Latvia Safety Tips: What to Know Before You Go

How safe is Latvia?

Latvia is a calm, low-crime country and most visits to Riga, Jurmala or the countryside pass without trouble. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main risks are petty theft, overpriced bars and the occasional taxi or currency scam, all of which are easy to avoid once you know the patterns.

Common scams to watch for

• Bar and nightclub overcharging in Riga Old Town. Friendly local women may invite solo male travelers for a drink, then the bill arrives at hundreds of euros. Avoid bars you were invited into off the street; choose places with clear menus and prices.
• Unmetered or rigged taxis. Use apps like Bolt or Yandex Go instead of hailing on the street. Official taxis show a yellow plate and a posted tariff; agree on app pricing before you ride.
• Currency exchange tricks. Latvia uses the euro, so you rarely need to change money. Avoid kiosks advertising "no commission" with poor rates, especially near the central station.
• Fake charity and petition clipboards near tourist spots, sometimes used to distract for pickpocketing.

Areas to be a little careful

• Riga Old Town (Vecriga) at night, especially around bars on Kalku and Aspazijas, can attract pickpockets and aggressive promoters.
• The central station and bus terminal area gets quieter and rougher late at night.
• Maskavas (Moscow) district is fine by day but feels less polished after dark; stay aware.

Keep bags zipped on crowded trams and at markets like Riga Central Market.

Practical safety habits

• Tap water is safe to drink across Latvia.
• Winters are icy; wear proper footwear as sidewalks get slippery from November to March.
• Cross only at marked crossings; jaywalking is fined and drivers do not always stop.
• Carry a card and some cash; most places take contactless.

Emergency numbers

• 112 is the single emergency number for police, ambulance and fire, with English-speaking operators.
• 110 reaches the police directly.
• 113 is for medical emergencies.
• Pharmacies are marked Aptieka; some in Riga open 24 hours.

Stay connected in Latvia

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so you can use maps, translate signs, call a Bolt and check bookings without hunting for Wi-Fi or paying roaming fees.