Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Daugavpils. Daugavpils Intrenational Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at DGP:
First, verify that you can enter Latvia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 40 minutes into Daugavpils, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Daugavpils on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Daugavpils:
Start with Daugavpils Fortress. You can see the main features in a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside DGP — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- DGP Business Lounge
- Travel Retail Duty-Free
Getting from DGP to Daugavpils
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Where to Eat
In Daugavpils
If you make it into town, Art HUB (Vesma) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Platery.
Inside DGP
If you’re staying in the terminal, Skyline Cafe & Bar is your main option. Local Bites Deli works too if you want something quick.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Daugavpils layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$13 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$30 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Daugavpils, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DGP, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Daugavpils itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Latvia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Bag Storage Near DGP
Dedicated luggage storage at DGP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Daugavpils’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at DGP include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Latvia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Daugavpils with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Daugavpils may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.