Plizio Visual Lab

Sigulda New Castle

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

castle

Weather…

Sigulda New Castle was built between 1878 and 1881 as a manor house for the Kropotkin family in the Neo-Gothic style. It is situated on the edge of the Gauja River valley, sharing the grounds with the ruins of a medieval castle. In the 1930s, the building was acquired by the Latvian Press Society and underwent a significant interior renovation led by architect Eižens Laube, who introduced elements of National Romanticism. These interiors, characterized by intricate wood carvings and decorative motifs, are now regarded as peak examples of Latvian craftsmanship from that era. During the Soviet period, the castle functioned as an upscale sanatorium, which helped preserve its architectural integrity. Following a comprehensive restoration completed in 2021, the castle was reopened to the public as a cultural center. Today, it houses creative workshops for local artisans and serves as a venue for art exhibits and grand events, celebrating the aristocratic and national history of the region.

Location: Latvia
Top sights: Complex of Sigulda New Castle · Viktora vēstules · Sigulda Castle
Nearby: Vangaži (18 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-6	-6	-2	5	11	15	18	17	12	6	1	-3
Rain mm	61	50	48	51	59	84	92	87	62	82	77	64

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

Sigulda New Castle is a museum and can be visited for an entrance fee. The interior includes several exhibition rooms, while the exterior park is free.

🕒

Typical hours

The museum typically opens daily 10:00-18:00, but with seasonal variations. Check the official website for exact hours.

📷

Photography

Photography inside the museum is usually allowed, but without flash. In the park and from outside, you can freely capture the neo-Gothic building.

⏱️

Time needed

Allow about 1-1.5 hours for the museum visit and a park stroll. For the entire complex including outdoor areas, budget 2 hours.

➕

Combine with

Sigulda is known for its castles; combine the visit with nearby Turaida Castle or Sigulda Medieval Castle. The Gauja National Park is also worth exploring.

🧭

Getting there

The castle is walkable from Sigulda town center; the train station is about 15 minutes away. By car, follow signs to the castle.

💡

Insider tip

Buy a combo ticket for multiple castles in Sigulda, often cheaper. Visit the castle in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.

Geography

Coordinates

57.16300, 24.85160

Facts

Built from 1878 to 1881 for the Kropotkin family
The original design was by architect Jānis Baumanis
Interior remodeled in National Romanticism style in 1937
Owned by the Latvian Press Society during the 1930s
Used as a high-end sanatorium during the Soviet era
A major restoration project was completed in 2021

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sigulda Tourism Hub1 km · SExplore →

Gauja Nature Trail1 km · WExplore →

Līgatne14 km · NEExplore →

Vangaži18 km · WExplore →

Āraiši28 km · EExplore →

Saulkrasti28 km · NWExplore →

Cēsis Brewery30 km · NEExplore →

Garkalne Forest Nature Park31 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Sigulda New Castle (10)

Complex of Sigulda New Castle

Castle complex in Sigulda, consisting of the New Castle and outbuildings.

Viktora vēstules

Sculpture in Sigulda commemorating Viktor's love letters.

Sigulda Castle

Manor house in Sigulda, built in the 19th century in Neo-Gothic style.

Zērglis

Viewpoint in Sigulda overlooking the Gauja River valley.

Siguldas viduslaiku pils🏰 castle

Castle ruins in Sigulda, built in the 13th century, part of the medieval defense system.

Krusta kalna pilskalns

Archaeological site in Sigulda, an ancient hillfort.

Ziediņkalns

Viewpoint in Sigulda offering a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Mīlas Beka

Viewpoint in Sigulda known for its romantic scenery.

Gaujas plostnieku stāsts🏛 museum

Museum in Sigulda telling the story of raftsmen on the Gauja River.

Sigulda beach

Beach on the Gauja River in Sigulda, suitable for swimming and relaxation.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the Sigulda New Castle built?

The current Neo-Gothic building was constructed between 1878 and 1881 for the Kropotkin family.

What is located in the castle today?

It houses the Sigulda City Council, as well as creative workshops and exhibition spaces.

Can you climb the castle tower?

Yes, the tower provides an excellent panoramic view of the Gauja Valley.

Is there a combined ticket with the Old Castle?

Separate tickets are often sold, but both are located right next to each other in the castle park.

Is the castle grounds accessible?

The park is easily accessible, while inside the castle there are some limitations for wheelchair users.

Sigulda New Castle: where is it located?

Sigulda New Castle is located in Latvia.

Sigulda New Castle: what is there to see?

Highlights include Complex of Sigulda New Castle, Viktora vēstules, Sigulda Castle.

Sigulda New Castle: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Sigulda New Castle: why is it worth visiting?

Sigulda New Castle was built between 1878 and 1881 as a manor house for the Kropotkin family in the Neo-Gothic style.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →