Latvia’s enchanting mix of medieval charm, Baltic coastlines, and vibrant culture makes it an exciting destination, where understanding currency and payments ensures a stress-free visit. Whether you’re wandering through Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, exploring the sandy beaches of Jurmala, or discovering Latvia’s lush national parks, this guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Latvia (Euro (EUR)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of Latvia’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
How to pay in Latvia – cash or card?
In Latvia, both cash and card payments are widely accepted. The official currency is the Euro (€).
You can use cash for:
Small Businesses and Local Markets: While many establishments accept cards, some smaller shops and market vendors may prefer cash transactions.
Public Transportation: Certain local transport services might require cash payments.
Tips and Gratuities: Although tipping is not obligatory, offering tips in cash is customary for exceptional service.
You can use card for:
Hotels and Resorts: Major accommodations widely accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Most dining establishments, especially in urban areas, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping centers and supermarkets commonly accept card payments.
Tourist Attractions: Many museums and historic sites offer card payment options for entrance fees.
Tours and Activities: Established tour operators typically accept card payments.
In summary, while card payments are prevalent in Latvia, carrying some cash is advisable for transactions in smaller establishments or situations where card payments may not be feasible.
What’s the best currency to take to Latvia
Euro (EUR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Latvia. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, some rural regions and smaller establishments may prefer cash payments. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry some Euros in cash to avoid inconveniences.
Other currencies, such as US Dollars or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Latvia
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Latvia. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Latvia
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Latvia
If you’re withdrawing money in Latvia from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards. Some of them accept Plus, Cirrus, and American Express cards. Others like JCB, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Latvia
For those who come from European countries, there is no need to exchange money before traveling to Latvia, as the country uses the Euro (EUR). If you already have Euros, you can use them immediately upon arrival.
For others, you can easily use ATMs to get Euros as they are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas, and they accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Plus cards. Withdrawing EUR from ATMs in Latvia is usually more cost-effective than exchanging currency in advance. However, check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
If you need to exchange cash, it’s best to do so at banks or licensed exchange offices in the city, as they offer better rates than airports or hotels. Major foreign currencies such as USD and GBP can be exchanged easily.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. Card payments are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and public transport, but having some cash can be useful for small vendors, markets, or rural areas.
Where to withdraw money in Latvia
You can withdraw money in Latvia at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Latvia are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Swedbank,
- SEB,
- Luminor,
- Rietumu Bank, and
- Citadele.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Latvia.
Where to exchange currency in Latvia
You can exchange currency in Latvia at licensed currency exchange offices and banks branches.
- Currency Exchange Offices: Several licensed exchange bureaus operate in Latvia, particularly in Riga. Notable ones include:
- Eurex: Offers currency exchange services at various locations, including shopping centers. Notable providers include Eurex, Tavex.
- Latvijas Banka Cashier’s Office: The central bank offers currency exchange services, including exchanging euro banknotes and coins for other denominations.
You can find good currency exchanges in Latvia using the ATM Fee Saver app—it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Latvia.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Latvia safe?
Carrying cash in Latvia is generally safe, but standard precautions are advisable. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas, markets, and public transportation hubs, especially in Riga’s Old Town, central market area, and central railway and bus stations. To minimize risks:
- Carry only necessary amounts: Bring only the cash you need for daily expenses.
- Use secure storage: Keep valuables, including passports and large sums of money, in a hotel safe or another secure location.
- Be discreet: Avoid displaying cash and valuable items in public.
- Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Latvia
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
