What to see in Jūrmala: the architecture and history of the resort

Jūrmala — An Amazing Place

Jūrmala is a unique spot that is definitely worth a visit. Before you set out to explore it, you should figure out what exactly you can see in this wonderful place.

Historical Context

The city, which became a resort twice, made history in 1920, when several tiny villages were united, and in 1946, when it became part of Riga. It is encouraging to note that it was only in 1959 that Jurmala regained the status of a city.

Modern Jūrmala

Modern Jūrmala is a stretched strip extending 35 kilometers along the magnificent Gulf of Riga. The city's boundaries are defined by the Lielupe River, and a railway line divides it into two parts.

The construction mainly consists of two- and three-story buildings, including modern cottages and multi-story houses, surrounded by ancient wooden structures that reflect a variety of architectural styles — from classicism to neo-Gothic.

Yuras Street and Architectural Landmarks

If you stop on Juras Street, located near the beach and dunes, you can notice a unique mix of architectural styles characteristic of Jurmala. No less interesting are the preserved buildings of constructivism on Bulduru Avenue, as well as bright examples of architecture on Dzintaru Avenue.

• A unique wooden neo-Gothic castle that was previously used as a country cottage by Kristaps Morbergs.
• A classic villa with columns and an elegant staircase.

Main Pedestrian Street

The main pedestrian street of Jomas, known for its active atmosphere and historical significance, was once inhabited exclusively by wooden houses. However, due to wars, frequent fires and changes, its appearance has undergone significant changes.

Today, the cozy atmosphere is still felt, but among the wooden structures, you can also see stone buildings that give the street a unique charm.

The history of Jūrmala

The historical roots of Jūrmala go back to small fishing villages where locals made a living by catching fish. With the beginning of the 19th century, Russian officers started to arrive on the seaside, stopping here on their way home after military campaigns, and soon the resort began to attract other travelers.

Gradually, the residents noticed that providing accommodation for tourists could yield a more stable income than fishing. At first, they welcomed guests into their homes, and later they began to build hotels and resorts.

Period of Resort Prosperity

The heyday of resort life occurred from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, leaving behind many beautiful buildings that can still be seen today. Jūrmala is divided into twelve unique districts, each with its own architectural individuality.

In particular, the Dzintari area is home to many beautifully designed private houses that were built by the Russian aristocracy in the 1870s, reflecting the spirit of national romanticism.

Majori - A Part of Architectural Heritage

Majori also serves as a vivid example of the architectural heritage of Jūrmala, inviting tourists to look into the past and enjoy the picturesque nature of the region.

Jurmala— it's not just a place to relax — it's a living history that combines the past and modern realities, where everyone can find something special for themselves.

Architectural ensembles of Jūrmala

In Jūrmala, you can find many unique architectural complexes, especially in the area between Jūras and Jomas streets. The historic Emīlija Račena bathhouse and the Bulduri cottage district were among the first locations where summer houses began to develop. By 1875, around four hundred houses had already been built here.

Development of suburban areas

Another country for rich city dwellers was the Prijedajne district, where dacha areas began to form at the beginning of the 20th century. During the Soviet era, apartment buildings were actively built here.

Since 1910, summer houses began to appear in areas such as Lielupe, Pumpuri, and Melluši. While Sloka and Kauguri remained industrial territories for a long time, typical Soviet "boxes" were later built there. In Dubulti, especially in the area between Slokas and Baznicas streets, one can also observe many multi-story buildings.

Golden Mile

In the first two rows from the sea in Bulduri, Dzintari, and Majori (up to the railway), there are houses and villas on the so-called "golden mile," where prices start at one million euros. These places are the most interesting for real estate investments. Here, old wooden buildings are well-preserved, and new elite projects are usually developed in these areas.

Housing prices

The cost per square meter in elite new buildings in Jurmala ranges from 3,500 to 7,000 euros, while on the secondary market prices can be less than 5,000 euros per square meter. Near the famous sandy beaches of Jurmala, housing prices are slightly lower, especially when it comes to locations near or behind the railway, as well as in neighboring areas such as Vaivari and Asari.

• Kapu Millionaires Street, where houses originally had high values.
• In Pumpuri and Melluzhi, specifically in the area located behind the railway, it is possible to purchase a small house for an amount ranging from 200,000 to 400,000 euros.
• Standard apartments built according to typical designs are valued significantly lower.

