Discover Liepāja – A summer escape with a cultural edge

Nestled between Lake Liepāja and the Baltic Sea, the vibrant city of Liepāja is fast becoming one of Eastern Europe’s most inspiring summer destinations. Already beloved for its long, white-sand beaches, rich musical traditions, and striking architecture, the city is taking things up a notch as it prepares to be the European Capital of Culture in 2027.

When deciding to grant Liepāja the status of European Capital of Culture in 2027, the European Union’s evaluation jury highlighted the city’s compelling vision for the future. “The concept of the Liepāja bid speaks into a new reality in Europe where cultural competences must play an even bigger role in seeking solutions to societal ‘rest and unrest’,” the jury noted. This commitment to culture as a force for community and renewal is what makes a visit to Liepāja not just enjoyable, but inspiring.

In summer, the city and its surroundings offer a perfect mix of nature, relaxation and adventure. You may spend a day basking on the famously pristine Blue Flag beach or stroll through the city’s charming streets lined with beautifully restored Art Nouveau and wooden buildings. Music lovers, too, will find themselves at home in the city known as the birthplace of Latvian rock music, with live performances filling the air with music during the long, light evenings.

For those seeking something out of the ordinary, Karosta, the city’s former secret military town, offers fascinating experiences, with its dramatic sea fortifications and haunting Northern Forts.

As Liepāja prepares for its year as the European Capital of Culture, visitors can already feel the creative energy building in its galleries, festivals, and public spaces. The city is home to Latvia’s oldest professional theatre, the country’s only professional symphony orchestra outside of Riga, a puppet theatre, several folklore groups, and – not least – a seemingly endless number of choirs.

Whether you come for the beach, the music, the history, or the emerging cultural scene, Liepāja promises a refreshing break – and a glimpse into the future of European culture.

Discover Liepāja – a summer escape with a cultural edge

Web: www.liepaja.travel/en