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The Ultimate Travel Guide For Riga

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Welcome to Riga, the captivating capital of Latvia. Riga, being the largest city in Latvia, has managed to maintain a charming small-town atmosphere despite being home to almost half of Latvia's population. It seamlessly blends the richness of its past with the vibrancy of the present.

Picture yourself strolling along the enchanting cobblestone streets of the medieval Old Town, where every building tells a story. However, it is when you encounter Riga's Art Nouveau architecture that your perspective on architectural beauty will be forever transformed. Personally, I never had much interest in architecture before visiting Riga – it completely changed my perspective. At every turn, you'll find beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and there is even an entire neighborhood dedicated to this captivating style.

So in this travel guide, I'll take you to the best places in Riga. We'll start with the vibrant Old Town – which is my favorite part of Riga – and I will show my favorite places, from the bustling Riga Central Market for some Latvian food, to the peaceful Bastejkalna Park for some tranquility. And let's not forget all the fascinating museums that shed light on Latvia's fascinating history.

History of Riga

Old town of riga (vecrīga), town hall square, house of the blackheads, the three brothers, swedish gate, freedom monument, bastejkalna park, latvian war museum, the museum of the occupation of latvia, the corner house (kgb museum), st. peter's church, riga cathedral, nativity of christ cathedral, riga central market (rigas centraltirgus), alberta street (alberta iela), art nouveau museum, daytrip to jūrmala, gray peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi), latvian rye bread (rupjmaize), latvian honey cake (medus kūka), latvian bread soup (maizes zupa), sour cabbage soup (skābeņu zupa), potato pancakes (rasols), sweet pastries (pīrāgi), cepelinai (zeppelins), smoked fish, riga black balsam, traveling to riga by plane, traveling to riga by train, traveling to riga by bus, traveling to riga by car, traveling to riga by ferry, hotels in riga, hostels in riga, airbnb in riga, public transport in riga, frequently asked questions, what is the best time to travel to riga, what currency does latvia use, what language do they speak in riga, are credit cards accepted in latvia, is riga expensive, is riga a safe city, budget breakdown.

Riga has a fascinating history that spans centuries. It traces its roots back to ancient Baltic tribes who settled along the banks of the Daugava River. The Teutonic Knights played a crucial role in Riga's development by constructing a fortress in the 13th century, which propelled the city into becoming an important trading hub within the Hanseatic League.

Throughout its history, Riga underwent various changes in power,  from Swedish and Polish rule to becoming part of the Russian Empire. This diverse heritage has left lasting imprints on Riga's architecture and culture.

The 20th century brought significant transformations as well. In 1918, Latvian independence was officially declared right in the heart of the city. The years between the two World Wars were like a golden age for Riga, with arts and culture flourishing, and the economy booming.

But, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. Riga had to endure some tough times during World War II. It went through Soviet rule, then Nazi occupation, and later, more Soviet rule.

In 1991, Latvia regained independence from the Soviet Union and reinstated Riga as its capital. This era marked a revival of Latvian culture along with economic development and democratic reforms.

Fast forward to today, and Riga is standing tall and proud as a lively European capital. It has a stunning Old Town, beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, and a cultural and economic scene that's thriving. This city knows how to keep the best of its past close to its heart while looking forward to a super exciting future as a vibrant hub of Baltic culture and creativity.

Things to see and do in Riga

Riga is a treasure trove of fascinating attractions that give you a peek into its incredible history, architecture, and culture. I have put together a special list of places and activities you absolutely shouldn't miss when you're in town. Just keep in mind that opening hours can sometimes change due to holidays, events, or other unexpected stuff, so I recommend double-checking the official websites before you head over, just to make sure you've got the latest info. That way, you won't miss out on any of the fun!

Get ready to soak up the enchanting vibes of Riga's historic center. It's like a journey back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets and get lost in the stories told by the incredible architecture. Keep an eye out for iconic spots like the Riga Cathedral and the House of the Blackheads.

And when your feet need a break, don't worry – there are tons of cozy cafes and restaurants just waiting to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for local flavors or international dishes, they've got you covered. There are plenty of souvenir shops too, where you can snag some unique Latvian handicrafts to remember your trip by.

Town Hall Square is a place that's not just historic but also buzzing with life. This is the place where all the walking tours start, so it's always crowded and there are often street musicians playing — at least in summer. It has also been a key player in shaping Riga's story, and it's pretty impressive.

As the name already gave it away, you can find the Riga Town Hall here — which unfortunately is not open to the public. And don't forget to check out the iconic Roland Statue.

Another building you cannot miss is the House of the Blackheads, an impressive building that combines Gothic and Renaissance architecture — which has a big role in Riga's history.

The Town Hall Square isn't just another pretty square; it's where the action happens. Festivals and events make this place come alive, and you'll feel that vibrant energy in the air. Imagine witnessing a live show from a Latvian band surrounded by beautiful architecture.

Town Hall Square is perfect for taking photos, unwinding, and getting a taste of some Latvian culture.

Set right in the heart of Riga's Old Town, the House of the Blackheads is a jaw-dropping masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Once upon a time, it was home to the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a group of unmarried merchants and shipowners. Their cultural flair is practically etched into the building's ornate exterior.

The building originates from 1334 but was heavily damaged during the wars. The Soviets eventually bulldozed it, but it was rebuilt between 1996 and 1999. Only the basement is original.

The House of the Blackheads is also a hub for cultural events and exhibitions that let you soak up its rich history and get a deeper understanding of Riga's past, influenced by these influential merchant guilds. So, if you're planning a visit, remember that opening hours might shift a bit, but typically, you can swing by between 10 AM and 6 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Now, when you explore the narrow streets of Riga, you'll stumble upon the Three Brothers. These are no ordinary siblings; they're three historic buildings, each showcasing a different architectural style – Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. They're like a time machine that lets you see how Riga's architecture has evolved over the years, offering a window into the city's past.

These Three Brothers are believed to be the oldest residential complex in Riga. They're like a living history book, telling tales of the city's diverse past and preserving its architectural legacy. Today they house the Latvian Museum of Architecture. Typically, you can visit from 10 AM to 6 PM, but do check because opening hours might change a bit. It is closed on Mondays.

The Swedish Gate is a link to the city's medieval past, a powerful reminder of where it all began and how those roots still hold strong today.

This grand stone arch, once a part of the ancient city walls, has an air of mystery and fascination. It's a window into the city's defense strategies and how the landscape has transformed over the centuries. Walking through this gate is like stepping back in time, and you can almost hear the echoes of the bustling activity that once filled this passageway – or the young woman that was locked up inside the wall, although there is no proof that this has ever happened.

Beyond its historical importance, the Swedish Gate is a visual symbol of Riga's resilience throughout the ages. It's a testament to how the city has evolved from its medieval beginnings to the vibrant place it is today.

Right at the center of Riga, you'll find the Freedom Monument – a powerful symbol of Latvia's independence and national pride. It's hard to miss, Milda, a striking female figure, standing tall to represent freedom and the nation's spirit. This monument is a work of art, covered in sculptures and reliefs that hold deep historical meaning for Latvians who've lived through all kinds of political changes. It's a tribute to their unwavering spirit.

It's a living symbol that keeps inspiring and bringing people together, whether you're a local or just passing through as a tourist. If you're in Riga, this landmark is an absolute must-see.

One time when I walked towards the monument, I saw an older woman bowing for the monument. This shows how important Milda is for the locals. They don't take their freedom for granted.

Right next to the Freedom Monument is Bastejkalna Park. This park is a tranquil oasis in the middle of all the city hustle and bustle. Imagine winding paths, lush greenery, and a serene canal – it's a perfect spot for some peace and quiet. And it's not just nature at its best; the park's also got sculptures and beautiful little bridges – like the Love Bridge –  that add to its charm.

Bastejkalna Park is conveniently close to all sorts of historical sites and cultural attractions. That means you can take a leisurely stroll, have a quiet picnic, and still be within reach of all the cool stuff in the city. So, it's kind of like getting the best of both worlds.

The Latvian War Museum stands as a tribute to the military history of Latvia and its relentless fight for independence. It is housed in the historic Powder Tower (Pulvertornis), and it's a captivating journey through Latvia's wartime experiences, from ancient battles to more recent conflicts.

Inside, you'll find a great collection of artifacts, weapons, uniforms, and documents that shed light on the bravery and sacrifices of Latvian soldiers throughout the years. A visit to the Latvian War Museum will give you a profound understanding of the nation's resilience and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.

The opening hours can sometimes change, but typically, you can drop by from 10 AM to 6 PM. Keep in mind that it's closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia stands as a solemn tribute to the country's tumultuous history during periods of foreign occupation. It's like a powerful and necessary reminder of those challenging times.

Inside, the museum offers a thought-provoking journey through its impactful exhibitions, artifacts, and personal stories. It immerses visitors in Latvia's history under both Nazi and Soviet rule, shedding light on the resilience and sacrifices of its people. This isn't just a history lesson; it's an opportunity for contemplation about the unwavering spirit of Latvians and the vital importance of preserving freedom and human rights.

The museum serves as a testament to Latvia's dedication to remembering and learning from its past. It's a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to understand Latvia's path to independence and its strong commitment to democratic values. While the opening hours can sometimes shift, typically, it's open from 11 AM to 5 PM but closed on Mondays.

The Corner House, known as Stūra Māja by locals, is a place deeply etched in Latvia's history. Originally constructed as an apartment complex in the early 1900s, it later became a symbol of oppression during the dark days of Soviet occupation. It became the Latvian headquarters of the KGB – the Soviet Union's secret police force – and became a place of interrogations, imprisonment, and even executions of political dissidents and those deemed enemies of the state.

Today, the Corner House has been transformed into a museum. It's a solemn reminder of the brutal times Latvia endured under Soviet rule and the tremendous suffering its people went through. Visitors can explore various exhibits that shed light on the tactics used by the Soviet regime, the stories of brave individuals who resisted, and Latvia's relentless fight for independence.

Visiting the Corner House and the Museum of Occupation can be emotionally challenging, but it's a wellspring of knowledge about Latvia's history and its unyielding commitment to democratic values despite facing suppression. It's a vital destination for those who want to grasp Latvia's past and witness its ongoing dedication to safeguarding democratic principles.

The Corner House is open daily from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM, but remember, entry is only possible through a guided tour, and you can grab your tickets online. It's a popular spot, so planning your visit is a smart move if you want to secure a spot. The downstairs exhibition, which tells the building's history through text and photographs, is free of charge.

St. Peter's Church is more than just a church; it's an architectural masterpiece that's a magnet for visitors. You can't miss its majestic spire, and there's so much history here. But here's the cool part – if you're up for a bit of adventure, you can climb up the tower. From up there, you get these jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city and the Daugava River.

When you step inside, you'll be greeted by intricate decorations and artifacts that tell the story of Riga's past. So, visiting St. Peter's Church isn't just about history; it's also about getting these incredible views that'll make your jaw drop.

Just keep in mind that opening hours can change a bit, but typically, you can check it out from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Now, let's go to the Riga Cathedral, right in the heart of the city –  a true architectural gem with Gothic design. With its impressive spires and intricate interior details, this place is a treasure chest. Inside, you'll find a magnificent organ and some stunning religious artwork.

This cathedral is a symbol of Riga, and visiting it is like diving deep into centuries of history, art, and spirituality. It's more than just a building; it's a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. If you're in Riga, it's a must-visit spot.

Typically, you can visit Riga Cathedral from 10 AM to 5 PM (on Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM).

The Nativity of Christ Cathedral in Riga is an absolute gem of Russian Orthodox architecture. The golden domes and intricate decorations are nothing short of remarkable. When you step inside, you'll be greeted by breathtaking iconography and religious artworks, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of the city. If you're someone interested in faith, culture, and architecture, this is an essential visit. You can usually explore it from 8 AM to 6 PM, so make sure to include it in your Riga itinerary.

Riga Central Market is no ordinary market – it's one of the largest and most vibrant in all of Europe. It's a full-blown experience, letting you dive headfirst into the local food scene and culture. What makes it even cooler is that it's housed in five historic pavilions that used to be zeppelin hangars. You'll find a stunning variety of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and even handcrafted stuff.

As soon as you step in, you'll be hit by amazing aromas –  and not-so-amazing aromas –  and a rainbow of colors. It's a place to explore, chat with the friendly vendors, and, most importantly, taste the local flavors. From mouthwatering pastries to delectable smoked meats, Riga Central Market is a treasure trove of Latvian cuisine.

But here's a pro tip: if you want to take your experience up a notch, consider joining a local guide on a food tour. They'll show you the ropes, share cool stories about the market's history, introduce you to hidden gems, and help you understand Latvian gastronomy on a deeper level. That way, your visit becomes this unforgettable journey of flavors and culture.

Just a heads up, opening hours can vary a bit, but typically, the market welcomes visitors from early morning until late afternoon. I learned that the market sometimes closes for sanitary reasons.

Renowned as an iconic street in Riga, Alberta Street boasts exceptional examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Alberta Street showcases its influence on the artistic movement with its meticulously decorated buildings, adorned with intricate facades and ornate details. It provides a captivating experience for architecture enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Riga's rich cultural and artistic heritage through its exceptional structures.

Prepare to be transported to the captivating world of the influential Art Nouveau movement at the Art Nouveau Museum in Riga. This museum isn't your typical one; it's set up in an actual apartment that's a time machine to the past. Here, you can dive headfirst into the intricate designs of this artistic era.

From the furniture to the decor, you'll be surrounded by opulence and innovation. But it's not just about aesthetics; it's a chance to understand how this movement shaped Riga's architectural landscape. As you wander through these meticulously preserved rooms, you'll not only admire the beauty but also get a feel for the social and cultural vibes that made this period so remarkable.

The Art Nouveau Museum is a real treat for design enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Just keep in mind that the operating hours can change a bit, but usually, you can drop by from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Jūrmala, a charming coastal town close to Riga, is a cherished destination that both locals and tourists love. It's all about those unspoiled beaches and sea breezes that create a serene and picturesque retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

But Jūrmala isn't just a pretty town; it has a rich history as a spa town. For centuries, people have been coming here for the healing mineral springs and therapeutic mud. You can enjoy spa treatments, experience wellness retreats, or just relax at one of the many wellness centers and sanatoriums in town.

Jūrmala's architecture is a real gem too, with all those captivating wooden houses decked out in intricate designs that reflect the town's unique cultural heritage. They call it "Jūrmala's wooden lace," and it's truly enchanting to explore.

Local food in Riga

Riga's food scene is a delightful blend of traditional flavors, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Latvia. But what makes it even more exciting is how it's embraced influences from all over the world. You can expect everything from comforting, hearty meals to exquisite local delicacies. Don't miss the chance to explore and taste your way through the remarkable local cuisine in Riga while you are there.

A beloved traditional Latvian dish, tender gray peas cooked with onions, typically served alongside crispy bacon. This simple yet flavorful creation beautifully exemplifies the utilization of locally sourced ingredients. It's a taste of Latvian comfort and tradition, a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

An integral element of Latvian cuisine, Latvian rye bread is renowned for its dense texture and robust flavor profile. Often enjoyed with butter or various delectable toppings, it holds a special place in locals' hearts.

This cake has multiple layers and is prepared using honey, sour cream, and spices. It's a delightful dessert that people often indulge in during special celebrations.

In Latvia, there is a traditional and comforting dish called "Maizes zupa," which is Latvian bread soup. It is particularly enjoyed during the colder months, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Latvia. The soup's main ingredients are simple yet flavorful, mainly consisting of rye bread.

This delightful soup combines sauerkraut, potatoes, carrots and occasionally meat. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that is particularly enjoyed during the colder months.

A cherished Latvian delicacy, potato pancakes are often served as a side dish or appetizer. They're created by grating potatoes and mixing them with eggs, onions, and flour before frying them to a crispy perfection.

Pīrāgi are delectable pastries filled with bacon, onion, ham and cheese, mushrooms, and occasionally cabbage. They are a beloved snack or appetizer that brings joy during festive celebrations.

While not exclusively associated with Latvia alone, cepelinai holds significant recognition in Latvia as a well-loved dish. They are big dumplings made with potatoes and filled with meat, usually served alongside a rich and creamy sauce.

Given its proximity to the Baltic Sea, Riga offers an enticing variety of smoked fish dishes ranging from smoked herring to salmon and sprats. Smoked fish is commonly accompanied by potatoes, bread, or incorporated into refreshing salads.

Although not a culinary creation per se, Riga Black Balsam is a herbal liqueur originating from Riga. Crafted from a blend of diverse herbs, spices, and natural ingredients, it is frequently savored as an after-dinner digestif or utilized in cocktails. There are a few different options available; the original version has an alcohol content of 45%, while the black currant and cherry versions have a slightly lower alcohol content of 30%.

Fun fact: my favorite Black Balsam is the original. The other ones are too sweet for me. But with an alcohol percentage of 45%, there are not a lot of tourists that actually like this one. I got some weird looks whenever I ordered an original. Have you tried it? I'm curious which one is your favorite. Let me know in the comments.

Traveling to Riga

When it comes to traveling to Riga, there are plenty of options available for different preferences, budgets, and travel styles. Let's explore a few ways you can reach this charming Baltic city.

Riga International Airport (RIX) is the main gateway and one of the busiest airports in the Baltic region. It serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient choice for travelers coming from different parts of the world. You have the flexibility to select direct or connecting flights offered by major airlines based on your preferred route and schedule.

Riga boasts a well-connected railway network that provides easy access to neighboring countries like Estonia, Lithuania, and Russia. International trains offer comfortable and scenic journeys where you can unwind while admiring the beautiful landscapes as you approach Latvia's capital city. However, please note that due to railway track differences, there are no direct trains between the Baltics and the rest of the European Union.

There is significant construction activity taking place near the Riga train station to improve connections to other parts of the European Union. In the future, the existing train station will be replaced by a new and modern one. This ambitious project, known as Rail Baltica, is intended to seamlessly integrate the Baltic states into the wider European rail network, providing more convenient and efficient travel options for both residents and visitors. This will further improve the accessibility of Riga and the entire Baltic region.

If you're looking for an affordable and flexible way to travel, long-distance buses are another excellent option for getting to Riga. Several bus companies operate routes to Riga from various European cities. These modern coaches are equipped with Wi-Fi access, power outlets, and comfortable reclining seats to ensure a pleasant journey. Notable bus companies serving this route include LuxExpress, FlixBus, and ECOLINES.

If you're someone who loves the sense of freedom that comes with hitting the open road, driving to Riga is a fantastic choice. Latvia boasts a well-maintained road system, and you can easily connect to neighboring countries through the European highway network. Traveling by car provides the opportunity to discover the picturesque countryside and make spontaneous stops along your journey. It's a wonderful way to soak in the beauty of the Baltic region and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

If you're coming from Scandinavia, there are ferry routes available that connect cities like Stockholm or Helsinki to Riga. Ferries provide a great way to cross the Baltic Sea, offering various onboard amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

Accommodations in Riga

When it comes to planning your trip to Riga, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial. Understanding the costs associated with different options will help you plan your budget effectively.

Riga offers a variety of hotels to suit every budget. Prices can vary based on factors such as location, star rating, and amenities. In general, mid-range hotels in central areas may cost anywhere between €60 and €150 per night, while luxury hotels may start from €150.

For budget-conscious travelers, hostels are a great option. Dormitory beds in Riga's hostels typically range from €10 to €30 per night, depending on their location and the facilities they offer. If you prefer more privacy, private rooms within hostels start at around €40 per night.

If you're considering Airbnb accommodations in Riga, there's a wide range of prices and styles available. You can find options starting at around €30 per night for a private room or a small apartment. Prices will increase for larger spaces or more luxurious accommodations.

Riga offers a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, trolleybuses, and minibuses. Trams, in particular, are popular due to their dedicated tracks, ensuring smooth travel even during busy periods. Buses serve various destinations, while trolleybuses provide eco-friendly options.

For single-ride journeys, tickets usually cost around €1.50. Additionally, timed tickets are available for 90 minutes (€1.50), 24 hours (€5), and one month (€30). These timed tickets allow for unlimited rides within the specified duration but remember to validate your ticket on every single vehicle. You can purchase tickets from vending machines at tram and trolley bus stops, ticket booths at major transport hubs, the official Riga Transport Authority website online, or via mobile apps.

To travel from the airport to the city, the cheapest way is to take bus 22. You can buy tickets at the Narvesen kiosk just outside the terminal building for €1.50 or purchase a ticket from the bus driver, which will cost you €2. The bus will take you to the city center in about 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Have a look at my post about  how to get from Riga Airport to the city center  if you are looking for other options.

To wrap it all up, Riga is like a storybook come to life. Its cobblestone streets, ancient Old Town, and amazing Art Nouveau architecture create an enchanting atmosphere. Whether you're taking in a show at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, delving into history at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, or enjoying the local flavors at Riga Central Market, every moment here feels like a page in a vibrant cultural adventure.

You will have the best weather between May and September. The rest of the year can be really cold. Summer has happy locals and interesting festivals, Winter has snow and Christmas markets. It really depends on what you prefer.

The currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR), which has been the official currency of the country since January 1, 2014.

In Riga, the official language spoken is Latvian . Check out some basic words and phrases if you are curious and want to learn some Latvian. The locals will appreciate it.

English is also widely spoken and understood in Riga, which makes it convenient for travelers to navigate the city and interact with locals.

There are many Russians living in Riga, so you will hear some Russian on the street. A local city guide told me that there is some tension between Latvians and Russians, and Latvians cannot appreciate tourists greeting or thanking them in Russian. Keep this in mind when you interact with the locals.

Credit cards are generally accepted throughout Latvia. Major credit card brands like Visa, MasterCard and sometimes American Express are commonly used at hotels, restaurants, shops, and other businesses in urban areas and tourist hotspots. However, it's advisable to have some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit more rural or remote areas where card acceptance might be more limited.

Riga is generally considered to be more affordable than many other European capitals. However, the cost of living can still vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. You can see more in the budget breakdown .

Riga is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. During my last trip, I was there for a whole week by myself and I felt safe all the time, even in the middle of the night. I do recommend not drawing too much attention, though. And try to blend in, especially when you are alone.

Keep in mind that the prices may differ depending on various factors like the location, amenities, seasonal demand and any special events or festivals taking place when you plan to travel. It's always a good idea to do some research on current prices and read recent reviews to make sure you're getting the best deal that matches your accommodation preferences. All of these prices are for one person.

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Hey there! I'm Rainier and I'm the person behind Roaming with Rainier. I've always been really into traveling and photography. I've been fortunate enough to visit incredible destinations and there are still so many more on my bucket list. My plan is to explore breathtaking places around the world and share my experiences through articles and reviews.

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Things to do in Riga

The Perfect Three Days in Riga

Riga is so much more than just a cheap travel destination.  True Latvian beer, whimsical traditional dances, frozen river swimming and Art Nouveau architecture galore. Check out this perfect itinerary for three days in Riga.

Riga Itinerary: Day One

9am – get out of the hotel and stroll around.

Base yourself in the heart of the Old Town. Walking out of your hotel is like walking into a scene from the Middle Ages – the perfectly-preserved architecture is a treat in and of itself.

One of the great pleasures of Riga is just strolling around early in the morning as the city wakes up and starts to come alive.

Climb St Peter’s Church , have a look at the rising sun and the carmine red rooftops of Riga. Stop by the Gunpowder Tower and wander around the old city walls.

11am – The Capital of Art Nouveau

Ever wondered why Riga is nicknamed the capital of Art Nouveau? Head straight to the Alberta Street and you’ll start to see why.