In areas such as Asari, Kauguri, Sloka, Melluži, or Dubulti, the average cost per square meter in 2020 ranged from 600 to 900 euros, which is comparable to prices in some neighborhoods of Riga.

Architectural masterpieces

Classic wooden summer housesin Jurmala attract many investors and potential buyers. A significant part of these architectural masterpieces was built back in the early 20th century, when dacha owners actively started to build their own houses.

This became possible during the land reform of the 19th century, when they gained the right to private ownership of plots that were previously state-owned. Interestingly, well-known architects of the time were actively involved in new projects, which contributed to the formation of the unique character of Jūrmala.

Here, one can observe a harmonious blend of antiquity and modernity, which attracts the interest of tourists and buyers from all over the world.

The architectural diversity of Jūrmala

In recent years, Jūrmala has been experiencing a period of intense construction development, which has led to the emergence of numerous buildings designed in various architectural styles. Here, you can find styles such as Jugendstil, eclecticism, classicism, historicism, as well as national romanticism and even neo-Gothic.

Decorative elements, including fine wood carvings, rich moldings, stained glass windows, weathervanes, wings and turrets, enriched the architectural landscape of the city, blending in with the surrounding nature with its pine trees, water bodies and dunes.

Historical buildings of Jūrmala

As of today, there are over 4,000 historical buildings in Jūrmala, of which more than 400 are recognized as architectural monuments. Although a significant number of original structures have been irretrievably lost due to destruction and neglect, the construction of new houses in the characteristic Jūrmala style continues to this day.

Buildings with similar architecture remain relevant in the market, despite the limited supply of such properties.

Demand for private houses and land plots

The demand for private homes in this picturesque region is leading to an intensification of buyers, especially for land plots. As of 2020, the number of land transactions increased by 36% compared to the previous year, and this interest is still continuing.

The competition in the land market is quite high, especially in popular locations where available plots are disappearing rapidly.

Expert opinion

Roman Golubev, the editor-in-chief of the magazine "Square Meter" and the portal varianti.lv, emphasizes that there is a severe shortage of quality housing in the market, representing both new and historical architecture.

Many owners restore old buildings not with the intention of selling them, but solely to create a comfortable home for themselves. Currently, land plots with existing old structures are mainly being offered.

Restoration issues

However, the demolition of these structures for new construction proves difficult due to the requirements of the local administration, which oblige to either fully or partially restore the old facades. This makes it much more difficult for many buyers who favor modern architectural solutions.

Traditional architectural styles face certain challenges, and not all potential owners are prepared to deal with the issues related to preserving the historical appearance of buildings. Some investors express a willingness to restore old structures but encounter a lengthy and costly process.

Purchase of available plots

For those who prefer modern housing in Jurmala, it is easier to look for available plots to build a new house from scratch. However, there are also obstacles in this area.

One of the main obstacles is the lack of available land suitable for individual construction projects. For example, a plot of 1726 m² is on sale for €1,150,000, highlighting the existing shortage of accessible areas in the region.

This plot is located in a dune area, close to Dzintari Avenue, which makes it particularly tempting for developers.

The future of Jūrmala

Thus, one can observe the fascinating process of shaping a new identity for Jūrmala, where anyone wishing to become part of life in this resort city should consider both its architectural history and modern construction trends.

Becoming a center of interest for many, Jūrmala continues to attract the attention of both potential buyers and architects, which contributes to the emergence of new construction projects and supports the unique architectural style of this charming resort.

A plot of land in Jūrmala

For sale is a plot of land in Jurmala, which is only 50 meters from the sea, with a convenient gate that gives access to the dunes. Opposite is a park for recreation, and the famous concert hall "Dzintari" can be reached in just 5 minutes.

All urban utilities are already connected, allowing construction to begin without additional costs. The building density for this plot is 30%, with a maximum building height of up to 12 meters and a maximum of 2.5 floors. This excellent plot of 1,870 m² is offered for the price of 149,000 euros.

Unique offer from VIP Real

In addition to this, there is a unique offer from VIP Real: a plot of land in Jurmala with an area of 1,710 m² is available for 1,100,000 euros and is located in the dune zone in Bulduri. The plot has a regular shape and is surrounded by a fence, ensuring the necessary privacy.

The maximum building density here is 25%. The current sale includes an ideal share of land with an area of 3,739 m², which can be divided and registered under a separate cadastral number, thereby ensuring unique rights to the plot.

