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Valka – is one of the six cities in the world sitting on the border between states. The Latvian side is the city of Valka, whereas the Estonian one bears the similarly sounding name of Valga. The two towns are closely linked to the extent they share a common newspaper.
Valka is famous as the place where the first song festival was held on 21 May 1868. Moreover, it played a significant part in the history of Latvia since it was in this town that the decision to declare independence was taken.
In the summer months visitors can admire an astounding view of the city from the tower of Valka-Lugazi Evangelic Lutheran Church of St. Katrina.
Smiltene – is a town in the western part of Latvia with the Riga-Pskov highway running next to it. Its beautiful natural sights make this town particularly attractive to tourists. The sights to visit include Telega, Middle Lake and the old park. Multiple skiing tracks are arranged around Smiltene in the winter.
How to get there
Electric trains run from Riga to Valka (Lugazi station) three times a day. The timetable is available on the Latvian Railways website.
However, it is much more comfortable to take a bus from Riga. Check out the timetable on the Bus Station website.
There is no railway track in Smiltene so the only way of reaching the town is by taking a bus from Riga. Consult the timetable on the Bus Station website.
Tourist Information
Tourism Information Centers
Valka - Beverinas 3, Tel: +371 470 75 22, Fax: +371 470 75 27
Smiltene - Darza 3, Tel/Fax: +371 470 75 75, tourism@smiltene.lv
