Rezekne is a town in eastern Latvia, often called the "Heart of Latgale" after the historically rich region it anchors. Its position makes it a natural stop for travellers exploring the country's quieter eastern corner, where the landscape and the local character feel distinct from the Baltic coast and the capital.
What to see
- The ruins of Rezekne Castle, the town's most evident link to its past, which visitors can walk around and take in at their own pace.
- Latgalian traditions, which give the town its particular identity. Latgale has its own cultural features, and Rezekne is the place to encounter them in everyday city life.
What kind of visit it makes
Rezekne suits a slower, more unhurried trip. It works well as a base for exploring Latgale, or as a stop on a longer journey through eastern Latvia. Because the town serves as a key educational centre, it has a lively, youthful presence alongside its older character.
The town is also an important transport hub, with connections linking Latvia to Russia and Belarus. For travellers, this practical role means it is easy to reach and to pass through, and it gives the place a sense of being a crossroads between countries.
If you are drawn to regional culture, castle ruins and a less-travelled part of Europe, Rezekne rewards a visit. Plan to spend time walking the town and its surroundings rather than rushing through.