Proposal for an apartment building

The following plot is located in Jūrmala, covering an area of 1,732 m², with a price of 490,000 euros. It is an ideal place for building an apartment building. All necessary city utilities are available, and the pine trees surrounding the plot create an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.

The developed infrastructure, along with the proximity to the river and the sea, adds extra value to this offer.

An old wooden house on Bulduro.

The next plot of 1,406 m² can be purchased for 890,000 euros. It is located in a dune area on Boulevard Bouldouroux and contains an old wooden house, which is a monument of architecture, with an area of 465 m².

The house requires a complete restoration or reconstruction, which opens up wide opportunities for creativity and the realization of many ideas. The ceiling height on the first floor reaches 3.05 meters, while on the second floor it is 2.70 meters. The sea is just 100 meters away, and the Dzintari Concert Hall is easily and quickly accessible.

Exclusive plot on the Lielupe River

Additionally, an exclusive plot of land on the Lielupe River in Majori, measuring 2,561 m², is offered for 1,000,000 euros. A project for the construction of a three-story building with 18 apartments, totaling 3,048 m², has already been developed and approved, with each apartment to be equipped with:

• 2 or 3 bedrooms
• two bathrooms
• terrace

The underground parking is designed for 24 cars. All necessary utilities are already connected, and the yacht club and beach are just a ten-minute walk away.

Available plot of land

A plot is also available for 240,000 euros with an area of 2,260 m². It already has all urban utilities, and the infrastructure is well-developed, making it attractive. The natural part of the surrounding area is bordered by a forest, creating a peaceful environment for living.

The plot is only 150 meters from the sea

The offer for 259,000 euros includes a plot of 1,231 m², located just 150 meters from the sea, which features a small house. Convenient access is provided by an asphalt road, all city utilities are available, and it takes only ten minutes to reach Jomas Street and the Dzintari Concert Hall.

Sunny plot for a private house

In addition, a solar plot is for sale for 219,000 euros, covering an area of 1,500 m², which is perfect for building a private house. It is located just 350 meters from the sea and also features well-developed infrastructure.

A plot of land next to the Lielupe River

Finally, a plot of 1,343 m² next to the Lielupe River is offered, which can be an excellent choice for 299,000 euros. This offer stands out among others due to its location and attractiveness.

Land plots in Jūrmala

In Jurmala, located in Latvia, there are many attractive plots of land available, each with its own features and advantages. They all come with well-developed infrastructure, making them ideal for various construction projects and creating a comfortable living environment.

VIP plot

The first sentence I want to highlight is about the VIP area with an area of3000 m², the cost of which is970,000 €It provides all the necessary urban amenities, and the proximity to the sea and river adds to the appeal of this place for permanent living or vacationing.

A plot in Maiori

Another interesting option is a plot of land measuring465 m²in Majorca. Its price is258,000 €and the location in an area with developed infrastructure creates comfortable conditions for life, because in walking distance are:

• stores
• restaurants
• cafe
• spa salons
• tennis courts

This is the perfect solution for people who value convenience and comfort.

A plot of land near Jomas Street

And here is the plot in929 m²for360,000 €The one located near Jomas Street also deserves attention.

The housing market in Jurmala: what influences the cost of houses and plots of land

According to Roman Golubev, the editor of the publication "Kvadratnyy Metar" and the portal Varianti.lv, to become the owner of residential property in the coastal area of Jūrmala, you will need at least 500,000 euros. Finding modern housing in a sought-after area for less than this amount is practically an impossible task. For instance, in 2020, a plot of land without buildings in the area of Bulduros Avenue was valued at 1.05 million euros, which means that the cost per square meter exceeded 500 euros.

It is important to note that the cost of real estate sharply increases as you get closer to the seaside compared to plots located by the river. For example, a house with an area of about 250-300 square meters located on the first line by the sea will cost no less than one million euros. Prices for old houses that are subject to demolition also reach 600-800 thousand euros, which confirms the high value in this segment.

For those who prefer riverside housing, there is an opportunity to find similar homes at more reasonable prices—sometimes two to three times lower than the market value. However, one should also consider another category of real estate: luxurious resort homes located on private plots by the Lielupe River. Prices for such properties are comparable to those of homes in areas close to the dunes.

Currently, plots of land in the dune zone have a starting price of 300 euros per square meter. However, if you move a kilometer away from the sea, the price can drop to less than 100 euros per square meter, making this area more accessible for potential buyers.