Eight marvellous buildings clustered around the Art Noveau Museum of Riga – it’s impossible not to stare.

Take the time to step into the museum (if only to have a look at the most striking staircase in the whole of Riga) – you won’t regret it.

12 – Noon and the Medieval Feast

Latvian food is hearty to say in the least. Adventurous eaters should try the local fare (hint: it’s big on meat – don’t be surprised if some more unusual cuts like pigs ears feature on the menu). You’ll need something wholesome to keep you on your feet for the rest of the day.

2pm – Design and Hipster Hub: Terbatas Street

Once you’re all filled up, make your way to Terbatas Street – a hipster hub filled with design-led shops, small cafeterias and some very cool people. This is the spot to find some of Riga’s best coffees – it would be rude not to indulge.

Don’t miss some of Latvia’s coolest designer shops – they have something for everyone, whether you are hunting out an appropriate souvenir for grandma. Feeling daring? It’s also the place where Riga’s best tattoo parlours are based.

6pm – Enjoy a Glass of (Real) Beer. Or two

There’s no drink more Latvian than beer. Dark, light, unfiltered or sweetened with apple or cherry – the choice is yours. If you want to get all geeky about it – the science behind pairing food with beer can be as complex as choosing a wine to go with your food.

In fact, Latvians love beer so much that they often order beer with their meals, even in high-end restaurants. Not sure where to start?The rule of thumb is dark with beef, pale with chicken. Easy, huh?

8pm – Folk Dance, the Cool Way

If you haven’t tried folk dancing before, now is the time to fix it. Head to the Latvian Folk Dances that are hosted by the Riga Dance Club. They’re held once a week and totally free to attend. Don’t worry if you don’t know any of the moves, they’ll teach you everything you need to know.

Bed down in one of Riga’s cool hostels or hotels for the night.

Riga Itinerary: Day Two

10am – Market Time

If you’re lucky enough to time your visit for the weekend, you should know that Saturdays are market days. Take the opportunity to visit Riga Central Market also the second-hand Latgalite market to pick up a few bargains.  You should be aware that Latgalite market is a bit of a pickpocket hotspot, so keep an eye on your belongings.

The Central Market is the largest market in the whole of Europe – be sure to try kefir , the delicious Latvian probiotic drink.

1pm – Lunch in the Market

If you’re into your seafood,  pop into the fish restaurant in the market hall. It has a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Riga, with many local chefs citing it as their favourite place to fill up.

3pm –  If You Are Feeling Particularly Daring

If you’re visiting during the winter and you are feeling particularly daring, this one is for you. The “Winter Seal” involves swimming in a pool cut out of a frozen river or lake. Something you’re pretty much guaranteed to remember. Do as the locals do and have a beer for courage first.

7pm – Enjoy Modern Baltic cuisine

Latvian cuisine is filling and hearty – big on root vegetables, beans and pulses accompanied by regional favourites such as deer and duck.

10pm – Nightlife at its Best

There’s a heck of a lot going on at night – and something to suit all tastes. ONE ONE , Piens and KKC are particularly good spots. You can also opt for the rooftop view and more mainstream music at the Sky Lounge.

Riga Itinerary: Day Three

11am – Brunch and Something to Kill Your Hangover

Although Saturday is the main market day, the Kalnciema Street Market is held on Sundays. And luckily so! After a crazy night out, you need some waffles with organic Latvian jam on top in your life. Or perhaps some roasted almonds and some mulled wine. Not only is the food at the market to die for, it also hosts stalls with Latvian handcrafted goods and farm produce.

1pm –  Times Past

Hop onto a trolleybus (an adventure in its own right) or regular bus and go straight to one of the oldest open-air museums in Europe – The Ethnographic Open-air Museum of Latvia. It’s at its best in February, The Month of Candles, when you can make one yourself.

Even without any events, the museum is comprised of beautiful old age buildings that are worth taking the time to look around.

Along with the opportunity to find out about daily life in times past,  they also offer traditional Latvian refreshments. The perfect time to try herb tea that’s been made on the bonfire. Turns out that off-the-grid is in style!

Although three days is not enough to discover Riga in full, it’s a good introduction to this lively and beautiful city. What’s more – it’s pretty affordable too!

Handy Tips: How to Get Around and When to go to Riga

• There are plenty of boutique hotels in Riga. Pick a hotel in the heart of the Old Town, so it is easy to walk around the city.
• Public transport is easy to get around – trams and buses are easiest but the trolleybus is an attraction of its own.
• If you’re keen to try a spot of seal swimming, you’ll obviously need to visit during the winter months.
• Riga really comes into its own during the late spring or summer, when it is sunny and the nights are long. Midsummer’s night is a huge spectacle – time your trip to coincide if you can.

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Travel Guide To Riga

Since gaining independence, Latvia has been shaking off its Soviet past while busily rediscovering its architectural history. It has forged ahead with its ambition to become an affluent, liberal service-led democracy in the western European mould. Old Riga is not the prettiest historic centre in the Baltic States but is undoubtedly the liveliest and the most civilised. Must-sees include the Dome cathedral and its surrounding square, the bustling Central Market and the Art Nouveau district - an assembly of jewel-like architectural masterpieces dating from the early years of the last century. Despite being a bustling city of nearly a million inhabitants, Riga finds a nice balance between industriousness and quality of life. It has welcomed Western consumer culture with open arms, embracing pizza delivery, 24-hour cash machines and internet cafés. Spend a weekend visiting the revolutionary Baltic state and find yourself caught up in the capital's new-found energy.

Where to stay in Riga

CENTRA HOTEL

1 Audeju, Riga (00 371 722 6441; www.centra.lv). Chic, Scandinavian-style hotel, combining an Old Town location with cool, minimalist decoration. £

GRAND PALACE HOTEL

Pils 12, Riga (00 371 6704 4001; www.schlossle-hotels.com ). Traditional luxury in an Old Town mansion, which only opened in summer 2000, but is already Riga's finest hotel. ££

KONVENTA SETA

Kaleju iela 9-11, Riga (00 371 708 7531; www.derome.lv ). Comfortable rooms in a converted 15th-century convent. Central location beside St Peter's Church. £

PARK HOTEL RIDZENE

Reimersa iela 1, Riga (00 371 732 4433; www.srs-worldhotels.com ). Norwegian-owned luxury hotel, uncomprisingly modern in style. Its restaurant, Piramida, is building a reputation for its classy Nordic cooking (try the salmon marinated in anise and Balzams). ££

Where to eat out in Riga

CHARLESTONS

Blaumana iela 38-40 (00 371 777 0573). Exceptionally agreeable, serving contemporary brasserie food: tiger shrimp with corn salsa, garlic bread and coriander pesto; soups, salads, satay.

Any of this chain of Latvian eating houses are worth a visit (branches include Alus Seta, Tirgonu iela 6, Vermanitis, Caka iela 55; Dzirnavas, Dzirnavu 76). For a no-holds-barred Latvian experience, check out the Lido atputas centr at Krasta 76 on the outskirts of town, a refectory with bars, lounges and children's play areas in a wooden complex, complete with a windmill.

Elizabetes iela 19 (00 371 733 2634). Chef Martins Ritins is one of Latvia's top culinary talents and this is probably Riga's most serious restaurant, a slick, modern setting with highly-worked dishes often revealing a Japanese influence.

ZAGARA JAUNAIS RESTORANS

Dzirnavu 84, Berga bazaars (00 371 721 7225). The glam Riga restaurant of the moment, flagship of the Zagars empire. Serves beautifully presented, ambitious fusion food.

CAFES AND BARS

Elisabetes iela. A wooden pavilion on the edge of the Vermanes gardens, specialising in tea (it has more than 100 different types). Cushions and candles in the upstairs gallery enhance the chill-out factor.

Dzirnavu iela 84, Berga Bazar. Done out in 1960s style, this is Riga's grooviest bar.

Kalku iela 22. Pleasantly retro Russian café/restaurant, with walls decorated with gilded murals glorifying the Revolution.

PULKVEDIM NEVIENS NERAKSTA

Peldu 26-28. A classic example of Rigan nightlife, a bohemian, noisy and fun bar.

What to see in Riga

ETHOGRAPHIC OPEN-AIR MUSUEM OF LATVIA

Brivibas gatve 440 (00 371 799 4510). Hundreds of traditional wooden buildings, brought from all over the country, have been installed in a lakeside setting 30 minutes out of town, on the shore of Lake Jugla on the eastern edge of the city. The museum is normally open from 10am to 5pm daily from mid-May to mid-October, except on the last day of each month when it is closed.

LATVIAN MUSEUM OF ARCHITECTURE

19 Maza Pils iela (00 371 722 0779). Housed in one of the Three Brothers, a quaint row of houses which dates from the 15th century, making it the oldest house in Latvia.

LATVIAN NATIONAL OPERA

Aspazijas bulvaris 3 (00 371 707 3745; www.opera.lv ). The Opera House has been redecorated at a cost of US$30 million, the carpets and wall-colours are an exact replica of the 1863 original.

OCCUPATION MUSEUM OF LATVIA

Strelnieku lauums 1 (00 371 721 2715). Displays here chart the Nazi and Soviet occupations of the city between 1940 and 1964. The exhibition has been criticised for having a strong nationalist bias. However, it is informative, disturbing in parts and probably Riga's most interesting museum. It is open daily from 11am to 5pm.

THE FREEDOM MONUMENT

The central landmark of the park ring is the Freedom Monument on Brivibas bulvaris, near the corner of Raina bulvaris. Paid for by public donations, the monument was erected in 1935 in the style you could describe as 30s nationalism, on a spot where a statue of Peter the Great had stood.

THE OLD TOWN AND THE DOME CATHEDRAL

Many old buildings survive in the Old Town. In places, whole squares have stood since the 17th-century or earlier. Old Riga is a protected zone of narrow, crooked, now mainly pedestrianised streets, made prettier by restoration and dotted with cafés and restaurants. The biggest pleasure here is to simply wander the streets. The brick cathedral known as Rigas Doms (from the German Dom , meaning cathedral), towers beside Doma laukums, the major open space within the Old Town and is surrounded by an unusual mix of architectural styles. Founded in 1211 as the seat of the Riga diocese, the Dome is now a church and organ concert hall. Church services are held at noon on Sunday.

How to get to Riga

Riga airport (Lidosta Riga) is at Skulte, 14km west of the city centre.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

SAS (0161 489 2737; www.scandinavian.net ) flies daily from Heathrow to Riga, via Copenhagen. Finnair (0870 241 4411; www.finnair.com ) flies daily from Heathrow and Gatwick, via Helsinki. Regent Holidays (0117 921 1711) offers weekend-break packages.

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Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, with a great selection of accommodation options to suit any budget and a wide variety of world cuisine. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Jugendstil Art Nouveau architecture – “music in stone” – line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife.

Bastion Hill and the Guild Hall

Cathedral square, drinking and nightlife, the freedom monument, jews in latvia, lofty views, museum of the sun, national art museum, occupation museum, rīga art nouveau museum, rīga motor museum, swedish gate and the powder tower, town hall square.

Old Rīga (Vecrīga), centred around Cathedral Square (Doma laukums) and bisected from east to west by Kaļķu iela, forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town (Milda). Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Jugendstil motifs.

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Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

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Rovaniemi, the recognized abode of Santa Claus, serves as the ultimate hub for delving into Arctic landscapes and immersing in Lappish (Sami) heritage. Engage in a diverse array of pursuits, from thrilling snowshoe escapades to chasing the enchanting Northern Lights, or embracing the roles of a husk

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Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

Rīga has extensive budget accommodation, mostly concentrated in the southern half of Old Rīga, with a few options in nearby New Town and by the Central Market. Reserve in advance in summer.

Bastion Hill (Bastejkalns) – the park that slopes down to the city canal at the end of Torna iela – is a reminder of the city’s more recent history: on January 20, 1991, four people were killed by Soviet fire during an attempted crackdown on Latvia’s independence drive. Stones bearing the victims’ names mark where they fell near the Bastejas bulvāris entrance to the park.

Cathedral Square is dominated by the towering red-brick Rīga Cathedral , established in 1211 and featuring one of the biggest organs in Europe. On the other side of the cathedral, is the worthwhile Museum of Rīga’s History and Navigation , featuring Bronze Age and medieval artefacts, such as a mummified criminal’s hand, as well as temporary art exhibitions.

From Cathedral Square, Pils iela runs down to Castle Square (Pils laukums) and Rīga Castle (Rīgas pils), built in 1515 and now home to the Latvian president. Follow Mazā Pils iela from Pils laukums to see the Three Brothers (Trīs brāli), three charming medieval houses, one of which, built in the fifteenth century, is thought to be the oldest in Latvia.

Rīga Bourse Art Museum

Opposite the cathedral, the former building of the Latvia Stock Exchange at Doma laukums 6 contains the Rīga Bourse Art Museum (Mākslas muzejs Rīgas birža), the nation’s collection of old masters and archaeological treasures. A small Monet landscape and a Rodin sculpture are the main big-name draws, although the Flemish still-lives and classical antiquities are enough to keep the interest from flagging.

The Old Town offers innumerable opportunities for bar hopping, with a wide range of watering holes (many serve decent food too) filling up with fun-seeking locals seven nights a week. Most dance venues offer a commercial diet of techno, Euro-hits and golden oldies, although you might get more varieties in smaller clubs, especially on week-nights. Drinks are affordable even in the most stylish places, and there's usually some sort of food menu.

Classical music in Rīga is of an exceptionally high standard. The Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and Latvian National Opera are the biggest shows in town. The theatre scene is rich and varied, although you'll need a working knowledge of Latvian or Russian to appreciate it fully.

Most restaurants in Riga serve international cuisine, while self-service cafes offer a hearty and inexpensive meal. Restaurant prices are generally higher than in Vilnius or Tallinn, but still noticeably lower than in Western European capitals. On average, a three-course dinner with drinks will cost around 20-30 euros - more if you plan to order wine.

The modernist Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis), known affectionately as “Milda”, dominates the view along Brīvības bulvāris as it enters the New Town , holding aloft three stars symbolizing the three regions of Latvia. Incredibly, the monument survived the Soviet era, and nowadays two soldiers stand guard here in symbolic protection of Latvia’s independence.

Jews living in Rīga and other parts of Latvia suffered the same fate as Jews in other parts of Eastern Europe when Latvia was overrun by Nazis. The Rīga Ghetto Museum built on the site of the Jewish ghetto behind the Central Market consists of two outdoor exhibits: a seemingly endless wall of victims’ names, and photographs and text illustrating the life of the Jewish community in different parts of Latvia before World War II. On Peitavas iela 6/8, you’ll find the last surviving synagogue in Rīga; when all the synagogues in the city were burned down by the Nazis in 1941, this synagogue and its treasures – the sacred scrolls – escaped destruction due to its close proximity to other buildings. There’s a memorial on Gogoļa iela where the Great Choral Synagogue was burnt down in July 1941 with its 300-strong congregation trapped inside. At Skolas 6, you will find a small but gritty and informative Jews In Latvia Museum on the history of Jewish life in Latvia from the eighteenth century onwards, including persecution by both Nazis and Soviets and the survival and “rebirth” of Judaism in independent Latvia.

If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church (Pēter baznīca), a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire and climb the tower (3Ls) for excellent panoramic views of the city. Battling the church for the finest views of Rīga is “Stalin’s Birthday Cake” – the Academy of Sciences , a 1950s Empire State Building lookalike at Akadēmijas laukums 1. The 65m skyscraper, adorned with hammers and sickles near the top, has a 360-degree viewing platform on the 17th floor.

One of Rīga’s most intriguing sights is the quaint and curious Museum of the Sun at Valnu iela 30 (Saules muzejs), a private collection of artworks, ornaments and cult objects connected with the fiery life-giving orb in the title. Visually attractive throughout, the display also has interesting things to say about the position of the sun in religion and folk belief, and the development of astronomy.

Esplanade Park runs north from Brīvības bulvāris. At the far end of the park, the worthwhile Latvian National Art Museum (Valsts mākslas muzejs), housed in a grandiose Neoclassical building, displays an impressive array of nineteenth- and twentieth-century Latvian paintings, sculptures and drawings by Rosentāls, Padegs, Valters and others, as well as changing modern art exhibitions. In a separate building, the Arsenāls Exhibition Hall stages cutting-edge temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists.

Temporarily housed in the former building of the American Embassy at Raina bulvāris 7, the Occupation Museum (Latvijas okupācijas muzejs) documents the atrocities committed against Latvia’s population by both Nazi and Soviet occupations. Emotion-inducing exhibits include letters to loved ones thrown from trains by Latvians forcibly removed to Siberia, and the simple household items (children’s toys, Christian crosses) they fashioned by hand to make life bearable once they got there.

The Rīga Art Nouveau Museum , housed in the former apartment of renowned artist and engineer Konstantīns Pēkšēns, is a must for anyone with an interest in Art Nouveau. You can view original period furniture and some of Pēkšēns’ work and the visit culminates in the viewing of a short video which will enable you to tell the difference between “romantic” and “vertical” Art Nouveau facades on the city’s streets.

It’s worth travelling 8km out of town to seek out one of Rīga’s odder attractions – the Motor Museum (Rīgas motormuzejs). Home to an impressive collection of vehicles through the ages, its pride and joy are the vehicles belonging to Soviet heads of state: see Stalin lounging in the back seat of his bulletproof ZIS.

On Torņa iela, you’ll find the seventeenth-century Swedish Gate (Zviedru vārti), the sole surviving city gate. At the end of Torņa iela is the Powder Tower (Pulvertornis), a vast, fourteenth-century bastion, home to the excellent War Museum (Kara muzejs) – nine floors of the country’s turbulent history, from medieval weaponry to world wars I and II and Latvia’s struggle for independence.

From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads ( Melngalvju nams ), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Once serving as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white saint St Maurice as their patron (hence, the name "Blackheads"). Largely destroyed in 1941, the House was lovingly reconstructed for the 800th anniversary of Rīga’s foundation in 2001.

The ugly oblong structure next door belongs to the Occupation Museum ( Latvijas okupācijas muzejs ), currently closed for long-term renovation – visit the museum’s temporary display on Raina bulvaris.

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2 to 3 Days in Riga Itinerary: Things to Do in Latvia’s Capital

Last Updated on January 23, 2024

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Though the capital of Latvia is still considered to be a relatively “off the beaten path” destination in Europe, planning a 2 or 3 days in Riga itinerary is a fantastic introduction to this part of the world!

In recent years, the city has attracted visitors with cheap flights and cheap alcohol prices, but Riga has a lot more to offer than simply a party destination. With a beautiful, historic old town and gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture that put cities like Budapest or Prague to shame, Riga has something to offer everyone.

While Riga doesn’t get nearly the international tourism attention it deserves, it has steadily been creeping onto the radar of potential visitors over the past few years.

It’s clear why Riga is becoming popular for a wide range of different travellers – it offers something different for everybody. Whether you’re a history and architecture buff, a foodie or simply looking for fun and affordable nightlife – you will easily be able to incorporate those things during your time in the Latvian capital!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Riga?

While the Latvian capital is fairly compact, we suggest visitors spend a minimum of 2 days in Riga. This will give you plenty of time to explore the Old Town and walk around the historical centre of the city.

With 3 days, you’ll also have the opportunity to take a day trip and explore some of the Latvian countryside to places such as Jurmala and Kemeri National Park.

Getting To & Around Riga

Riga is home to its own international airport and has excellent connections to many European cities – and a few further afield, as well. Riga Airport is the hub for Air Baltic and also serves budget carriers like Ryanair, so you’re likely to be able to find an affordable flight to the city if you’re planning a bit of a city break.

The Riga Airport is located about 10 kilometres from Central Riga. You can catch a public bus to the city centre from the airport (bus number 22) or you could opt to take a taxi. If you use the latter option, we recommend using the Bolt app to hail a cab or alternatively, you can organise a private transfer here.

Riga is also well-connected to other cities in the region, such as Tallinn or Vilnius and there are plenty of buses to the city.

You can also easily reach Riga from smaller cities, such as Liepaja in Latvia and Parnu and Tartu in Estonia. The Central Bus Station in Riga is located, unsurprisingly, quite centrally so it is easy to get to the city centre from there. You can view schedules here.

Once in the city, you’ll find Riga’s Old Town and central areas are reasonably compact. This means that if you’re only spending 2 days you’ll only need to use public transport on a rare occasion, if at all. It also means that you likely won’t need to hire a car. Riga has an extensive bus, tram and trolleybus network within the city limits.

For those interested in visiting Jurmala & Kemeri National Park , then you may also consider hiring a car.

While you don’t need to have a car to get around Riga and you can also easily reach and get around Jurmala without your own vehicle, it does make it easier to visit nearby Kemeri National Park, which is located on the western edge of Jurmala.

If you do want to hire a car while in Riga, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to compare prices across several different rental companies.

2 to 3-Day Riga Itinerary

Riga has several fantastic attractions to keep travellers busy during their stay in the Latvian capital.

Day 1 – Old Town, Canal Cruise, Central Riga & More

Riga old town.

There is no better place to begin your trip to Riga than in the historic Old Town. While this part of Riga has undoubtedly attracted more and more tourists over the years there is a very good reason for this –  its cobblestone streets and charming medieval architecture is simply a delight to walk around and there are many interesting sites to explore.

The House of Blackheads is one of the most iconic sites in Riga, originally built in the 14th century for German merchants it was completely rebuilt in the late 90s after being destroyed during WWII.

One of the most famous churches that’s worth seeing is St Peter’s Church located in the Old Town. Built in the early 13th century, it is over 120 metres tall and offers visitors a chance to climb the tower to the top and get a wonderful view of Riga and the Old Town.

The Riga Cathedral is another famous church located in the Old Town. Constructed in the 13th Century, it is famous for its organ which contains 6,718 pipes! Along the side of the Riga Cathedral lies Dome Square , a major meeting point in Old Riga that is lined with cafes and is a great place to take in.

Other points of interest in the Old Town include The Three Brothers which are the oldest residential houses in Riga and home to the Architectural Museum .

The Swedish Gate is also worth visiting, which is the last remaining part of the Old City Walls. The Powder Tower is another point of interest, which used to be an important defensive post for Riga and is now home to the Latvian War Museum .

If you would like to learn more about the history of the Old Town during your first 24 hours in Riga then it’s worth taking a free walking tour with Riga Free Tours . Their Old Riga Tour starts at 10 am daily, which does mean an early start but gives you the advantage of getting there before many other tour groups arrive! During the peak summer season they also run additional tours in the afternoon.

It is also possible to book a paid walking tour here if it suits your schedule better.

Bastejkalna Park & Canal Cruise

After a few hours of walking around the Old Town, you will undoubtedly be due for a break! Luckily, you’re not too far from some lovely green spaces and a canal to relax by!

Bastejkalna Park which is located just on the outskirts of the Old Town is the perfect escape if you want to get away from the Old Town as it becomes more crowded throughout the day. There is a lovely canal that runs through the park and a number of inviting benches to rest your sore legs.

If you want to get another vantage point of the Old Town then you can take a short one-hour boat ride along the canal. River Cruises  has regular departures costing €12 per person and leave regardless if they are filled or not.

The cruise will take you along the canal and then onto the Daugava River.

See the Freedom Monument & Laima Clock

Located right next to the canal, is the Freedom Monument is considered an important symbol of Latvian independence and commemorates Latvian lives that were lost during the Latvian War of Independence. 

Whilst nowhere near as elaborate as what you might see at Buckingham Palace in London, there is a changing of the guard that occurs on the hour during the day.

