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15 Best Places to Visit in Latvia

The middle child of the Baltics is perhaps most famed for the hedonistic party joints of its gloriously Gothic and Art Deco capital, or the happening coastal strips of Jurmala just along the coast.

But delve a little deeper into Latvia’s backcountry and you’ll discover Teutonic castles, tsarist palazzos and wild woodlands peppered with bucolic towns.

Check out these best places to visit in Latvia :

Top of the menu for any first-time travelers making their way across the Baltic, Riga is certainly one of the great urban treasures of the region as a whole.

It straddles the channels of the Daugava River on the northern edges of the country, boasting a labyrinthine Old Town area which is considered one of the most handsome in Europe.

Here, the cobbled streets are overshadowed by the dagger-like spires of the mighty St Peter’s Church, while the famously reconstructed House of the Blackheads stands definitely elegant after the tumult of Soviet domination over the city.

Art Nouveau is the name of the game in the city’s outer districts, with masterworks lining the pavements of Alberta iela.

And then – of course – there’s Riga’s legendary nightlife; a medley of hedonistic basement bars and thumping clubs that host locals and stag dos and hen parties aplenty.

Stretching for nearly 30 kilometers along the curved coastline of the Riga Gulf, sun-kissed, breezy Jurmala is the place to go during the hotter months of the year.

With their unique microclimate and salty air, the various towns that form the so-called ‘Latvian Riviera’ here are known for their mineral mud pools and range of curious holistic health treatments.

Beach wise, there are worthy sands running right the way along the breadth of the region, with Majori and Bulduri hailing in as the favourites with their Blue Flag ratings and opportunities for water sporting, collections of shore-side cafes and beach volleyball competitions.

No wonder the likes of Brezhnev and Khrushchev came here to unwind!

3. Daugavpils

The birthplace of one Mark Rothko is now something of the antithesis to Riga in the north.

Nestled between the hills and lakes of the Daugava River valley, the town ticks over to a Russian tune (this is the heartland of Latvia’s Russian-speaking population), and boasts a glorious historical core that is all refined 19th-century architecture courtesy of St Petersburg.

The looming bulwarks of the great Daugavpils Fortress mark one of the militaristic hubs of the Russian Empire too, while the golden-hued onion domes and Orthodox cupolas of the Saints Boris and Gleb Cathedral mimic Kiev and St Basil’s atop the skyline of the town.

It’s easy to see why the Latvian locals have so many legends about Sigulda.

For one, the hills around town come topped with the keeps, bulwarks and crumbling crenulations of one Turaida Castle – Latvia’s answer to Bran of Romania.

Then there are the misty woodlands and groves of the Gauja Valley; a veritable gem of the nation’s backcountry that comes crisscrossed by meandering rivers and meandering hiking trails, dotted with caves (check out the massive caverns of the Gutmanis system) and undulating hills.

Meanwhile, Sigulda itself blooms with cherry trees and pretty regal architecture from before Latvian independence, and offers a chance for skiing and Nordic walking in the winter.

First came the Knights of the Livonian Order, who fortified the small islets that sit washed over by the tree-fringed channels at the start of the Lielupe River.

Then came the dukes of Courland and the imperial tsars of the Russian state, who raised an altogether new fortification here: the one now commanding the middle of the town with its curious whitewashed walls and red-tiled roofs.

But rich and militaristic history aside, Bauska also boasts a charming backwater character, with the river ways flowing through the heart of town lined by ad hoc allotments and farmlands, crossed by tenuous suspension bridges and one pretty market square bustling with local life. Nice.

6. Slitere National Park

Slitere National Park is considered the great natural jewel of the Kurzeme region.

Part cultural museum part hinterland, the area encompasses the beautiful Blue Hills and great stretches of undeveloped coastland, rolling sand dunes and sloping yellow sands washed over by the whitecaps of the Baltic Sea.

The park juts out into the ocean with the beaches of Cape Kolka, while deep virgin forests cover the interior in groves of fir, elm and rare Baltic ivy.

The Slitere National Park also comes dotted with oodles of historic fishing villages, many of which have remained truly off-the-beaten-track and rustic because of the presence of an off-bounds military base in the area during Soviet times.

A picture of traditional Latvian town planning, Cesis has retained all its medieval glory.

Its center is lauded as one of the best-preserved historic districts in the country, coming complete with wide cobblestone streets, pretty, painted timber facades done out in the classic Baltic style, stuccoed churches (check out the gorgeous St John’s Church and its tombs of the Livonian Order knights) and worn courtyards where once Middle Age markets would have thrived.

The piece de resistance of the town has to be Cesis Castle; a formidable medley of palisades and gatehouses that’s shrouded by forests close to the center.

Here, visitors can discover 800 years of history and tales of Swedish, Russian, Slavic and Polish invaders alike.

8. Rundale Palace

A onetime gift from the Russian empress Catherine the Great, the Rundale Palace is the most elegant remnant of imperial rule from Petersburg left in Latvia.

It can be found encircled by blooming rose gardens and English-style lawns close to the town of Bauska.

The designs of the façade and grounds are flamboyant and extravagant in the extreme, oozing with all the Italian-esque opulence and eccentricity you’d expect of a piece by the celebrated architect of the Russian court, Bartolomeo Rastrelli.

Today, thousands of people flock to tour the interior rooms and gardens at Rundale, weaving between the exhibitions of the Palace Museum and spotting visiting luminaries around the grounds.

9. Saulkrasti

Facing the trodden seaside strips of Jurmala across the waters of the Riga Gulf, Saulkrasti is Latvia’s lesser-known summertime retreat.

Quieter and more laid-back than its sun-splashed counterpart on the other side of the bay, it hosts mile upon mile of winding cycle tracks, beautiful ivory sands at the resort town of Pabazi (like Jurmala, Saulkrasti is actually a collection of several towns and villages along the coast) and gorgeous clifftop walking trails through seaside forests.

The 18-meter-high White Dune also rises here on the edge of the River Incupe, offering prime sunset viewing and top-notch picnic spots in the shade of swaying linden and fir trees.

Just a short jaunt out of the castle-topped town of Cesis, travelers will find the ancient cultural landscape of Araisi.

The most visited and best open air museum in the country, the spot chronicles the lifestyles of the early Middle Age tribes of the Baltic region, who made their home on the lake banks here in timber lean-tos and wooden cottages.

There are also the ruins of a castle courtesy of the German Livonian Order on the site, along with oodles of archaeological finds that showcase everything from 14th-century fashion trends to advances in farming and agriculture during the 1300s.

In short, this fascinating reconstructed settlement is perfect for anyone eager to unravel Latvia’s deeper past.

11. Ligatne

Walkers, mountain bikers, campers, horse riders, wildlife lovers and Nordic skiers alike all flock to the small and forest-shrouded town of Ligatne.

As the gateway to the famed Gauja National Park, travelers can expect to uncover striking sandstone gorges and fir-forest-topped escarpments of Devonian rock, the caves of Gutmanala, the beautiful contours of the Erglu Cliffs and countless nature trails that delve deep into the woodlands on the edge of the town.

Ligatne itself is a small and sleepy affair, complete with the curiously out-of-place remnants of a paper-making industry boom and lines of pretty cottages topped with corrugated roofs.

12. Ventspils

The home of the best-preserved Livonian Order castle in the country – which rises against the cobbles of the Old Town here in pretty, yellow-washed facades – and one of the most bustling ports in the Baltic region, Ventspils offers the perfect balance of history and modernity.

Along with its charming Market Square and historic homes on Skolas Street, the city is also known as the flower capital of Latvia.

The moniker is honoured from springtime onwards, with blooming beds of flowers and bulbs erupting all around town and along its portside, seaside promenades alike.

Situated just down the courses of the mighty Daugava River as it carves its way into the very heart of Latvia, the town of Ogre has a history dating all the way back to the early years of the 1200s.

While overlooked by many travelers making their way through the Baltic region, the spot is perfect for those who want to sample raw, day-to-day Latvian life, seeking out stories of regional oppression in the town museum and wondering at monuments to the victims of the communist regime.

Ogre is also worthy of note because of its place on the edge of the pretty Dendrological Park Lazdukalni; a fine reserve for exploring the sheer variety of flora decorating these fringes of Northern Europe.

14. Kuldiga

Old World charm oozes from every crooked cottage and cobblestone lane of Kuldiga; a chocolate box of an historic core that makes its home in the very heart of the Kurzeme.

Timber homes dating from the 1700s form some of the most attractive sights in the city, while arched brick bridges and the elegant Baroque finish of the St Catherine’s Church belie the town’s boom time during the years of the Courland duchy.

And then there are the roaring waterfalls of the Venta River on the outskirts of town, which gush and flow around the verdant riparian habitats and winding tunnels of the Sand cave of Riezupe alike.

15. Liepaja

A patchwork of Art Nouveau and Russian Orthodox, bustling portside industry and blue collar working neighbourhoods, the 90,000-strong city of Liepaja makes for an interesting and immersive visit just a stone’s throw north from the Lithuanian border.

The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, with its soaring spire and colossal organ installation, and the bustling daily markets are two of the major draws here, while the former city of Karosta – a onetime clandestine settlement of Soviet military types on the edge of the modern city – is a must.

Here, the old remnants of tsarist and USSR forts are now being converted into art galleries and cafes, while windswept stretches of beach hug their way along the coast to boot.

15 Best Places to Visit in Latvia:

• Slitere National Park
• Rundale Palace

18 Things to do in Riga | Bucket List for the Charming Capital of Latvia

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 18, 2021  - Last updated: September 13, 2021

Categories Destinations , Europe , Latvia

Riga is Latvia’s vibrant capital – home to around 650,000 people, around a third of the country’s population.

The city is known as a cultural center, with a medieval pedestrian-only Old Town, lively nightlife, and fascinating art and architecture. So there are plenty of things to do in Riga.

The city sits where the Daugava River meets the Baltic Sea. Riga was founded in 1158 by German Traders, and the city is today the largest city in the Baltics.

During ancient times it was a popular trading center for the Vikings on route to Byzantium before becoming a major port for the Hanseatic League.

To this day, you can see remnants of the ancient city in Old Town Vecrīga with its labyrinth alleyways and medieval buildings.

However, this is a city that has moved with the times; it also boasts Art Nouveau architecture, 19th-century wooden houses, pretty parks, museums and markets.

Riga is one of the most popular weekend trips in Europe for tourists from western and northern Europe due to the low cost and value you get in Latvia for your money.

Riga, Latvia, is the perfect long weekend destination to go to the dentist to fix your teeth, to go shopping, or just to relax and try the local food and alcohol since the price for all these activities is much lower than in western Europe.

Most of the city’s sights are located in or around Riga Old Town, so it’s the perfect city to discover on foot.

And if you get tired of walking, you can always do a beer stop in one of the hundreds of bars and restaurants that are dotted around the Old Town.

Take a look at the top Riga things to do and add a few, or all, to your travel plans. With this ultimate itinerary, you’re sure to make the most of your visit.

Top Things To See And Do In Riga.

Spend time in town hall square.

Riga’s Town Hall Square is a great place to begin your city exploration. This large city square boasts historic landmarks like Riga City Hall, Mentzendorff House filled with antiques and fine arts and statues of mythical knights.

However, the most impressive building is the House of the Black Heads. This impressive space was constructed during the Hanseatic era as a space for unmarried merchants and ship owners to party after long months spent at sea.

The structure you see today is not the original, as it was damaged during WWII. However, it was reconstructed in 1999 and brought back to its former glory.

It’s as splendid as it was during medieval times, and you can take a tour inside to uncover its history, learn about the men who were members and see collections of antique silver hidden inside the vault!

Stroll or enjoy a small boat ride in Bastejkalna Park

Beautiful Bastejkalna Park loops around the Freedom Monument on the eastern edge of Old Town Riga.

It’s a verdant, elevated site with winding canals, pretty waterfalls, and tree-lined shores where you can picnic or enjoy the sunshine.

The park is home to over 100 rare trees, shrubs, and abundant flower species which bloom throughout the spring and summer months.

It’s a photographer’s dream, and if you head to Bastion Hill, you can uncover more history as it was once the site of Riga’s old city fortifications.

Take in the Freedom Monument of Riga

Whilst you’re in this area of the city, visit the landmark dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives during the Latvian War of Independence from 1918 -1920.

The Freedom Monument – a statue of a woman holding 3 golden stars aloft, stands 42 meters tall, built from travertine and red granite as an everlasting symbol of the Latvia Capital.

Around the base, several reliefs depict images from Latvian culture and historic events, alongside a record of national heroes.

Visit the Old Centre of Vecrīga

Riga’s Old Town, known as Vecrīga, is the beating heart of the city.

Nestled close to the Daugava River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is peppered with cobbled streets, art galleries, shops and charming restaurants. There is plenty of things to do in Riga’s Old Town, and all of it is sure to knock your socks off.

Buildings are colorful, and Lutheran Churches like Saint Peter’s and Riga Cathedral are ripe for discovery and you.

You can enter the city in the same way as traders did in medieval times, through the historic Swedish Gate.

After sightseeing, sit on a terrace, sip coffee and watch tourists as they capture memories on their phones. Or head to a bar and try Latvia’s national drink – the Riga Black Balsam – a blend of roots, spices and herbs.

Don’t leave Vecrīga without trying a pastry of the same name.

This choux pastry treat is served in cafes across the Old Town. It is filled with vanilla cream, curd and dusted with powdery icing sugar! Delicious!

Browse the Museum of the Occupation

In complete contrast to the charming, romantic buildings of Vecrīga, you’ll find the Museum of Occupation of Latvia.

This oppressive charcoal grey block was built to educate locals and tourists about the 51-year occupation of Latvia by the USSR.

There are over 60,000 exhibits inside, including a reconstruction of a Gulag barrack, video testimonials from refugees and thousands of objects which were collected during this time.

It’s an interesting place if you’re interested in Latvian history and politics and is located close to the Old Town.

Have a look at some cats on a roof

Almost as famous and maybe even more famous than the “House of Blackheads” is the yellow buildings with two metal cats on the roof.

It’s one of the sights you would never know was a sight if you walked past it or nobody told you it’s famous. The cats, with arched backs and raised tails, were apparently placed on the roof because of a grudge.

Read about the legends of the rats on the roof .

Explore one of the many museums

There are tons of different Museums located in and around Riga, besides the fascinating Museum of Occupation. There’s the Sun Museum, showing the history of sun mythology and its role in Latvian culture.

You also got a Chocolate Museum in the northern part of Riga, if you want to make things a little tastier.

And then you’ve got the important Latvian Holocaust museum telling the grim history from WW2. These museums can add a lot to your cultural experience of the capital of Latvia and will give you more information on this fascinating city.

But a more positive one is the Riga Motor Museum.

If you adore classic cars and how they are designed and constructed, a visit to Riga Motor Museum is a great choice for a half-day trip.

This fabulous museum, just 15 minutes drive from the Old Town, offers an interactive journey into the diverse world of motors.

