank in country: 13th in Latvia

Cesis Medieval Castle built around 1214 by the Knights of the Livonian Ordin. It was an important strategic place of that time – here for about three centuries was the residence of the Livonian Order Master. The Cesis Castle reminds of the sad historical event in which during the Livonian War, attacking by enemies, about 300 people from different settlements came to hide but decide to die, unwilling to give up Russian Tsar Ivan the Terrible. They closed in the castle tower, set fire to the gunpowder and blown up.

St. John Church is one of the oldest medieval architectural monuments in Latvia and the largest medieval basilica outside Riga city. The famous visited church was built in the 13th century. St. John basilica consists of three parts, and in its western part is a massive 65 meters high bell tower with a 15 meter Gothic style peak. In the church it is not a daily Mass, but also organ concerts, the most famous being from them is the annual international organ festival. For every tourist it is worth visiting this unique and special place, without a doubt – one of the top 5 places in Cesis.

Cesis History and Art Museum is good place to go when you are visiting Cesis. It is the unique place, where you can see a historical material collection of Latvian flag. Also, be sure to visit the History and Interiors exposition at this museum, take a look at the amazing city of Cesi from the castle tower. And, of course, take part in various thematic and interactive programs in Cesis History and Art Museum. Visit this tourist recommended place and remember all the important events of history in Cesis.

Victory Monument which was built to commemorate the victims of Latvian and Estonian soldiers who fought for Latvia freedom. The first version of the monument was built in 1924. The monument was demolished in 1952 and in its place constructed a statue of Lenin. In 1990 the statue of Soviet government was destroyed and in 1998 the Latvian Victory Monument was restored. This local people recommended place reminds us how much was necessary to fight for a free nation and let us to enjoy at what we have now.

Cesis Old Town is a place that does not overcome any tourist. The Old Town stone road map is still survived from the Middle Ages, also, the old buildings with the red roofs, closed corners and renovated houses are preserved. As in many old towns, it is also worth to visit Cesis Old Town, due to the amazing and unique architecture, ancient streets and places that tells the city history. Also, in Cesis Old Town you can see one of the 4 former city gate remains.

Vinetas un Allas Karumlade this is the top place where you can find low prices and delicious food. This is a cafe and confectionery house, where you can enjoy a cup of tea with your favorite desserts. “Cesis mixed cookies” is the most popular product, which can be a great souvenir or a present. Visit and taste the unique flavours.

Cafe 2 locals is one of the best top place to eat in Cesis, which is favorite place not only for tourists but for the locals as well. In this cafe you will find locally grown food in Latvia, which shows how modern and quality is the traditional cuisine. Each season the menu is changed to allow visitors to taste different flavours, according to the seasons.

“Hotel Cesis” Restaurant is located in the center of the city, which is next to the most famous city castle and concert hall. In this restaurant you can choose from a wide menu of wine and enjoy the amazing food flavours in a cozy atmosphere. This is a great place to spend the evening while visiting Cesis city.

Cafe “Aroma” is the oldest and one of the recommended places to eat. The cafe has been opened for 20 years and is located in the town center. You can enjoy your food through the outdoor terrace or cafe windows and watch the main city center locations. There are many famous visited places and a wonderful Cesis Old Town next to this cafe.

Pizzeria “Studio Pizza” is one of the top place to eat in Cesis. Here you can taste the delicious pizza and have wonderful time with your friends or family. You can choose from 23 different pizzas and various types of salads and snacks. Here you are always welcome in a friendly and pleasant stuff.

Camel Park “Raksi” is the one of the best things to do, when you are visiting Cesis. The Camel park offers visitors to admire the beauty of camels, llamas, alpacas and guanacos. While visiting the park you will be able not only to see the animals, but also feed them with special food, stroke them. Also, you can go on a trip and entrust your bag to the llamas.

Must to visit the Cesis Concert Hall which was built at that time when Cesis was declared the Capital of Culture in Vidzeme. In these hall is an acoustic concert hall with 800 seats, a chamber hall, an organ auditorium, an exhibition hall and the cinema. The Cesis Concert Hall shows the best musicians, professional actors, well-known films and art exhibitions.

Admire unique products in the Ancient Jewellery Smithy where Daumants Kalnins, a master of ancient jewellery, shares his research and experimentation experience at his archeological workshop “Ancient Jewellery Smithy”. This is one of the places you must to visit in Cesis, where the master has set the goal to show ancient jewellery, that reflects the cultural heritage of the Latvian nation.

Go to the Araisi Archaeological Park made up of Latgalian village from the 19th-20th centuries, numerous ruins of the medieval castle and the historical island with the reconstructed dwelling houses. In this park you can find countless unique monuments and even a windmill, where you can see how the flour is made and to visit events on the territory of museum.

Experience the adventure in the Ozolkalns which is one of the best places for active people. You can choose three obstacle routes here – childish, physically heavier or adventure. In winter, the Ozolkalns becomes a ski place, which is proud of its longest ski trails throughout Latvia. It is the favorite place to visit for the whole family, which will find entertainment here all the time of the year.

Cesis visitors always find activities for the whole family at any time of the year. Do not forget to visit the most important and famous antique places and museums, where you will have fun and get some useful knowledge.

In restaurant menu you can find traditional Latvian dishes, snacks or international cuisine desserts. Tips are not required, but it is normal to leave 5-10% of the bill.