Opposite the Freedom Monument is the Laima Clock, which advertises Latvia’s famous chocolate company and is considered the main meeting point for locals in the city.

Visit Central Riga

Whilst the Old Town of Riga might be what draws in many tourists, it’s worth crossing the bridge over the canal and exploring the streets of Central Riga. This area is filled with beautiful buildings and one could easily spend hours marvelling at the Art Nouveau architecture.

Whilst this area might lack the large number of tourist sites found in the Old Town, you will definitely be less likely to bump into tour groups and can see a side of Riga that many locals call home today.

This is also the best area to stay in during your visit to Riga as it’s more affordable than the Old Town and there are many fantastic cafes and restaurants here which are catered to locals. 

One monument that is worth detouring to during your walk around central Riga is the Nativity of Christ Cathedral. Located in Esplanade Park, it is the largest Orthodox church in the Baltics and has a fascinating history.

It was originally built in the 19th Century but was closed during the Soviet era and used as a planetarium. It was restored to its original purpose following Latvia’s independence.

Day 2 – Central Market & Museums

Explore riga central market.

There’s arguably no better way to understand a culture than by its food so if you want to see where many locals shop, head straight to Riga Central Market. The market was originally opened in 1930, is open daily and is considered one of the largest markets in Europe.

Walk down the aisles and explore the many vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy products, fish, meat and much more!

There are also a number of vendors selling freshly baked pastries, making this a great place to pick up some breakfast or lunch! You can also book a food tour of the market here.

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is one of the best museums in Riga to explore that covers the history of the German and Soviet occupation of Latvia from WWII until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. 

It has been newly renovated and is located in the Old Town near House of the Blackheads. Entrance to the museum costs €5 per person

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

If you want to get a bit outside of the city centre, then this museum provides a glimpse into Latvia of days past as well as a welcome escape from the relatively busy central area of Riga.

Located a short bus ride from the city, the open-air museum allows you to explore and learn more about life in rural Latvia.

There are a collection of traditional houses and workstations for different types of occupations. You are given a map on arrival that allows you to explore at your own leisure as well as enjoy the surrounding nature.

Take buses 1, 19, 28 or 29 to get here by public transport or a Bolt ride will cost around €8-10 from central Riga. Entrance in the museum costs €4 per person.

Enjoy Riga’s famous nightlife

Riga’s nightlife has become increasingly famous over the years and has become especially popular for stag-do parties.

Most of the nightlife is concentrated in the Old Town, however, there are a lot of tourist traps in the historical centre so it’s worth venturing out for cheaper drink prices and more local venues.

One place I can recommend if you’re after a more relaxed night is Vina Studija which is a hip wine bar in Central Riga. They offer an extensive wine list all available by the glass with detailed descriptions on the menu costing between €5-7. There is also a restaurant if you’re after a full meal. 

Day 3 – Jurmala & Kemeri National Park

Day trip to jurmala.

One of the best things to do in Riga is to take a day trip to nearby Jūrmala which has kilometres of beautiful sandy Baltic beach. During the summer months, many tourists arrive from nearby countries so accommodation can be difficult to find which makes a day trip from Riga the perfect option to enjoy Jūrmala!

The water might be a bit chilly for people used to warmer climates however it’s definitely still swimmable during the summer months if you can handle a little bit of chill. There are also a number of nature trails in the area for walking or biking if you feel like being more active.

If you’re not visiting Riga on a budget and feel like you need some pampering after your first 2 days in Riga then Hotel Jurmala Spa offers a number of affordable spa treatments including a variety of massages.

Jūrmala can be easily be reached by taking a 30-minute train ride from Riga Central station. Please note that there is no train station named Jurmala and there are a number of possible stations you can exit when visiting Jurmala.

Majori is the most popular area for visitors while Dubulti is a good option if you want a slightly less busy beach but still have access to facilities such as a beach bar and changing areas.

If you are looking to be a bit active, then consider heading to Kemeri National Park before exploring Jurmala.

Famous for its bog walk, the national park is most easily reached by your own car, however, you can take the train to Kemeri station (it’s on the same line as the Jurmala trains) and walk the 4km to the trailhead.

The town of Kemeri itself is also very much worth exploring and boasts a number of interesting attractions, such as an abandoned Soviet-era sanitorium and sulphuric water taps.

It is possible to book this full-day tour or this full-day tour that takes you to both Kemeri and the beach.

Places to Eat in Riga

There are a number of fantastic places to eat in Riga ranging from traditional Latvian fare to trendy and hip cuisine drawing on both local and international influences.

Big Bad Bagels – Located in central Riga, Big Bad Bagels is a hip cafe serving freshly baked bagels with several different fillings along with a range of coffee and juices. This cafe is a great option for breakfast or lunch and they also do takeaway if you are eager to start exploring.

Lido – Lido is a cafeteria-style restaurant chain that is extremely popular with locals. It offers a changing menu of traditional Latvian cuisine including meat dishes, potatoes, salads, desserts and much more. There are several locations across Riga and you can eat well here for around €6-10 per person depending on your selections.

Maza Terapija – This is an excellent vegan restaurant in Central Riga. They have a range of different meals available and all are so delicious you won’t know they are vegan! They also have an impressive pastry case for those who have a bit of a sweet tooth.

Kolonade – Located next to the Laima Clock, Kolonade is a great option for lunch if you’re near the Old Town as they have affordable set menus. For a great price, you can choose from one soup and main dish from their daily menu.

Moltto Wine & Grill – Moltto is a trendy restaurant and wine bar located on a quiet street in central Riga. With a vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, this is a great option for dinner as they have an extensive menu of dishes.

Where to Stay in Riga

Greystone Suites & Apartments – If you’re looking for a nice hotel with some self-catering options, then this is a wonderful option for you! It is centrally located and within walking distance of all of the main sites. They have a large range of rooms on offer.

Grand Poet by Semarah – For those looking for a luxury option in the Latvian capital, this 5-star hotel is a great option. They have plush rooms available and countless amenities, such as a state-of-the-art fitness centre, pool and spa. Breakfast is included and they also organise airport shuttles.

Cinnamon Sally Backpacker’s Hostel – located in the heart of Riga close to the Central Market, this small hostel is one of the best places to stay in Riga if you’re on a budget. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also organise social events, making it a great option if you want to meet some people to explore Riga with! 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Riga!

Riga is a fantastic city to visit and offers something to do for a wide range of travellers. While a few days in Riga will give visitors a great introduction to the city there is also more than enough reason to stay longer and enjoy the thriving atmosphere of the Latvian capital. 

Are you planning a trip to Riga? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Posts:

Where to Stay in Riga, Latvia: The Best Areas & Hotels

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A Traveller’s Guide To Latvian Food And Drink

About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

I went to Riga for 4 nights at the beginning of December 2021 for their Xmas market that unfortunately wasn’t but I loved it that much I’m back there again at the same time this year for 3 nights and get to see the Xmas markets this time. We went to the National Opera House to see The Nutcracker ballet which was magical! The thick snow just makes it more xmassy at that time of year too.

we are visiting Riga 9th November too for the markets… cant wait! thanks for this really helpful guide

Riga is my heritage and I will be visiting next March for the first time. Will it be very cold and will all sites be open as I understand this is not peak tourist season? Thank you for all of the above tips.

Hi Inga, March is definitely a cold month so I suggest looking at the average weather to determine if it’s the right time for you to visit. Site opening times might vary so I suggest checking on their website for any updated information.

Interesting look at what to do in three days as I will arrive mid day on the 28th of April. I will certainly get out early to catch the old part of the city on day two before the crowds arrive so thanks for that tip as well as where to eat and relax.

Lots of great info. Thanks. What would you suggest for a short trip there beginning of November?

Great itinerary. Will follow it for our 5 day stay in Riga starting as soon as we get off the Lux Express coach from Tallinn. Thanks

Glad to hear you found it helpful – hope you have a great time in Riga!

Hello Excellent. You saved my stay in Riga. Abrazos de Colombia.

Glad we helped – hope you have a great trip! 🙂

Thanks for all the great info. I plan to visit in October this year.

Hope you have a great time in Riga, Alida!

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Visiting Riga: 3 Day Travel Guide to Latvia’s Capital

by Asdghik Ashley Melkonian

Table of Contents

Safety Tips for Visiting Riga

Currency in riga, public transportation in riga, town hall square, house of the blackheads, alberta street, three brothers riga, freedom monument, bastejkalna park, riga central market, riga cathedral, st. peter’s church, latvian national opera and ballet, art nouveau museum, swedish gate riga, vermanes garden, nativity of christ cathedral, museum of the occupation, latvian national museum of art, ethnographic open air museum, museum of the history of riga and navigation.

Overlooking the Baltic Sea is a beacon of culture and architecture known as Riga. The beating heart of Latvia was the European Capital of Culture in 2014 and remains one of the most vibrant and travel-worthy destinations in Northern Europe.

Visiting Riga for 3 days is perfect to explore the city’s top sights. This travel guide includes the top things to do in Riga in 72 hours.

Things to Know Before Visiting Riga

Large, crowded areas like the Riga Central Market are usually a dwelling for pickpockets, so keep a watchful eye on your wallet and belongings at all times. Avoid going to Little Moscow at night because the area is known to be a little sketchy. Streetside money exchanges are also meant to trick tourists into trading their Euros for the old and expired Latvian currency. As for taxis, it is always better to ask your hotel for recommendations and a price list if possible.

The official currency used in Latvia is the Euro (€). Both banks and currency exchange offices are available in Riga and they offer different rates, so make sure you compare prices and ask about hidden costs, especially in banks. Beware of credit card scams in places like pubs and nightclubs. Some establishments take advantage of drunken or clueless tourists and use their cards to make online purchases and charge them for extra food and drinks that they never ordered.

Public transportation in Riga is possible thanks to trams, buses, and trolleybuses that operate from 5:30 am till 11:30 pm. You can purchase your ticket straight from the driver for 2 Euros or you can buy an e-ticket from street stalls and other select shops. The e-ticket is cheaper and much more convenient. Routes and bus schedules are available online in English. If you would like to explore Riga by bike, then you can rent a bike for as little as 7 Euros and use the Riga bike route map for guidance.

Top Things to See While Visiting Riga in 3 days

Cobblestone streets and charming old houses adorn the historical center of the city, allowing it to earn its UNESCO World Heritage badge in 1997. Vecriga is home to more than 500 colorful buildings that will take you on a journey through time, back to the days of Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture.

The city is an open museum showcasing a variety of architectural styles that have withstood the test of time. Keep an eye out for the Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church that both dominate the skyline of the old city.

Founded in 1201, the square is as old as Riga itself, and once fell victim to the bombings that occurred during World War II. Fortunately, it was rebuilt and now serves as a great starting point for walking tours around the old city. The square is also a tourist attraction thanks to the diverse collection of buildings surrounding it and the statue of St. Roland who towers over the square carrying his sword and shield like a medieval knight in shining armor.

Related article: Must See Places in Europe in Winter

Riga was once a haven for ships and merchants who traveled from the Baltic to the Black Sea. These merchants held their meetings and elaborate banquets in their Baroque-style headquarters, also known as the House of the Blackheads. The building was erected in 1334 but it was sadly destroyed in World War II, and so Riga decided to rebuild it and make replicas of the original furniture and portraits that once graced its hallways.

The house now features a museum exhibition that showcases a silver collection that was once the envy of the Baltics. It also doubles as a concert venue and a tourist information center with a 14th-century cellar that managed to survive the horrors of the war.

Opening Hours: 11 AM to 6 PM – Sunday to Tuesday.

Guided tours are available for 15 Euros.

Nothing says Art Nouveau like New Town Riga where many famous 19 th century architects left their mark in the shape of extravagant buildings dressed in geometric ornaments and mythical creatures such as dragons and gargoyles. Alberta Street alone is home to a large collection of beautifully designed buildings with unique facades that are sprinkled down the street,  offering a visual feast for your eyes and camera. Alberta is a 20-minute walk from Riga City Hall.

They say good things come in threes and this is the case when it comes to a trio of stone buildings located on Small Castle Street in Riga. Legend has it that the 3 houses were built by people who belong to the same family tree. The eldest house was built around 1490 when Riga was a magnet for Dutch traders. The other two were later constructed in the 17 th century and they also represent the evolution of architecture in Riga through the ages. Let your curiosity take you inside where you can check out the Latvian Museum of Architecture where you will find original blueprints and archives belonging to other historical buildings in the city.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Wednesday, 9 AM to 5 PM on Thursday, 9 AM to 4 PM on Friday

Admission: free

This tall granite and copper monument is more than just a work of art, it is also a symbol of freedom and independence for the Latvian people. You will find it standing at a height of 42 meters right at the end of Brivibas Street. The monument pays tribute to the brave soldiers who died in the war and the main focal point is lady liberty who towers over all the other statues carrying 3 golden stars in her hands. The Freedom Monument, also known as Milda, is a short 7-minute walk from Riga City Hall.

Right across from the Freedom Monument you will find ducks and canal boats wrapped in a lush green ribbon of trees and flower beds. Perfect for picnics and bird spotting, Bastejkalna Park is one of the oldest green spaces in Riga. There is no shortage of picturesque bridges and benches where you can relax and have a small picnic before going sightseeing via the Daugava River. The one-hour river cruise is available all week and gives you the chance to explore Riga by boat.

Tickets are sold at the park and the prices are 15 Euros for adults and 9 Euros for children.

This market is hard to miss for a number of reasons, and the wide array of fresh food is one of them. Overlooking Daugava River, Riga Central Market is housed under four massive hangars divided into five different areas where you can treat your taste buds to marinated herring, smoked cheese or blueberry juice. The possibilities are endless, especially with the presence of eateries that serve Latvian dishes and a dessert shop that sells pancakes topped with berry jam and other baked goods as well.

Opening Hours: Every day from 7 AM to 6 PM

Medieval and grandiose, the Riga Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the Baltic Region. The cathedral survived wars, fires and also experienced a series of makeovers that are evident in its walls and baroque tower. Inside the cathedral, you will encounter one of the biggest organs in Europe.

The organ is illuminated by a collection of stained glass windows that provide a visual history of the city. This harmonious masterpiece has turned the cathedral into a popular music venue where organ music concerts are held every month.

Opening hours: 10 AM to 7 PM every day

Admission Fee:  3 Euros

Less than one kilometer away from the cathedral is none other than St. Peter’s Church, where you can climb up the clock tower for an exclusive panoramic view of Riga. The church is older than its neighbor and harbors the Blue Guard Chapel and Gothic style basilicas. Nowadays, the church hosts art exhibits as well as choir concerts. The entrance fee is 9 Euro for adults and students receive a special discount.

Opening hours: vary according to the season. Normally, Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM during the busy months of spring and summer.

If you feel like spending a glamorous night at the opera, then head over to the white Neoclassical building overlooking the canal. The opera house in Riga was established in 1863 and was once home to the first electric power station in the region. The interior of the building is more extravagant with red velvet curtains and golden accents lining the walls, and flower chandeliers adorning the ceilings.

Public tours are available for anyone interested in exploring the backstage world of the opera and they cost 8 Euros per person, however, you need to book your tickets in advance.

The museum is located in Alberta Street and was once the residence of a famous Latvian architect who designed the entire building from top to bottom. The spiral staircase is one of many Art Nouveau masterpieces found within the vintage walls of the apartment.

Every single room has been renovated and preserved, showcasing a unique collection of furniture and kitchen appliances that date back to the 1900s. The museum offers guided tours for 14.50 Euro, and you can pay an extra €1.50 to have your picture taken with an art nouveau hat.

Opening hours: 10 AM to 6 PM – Tuesday to Sunday

As you’re walking around the old town between the cities medieval walls, you can’t miss the Swedish Gate. It was built in 1698 as a part of the Riga Wall to provide access to barracks outside the city wall.

The five-hectare garden is easily one of the most serene places in downtown Riga. If you go on a stroll down the lush green landscape, you will find people enjoying an outdoor game of chess and boats floating down the canal. The garden is also surrounded by an assortment of cafes, including Biblioteka No.1 where they have a large wine selection and a seasonal menu offering local Latvian Dishes.

Opening Hours: The garden is open all week and is a 6-minute walk from the Freedom Monument.

Vermanes Garden is right across the road from this remarkable cathedral and its shiny domes that tower over the trees of neighboring Esplanade Park. Nativity of Christ is the biggest Orthodox church in the city and the lucky survivor of both wars. The church is famous for its vibrant iconostases and Byzantine-style frescoes.

Opening hours: 7 AM to 6:30 PM

Visiting the Museum of the Occupation teaches you more about Latvia during Nazi and Soviet rule. Photographic evidence and recorded testimonies from war survivors are kept in the museum in an effort to preserve the national memory of the once war-torn country. The museum is currently next to the House of the Blackheads inside a modern building that is hard to miss. You will need to book an appointment to view this private collection. Ask for a discount if you are a student. Many museums in Riga offer discounts for both students and children. Guided tours are available starting at 2.5 Euro.

Opening hours: 11 AM to 5 PM

The recently renovated building is home to classic paintings that are displayed in chronological order. There’s a special wing dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman art. You will also find an Ancient Egyptian mummy inside its very own sarcophagus in the oriental section of the museum. There are two guided tours on offer. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a special family bag for children to keep them entertained.

Admission Fee: 6 Euros. Guided tours cost 15 Euros.

Opening hours: Sunday to Tuesday from 10 AM to 6 PM

This outdoor museum is one of the oldest and largest in Europe. Countryside vibes stay with you while you take a tour of the pine forest and its farmhouses and windmills. A crafts festival is held every year from May to September. You can catch folk artisans in action and buy handmade products from them. The museum also offers pottery lessons and horseback riding for large and small groups.

Opening Hours: Every day from 10 AM to 6 PM – May to September. Their winter hours are different, so make sure that you check their website for more information.

This museum calls Riga Dome Cathedral its home and contains 16 exhibit halls displaying a collection of 500,000 historical treasures. These include a 13th-century ship and a coin collection that was minted when Riga was a free and imperial city. A large section of the museum is devoted to the naval history of the region. You’ll have the chance to explore the sea charts and tools that were used during this era.

Opening Hours: Every day from 10 AM to 5 PM (May 25 – September 30). Their winter hours are different, so make sure that you check the museum’s website for more information.

Other interesting places to see while visiting Riga: Black Magic Balsam Shop and 1221 Restorans.

The Gothic spires that dominate Rīga's cityscape might suggest austerity, but it is the flamboyant art nouveau that forms the flesh and the spirit of this vibrant cosmopolitan city, the largest of all three Baltic capitals. Like all northerners, it is quiet and reserved on the outside, but there is some powerful chemistry going on inside its hip bars, modern art centres and the kitchens of its cool experimental restaurants.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Rīga Ghetto & Latvian Holocaust Museum

Maskavas Forštate, Avotu Iela & Grīziņkalns

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Biķernieki Memorial

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Kalnciema Kvartāls

A lovingly restored courtyard with several vintage wooden buildings is home to creative cafes, shops and restaurants. It's also home to a fantastic…

Rīga Central Market

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Latvian Academy of Science Observation Deck

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Rīga Motor Museum

The stars of the collection at this surprisingly well-funded and engrossing museum are cars that once belonged to Soviet luminaries such as Gorky, Stalin,…

Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

If you don’t have time to visit the Latvian countryside, a stop at this open-air museum is a must. Sitting along the shores of Lake Jugla just northeast…

Rīga Brethren Cemetery

The Brothers' Cemetery features a monument by Kārlis Zāle (the designer of the Freedom Monument) dedicated to the Latvian soldiers who died during WWI…

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Home » Travel Guides » Latvia » 25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia)

25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia)

The capital of Latvia is the largest city in the three Baltic states and is home to one third of Latvia’s total population.

There’s a youthful vitality to Riga that shines through in its thumping nightlife, trendy dining spots and thriving alternative scene.

Riga has an absorbing history to uncover, as a Medieval Hanseatic League member, and a city that has lived under Swedish, Polish, Russian Empire, Soviet and Nazi rule.

The old centre, Vecrīga, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with labyrinthine streets, Medieval churches and guild halls.

And when Riga outgrew its Medieval walls at the turn of the 20th century there was a spectacular burst of creativity that left the city with more than 800 Art Nouveau buildings, more than any other city in the world.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Riga :

The old centre of Riga on the right bank of the Daugava River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On these scurrying cobblestone streets and sociable squares are Riga’s oldest houses and churches.

Vecrīga is stacked with restaurants, nightspots, art galleries and museums.

At a cafe you have to order the dessert named after Vecrīga , made from choux pastry filled with curd and vanilla cream and dusted with icing sugar.

Rozena iela is such a narrow street that you can touch both sides as you walk, while the venerable Skārņu Street has an arts and crafts market where you can get a tasteful souvenir.

The Great and Small Guild Halls hark back to when Riga was a thriving Hanseatic City, trading across the Baltic and Northwest Europe.

Vecrīga lost a third of its historic monuments in the Second World War, but many were rebuilt after Independence in 1990.

2. Art Nouveau Architecture

Riga is an Art Nouveau wonderland, with more than 800 buildings, a third of the city’s stock, dating from the prime years of the movement at the start of the 20th century.

This is the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture, easy to identify for its curved doorways and windows, abundant floral reliefs, female sculptures, whimsical gargoyles or Romantic nationalist imagery.

The reason for this proliferation of Art Nouveau is that Riga had a financial boom and needed fashionable homes for a growing bourgeoisie when the movement was flourishing.

So most of these residences lie in the newer “Centrs” district, to the north and east of Vecrīga, beyond the former walls.

We have a few examples on this list, but one of the masterpieces is at 10a and 10b on Elizabetes street, by “Riga’s Gaudí”, Mikhail Eisenstein.

3. Town Hall Square

Standing on Riga’s Town Hall Square and gazing at the Town Hall and House of the Blackheads, it’s mind-boggling to think that these monuments are little more than 20 years old.

The reconstruction is seamless, and the plaza has a grandeur fit for a capital.

Sticking out like a sore thumb next to the House of the Blackheads is a dark and squat 1970s Soviet building that until recently contained the Occupation Museum.

The Roland Statue, depicting a mythological knight, is a signature of historic German towns, symbolising the city’s Medieval privileges.

Also keep your eyes peeled for a modest stone marker in the ground, recording the location for what is believed to be the world’s first decorated Christmas tree, erected by the Brotherhood of Blackheads in 1510.

4. House of the Blackheads

The pièce de résistance on Town Hall Square is undoubtedly the magnificent House of the Blackheads, first built for an association of unmarried merchants and ship-owners in the 1330s.

This exuberantly adorned brick building was a nexus point for business and trade in Riga during the Hanseatic years.

And as they were bachelors, the Blackheads were known for bringing life to Riga society, organising parties and celebrations.

The building was modified in the 16th and 19th centuries, before being wrecked during a German bombing raid in 1941. The reconstruction didn’t take place until after the Soviet period, and was finished in 1999. You can go in from Tuesday to Sunday to learn about the Blackheads and the history of the building.

The vaults in the basement are original and date from the 14th century, while the stupendous Celebration Hall and the collection of antique silver are must-sees.

5. Albert Street

If you have limited time to hunt down Riga’s Art Nouveau marvels there are many clustered together on Albert Street, which is like an outdoor gallery for architecture.

One of the many surprising things about Albert Street is just how quickly these buildings went up.

The artery took on its inimitable appearance within just seven years, from 1901 to 1908, and eight of the buildings are listed as Latvian state monuments.

Much of the street is the work of Russian architect Mikhail Eisenstein, with special mention for Konstantīns Pēkšēns and his protégé Eižens Laube.