With hundreds of antique vehicles to view, you’ll learn about the individuals and milestones which shaped the motor industry. You’ll also see cars dating from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s, the Kremlin collection and those developed by the Soviet car industry.

There are motorsport vehicles and cult cars inside, plus a museum, especially for kids with plenty of hands-on activities!

Shop for food at Riga Central Market

Fresh local produce has been sold on Daugava River’s shores since the 1500s, and today, the only thing which has changed is that the stalls are all in one place.

Riga Central Market is set inside several repurposed German zeppelin hangars with Art Deco and Neoclassicism designs.

Each hangar has been transformed into individual pavilions specializing in dairy, vegetables, meat, or fish.

Over 100,000 people enter the covered market each day, shopping for fresh produce and ingredients for their favorite dishes. And as there are over 3,000 vendors, there’s plenty of choices!

Shop here for picnic food before venturing to Bastejkalna Park or simply visit to admire the innovative architecture. It’s also a great opportunity to take in local life in Latvia and admire the foods produced from its lands. 

Discover Art Nouveau in the city of Riga

Museum Riga Art Nouveau Centre is the only place in the Baltic States dedicated to all Art Nouveau.

There are almost 800 buildings in the Art Nouveau architectural style (that means “new art”) ø ocated around Riga. Art Nouveau refers to an artistic movement that swept through Europe between the 1880s and World War 1).

Art nouveau is characterized by flowing lines, curves, and whimsical incorporation of elements inspired by the natural world. In 1997, the city was added to the UNESCO world heritage list.

This museum is a haven for all history and architecture enthusiasts.

In addition to buildings, the museum showcases Art Nouveau objects ranging from furniture and crockery to interior design and clothing. Riga is a Mecca for fans of this artistic and architectural style and makes for some great Riga sightseeing.

Following your museum tour, take a walk along adjoining Albert Street – a veritable outdoor art gallery lined with impressive Art Nouveau houses – many of which are listed as state monuments.

Experience Latvian National Opera performances

Within a short walk of the famous Riga meeting spot – Laima Clock is the stately 19th century Latvian National Opera House. Painted in white with colonnades and bas relief motifs, this building is a Neoclassical triumph.

Set amidst picturesque parks and trickling ornate fountains, the theatre was founded in 1912 and is impressive both inside and out.

Gilded balconies and seats of red velvet sweep in a horseshoe around the stage where opera singers share their craft and orchestras accompany with melodic precision.

The first performance at the opera house was Wagner’s Flying Dutchman in 1919. Ever since, it’s been a hotspot for the world’s most famous operas and ballets, including Faust and Madame Butterfly.

Tickets can be booked online via their website should you wish to see a performance whilst staying in Riga.

Visit the Bremen Town Musicians Statue ( the animal statue)

On the backside of St.Peter’s Church, it’s a small statue of 4 animals on top of each other, a donkey, a dog, a cat and a rooster.

The statue is characters from the Town Musicians of Breman, a Brothers Grimm Fairytale, and is a  replica of the original statue that’s located in Breman, Germany.

Visit the Moscow building of Riga.

If you have previously been to Moscow, the capital building will look familiar, which is no wonder since it´s similar to the seven sisters in Moscow (7 skyscrapers in Moscow, Russia)

The ones located in Moscow are slightly more impressive but also harder to visit.

The one located in Riga is actually the Latvian Academy of Sciences which was built in 1953.

There is a viewpoint on the balcony on the 17th floor, which offers fantastic views over the city.

Sample Latvian cuisine

If you want to get to know Riga locals, get to know their food! Lunch is a big deal in this country, an important meal where you can sit and discuss events and chat with family and friends in pleasant surroundings.

There are many restaurants in the city serving traditional Latvian cuisine, but if you seek something a little different, try Entresol, which offers delicious Latvian tapas (Knapas) and The Catch, which serves Latvian fresh fish crafted into delicate Japanese style sushi.

Another good way to sample Latvian cuisine is by taking a city food tour.

Eat Riga offers food tasting, beer and black balsam tours, as well as Latvian cooking classes where you can learn practical cooking skills under the supervision of a head chef and taste all of your creations afterward! This will also allow you to take the skills home so that you can create your favorite Latvian dishes for your friends and family.

If you need some help with finding cheap places to eat in Riga, so are this a great guide .

Enjoy a delicious Riga craft beer.

The locals in Riga love beer. There are tons of microbrews and beer houses around the city, with more and more opening up every month.

My favourite beer house is FolkKlubs Ala Pagrabs. It’s located on the edge of the old city. And it has 28 beers on taps, most of them brewed in the building, live music, and great food.

Wondering, “how much is a pint in Riga?  Be aware that beer prices can vary a lot in Latvia’s capital , from 8 Euro a pint to 2 Euro a pint.

Try Riga Balsam, the local liquor of Latvia.

Riga Balsam is to Latvia what Sake is to Japan, what Grapa is to Italians or what Coca-Cola is to the USA.

The Riga Balsam is a herbal liqueur made with many different natural ingredients mixed with pure vodka. You can get it in bottles of 30%, 40%, and 45%   alcohol percentages . It’s served in “every” restaurant and bar around the city. Riga Balsa  goes well with every Latvian dish – at least according to the locals.

Admire the Three Brothers  

The Three Brothers aren’t people; they are three historic buildings in Old Town Riga!

These houses are the oldest dwellings in the city. They’re located on Maza Pils Street, and between them, they showcase Gothic, Renaissance, Dutch Mannerism and Baroque architecture.

They are spectacular to photograph (preferably with a travel polaroid camera ) and admire, and as they are in the heart of Old Town Vecrīga, they can easily be found on a walking tour of Riga attractions.

See Riga from the water

As Riga was once a Hanseatic port and most of its trading took place on the water, it would be a pity not to see the city from a similar perspective.

Fortunately, you can enjoy canal boat tours, rent kayaks, charter yachts or even join like-minded adventurers on a river ship journey.

As you glide past Riga’s majestic spires, lush parks and historic structures, see them through the eyes of ancient mariners and imagine life in this Baltic Sea trading post all those years ago.

Have a drink and enjoy the view over Riga.

There are a few fantastic viewpoints around Riga, but one of the easiest to visit is the 26th-floor Sky-bar at Raddison Blu that is my favorite . It offers an almost 360-degree view of the city. The beer/drink prices are also surprisingly low.

Take a day trip to the Beach

When you mention Latvia to friends, you don’t often think of beaches, yet just 40 kilometers from Riga, you can be sitting on powdery sands or watching the sunset at Jūrmala!

This beach stretches for over 30 kilometers and gets pretty busy during the summer months, with city dwellers heading for the coast.

It’s a bustling holiday resort with shops, bars, restaurants and museums, and surrounded by nature with pine forests to hike through and cross country trails to ski in winter!

If you’re going to do one cultural thing in Jūrmala during your visit, venture to the Open Air Museum.

This hidden treasure in a nearby nature park is dotted with old wooden houses, remnants of the town’s fishing village.

Embrace the Great Outdoors Near Sigulda

Just over 50 kilometers northeast of Riga is the city of Sigulda, the gateway to ancient Gauja National Park.

This park is the oldest in Latvia, and the largest – sprinkled with natural springs, lakes, forests and historic monuments. There are many exciting activities to participate in nearby.

You can visit an old paper mill village, try your hand at ancient games and crafts in Cesis Old Town or visit Araisi Lake Castle.

Alternatively, indulge in adrenaline sports with bungee jumping or bobsleighing.

The forests are teeming with flora and fauna, and if you take a ride in the cable car, you can see everything from an elevated perspective.

How to Get to Riga

Thanks to the Baltic’s busiest airport – Riga International, major airlines can transport visitors from most European cities and former Soviet nations to the Latvian capital by air with little fuss.

To reach the old city of Riga from Riga airport, take bus No. 22 or minibus No. 222. The ride takes about 30-40min. And costs about 1,15 Euro.

If you prefer overland travel, Riga has regular bus services to and from Vilnius in neighboring Lithuania and Tallinn, the capital of Estonia .

There are also coach services operating between Russia, Belarus, Poland and Western European cities.

The Latvian city is also accessible by train from Russia – with a journey time of 12 hours from Minsk, 10 hours from Saint Petersburg and 16 hours from Moscow – however, be aware that border controls operate on these lines.

Visitors can also travel by train to Riga from Estonia daily, and as both countries are in the Schengen area, there are no border controls.

If you wish to travel via ship to Riga, Baltic Sea crossings operate from Scandinavia on a regular basis throughout the year.

Once you’ve arrived in Riga, it’s pretty easy to get around.

Riga is compact enough to walk, or cycle, plus local trams, taxis and buses connect you to the airport and towns outside the city.

Final Thoughts What to do in Riga

There is so much to see and do in the capital of Latvia. Whether you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the culture of the country, or you’re wanting to dive headfirst into their amazing cuisine, this list has you covered. So pack your bags, and enjoy this unusual travel destination!

Sunday 12th of January 2020

The Art Nouveau buildings in Riga are so beautiful, i really had a great time there!

lepassagebureu

Saturday 5th of October 2019

Nice post, Thanks for sharing.

Sunday 16th of September 2018

I don't know whether it's just me or if everyone else encountering issues with your website. It appears like some of the text in your content are running off the screen. Can someone else please comment and let me know if this is happening to them as well? This may be a issue with my web browser because I've had this happen before. Thanks

Wednesday 29th of November 2017

Nice list! I’ll have to print this out and show to our “local gide” from https://www.showaround.com and ask for the history behind each as well! I’m so excited to visit this city in spring (is April Spring there? Have to check this out!). Thanks for the ideas though!

Monday 26th of December 2016

Traveled to Riga last October and I have to say, it was such an amazing surprise, we simply adored Latvia in general. The post was such a nice look into everything we saw <3

30 Unique Things To Do In Riga: The Rising Star Of The Baltics!

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Categories Latvia , City Secrets Unveiled

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Nestled on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of Latvia’s River Daugava, Riga is so much more than the picturesque Gothic city it initially appears to be. Of course, those spires and the medieval Old Town are part of what makes it so attractive, but there’s also a lot going on beneath the surface.

Behind the wooden buildings and cobblestones, you’ll find a vibrant cultural center full to bursting with contemporary art, hip bars, and innovative food offerings.

It’s an architecture buff’s dream destination; walking along streets lined with candy-colored buildings and art Nouveau creations makes you feel like you’re in a film set. The new national library, by local architect Gunnar Birkerts, is another arresting sight.

Aside from the living museum of the city itself, you’ll also find tonnes of fascinating museums telling you more about the history and culture of Latvia and its capital.

Spend your days here, or in the many art galleries, soaking up the surroundings and stopping the bar at the Kanepes culture center or famous Café Osiris for refreshment. Not for nothing is it (occasionally) dubbed the ‘Baltic Berlin.’ Edgy bars doubling as art spaces, techno clubs, and innovative pop-up eateries abound, particularly in the Old Town.

With the rise of Air Baltic making Riga a growing aviation hub, increased cruise connections to Scandinavian ports, and its central location in the region is it any wonder Riga is experiencing a modern-day renaissance with travelers? 

Not to mention all the fabulously quirky concept hotels with very affordable price tags…

Make no mistake, though – this is a city with a difference. It’s quirky, eclectic, and 100% itself. What else would you expect from a city that stakes a claim to the first-ever public Christmas tree? It might get comparisons to Tallinn  or London , but Riga has a totally unique character. You’ll find a whole wealth of unusual things to do in Riga, which is why we’d encourage you to embrace the strangeness.

Why go to the same places as everyone else when there are things like the following options on offer?

Page Contents

1. Gaze In Awe At The Impressive House of the Blackheads

2. understand the country’s past at the museum of the occupation of latvia, 3. explore the spirited riga central market, 4. get cultured at the latvian national museum of art, 5. learn about riga’s history of conflict at the powder tower, 6. visit the animals at riga zoo, 7. feel the need for speed at the riga motor museum, 8. splash about at līvu akvaparks, 9. dive into a storybook-fairytale at the latvian ethnographic open-air museum , 10. soar above the city at the riga radio and tv tower, 11. explore the museum of the history of riga and navigation, 12. make a pilgrimage to the transcendant hill of crosses , 13. take a dip in the baltic at jumala beach, 14. indulge your sweet tooth at laima chocolate museum, 15. dream of taking flight at the riga aviation museum, 16. embrace your inner train enthusiast at the latvian railway history museum, 17. hang with local hipsters at the tallinn street quarter , 18. drop-in to the kalnciema ezītis miglā tram bar , 19. get really off-the-beaten-track in sabile, 20. discover modern art in a beautiful setting at the pedvale open air museum, 21. relax in bourgeois opulence at the art cafe sienna, 22. wallow in literary magnificence at the national library of latvia, 23. sip sophisticated cocktails above it all at the radisson blu, 24. unearth cold-war era treasure at a soviet junk yard, 25. stand atop the protrusive latvian academy of sciences, 26. treat yourself to a night at the latvian national opera, 27. meader through the kronvalda urban park, 28. show someone you care at the sakta flower market, 29. study the history of art nouveau in riga.

• 30. Treat Yourself To Sheer Opulence At The Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga 

OK, this isn’t as weird as it sounds, but it’s certainly unusual. The Blackheads were a guild of unmarried German merchants who built this ornate building in Riga’s old town 1344. Meant as a venue for celebrations, meetings, and conferences, it could arguably be described as an early form of fraternity house (with fewer games of beer pong, we’re guessing!).

The façade is famously opulent, and the interior gives it a run for its money, with gilding, crystal chandeliers, and coats of arms.

What’s totally fascinating about visiting the House of the Blackheads now is that it’s actually a new building. After being destroyed by bombing during the Second World War, an exact replica was rebuilt during the 1990s using the original blueprints.

Even more amazingly, this fulfills a prophecy once written on the building’s doors: If I am destined to ruination, I will be rebuilt by you . It is worth visiting to learn more about this story alone!

While this might not sound like the most cheerful museum, it makes a significant impact. Established in the early 1990s in a Soviet-era building from 1971, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia documents the 51-period of occupation that started with the USSR in 1940, continued with Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1944 and ended with the USSR again from 1944 to 1991.

It might be unusual to see such a singular focus in a history museum, but these occupations were a significant part of the country’s history.

The exhibitions (temporarily housed in the former US embassy until the official building reopens in 2020) are fascinating but often disturbing. They include a recreation of a gulag cell, first-hand accounts of deportations and imprisonments, and evidence of the resistance.

There’s a critical audio-visual archive that contributes to documentary films. The stated aim is to remember victims of occupation and remind the world of the crimes Latvia suffered; visiting is a mark of respect and understanding.

 For those seeking further interest in this sad period of history, you might also consider this Dark Years walking tour.

One of the largest indoor markets in Europe, the Riga Central Market, is located just outside the Old Town. It is one of the most distinguished structures built in Latvia during the 20th century and has such has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list together with Old Riga in 1998.

The central constructions of the market are five sheds assembled from the metal frameworks of old German Zeppelin hangars that then incorporate Neoclassicism and Art Deco motifs. Indeed a sight to behold — and five of only nine Zeppelin hangars remaining in the world.

