Planning a trip to Latvia? Knowing a few basic Latvian phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. While many people in Riga speak English, venturing into smaller towns or rural areas may require some Latvian. Here are the most useful phrases to get you started.

Greetings & basic phrases

• Sveiki! – Hello! (formal)
• Čau! – Hi!/Bye! (informal)
• Kā jums iet? – How are you? (formal)
• Paldies! – Thank you!
• Lūdzu! – Please/You’re welcome.
• Atvainojiet! – Excuse me/Sorry.

Getting Around

• Kur ir…? – Where is…?
  • Kur ir tualete? – Where is the toilet?
  • Kur ir autobusa pietura? – Where is the bus stop?
• Cik tas maksā? – How much does it cost?
• Vai jūs runājat angliski? – Do you speak English?

Dining & shopping

• Es gribētu… – I would like…
  • Es gribētu kafiju. – I would like coffee.
• Vai jums ir ēdienkarte angliski? – Do you have a menu in English?
• Rēķinu, lūdzu! – The bill, please!
• Vai tas ir bezmaksas? – Is this free?

Emergency phrases

• Palīdziet! – Help!
• Es esmu pazudis. – I am lost.
• Vai šeit ir ārsts? – Is there a doctor here?

Bonus: Polite phrases locals love

• Labu apetīti! – Bon appétit!
• Prieks iepazīties! – Nice to meet you!
• Lai jauka diena! – Have a nice day!

Even a simple “Paldies!” (Thank you) can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable. Latvians appreciate when visitors try their language, so don’t be shy – give it a try!

Vai jūs esat gatavs? – Are you ready? Enjoy your Latvian adventure!