Latvia Geography: Location, Area, Borders & Climate
Latvia is a country in Northern Europe, Europe, covering a total area of 64,589 km². It has a coastline of 498 km along the Northern Europe coast. Latvia shares land borders with 4 countries.
📐 Geographic Statistics
Where is Latvia Located?
Latvia is situated in Northern Europe, within the broader continent of Europe. The country has a coastline of 498 km, providing access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism. This geographic feature has been central to Latvia's historical development and economic activity. The capital, Riga, serves as the country's administrative and economic centre. Within the Northern Europe region, Latvia sits alongside countries including Iceland, Estonia, Lithuania.
Size and Area of Latvia
Latvia covers a total area of 64,589 km², making it one of the smaller nations in the world. With a population of 1.8M across this territory, the population density works out at 28/km²: a moderate distribution of people across the country.
Climate of Latvia
The climate of Latvia is temperate, cold winters, mild summers. The most favourable time to visit is May–September, when conditions are most comfortable for travel and outdoor activities. Climate can vary considerably across different parts of the country; coastal areas, highlands and inland plains often experience quite different conditions. Travellers should research the specific region they plan to visit to plan appropriate clothing and activities.
🗺️ Countries Bordering Latvia
Latvia shares land borders with 4 countries: Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, Belarus. This large number of shared borders reflects Latvia's central geographical position within Northern Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Latvia's Geography
Where is Latvia located?
Latvia is located in Northern Europe, Europe. The capital city is Riga.
How large is Latvia?
Latvia has a total area of 64,589 km² with a population density of 28/km².
What countries border Latvia?
Latvia shares land borders with 4 countries: Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, Belarus.
Does Latvia have a coastline?
Yes, Latvia has a coastline of 498 km.
What is the climate of Latvia?
The climate of Latvia is Temperate, cold winters, mild summers. The best time to visit is May–September.
What timezone is Latvia in?
Latvia observes UTC+2/3 timezone.
What continent is Latvia in?
Latvia is in Europe, specifically in the Northern Europe region.
When did Latvia become independent?
Latvia gained independence in 1991.