Take the time to immerse yourself in local life here as you explore the lively market — or why not opt for a food tour if you want to learn more about Latvian cuisine and cultural traditions. Either way, you can explore a variety of local specialties like smoked meats, cheeses, herring, and hemp butter – or taste modern gourmet cuisine in the new food hall.

Much like Riga, the Central Market is currently experiencing a considerable revitalization project, so while it may be in flux, it is still unquestionably worth a visit.

Over 52,000 works of art reside in this beautiful Baroque building on the Esplanade. Recently renovated to add an underground exhibition space, much-needed upgrades, and an attractive restaurant, this 1905 building is an impressive spot even when you don’t factor in the extensive art collection within.

It shows the development of Latvian art from the 18 th century to the present day and includes works by masters of the Latvian painting school such as Purvītis, Rozentāls, Annuss, and Valters (don’t worry if you haven’t heard of them!).

There are also often exciting temporary exhibitions to supplement this education in local art.

This cylindrical tower is the sole survivor out of 18 that was built in the 14 th century to strengthen the defense of the old city wall.

It now proudly stands firm as home to the Latvian War Museum, having acted formerly as a prison, a torture chamber, a gunpowder store, and a frat house (not sure which is the most gruesome, really!). The walls are 2.5m thick, which was obviously effective as there are nine Russian cannonballs that didn’t make it through built into the walls by the stonemasons – clearly ones with a sense of humor!

As you’d expect from a country so unfortunately ravaged by war, the Latvian War Museum has an extensive collection covering the struggles of the 20 th century, from the occupations to the fight for independence and the development of the country’s army.

With photographs, memorabilia, and life-size wax figurines, the inside of the Powder Tower is as impressive as the exterior.

Founded in 1912, Riga Zoo offers you the opportunity to get out of the city and into the hilly pine forest where it’s located. It’s not the biggest zoo we’ve ever been to (understatement), but it’s in a gorgeous location and has over 400 species of animals living there. Among the trees of Mezaparks and along the side of Lake Kisezers, a range of wildlife coexists.

Local Latvian animals hang out in the petting zoo where visitors can cuddle or pet them. More exotic animals include carnivores like the Amur Tigers, Galapagos Tortoise , a Red Kangaroo, and playful seals. Regular feeding shows provide you with extra information about these animals and their lifestyles.

Whether you’re interested in cars or not, this is an absolute gem of a museum. It’s actually the most extensive antique vehicle museum in the Baltic countries and boasts an extremely impressive collection.

It’s a little bit outside the city center, but the journey to get there is worth it when you get to see not only the cars that belonged to USSR dignitaries like Stalin, Gorky, and Khrushchev but life-sized models of those men as well (warts and all).

You’ll also find vintage Rolls Royces and BMWs alongside the oldest car in the world – the Benz Patent Motorwagen. When you get tired of looking at these cars, have a go on one of the interactive driving games or get a picture of you at a Soviet parade using a green screen.

The quirky touches are classic Riga!

When you want a break from all the historical sightseeing, Livu Aquapark is the place to come. Located on the edge of a lake, this water park boasts both indoor and outdoor fun (outside is summer only, of course!).

There are three areas – one for all the splashing around, one for families and one spa and sauna area to relax in. Between these, you’ll find Kamikaze, a slide for adrenalin junkies that’s the height of a 5-story building, a 45-meter water loop, an almost too realistic wave pool, and a tornado pipe.

If all this sounds a bit overwhelming, or you like to relax after going on all the slides, then Livu’s got you covered. With a Tropic Wood Zone for more sedate playing, four different saunas, and a vast range of spa treatments, you’ll definitely leave feeling ready to take on the world!

One of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe is located on the lightly wooded banks of Lake Jugla, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Riga. 

This museum is unique even when contrasted to similar museums around the world since it began to collect its exhibitions before the war. Thus many of its exhibition objects are still in outstanding condition and the only remaining examples left in many cases. The idea for the new museum was motivated by other open-air museums in Scandinavia, but particularly Skansen in  Stockholm . 

One hundred eighteen historical buildings from all four of Latvia’s provinces – Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale, and Latgale, were put on display at the museum with most of them were originally constructed between the 17th century up until the 1930s.

Sadly, however, after WW2, the new Soviet powers that be didn’t understand the nature of the museum and declared it ideologically incorrect. Many documents were also lost during this period, as were most staff as they were repressed or forced into exile. In the late 1960s, the museum saw a small renaissance, and when Latvia regained its independence in 1991, the museum was expanded. More high-value objects were placed into the museum resulting in the exceptional offering available today. 

You can spend a few hours wandering around here in the vast, silent forest – stuck in a sort of magical time-warp – and if you get hungry, there is a beautiful café hidden in the middle with traditional delights and cute picnic tables. The Latvian Honey Cake here is simply not to be missed. 

Hold the phone, did you know this was the tallest tower in the European Union (and the 3 rd tallest in Europe)? For some reason, our minds still thought it was the Eiffel Tower!

Unfortunately, it’s currently closed until 2023 due to an extensive renovation project. Yet, when that’s complete, there will be a restaurant at about 100 meters, a Foucault pendulum, and the opportunity to see the tower’s bomb shelter.

It began transmission in 1986 and has a projected service life of 250 years, so it will be interesting to see how the use of Riga Radio Tower changes as technology develops. For visitors to Riga, it’s mainly interesting to see the incredible views from the observation platform at 97 meters.

With its slightly convoluted name, this is the oldest public museum in the Baltic. It’s located in the old cathedral monastery, which gives the historic collection an even more exclusive feel. It started life in 1773 as the private collection of a local doctor and has since grown into a substantial exhibition showing the history of Riga.

Artifacts date back to the Bronze Age with examples of pre-Christian jewelry and continue up to World War II. The navigation aspect of the name refers to the collection of instruments, ship models, maps, and plans that give an insight into how people found their way in times gone by.

The combination of the unique setting and the large group of pieces make it one of the most unusual things to do in Riga.

Not technically even in Latvia, but easily reachable on a day trip so worth a mention. The Hill of Crosses, or Kryziu Kalnas in Lithuanian, is a compilation of over 250,000 wooden crosses established on a small hill in Šiauliai in Northern Lithuania.

It is one of the most sensational sights in the Baltic countries — it is extraordinarily eery to wander around its crowded pathways, examining the mountains of crosses placed over time here. 

The Hill of Crosses signifies the peaceful endurance of the Lithuanian people despite the threats they faced throughout history. The tradition began after an unsuccessful rebellion against Russian authorities in 1831 as families could not locate bodies of perished rebels. Hence, they placed symbolic crosses in place of a former hill fort instead.

The site took on a particular significance during the Soviet Occupation as Lithuanians left crosses at the site to manifest their devotion to their original identity, religion, and heritage – although the Soviets endeavored to remove new crosses, and even bulldozed the site on three separate dates. Its importance to Lithunains was fixed; however, in 1993, when Pope John Paul II visited and declared it a place for hope, peace, love, and sacrifice.

There are many ways to make a pilgrimage to this site. Still, one of the easiest is to enjoy a comfortable round-trip tour by private vehicle , learn more about the fascinating historical sites from your driver, and stopping as many times as you like to admire the views and take photos.

Head out of town to Latvia’s biggest and most famous beach resort, less than an hour from Riga by train or car. Spend the day taking in the glittering Baltic coast, relaxing on the white sand beaches of Jurmala, and roaming by bike around the old wooden neighborhoods. If you are feeling a little more wealthy, you could also indulge in a luxuriating spa day, or treat yourself to a meal at any of the area’s fine restaurants. 

When Latvia was part of the Soviet Union, Jurmala was a popular holiday resort for high-level Communist Party officials. Beach-houses and concrete hotels remain from this era, although many have fallen into disrepair. 

In the past decade, the fortunes of Jurmala have once again risen as the town became a well-known bolt hole of wealthy Russians looking to hide their fortunes. If for no other reason, a trip is warranted here as the contrast between Jurmala and Riga is fascinating in and of itself. 

Don’t tell your dentist you’re coming here, of course, but the historic Laima Chocolate museum is too much temptation to resist.

You can smell the cocoa from several streets away, so simply follow your nose to find yourself in this interactive museum dedicated to all things chocolate. Laima started in 1870, is Latvia’s biggest chocolate producer, and the owner opened the museum on the site of the factory to entice more people in.

Here you’ll learn about the chocolate-making traditions of the company through exciting videos, create videos of your own, learn how to make some of the treats the company produces, and even get a message printed on a chocolate bar. It’s great for kids – or adult chocoholics!  

Whether you’re a fan of the world in the skies or not, this eclectic outdoor museum is a fun place to visit. It’s logically located on the grounds of Riga International Airport, meaning that while you admire the collection of aircraft from the past while the present-day versions zoom overhead.

What’s even more fascinating about it, is that it all exists because of one keen aviation engineer, Victor Talpa. As well as building one of Europe’s more unique collections, Talpa also established a Young Pilots’ Club for aviation-keen teens.

In 1997 the museum was fully privatized and opened up to the public. All the exhibits are outdoors, so are slightly weather-worn, but for those interested in the Cold War or engineering, it’s a must-see.  The planes range from the huge Mi-6 helicopter to MiG fighter jets and demonstrate the evolution of aviation. Given its location, it’s the ideal place to visit when you’ve got an hour or so to kill before your flight.

Reading this list, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Latvians have a bit of a thing for transport; however, the museums on this theme do tend to be among the most quirky and unusual things to do in Riga. The Latvian Railway History Museum is no exception to this rule.

Located in a former engine warehouse from the 19 th century, it features a reconstructed waiting room, offices for the station master and ticket counters, and a train platform. You can also get a look at diesel and electric locomotives, including a 1930s passenger carriage and a prison car from the Tsarist era.

As well as these delights, you also inspect the vast collection of memorabilia, which includes photographs and postcards, uniforms, and tickets. Something about this patchwork of items from history makes the exhibit more real, as you get a sense of all the people who used to go about their daily lives on the Latvian railways.

One of the current hotspots of hipster Riga, this industrial zone, was used as a depot for ambulance cars in Soviet times but is now finding a new lease on life thanks to several bars and art venues.

Head by during the day to admire the range of street art and post-industrial decay vibes (or just grab a coffee from the newly opened Rocket Bean Roastery) – but for maximum effect head in the evening or night to enjoy food, craft beer, and a buzzing nightlife scene of  Tallinas Kvartāla Ezītis Miglā.

Known for endless summer parties, long conversations, and beautiful encounters, this utterly hipster spot found in a former mechanics garage offers food, refreshing delicious cocktails, and an environment where everyone can feel at home well into the night. Various arts, music, and other events take place here regularly – and the outdoor terrace in summer is one of Riga’s hidden gems.

Another in favor location of the Ezītis miglā hipster chain of bars. Tucked away on the other side of Riga across the river, in a lively art and entertainment enclave surrounded by beautifully restored wooden buildings.

Explore the area, before settling in with a glass (or bottle) of wine in their outdoor seating area with old hipster trams or inside if the weather is refusing to co-operate. Opened in 2018, the Ezītis Miglā Tram Bar is an absolute must-visit and adds to the creative spirit of the surrounding Quarter.  

The Ezītis Miglā chain is wildly popular with locals, as each location offers an entirely different concept and design theme. While currently, these locations are our favorite, this is likely to change as Ezītis Miglā expands. 

Sabile is a gorgeous little town around 1.5 hours from Riga that was formed in the ancient valley of the River Abava in the 13th-14th century by traders and craftsmen. Today, the Old Town of Sabile mesmerizes its sightseers with an exceptional mix of history, wine, and visual delights. 

A place to pause, take time and let small-town life take you over, Sabile allows you a glimpse into what life in Latvia is like outside of Riga. Sabile Wine Hill is the most famous attraction in the city and was previously listed in the Guinness World Record Book as the most northerly vineyard in the world – before Norway overtook it. Thanks, global warming…

There is also a wooden toy museum, beautiful hikes, cute restaurants, and the infamous Doll Garden of Sabile, a somewhat disturbing garden chock-full of hundreds of endlessly smiling doll people. A wonderful day trip from Riga, reachable either by public bus or by hiring a car. We recommend combining it with the nearby Pedvale Open Air Museum.

In the northwest part of Latvia, next to Sabile town, you will find the curios Pedvale Open Air Museum – one of the most wonderful and unexpected attractions we visited in Latvia. After the restoration of the independence of Latvia, in 1991, the sculptor Ojārs Arvīds Feldbergs obtained the manors of Firckspedvale and Brinkenpedvale and started developing the Open-air Art Museum and in 2018 opened the Pedvale Art Park to the public.

The terrain of the Art Park encompassed almost 100 hectares of meadows, bushes, steep slopes, deep valleys, streams, and a winding river – all of which visitors are free to wander around and visit.  The conception of the Art Park is to integrate the natural landscape, cultural heritage, and art into a single space, and artists who participate in the museum’s creative projects are encouraged to get inspiration from the surrounding area and to use the natural materials available there.

You will need to hire a car to get here or take a bus and walk from Sabile, but there is no way you will regret the extra effort as you spend hours in awe of the interaction of art and nature in this exceptional space.

A hidden gem of Riga that you will either love or hate, the Art Café Sienna offers an escape from the modern world and a return to centuries-old values.

Step back into a bygone era, complete with antique furniture, porcelain, and attentive butler service. This is a ‘café’ to simply be leisurely and enjoy the atmosphere with high-quality coffee, teas from around the world, French-style desserts, and cakes.

It’s like drinking in someone’s lovely living room, and the service here is second to none. Unique, but certainly not to everyone’s taste. It is seriously expensive, though, so unless you are a Russian oligarch, we recommend staying away from the champagne and cognac and just going for one of the more affordable coffee or tea sets.

A commanding landmark on the Riga cityscape, the National Library of Latvia was open in 2014 and yes — is equally impressive inside and out.

Since the re-establishment of Latvian national independence in 1991, there have been calls for a National Library of Latvia to provide internet access to residents and supporting research and lifelong education. This building, designed by noted Latvian-American architect Gunnar Birkerts, ensures such needs are met. 

In the past, it appears they were only open to locals, but that is no longer true. Non-residents just need to borrow a guest pass at the front desk. From there, head up to the 7th floor for magnificent views of the Old Town. Also, there is a rotating array of exhibitions here which may also capture your attention – not to mention the unsurpassed collection of Latvian literature housed within.

The Library’s collection today comprises more than 5 million titles, including approximately 18,000 manuscripts from the 14th century up to modern times.

The highest bar in Riga, and one of its most sophisticated, is the Skyline Bar, located on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Spa Hotel.  Levitate your senses amidst modern surroundings with specially crafted signature cocktails or Asian tapas. Entrance is free most weeknights or before 10 pm on weekends — and prices are very affordable, given its premium location.

If you are looking for a more classic drink, why not consider a Tanqueray Martini with a twist or a Prohibition-Era White Lady …

For non-drinkers, their mocktail menu is also one of the best in town, all of which are perfectly matched with tantalizing dishes the likes of shredded duck spring rolls and Vietnamese sliders.

