Daugavpils lies in southeastern Latvia near the borders with Lithuania and Belarus and is the country’s second-largest city. Set on the banks of the Daugava River, it has a distinctly different character from western Latvia, shaped by its multicultural population and strategic military past. The city feels less visited and more lived-in, offering an authentic insight into Latvia beyond the capital.
The city’s most important landmark is Daugavpils Fortress, a vast 19th-century military complex and the only preserved fortress of its kind in Eastern Europe. Within its walls are museums, galleries and cultural spaces, including the Mark Rothko Art Centre, dedicated to the world-renowned abstract expressionist who was born in the city. Beyond the fortress, Soviet-era architecture, Orthodox churches and quiet streets reflect the region’s diverse heritage.
Daugavpils is also a gateway to the natural landscapes of Latgale, a region known for its lakes, forests and traditional villages. Combining history, art and regional culture, Daugavpils is a rewarding stop for travellers seeking a deeper, less conventional experience of Latvia.