The must-sees are the listed monuments at 2, 2a, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12 and 13. Take as long as you can to appreciate the reliefs and sculptures on the facades, bearing the Romantic Nationalist motifs and mythological figures that were a hallmark of Art Nouveau.

6. Three Brothers

At 17, 19 and 21 Mazā Pils Street stand the oldest complex of houses in Riga, dating from the 15th century.

The oldest facade is no. 17, which has a mix of Gothic and Renaissance in its crow-stepped gable and the pointed arch on its doorway.

Painted pale yellow, No. 19 dates to the middle of the 17th century and blends Renaissance with Dutch Mannerist design.

The distinguished Classical portal here is newer and was built in 1746. This building houses the Latvian Architecture Museum if you’re curious.

Lastly, the slender no. 21 is a Baroque dwelling from the end of the 17th century, with a flowing curved gable.

7. Freedom Monument

East of Vecrīga this solemn landmark remembers the soldiers killed fighting Soviet forces during the Latvian War of Independence (1918-20). Standing 42 metres high, the Freedom Monument (1935) is built from red granite and travertine, and crested by a copper sculpture of Liberty holding three golden stars.

This monument remains the centrepiece for official remembrance ceremonies in the city.

If you approach the base you’ll find 13 groups of reliefs recording national heroes, allegories, images from Latvian culture and pivotal moments in the nation’s history like the Russian Revolution of 1905 and the War of Independence.

8. Bastejkalna Parks

The park around the Freedom Monument reaches across both sides of the Pilsētas Kanāls (canal), which meanders along the course of Riga’s old moat.

Until 1856 this elevated area was the site of Riga’s eastern fortifications, and its name translates to “Bastion Hill”. Over the course of the 19th century a dignified boulevard, gaslights, sculptures, formal flowerbeds and a manmade waterfall were laid out on the hill, while cute wrought iron bridges traversed the canal.

The resplendent buildings neighbouring the park, like the Latvian National Opera and University of Latvia, all add to the sense of ceremony.

Watch the sun go down from the hill and amble beside the canal to see the ducks, swans and beavers.

9. Riga Central Market

Included in Riga’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Riga Central Market is one of the largest and most visited markets in Eastern Europe.

Up to 100,000 shoppers enter its pavilions every day.

The building is a wonder in its own right, constructed in the second half of the 1920s and repurposing German zeppelin hangars into pavilions.

These titanic buildings are right on the Daugava, just south of Vecrīga, and each one has its own speciality, be it gastronomic specialities, fish, meat, dairy or vegetables.

There are also stalls to browse outside, while the former warehouses (Spikeri), have been turned into a trendy arts and entertainment zone.

Some goodies that may take you out of your comfort zone are smoked eels, Rupjmaizes kārtojums (a layered dessert made from rye bread) and hemp paste.

10. Riga Cathedral

An enduring symbol for Riga, the “Dome Cathedral” is the seat of the Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia.

The building has been altered many times since it was first built by the right bank of the Daugava River at the start of the 13th century.

Like all of the churches in Vecrīga the cathedral has a cockerel atop its spire, weighting 86 kg and functioning as a weather vane.

There’s an older version on show in the cathedral’s delightful Romanesque cloister, one of the oldest parts of the building.

In the 16th century the Dome Pipe Organ inside was the largest in the world, but was destroyed in a fire in 1547. The current instrument has a marvellous carved wooden case and was installed by the Walcker Orgelbau company at the start of the 1880s with 6718 pipes.

11. Swedish Gate

In Medieval times Riga was protected by a mighty wall with 20 towers and a 90-metre-wide moat that would later be turned into the Pilsētas Kanāls.

Of the eight gates that used to control entry to the city the sole survivor is the Swedish Gate.

The reason this fragment has lasted to the 21st century is that it was turned into an apartment after becoming obsolete when the city’s bastions were built in the 17th century.

Its tenant was the city executioner, who according to tradition would lay a red rose on the window sill on the morning of an execution.

The stretch of wall along Torņa Street was restored during the Soviet occupation.

12. St Peter’s Church

The 123-metre tower of this Lutheran church is an integral part of Vecrīga’s silhouette.

St Peter’s Church was begun at the start of the 13th century, but had two more phases of construction in the 15th and 17th centuries, leaving it with a melange of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.

There isn’t much remaining of the earliest building, but you can find traces in the outer nave and on a few of the pillars.

Safe to say that the church’s tower had a difficult past: The initial 15th-century Gothic tower collapsed in 1660. Its replacement from 1690 was then brought down by lightning in 1721. And later the tower burnt down in the Second World War to be renovated in the 1960s.

During the last reconstruction an elevator was installed, taking you up to the second gallery at a height of 72 metres for the best view of Vecrīga.

13. Latvian National Opera and Ballet

Best experienced when the autditorium fills up for evening performances, the Latvian National Opera and Ballet is a Neoclassical theatre from 1863. The venue is older than the Latvian National Opera, which was founded as in situation in 1912 and had to wait until after the First World War to give its first performance, which was Wagner’s Flying Dutchman in 1919. The resplendent interiors were produced by the studio of August Volz, who also designed the Roland Statue and allegorical sculptures on the facade of the House of the Blackheads.

Culture-lovers can’t turn down a night of Faust, Die Fledermaus or Madame Butterfly, so check the listings when you’re in town and join the impeccably dressed throng.

A neat piece of trivia is that Wagner was the music director of the Deutsches Theater, the forerunner to the National Opera, for a couple of years in the late 1830s.

14. Art Nouveau Museum

Konstantīns Pēkšēns, one of the stars of Riga’s Art Nouveau movement, designed and lived in this building on Albert Street at the turn of the 20th century.

In 2009 his apartment’s interior was returned to its 1903 layout and decoration.

On the building’s facade look for the quirky motifs inspired by local wildlife, like pine cones, needles and squirrels.

The spiral stairway is a delight, with enthralling ceiling paintings composed by Latvia’s eminent painter of the day, Janis Rozentāls.

In the apartment you can step through the plush drawing room, decorated with floral patterns, and the dining room, lined with wooden panels.

There’s masterful furniture with flowing lines, dainty stained glass windows and beautiful tile-work, best seen on the kitchen floor.

15. Riga Motor Museum

The state-owned Riga Motor Museum reopened for business in 2016 after a three-year makeover.

If you have a thing for classic cars or are intrigued by Soviet artefact the museum is sure to hold your attention for an hour or two.

From the Soviet occupation you can see models by Volga, Moskvich and Zigouli, as well as a ZIS-115 armoured car designed for Josef Stalin, and a Lincoln Continental 53A Town Car gifted to Leonid Brezhnev by Nixon in the early 70s.

Look out for the replica of the Auto Union Racing Car Type D, built by the company that would later evolve into Audi.

Also from the West you can admire a Jaguar Mk. 2, a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith and a Mercedes-Benz 220 SE, all in tip-top condition.

16. Cat House

A building to be seen from the outside while you navigate Vecrīga, the Cat House is a Medieval-inspired Art Nouveau house on Meistaru Street.

It was drawn up by the architect Friedrich Scheffel for a wealthy Latvian merchant, and is named for the copper cats that stand on the corner turrets.

The story goes that these cats were designed with their backsides turned towards Riga’s House of the Great Guild because of a grudge held by the Latvian owner for not being allowed in the mostly German Great Guild.

After a court case cats were turned back the right way and the owner was admitted to the guild.

17. Vērmanes Garden

East of the Bastejkalna Parks and fronting the main building for the University of Latvia, the Vērmanes Garden is the second public garden in Riga.

It takes its name from Anna Gertrud Wöhrmann, a Prussian widow who contributed the land and funds for the park in the 1810s.

Previously this part of the city had been torched by the city in preparation for an attack by Napoleon that never came.

One of a few solemn monuments in the park is an obelisk in her honour, and this is accompanied by an elegant fountain representing the four seasons and a set of stone lions.

The park has formal gardens and exotic trees, playground for little ones, season cafes, people playing chess and an outdoor stage for music and dance performances in summer.

18. Nativity of Christ Cathedral

The cathedral for Riga’s Orthodox community is a stirring neo-Byzantine building begun in 1876 when Latvia was part of the Russian Empire.

You can’t miss that ostentatious golden central dome.

Tsar Alexander II donated the cathedral 12 bells, which required a separate belfry to be constructed.

These bells were melted down at the start of the 1960s under Soviet occupation when the cathedral became the Republic House of Knowledge.

At that time the dome was used as a planetarium, while the crucifixes were pulled down and invaluable iconostasis was destroyed.

Restoration work started at the end of the 1990s and continues today, helping the iconostasis and interior regain their previous splendour.

19. Museum of the Occupation

When this post was written the Museum of the Occupation, one of Riga’s top cultural attractions, was temporarily relocated to the former US Embassy building on Raiņa Bulvāris.

Drawing on a huge audiovisual archive and reserve of artefacts, the museum documents the often grim period from 1940-1991, when Latvia came under the yoke of the USSR, then the Nazis in the Second World War and then the USSR once more.

There are poignant but informative accounts of the hardships of Siberian gulags, purges of Latvian Nationalists after the Second World War and the deportation and murder of Jews in the Holocaust.

On Brīvības Street the sister attraction is devoted to the history of KGB Operations in Latvia, in a former KGB building with prison cells intact.

20. Latvian National Museum of Art

For an edifying introduction to 19th and 20th-century Latvian art head for the newly refurbished Latvian National Art Museum.

This striking Historicist hall was the work of the Baltic German architect Wilhelm Neumann and completed in 1905. At the time it was the first purpose-built museum venue in all of the Baltic States.

The museum was closed for most of this decade, becoming cultural touchstone for Riga since it reopened.

On two floors you can acquaint yourself with the stars of Latvian art, like the Expressionist Johans Valters, Art Nouveau artist Janis Rozentāls and the landscape painter Janis Rozentāls.

There are temporary exhibitions in the basement and you can go up to the roof terrace to survey the city.

21. Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

The Dome Cathedral chapter house is the venue for Latvia’s oldest museum.

The collection was started in the mid-18th century by the Riga doctor Nikolaus von Himsel.

After he passed away at a young age, his possessions were given to the city by his mother in 1773, and found a permanent home in the chapter house.

This monument’s architecture goes back to the 13th-century in the groin-vaulted gallery, while the regal Column Hall dates to 1778. The collection has been enriched down the years, and recalls each stage of Riga’s lifespan, like its time as a Hanseatic port in Middle Ages and the Polish and Swedish occupations of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Among the many fascinating objects are historic maps, navigational instruments, clothing, all kinds of everyday utensils, porcelain silver and antique engravings depicting the city.

22. Ethnographic Open Air Museum

This skansen-style museum is on the east bank of Lake Jugla, 30 minutes by car from the city centre.

It’s an attraction not to be missed if you want to learn more about Latvian culture.

Here, 118 traditional buildings from the four Latvian provinces have been transported to this site and carefully rebuilt.

The oldest dates back to the 1600s and the most recent is from the 1930s.

The museum is the only place in the country where you can contrast the cultural differences between the provinces of Kurzeme, Latgale, Vidzeme and Zemgale.

In these buildings you’ll get to know old-time methods of self-care at saunas, see example of traditional weaving, peruse an arsenal of tools for historic trades, make your own pottery, forge coins, taste classic Latvian cuisine and find out about Latvian seasonal celebrations.

Established back in 1824, the museum is in 87 hectares of pine forest and has cross-country ski trails in winter.

23. Town Musicians of Bremen

A fun diversion on Skārņu Street is the sculpture for the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the “Town Musicians of Bremen”. The story is about four ageing domestic animals, a donkey, dog, cat and cockerel, who fear that they’re about to be put down, so run away to Bremen to become musicians.

They never make it that far though, as on the way these cheeky critters scam a band of robbers and take over their house.

The monument in Riga, gifted by Bremen in 1990, is also believed to carry political undertones as a nod to Gorbachev’s Perestroika.

It’s supposed to be good luck to touch each animal’s face in sequence, and you can see where the bronze has been buffed up by millions of hands over the last 28 years.

24. Jūrmala

In summer you can catch a suburban train from Riga Central Station to the seaside resort of Jūrmala.

Services depart every 30 minutes on the Riga-Tukums line and take 30 minutes or so to reach their destination.

You’ll know why you made the trip when you arrive.

Jūrmala’s beach is 33 kilometres long and has pristine white quartzite sand, occasionally fronted by wooden Art Nouveau buildings.

Six of the bathing areas at Jūrmala are awarded the Blue Flag each year, and traced by mixed birch and pine forest.

It’s worth coming down outside the summer season, as you can hunt for pieces of amber washed up on the beach in spring and autumn.

Jūrmala was a getaway of choice for the Communist elite in the mid-20th century, and both Nikita Khrushchev and Leonid Brezhnev were regulars.

25. Riga Black Balsam

If there’s a souvenir that is Latvian through and through, it’s Black Balsam, a bitter but slightly sweet liqueur made in oak barrels.

Two million bottles are produced every year and exported to 30 countries.

The drink was formulated back in 1752 by the pharmacist Abraham Kunze, as a kind of restorative tonic.

A total of 24 berries, roots, herbs, flowers and essential oils go into each ceramic bottle of Black Balsam, and if you want to try it there’s a crazy amount of concoctions available.

Most of the time you’ll see it in cocktails, or as a mixer with vodka, schnapps or akvavit.

But people will also drink Black Balsam with coffee, tea, cold soft drinks, and even use it as a topping for ice cream.

25 Best Things to Do in Riga (Latvia):

• Art Nouveau Architecture
• Town Hall Square
• House of the Blackheads
• Albert Street
• Three Brothers
• Freedom Monument
• Bastejkalna Parks
• Riga Central Market
• Riga Cathedral
• Swedish Gate
• St Peter's Church
• Latvian National Opera and Ballet
• Art Nouveau Museum
• Riga Motor Museum
• Vērmanes Garden
• Nativity of Christ Cathedral
• Museum of the Occupation
• Latvian National Museum of Art
• Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation
• Ethnographic Open Air Museum
• Town Musicians of Bremen
• Riga Black Balsam

How to Spend 48 Hours in Riga: Best Things to Do and Eat

Last updated on July 23, 2024

Nestled halfway between Tallinn’s fairytale medieval Old Town and the quirky, hipster bars of Vilnius, Riga has slowly been making a name for itself as the perfect city break destination. Still, it was fairly low on my bucket list until the turbulent year of 2020, when most European countries closed their doors to tourists.

Once I started my travel research, I soon discovered that there was way more going on beneath the surface of Riga than it initially appears. Unfortunately, we had to put our plans on hold when Lithuania (where we were planning to go first) tightened their travel restrictions a few days before departure.

Fast forward to June 2022, when I was looking to get back on the road after a challenging first half of the year. With cheap flights and a ready itinerary still waiting for its turn, Riga seemed a logical choice. I feel like we managed to cover quite a lot of ground during the extended bank holiday weekend we spent in the capital of Latvia. Now, I want to share all the best things to do and see in Riga with you, so you can get a head start on planning your own trip!

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Where we stayed in Riga

Wellton riverside spa hotel.

Booking our accommodation in Riga was definitely the easy part. We had Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel * bookmarked for nearly 2 years. So, given that we planned this trip just one week in advance, it was subject only to availability.

There are 3 Wellton hotels to choose from – Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel *, Wellton Centrum Hotel & SPA *, and Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA *. They are all centrally located and within walking distance of each other. The main selling point for the Riverside location was its SPA facilities and the rooftop terrace directly overlooking the Daugava River. We’d booked the Standard room with breakfast, which cost us €276 for 3 nights.

The room had all the basic amenities we could have possibly needed, and I couldn’t fault a single thing about the breakfast buffet either. I think it was also the first breakfast buffet I’ve seen that had champagne, so I could already tell our trip was off to a great start. 😉 With an almost overwhelming choice of different breakfast foods, including some options that were freshly prepared on the spot, this was hands down one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve had to date!

What are the SPA facilities like at Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel?

Also included in our room rate was one 1.5-hour visit to the SPA. When choosing a time slot, the receptionist informed us about the time when children were no longer allowed in the SPA zone, which we greatly appreciated! I believe it was after 6 pm, but I’m not entirely sure now, so you’d have to double-check yourself. If you’re seeking complete peace and quiet, there’s also an option to pay extra for a visit to the private SPA area, which includes a jacuzzi, a salt sauna, and a relaxation area. Last year, this cost €35 for 1 person and €40 for 2.

After contemplating this option, we finally decided to use that money for some SPA treatments instead. We booked massages for both of us, followed by a milk bath with Latvian flowers for me and a beer bath for Mac. Unfortunately, we couldn’t have the massages at the same time. So, I let Mac go first while the receptionist kindly allowed me to enter the SPA zone earlier at no extra cost.

As I soaked in the jacuzzi, I came to the conclusion that the children didn’t bother me nearly as much as the intoxicated stag night attendees. 😉 Still, it was one of the most delightful SPA experiences I’ve had to date. It’s just a shame that the Hammam was closed when we visited, as I would have loved to try it. A little fun fact is that the underground SPA contains a fragment of medieval city fortification walls which miraculously survived to this day!

Best things to do in Riga

Riga old town.

The best way to get a feel for Riga is to wander around the Old Town area. With more Art Nouveau buildings than any other city in the world, it’ll give you plenty of structures to feast your eyes on, whether you’re an architecture buff or simply an admirer.

In the city centre alone, around one-third of all buildings were constructed in the Art Nouveau style. One of my favourite things to do in Riga was allowing myself to get lost in the streets, not knowing what I would find around the corner.

You can also see the oldest complex of dwelling houses named the Three Brothers. According to legend, they were built by three men from the same family between the 15th and late 17th centuries. During medieval times, Maza Pils Street, where they’re located, was on the outskirts of Riga and was inhabited by craftsmen. Nowadays, it houses the Latvian Museum of Architecture.

Apart from the buildings, you can also encounter different statues around Riga Old Town, including a random bronze armadillo. Perhaps the most well-known, though, is the Bremen Town Musicians statue. It’s based on a famous fairytale by the Brothers Grimm about 4 farm animals: a cat, a dog, a donkey, and a rooster. No longer deemed useful and mistreated by their owners, they decide to escape to Bremen and become musicians. On their journey to independence and freedom, they manage to outsmart a group of robbers and find themselves a new home.

Although I have visited Bremen several times, I hadn’t heard this heartwarming story before. If you enjoyed it as well, you’ll be happy to know that it’s not Riga’s only animal tale…

If you know me, you’ll know I’m a complete sucker for anything related to cats. So, the moment I heard about this place, it went straight to the top of my Riga bucket list.

While there are no actual felines at that address, this 20th-century building holds a paw-some story. According to legend, the owner was a wealthy Latvian trader who was excluded from the German-controlled Riga Tradesmen Guild. This would likely have limited his ability to do business in Riga and was a massive insult at the time.

Turns out, our trader had quite a cattitude. Targeting the people responsible for his dismissal or starting a rival organisation would’ve been too simple. Instead, he decided to express his contempt in the most petty way imaginable. He placed 2 cat figures with arched backs and tails turned towards the guildhouse on the roof of his home.

As you may have imagined, the Guild wasn’t too happy about cat butts pointing at their building. What followed was a lengthy court battle. As a result, the cats were turned around to face the house of the Great Guild, and the merchant was eventually admitted.

Even though you can only view the Cat House from the outside, it’s an unmissable spot on your tour of Riga. If anything, it can serve as inspiration in case you need to plot some revenge 😉

House of the Blackheads

While we’re on the topic of guild houses, another place you shouldn’t miss in Riga is the House of the Blackheads. It was constructed in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried male merchants, ship owners, and foreigners. Interestingly enough, the association remained active in Livonia, aka present-day Latvia and Estonia, until 1940. Two decades later, it was registered in Hamburg, where it continues to be active to this day! The area outside the House of the Blackheads also happens to be the site where the first decorated Christmas tree was erected back in 1510, kickstarting the famous tradition we’ve come to know and love.

The original building was bombed by the Germans in 1941, shortly after the launch of Operation Barbarossa. After the war, the Soviets destroyed whatever remained of the guild house, and it took five whole decades to rebuild it.

Today, this place houses a museum dedicated to the history of the guild, as well as commerce in Riga. At the time of our visit, the entrance fee was €7. Depending on your preferences, you can pretend to be a royal or a local dignitary inside one of the grand ballrooms. Historically, these rooms hosted a variety of lavish events, from classical music concerts featuring the likes of Richard Wagner to welcoming ceremonies for royal families and presidents.

It also temporarily served as the presidential residence between 2012 and 2016, and it’s possible to tour the historic cabinet. However, perhaps the most interesting area is the historical cellar, which was the only part of the original building that survived World War II. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the underground of Riga with authentic 14th-century fragments still in place!

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Right next to the House of the Blackheads, you can find the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. Latvia was under occupation for more than half of the 20th century – first by the USSR from 1940 to 1941, then by Nazi Germany between 1941 and 1944, and then by the USSR again from 1944 until 1991.

The new permanent exhibition finally opened on 1st June 2022 after undergoing reconstruction for 10 years, so we were glad we came to Riga just in time to see it! We paid €5 each, and it took us around an hour to explore the museum.

The exhibition begins by presenting the historical landscape in the years directly preceding Latvia’s occupation, and draws some parallels between that period and the events currently unfolding in the world. It then takes you on an interactive journey through the entire 51-year occupation period.

The best part is that you get to learn everything by following the adventures of a cuddly teddy bear named Miks. From the happy pre-occupation days to his capture, deportation, and even participation in the guerrilla war, I hurried through the stations as I was eager to find out if Miks would make a safe return home.

Click for a spoiler! Yes, Miks returns home safe and sound!

It’s a fantastic way to capture the attention of children, as well as anyone (like me!) who absorbs information better through hands-on experiences than by reading dry facts.

The museum does a great job of honouring the victims of the occupation, reminding people of the atrocities committed by certain foreign powers, and proving that history truly does repeat itself. I’d highly recommend it to anyone!

St. Peter’s Church

For the best 360° unobstructed view of Riga, head to the city’s tallest church. From its tower, you can admire the red roofs of the Old Town’s buildings or watch as ships enter the port on the Daugava River.

The opportunity to do so comes with a steep price, with entrance tickets costing €9 per person. An interesting fact is that the tower has been destroyed and reconstructed 3 times over the years, which could possibly explain the high fee. 😉 On a more serious note, though, I’d say the views from the top made it more than worth it!

If you choose to go, there are two main things to take into account. First, we saw a sign indicating that the elevator runs every 10 minutes, so depending on the season, the wait may be longer. And second, it is really cold and windy up there, so be sure to layer up!

Modes Muzejs – Riga’s Fashion Museum

Fellow fashion enthusiasts will also be happy to know that Riga has its own private fashion museum! In addition to the permanent display, there are also temporary exhibitions that change twice a year. We visited the day after the new Masterpieces of Fashion exhibition opened, showcasing the evolution of fashion over the centuries. If you’d like to read more about our experience, check out the blog post about our visit to Riga’s Fashion Museum !

Art Nouveau Centre

If you want to see the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Riga, head to Albert Street. It also houses the only museum in the Baltic States dedicated to the history of the Art Nouveau movement. It’s located in the building on Alberta iela 12, which was built as a private house of a noted Latvian architect, Konstantīns Pēkšēns, back in 1903. By recreating an authentic interior of an Art Nouveau flat, the museum paints a full picture of the everyday life of Riga’s inhabitants in the early 20th century and preserves the movement’s heritage.