We found Skyline Bar to be surprisingly empty around sunset, so either come early or late at night to enjoy your libations here without the crowds. Occupying the entire floor, you can perch yourself on either side of the room for panoramic views over the Old Town or out over the sprawling suburbs of Riga. Sure, the building itself is something of a monstrosity and a blight on the skyline – but since it’s there, you might as well use it! 

Thrift shopping doesn’t exactly have a chic reputation in the post–Soviet Union. Whereas in prosperous Western nations you might find cast-off couture and designer homewares, in the junkyards of Latvia you are more likely to come across gas masks, hyper-outdated electronics, hammer and sickle memorabilia, war medals — or 1980s clothes so wildly outrageous you couldn’t even wear them ironically. 

Secondhand shopping in the USSR was the ultimate sign of poverty, and today, these junkyards that dot the inner suburbs of Latvia are a reminder of many of the economic crises and hardships of the past. Things are by no means easy here today, but the Latvia of today is not that Latvia of twenty years ago — the time in which these junkyards seem perpetually stuck.

Still, as far as cultural discovery and urban adventuring go, an inquisitive tourist should not pass up on the opportunity to poke around and see what you find. Flea markets, after all, are possibly as crucial in understanding a country’s history as any museum — something we discovered at the Campo de Santa Clara Flea Market of Lisbon.

Where else can you find parts for a hundred-year-old Russian Samovar or a military lighter made from a cartridge case? One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. The Latgale Tirgus flea market is the easiest of these junkyards to find for your average tourist, but keep your eyes peeled while exploring  Riga as there are plenty more. 

One of the most divisive buildings in Lativa, people will either love it or hate it – but there is no denying: The Latvian Academy of Sciences 107-metre building stands out from the crowd. 

The first high-rise in Latvia, the official science academy of Latvia, has been a dominating fixture of the Riga cityscape since its completion in 1961. In large part-financed from “voluntary donations” deducted from the salaries of the Latvian rural population, the building was intended as a dormitory for collective farm workers who come to Riga – but was never used for the purpose.

The tower has a total of 766 rooms on the 23 floors, which today are occupied by scientists, researchers, historians, and various companies. The spire’s five-pointed star was removed in 1991 after Lativa Independence, but inside you can still see hammer and sickle decorations as well as Latvian folk ornaments and motifs. 

For anyone who has traveled to other post-Soviet destinations, it may be no surprise The Latvian Academy of Sciences is a cousin to similar Stalin-era skyscrapers built at the time – most notably the main building of Moscow State University.  The view of the Riga cityscape is now open to the general public, who can pay a few euros to view the city panoramas available from the 17th-floor balcony. The ground floor also houses a concert hall with occasional performances for audiences of all kinds.

The National Opera House of Lativa was constructed in 1863 for the then German-speaking City Theatre and has been refurbished several times. After independence in 1995, the entire building of the Latvian National Opera underwent large-scale reconstruction and restoration to bring it up to modern standards. In 2001, a modern annex was added in 2001 with a smaller 300-seat New Hall.

Today the noble Latvian National Opera can accommodate audiences of up to a thousand people and showcases an excellent range of modern ballet and exquisite operas. You can buy official tickets to Latvian National Opera for a little as five euros, so there really is no excuse not to go. Much like we discovered in Minsk , in the Soviet Union ballet was taken away from the autocratic caste and given back to the masses, and fostered as ‘art for the people.’ This also helps explains why opera and ballet remain so popular here today — and at such affordable prices. 

At the Latvian National Opera, aka Riga’s White House, an average of seven new productions are offered each year, preserving a balance between ballet and opera. In total, there are around 200 performances and several concerts a season at the Latvian National Opera. So chances are, there is a show of some sort when you are visiting Riga.

Kronvalda Park is the oldest park in Riga and remains one of its most beloved – in large part due to its easily accessible location just outside of the Old Town. 11.92 hectares in total, Kronvalda Park is filled with 100 species of exotic trees, 22 local plants, beautiful sculptures, and even a city canal that splits the park into two parts. It is also home to the largest willow tree in Latvia.

The park encompasses the area once used by the Riga City Wall, which was removed in 1863 – and given to the German Riflemen Society, which used it as a training and hunting ground. Over the years it hosted numerous cultural events, but it wasn’t until 1930 when the modern park was set in motion.

In 1938 it was expanded over to the far side of the canal when a pedestrian bridge was built to connect the two banks. It was also during this time the park was named after a member of the Young Latvians Movement – Atis Kronvalds.

Nowadays, Kronvalda Park is filled with families and couples on a summer day, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and facilities, including a playground, a café, roller skating tracks, and water bicycles available for rent. An excellent area to people watch, take a book and relax in the sunshine, or go on a leisurely canal cruise. 

Latvians love flowers, and the tradition of giving flowers in Latvia is still strong. This probably explains the size and diversity of offerings of the recently renovated Sakta Flower Market, the largest flower market in the Baltics occupying a long stretch of flower shops by the side of the charming Vermanes Park

You might be traveling – but that doesn’t mean you can’t drop by, pick up some flowers, and brighten up someone’s day. If you have some Latvian friends and they invite you to their home, flowers will always be appreciated – or you could just surprise your travel partner-in-crime.

Even if you have no use for them (though does anyone really), you can forever wander around and treat your eyes to a colorful feast. If you don’t believe us about how essential flowers are to Latvian culture – the Sakta Flower Market is open 24/7.

Art Nouveau architecture is undoubtedly a calling card of Riga, making up roughly one-third of all the buildings in the center of Riga. In fact, Riga has over 700 art nouveau constructs built during a period of rapid economic growth between 1904 and 1914, mostly consists of multi-story apartment buildings.

This abundance is even great than other Art Noveau hotspots like Prague , Budapest , Helsinki , securing Latvia’s capital bragging rights as the city with the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world.

To learn more, the best place to go is the Musee Art Nouveau in Riga (Riga Jugendstila Centrs) built in a historic apartment where, Konstantīns Pēkšēns, one of Latvia’s most renown art nouveau architects once lived. The distinguished artist who was responsible for the conception of more than 250 buildings in Riga also composed this impressive building. The façade of the monumental building boasts ornamental reliefs with stylized motifs of plants and animals occurring in Latvia.

Inside is a modern digital exposition – as well as an intriguing collection of period furniture and artwork from Riga’s most creative era. Don’t miss a photo opportunity on the impressive grand staircase – one of the most magnificent masterpieces not only in Riga but also in Europe.

The only museum in the Baltic States dedicated to the Art Nouveau heritage – and one of the best things to do in Riga.  If a visit here is still not enough to satiate your inner architect, there is also this wonderful Art Nouveau Walking Tour in Riga.

30 . Treat Yourself To Sheer Opulence At The Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga 

Hotel prices in Riga are low, especially compared to Western European destinations like Vienna and Copenhagen , so why not splurge a little. And the best place for an extravagant splurge? The most fashionable hotel in Riga, the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga , is full of utter opulence and intriguing history.

Initially built in the 19th century, this regal hotel is situated in the heart of the Latvian capital just opposite the National Opera House and by the entrance to the town’s historic center. Discover the most exquisite collection of 141 luxury rooms and suites along with an all-day-dining and a rooftop restaurant, a bar, and a cigar lounge.

Indulge in Kempinski The Spa, featuring six treatment rooms, a swimming pool, and a health club with a fitness center, relax in your spacious room or head for drinks and the undeniable pearl of the hotel, the stylish rooftop restaurant, and bar, Stage 22.

If the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga is a bit too exorbitant, we can also recommend the Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel ; a modern hotel newly opened in Riga right on the waterfront and on the edge of the old town. And for budget travelers, the Wicked Weasel Hostel is the place to be. 

• Bungy Jumping
• Horse Riding
• Ice-Climbing
• Kite-Surfing
• Motor Sport
• Rock Climbing
• Scuba Diving
• Shark Diving
• Snowboarding
• Stand Up Paddle-Boarding
• Wakeboarding
• White Water Rafting

Travel , Video

The 25 best things to do in riga, latvia in 2024.

Page Contents

Riga must be one of my all-time favourite cities in Europe. There are so many things to do in Riga, and each time I visit I discover something new.

From the city’s historic monuments and endless museums to its bustling nightlife and fantastic eateries, Riga has something for everyone. Not to mention its quaint historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thanks to the city’s fantastic location, there are plenty of awesome day trip opportunities as well. If you have the time, Kuldīga, Jūrmala, and Sigulda are great options!

I always like to judge a city by two things, my first impression and whether I’d like to live there. Riga passes both, and I don’t think I’d get bored exploring this city.

In this guide, I’m going to take you through the best things to do in Riga, Latvia . I’ve also included some of my top tips when it comes to accommodation, bars, and restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Riga, Latvia

Is riga worth visiting.

Full of jaw-dropping architecture, fantastic museums, and charming eateries, Riga is certainly a city worth visiting, especially, as it offers a great nightlife scene too.

As Riga is one of the lesser-visited cities in Europe, you’ll also get away from the crowds that frequent the more popular European cities. Always a huge bonus.

How Many Days in Riga is Enough?

Although small, there’s a lot to see in Riga, so I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days here. If you’re looking to do day trips out of the city, then preferably longer (at least 4-5 days).

In all honesty, I could have spent a week here exploring all that Riga has to offer.

Is Riga Cheap or Expensive?

Compared to other European cities, Riga is very affordable. Here, you can get fantastic deals on accommodation, cheap booze, and budget-friendly (yet delicious) food.

Of course, your trip can be as inexpensive or costly as you’d like, as there are plenty of things to do in Latvia’s capital city. In my opinion, you could get by on €50-60 per day.

How to Get Around Riga?

You can easily get around Riga walking, as the city is very much walkable. However, if you plan to visit many things to do in Riga, then I recommend joining the Hop On Hop Off Bus .

When signing up for this bus trip, you will not only have a better understanding of the city with the audio guide but also have transportation for the whole day, making your trip much more enjoyable.

Plus, it’s very cheap! Check it out here below:

When is the Best Time to Visit Riga?

Between late spring and summer is considered the best time to visit Riga. During this time, temperatures are pleasant, with plenty of sunshine. Just be prepared for some rainfall.

Although the winter months can encounter temperatures in the minus, Riga offers a fantastic Christmas market, making this another great time to visit.

Best Tours in Riga, Latvia

The best things to do in riga, visit riga old town.

The historic centre of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as Vecrīga, this area dates back to the 1200s, so has plenty of history and landmarks.

Although you can get superb views of the Old Town from across the river, there are plenty of places to explore within as well.

The Three Brothers

In my opinion, visiting the Three Brothers is one of the best things to do in Riga. It’s a complex made up of three different houses and the architecture is striking.

These houses were built between the 15th and 17th centuries, all at different times. Today, the Latvian Museum of Architecture is found here.

St. Peter’s Church

One of my favourite things to do in Riga was admire the epic city views from the top of St. Peter’s Church. You can use the elevator to reach the sightseeing platforms.

The original church dates back to 1209, although only a few walls and pillars remain. The basilica you see today is from the 15th century.

Dome Square

I loved exploring Dome Square, which is the biggest square in Riga’s Old Town. It’s considered the heart of the city and is surrounded by several key monuments. This includes Riga Cathedral and Riga Bourse House.

Sometimes the Christmas markets are even held here, along with other events throughout the year.

Black Magic

I made sure to visit Black Magic during my time in the Old Town. It had been recommended to me and I can safely say that it didn’t disappoint.

Here, you can try Riga Black Balsam, a traditional Latvian liqueur. There are also plenty of confectionaries (including chocolates) filled with this tasty liquor, which you can try for yourself.

Livu Square

Another great spot to visit in the Old Town is Livu Square. This actually used to be where the Riga River was located, but today it’s a great place to take in Riga’s beauty.

While here, see if you can spot the black cat which is located on top of the Cat House (don’t worry it’s not real). See if you can find out the interesting story about how it used to face the other way (or watch my video to find out!).

Last but not least, to make the most of your time in Riga, I highly recommend joining a walking tour in the old town, definitely the best experience here!

Explore the Museums in Riga

National history museum of latvia.

Founded in 1896, the National History Museum of Latvia will take you through the history of the country. It’s home to over a million items, so I’d highly recommend this place!

There are several permanent exhibitions to explore, but the ‘Ancient History of Latvia’ is certainly a highlight. It’s a great place to wander around and take everything in.

Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

I spent a couple of days exploring this amazing city, and the Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation is a must-visit. It’s the oldest museum in the Baltics and one of the oldest in Europe.

Home to over 500,000 items and made up of three branches, you won’t want to rush your time here.

Latvian War Museum

The Latvian War Museum is another highlight of Riga. It’s one of the largest museums in Latvia and is known for its thought-provoking exhibitions. Not to mention, it’s found in the quirky Powder Tower.

There are over 25,000 items in total at this museum, and these consist of photographs, documents, weapons, and uniforms among others.

This is the Best Tour in Riga

Want to make the most of your time? Check out the Walking Tour of Riga Old Town !

It includes the walking tour, a local guide, and it’s cheap!

Riga Motor Museum

The Riga Motor Museum is a popular attraction for sure and I can see why. Since 1989, this place has attracted endless travellers thanks to its huge collection of vintage vehicles.

If you’re a car enthusiast then you won’t find another place like this in the Baltics. Allow at least an hour for your visit.

Latvian National Museum of Art

If you’re an artsy person then I’d recommend heading to the Latvian National Museum of Art . Here, you’ll find a fantastic permanent exhibition that focuses on the country’s art between the 19th and 20th centuries.

The museum has been recently modernised, and you’ll get a clear understanding of the different styles on display.

Art Museum Riga Bourse

Finally, there’s the Art Museum Riga Bourse , another great recommendation that was given to me. It’s home to the largest collection of foreign art in the Baltics, so there’s a lot to see.

There are six floors at this museum, and it’s best to check which temporary exhibitions are on during your visit.

The Riga Art Nouveau Centre

The Riga Art Nouveau Centre will take you through the history of Art Nouveau. It’s housed in a 20th-century apartment, which used to be home to the famous architect, Konstantīns Pēkšēns.

There are plenty of rooms to visit including the kitchen, drawing room, dining room, and cabinet, where you’ll get to see endless authentic pieces.

Join a Sightseeing Tour By Bike

While roaming around Riga walking is very nice, for all the adventurers out there like myself, taking the bike and exploring Riga in a unique way is the real deal.

That’s right, on this tour, you’ll get to see the city from a different perspective and with an experienced guide that know everything about Riga’s history, and I’m sure you’ll love the stories!

You’ll get to see the National Library, Riga Cathedral, Victory Park, and so many more spots. That being said, it easily sells out during the peak season, so I recommend booking immediately to secure your spot.

Bastion Hill

I find exploring on foot is the best way to appreciate a city, and Riga is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. So go for a wander around Bastion Hill. You can walk along its narrow paths, appreciate the stone garden, and admire the city views.

