Location: Cesis
Top Things to do in Cesis
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What to do and see in Cesis, Latvia: The Best Places and Tips
Cēsis (Latvian pronunciation: [tseːsis] ( listen)), (German: Wenden, Livonian: Venden, Estonian: Võnnu, Polish: Kieś) is a town in Latvia located in the northern part of the Central Vidzeme Upland. Cēsis is on the Gauja River valley, and is built on a series of ridges above the river overlooking the woods below. Cēsis was one of the candidate cities for the title of European Capital of Culture 2014 (Riga was the Latvian city that won the title).
Restaurants in Cesis
1. Cesis Medieval Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 325 reviews
Reviewed By Bruce M - Sydney, Australia
The old and new Cesis Castles are worth a visit coupled with some other great sites in the surround area ( turaida castle, krimulda manor and hiking trail loop, secret nuclear bunkers at Pension, Birini manor, ligatne nature park and animal reserve) which will take much more than a day.
The old castle highlights were the climb up the rebuilt round tower which provides spectacular views over Cesis.
The new castle has a museum exhibit which suffers somewhat by the lack of a comprehensive English language sinage, but the living rooms and views from the top of the new tower are worth the climb
2. St. John’s Church
Overall Ratings
4 based on 73 reviews
Reviewed By DeanMurphy2020 - Orlando, Florida
Historic Cēsis Saint John Church is one of Latvia oldest medieval monuments of architecture. Constructed in the early 1200s—at the time Cēsis Castle was constructed—340 years before Shakespeare’s birth. In 1209AD, German crusaders known as Livonian Brothers of the Sword began construction of this castle, that they called Weden, the German name for Cesis. The church was constructed for worship by the crusaders—and invaders. The church is the largest medieval basilica outside Riga. It is 213 feet long by a width half that, dimensions common for the era. A thousand seats are provided. Historic art and monuments are original and are now protected cultural heritage objects. World renowned chorus and organ music is performed here, and is the home for the International Organ Player Festival. Without hordes of tourists cramming into the building like sardines, this church can be appreciated more than those in populated cities. A must-see if in Cēsis.
3. Maiskiy Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 33 reviews
Reviewed By DeanMurphy2020 - Orlando, Florida
Our Overseas Adventure Travel tour group visited the Castle, and later took a walk in the park. For a small town, this is a surprisingly wonderful park. Gravel paths meander around the lake with Fountains, and statues/sculptures without descriptive plaques give it a touch of class. I regret having only a few minutes to explore this serene green space, and later learned that Cesis holds Concerts for locals in the park.
4. Araisi Lake Dwelling Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By JanisLatvia - Latvia
Several archaeological excavations exposed residues of buildings from five different historic periods. Alltogether were found residues of approximately 45 wooden buildings - residential and farm buildings as well as rampart around the perimeter for purpose of defence. The ramparts were fortified with post fences or palisades. The reconstruction is made according to earlier settlement, which is identified as late iron age settlement of native Latgallians. The settlement covered approximately 2000m². In order to protect it, the settlement has been built on low Islands, which were probably artificially flooded so that the buildings were at least some 50m from the shore and similarly fortified hill. It is possible that the settlement was occupied by some 70 to 100 people and is believed it was a small district center. Using archaeological data 14 ancient buildings were rebuilt. Next to this open air museum of iron age dwelling site, there is also Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements' reconstruction.
5. Rozu Square
Overall Ratings
4 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By ChrisKenyon136 - Googong NSW
Okay,there's not a lot to see, apart from the large monument, but this is simply a pretty town square, with interesting old buildings on all sides. There is a water feature,amidst the cobbles, and a cafe.Mainly it is interesting to see what a town/village square looked like more than a hundred years ago - not much has changed. Stand in the centre, and slowly look around through 360 degrees, and you'll get a sense of community that is missing in larger towns and cities.
6. ZINOO Cesis
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
ZINOO cesis is a curiosity and science center for kids, teenagers and families. We offer 200+ scientific exhibits and games. This is one of the best places to visit for families with kids when visiting town of Cesis. We have also shop of creative gifts. In our center you can see the first rocket of the Latvioan space Mission. Free Wifi - wireless internet available. Coffee, tee and soft drinks available for purchase. Our guides are fluent in English. You are warmly welcome!
Reviewed By ikke48 - Riga, Latvia
This educational exhibition is an interactive place where kids (and adults alike) can see and play with various scientific inventions so as to arose their interest in science; it is not huge but has many interesting applications which everyone can try out. Castle and zinoo are worth a detour.
7. Erglu Cliffs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By 19Ross85 - London, United Kingdom
Ērgļu cliffs are one of the most significant tourism objects in the Gauja National Park, well-equipped for examination (sightseeing platforms, trails stairs). Majestic view that stretches wide across Gauja opens up from the sightseeing place above the cliffs.
8. Ancient Jewellery Smithy
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By DeanMurphy2020 - Orlando, Florida
Just outside Cēsis Medieval Castle is the silversmith’s shop, where jewelry is made with tools similar to those of 800 years before. Art in motion☺ It’s an education to see intricate jewelry made, especially knowing that even the tools are handmade. Young people can especially benefit from learning how objects were made in times long gone.
9. Raksi Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8 reviews
Reviewed By sir_meeshoo - Gdynia, Poland
Plenty of lamas walking everywhere, rabbits, goats, donkeys, camels (that felt out of place) - all within reach. Children simply loved that. Arrive no later that 3 pm, animals need to rest.
10. Zagarkalns
Overall Ratings
4 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By 11JimD - Dublin, Ireland
If you're a decent skier or boarder, don't waste your time here unless you are in Cecis for another reason. I'm an ex ski teacher and spent 2 hours and quite enjoyed the experience which cost buttons! Imagine it as a local dry ski slope with snow or a good snow dome! 3 drag lifts and a travelator for beginners. There was snow before we arrived and conditions were good. The slopes are open till 11pm daily but are limited to around 500m at 15 degrees. Hire equipment cheap as chips - actually, not quite, sausage and chips plus two fizzy waters were only €7! We had half a day with lunch for less than €35 each.
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