The ticket price is currently €5 in the winter season and €9 in the summer season. You can also pay extra for a guided tour. However, you don’t actually have to pay the entrance fee to admire the building’s stunning ornamented spiral staircase. We just made sure to visit during the museum’s opening hours to make sure someone would let us in. Once inside the building, we had it pretty much to ourselves and spent at least 30 minutes taking in the views!

Riga Central Market

If you want to feel the city’s true spirit, head to Riga’s Central Market for a unique shopping experience. Housed inside 5 old German Zeppelin hangars, you can choose from over 3,000 market stands that are sure to satisfy your foodie needs. Each of the pavilions has its own category, from fresh produce, dairy, fish, and meat to local delicacies such as pickles, smoked eel, or lampreys in jelly. You’re truly able to find anything your heart desires.

When it was first constructed, it was actually the largest and most modern market in Europe. With supermarkets on the rise, its role has slightly changed over the years. It’s now mostly seen as a go-to place for affordable shopping, but it remains hugely popular, with some sources estimating the average number of daily visitors to be anywhere between 80,000 and 100,000!

National Library of Latvia

If you hang around the Old Town area, you might notice a big mountain-like structure on the other side of the river. It houses the National Library of Latvia, an absolute must-see place regardless of whether you’re a bookworm or not.

The library is free to enter – you just need to leave any bags in the lockers downstairs and ask for a visitor’s pass at reception. Right in the center of the building, there’s an open space where you can see the People’s Bookshelf spanning across several floors. It’s where they store all books that people have donated to the library. The collection currently includes nearly 7,000 books in 50 different languages!

Anyone can donate a book that holds a special place in their heart. If you choose to do so, you must add a personal note on the title page explaining why you selected that particular book. Without it, they won’t accept your donation. Apparently, you can access any of these books by ordering them through the library’s website. I can only imagine the stories contained within these walls! For the best view of the shelves, you should head to the 3rd floor.

We read that on Saturdays, there’s also an option to watch the panorama of Riga from the viewing platform on the top floors. Unfortunately, the lady at reception told us it was closed on the day of our visit, which was a real shame.

Holy Trinity Orthodox Church

Mac and I have a little tradition whenever we travel – I take him to fashion museums, and in return, he takes me to football games 😉 On our way to the stadium, we decided to make a little detour because I wanted to see this beautiful pink Orthodox Church. It’s slightly further away from the city centre, but you can combine it with a visit to the National Library of Latvia.

I highly recommend walking there, as you can spot some unique examples of Latvian architecture along the way. We also saw some cute cafés and restaurants in the area, so you can definitely make an afternoon trip out of it!

Where to eat in Riga

As I was doing my research ahead of our trip, I came across an article that called Lido Latvia’s most loved food chain – and I totally see why! It’s apparently as close to dining at a local’s house as it gets. Lido ended up being a regular spot for us too, and for good reason.

You can find Lido restaurants scattered throughout the city. They operate on a buffet concept where you select from a variety of hearty Latvian dishes and pay at the counter. The Aperitivo dispenser unlocked a new dream (Does anyone know where I can get one? Asking for a friend 😉 ) , while their soljanka is something I still think about to this day.

As with all buffet-style restaurants that aren’t the all-you-can-eat type, there’s always the risk of getting a little carried away and paying the price (both literally and figuratively) . But as long as you exercise moderation, it’s the best place for greasy comfort food at affordable prices!

Street Burgers

After visiting Lido at least three times (and no, I’m not exaggerating) , we decided it was time to try something new. It’s no secret that burgers are my go-to option, so Street Burgers immediately caught our attention. They offer more than 20 different types of burgers to choose from, including vegetarian and vegan options. They make all of their burgers using the highest-quality local ingredients, and there are plenty of craft beer and soft drink options to wash it all down with.

Mac went for their deer burger with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, caramelised onions, tomato, chives, and garlic sauce, all in their signature baked black burger bun. My burger of choice was their veggie burger with a breaded cheese patty, tomato, spinach, pesto, and garlic sauce. They had a promo offer, so my burger with a side of fries and a drink only cost €11.30. I dare say it was one of the best burgers I’ve tried. So, if you’re looking for a quick bite on a budget, this is the place to go in Riga!

Crumble Cake

We stumbled upon this place completely by accident. The café we had originally planned to visit turned out to be closed, despite Google saying it should be open. So, we decided to go right across the street instead, and we did not regret it one bit.

As we praised the cake on our way out, the barista responded with, “That’s because we use a special ingredient – love,” and I think that sums up the place perfectly. From the beautiful vintage-looking crockery and decor to the array of homemade cakes, it gives you that warm fuzzy feeling, like visiting your grandma. And with the most expensive cake costing €4.40 per slice and coffee prices ranging between €2.30 and €4.60, it won’t burn a hole in your pocket either.

In the evenings, you can also indulge in a selection of handcrafted spirits, countryside apple cider, and cocktails made with Latvian handcrafted gin. It’s true what they say about one person’s loss being another person’s gain, as Riga’s Crumble Cake gained two fans that morning 😉

That brings us to the end of my Riga guide! From the moment we arrived, the city kept surprising me in so many ways. At first, it had us wondering if we’d somehow got on the wrong plane and landed in Warsaw instead… until we spotted what looked like a replica of the Tokyo Tower on the horizon.

But what perhaps surprised me the most was how much I ended up liking the city. I’ve heard people say there isn’t much to do, but it was a great reminder that you don’t need a packed itinerary to have a great city break! We’ll definitely be back – it’s just a matter of when…

Would you consider Riga as your next city break destination?

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The Local’s Guide to Riga: Read This Before You Go

• 11 Comments
• by Kaspars Misins
• Best Things to Do , Latvia , Travel Tips
• 08/06/2020 15/04/2024

This article may contain compensated links. Learn more in our disclaimer .

Are you thinking about traveling to Riga? If the answer is yes – then you are at the right place, because here I am going to share with you some of the most important and at the same time basic things that you should know before going on this trip.

Riga is the capital of Latvia . And as you probably know – you are reading these lines on a blog We Are From Latvia. Yes, we two, founders of this blog, are from Latvia. How obvious! Una is from Riga. But I was born in a small town at the East of Latvia, not far from the border between Latvia and Russia. But then I moved to Riga to study there. And for the last 8 years, before we two started to travel extensively, I called Riga my home.

Riga is also Latvia’s largest city both by population and territory. About one third of Latvia’s population – more than 600 000 people – is living in Riga. And by territory Riga is three times larger than Paris.

RELATED: Why You Should Visit Riga? These Travel Bloggers Will Tell You

Table of Contents

Riga International Airport Is the Only International Airport in Latvia

If you are traveling to Riga/Latvia by plane Riga International Airport is where you will arrive. It’s the only international airport in Latvia. Anyway it’s modern, nice and clean airport. Not too big, but not tiny either. In total at the end of summer 2016 20 airlines were operating from Riga International Airport. And several budget airlines, like Ryanair, WizzAir, Vueling and Norwegian are operating from here as well.

Getting from Riga International Airport to Riga city center is possible by public bus, number 22. It has a stop few hundred meters away from the airport’s entrance. Once you are out of the airport, go to the right!

Bus ticket in Riga costs 1,15 EUR , if you purchase it in advance from a ticket vending machine, and 2 EUR- if you buy it from the driver.

At the airport there is ticket vending machine just at the bus stop. And you can pay with your bank card there as well. Another option is to buy a ticket from a shop called Narvesen, which you can find inside the Riga International airport.

For up to date information about tickets and fees check out the website of Riga public transport company !

Many People in Riga Speak English

More than half of Latvians speak 3 languages – Latvian, English and Russian. These numbers are even higher in Riga. Even though many people in Latvia, especially in Riga, speak English, there are many situations possible where you will find information only in Latvian. For example, in public transport they announce the next stop only in Latvian.

But don’t worry, if there will be such a necessity, in Riga it’s not a problem to find some English speaking person and ask for a help or advice.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: For travelers to Latvia we recommend  World Nomads Explorer Package!

Public Transportation in Riga: Trams Are the Fastest

In Riga there are buses, trams, trolleybuses and minibuses. Fastest ones usually are trams, because they are running on the rails and so mostly they aren’t affected by the traffic on the roads.

There is one type of ticket for all public transports in Riga, and it’s called “e-talons”. If you buy a ticket in advance, single journey on a public transport in Riga costs 1,15 EUR . 2 EUR – if you buy it from a driver. But remember, that one ticket can be used only for one transport (one vehicle). Which means, if you need to travel 3 stops by one bus and then 2 stops by another, then you will need to buy 2 tickets. There is no such thing as an option to use the same ticket for different transports within some time frame.

If you plan to travel around Riga by public transport, buy a 24 hour ticket. 24 hour public transport ticket in Riga costs only 5 EUR. And with it you can travel with all buses, trams, trolleybuses and also minibuses (but only ones operated by Riga public transport company – Rīgas Satiksme).

Old Town of Riga (Vecrīga) Is the Most Central Part of Riga

And the most convenient one from where to go everywhere.

Old town of Riga is packed with hotels, hostels, bars and restaurants. It’s the most beautiful and also most central part of the city, which makes it the best choice as where to stay while you are in Riga. Especially if you are coming just for few days and you want to be in the best possible location . Central train station and central bus station of Riga are both only 5-10 minute walk away from there.

Bus number 22, going from Riga city center to airport and vice versa, stops near old town of Riga.

To find a hotel or hostel in Riga go to  booking.com and  Hostelworld.com .

Do check out also Airbnb , if you want to stay in an apartment instead and live like a local in Riga! Register using my Airbnb link and you will get a discount for your next booking. We will get a discount, too. We use Airbnb since 2012.

Latvian Food is Quite Heavy

Few of the places where to try a Latvian cuisine when you are traveling to Riga include Ala Folk Club, Lido restaurants and Silkites & Dillites . They are serving mostly, if not only, Latvian dishes. So you can’t go wrong ordering just anything.

Few of Latvian dishes that I can recommend you to try  – mashed potatoes with cottage cheese and herring (kartupeļu biezenis ar biezpienu un siļķi), cold beet root soup (aukstā biešu zupa) or any other cold soup, if you are traveling to Riga in summer, grey peas and speck (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) and pork in aspic (cūkgaļas galerts).

From drinks try Latvian beer, Riga Black balsam and kvass! Valmiermuiža and Brenguļu are two of the best of Latvian beers.

Where to Go and What to Do in Riga

When searching for beautiful architecture head to old town of Riga (Vecrīga) or wander the streets not far from it, but on the same coast of river Daugava. You can’t cross Daugava without noticing it, don’t worry!

For beautiful wooden architecture head to Agenskalns (Āgenskalns) on the other side of Daugava river.

Walking the narrow streets of old town of Riga, passing big churches and countless old looking buildings it’s easy to start feeling like you have traveled back in time. Old town of Riga is also the place where the nightlife happens .

Looking for some more peaceful place and not far from the city center, go to Lucavsala . It’s an island in river Daugava, few bus stops from the old town. A little bit further from the Riga city center, but still easily accessible, is Mežaparks . It’s a big park by the lake, which is perfect place for longer walks. Take a tram number 11 – its route starts close to old town of Riga – and go  until the very last stop, which is called Mežaparks.

Riga is close to the sea.

Nearest beaches are at Vecāķi and Vakarbuļļi. To get to Vecāķi you will need to take a bus number 24, and get out either at Vecāķu prospekts or at the last stop – Mangaļsala. Vakarbuļļi can be reached by bus number 3, following a route Pļavnieki – Daugavgrīva – Vakarbuļļi. You need to get out at the last stop.

Are you looking for some more things to do in Riga? Need a guide? Check out these tours and this list of activities !

If you still have some questions about traveling in Latvia, contact us!

Disclosure: some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means – if you choose to book accommodation through these links, we may earn a small commission. This has no effect on the price for you.

11 thoughts on “The Local’s Guide to Riga: Read This Before You Go”

I am looking for someone to spend about six hours with me and three adult grandchildren in Riga on Monday June 18. We would like to see the city and the surrounding area. Let me know if you are available to guide us and what the cost of your services would be.

Hi, Tom! I’ll send your email to good friend of mine, a tour guide. If he will be available he will get back to you in next 3-5 days.

Watch out for scams

This is excellent to know about and full of some of the questions I have first! My husband and I may be coming to live there for three years, so it is nice to have a point of contact to be given ideas of who would be a helpful reference depending on what we may need. Thanks Kaspars and Una, simple enough for the basic content everyone needs to get started :)

When you’ll have some more questions, you can get in touch with us :) We ourseles mostly aren’t in Riga lately, but we may give you some contacts

Guys, thank you so much for putting all this information together. We visited Riga recently and we had the most amazing time due to the fact that we followed your advice. Keep up the good work guys. ❤?

Our pleasure! We are glad that this information helped you :)

Looking forward to visiting this year and thanks for this post as it is so informative. We love walking to see the sights of a city and this guide will help planning our trip.

Enjoy your trip to Latvia :)

Be warned that, even if you are pleasant and respectful people, other less pleasant and respectful people have been here before you and so you will be judged according to the locals’ experiences with them.  Any large groups who are drunk and loud are going to run the risk of being ‘tarred with the same brush’.  Unfortunately you will have to prove that you are harmless and ‘come in peace’ – the people who you meet are not going to assume this from the outset. Try to avoid drawing attention to yourself unnecessarily.  Matching T-shirts saying something like ‘Brits on the P*** – Riga 2007’, fancy dress, kilts, comedy hats, wigs, etc. are less likely to perceived as being a sign of your wit and originality, but rather more as a sign of disrespect to the city and its inhabitants and that you 00004000 are going to behave in the same fashion as the other people wearing similar outfits who have been coming to Riga for the past three years.

Hi wearefromlatvia;

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A travel guide for Riga, Latvia

Updated On 19th June, 2024

Latvia is a mystery to many, and not the first place on many Europe bucket lists . However, Riga is one of Europe’s hidden gems , and in this Riga travel guide I’m going to share my favourite things to do in Latvia, places to visit in Riga, and top tips for visiting Riga! While you may have never considered visiting Riga before, keep reading and hopefully I can change your mind.

Latvia took me by surprise and it’s such an incredible destination to explore. If you’re the type of traveller who loves old towns, cobbled streets, buildings and history, or maybe you are just looking for a brand new place to explore… Riga delivers. There are so many cool things to do in Riga; you cannot miss this city if you’re travelling in Eastern Europe. In fact, I’d go as far as saying that it’s one of the best capital cities to visit in Europe. 

What makes Riga so special you may ask? Riga is set in the Baltic Sea and is known for its white sandy beaches, wooden colourful houses, old historic buildings, flowers and everything art. One thing I definitely noticed during my visit, was the locals were super friendly and spend a lot of time together on the beaches, eating delicious food and they certainly love to dance! 

Whether it’s the culture and museums or a relaxing break from your everyday life, Riga has everything you could possibly want from a weekend away in Europe . From wandering around Riga’s Old Town to sightseeing on the River Daugava, or from hiking in Gauja National Park to getting the adrenaline pumping on a mountain bike tour… there are plenty of things to do in Riga that will keep you busy during your stay! 

In terms of the weather in Riga, the hottest months are June-August, where the temperature is usually in the early 20s (degrees Celsius). Autumn and Spring are fairly mild, but winter (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping below zero. 

Keep reading to see more about this city in my Riga travel guide and all the fun things to do in Riga that you should add to your Latvia bucket list! 

Other blog posts you might find useful…

• A complete guide to Tallinn, Estonia
• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• The best things to do in Moscow
• Christmas markets in Europe road trip itinerary
• The best things to do in Europe
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide

Where is Riga? How to get to Riga?

If you’re wondering ‘where is Riga?’ or ‘how to get to Riga’, then you’re in the right place. Latvia, one of the Baltic States, borders Russia, Estonia, Lithuania and Belarus. In the heart of Latvia, there’s Riga! Riga is the capital of Latvia, and also one of the country’s largest cities.

Flights to Riga are usually super cheap and affordable. Most flights to Riga from the UK are with Ryanair or Air Baltic, with budget-friendly prices normally being between £40 – £100, so it’s a perfect candidate for a short trip or weekend away for anyone  travelling on a budget !

Depending on where you are travelling from, a flight from the UK to Riga (RIX) is about 2hr 30 minutes. You can also fly to Riga from many international airports across Europe and around the world! 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Riga on Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

Getting around Riga… 

From Riga’s international airport you can hop on one of the many means of transport they have to offer. You can take the bus, hail a taxi (which you can pre-book in advance) or get a ticket for one of the trolleybuses. Find out more and book your Riga airport transfer here. 

Bear in mind that when travelling by taxi in Riga, a small tip of around 10% is usually expected through a kind gesture and appreciation.

Transport fare prices are very reasonably priced. You can pay as little as 5 EUR for a 24 hour day pass which can be used on all buses, trams and trolleybuses. Bargain!

If you prefer to find your way around a city yourself, there are bicycle hires in Riga. Pick up a local map and the locals will be more than happy to help. However, please be aware of the fast local drivers.

See more ways to keep active while you’re travelling here. 

Where to stay in Riga?

Riga is full of different types of accommodation, offering whatever you’re looking for. If you’re wondering where to stay in Riga, there’s everything from luxury spa hotels to budget-friendly hostels and everything in between! 

Check  Airbnb  for apartments and rooms in Riga. 

Check out  booking.com  to find lots of hotels and hostels in Riga. 

In terms of where to stay in Riga, in this Riga travel guide I’m also going to share my insight into the best areas to stay in in Riga… 

Old Town Riga

Stay in the Old Town in Riga if you want to be in the centre of the city, in amongst all the culture. I spent my first night here and loved it! 

The hotel we stayed at was Monika Centrum Hotel , facing right opposite a local park and within walking distance to the town centre. Some more of the best hotels in Riga Old Town are Grand Poet by Semarah , Pullman Riga , and there are also hostels in Riga Old Town like Tree House Hostel.

If you want to spend time by a beachside location then Jurmala is the perfect place to stay in Riga for you!

In Jurmala I stayed at Hotel Jumala Spa . This hotel is incredible , located near the beachfront whilst surrounded by forest trees, beautiful cafés, restaurants and shops.

Whilst we were here we spent time in the hotel spa with an impressive amount of 6 different saunas ranging at different temperatures. It’s in the perfect location for spending time on the beach and taking evening walks alongside the sand to watch the sunset with the locals.

Example prices in Riga:

(As of Sept 2021)

Is Riga expensive? How much to budget for Riga?…

Riga isn’t expensive and I found it very similar to the UK for prices. You can pay using your bank card or Euros. In this Riga travel guide I’ve included some examples of what I spent in Riga to give you an idea…

• For a standard average hotel price, you can pay €40 – €80 a night.
• A bottle of water €1.5 (depending on the size and brand)
• You can pick up a pint of beer for €3
• A stop at the local cafés, coffee will be €2.50 – €3.50
• A main meal in Riga can cost between €9 and €18, also depending on where you eat and which restaurant you stop at.

My favourite places to eat in Riga:

Without a doubt, Riga is full of delicious food to enjoy!

In the Old Town and the other main areas in Riga, the streets are filled with unique restaurants and cafes. One of the best things to do in Riga is to spend some time walking down the little cobbled streets to come across the lesser known restaurants! This is where I came across many small hidden cafes.

Two of my favourite cafes in Riga were Miit Coffee and Rocket Bean Roastery.

If you’re currently sitting there thinking, but what food does Riga have? Will I be able to eat anything? Latvian food has so many options including traditional soups, bread & pastries, cold meats, cheese and olives, as well as international dishes such as pasta, pizza, burgers and kebabs. You won’t go hungry. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry.. they have so many options for you, such as risottos, veggie soups, potato dishes and dairy-free milk too.

One of my favourite restaurants in Latvia was an outdoor restaurant called Colonel Brew Kitchen. It’s right in the centre of the town square with local music.

One more thing for this part of the Riga travel guide… you can not leave Latvia without trying out the Black Balsam, a traditional alcohol that is found all over Riga, in restaurants, bars and shops. Warning! Be careful with how many you have, it’s on the stronger side, with a high alcohol content of 45%. 

The best things to do in Riga: A Riga travel guide

1. jump on the river boat..

One of the best things to do in Riga is to see the city from the water! You can journey out along the canal and make your way to the River Daugava for more sightseeing opportunities. You can do this trip with Riga by Canal.  For an adult fare this will cost €13.

2. Hike in Gauja National Park.

This was one place I had on my list but didn’t get around to doing but believe it’s definitely worth visiting. It’s got to be one of the best places to visit in Riga and hiking here should be on your Riga bucket list! The Gauja National Park is known as the Switzerland of Latvia.

You will be able to witness the breathtaking scenic views, one of the biggest caves (Gutman Cave), ancient historical sites/manor and free to adventure along the trails and hike to get to the best views.

Make sure you take your camera! And comfortable walking shoes or boots. You don’t want to miss out on one of the best things to do in Riga because you weren’t prepared! 

Check out my hiking top tips here. 

3. Find a Tour Guide to uncover the history.

The best way to find out all the local history is from the locals themselves.

If you want to know all the history of this country then I believe a tour guide is your best option. Walking tours in a town are great if you’re short on time, start in different locations of the city depending on what you want to experience. You can choose anything from food & wine tours, old town walking tours, heritage history and if you don’t fancy walking, you can even hop-on the red buses.

When I first visited Riga, I went on a history walking tour with some locals to get to know all about the city, to soak up all their local knowledge and recommendations, and to recognise the pride they have for the city they live in. This was definitely one of my best things to do in Riga! 

You can book a walking tour where they will take you around the town, seeing all the buildings, churches, the many museums and places you may not have ventured to on your own.

A few of the best walking tours in Riga to look out for: House Of Blackheads built in 1334, Freedom Monument and Rigas Christ Cathedral. 

4. Do an ATV Safari or Quad bike tour.

If you’re feeling really adventurous and you’re looking for things to do in Riga that will get the adrenaline pumping, book onto a ATV Safari or Quad Biking day trip. This will take you out of the city and onto the hills, which means it’s time to have fun!

Your tour will be full of off road driving, dirt tracks and the beauty of the outdoors.

The tours are 2 hours to half-day duration, pricing from £80 per adult. There are several companies that offer these tours, so shop around and see what suits you money and time wise! 

5. Go skiing or snowboarding in Riga.

Although Latvia is not full of mountains, one of the best things to do in Riga is to enjoy the winter sports available there such as skiing and snowboarding. Latvia surprisingly has a range of slopes and hills for both skiing and snowboarding in most districts.

So, if you’re a big fan of this sport or fancy daring yourself to try something new, then hit the slopes for some downhill adrenaline.

6. Explore the Old Town in Riga.

One of the top things to do in Riga is to visit the Old Town. You will venture down the cobbled paths where the streets are filled with markets to entice you in (which they certainly do), many restaurants and cafes for your choice and often live music will be playing along the streets with live performances.

Make sure you admire the architecture in the Old Town as you wander around Riga too. From visiting the Thee Brothers or the House of Blackheads, to seeing many of the wonderful churches, there are plenty of places to visit in Riga that will catch your eye! 

7. Hit the beach in Riga.

The beaches in Riga are all without a doubt stunning! White sand, clear water and overlooked with big trees in the distance.

You will find the beaches have small bars with shelter, chairs and places to eat. Some even have activities taking place for children to join in with. One of the best things to do in Riga is to have a beach day!

The beaches in Riga have a friendly and fun atmosphere for all family and friends. A few favourites would be Jurmalas Beach, Ritabulli beach and Vecāķu pludmale.

8. Enjoy the artwork in Riga.

One of the top things to do in Riga is to enjoy the art and creative energy in this European capital city . From the Art Nouveau District to art galleries and museums, Riga is one of the most creative cities I have visited. If you’re looking for free things to do in Riga, be sure to visit LOW, a space dedicated to up and coming artists in Latvia. 