During the summer, you can take a riverboat along the canal, or make your way to the Freedom Monument. It’s said Bastion Hill separates the Old Town from the new Riga.

The Freedom Monument

Since 1935, the Freedom Monument has symbolised the independence of Latvia, so has huge significance in the city’s history.

At over 42 metres (137 feet) high, this monument certainly stands out. Especially, as it’s made up of over 50 different sculptures.

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

This is Riga’s largest orthodox church so it’s quite the sight. It was opened back in 1884, so has withstood two world wars and the Soviet era – quite the feat!

The architecture is neo-Byzantine style and the church is home to a collection of valuable items, such as the ‘Three Iconostasis’ painting.

Ķīpsala is a charming island located in Riga. I spent a couple of hours here just wandering around, but there’s also a beach where you can relax, and then cool off in the River Daugava.

From Ķīpsala, you’ll want to take in the epic city views, as well as the charming wooden buildings.

National Library of Latvia

Seeing the immense number of books at the National Library of Latvia is enough to convince anyone to visit, but the architecture is also really impressive.

While here, take a look at the Latvian] Dainu skapis. It’s a file cabinet which holds thousands of Latvian folk verses. Cultural and social events are also held here.

This is the Best Hotel in Riga

Check out Wellton Centrum Hotel for the perfect stay!

They provide world-class service, stunning rooms, and incredible amenities.

Riga Central Market

If you’re unsure of where to visit, don’t miss out on Riga Central Market . I could have spent hours here, trying all the unique foods, as there are endless options to choose from.

Riga Central Market is one of the largest (and most-visited) marketplaces in Europe so has a lot to offer. Just make sure you bring cash.

If wandering around the market on your own isn’t your thing, then a great way to explore is to sign up for the Food Tasting Tour , which includes a stop at the Central Market. And let me tell you, you’re definitely in for a treat!

Street art in Riga

Riga is home to plenty of fantastic murals, although my favourite has to be ‘Saule. Pērkons. Daugava’. It’s the largest mural in the Baltics and was created by two famous graffiti artists; Kiwie and Rudens Stencil.

Other great murals include ‘The Tale of Riga’, ‘20 Ls’, ‘The Red One’, and ‘Together We Are Strong’.

Latvian National Opera

The Latvian National Opera has been around since 1923 and it’s a great place to appreciate the city’s culture and arts scene.

If you’re visiting between September to May, an average of six performances are staged at this venue. I’d suggest checking to see if any are on during your visit – you won’t regret it.

Kayaking at Sunset

During my time in Riga, I spent an evening kayaking down the river, where I got to admire the most epic sunset.

This has to be the most relaxing way to appreciate Latvia’s capital, and you’ve got two options; you can either head out on a tour or hire a kayak. I definitely preferred the latter.

Ķemeri National Park

Lastly, I highly recommend taking a trip out to Ķemeri National Park . I did this during my visit, and getting to explore the boggy landscapes of this area is one of the best activities on offer from the capital.

This beautiful national park is located under an hour’s drive from Riga.

Join a Tour to Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park

Latvia isn’t only about Riga – There’s so much more to see and do in the country, and there’s no better way to visit than joining a tour to Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park!

This 5-hour tour will take your to the best places outside Riga, and you’ll see Sigulda Manor and Castle, Turaida Castle, and many more sights that I assure you, you’ll love.

You’ll stop in different towns and do a walking tour in each of them with your guide, who will explain the ins and outs of each and hidden stories that only locals know.

If you have more time available in Riga, then you just can’t skip this trip!

Best Places to Eat in Riga

Labietis brewery.

After spending some time at Labiestis Brewery , I can safely say this place is a must-visit. There’s a great selection of craft beers to choose from and the décor is really funky.

You’ll want to go for the local beers and there are plenty of food options too if you’re feeling peckish. In my video I talk more about how they forage for ingredients for their new batches of beer each year, I love this.

Tallinas Kvartāls

Next up is Tallinas Kvartāls , a superb area that I had the pleasure of visiting. You’ll find loads of pubs and bars in this part of Riga, so the options are endless.

Tallinas Kvartāls is a community project, where artistic people were allowed usage of disused listed buildings. It brought new life to the area and you really feel the local vibe when you walk around. There is more information in the video above, but this is a must visit in Riga.

Tallinas kvartāla Ezītis miglā 

Lastly, I’d suggest checking out Tallinas kvartāla Ezītis Miglā . As well as its quirky décor, this place is known for its delicious food and awesome cocktails.

There’s often music playing at night too, and this place is a real hidden gem so you won’t experience the crowds compared to other venues in the city.

Nightlife in Riga

Skyline bar.

Admiring the panoramic views from Skyline Bar had to be one of my top experiences in Riga. You can catch the elevator up, and then just take in the city’s magic (especially when it’s all lit up at night).

While here, you’ll want to treat yourself to a signature cocktail (there’s even an official one for Riga).

If you love live music, then my next suggestion would have to be St. Black . The drinks here are great value for money and there are plenty of them to choose from, including some fantastic cocktails.

There are also some great food options if you want to eat here first, and then grab some drinks afterwards.

The Rock Cafe

Finally, there’s the Rock Cafe . This nightclub is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to paint the town red. As well as live music there’s karaoke on offer, meaning this place has something for everyone.

Like many of the other bars and pubs in Riga, you can grab food here too if you’re feeling peckish.

Where to Stay in Riga

Here are a few hotels in Riga to make the most of your time in town:

Luxury: Wellton Centrum Hotel & SPA

This is another of the places where I stayed in Riga. It’s a gorgeous hotel with cosy rooms, an on-site restaurant, and spa facilities, which include two saunas and a hot tub.

Just be aware that your stay doesn’t include access to the spa unless you book a superior room. This isn’t stated clearly enough in my opinion.

Mid-Range: Rixwell Konventa Seta Design Hotel

I stayed in two hotels while in Riga, and this was one of them. It’s set right in the city’s Old Town so is in a great location and you’ll be staying in a historic townhouse.

The rooms have been fully renovated this year, so offer a very comfortable stay. A buffet breakfast is also available at this hotel.

Budget: Orange Cat Rooms

Right in the city centre of Riga, Orange Cat Rooms is a nice place to stay near the Latvian National Opera and countless bars and restaurants.

Also, while it has a shared bathroom, it’s clean and comfortable, and that’s exactly what you need when traveling on a budget!

Things to do in Riga – My Final Thoughts

That brings an end to my Latvia trip and all the fantastic things you can do here. It’s an underrated city for sure, full of unique attractions, cultural museums, and awesome eateries.

I’ll be back time and time again, that’s for sure. If you liked this article, check out my Kuldīga travel guide .

This post was in partnership with the Development and Investment agency of Latvia, and may contain affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). As always all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

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52 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

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You may not necessarily picture Latvia when you think of European vacations, but trust us… you should be!

While the entire country has its charms, its capital city is a must-see for every type of traveler: history nerds, foodies, architecture buffs, you name it!

It’s also the largest town in the nation, offering plenty of cosmopolitan delights alongside the mellower vibes of a community that’s been built over hundreds of years.

So come along with us on an adventure, as we explore some of the wonderful things to do in Riga !

1 – Explore the House of the Black Heads

While the name may make you think of beauty regimens gone wrong, House of the Black Heads is actually a marvel of culture and design, with centuries of stories contained within its many spires and hallways.

From the 1300s onward, the Brotherhood of the Black Heads played a substantial role in the infrastructure of the town, cultivating a lively social calendar for the citizens of the capital to enjoy.

As you tour the magnificent building, you’ll also get a glimpse into the many layers of its illustrious past, from antique silverware to glistening chandeliers and rooms that look just as they did at the height of the medieval era.

And of course, the exterior is equally breathtaking, so take some time to walk around and admire its details!

• House of the Black Heads Tickets

2 – Stroll around Town Hall Square

As the name suggests, Town Hall Square is home to some of the most important cultural and civic buildings in town; but it’s also another great place to absorb the city’s complex past.

As you walk the well-trod paths, you can admire the remarkable process of rebirth that took place here; while the surrounding structures look like their historical predecessors, they were actually all rebuilt after the devastation of World War II.

While there’s plenty to see on your own, it’s well worth taking some of the excellent walking tours to get even more context for the beautiful area and its many fascinating structures.

• walking tours in Riga

3 – Soak up the scenery of Old Town

And while you’re in the neighborhood…

Around these parts, “Old Town” isn’t just a saying; this particular community has been around for roughly 800 years!

As you wander through the neighborhood, you can still see influences stretching all the way back to the days of Bishop Albert of Livonia, who established the town in 1201.

But despite the name, this is also a great area to find some remnants of the more recent past!

Explore the Art Nouveau beauty of Albert Street, whose stunning designs helped define the early 1900s.

Then pop over to Vecrīga, one of the oldest and most historic neighborhoods in town, and home to such iconic spots as St. Peter’s Church.

Dome Square is ideal for people-watching, as one of the biggest public areas in town, with a steady flow of locals combined with visitors enjoying such magnificent sights as the Riga Cathedral (see #15).

Meanwhile, shoppers and adventurous types will love Bergs Bazaar, with its quirky little shops and excellent cafes and bars.

And if you’re feeling pressed for time, simply glance up at the statuesque Laima Clock – an art piece and timekeeper that has stood watch over the city for nearly 100 years – to get back on track.

There are also plenty of great tours that will give you a better feel for the neighborhood in all its multifaceted glory!

• Old Town tours

4 – Pay your respects at the Freedom Monument

Like many countries in the region, Latvia has had its share of bumps in the road on the way to independence; and a trip to the Freedom Monument is not only one of the most fascinating things to do in Riga, but also a thought-provoking one.

This stunning copper and granite obelisk, towering 140 feet above the city, pays tribute to the many brave souls that fought and died in the independence movement of the early 1900s.

It’s actually several magnificent art pieces in one, consisting of 56 different sculptures grouped into 13 sections across four tiers, all of which commemorate different aspects of the conflict and the difficult, rewarding nation-building process that followed.

It’s a spectacular tribute to a powerful social movement!

5 – Go behind the buildings with a trip to the Three Brothers and Latvian Museum of Architecture

Like some sort of fairytale come to life, the Three Brothers are tucked comfortably side by side on one of the main streets, representing the earliest existing examples of homes in the city.

Erected at various points throughout the 15th and 17th centuries, the trio of homes feature a variety of color palettes and aesthetics, all demonstrating different attributes of the city’s building strategies – and even more impressively, they all still serve as residences today!

Better yet, there’s a (somewhat) hidden treasure in Building No.19… the Latvian Museum of Architecture!

Originally opened in 1994, the space serves as a time capsule into the city’s long and illustrious design history, with blueprints, maps, and intriguing stories of the building process; and of course, the space that houses it is all part of the narrative!

6 –  See the sights on your own time with a hop on hop off bus tour

If you’re looking for an action-packed vacation that still gives you plenty of autonomy over your schedule, check out some of the local bus tours!

Hop On, Hop Off options have become increasingly popular around the world due to their combination of convenience and versatility; not only will they take you to all of the top tourist spots in town, but they’ll also offer you the option to disembark whenever you want to explore the various stops in greater depth.

After seeing the basics, you can linger a little longer at the various stops on your list, absorbing even more history and culture before you head to your next destination.

If you want to soak up the scenery and culture at your own speed, these vehicles have got you covered!

• bus tours in Riga

7 – Let yourself be dazzled by the Art Nouveau Architecture

Among the many movements that defined the capital over the centuries, Art Nouveau was among the most stylish – and fascinating!

Characterized by bold colors and unique decor, this style took off all over the Continent… and Latvia has some particularly impressive specimens!

If you’re interested in the style and its impact, a trip to the Art Nouveau Museum is a must!

Explore the fascinating interactive exhibits, and gain some much-needed context for the amazing architectural movement all around you, as well as some amazing artifacts and displays from the earliest iterations of the movement’s presence in Latvia.

You can gain even more context with the help of some guided tours .

Then take the learning back to the streets with some fascinating Art Nouveau Architecture tours, where you can walk past the many examples of the form that are still intact today.

• Art Nouveau Architecture tours

8 – Get out on the water with a boat tour

One of the city’s most defining features is its picturesque canal, which serves as both a visual gem and a means of transportation.

Set sail on a boat tour, and you’ll be able to discover both of these facets… and much more!

Take in iconic attractions like the Latvian National Theatre and the Freedom Monument (see #4), while also enjoying the gentle currents of the river and the beauty of a traditional vessel.

Or get a little more luxurious with a half-day yacht tour, which gets you even more into the historical mood with a full medieval feast to enjoy as you cruise along.

• boat tours in Riga

9 – Enjoy the art – and the views – at St. Peter’s Church

Since it first opened in the 1400s, this gorgeous building has seen its share of trials and tribulations; but despite fires, deterioration, and even a lightning strike, it still remains a stalwart part of the skyline.

Along with serving the local Lutheran community for centuries, it’s something of an artistic haven as well, with ancient statues, unique decorations, and regularly rotating concerts and exhibitions.

And on top of all of that, it’s the tallest church in town, with views to match!

Head up the 426.5-foot tall tower and enjoy incredible panoramic scenes below you, with the city laid out as perfectly as a picture book.

10 – Browse with gusto at Central Market

If you find yourself feeling a little hungry whilst out sightseeing, you can’t do much better than the biggest open-air shopping area in all of Europe!

Bustling with sights, smells, and tastes for sampling, Riga Central Market is the pride of the capital, and an irresistible place for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

Produce, baked goods, and meats are expertly laid out along the streets, blending perfectly with some fantastic food stalls filled with traditional treats.

As you explore the mosaic of different eateries, you’ll get a scrumptious cross-section of the country’s food, all created by locals!

While this area is especially good for a leisurely stroll, it’s also a popular stop on various segway tours !

• Riga Central Market tours

11 – Find your next favorite ride at the Riga Motor Museum

Whether you’re a dedicated gearhead or just a casual car fan, you’ll find plenty to love at this marvelous monument to motors!

This spacious institution , which is the biggest museum of its kind in the Baltics, showcases the evolution of automobiles from their earliest days, as well as the many fascinating forms that they’ve taken in the present day.

Check out cars dating all the way back to the 1800s, and walk through a vivid, real-life timeline of their changing shapes, styles, and abilities, with perfectly preserved specimens serving as visual examples.

While the primary focus is on the impressive collection of antique autos, there’s also lots to learn about the biggest moments and people in the history of car production, as well as a fascinating assortment of Soviet-built machines.

It’s one experience that’ll certainly get you “revved up” to learn!

12 – Embark on a bike tour

If you’re looking for a stellar combination of fresh air, fun facts, and great views, you simply can’t go wrong with a bike tour!

No matter what your level of pedaling prowess is, you’ll have a great time seeing the landscapes around town, as well as new perspectives on Old Town and other historic areas.

You can even enjoy a two-wheeled bar crawl of sorts with a beer and cider tour, which combines bar and bike into one irresistible excursion!

Hop aboard your rolling pub and start pedaling, enjoying some premium beverages as you take in the sights.

