Jūrmala is the easiest day trip from Riga: a long string of resort towns on a sandy peninsula between the Gulf of Riga and the Lielupe river, reached by commuter train in 25–35 minutes. The beach is wide and backed by wooden villa architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Popular year-round but busiest in summer.
Sigulda (about an hour by train) is the gateway to the Gauja National Park, Latvia's most scenic region: a river valley of sandstone cliffs, medieval castle ruins, and forest. Good for hiking and cycling. The castle ruins of Turaida and Sigulda are the main sights; in winter the valley hosts a bobsleigh track open to visitors.