9. Explore the markets in Riga.

Markets around Riga are open all year round and are one of the main attractions for people when visiting. One of the best things to do in Riga is to try and find souvenirs here to take home. You can find anything from food & drink, artwork and music. Some include Riga Central Market, Riga’s Christmas Market and Kalnciema Street Market.

See my Christmas market road trip in Europe here.  Is there anything else you’d add to this Riga travel guide?

Where are your favourite things to do in Riga? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Best Riga 3 Days Itinerary: Exploring ‘Paris of the North’

Riga; with its stunning historical centre and beautiful architecture it’s no secret as to why Latvia’s capital is dubbed ‘Paris of the North’ and a perfect destination for a short city break. The city centre is relatively compact, so this Riga 3 days itinerary will cover all the highlights at a comfortable pace.

With 3 days in Riga, you’ll have plenty of time to experience the charm of the medieval Old City, explore the labyrinth of cute cobblestone streets and alleyways, admire the intricate architecture of the art nouveau district (Riga is actually the Art Nouveau capital of Europe!), as well as visit a couple of places just outside of the city.

This Riga 3 day itinerary covers everything you’ll need to know, including the top things to do in Riga, where to stay and how to get around. I’ve also included some handy insider tips and information to help you get the best out of your Riga trip.

Some of the links on Meet Me In Departures are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

Riga 3 days itinerary

This three days in Riga itinerary is divided into sections.

The first section gives you a glance at what to see in Riga Old Town followed by a detailed breakdown of each day.

In the final section, you’ll find FAQs that answer things like when to visit Riga, the best area in Riga to stay and useful hints on getting around and free stuff to do.

Best Things to See in Riga

House of the blackheads, st peter’s church & tower.

• The Konventa Se

Līvu Square

Riga dome cathedral & dome square.

• Art Nouveau District
• Powder Tower, Jacob’s Barracks & The Swedish Gate
• The Three Brothers

Riga Central Market

• Freedom Monument

…and of course, drink Riga Black Balsam

3 Days Riga Itinerary

Whether you’re planning a quick 3 days in Latvia (of which I highly suggest you spend at least one day in Riga), a romantic city break or you’re visiting Riga as part of a longer trip around the Baltic states , then this Riga city guide is a great place to start.

what to see in Riga in 3 days – Day-by-Day Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do in Riga. If you have 4 days in Riga, you could either do this itinerary at a more leisurely pace or pick a couple of day trips from the city.

Although this is a packed guide, it will allow you to see the best of Riga in a relatively short time.

Here’s what my Riga suggested itinerary for 3 days looks like:

Day 1 – Visit Riga’s most iconic landmarks, including the House of the Blackheads and St Peter’s Church & Tower. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the cobbled streets around The Konventa Se. Discover where the old city walls once stood at Powder Tower, Jacob’s Barracks and the Swedish Gate.

Day 2 – Marvel at the intricate and ornate Art Nouveau buildings in Riga’s Art Nouveau district . Taste delicious local produce in Europe’s biggest food market. Explore Riga’s green spaces and take a boat ride on the river to see the city from a different perspective. Learn about the city’s history in the Jewish District.

Day 3 – Head just outside the city and discover Gauja National Park and the stunning castles and adventure sports or head to Jurmala Beach and enjoy the white sandy beaches.

A bit about Riga, Latvia

Before I set off to Riga as part of a trip around the Baltic states , I was asked by some people ‘is Riga worth visiting?’ , I was asked similar questions about the rest of this region.

But in answer to that question; yes!

True, Latvia, as a country, isn’t as established as other European destinations , this is mostly due to the nation being under soviet rule until 1991. Riga is an outstanding city for so many reasons, which you’ll find out about in this article. 

• Latvia has progressed quickly since gaining independence, so much so that Riga was voted the European Capital of Culture in 2014. The Latvian capital is quickly creeping up to be one of the must-see cities in northern Europe. 
• There has been a settlement in this location since the 2nd century, although the official founding of the city of Riga was in 1201.
• Riga has had a tumultuous history, after initially being under German rule, then during the 16th century, under the reign of the Polish. In the 17th century the Swedes and then the Russians in the 18th. Each of these eras left its mark, which is evident in the medieval old town centre and the surrounding areas.
• Riga has such an important smorgasbord of culture, that Riga’s centre and the surrounds became a designated UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.
• How did the name Riga: Paris of the North come about? This was down to a British author called Graham Greene. He affectionately gave Latvia’s capital the name because of the beautiful architecture, its thriving art scene, as well as cafés and eateries, likened to the ones in Paris.

Related Article: 23 Outstanding Places in the Baltic States

Riga in 3 days – Your complete 3 days in Riga itinerary

Although full-on, it’s the perfect way to experience some of the city’s most iconic attractions. If you’re wondering about the top Riga things to do, then read on.

This is the best Riga itinerary for seeing a lot in a short space of time.

riga itinerary 3 days Guide – Day 1

Today you’ll experience some of the top things to do in Riga immersing yourself in history as you explore the cobbled streets of the the UNESCO heritage-listed centre.

Start in the heart of Old Town Riga, where you’ll explore some of the oldest buildings in the city.

Town Hall Square

Start the first day of your Riga 3 days itinerary in Ratslaukumus, also known as Riga Town Hall Square. This is the birthplace of Riga, was founded in 1201, and should be on the top of your Riga must-see places list.

Throughout its history, the Ratslaukumus has survived invasions from other countries, the great fire of 1350 and bombings from World War II. The heart of Riga has been rebuilt countless times and is just as important today as it’s always been. 

In the centre of the Town Hall Square, there’s a statue of St Roland wielding a sword, surrounding the square you’ll see the Town Square and the river Daugava.

Probably the most prominent of the buildings at the Ratslaukumus is the colourful House of the Blackheads , this is where you’re headed to next.

👉 Travel Tip: If you’re interested in seeing all the best places in Riga, finding out more about the history and doing it in the most efficient time possible, then you might want to book a private guided tour of Riga .

⌛ Time Here: 30 minutes

⌚ Opening Times : 24 hours

📍 Address: Rātslaukums, Centra rajons, Rīga

The outside of this building is absolutely beautiful, and one of the top places to see in Riga. Historically, Riga was a port of call for merchants and their ships who travelled from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea.

These merchants held important meetings as well as elaborate banquet meetings at ornate Baroque-style headquarters known as the House of the Blackheads . 

This iconic Riga building dates back to 1334 however, what you see today is a rebuild. It was destroyed during the Second World War (except for a 14th-century cellar, that miraculously survived).

Between 1995 and 1999 the building went under major reconstruction and renovations. This included the creation of replica furniture and paintings to bring the building back to its former glory. So, although what you see today isn’t technically the original building, it’s tough to believe it.

Honestly, the House of the Blackheads is one of the prettiest buildings in Riga Old Town and one of the most photographed spots in the city.

👉 Travel Tip: The building also houses Latvia’s silver collection as well as a tourist information centre. It also hosts a range of gigs and concerts! It’s certainly worthwhile checking out if there are any gigs on during your 3 days in Riga.

⌛ Time Here: 1 hour

⌚ Opening Times : Open Daily from 10.00 – 17.00 | Saturday 10.00 – 16.00 | Tuesday 10.00 – 15.00

📍 Address: Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga

From Town Hall Square, look upwards, you’ll be able to see the iconic bulbous spire of St Peters Church. Head up the hill towards it.

No Riga 3 days itinerary would be complete without visiting this church. St Peter’s Church is the most famous in Riga and if you’ve seen any postcards of the city, this church is sure to feature on them.

If you look at the structure of the church, you’ll probably notice it’s in a mishmash of styles featuring Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque all melded together to create one of Riga’s most instantly recognisable landmarks. Going up this recognisable tower is a must for your Riga bucket list.

The church was originally built in 1209 and was pretty much the only building that remained standing after the great Riga fire in 1350. This also makes it one of the oldest buildings in the city!

The clock tower is over 120 metres high and the top can be reached either by the lift or by climbing the stairs. The view from the top looks out over Old Riga and the Daugava River – get your cameras ready – it’s a fabulous view of beautiful Riga!

After visiting the inside of St Peter’s Church, and climbing the tower, exit the building and wander around to the side. Here you’ll find a monument called ‘Bremen Town Musicians’.

The statue is of four animals; a donkey at the bottom, a dog, a cat and finally a cockerel on top. It’s based on a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm and is one of the most popular monuments in Riga’s Old Town.

👉 Interesting Fact: Wondering why they’ve got shiny noses? It’s supposed to bring good fortune if you rub the noses of each of the animals. You’ll probably see hordes of tourists trying to do this. The amount of rubbing has made the noses go shiny, if you’re feeling super energetic then try to jump up and rub the rooster’s beak, this is supposed to bring a bonus bit of luck!

⌚ Opening Times : Sunday to Thursday 10.00 – 18.00 | Friday and Saturday 10.00 – 22.00

📍 Address: Reformācijas Laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga

The Konventa Seta

From the statue, your Riga itinerary continues down a little alley. Not far from the statues, you’ll see a little archway, head through it and it will lead you to the very Insta-worthy enclosure of Konventa Seta, or the Convent Yard.

Like St Peters Church, this little area originates from the 13th century and is another of the oldest parts of Riga.

This courtyard and the alleyways heading off from it make up a super cute area of Riga Old Town. If you have the time and looking for a spontaneous thing to do in Riga, then it’s certainly worthwhile exploring and getting lost in the ancient narrow cobbled streets of the UNESCO World Heritage city.

👉 Travel Tip: I highly recommend spending some time purposely getting lost here. Wander the passages dotted with charming colourful little houses is a must during your 3 days in Riga.

📍 Address: Konventa Seta and the streets surrounding Centra rajons, Rīga

From the quaint alleyways meander your way along to Livu Square. This is one of the livelier areas in Riga with a string of restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as well-manicured flower beds and colourful buildings.

You’ll have to use your imagination quite a bit, but this square once was the site of the Riga River up until the 16th century. The river eventually became narrower and was redirected. If you look carefully at the flowers in the summer, you’ll be able to see they form wave shapes to represent the lost river.

The square also used to have more buildings but these were destroyed in World War II. In the 1950s the area was redeveloped and made into an open public plaza that you see today.

👉 Travel Tip: I recommend stopping off here for something to eat. There are loads of places to choose from. If you’re a fan of daytime drinking, then I recommend trying the Black Balsam. You can drink it straight or mix it with a cocktail. Livu Square is also one of the best places in Riga to head for lively nightlife.

⌛ Time Here: 30 minutes – 1 hour

📍 Address: Līvu laukums, Centra rajons, Rīga

Riga Black Balsam

While you’re in Riga, I highly recommend you try the local spirit; Riga Black Balsam. 

Riga Black Balsam dates back to 1752 and is a traditional herbal Latvian liquor. Like all good recipes, the actual mix is top secret, but it’s still traditionally made today. It was invented by Abraham Kunze, who was a pharmacist living in Riga.

The dark brown syrupy mixture is said to be beneficial to health and contains 24 botanical ingredients. It’s a little bit bitter to taste but works well in cocktails. They also do a blackcurrant version of Riga Black Balsam which is delicious! 

👉 Travel Tip: If you like quirky-looking bars, then I recommend heading to The Black Magic Bar in the Old Town. This was one of my favourite bars in Riga. It’s styled to look like an old apothecary and serves all things Riga Black Balsam. It’s a little bit kitsch but equally fascinating.

You’ll know you’re at the right place because in the windows of the cafe, you’ll see the signature Riga Black Balsam ceramic bottles.

⌚ Opening Times : Daily 11:30 – 22:00

📍 Address: Kaļķu iela 10, Centra rajons, Rīga

The afternoon of your first day continues in the Old Town at some of the most iconic buildings in the city centre.

Great & Small Guilds and The Cat House

Not far from Līvu Square, you’ll find the Small Guild, Great Guild and Cat House. The Great Guild dates back to the early part of the 14th century and is one of the oldest public buildings in the Baltics. Today it’s home to the Riga Philharmonic Orchestra.

The nearby Small Guild existed for the master craftsmen in Riga. If you get a chance to go inside, it’s one of the most ornate and decorative buildings in the city!

My favourite of the three buildings is the Cat House. It’s named after the cute felines standing on the roof. The building was designed by Friedrich Scheffel and was built in 1909. He was regarded as one of the pioneers of Riga Art Nouveau architecture.

👉 Interesting Fact: There’s a bit of amusing history surrounding the cats. The building was owned by a wealthy Latvian trader who requested membership in the Great Guild. He wasn’t granted access to the Guild, so as a bit of a middle finger up to the organisation, he had originally positioned the cats with their rear end facing the building of the Great Guild.

📍 Address: Meistaru iela 10/12, Centra rajons

The next stop on this Riga itinerary is the famous Dome Square. Walk to the great open square where Riga Dome Cathedral stands. 

The Cathedral was built in the early 1200s and is one of the oldest churches in the Baltics. It’s miraculously survived wars and fires.

This open square wasn’t always this vast, take a look at the cobbles on the floor, and you should be able to see a grid-like pattern. This is to make a footprint where buildings, which were destroyed in the war, once stood. Today, you’ll usually find buskers, entertainers and live music playing in the square.

👉 Travel Tip: Inside the Riga Dome, is one of Europe’s largest organs consisting of a staggering 6,718 pipes. The organ is surrounded by stained glass windows which illuminate it. If you time your visit well, you might catch one of the music concerts taking place here.

⌚ Opening Times : Monday to Saturday 10.00 – 17.00 | Sunday 14.00 – 17.00

📍 Address: Herdera laukums 6, Centra rajons, Rīga

Powder Tower, Old City Wall and Jacob’s Barracks

The next stop on your 3-day vacation in Riga is to visit some of the city’s historic military buildings. 

Riga used to be a walled city, and no trip to Riga would be complete without seeing the walls (or the remains of them) of the ancient city. You can’t miss the large rotund building; this is the old Powder Tower. The building dates back to 1330, and up to the 17th Century was known as the Sand Tower.

It was in the 1800s that the building was then used to store gunpowder used to defend the city and it was renamed the Powder Tower. This building also used to form part of the Old City Wall of Riga. Today the tower now aptly houses the Museum of War. 

👉 Travel Tip: A short distance from the Powder Tower you’ll find the colourful Jacob’s Barracks. The barracks were built in the 18th century and have undergone several makeovers. They were used by the military up until the mid-90s and are one of the longest stretches of buildings in Riga which fill most of Torņa Street.

Today they are a far cry from their original use, and house boutique shops, hipster restaurants and beauty salons.

⌚ Opening Times : Powder Tower Wednesday to Sunday 10.00 – 18.00

📍 Address: Smilšu iela 20, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Related Article: Love walled cities? Have a look at Tallinn in Estonia

The Swedish Gate

Opposite Jacob’s Barracks, you’ll find the adorable Swedish Gate. Out of a total of eight gates, that once formed the entryways to the old city, this is the only remaining gate still standing in the Old City Walls. It was built in 1698 and provided access to the city for the soldiers stationed at the barracks.   

The whole of this area is surrounded by pretty cobbled lanes making it one of the most photographed sites in the city, for the keen Instagrammer, one of the top things to do in Riga’s old town.

👉 Travel Tip: Depending on when you visit, you might have to wait for the snap-happy tribe to finish posing until you have an opportunity to photograph this pretty gate. If it’s too busy, come back at another point during your 3 days in Riga.

⌛ Time Here: 10 minutes

📍 Address: Atgriežu iela, Centra rajons

St Jacobs Cathedral & The Three Brothers

From the Swedish Gate make your way to St Jacob’s Cathedral. Although this is one of the smallest medieval churches in Riga, its bell tower is the best preserved.

Ironically, at my time of visiting, they were doing maintenance on the bell, so I wasn’t able to see the full tower as it was surrounded by scaffolding. Just around the corner, you’ll find your next destination in this Riga 3 day itinerary; the Three Brothers.

Another one of Riga’s iconic photo spots is the Three Brothers. The story behind the name is that they were built by three men from the same family (no one knows if they were brothers, but the dates of the buildings say otherwise).

• The oldest of three houses (number 17) dates back to 1490.
• The most decorated one, the Middle Brother was built in 1646.
• The third brother (number 21) was built during the late 1600s.

Today the three buildings are home to the Latvian Museum of Architecture (where you’ll find loads of blueprints and plans for the city’s historical architecture), and the State Inspection for Heritage Protection.

👉 Travel Tip: Like with the Swedish Gate, you’ll always find a hub of people here taking photos. It’s a challenge trying to find the best angle to fit them all in without anyone walking past the front. If you’re after this shot, you might be waiting for a while, but this is another must-do in Riga.

⌛ Time Here: 20 minutes

📍 Address: Mazā Pils iela 17, Centra rajons, Rīga

Riga Castle

In the last part of the afternoon, you’ll visit the castle – well the outside of it (you can not go in).

From the Three Brothers, head towards the banks of the River Daugava. A castle has stood on this site for over 700 years, although it has undergone extensive additions, renovations and repairs.

Today Riga Castle is the residence of the president of Latvia.

It’s difficult to see the full castle from close up and put it into any context, so my suggestion for a better view is to cross over the river and take a photo from there.

👉 Travel Tip: If you have the time and are tired of walking, you could also book one of the river cruises to see the castle from the water. 

📍 Address: Pils laukums 3, Centra rajons, Rīga

Cross the Vanšu Bridge and the Stone Bridge  

For the final part of day one, you’re going to cross over the river. If you’ve followed this Riga itinerary, the closest bridge to you now will be the Vanšu Bridge. Cross over to the other side of the River Daugava.

There are numerous places on the river bank to photograph the Riga skyline, in particular, you’ll get a much better view of Riga Castle from this side. 

Cross back over the river taking the Stone Bridge.

👉 Travel Tip: If you don’t mind a little extra walking, then I recommend making an additional stop at Holy Trinity Church. This side of the river is home to an absolute gem. You’ll not only find cute colourful houses but also the vibrant Holy Trinity Church.

The candy-pink-coloured photogenic Russian Orthodox church sits in a leafy suburb. Because it’s out of the way, it’s not really visited by tourists. You’ll probably have the place to yourself.

⌛ 20 minutes – 1 hour

⌚ Opening Times : Daily 8.00 – 18.00

📍 Address:  Meža iela 2, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1048, Latvia

riga itinerary 3 days Guide – Day 2

On the second day of your visit, you’re going to explore the Art Nouveau district. The buildings here are gorgeous, so allow plenty of time to peruse the details and get snap-happy with your camera.

Then taste delicious local produce in Europe’s biggest food market before working it all off in some of Riga’s beautiful green spaces and take a boat ride on the river to see the city from a different perspective. Then delve into the city’s history in the Jewish District.

Riga’s Iconic Art Nouveau District

It would be sacrilege for any Riga itinerary to skip this stunning district. Riga is the Art Nouveau capital of the world because about a third of all the buildings in Riga are built in the Art Nouveau style. Most of the buildings date from between 1904 to 1914. 

Just outside of Riga Old Town, you’ll notice that the architecture starts to change, this is the start of the Riga Art Nouveau district. Everything becomes much more ornate and regal. The style of Art Nouveau architecture in Riga is also called Jugendstil.

The whole area is pretty much an open-air museum filled with extravagant buildings adorned with scenes from nature, growing vines, flowers and leaves, geometric ornaments as well as mythical creatures including dragons and gargoyles.

The main streets you’ll want to spend your time around to see the most beautiful buildings are;

• Alberta Street 
• Elizabetes Street 

Most of the buildings have undergone extensive restoration to bring them back to their full glory, and wow, they are stunning!

It’s easy enough to wander about the streets yourself, however, there are also loads of Riga Art Nouveau tours which will give you loads more details about the buildings and point out lots of hidden little quirks. You can find out more about Riga’s Art Nouveau district including a Riga Art Nouveau district map here .

There are several reasons why there was an influx in Art Nouveau construction at the start of the 20th Century. Firstly, the economic boom meant there was money to create such extravagant buildings.

Their construction also coincided with the industrial revolution with people looking for something new and innovative. Finally, there was plenty of space outside of the Old City of Riga (which was overcrowded) and also an abundance of cheap labour readily available to work on the construction.

⌛ Time Here: 2-3 hours

📍 Address: Alberta iela, Riga

Related Article: Complete Guide to Riga’s Art Nouveau District

The Art Nouveau Museum

This is one of Riga’s best museums. The Art Nouveau Museum is located on a corner just off Alberta Street. It was originally the home of one of Latvia’s most famous architects. 

The museum has been restored to show what a typical house would have looked like during the Art Nouveau era and includes furniture, wall decorations and appliances, some of which are original pieces.

The museum is also home to the top things to see in Riga; one of the most photographed staircases in Europe!

👉 Travel Tip: If you’re interested in pretty places to see Riga, for free, then I recommend coming here. The stunning spiral staircase is just inside the foyer of the museum, so even if you don’t fancy going inside the actual museum, at least enter the building to take a peek at the staircase – you won’t regret it!

⌚ Opening Times : Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 – 18.00

📍 Address: Alberta iela 12, Centra rajons, Rīga

In the afternoon explore some of the landmarks left from the Soviet era. Many of the buildings have been repurposed – including the gargantuan Central Market (which is where you can get lunch). After lunch discover the stories and history of the city.

Your Riga 3 days itinerary continues at the central market.

After exploring Riga’s stunning Art Nouveau district, head towards Riga’s Central Market. It’s located near the bus station and the Daugava River.

This is one of the best places to visit in Riga to try local and authentic Latvian food and also where I suggest picking up a delicious lunch for today.

Take a look at the exterior, Riga’s Central Market is located inside a series of huge aeroplane hangars. These were built in the 1920s to house Zeppelins.

The Latvians bought the 4 of them from the Germans cheaply after the war. It was opened as a food market in 1930 and is now the largest city market in Europe. One statistic says it attracts a whopping 80 thousand shoppers who come here every day, so this is a must-do when you visit Riga!

Today, the air hangers are filled with stalls selling fresh vegetables, smoked meat, cheeses, clothes and locally made handicrafts. It’s a great place for souvenir shopping, but more importantly; lunch. To try even a tiny fraction of what’s on offer here, you’d need to visit every day for several weeks.

👉 Travel Tip: The Central Market is popular with both locals and tourists and is where you’ll find some of the best and most affordable fresh food in the city . 

⌚ Opening Times : Daily 7.30 – 18.00

📍 Address: Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga

Jewish District 

After sampling the delights that Riga’s Central Market has to offer, head out to Riga’s Jewish District. If you’re interested in finding out more about the lives of Latvia’s Jewish Community, then the Riga Ghetto Museum is a great place to start.

Amongst other things, it tells of the harrowing history of the 70,000 Jews who lost their lives during the holocaust.

Another place I recommend while you’re in this area is a large brown building. You’d be hard-pushed to miss the omnipresent building that houses the Academy of Sciences. It was built in 1956. You can go inside and up to the 17th floor to the viewing platform for a panoramic view over the city as well as the Daugava River.

Museum of Occupation of Latvia

If you only plan for one museum during your 3 days in Riga, then this is it. After exploring the Old City, Art Nouveau and Jewish Districts, you’ll have some understanding of how diverse and often turbulent the city’s past has been.

To gain more understanding and see how the pieces of the puzzle really fit together, I recommend the Museum of Occupation .

This Museum of Occupation will help piece together some more of Riga’s recent history and focus on Riga’s history from World War II up to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and tell the story of how Riga is the way it is today.