• bike tours in Riga

13 – Hunt for clues (and fun) with interactive scavenger games

If you ever dreamed of being a detective when you were younger, now’s your chance -and you can combine it with some great learning opportunities!

Scavenger games are often marketed towards kids, but they’re a great opportunity for travlers of all ages to dive deeper into the stories and secrets of the town.

Best of all, it’s entirely self-guided!

Simply download the app and follow the clues laid out before you, unearthing facts and setting different challenges for yourself to make a unique game.

You can do a general hunt to learn a bit of everything, or focus on specific areas and topics, such as the Art Nouveau movement or the tales of the mysterious Livonian order.

Test your brain in every direction with these lively excursions!

• scavenger games in Riga

14 – Venture out on a Sigulda (and Turaida) day trip

Just an hour from the capital, Sigulda is bursting with beauty and charm, with a somewhat quieter atmosphere than its big-city neighbor.

Often called “The Switzerland of Latvia,”,  this gorgeous town is perhaps best known for its many castles and well-preserved buildings, all framed by idyllic stretches of countryside.

Krimulda Castle is probably the most famous piece of real estate; dating back to the 1300s, it features several explorable buildings scattered around its regal ruins… and you can even arrange a wine tasting there!

On the natural side of things, you can explore the spacious chambers of Gutman’s Cave, the highest and widest cavern in the whole Baltic region, famed for its stunning sandstone formations that capture eons of gradual geologic motion.

Then it’s off to your next stop: Turaida , home to the magnificent Turaida Castle and an incredible open-air museum filled with artistic treasures and archaeological artifacts.

And don’t miss out on Cesis , another haven of lovely little neighborhoods and medieval architecture – including an 800 year old palace!

• Sigulda day trip from Riga

15 – Enjoy the serenity of Riga Cathedral

When the town first came into being, the Riga Cathedral was the primary place of worship; today, it still serves as a remarkable relic of the past – not just its religious aspects, but its artistic ones as well.

With heaps of treasures around every corner, it’s as much a museum as it is a church – and it does, of course, still serve an active congregation.

But it also serves another great function… music hall!

With tons of concerts staged throughout the space, you can enjoy a gentle dose of melodies and harmonies as you take in the beauty of this wondrous space.

16 – Absorb some culture at the Latvia National Museum of Art

Sleek, contemporary architecture houses an eon’s worth of masterpieces, offering a great overview of the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Leave yourself plenty of time to wander through the various galleries, taking in the evolution of form and style over the years; or just linger at individual pieces and take in their remarkable details.

With pieces from the 18th through the 20th centuries and exhibits that explore everything from Russian Modernism to the fascinating evolution of photography as a medium, it’s one of the most culturally significant things to do in Riga.

17 – Discover the beauty of Kemeri National Park

Time for some more adventures in the great outdoors!

Kemeri National Park is a spectacular paradise for beachcombers, walkers, and fans of unspoiled nature.

It’s also a perfect cross-section of the diversity of Baltic ecosystems; from the pristine shores of the Gulf of Riga to the vibrant wetlands of the Great Kemeri Bog, every section of the park could be a journey in and of itself.

Avian fans will especially love Kanieris Lake, which hosts massive flocks of migratory birds every spring and fall.

Spend a day exploring these realms, and get in touch with the area’s natural side!

• Kemeri National Park tours from Riga

18 – Fill up like a local on a food tour

If the marketplace got you all hyped up for some tasting sessions, check out these awesome food tours!

Take a guided excursion through the streets of town, stopping to munch on various delicacies, such as karbonāde (a type of savory pork chop) and rupjmaize, a black rye bread.

And of course, you can enjoy even more cheeses, meats, fruits, and veggies, making for an utterly delicious excursion.

Come with an open mind and an empty stomach, because the local cuisine is well worth sampling at length!

• food tours in Riga

19 – Take a peek at the fascinating Cat House

If you’re not looking, you could almost miss the little statues that give the Cat House its name; but as you pass this lovely, castle-like structure, look up to the turrets, and you’ll see some fabricated felines in all their glory!

Built in 1909, this Art Nouveau treasure has an entertaining bit of spite built into its design; the original owner was so angry about not being admitted into the prestigious Great Guild that he had the wrought-iron kitties placed atop the turrets, hissing and retaliating for eternity.

After enjoying the aesthetics outside, head inside for a bite at the restaurant, and enjoy a bit of quality time with one of the city’s most distinctive buildings.

20 – Soak up knowledge (and sights) at the Latvian Academy of Sciences

With a long-time commitment to research and education, the Latvian Academy of Sciences is the kind of place that brims over with promise.

Since it opened in 1946, this palatial space has served as a forum for interdisciplinary excellence, hosting all kinds of amazing research projects, academic collaborations, and educational endeavors.

While these works aren’t always available for the public to observe, you can still have some truly revelatory moments while you’re there, courtesy of the viewing deck on the 17th floor.

After filling your head with knowledge, fill your eyes with spectacular scenery, as the Central Market, National Library, and the river beyond all sit serenely below you.

21 – Play with perception at Cosmos Illusion Museum

While you’re probably expecting to dive into different cultures during your visit, you may not have been planning to delve into the mysteries of space and time; but at the Cosmos Illusion Museum , anything is possible!

With more than 30 different puzzles and exhibits to explore, this physics-defying spot will challenge and delight you at every turn.

Change your size and walk on the ceiling, roam through the galaxy and stick your hand through inter-dimensional wormholes… and of course, save some time to take a few quirky pictures!

It’s wacky, weird, and wonderful – an adventure for all ages!

• Cosmos Illusion Museum tickets

22 – Hang out with the animal residents of the Riga Zoo

While the local ecosystems boast plenty of unique specimens, there’s nothing like a trip to the zoo to really get you in touch with some cool creatures!

From the wild savannas to the tropical rainforest, you’ll get to stroll through a nice cross-section of the globe – no additional plane tickets required!

Heavy hitters like lions, brown bears, and ring-tailed lemurs rub elbows with oft-underrepresented creatures like emperor newts, tilapias, and naked mole rats.

Whether you want to learn more about conservation efforts around the world, find a new favorite animal, or a little bit of both, this wild world has got you covered!

23 – Putter around on a segway tour

Segway tours are fantastic for the ambitious sightseer that likes a bit of novelty; faster than walking tours and more physically accessible than biking tours, they offer all of the best tourist opportunities in a fun, efficient format.

Hop onto your two-wheeled scooter, learn the basics of shifting and navigating the machine, then set off on your adventure.

Zoom around the story-saturated streets of Old Riga, or bounce along some of the smaller roads, catching a glimpse of natural scenery and fascinating cultural sites – and maybe even a few restaurants that you can circle back to later!

At the end, you’ll have a head full of facts and eyes full of beauty – and still be left with plenty of time to explore on your own time!

• segway tours in Riga

24 – Get an honest look at the past at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

No trip to this country would be complete without taking in the complicated history of various political regime’s rule over the land, and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia serves as a powerful showcase of this troubled past.

Focusing on 50 successive years of repression – first by the Nazis, then by the Soviet Union -, its fascinating exhibits combine personal narratives and broader analysis to offer a full picture of life in the country through the mid-20th century.

The KGB Building (also known as the Corner House) is the most striking part of the whole complex; from the 1940s to 1991, this ornate building served a grim purpose as the headquarters for the Soviet Union’s secret police force.

Take the guided tour through the many different rooms, cellars, and hallways of the building, and learn all about the chilling tales of trials, imprisonments, and prosecution against those that protested the regime.

It’s a powerful, thought-provoking experience, and one that puts the nation as a whole in greater perspective.

25 – Enjoy the amazing shows at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated version of the “old song and dance,” then a trip to the Latvian National Opera and Ballet may be in order!

For over a century, this acclaimed institution has served up a mixture of classic and contemporary programs, seeking to make these often misunderstood mediums accessible to all.

In between stunning performances, you can explore the companies – and the marvelous building that houses them – with a guided tour.

Soak up the rich legacy of the facility and the artists that call it home, then take in a show and watch these tremendous talents at work!

26 – Spend a day visiting the city’s best parks

When it’s time for some relaxation in the outdoors, you’ll have an endless array of green spaces to choose from!

Bastejkalna Park feels like a world away from the city, with its meandering brooks and hundreds of plant species framing a former military stronghold; and Kronvalda Park offers a similarly bucolic scene, with elegant sculptures and a sheltering bough of towering trees.

Victory Park provides lovely lawns to sit on FIX and great people-watching opportunities, while Arcadia Park is perfect for a riverside stroll or a nice view of the surrounding town.

Stop by Viesturdārzs, the oldest park in town, for a taste of history and a visit to an elm tree planted by Tsar Peter I; or head over to the bustling Esplanade, which is packed with statues and lovely trails that lead right past some of the city’s finest attractions.

Take in the scents and sights of Vērmane Garden, the oldest botanical bastion in the capital; or venture over to Võidu Park, which offers everything from historical monuments to playgrounds.

27 – Get stylish at Fashion Museum Riga

For compelling exhibits that will engage you from head to toe – literally -,  spend some time wandering the halls of Fashion Museum Riga !

Clotheshorses and casual dressers alike will love exploring the evolution of outfits here, including some of the greatest trends from both the United States and Europe.

Dive into the social and aesthetic history of different eras, then pop into some of the hands-on areas to model some of these outfits yourself!

You’ll be amazed at just how much a simple item of clothing can convey!

• Fashion Museum Riga tickets

28 – Linger at Nativity of Christ Cathedral

With its ornate towers and impressive domes, Riga’s Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral is hard to miss – and its story is just as fascinating as its architecture!

Originally built in 1876, the cathedral served the city’s Orthodox congregation for nearly a century until the 1960s, when the Soviets shut it down and repurposed it as an eatery and planetarium.

When the Latvians reclaimed control of the city in the 1990s, they restored the church to its original purpose; today, it’s not only the largest Orthodox institution in the city, but also a bona fide attraction for curious visitors.

Soak up the beauty and amazing stories of this magnificent building, and ponder the decades of life that it has borne witness to.

29 – Choose your adventure at an escape room

If all of those scavenger hunts got you and your travel buddies in a puzzle-solving mood, get yourself acquainted with some escape rooms!

Combining teamwork and problem-solving with interactive storytelling, these spots are perfect for testing your wits and having some fun.

Break into a bank vault in search of glorious diamonds; sneak into a millionaire’s home to make off with his treasure; or solve mysteries in the role of one of the world’s greatest detectives… Sherlock Holmes!

You’ll be challenged and delighted at every turn, but just keep in mind: you only have an hour to succeed!

• escape rooms in Riga

30 – Stroll back in time at the Ethnographic Open Air Museum

There’s nothing quite like seeing different cultures up close, and the Ethnographic Open Air Museum takes this approach to the next level!

Half an hour from the city, this perfectly recreated village is packed with traditional buildings sourced from all over the country, representing every aspect of community life.

From farmsteads to little shops to typical country homes, you’ll feel as though you’re walking through a real rural Latvian town – albeit one with a lot more tourists!

If you happen to be visiting during the summer, you’ll get an even livelier experience, as blacksmiths, potters, and other craftspeople fill the village with art and handiwork… and some spirited fun, of course!

31 – Find bliss amongst the blooms at the University of Latvia Botanical Garden

While the local parks and greenways have plenty of great foliage to admire, it’s well worth  checking out the university’s spectacular gardens !

With a remarkable assortment of plants from around the world, it’s always a welcoming spot, whether you’re taking refuge from cold weather or just looking for a bit of tropical scenery in the heart of Europe.

Take in the vivid pinks, whites, and purples of the renowned azalea collection; gape at some of the planet’s rarest botanical specimens in the greenhouses; or stroll down the forested paths of the arboretum, which is stunningly beautiful no matter the season.

Soak up the scents of each flower, and take your time as you regard the beauty all around you!

32 – Bask on the shore at Jurmala beach (Baltic Sea)

For scores of travelers (not to mention plenty of locals), the Baltic Sea is a paradise of cool waters and beautiful beaches.

And if you’re hanging around Riga for a while, a day trip to Jurmala is the perfect way to explore it!

With 33 kilometers (20 miles) of pristine white sand to stroll along, this shoreline is one of the most popular resort areas in the region – and it’ll certainly make your list after you spend some time frolicking in the waves!

But be sure to pull yourself away from this postcard-perfect scene, because the area has plenty more to offer!

From charming wooden houses and lovely little shops to the hushed beauty of the nearby forest, you’ll find an endless array of beauty over the course of a day… and you’ll want to come back for more!

• Jurmala day trips from Riga

33 – Check out the nautical world at the Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

Two museums for the price of one? It’s your lucky day!

There are few more fascinating things to do in Riga than exploring the collections at this marvelous space, which include everything from prehistoric hunting implements to fine silverworks, artifacts from empires gone by, and models of Latvian ships that once plied the seas.

Stroll through multiple millennia’s worth of stories, told in art and objects, and watch the area evolve from early settlements to colonized region to independent nation.

The navigational sections are particularly fascinating; covering 1,000 years of naval history, the massive array of artifacts covers every part of the industry, from detailed oceanic charts to pieces of the actual boats that helped maintain this fine industry.

34 – Take in some high-caliber displays at Arena Riga

Nail-biting sporting events, lively concerts, and themed shows galore; you never know what’s in store at Arena Riga !

With over 10,000 seats, it’s the kind of place where you can really get caught up in the action – and of course, it draws some of the best and biggest entertainment options in the region!

Check out a floorball match – a mix between hockey and lacrosse -, or sing along to some of the world’s most acclaimed singers and bands.

You may even catch A Cirque Du Soleil performance or two!

For an epic night out, the venue can’t be beat!

35 – Let a beer tasting guide your way around town

Every hour is happy hour when you’re embarking on a beer tasting!

There are excellent hops and suds available all over town, and a tour is the best way to get a feel for the different flavors and styles – plus, you’ll get to participate in the lively brewery scene!

If you’re looking for another traditional drink that’s more on the liquor side, be sure to sip some Riga Black Balsam; this traditional herbal bitter offers unique flavors on its own or paired with mixers, and has been a cherished local beverage since the 1700s!

Although it’s not a beer but a drink to, mention Riga Black Balsam

• beer tasting in Riga

36 – Get inspired at every turn in the Spikeri creative district

On the artsy side of things, spend a day – or several! – soaking up the joys of the Spikeri creative district , which celebrates artists and oddballs of all stripes.

This part of town has always had something of an eclectic, unusual streak; it started out as a place for unloading ship cargo, and the resulting warehouses and industrial areas were mostly populated by escaped slaves, merchants, and other outcasts.

Over the years, it’s become a haven for the arts, with plenty of unique artisans and wonderful venues keeping the neighborhood alive in a million mediums.

Head over to the Spikeri Concert Hall, a vibrant venue that features everything from classical music to unique experimental audio.

Then grab some shopping bags and head to the flea market – trust us, you’ll be coming back with souvenirs!

This sprawling treasure trove has something for everyone; and fittingly for such a creative space, it boasts plenty of distinctive items to browse through!

