Cēsis - Cesis

Cēsis – A Town That Draws You In!

A place where history and the present blend in perfect harmony. In a single moment, you can find yourself at a medieval feast or immersed in untouched nature – and the next, exploring the mysteries of the cosmos or meeting a camel. This is the birthplace of the Latvian flag, where people live with red-white-red in their hearts.

Cēsis means celebration! From contemporary art exhibitions during the Cēsis Art Festival, to meaningful conversations at the LAMPA conversation festival, and open-air summer concerts in the Castle Park – the town pulses with creativity and community. One of Latvia’s most beautiful small towns, Cēsis captivates in summer with the pristine nature of the Gauja Valley, the breath of medieval history, and a thriving modern art scene. In winter, it invites you to the largest ski resort in the Baltics, offering the most diverse trails and longest slopes in the region.

Līgatne Pārgauja Priekuļi Vecpiebalga Jaunpiebalga Amata Cēsis

Interesting facts

3rd
oldest town in Latvia
16+
movies that showcase Cēsis
2
Michelin‑recognized restaurants
3 km
to the nearest nature trail

Cēsis has a charm all its own – one that makes you want to return again and again. It’s not only one of Latvia’s oldest towns, but also among the most deeply rooted in Latvian spirit.

Rich in stunning natural scenery and historical landmarks, Cēsis embodies an intriguing blend of ancient soul and contemporary confidence. Both the town and the wider Cēsis region are among the top destinations for travelers in Vidzeme. In every season, Cēsis draws visitors who appreciate cultural heritage, natural beauty, and the peaceful rhythm of small-town life.

Cēsis Medieval Castle
The best-preserved castle ruins in Latvia, dating back to the 13th century.
Cēsis Medieval Castle
Pils laukums 9, Cēsis
Pils laukums 9, Cēsis
Cēsis History and Art Museum
The museum’s pride – the first known red-white-red national flag, embroidered in 1916.
Cēsis Museum
Pils laukums 9, Cēsis
Pils laukums 9, Cēsis
Cēsis Old City
The cobbled streets of Cēsis Old Town have retained their medieval layout to this day.
Learn more
Cēsis
Cēsis
Space Education Centre
An interactive and engaging exhibition for visitors of all ages.
Space Education Centre
Cīrulīšu iela 63, Cēsis
Cīrulīšu iela 63, Cēsis
Nature within arm’s reach
Just a short three-kilometre walk from the town centre reveals stunning sandstone cliffs, inviting forest trails, and the majestic Gauja River.
Learn more
Ērgļu klintis
Ērgļu klintis

What to visit

See all