The museum is filled with artefacts, photographs documents, exhibits as well as testimonies and stories from survivors spanning the 51 years that Latvia was occupied by Russia and Nazi Germany.

The purpose of the Museum of Occupation is to preserve the memory of the war-torn country.

You’ll also find out about the fascinating peaceful protest, where millions of people from the Baltic States joined hands to make a chain of people that stretched 675 kilometres from Tallinn in Estonia to Riga, Latvia and through to Vilnius in Lithuania in opposition to Russian rule.

👉 Travel Tip: If you have an interest in Soviet history, there are plenty of walking tours that also focus on the topic of Riga’s dark past. You might be interested in this Iron Curtain Communism Tour .

⌚ Opening Times : Occupation Museum, Saturday to Wednesday 10.00 – 18.00

📍 Address: Occupation Museum, Raiņa bulvāris 7, Centra rajons, Rīga

Laime Clock & Freedom Monument

From the museum, head towards the more modern town centre to see two of the most famous places in Riga. Located close to Bastejkalna Park, you’ll find the slightly strange-looking tower clock called the Laime Clock. It was originally built in 1924 and named after a famous Latvian chocolate brand. It has a very Art Deco look to it.

Close to the Laime Clock, at the end of Brivibas Street, you will see the Freedom Monument. This was built to symbolise Latvia’s freedom and independence. It commemorates the lives of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Latvian War of Independence between 1918 and 1920.

The 42-metre-high monument was built in 1935 from granite and copper and survived the Soviet occupation of Riga. You can often see a guard at The Freedom Monument and you can watch the changing of the guard on the hour each day.

📍 Address: Aspazijas bulvāris 20, Centra rajons, Rīga

The Russian Orthodox Church

Head towards Esplanade Park. This is where you’ll find the visually stunning Russian Orthodox church, the Nativity of Christ Cathedral.

It was built between 1876 and 1883. If you’ve read my article about Tallinn (which you can also visit on a day trip from Riga) you’ll see similarities between this church and the one there.

This is the biggest Roman Orthodox church in the Baltics but was closed as a church during the Soviet reign and then oddly, repurposed into a planetarium. After Latvia regained independence, it returned to being a Russian Orthodox Church.

If you’re in Riga on a sunny day, the gold onion-shaped roofs are blinding to look at.

⌚ Opening Times : Monday to Friday 7.00 – 18.30 | Saturday 7.00 – 19.00 | Sunday 6.00 – 18.30

📍 Address:  Brīvības bulvāris 23, Centra rajons, Rīga,

Relax in Vermanes, Esplanade, Kronvalda or Bastejkalna Park 

Finish off the afternoon in one of Riga’s city parks. There are 4 large parks just outside Riga Old Town to choose from. The one closest to you and the Russian Orthodox Church is Esplanade Park.

You could stay in this one, or head to one of the others, they are all within close walking distance. Each of the parks has vendors selling anything from coffee and sweet treats.

• Vermanes – This is the smallest of the gardens in Riga but also one of the prettiest.
• Esplanade – This is the one in which the stunning Russian Orthodox Cathedral is situated. The park isn’t quite as pretty as the other three but it’s still a nice big green space to get away from the crowds.
• Kronvalda – The Pilsētas Canal runs through two parks in Riga, this is one of them. Boat trips go along the Canal and out into the Daugava River which will give you some great panoramic shots of the Old Town from a different perspective. This is a very pretty park and a bit quieter than the others. This is also where you can book a canal boat tour of Riga .
• Bastejkalna – This is one of the oldest green spaces in Riga and is located just outside of Riga town, which also makes it one of the busiest. The Pilsētas Canal runs through this park, so you can pick up the river tour here also.

Riga itinerary 3 days Guide – Day 3 (Day Trip from Riga)

On the final day of your Riga 3 days itinerary, there are plenty of options.

If you didn’t manage to see everything that was covered in this Riga city guide, you could spend the morning doing that, before taking a half-day trip outside of the city.

Additionally, there are some great full-day trips from Riga.

Gauja National Park or Jurmala Beach

If you’re eager to escape the city, then you can do either a half or full-day trip to either of these destinations. You can get there easily enough by public transport, or book an organised tour like this Gauja National Park and Jurmala Beach itinerary .

Jurmala Beach – Riga is located next to the Baltic Sea and within just a 30-minute train journey you can be at Jurmala Beach.

The white sandy beach of Jurmala gets busy in the summer with a mix of residents and tourists looking to escape the city. If the beach is too crowded, then you can hire bikes to cycle along this stretch of coast and explore some of the quieter districts and pretty tree-lined avenues or some of the nature trails.

Take note though, because Jumala is located on the Baltic Sea, the water can be chilly even in the summer months. So brace yourself if you’re not good with the cold.

If you decide to take a day trip to Jurmala by train, then as a heads up, there is no actual train station called ‘Jurmala’. The sea will be visible for a lot of the train journey, so you’ll know you’re getting close.

There are two stops you could get off. If you want to see some cute traditional wooden villas there are plenty between the two stops of Majori and Dzintari, these are also where you’ll find a livelier vibe and more options like restaurants, shops and facilities.

If you want a slightly quieter spot with fewer facilities, then Dubulti is the better option. If you don’t want to faff with the train, then you could always book a tour with transportation included.

If beaches aren’t your thing, then the alternative option is to head out to one of Latvia’s most beautiful national parks. In around about an hour by train or bus, you can be at Sigulda which is the gateway to Gauja National Park.

The 90,000 hectares of Gauja National Park and River offer loads of things to do on a day trip (if you have longer, then even better!).

The area is full of medieval castles, caves and ruins as well as a great place for hiking through the beautiful countryside. You could explore the area yourself, or take the brain work out of it and book a guided tour of Sigulda with transportation .

If you’re desperate to find some adrenalin sports , then check out the zip lining 55 m above the river or bungee jumping. There is also a bobsleigh run during the summer months. If you visit in the winter, then you can also ski! You might also like going to the Gutmanis Caves to drink the ‘holy water’ or the cable car to Krimulda.

If you want to visit castles (let’s face it, who doesn’t love a medieval fairy tale castle ) then there are two options here.

Sigulda Castle is located in the town where both the train and bus from Riga arrive. The other is to take the connecting bus to nearby Turaida Castle. From the tower of Turaida Castle, you get stunning views looking back over Gauja National Park.

Other Riga experiences

There are so many things to do in Riga – too many things in just three days. If you have a bit longer than 3 days in Riga, you might like these other great things to do in the city.

Where to stay in Riga 

There’s no shortage of accommodation in Riga for every budget for 3 days Riga trip. Regardless of your travel style, you’ll easily find something to suit you. I highly recommend the best area to stay in Riga will be central so that everything is within walking distance. 

Dome Hotel, Riga

✅ Centrally located on Dome Square

✅ 5-star rated hotel

✅ Onsite spa & Turkish bath

The Romantic Studio Apartment, Riga

✅ Centrally located

✅ Self-catering units

✅ Entire apartment

The Tree House Hostel, Riga

✅ Centrally located in the Old Town

✅ Lockers in rooms

✅ Nightly activities & well-stocked onsite bar

FAQs for this 3 Days Riga Itinerary

So I’ve gone into details of what to see in Riga in 3 days. This section has the answers to questions that frequently come up about the practicalities of travel in Riga as well as useful travel tips .

Getting to Riga: Travel Options

The closest airport is Riga International Airport (RIX). It’s located about 15km outside of the centre of Riga. The easiest way to visit Riga is to fly directly here. Unless you’re on an extended trip around the Baltic states then the easiest way to get to Riga is to fly directly.

Getting from the Riga Airport to Riga City

There are several options to get from Riga airport to city centre. One of the most efficient is by taking the public bus. The bus runs every three hours and takes 24 minutes. Get this from the station from the airport.

Alternatively, you can book your airport transfer directly to your hotel in advance. Booking in advance saves you both the hassle and avoids the hefty inflated fees from the taxi firms at the airport.

When Is the Best time to visit Riga?

The best season for Riga is from late May through to October. The warmest months are July and August which is also the peak time for crowds and prices as it coincides with the European school holidays.

Taking advantage of good weather and fewer crowds, the perfect time to visit Riga is in late May to June or September to October.

During the winter, you can pick up some great deals on flights and hotels. If you’re wondering what to do in Riga in winter, you’ll find plenty happening around the festive season, with traditional Christmas markets.

how many days to spend in riga?

You might be wondering how many days in Riga? You could see the highlights at a push on a Riga one day itinerary.

However, this would involve darting from one location to the next, and not give you any time to explore the city. On a Riga weekend trip across two days, you would get to see everything at a much more leisurely pace as well as have time to enjoy perusing the old town.  

If you’re wondering how many days to visit Riga? To give a balance of seeing all the highlights at a leisurely pace, as well as having time to get lots in the pretty cobbled streets, and enjoy looking at the stunning architecture, then I’d recommend at least 3 days in Riga. 

What to pack for Riga

Although there are plenty of bright and sunny days, even in the peak of summer, the weather can still be chilly. Especially in the evenings. It can rain at any time of the year, so whatever you plan to do on your Riga itinerary. Even in July and August, take a warm jumper and waterproof jacket.

Overall, it’s best to pack layers of clothing. Another thing to remember is to pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes. The centre of the old town is cobbled, and it can get slippery in the rain.

What are the top 10 Riga attractions?

There is a summary of the top things to see in Riga at the start of this article. If you missed it, but are intrigued about the must-see Riga sites, scroll back to the top of this article.

Alternatively, you can download this checklist, map and information sheet that gives you the low-down on everything covered in this article for offline viewing. 

What’s the best way to get around Riga?

Getting around Riga is relatively straightforward. The centre is mostly pedestrianised which makes it a very walkable city. The city has so much to offer and I can guarantee that you’ll love your trip to Riga.

It’s best to get around Riga on foot to fully experience the history and culture of the city. There are so many little alleyways and courtyards, all steeped in history, waiting to be explored and you’ll find yourself stumbling on so many little gems.

However, it’s useful to know that Riga is a sprawling city, and although when I visited, I did everything on foot, if you aren’t able to walk far, then the public bus is one option. The more convenient option is the Riga sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour which stops at all the essential landmarks. 

Where can I find a Riga tourist map?

Of course, you can pick one up at the Riga Tourism Information Centre, but if you want to plan your trip before you get there, then the map below shows all the areas covered in this Riga 3 days itinerary.

You can download it straight to your inbox for offline viewing, along with an interactive map, information sheet and checklist. 

How’s Your Riga 3 Days Itinerary Shaping Up?

If you were in any doubts and wondered if is Riga worth visiting, I hope this article has answered that question. Riga doesn’t half-pack a punch when it comes to city breaks. As you’ve read, there is an abundance of places to visit in Riga, from the old UNESCO-listed historical centre to the jaw-droppingly stunning Art Nouveau in Riga.

If you do have longer or some flexibility in your itinerary, then it’s also worth checking out more day tours from Riga and even heading towards some of the neighbouring Baltic states.

Riga, like many other beautiful eastern European cities , makes for such a diverse short break. Because of their turbulent histories, stunning architecture and historical centres, there is plenty to keep every type of traveller satisfied.

If you’re travelling around the Baltic States, you might like these other great articles…

• A Guide To Riga’s Art Nouveau District
• 23 Things to Add to Your Baltic States Bucket List
• What To Do In Tallinn – 33 Must-See Things

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed DIY travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a solo traveller on a mission to experience the best adventures our fabulous little planet offers. I love creating my own itineraries that focus on unforgettable experiences, from climbing mountains and scuba diving to spotting wildlife and exploring ancient ruins.

When I'm not on an adventure, you'll probably find me sipping coffee or with a glass of wine in hand, planning my next journey.

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Riga travel guide — the fullest latvia travel guide & riga guide for first-timers.

If you are looking for a new and unique, lesser-known destination in Europe, Latvia is probably an ideal destination for you. Latvia – a destination that is not very famous, but if you have come here, visitors definitely cannot help but admire its beauty. Adorned with the valley pine of Gauja or the wonders bearing bold European dome architecture style, Latvia appears in a charming and brilliant way. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Latvia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Latvia travel blog (Latvia blog, Riga blog, Riga travel blog) with the fullest Latvia travel guide (Latvia guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Guide from Riga to Gauja National park — The fullest Gauja guide & what to do in Sigulda Latvia?

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Latvia, a name is still quite unfamiliar to those who are passionate about European tourism. However, in my opinion, not because few people know about it that make this place is not worth exploring at all. If I have to vote on a place that I’ve been to and want to come back again, surely the Latvian capital Riga will never be out of this list. In 2018 Riga was also voted as the top 5 most attractive destinations in Europe.

Latvia travel guide: Overview of Latvia

Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia. Latvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia and Belarus to the east and the Baltic Sea to the west. Ethnic groups are mainly Latvian (59%) and Russian (28.3%), in addition to other ethnic minorities. Latvia’s area is about 65,000 square kilometers but the population is only nearly 2.7 million people (2021).

• The Latvian capital: Riga
• Member of the European Union since 2004
• Latvian population: about 2.7 million people
• Language: Latvian, English (administrative), Russian

The capital of Latvia is Riga and this city has also been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Riga is also the largest city among cities in the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania). Latvia is a country with a long history in Europe. Historically, the country was colonized by many neighboring countries.

On November 18, 1918, the republic of Latvia was officially established. In 1940, Latvia was annexed to the Soviet Union, then became a socialist country called the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, Latvia became an independent country again. Therefore, it is not difficult to realize, the architectures were built in Riga are extremely majestic and beautiful. People often compare Riga to a city of Art Nouveau – an art and architecture school from the early 19th century that stands out with its meticulous decoration and intricate and flexible motifs. These are also special architectural features only in Riga.

In my personal opinion, the architecture here is as beautiful as in cities centers of the Netherlands or Russia and even more beautiful than the Nordic countries. Therefore, many newspapers are now assessing that Riga’s tourism is being “underrated” compared to other European countries.

Latvia travel blog: When to visit?

Latvia has a pleasant climate, so it is extremely suitable for sightseeing, relaxing and leisure travel. The best time to travel to Latvia is in spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October). During this time, the weather is warm, right in the fruit harvesting season, so the scenery even more charming. If you want to have a special experience, you can also come here around February when the temperature is very low to have fun with snow.

In addition, January and February are the coldest months of the year. November, December days are usually short and often rain in late afternoon.

Riga travel guide: Where to stay?

The cost of living in Latvia is quite cheap, the hotel price is about €20-30/night, so you will have a room right in the center if you book early.

During my trip in Riga, I stayed at the Airbnb of a Latvian man’s house. His house located right in the center, so it is quite convenient. The room rate is €23 and you are free to use its kitchen. In general, life in Latvia as well as the climate here is quite pleasant, so I was so satisfied with this trip. In addition, you can refer to some of the following hotels:

• Green Cat Rooms : The hotel is located in the heart of Riga with modern and comfortable equipment. Price €23/2 people.
• Apartment Harmony ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) : The hotel is located in the center of Riga for €24/2 people including breakfast.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Neiburgs Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Monika Centrum Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check-out top rated and best places to stay in Riga on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Latvia travel guide: Gettting to Latvia

There are no connecting flights to Riga, but you can go from Helsinki, take a ferry to Tallinn and continue take a bus to Riga. If you plan to visit Baltic states, you can make a trip to visit Tallinn (Estonia) – Riga (Latvia) – Vilnius (Lithuania).

Other ways to get to Latvia you can refer to here .

Riga travel guide: Getting around Riga

If you only visit famous places right in the center of Riga, you do not need to buy tickets for transportation, but if necessary, you can refer to some of the following options:

Hop on – hop off bus tickets: Adult: €17 / Child (11-15 years old): €10

The above fare for 2 days, and note that this is an online ticket price, if you buy it directly on bus, it will be more expensive (€20). Tickets can be used to go 4 different lines and passing many famous attractions.

Public transport:

• Take bus 22 from the airport – city center and vice versa (30 minutes)
• Single ticket price: €1.15 when buy online or via ticket vending machines, ticket counters (tickets purchased directly on the bus: €2)
• One-day ticket: €5
• 3-day ticket: €10

Riga travel blog: Where to go?

Old town of riga.

When it comes to Riga, perhaps it can’t help but to mention its old town. This district was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1997. Although the war has caused a lot of damage to the works in the Latvian capital Riga, the remaining works, buildings, structures are still well preserved to this day.

Riga’s Old Town is a maze of enchanting cobblestone streets and brightly colored buildings dating back to the 13th century. The main highlights here are the St. Peter’s Church, House of the Black Heads, and the Three Brothers. These are definitely places you should not miss when traveling to Riga.

St. Peter’s Church

The Church of St. Peter is the highest structure in Riga, with a 123.5 meter towering tower rising straight into the Old Town sky. You can take the elevator to the top of this tower for a panoramic view of the city. Besides worship services, this 13th-century Art Nouveau building also hosts art exhibitions, festivals and concerts.

Church of St. Peter is one of the oldest medieval monuments in the Baltic States. Since its construction, this tower has been affected by lightning, wind storms and fire and has been rebuilt many times.

Located next to the gentle Daugava River, Saint Peter’s Church is the most representative of the quintessence of Art Nouveau architecture school. Using curving curves with high vaulted doorways and elaborate decorations, St. Peter’s Church is the most beautiful and impressive church in the Baltic region.

Address: Reformācijas Laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 10AM–7PM/Monday: Closed Architectural style: Gothic architecture Opened: 1746

House of the Blackheads

The House of the Blackheads was built in 1334 and was the meeting venue of Riga’s various public organizations. It was completely destroyed during the 2nd world war and was rebuilt in 1999. This building can be seen as the symbol of Latvia tourism that you often see on its postcards.

This magnificent Blackheads building is like a crown adorning the Old Town square in Riga. The building’s Dutch Renaissance exterior is a tourist attraction. This building was built in the 14th century, was destroyed during the war and rebuilt in 1999.

Address: Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12–5PM Admission: €6

Three Brothers

A building complex of three houses, located in the Latvian capital Riga. This is considered the oldest residence in Riga. The homes are located at 17, 19 and 21 Maza Pils Street, and each represents different periods of housing development of the city.

Address: Mazā Pils iela 17, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Christ’s Nativity Church is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Baltic region. The church was built in 1876, when Latvia was part of the Russian Empire. At that time, this church was one of the most laborious and expensive buildings ever built in Riga. In the 1960s, the Soviets converted the cathedral’s use into an observatory and cafe, destroying the murals on the ceiling. The building returned to its original role as a church when Latvia gained independence from Russia.

I consider this a very worthwhile place to go when traveling to Riga, Latvia because besides the church’s architecture, its location is right on the boulevard overlooking the trees that are trimmed like square-shaped, evenly and eye-catching. Besides, this church is located right in the campus of an extremely large park. You definitely won’t regret coming to this place.

Address: Brīvības bulvāris 23, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7AM–6:30PM Architectural style: Byzantine Revival architecture Opened: 1876 Admission: free

Bastejkalna Park

In addition to the outstanding places above with countless small places to visit in Latvia, you can visit some other places such as Bastejkalna Park or Riga central market.

Bastejkalna Park is also an interesting place that you should stop when traveling in Latvia. This is very large park located in the bustling center of Riga, Latvian park possesses extremely rich natural scenes. Inside the park are large lakes. To experience the wonderful and interesting things here, you can walk or cycle around the park. You will sure to have an enjoyable picnic here.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: Open 24 hours

Riga Central Market

The Central Market is located next to Riga Bus Station and Central Railway Station, near the Old Town and is full of goods and food. You can stop by to know the price of food and experience the real market culture here.

Address: Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Hours: 7:30AM–6PM

Freedom Monument

Freedom Monument is a memorial to the soldiers who participated in the Latvian war for independence. The monument consists of a large column, carved statues around it, at the top of the column is a bronze statue of the Statue of Liberty, holding 3 stars. This monument is a symbol of Latvia’s freedom, independence and sovereignty.

Address: Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia Opened: November 18, 1935 Height: 42 m

Riga Castle

Riga Castle, located on the banks of the Daugava River, is a must-see when visiting the Latvian capital. It was built in 1330. After several destructions, the castle was continuously restored between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, it is used as a museum and the presidential residence.

Address: Pils laukums 3, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia Architectural style: Classical architecture Function: Castle Opened: 1515

In addition, if you still have time, you can go to the other side of the city’s river where many Russians live is called Pardaugava. This area also has a number of attractions such as flea market, museum, Holy Trinity Church of Pārdaugava, park… If you take a hop on hop off bus, the bus will take you to this area too.

Jurmala Beach

And the last place to consider to come when traveling to Latvia is Jurmala Beach, a 30-minute train ride from the center. If you still have time, you should consider to go, this beach has the Blatic style, so it’s not as excellent as our Vietnamese beaches.

Cēsis Old Town

Cesis is one of Latvia’s oldest towns with poetic cobblestone streets, wooden buildings and impressive castles. With gardens, lakes, flowers and small paths, or moss-covered rocks… Cesis appears as beautiful as a watercolor painting. When you visit Cesis, you can visit the historic museum, gallery and oldest brewery in the region.

Gutmanis Cave

Gutmanis is the deepest cave in the Baltic region at a depth of 19m, 10-12m wide. This is also a favorite destination of tourists when coming to this Baltic country. There are many legends about the formation of this cave, one of which is the story of a chief’s wife, who was locked here because of infidelity, her tears created Gutmanis cave.

Turaida castle

One of the most beautiful places in Latvia is Turai Castle. This castle was built during the time of the Roman pope. However it was destroyed in 1776. But, 50 years later it was restored to its original form. Visiting this castle, visitors will see the red brick background, it exudes a rare ancient look. The wild scenery around the castle makes you feel like you are lost in the magical fairy world.

Address: Turaidas iela 10, Sigulda, Siguldas pilsēta, LV-2150, Latvia Hours: 10AM–6PM

Venta Rapid Waterfall

With an impressive width (249m), Venta is currently the widest waterfall in Europe, although the slope is only about 2m. The best time to see this waterfall is in spring. When the water overflows, the waterfall also turns and shoots white foam.

Riga travel guide: What to eat?

Latvian cuisine is typical of European cuisine. It brings the subtle and sophisticated. In addition to its delicious and attractive taste, it is also decorated very sophisticatedly and eye-catching. In particular, the dishes in Latvia are not too expensive, suitable for the budget of most tourists.

Typical Latvian cuisine consists of agricultural products, where meat is present in almost every main course of a meal. Fish is commonly consumed as Latvia is located on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. Latvian cuisine changes with the seasons, each time of the year has its own unique foods and flavors. Latvian food is generally quite fatty and uses little seasoning.

Here, you can try to enjoy Sklandrausis pie , a traditional vegetable pastry made from carrots and potatoes, sprinkled with cinnamon powder and served with milk; dessert Maizes zupa (bread soup) made with rye bread, whipped cream and fruit; or sipping a glass of Riga Black Balsam flavored with a variety of herbs.

Coming here, you can rest assured that you can eat comfortably without having to worry about costs. A meal in restaurants costs only €4-5. Supermarkets are of course cheap. In general, the price is cheaper than all the countries I have been to in Europe (on par with Lithuania).

If you want Asian food, come here, I think it’s delicious and the price is also quite good: Hum Asian Kitchen : (Address: etrūdes iela 22, Riga 1011, Latvia+371 66 077 077).

If you want to try an authentic Latvian restaurant, you can visit this place: Domini Canes (Address: Skarnu street 18/20 | Riga Old Town, Riga 1050, Latvia). This restaurant is located in the old town near St. Peter church.

Onother good restaurant also located in the Old Town is Golden coffee (Address: Kungu iela 7/9, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia/Hours: 9AM–11PM).

