# Essential Daugavpils Travel Guide: What to See & Do

**Discover Daugavpils: Latvia’s Multicultural Fortress City**

Daugavpils is Latvia’s second-largest city and the cultural heart of Latgale, a southeastern region known for its distinctive traditions and layered history. Located along a bend in the Daugava River, the city is represented by three enduring symbols: water, a fortress, and a lily. Together, they reflect Daugavpils’ geography, military heritage, and reputation for religious diversity.

## Daugavpils’ Layered History and Culture

Daugavpils’ history dates back to the Middle Ages, when German crusaders established a settlement in the area. Over the centuries, the city came under Russian, German, and Soviet rule. Each period left its mark on the local architecture and cultural landscape, creating the diverse character that defines Daugavpils today.

This combination of influences gives the city a distinctive identity and makes it more than a destination defined by individual attractions. Its history can be seen in its fortifications, religious buildings, public spaces, and enduring Latgalian traditions.

## What to See in Daugavpils

### Daugavpils Fortress

The Daugavpils Fortress is one of the city’s most notable landmarks. This imposing defensive complex recalls Daugavpils’ strategic importance and remains one of the clearest expressions of its military past.

### St Peter’s in Chains Roman Catholic Church

Religious heritage is another important part of Daugavpils’ identity. St Peter’s in Chains Roman Catholic Church is known for its elegant colonnade and Rome-inspired design. The church stands among peaceful landscaped grounds, adding to the site’s calm atmosphere.

### Dubrovin Park

Nearby Dubrovin Park offers a greener and quieter view of local life. Its mature paths, sculptures, and fountain honoring the park’s namesake, former mayor Pavel Dubrovin, make it a notable public space in the city.

## Why Visit Daugavpils?

For travelers deciding what to see in Daugavpils, the city’s appeal lies in its contrasts: the Daugava River alongside historic fortifications, sacred buildings beside public parks, and local Latgalian identity shaped by international influences.

These qualities make Daugavpils one of the most culturally intriguing places to visit in Latvia.

## Walk Daugavpils with Neywo

Neywo turns Daugavpils into a self-guided audio tour. Stories arrive as you reach the place they belong to, and the route reshapes when you wander off it.

## More in Latgale

- [Ludza](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/latgale/ludza.md)
- [Rezekne](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/latgale/rezekne.md)

## Elsewhere in Latvia

- [Bauska](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/semigallia/bauska.md) — Semigallia
- [Jēkabpils](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/semigallia/jekabpils.md) — Semigallia
- [Jelgava](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/semigallia/jelgava.md) — Semigallia
- [Alūksne](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/vidzeme/aluksne.md) — Vidzeme
- [Cēsis](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/vidzeme/cesis.md) — Vidzeme
- [Gulbene](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/vidzeme/gulbene.md) — Vidzeme
- [Sigulda](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/vidzeme/sigulda.md) — Vidzeme
- [Valmiera](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/vidzeme/valmiera.md) — Vidzeme
- [Jūrmala](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/jurmala.md)
- [Riga](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/riga-2.md)
- [Kuldīga](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/courland/kuldiga.md) — Courland
- [Liepāja](https://neywo.com/destinations/latvia/courland/liepaja.md) — Courland

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