37 – Feel the adrenaline from the stands at Biķernieku Trase

When the motors start revving and the wheels start turning, get psyched… race season is here!

Biķernieku Trase is one of the area’s premier sport tracks, with a distinguished pedigree stretching all the way back to the 1950s.

Opened in a stretch of nearby forest in 1966, the track hosts a whole range of events, including lots of motocross races.

And of course, there are plenty of cars showing off their skills too, with traditional cars and drag racers alike competing on the grounds.

If you want to test out the excitement for yourself, swing by the motorsport simulator, where cutting-edge technology will make you feel like you’re the one competing for the cup!

38 – Take a walk on the glamorous side at Rundale Palace

In the 1700s, Rundale Palace was the pinnacle of upper-class architecture; and its glamor is still viewable in full force when you visit!

This Rococo and Baroque hybrid, which was commissioned for the Duke of Courland, has long been a symbol of luxury, with gardens modeled after the ones in Versailles, and a whopping 138 individual rooms… better hope you don’t misplace anything!

Along with these aesthetic delights, there’s an excellent museum in the building that offers great insights into the highbrow lives of the castle’s former residents.

You can get even more of the royal treatment with a side trip to nearby Bauska Castle , famed for its combination of fortified military areas and residential quarters.

• Rundala Palace tours from Riga

39 – See the visceral effects of conflict at The Powder Tower

Jutting up in the middle of town, this gorgeous structure has a legacy as thick and tangled as the ivy winding through its walls.

Created in 1650, it was once part of the capital’s mighty defensive forces; if you peek at the walls, you can still see the remains of cannonballs lodged between the bricks!

Today, it fills that role in a different way, as the host of the Latvia War Museum , which is one of the most acclaimed historical institutions in the country.

If you want to learn more about the tragic, fascinating role of conflict in the region – especially the many battles and wars that locals participated in throughout the 20th century -, these artifact-packed exhibitions will sate your curiosity!

40 – Peruse the pages at the National Library of Latvia

You may not always think of libraries as tourist destinations… but this magnificent tribute to the mind will have you changing your tune!

Not only is the building itself strikingly beautiful with its soaring pyramid shape, but its vast holdings are equally impressive; there are over 4 million items in the collection!

Unsurprisingly, Latvia itself is the main focus here; this is probably the best spot in the world to study literary works and journalistic pieces by and about the country.

But the space also celebrates the beauty of global literature, so you can find any number of topics between the stacks.

Grab a book (or three) and stay a while!

41 – Discover the city’s political side at Riga Castle

The castles around these parts tend to be relics of the past, but there’s at least one that is very much part of the city’s fabric!

For over 100 years, Riga Castle has been the homeplace of the Latvian president , making it a pivotal part of the country’s political scene.

But it’s actually been hanging around town for roughly 700 years!

It started as a home for the Livonian Order, the polarizing group that played such a strong role in shaping the country in its earliest days; and over the years, it saw wars, raids, and even outright destruction and rebuilding.

Stop by to peek into the city’s tumultuous past, and maybe catch a glimpse of some world leaders having a meeting!

42 – Walk through remnants of the olden days at The Swedish Gate

Another one of the city’s great early protective measures, the Swedish Gate is the last existing part of the multi-gate system that once kept the city protected from passing invaders.

Along with being used to grant or restrict entry to the inner streets, it served as the home of the local executioner, who would place a red rose on the windowsill to signal that a death was coming.

It still serves as a living space, although it’s more of a generalized apartment complex now; and as you stroll under its archway, you can almost feel yourself getting transported back into the past, when it was one of the most important points in town.

43 – Bring the whole gang out for food and fun in the Kalnciema Quarter

If you hear music and children’s laughter as you amble along the river, keep going; you’ll soon be in one of the liveliest neighborhoods in town!

The Kalnciema Quarter is famed for its creative and family-friendly atmosphere, with a near-constant stream of plays, art shows, and events for youngsters to enjoy.

And if you need a wholesome, healthy snack while you’re taking in all of the fun, take a little detour through Kalnciema kvartāls!

This iconic farmer’s market runs each Saturday, and is the perfect place to snag some delicious produce fresh from the source – you can enjoy a meal that’s truly local, right down to the roots!

44 – Get in touch with the great outdoors while hiking near Riga

With so many amazing landscapes just outside of town, be sure to save some time for a bit of hiking!

From wild to mild, these trails will show you a little bit of everything; and it’s well worth taking a guided excursion to get the most out of your time, with local outdoorsy types on-hand to tell you all about the various natural wonders that you’re passing by.

Beaches, woodlands, lakes, and biodiverse areas all mix together for an unforgettable day out!

And no trekking trip would be complete without a visit to Gauja National Park , whose splendid scenery includes rivers, caves, and hushed forests that envelop you in endless rows of green.

If you want to add some water exploration to your adventures, follow the placid currents and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings with a bit of kayaking !

• hiking near Riga

45 – Shimmy up the Riga Radio and TV Tower

Trust us, this isn’t your average station receptor!

Not only is it the third-tallest TV tower in Europe, but it’s also the tallest building in the surrounding region, at an impressive 93 meters (305 feet)!

You have two equally wonderful options when visiting this structure: admire its dizzying scope from the ground, or head up to the observation deck for a glorious elevated view of the city.

From its traditional Soviet-style design to the wonderful scenic panoramas it provides, the tower is one of the city’s most offbeat and beloved monuments – and on top of all of that, it still relays broadcasts!

46 – Follow the footsteps of pilgrims past at St. Gertrude’s Old Church

Regardless of your religious affiliation, there are few more fitting spots to stop on a vacation than a church devoted to the patron saint of travelers!

St. Gertrude’s was once located at the edge of town, just outside of the safeguarding walls, and was part of a long tradition of religious buildings said to be welcoming to those passing through.

Like many of its contemporaries, it went through numerous rounds of destruction and regrowth, before being reestablished in the Eclectic movement in the early 1900s.

It’s filled with ornate design details and gorgeous works of art, but there’s also a heavy spiritual presence here that transcends age and style, and makes it a compelling stop for all types of wanderers.

47 – Keep an eye out for the Town Musicians of Bremen

If you’ve never heard the tale of the musicians of Bremen, you’ll love this charming monument… but you may be surprised to find that the performers aren’t human ones!

The classic German fairytale of four elderly farm creatures seeking new lives as a traveling band has been beloved around the globe for years, and the little sculpture in the midst of town offers a charming, minimalist tribute to the famous critters.

The piece was donated to Riga by the actual city of Bremen, and it’s well worth looking for as you wander the city… think of it as a hidden treasure from the world of literature!

48 – Enjoy the breathtaking thrill of Dog Sledding

When the air turns crisp and the ground is layered with snow, you may find yourself dreaming of winter sports; and dog sledding is certainly one of the most exciting things to do in Riga!

Meet the enthusiastic pack of huskies that will serve as your four-legged tour guides for the day, and delve into the basics of sledding.

Then it’s time to hit the road!

A few simple commands are all it takes to get the dogs running, and before you know it, you’ll be flying through the woods, feeling the fresh air and enjoying your chilly surroundings in an invigorating fashion.

And if you’re visiting in the warmer months, fear not; a modified sled with wheels will let you get the same thrill, with fewer layers of jackets!

• dog sledding tours from Riga

49 – Lose yourself in learning at the many other wonderful museums

Back in town, you can keep indulging your cultural curiosity with the capital’s other amazing museums!

Watch the Earth taking form – then check out some taxidermied specimens of its coolest residents – at the Latvian Museum of Natural History . Or delve into the world of pills, hospital instruments, and shamanic tools at the Paul Stradins Museum of the History of Medicine .

Admire works from all over the world at Art Museum Riga Bourse , which features thousands of pieces dating all the way back to Ancient Egypt. Or take a sobering, impactful tour through the exhibits of the Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum , bringing faces and voices to the tragedy.

For curious minds and sweet teeth, the Laima Chocolate Museum explores the whole life cycle from bean to bar – with plenty of samples, of course! And visitors seeking a wonderful overview of the country, the National History Museum of Latvia offers infinite stories told in every format, from photographs to antique clocks.

Take a ride on the rails – or at least an imaginary one – at the Railway Museum , which celebrates the fascinating role of trains in the development of the country. Or keep indulging your creative side at Zuzeum Art Center , which boasts the largest Latvian art collection on Earth… the perfect place to celebrate the nation from a new angle!

50 – Get carried away with the shows at the city’s performing arts theaters

Moving on to live entertainment, there’s an incredible array of theatrical venues to enjoy, each with their own great designs and unique programs.

Mikhail Chekhov Riga Russian Theatre hearkens back to years of influence from the nearby monolith, with programs produced exclusively in Russian, and 140 years of dramatic productions under its belt.

Meanwhile, the New Riga Theatre promotes the avant-garde performance scene, with shows routinely hitting the international touring circuit.

The Latvian National Theatre combines spectacular architecture with a stellar lineup of national and international pieces that cover the whole spectrum of themes and moods.

And at Dailes Theater , you’ll truly get a grand experience; this is one of the biggest spaces for plays in all of the Baltics, and their shows have the production value and energy to match!

51 – Throw a few back at the best bars

What else would you expect from such a dynamic and high-energy town but a top-notch nightlife scene?

For great drinks with ambience to match NOPE, check out the amazing watering holes scattered all around the capital.

Throw back some drinks in the company of action figures at the geeky, nostalgia-heavy Clayton McNamaras Drinking Emporium , or try the famous balsam concoction at the cozy Black Magic Bar .

Try some local craft beer and enjoy the communal feel of Distillers Republic Distillerie , or pair your whiskey with a round of foosball at the Armoury Bar , which features a gun-themed aesthetic.

And if you want great cocktails and a social setting, check out Cynic Bar, famed for an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as the beverages.

Want to keep your drinking more organized, and make some friends along the way? Pub Crawls will help you start the night out right – but where it goes from there is up to you!

52 – Settle in for a leisurely meal at the best restaurants

Of course, a good trip isn’t just about the drinks… food plays a crucial role as well!

You can satisfy any and every palate around here, and enjoy a leisurely meal with the best that the city’s brilliant local chefs have to offer!

Try the elegant dishes and European flavors at Barents, or swing by Belgian Beer Cafe Bon Vivant for great vegetarian fare with brews to match.

Milda is the ideal stop for those seeking more traditional dishes, with a whole range of Russian, Latvian, and Eastern European cuisines; and Vincents provides similarly regional fare, with vegan and gluten free choices as well.

And while Two More Beers sounds more like a dive bar, it’s actually an excellent pace to grab a hearty lunch, excellent seafood, decadent desserts, and everything in between.

But if you’re looking for a particular mix of immersive entertainment, decadent feasts, and all-ages fun, don’t miss the Medieval dinner experience … the olden days have never been quite so lively!

How to get to Riga?

Riga Airport provides plenty of options for visitors, servicing airlines from all over Europe and beyond.

You can make your whole process a pleasant one by booking some airport transfers to and from the capital; with professional, timely service that can deliver you right to your hotel door, you can skip the hassle of navigating public transit, and focus on the epic trip ahead!

Where to stay in Riga?

Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah provides all of the best amenities of town practically outside the door, but with an excellent bar and comprehensive wellness center, you may not want to leave the building!

And at Hestia Hotel Draugi , you can kick back in the shared lounge after a long day of roaming around the nearby Old Town area.

Hestia Hotel Jugend is great for architecture fans, with its primo location in the heart of the Art Nouveau neighborhood.

And at Hampton by Hilton Riga Airport , you’re just a short drive from the city, and still get all of the benefits of a world-class hotel, including a great eatery and a gym.

Meanwhile, Hanza Hotel combines style with substance, with shops and cultural sites just a short jaunt down the road, and a traditional Latvian-style spa to relax in during the evenings.

• best hotels in Riga

Visiting Riga on budget?

There are plenty of amazing free walking tours in Riga to satisfy the mind, the feet, and the wallet!

These excursions are led by some of the most qualified and enthusiastic guides around: the locals!

And better yet, they each have their own unique stops and stories; if you have time, it’s well worth doing multiple tours to get a more comprehensive view of the capital.

From medieval streets to hidden Communist histories, there’s a whole smorgasbord of sights to enjoy – just be sure to bring some cash to tip your guides at the end!

Where to go next?

While the Latvian capital is great in and of itself, its centralized location also makes it a great jumping-off point to explore other Central European treasures.

In Lithuania, you have another dynamic capital in the form of Vilnius , where ancient castles and stunning churches blend perfectly with a blossoming creative scene.

Or pop over to Estonia’s main city, Tallinn , which seems half in the 1200s, half in the present, with a quirky and compelling style all its own.

Sweden offers up the beauties of Stockholm , home to bountiful museums, a lively party scene, and some truly spectacular natural spaces.

And nearby Finland provides adventure along the streets of Helsinki , where art, outdoorsy activities, and unique offerings all come together – seriously, where else can you check out historical toys after hanging out in a simulated rainforest?

Final thoughts

You can easily focus on certain groups of things to do in Riga, but it’s well worth trying a bit of everything; after all, the city’s magic lies in its intricate blend of the present and the past.

It may seem a little quiet on the surface, but once you start exploring this stunning city at length, you’ll quickly feel connected to its unique energy!

Come be part of the story!

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:
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• 4 Viewpoints in Riga For Panoramic Views & How To Visit Them!
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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!

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Riga's Old Town

Riga has become a top holiday destination for travelers from all over the world. The Old Town is the city’s very heart, showcasing well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow cobbled streets at every corner. From astonishing architecture to world-class museums, take a look at the top 10 things to see and do in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

1. Saint Peter's Church

Building, Church

Saint Peter’s Church

This Lutheran church is one of the oldest monument in Riga, though it looked now looks completely different from the original building, of which very little remains. What can be seen today is for the most part from the 15th and 17th centuries. The church’s 123-meter steeple, dominating the city, is unmissable. From there, the view of the Old Town and of the Daugava River is breath-taking, but make sure to go on a clear day. That being said, the interior should not be overlooked, as its three basilicas provide a fascinating insight into Riga ’s history. The church also holds temporary exhibitions of works by local artists.

Address: Saint Peter’s Church, Skārņu iela 19, Riga, + 371 67181430

Town Hall Square

This iconic square, a meeting place since the late 13th century, is a must-see for any visitor. Here Riga’s Hanseatic architecture is at its best, culminating in the world-famous House of Blackheads, built in the 14th century but so-called because in the 17th century its occupants were the merchants of the Brotherhood of Blackheads. It was unfortunately destroyed during World War II but has been rebuilt and stands as beautiful as ever since 1999. In addition to this important building, the square is home to a leading venue for contemporary art and to numerous bars and cafés, giving it a pleasant, old-fashioned atmosphere.

2. Riga Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

Riga Cathedral

Although Saint Peter’s is the more famous of the two, this church is Riga’s cathedral and deserves to be seen in its own right. It is so beautiful composer Franz Liszt wrote a piece in its honor. Built in the 13th century, it’s the largest medieval church in the Baltics but, like a lot of Riga’s landmarks, it has undergone extensive modifications since its foundation. Don’t forget to have a look at its organ, one of the biggest in Europe, and at its medieval cloisters.