Examples of available private houses in Jurmala:

• House for 650,000 euros:The total area of this property is 380 square meters, including 6 rooms, 4 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms. When purchasing, there is an option to apply for residency. This cozy house is built with high-quality materials and includes a guest house and a sauna, located on the second line from the river. A spacious hall, a garage for two cars, and a boiler room make this property suitable for comfortable family living.
• Real estate for 2,500,000 euros:This mansion, covering an area of 470 square meters, is located in the quiet area of Melluži, between the coast and the Lielupe River. Thoughtful design and bright interiors create a cozy atmosphere on the well-maintained grounds, surrounded by pine forests. The living space reaches 395 square meters, ensuring comfort for all residents.
• Exclusive house for 3,200,000 euros:This elite property, covering 580 square meters, is located right on the banks of the Lielupe River. The first floor features a spacious and bright living room with a fireplace, connected to the kitchen and dining area. These spaces offer stunning views of the river. Additionally, there is a separate kitchen, a bathroom, an office, and a cozy guest room.

Thus, the real estate market in Jurmala offers a wide range of options for different categories of buyers, but it is important to remember that prices depend on location, size, and individual characteristics of the property. For a successful real estate purchase, it is critically important to approach the selection process and financial preparation carefully.

A magnificent house is for sale in Melluži, Latvia, priced at €800,000. This three-level property is move-in ready and fully furnished, equipped with modern appliances and high-quality plumbing.

The area has a well-developed infrastructure: there are shops, cafes, tennis courts, and educational institutions nearby. You can reach the Dzintari concert hall in just 13 minutes by car, and the pedestrian street Jomas is only a 12-minute drive away.

Attractive offers in Jurmala

When it comes to Jūrmala, there are quite a few interesting offers to be found. For example, a cozy house for €270,000, with an area of 113 m². This is a true example of Jūrmala architecture, located in a quiet and comfortable neighborhood.

• The interior space includes separate rooms and ample area for storing personal belongings.
• There is a separate area that can be converted into a separate apartment.
• There is a small plot of land in the yard for storage and relaxation areas, with the possibility of setting up a grill.
• The garden is decorated with a variety of flowers and shrubs, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

Other interesting house options

Another attractive find is a spacious house priced at €450,000, with a total area of 288 m². It is located in a picturesque part of Jūrmala, just a few minutes' walk from the river and the sea.

• This house features a successful layout and high-quality building materials.
• The presence of a cozy fireplace will make winter evenings comfortable.
• A modern kitchen and a well-maintained garden with pines, where you can enjoy tranquility.

A house with a large area and excellent possibilities.

It is also worth mentioning a large house with an area of 456 m² and a price of €990,000. For more detailed information, you can contact the specialists at Habita, who will help you learn all the nuances of the offer.

Modern house in Dubulti

Another interesting property from Habita is a modern house in Dubulti, priced at €600,000. It is located in a quiet and peaceful area near the river.

• The interior finishing is completely ready.
• On the first level, there is an entrance hall, a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a bathroom and a laundry room.
• On the second level, there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a terrace for enjoyable leisure time.

Luxurious house in Jurmala

Don't forget about the luxurious house in Jurmala priced at €3,750,000, with a total area of 700 m², just 500 meters from the sea.

• The underground floor features a garage for two cars, a boiler room, and a fitness room.
• On the first floor, there is also a garage for two cars, a bathroom, an office, and a living room with one bedroom.
• On the second level, there are two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and stunning views of the surroundings.

House by the sea in Mellushi

In Mellushi, there is also a house priced at €450,000 with an area of 164 m², located in a picturesque area by the sea.

• On the first floor, there is a hallway, an open kitchen, and a living room with a fireplace, as well as access to a winter terrace that leads to the garden.
• There is an office and a sauna with a shower, creating a cozy atmosphere for relaxation.

In all the listed options, you will find the comfort and quality you expect from real estate on the coast of Latvia.

Description of the house in Jurmala

On the second level of the house, there is a bathroom, two compact bedrooms with access to the balcony, as well as the master bedroom, which features a spacious wardrobe. The house for sale is located in Jurmala, Latvia, offered by Mercury Group, at a price of320,000 €, with a total area102 m².

The property is located in Bulduri, just a short distance from500 meters from the seaOn the first floor, there are two rooms, a kitchen, a veranda, a hallway, and a bathroom, while the upper level has two more bedrooms.

Despite the need for some minor repairs, this house offers magnificent spaces adjacent to pine forests and a living hedge, creating a sense of seclusion. The popular pedestrian street of Jomas is just a short walk away.5 minutes.