In short, traveling to Riga is the cheapest cost among other European cities!

Riga travel guide: Shopping

In Latvia there are many places to shop with interesting gifts for yourself or as souvenirs for loved ones such as amber rings, silver jewelry, smoked ceramics, very beautiful decorated fingerless gloves or unique handicrafts. These items are sold everywhere from traditional markets to commercial centers, from shops to roadside stalls.

Riga travel blog: Trip costs

Riga has a very good cost of living, not as expensive as many Western and Nordic countries. A bottle of soft drink costs 80 cents, while in Finland it is €2.5 and in France €2.0.

One night hostel from €10 – €15. Hotels from €20. I have stayed at a 4-star hotel but the price is only €35, this price is even cheaper than mid-range hotels in Vietnam.

Means of transportation you can buy daily ticket for €5 and can use all bus and tram system of the city.

The trip cost per day if staying at hostel is only €35/day/person.

Riga blog: Some notes before you go

• In short, when traveling to Riga, the most worth-visiting place in my opinion is Riga Old Town – where many Art Nouveau buildings and churches and other historical sites are concentrated. There is also an boulevard and Christ’s Nativity church right in the center. The above places can be considered a must see in Riga – the rest of the places I have mentioned, if you still have time, let explore. The itinerary for traveling between attractions is not too difficult. You just need to find your way to the old town and boulevard. Generally pretty easy to find.
• If you have time, go to Lithuania – a neighboring country with the same cost as Latvia but the scenery is also very beautiful.

Riga travel blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Riga you can refer to

• Tallink Silja Cruise between Stockholm and Riga
• Riga Classical Old Town 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Sigulda Hiking Tour: A Day in the Switzerland of Latvia
• From Riga: Cēsis, Sigulda & Turaida Castle Tour
• Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk
• Eurail Pass for Latvia (3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 Days)
• Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat
• Riga: Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Riga: 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Latvia: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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10 must-see in Riga

From magnificent cathedrals to fresh food markets and opera to a one-of-a-kind car museum, Riga has everything for a memorable visit. This inspiring city will make you smile!

Timeless charm

Old town riga.

Steeped in over 800 years of history and recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Old Riga is the heart and soul of Latvia’s capital. Many nations have helped build this unique place, and famous figures from Peter the Great to Richard Wagner have spent time here. Magnificent churches, architectural masterpieces like the House of Blackheads, romantic cobblestone lanes, squares bursting with summer life and much more await you.

Shopping on a grand scale

Riga central market.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to Riga’s Central Market. One of the largest markets in Europe, the vast territory is dominated by five zeppelin hangars filled with cheese, fish, smoked meat, honey, fresh fruit and vegetables and lots more superb seasonal produce. The atmosphere is friendly and filled with local colour.

Lady liberty

The freedom monument.

Latvians have struggled hard for their country’s independence, and the sacrifice and triumph are summed up in one magnificent work of art in Riga. Unveiled in 1935, the Freedom Monument has also played a major role in the country’s subsequent tumultuous history. The ensemble by sculptor Kārlis Zāle depicts the nation singing, working and fighting for liberty, crowned by a beautiful girl holding three stars aloft.

The art of the city

Art nouveau.

Riga experienced its golden age in the early 20th century just as Art Nouveau architecture was coming into fashion, and so the city has one of the world’s richest collections of this exuberant style.

There are over 800 amazing Art Nouveau structures throughout the city, but the greatest concentration is on Alberta iela, a street largely built in a flurry of creativity by a single architect, Mikhail Eisenstein.

A treat for eyes and ears

Latvian national opera and ballet.

The birthplace of stars from dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov to diva Elīna Garanča, Riga is a city with a musical soul. Nowhere is this better showcased than the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, a magnificent neo classical building dating from 1882 in the heart of town.

Attend a performance, take a guided tour behind the scenes, and relax by the Opera Nymph fountain on a sunny day and enjoy the beautiful opera gardens.

Heavenly sounds

Dome square and cathedral.

Almost as old as Riga itself, Doma Cathedral is the city's, spiritual heart. With construction begun by Riga’s first Bishop Albert in 1211, it has been a work in progress ever since, with Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and even Art Nouveau elements in one harmonious whole.

The interior holds many works of art, and the adjacent Cloister Garden displays intriguing artefacts from Riga’s history. And don’t miss a performance on the famous organ, built in 1884 and still considered today to be one of the finest instruments in the world.

It takes a village

Latvian ethnographic open-air museum.

You don’t have to travel far in Riga to escape the urban bustle. Located right on the city’s doorstep, the Open Air Ethnographic Museum is a luscious lakeside park where fine examples of vernacular architecture from all over Latvia have been lovingly preserved.

Step back in time by visiting peasant homes, workshops, windmills and priceless treasures like the richly ornamented Usma Church.

Drive into history

Riga motor museum.

Just reopened after an extensive facelift, Riga Motor Museum will bring joy to the whole family. Located beside a racetrack in suburban Riga in a building resembling the front of a car, the museum houses many magnificent examples from motoring history, from Model T Fords to vehicles once owned by Stalin, Khrushchev and Brezhnev. Kids will love the interactive displays.

Talk to the animals

Founded in 1912, Riga Zoo is the oldest in the Baltics and one of the loveliest in Europe. Set on the banks of Lake Ķīšezers, it is home to a diverse range of mammals, birds and reptiles. Kids will love the petting zoo, and the steamy Tropical House will keep you warm all year round. A visit to the zoo is perfectly combined with a stroll around  Mežaparks , the heritage garden suburb next door.

Picture perfect

Latvian national museum of art.

The Latvian National Museum of Art is a wonderful venue for discovering Latvia’s artistic heritage through both permanent and visiting exhibitions. And fresh from a major reconstruction, the building is a work of art to savour.

Built originally in 1905, the grand neo-Classical structure is seamless and blends the original grand columns, sweeping stairs and impressive murals with post-modern elements like a light-embracing glass cupola, observation deck and transparent storage areas, so you can literally see the art behind the scenes.

18 MUST-DO Things To Do in Riga, Latvia!

Categories Europe , Latvia

Riga in Latvia is one of the top cities to visit in the Baltic Countries and here’s a complete list of must-do things to do in Riga to help you plan your trip!

Riga is the perfect city to visit for a quick weekend away or as part of a wider Baltic / Eastern Europe trip .

I really loved my weekend in Riga because it’s such an interesting and historic city with plenty to do, as well as being really reasonable in price! I spent just a weekend in 2 days and 3 nights in Riga and found this to be the perfect amount of time to spend there to fit in all of the things to do in Riga and the top Riga tourist attractions!

Here in this Riga city guide is what I got up to in Riga including the places to visit in Riga , things to do in Riga and where to eat in Riga!

Things To Do in Riga

Discover the places to visit in Riga with rich history, stunning art nouveau architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. From the historic Old Town to unique local experiences, there’s something for everyone in Latvia’s charming capital. Dive into this guide to uncover the top things to do in Riga for an unforgettable visit to Riga !

1. Viewpoints in Riga

It’s always good to visit a city and see it from above, isn’t it? Well, Riga has 4 Awesome Panoramic Viewpoints :  St Peters Church, Latvian Academy of Sciences Panorama Observation Deck, Riga Skyline Bar and National Library of Latvia.

St. Peter’s Church

At St. Peter’s Church , visitors can delve into the history of one of Riga’s most iconic landmarks. With origins dating back to the 13th century, the church stands as a testament to the city’s rich past.

The tower’s observation deck, accessible by elevator, provides a breathtaking 360-degree view , capturing the winding streets of the Old Town, the expansive Daugava River , and the city’s architectural tapestry. The experience is both visually stunning and conveniently accessible, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to see Riga from above.

Latvian Academy of Sciences Panorama Observation Deck

The Latvian Academy of Sciences Panorama Observation Deck offers a different perspective, both in terms of view and historical context.

Often referred to as “ Stalin’s Birthday Cake ” because of its distinctive Soviet-era architecture, the building stands out in Riga’s skyline. Visitors can ascend to the 17th floor, where the observation deck awaits, offering panoramic views of the city and a unique insight into Latvia’s history during the Soviet period .

Radisson Blu Hotel Latvia

For those seeking a more modern and stylish setting, the Riga Skyline Bar is the perfect destination to visit in Riga .

Situated on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvia , the bar features floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring unobstructed views of Riga. Visitors can enjoy a drink while taking in the cityscape, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Fancy staying here too?? Check out rates and availability at the Radisson Blu Hotel here!

National Library of Latvia

Lastly, the National Library of Latvia, also known as the “ Castle of Light ,” represents a marvel of contemporary architecture. Positioned along the Daugava River, the building itself is worth exploring, with its extensive collection of books and unique architectural features.

Various spots within the library offer panoramic views of Riga, including an observation deck, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience of the city from above.

Not only do these viewpoints give awesome views of Riga but they are also really interesting buildings and take you to some great parts of the city. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying stunning views, Riga’s panoramic spots offer something for everyone, adding a valuable dimension to any visit and are one of the best things to do in Riga .

I have written a full blog post dedicated to these viewpoints which include where they are, prices, and photos from them all – 4 Viewpoints to see Panoramic Views over Riga. Check it out to get all of the details!

2. Riga Old Town

I love a European City with a beautiful Old Town and seeing photos of Riga’s Old Town definitely inspired me to want to visit.

The Old Town in Riga isn’t that big but it’s big enough and perfect to wander around taking any pretty street that you fancy! In fact, I found it quite hard to find my bearing’s in Riga’s Old Town as the streets are quite windy but this just meant that we kept seeing new areas and getting lost here should be on your things to do in Riga !

The architecture here is a delightful mix of styles, from Gothic spires reaching towards the sky to baroque facades adorned with intricate details.

In addition to its picturesque streets and historic buildings, the Old Town is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes , providing plenty of opportunities to take a break from your wanderings and soak in the atmosphere. The area comes alive at night, with bars and clubs offering entertainment into the early hours of the morning.

3. Three Brothers Buildings

The Three Brothers buildings in Riga are an iconic set of structures , showcasing the evolution of architectural styles over several centuries. The oldest of the trio dates back to the late 15th century , making it a genuine piece of medieval history situated right in the heart of the city and should be on your list of things to do in Riga !

Each building reflects a different architectural period . The eldest brother, located at 17 Maza Pils Street, is a gothic-style structure with its original facade well-preserved, providing visitors a glimpse into the 15th-century Riga. The middle brother, at 19 Maza Pils Street, displays Dutch Mannerism influence from the 17th century, while the youngest, at 21 Maza Pils Street, features a Baroque façade, marking the architectural trends of the 18th century.

Visitors are often drawn to these buildings not just because of their historical significance, but also due to the l egend surrounding their creation . It’s believed that the buildings were erected by members of the same family at different times, adding a layer of personal history to the structures.

4. Latvian Museum of Architecture

The youngest of the Three Brothers houses the Latvian Museum of Architecture , making it a significant stop for those interested in the country’s architectural heritage.

Inside, visitors can delve into Latvia’s architectural heritage through a variety of exhibits, from blueprints and models to photographs and historical documents. The intricate exterior, with its elaborate door frame and gable roof, is a visual treat in itself, capturing the artistic essence of the era.

The museum’s collection includes drawings, photographs, and models , offering an in-depth look at Latvia’s architectural development over the centuries. While it was closed when I went but I would have loved to have visited and seen inside so try and go for me and add it onto your list of things to do in Riga!

5. House of the Blackheads

Closer to the River but still in the Old Town are these 2 impressive buildings House of the Blackheads and the adjacent St. Peter’s Church, both of which hold significant historical value and architectural magnificence, located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town.

The House of the Blackheads was originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners in Riga. The building is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture with Renaissance and Baroque elements , showcasing intricate façades, elaborate doorways, and a striking red-brick exterior. Inside, visitors can find opulent rooms adorned with historical artifacts, paintings, and intricate decorations, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval guild life.

Adjacent to the House of the Blackheads stands St. Peter’s Church , one of Riga’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built in 1209, the church has undergone several reconstructions due to fire damage. The current structure, with its towering spire, offers panoramic views of Riga from its observation deck, a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the beauty of the city from above.

Both buildings were indeed heavily damaged during the Second World War , but meticulous restoration work has brought them back to their former glory. The restoration of the House of the Blackheads was completed in 1999, with efforts made to preserve as much of the original structure and artifacts as possible.

They stand as a testament to Riga’s rich history and should be on your list of things to do in Riga . Ensure to check their opening hours and any potential guided tours available to enhance your experience and understanding of these remarkable structures.

Riga also offers a huge amount of tours within and around the city so check out out of these to make your time in Riga even better and more in depth as this city holds a lot of history:

6. Art Nouveau District

Riga is home to quite a large Art Nouveau District which sits just on the Edge of the Old Town. The buildings here as you can imagine are really impressive and definitely worth seeing on the list of places to visit in Riga !

The Art Nouveau style is all about decorative arts, and you can see this in the detailed facades of the buildings in this district. They feature elaborate patterns, curved lines, and images inspired by nature, such as flowers and animals.

These designs were incredibly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Riga has one of the largest and best-preserved collections of Art Nouveau architecture in all of Europe.

7. Riga Art Nouveau Museum

The Art Nouveau Museum , located on Alberta Street, is a great place to start exploring this district. This street is famous for its beautiful buildings, many of which were designed by Mikhail Eisenstein, a renowned architect of that time. Even if you don’t go inside the museum, just walking around the area is like being in an outdoor art gallery .

I didn’t get here but from what I have read I would really recommend going. The Art Nouveau Museum in Riga is indeed a remarkable destination for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the city’s Art Nouveau district, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved building that itself is a prime example of the architectural style it celebrates.

Art Nouveau, or Jugendstil as it is known in Latvia, was a dominant architectural and art style in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Riga, with over a third of its buildings in the city center designed in this style, is considered one of the best places in the world to experience Art Nouveau.

The museum’s exhibits showcase the intricacies of Art Nouveau design , from furniture and art pieces to everyday household items, giving a comprehensive overview of the style’s impact on both art and society. One of the museum’s highlights is the A rt Nouveau staircase , renowned as one of the most impressive in Europe.

Despite not being able to visit it personally, the Art Nouveau Museum in Riga comes highly recommended as a must-visit place in Riga for anyone looking to understand the city’s architectural heritage and the broader Art Nouveau movement.

8. Museum of Occupation  

Latvia and the Baltics in general has had a very turbulent history , and a very recent turbulent history at that. Therefore I found this museum really interesting to see how Latvia has been occupied in the last 100 years.

Did you know that on 23rd August 1989 around 2 million people all held hands to create a chain across Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia as a peaceful Political Protest ??

I would really recommend seeing this museum if you want to get to know the Country a bit more. The museums main location is by the Houses of the Blackheads however when we visited it was in a temporary building near the Freedom monument so check out the website first!

If you’re thinking of visiting all 3 of the popular Baltic Capitals – Riga, Vilnius AND Estonia in one trip, be sure to check out Happy Frog Travels post to the Beautiful Baltic Capitals !

9. Nativity of Christ Cathedral

The Riga Nativity of Christ Cathedral , located just a short walk from Riga’s Old Town , is an absolutely stunning church, both inside and out. With its strong Russian influences, it’s easy to forget you’re still in Latvia while exploring this magnificent building.

Built in the 19th century during the time Latvia was part of the Russian Empire, this cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Riga. It truly stands out with its elaborate exterior, featuring shining golden domes and detailed designs that showcase the incredible craftsmanship of that time.

Despite its beauty and grandeur, the Riga Nativity of Christ Cathedral has had its share of challenges. There were times during the Soviet era when it was closed down and repurposed. Thankfully, it has been carefully restored to its original beauty, preserving its historical and artistic value for future generations to enjoy.

Nowadays, the cathedral is once again an active place of worship for Riga’s Orthodox Christian community. It also attracts tourists from all around the world who come to admire its architectural beauty and experience the sense of calm that it offers. So, whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a peaceful place to reflect, the Riga Nativity of Christ Cathedral is definitely worth a visit.

10. Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument in Riga is a really important spot that stands for all the tough times Latvia went through to be a free country .

We visited the Museum of Occupation first and then came across the Freedom Monument and I felt it had so much more significance after seeing what Latvia has been through to gain freedom and independence. It’s kind of like seeing the whole story of Latvia’s fight for freedom before seeing the monument that celebrates it.

The monument is right where the Old Town ends and the Art Nouveau District begins , which is a pretty cool area with parks on each side — it’s nice for hanging out or just walking through. There’s also a river that flows right under a nearby bridge, which makes the place feel peaceful.

The Freedom Monument itself is super tall and at the top, there’s a statue of a woman holding up three stars . Those stars stand for the three big areas in Latvia. It’s not just a historic thing; people in Riga still gather around the monument for big national celebrations or just to remember important parts of their history. There are even guards that stand by the monument, which shows that people here really respect it. It’s not just a piece of history, it’s a big part of what Latvia is about today .

11. Central Market

When you’re on your way to check out the Latvian Academy of Sciences, you’ll probably walk by the Central Market in Riga. This place is huge and it’s all indoors. It’s like a giant supermarket , but way cooler because you can see what shopping is like for people who actually live in Riga. You’ll spot some other visitors, sure, but it’s mostly filled with locals who are there to buy fresh stuff like fruits, veggies, and meat.

The market isn’t in the touristy part of town ; it’s in an older area that’s not as fancy as the Old Town. Some might say it looks a little worn out or not as rich, but that’s what’s so interesting about it. When you travel, seeing the places where real life happens for the people who live there can tell you a lot more about the place than just the shiny tourist spots.

The Central Market is in these big old buildings which were actually built for airships, which is pretty wild! Walking around there is like a crash course in what people in Riga eat and do every day . It’s definitely worth a visit if you want to see the real Riga.

12. Latvian Academy of Sciences

The Latvian Academy of Sciences building is a super interesting spot in Riga . People call it “Stalin’s birthday cake” because it kind of looks like a big, tiered cake. It was built back in the 1950s when Latvia was under Soviet control, and it’s got that huge, kind of overwhelming style that a lot of buildings from that time have.

This is one of the viewpoints I have recommended above, but even if you don’t go up the viewpoint for any reason you should still walk to the base of the building (via the Central market) to see Stalin’s birthday cake for yourself as its super impressive and daunting and spine chilling, all at the same time!

As you walk there from the Central Market, which is this lively place full of everyday Riga life, the Academy of Sciences is like a stark contrast. It’s a reminder of a time when Latvia was part of the Soviet Union and things were really different. So while it might give you the chills, it’s also an important piece of what makes Riga the city it is today and should be on your list if things to do in Riga!

13. National Library of Latvia

Riga is home to lots of unique architecture and the National Library of Latvia, also known as the “ Castle of Light ,” is one of these buildings! Positioned along the Daugava River, the building itself is worth exploring, with its extensive collection of books and unique architectural features.

The architecture is impressive from the outside and the inside and it’s one of the good things to do in Riga on a rainy day or in winter when you need to warm up!

14. Riga River Cruise

Taking a river cruise is like one of those chill ways to see Riga from a whole new side . The city’s split by this big river called the Daugava, and it’s a major part of Riga’s vibe. There’s also this smaller river that curls around the Old Town, which is pretty cool.

We didn’t have time to do a River Cruise due to the evenings getting dark so early but if you are looking for things to do in Riga in Summer or things to do in Riga in Spring, this activity would be so nice and a great way to see the city from another angle.

You get to see all the old and new buildings, the cool bridges, and maybe even some birds chilling by the water. Plus, the guides on these boats usually have a bunch of stories about the places you pass , so it’s not just about the views – you actually learn stuff too. Whether you’re with your friends, family, or on a date, a river cruise is one of those must-dos for a laid-back but awesome look at Riga.

This Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat looks good and is good value!

14. Spa’s in Riga

Riga isn’t just about the sightseeing and history; it’s got a cool surprise with lots of hotels having their own spas. When you’re walking around exploring, it’s pretty nice to know you’ve got a chill spa to come back to and just take a break.

There are actually a lot of Spa Hotels in Riga , or at least hotels with spa’s in them which isn’t always common in cities. I stayed in Hotel Mercure Riga Centre which had a nice spa in it but as we were walking around the city we saw a few buildings that were home to spa’s so make sure you set some time aside to just relax!

Have a look for hotels in Riga with sp a’s here.

15. Husky Dog Sledding

If you visit Riga in the Winter you NEED to look into going dog sledding in the Countryside of Latvia! I contacted Red Fox Tours in advance of my trip who were really helpful, they provisionally booked me and my friend in to go out with them but it depended on the weather. Unfortunately, as you can see by my photos, there wasn’t any snow whilst I was in Riga so they contacted me the day before I arrived to confirm we wouldn’t be able to go which was a shame.

I would definitely recommend going if you can and as I had such a pleasant booking experience with Red Fox Tours I would suggest contacting them for things to do in Riga in winter !

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Riga

In Riga, you’re never far from some amazing eats and cool places to grab a drink . The city’s packed with all sorts of spots, from chill cafes hidden down little side streets to lively pubs where the music’s always going. So, let’s dig into where you can get the best food and drinks in Riga .

16. Folkklubs

If there is one place you need to visit in Riga for food and drinks, it has to be Folkklubs ! In fact I bet you’ll go more than once. It’s a huge basement venue which goes on and on and on, (you’ll see what I mean when you get there), it is very touristy but it’s also very traditional Latvian which is what draw’s people in.

There’s a great vibe, its really really reasonable in price, the staff were friendly and generally, its great place to visit that can’t be missed in Riga!

17. Province

Another popular place that I saw recommended on a lot of blogs is Province ! It’s a small and cosy restaurant , just a few meters from St Marks Church.

It feels very local especially with its decor, and they offer a large range of Latvian food (although not a large range of Vegetarian options, but thats Eastern Europe all over for you) so I would definitely suggest going here for a good, hearty lunch or dinner. And again, for a great price, as starters were €3.00-5.00 and mains were €5.00-9.00!

I hope this list of things to do in Riga has helped you plan your trip!

• For more of my blog posts see:
• 14+ TOP Things To Do in Belgrade, Serbia!
• 6 Places To Visit on a Day Trip from Mostar, Bosnia!
• 4 Viewpoints in Riga For Panoramic Views & How To Visit Them!
• 19 Underrated Destinations in Europe To Visit SOON!
• 15 TOP Things To Do In The Black Forest in Germany!
• 25 EXCITING Things To Do In Bruges, Belgium!
• 2 Days in Oslo | Itinerary for the City & Day Trip Ideas!
• How to Plan a Trip to LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark! Hotels, Passes, Things To Do!

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Tuesday 26th of March 2019

A great post - Very useful as I'm heading to Riga next week!

TheWanderingQuinn

Brilliant!! Definitely check out the food places I recommended, so good!! Enjoy it! :)

Friday 9th of November 2018

Excellent we are off to Xmas markets 4 December 18. This helps with everything else. Thankyou

Saturday 10th of November 2018

That's so good to hear! You'll love it! Just pack plenty of layers! :)

Flora Adams

Wednesday 21st of March 2018

Hello my friend, your images are looking so beautiful. After watching your post I am very excited to see sight seen of Latvia and Estonia. I also booked my travel ticket and arranged a local taxi through the help of Baltic Transfers. That taxi will help me to go anywhere at Riga.

Wednesday 14th of February 2018

This is so helpful for my upcoming trip, thank you very much! :D

Yay good to hear Kel! Enjoy your trip!

Raul (@ilivetotravel)

I hope to visit Latvia soon and this post certainly gives good info on places to see. Thanks!

That’s good to hear! Thanks for reading and commenting Raul!