Latvia is located in northeastern Europe, in the Baltic region, where it sits on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea and shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Covering an area of 64,559 km², the country lies in both the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres, with its capital, Riga, positioned roughly midway along its Baltic coastline.
Where Exactly Is Latvia on the Map?
Latvia is the middle of the three Baltic states, tucked between Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. It occupies a position around 57° North latitude and 25° East longitude, placing it firmly in Northern Europe. To the west, the Baltic Sea and the deep inlet known as the Gulf of Riga shape much of the country's roughly 500-kilometre coastline.
If you are scanning a map of Europe, look for the cluster of three small nations along the Baltic Sea's eastern edge, north of Poland and west of Russia. Latvia is the one in the centre. Its location has long made it a crossroads between Western Europe, Scandinavia, and the vast Eurasian landmass to the east, a fact that has shaped its trade, culture, and turbulent history.
Which Countries Border Latvia?
Latvia shares land borders with four countries, and a maritime frontier with the Baltic Sea. Each neighbour has left its mark on Latvian language, commerce, and politics over the centuries.
- Estonia — to the north, a fellow Baltic state and close cultural partner within the European Union.
- Lithuania — to the south, the third Baltic nation and Latvia's most linguistically related neighbour.
- Russia — to the east, sharing one of Latvia's most strategically significant borders.
- Belarus — to the southeast, marking Latvia's frontier with the wider Eurasian interior.
Because it borders the European Union's eastern edge with both Russia and Belarus, Latvia plays an outsized role in regional security and is a member of both the EU and NATO.
The Landscape and Geography of Latvia
Latvia is a predominantly low-lying country. Much of the terrain is gentle, glaciated plains covered with forests, lakes, and rivers, with no truly mountainous regions. Its highest point, Gaiziņkalns, reaches only about 312 metres above sea level. Forests blanket roughly half of the national territory, making Latvia one of the greenest countries in Europe.
The Daugava River is the country's most important waterway, flowing from Russia and Belarus across Latvia before emptying into the Gulf of Riga. The capital, Riga, grew up at this river's mouth and remains the largest city in the entire Baltic region. The country's flat, fertile lowlands support agriculture, while its extensive coastline and sandy beaches draw summer visitors. You can explore more of the country's regions and heritage in our latvia country guide.
Latvia's Place in Europe and the World
With a population of roughly 1.8 million people, Latvia is one of the less densely populated countries in the European Union. The official language is Latvian, one of only two surviving Baltic languages, and the dominant religious traditions are Lutheran and Roman Catholic Christianity, reflecting influences from both Northern and Central Europe.
Latvia is a parliamentary republic and has used the Euro as its currency since 2014, having joined the eurozone after gaining EU membership in 2004. In terms of size, the country is comparable to Croatia or Costa Rica, and slightly larger than the U.S. states of West Virginia and Lithuania. Its position on the Baltic Sea has historically made Riga a vital trading port, linking Hanseatic merchants, Russian empires, and modern European supply chains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Latvia in Eastern or Northern Europe?
Latvia is most commonly classified as part of Northern Europe, specifically the Baltic region, by the United Nations. However, because of its history and eastern position, it is sometimes informally grouped with Eastern Europe. Geographically, it sits in the northeastern corner of the continent.
Is Latvia part of Russia or the European Union?
Latvia is an independent country and a full member of the European Union, which it joined in 2004. It was once part of the Soviet Union but regained its independence in 1991. It is not part of Russia, though the two nations share a border.
What is the capital of Latvia and where is it?
The capital of Latvia is Riga, located on the Gulf of Riga where the Daugava River meets the Baltic Sea. It is the largest city in the Baltic states and the country's main political, cultural, and economic centre, famous for its UNESCO-listed Old Town.
What sea borders Latvia?
Latvia borders the Baltic Sea along its western edge, including the large inlet known as the Gulf of Riga. This coastline stretches for roughly 500 kilometres and has shaped Latvia's trade and maritime heritage for centuries.