Overview
Valka is a uniquely odd destination: a 6,000-person Latvian town whose twin, Valga, sits directly across the border in Estonia. The two share a slogan 'One Town, Two Countries' and can be crossed on foot in minutes.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Transit Hub
Before you go
Border
Since 2007, all border crossing points and fences between Latvia and Estonia have been removed as both countries joined Schengen. Crossing is casual and foot traffic between the two towns is common.
Connectivity
Area code is 47. Public library at 22 Rīgas Street has internet access. EU roaming applies for Estonian networks.
Food
Valka's dining options are extremely limited with only two listed bistros in the center. For better food variety, cross to the Estonian side of Valga, a short walk away.
Transport
Buses run 5x daily to Riga (3½ hr), 7x daily to Valmiera (1-1½ hr), and 5x daily to Smiltene (1 hr). The bus station is near the Estonian border at Rīgas iela 7. The train station is actually in Valga, Estonia.