Luxurious house from VIP Real

A stylish house is also offered by VIP Real at a price of980,000 €, with a total area of227 m²This accommodation in Jūrmala includesseven roomsandfive bathroomsand alsothree parking spaces.

For more detailed information about this offer, it is recommended to contact the representatives of Habita.

Cozy house in Melluzh

In addition, a cozy house is available in the Melluzhi area from Habita International Estates Ltd for395,000 €, with a total area250 m²andsix roomsThe convenient layout includes:

• three bedrooms;
• three bathrooms;
• living room with kitchen;
• a garage for two cars.

High-quality materials have been used for the finishing, and the stylish and classic design creates a comfortable space. The area of the land plot is2100 m²It is well-maintained and visually appealing. This property is located in a quiet area of Jūrmala, not far from the center.

Modern two-story house in Bulduri

Mercury Group also offers a cozy two-story house in the center of Bulduuri for470,000 €, with an area of195 m²withfive roomsandtwo bathroomsThis is the perfect place to live comfortably.

The house is fully furnished and equipped with appliances, featuring designer renovations. On the first floor, there are:

• living room with a fireplace;
• kitchen-dining room;
• cabinet;
• two bathrooms with a sauna;
• dressing room
• a garage for two cars.

The second floor includes additional rooms, creating ideal conditions for comfortable living.

Other real estate options from Mercury Group

Another house from Mercury Group in Jurmala is offered at a price420,000 €and has an area229 m²The house includes:

• five rooms;
• three bathrooms;
• private sauna;
• a vast area in the quiet district of Vaivari.

The first floor consists of:

• living room;
• kitchens;
• additional room/bedroom;
• bathroom
• storage rooms.

There is also a spacious entrance area with access to the garage.two carsOn the second floor, there are three separate bedrooms, one of which has its own walk-in closet.

Modern house in the Valteri area

Additionally, a modern house in Jurmala, in the Valteri area, is offered for sale at a price of320,000 €with a total area200 square metersThis property is conveniently located near the Lielupe River and is situated on a plot of land with a total area of1200 m², which has a pond.

The first floor includes:

• a spacious living room with a fireplace;
• hall;
• a kitchen with access to the yard;
• utility room
• bathroom

On the second floor, there are three separate bedrooms.

Conclusion: A luxurious home from VIP Real

In conclusion, VIP Real offers a unique spacious house in Bulduri, Latvia, for1,750,000 €, with an area of440 m², which is conveniently located in Jūrmala. This accommodation combines luxury and comfort, making it an excellent choice for a large family.

Conclusion

Of course, Jurmala is not just a resort, but a place with a rich history and unique architecture. While exploring its streets, one can feel the atmosphere of the past and the warmth brought by the cozy wooden houses lining the shores of the Gulf of Riga. And as I walked through the streets of Juras and Jomas, I was struck by the multitude of styles and eras concentrated in this small yet significant town.

It is important to note that Jūrmala is not just a tourist destination, but also a real place where various architectural styles and traditions are concentrated, still finding their audience today. The historical buildings that have survived on Bulduros and Dzintari avenues remind us of the times of the flourishing Russian nobility, when summer cottages were built with grandeur and luxury. These places continue to inspire admiration among both residents and visitors, confirming their status not only as architectural monuments but also as symbols of cultural heritage.

Modern housing in Jurmala

Today's Jūrmala offers a variety of housing options — from luxurious villas on the "golden mile" to more modest standard apartments in the inner districts. This range of prices opens up opportunities for different categories of buyers:

• Investors— looking for profitable real estate.
• Families— looking for the perfect place to relax.
• Young couples— those who wish to enjoy nature and relaxation.

I have noticed how many families and young couples choose this resort as a place to enjoy life and nature while still being close to entertainment and cultural events.

Architectural heritage

As an architect, I admire how the residents of Jūrmala cherish their heritage by preserving unique wooden summer houses and beautiful landscapes. Although many buildings have been lost, the surviving homes tell timeless stories about the city and its inhabitants, while new projects ensure modern development without compromising historical integrity.

Conclusion

Thus, Jūrmala is not just a resort on the coast; it is a magical place that combines historical charm with modern comfort. I urge anyone who wants to discover something more than just beaches to come here and enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer. You will not only be able to relax but also feel the spirit of Jūrmala, which remains true to its traditions despite the passage of time and changes around it. Each visit fills the heart with warmth and memories that stay with us forever.