Europe
Is Latvia safe?
L1Exercise normal precautions
Is Latvia safe?
Safe with normal care. Visitors mainly face pickpockets and Old Riga bar scams; violent crime is rare outside late-night drunken fights.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2026-03-31.
- Homicide rate: 2.5 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 8.1 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 110 · Ambulance 113 · Fire 112 · All emergencies 112.
- Solo women: Generally safe for solo women; be wary of strangers steering you to particular bars in Old Riga.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Pickpockets in Old Riga and at the Central Market
- Drunken crowds and stag parties late at night
- Icy pavements and falling icicles in winter
Common scams
- Friendly strangers lure visitors to Old Riga bars with huge bills
- Unmarked street taxis overcharge; use Bolt
Laws visitors break by accident
- Drinking alcohol in public places is banned and fined.
- Headlights must be on at all times when driving.
- Pedestrians need a reflector on unlit roads after dark.
Safety by place in Latvia
Quick answers
Is Latvia safe for tourists?
Safe with normal care. Visitors mainly face pickpockets and Old Riga bar scams; violent crime is rare outside late-night drunken fights.
Is Latvia safe for solo female travelers?
Generally safe for solo women; be wary of strangers steering you to particular bars in Old Riga.
What is the emergency number in Latvia?
Police 110 · Ambulance 113 · Fire 112 · All emergencies 112.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- PMLP: long-stay visa for remote work
- PMLP: visa state fees
- EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
- Speedtest Global Index, Aug 2026
- Bolt in Rīga
- Vivi
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.