Address: Riga Cathedral, Herdera laukums 6, Rīga, Latvia , + 371 67 227 573

Sit down at a café

Exploring the Old Town can be exhausting. To catch your breath, sit down in one of Riga’s charming cafés – on a terrace if it’s not too cold – and watch tourists and locals go about their business around, making Riga bustle with life. There you can, of course, have a cup of tea or coffee while people-watching, but why not give Latvia ’s national (alcoholic) drink, Riga Black Balsam, a try? Among Riga’s various establishments, we particularly like literary café Kafka, whose coffee is probably the best in the city.

Address: Kafka Kafija, Vaļņu iela 26, Riga, Latvia , + 371 22 335 131

Admire the Swedish Gate and the medieval streets

History buffs will love walking along the largest remaining portion of the medieval town walls to walk through the seventh-century Swedish Gate, the only remaining entrance to the Old Riga. It takes its name from the fact that back then Riga was part of the Swedish Empire. The oldest and narrowest streets in Riga, dating from the 13th and 14th century, sprawl beyond it, full of chatter from the lively bars and cafés that line them, such as local favorite I Love You .

3. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Building, Memorial, Museum

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

A big black building stands next to the beautiful Hanseatic architecture of the Town Hall Square: the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia . This haunting memorial of the period from 1940 to 1991 when Latvia was occupied by Soviet Russia, Nazi Germany, and then Soviet Russia again is really worth visiting to get a tangible glimpse of Latvia’s traumatic 20th-century history and remember the countless victims of World War II and of the Soviet Union.

Address: Raiņa bulvāris 7, Riga, Latvia , +371 67 212 715

4. Arsenal Museum of Art

Building, Museum

Arsenal Museum of Art

The impressive nineteenth-century arsenal building has been turned into Latvia’s largest exhibition hall and now hosts some of the most exciting exhibitions of Latvian art. The permanent displays comprises a collection of modern and contemporary paintings, sculptures and drawings by Latvian or Latvian-born artists like Jūlijs Feders, Janis Rozentāls and Vilhelms Purvītis. The temporary exhibitions are very varied, highlighting the work of artists from all over the world, such as Luxembourg -born photograph Edward Steichen. All in all, the Arsenal is one of the best art museums in Latvia and essential for anyone interested in the country’s cultural history.

Address: Torņa iela 1, Riga, Latvia , +371 67 357 527

5. The Three Brothers

The three brothers.

‘The Three Brothers’ is the nickname given to the three buildings in Maza Pils street forming Riga’s oldest complex of dwelling houses. Though very little is known about their history, each building illustrates a different period of the city’s architectural development. The oldest one, 17 Maza Pils Street, was built in the 15th century and has crow-stepped gables and Gothic and Renaissance elements, while the neighboring house, 19 Maza Pils, shows Dutch Mannerist influence, and the last one, house number 21, exemplifies 17th century Baroque architecture. Today, the buildings house the Latvian Museum of Architecture .

Address: Latvian Museum of Architecture, Maza Pils iela 19, Riga, Latvia, +371 67 220 779

Go out at night

Riga is an increasingly popular party hotspot, combining all the fun of big Western European cities and none of their high prices. The nightlife is concentrated in the Old Town, conveniently also where most hostels are located. There’s a little of everything hiding in Riga after dusk, from huge mainstream clubs to quiet cozy bars to alternative cultural centers. Have fun, but beware of stumbling on the cobblestones and of scammers preying on drunk tourists.

6. Riga Castle

Riga castle.

By Valentine Baldassari Riga Castle is another 14th-century Latvian monument that has been destroyed and rebuilt throughout the centuries. It is now home not only to the National History Museum , but also to the President’s residence and offices. For this reason, much of it is off-limits so keep to the tourist parts unless you fancy a run-in with angry Latvians. The museum is full of artifacts from Latvian history, including coins and costumes, but there is very little information available in English. Nevertheless, visiting the castle is worth it if only to admire the fortifications and take in the view of the Daugava. This monument was unfortunately damaged in a fire in 2013 so two years later parts of it are still undergoing renovation.

Address: Riga Castle, Pils laukums 3, Riga, Latvia, + 371 67 092 106

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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.

Things to do in Riga (in One Day!)

Last Updated: November 18, 2023

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This list of things to do in Riga was written during a brief Spring visit to the city. During this trip, I was a guest of the Bellevue Park Hotel Riga and was provided with free entrance to St. Peter’s Church courtesy of Visit Riga.

In my early days of backpacking Europe , a reckless will to save money is what led me to Riga, Latvia.

Booking my ticket to Helsinki, I noticed a certain pattern with Baltic Air flights to Finland – the longer your layover in Riga, the cheaper your flight. 

So Riga it was – even if I had no idea of what to do or see in Riga (the capital of Latvia, and the largest capital in the Baltics, in case you didn’t know).

With a long layover of only 18 hours, I soon discovered that Riga is a tremendously lovely city, with a pretty cobblestone-studded charm on the outside, and a vibrant energy bubbling underneath through a mix of hip restaurants and cool museums.

Much like in nearby Vilnius , I was wonderfully surprised.

So, here is a list of awesome and fun things to do in Riga, Latvia… even if you only have one day like I did!

Save this list of things to do in Riga for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Wander around Old Town, Riga’s Historical Centre

This is the touristic heart of Riga, and exploring here is the perfect thing to do in Riga if you only have one day… especially because the architecture is so varied and gorgeous.

During my visit on a grey and chilly March day, Riga was so empty that I ran into people from my flight several times. By the end of the day, I was a master at awkward, knowing bouts of eye contact!

The quiet vibe was perfect though. For about an hour, I just walked around the Old Town, whose 500+ buildings blend together a mix of architectural styles from art nouveau and neoclassical to gothic. In fact, UNESCO has recognized Riga’s historical centre as a a place of outstanding universal value, thanks largely to its “living illustration of European history”.

Visit the House of Blackheads

While the name of this Riga attraction reminds me of painful pore strips and teen skincare woes, one look at this magnificent building and all teen trauma is erased. 

Originally built in the 14th century, the House of Blackheads was once an event space for The Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild of unmarried merchants and shipowners (in other words, a 14th century frat). Today, it houses a museum and possibly the best photo opp in the city.

The distinctive facade of this building is thanks to its adaptation to evolving trends… with new additions and modifications made over the years as architectural tastes changed. That’s why the House of Blackheads today is such a wonderful mish-mash of aesthetics.

Visiting the House of Blackheads is definitely one of the top things to do in Riga, since this is (arguably) the building that the city is most proud of. In fact, the president of Latvia even relocated here for 4 years when Riga Castle was being renovated.

NOTE: The structure you see before you today is relatively new, as the House of Blackheads was destroyed in the Second World War and only rebuilt in 1999 according to historical photos and plans.

Get a great view from St Peter’s Church

Riga is an old city dating back to the early 13th century, but its charm runs far deeper than simply being ‘old’. It’s a clever mix of metropolitan meets medieval, with toy town-esque buildings sharing skyline space with glassy modern structures. 

The view from St Peter’s Church is definitely the best in the city, and allows you to appreciate the unique Riga skyline from various perspectives. Definitely a must if you’re a sucker for excellent photo opps like me.

Say hi to Riga’s Three Brothers

For a visual timeline of architectural evolution, head to Riga’s oldest housing complex, known as The Three Brothers. 

Legend has it that these thee adjacent houses were built by descendants from the same family.

PS: If you’re curious for a peek inside, the green brother on the left is (coincidentally) home to Riga’s museum of architecture.

Peek into the narrowest street in the city 

This was one of the more curious things to do in Riga I stumbled upon… actually, I did so completely by accident. 

One random turn and boom – I found myself on Rozena Street, known as the narrowest street in Riga… straight out of a medieval storybook.

Grab some delicious eats at Riga’s Central Market

The Old Town made for a lovely walk, but when the hunger pangs began to settle in, I knew it was time to shift locations. 

To settle my rumbling stomach, I knew exactly where I needed to go: Riga’s Central Market (Centraltirgus), one of the largest and busiest markets in Eastern Europe. 

Housed in repurposed zeppelin hangars, the market is organized into five pavilions selling vegetables, dairy, meat, fish and gastronomy products. 

I spent over an hour browsing the many stands of the market, communicating with gestures and simple English to secure myself a delightfully cheap assortment of baked goods. 

I ended up with a big sack of sweet and savoury snacks for only 2 euros! Best money I’ve ever spent.

Explore Riga’s Art Nouveau scene

Riga is known to have the highest concentration of art nouveau buildings anywhere in the world… and since I live in Munich , where the term “Jugendstil” was actually coined, I figured this was a must-do thing in Riga. 

Fun fact: 1/3 of the buildings in Riga’s centre are actually art nouveau, so if you’re a fan of this architectural style, you might want to book a flight ASAP.

Because of the high number of art nouveau buildings in Riga, you’ll be able to spot some no matter where you go, but to round off my day, I decided to go on a little walk towards Albert Street (Alberta Iela) – a street famous for its elaborate Art Nouveau architecture. 

And well, I’ll let the photos speak for themselves:

NOTE: I reached this area after a 30 minute walk from Riga’s Old Town, but I wouldn’t recommend this activity unless you love architecture because while the street is pretty, at the end of the day it’s simply a street, with mostly residential buildings.

Visit Bastejkalns Park

On my way back from geeking out at Riga’s Art Nouveau on Albert Street, I got to walk through Bastejkalns Park, which was beautiful even in the gloomy March weather.

This spacious park is a must-see in Riga if weather is on your side, because it’s filled with sculptures, tranquil waterfalls, and beautiful flowers come Spring time.

Admire Riga’s Freedom Monument

This central landmark of Riga is located near Bastejkalns Park, and stands as a monument dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives during the Latvian War of Independence. 

This towering monument is just under 43m tall, and serves as a symbol for Latvia’s freedom and independence. 

Fun fact: This monument was funded 100% from donations made by the public.

Go church hopping

I’ve already talked about St Peter Church in Riga and its splendid view, but the city is actually full of wonderfully beautiful churches to see.

During my walk for example, I passed by the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, a Neo-Byzantine beauty known for its icons. 

There’s of course also Riga Cathedral, whose foundation stone was laid all the way back in the 13th century, making it the oldest religious site in the entire country,

Head to a unique museum

Unfortunately, my meagre one day in Riga didn’t allow me time to dive into Riga’s unique museum scene…

But you should definitely know that one of the top things to do in Riga is to visit one of its many museums! Some of them are so quirky and fun.

Here are a few examples of unique museums you’ll find in Riga:

• The World of Hat – a museum dedicated to… hats
• The Corner House – the former KGB headquarters that now houses a museum about this dark chapter of Riga’s history
• Art Nouveau Museum – dedicated of course to Riga’s favourite architectual style

Visit the Awesome National Library of Latvia

Again, I didn’t make it to this amazing architectural marvel, but I thought my list of things to do in Riga would be missing without it… so if you’re headed to Riga, please go on my behalf and nerd out at the epic-ness of it all.

Yes, Latvia’s National Library is shaped like a modern mountain. And yes, you can visit it for yourself!

This building is a relatively new addition to Riga’s varied cityscape – opening its doors in 2014. Today, you can book a tour or simply get a visitor’s pass.

Final Tips for a Long Layover in Riga

Last but not least, I want to leave you with some final tips in case you’re reading this with a long layover in Riga planned, just like I did.

Do head into town, even if you only have a few hours

The Riga airport has the extra convenient perk of being a short 30 minutes away from the Old Town via public transport.

This means that even if your layover is short, you can squeeze in a quick visit to Riga’s very beautiful historic centre, which is easily explored by foot in a few hours, with plenty of spots to eat. Sure beats rotting away at the airport, right?

If your layover is overnight, do find a place to stay 

When your next flight is early the next morning, it may be tempting to forgo a hotel and just sleep at the airport.

While this could be a good way to save a few euros, it’s important to note that hotels and hostels in Latvia are scores cheaper than most parts of Europe, so you can easily have a comfortable night without breaking the bank.

I was kindly hosted by the Bellevue Park Hotel Riga , which was only about 25 minutes from the airport by bus, and 5 minutes from the city centre by tram.

My stay was very comfortable and the location was great! I would definitely recommend it if you ever need a place to stay in Riga.

Do your research in advance and prioritize where you want to go

Having a limited amount of time to explore means you shouldn’t waste a single second!

Don’t spend your precious minutes deciding what to do once you get there… be sure to plan in advance. If you’re reading this, I assume you’re off to a good start.

There’s plenty of cool things to see and do in Riga, so choose a few and plan accordingly.

To help guide your way, pick up a map from the Tourist Information Centre in the middle of the Old Town.

Don’t be unrealistic and try to do too much

Too many people fall into the trap of sightseeing themselves to death.

If you’re barreling through a to-do list just to say you’ve ‘seen the city’, stop yourself because that kind of mentality can easily kill your enjoyment. 

When it comes to layovers, your time is limited, so if you try to cram too many activities into your stay, then you’ll quickly feel rushed.

Stick to a reasonable itinerary and allow yourself plenty of flex-time to get back to the airport.

I hope you enjoyed this roundup of what to do in Riga!

Let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your favourite Riga must-dos.

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13 Best Things To Do In Riga, Latvia (2024)

• Last Updated: April 7, 2024
• Destinations , Europe , Latvia

I’ll get straight to the point. Riga is hands-down one of the most underrated cities in Europe.

The capital of Latvia (and the largest city in the Baltic region) has acquired something of a reputation as a party destination in recent years.

It’s true, the drink is cheap, and the parties can be wild.  But there are so many other things to do in Riga, it’s a fantastic city to visit whether you’re partying or not.

The city is clean, safe, walkable, and packed full of interesting sights and experiences. I spent a week exploring Riga and was seriously impressed by how liveable – and just downright nice – this city is.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Riga

Whether you’re in Riga for a long weekend, a week, or longer, you’ll find no shortage of interesting sights, sounds and tastes.

Here are my top recommendations.

See also:  Basic Latvian Phrases For Travel

1. Go On A Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to get a feel for a new city is to take a walking tour , and Riga is no exception.

Riga Free Tours and Free Tours Riga each offer English-language walking tours of the city’s main sights.

These are organised and led by locals who are passionate about their city, its history, architecture and culture.

You can ask questions and learn a lot more about the city than you would from simply reading a guidebook.  Highly recommended!

There are daytime and evening tours .  Some focus more on the Old City, others on the famous Art Nouveau architecture, and others on food and drink.

Most walking tours start from outside St. Peter’s Church , near the Town Hall Square.  Check out the above websites for up-to-date departure times and further info.

The tours are free, but tips are always greatly appreciated at the end.

2. Old City Riga (Vecrīga)

The historic centre of Riga (Vecrīga) has been recognised as a  World Heritage site by UNESCO, which describes it as “ a living illustration of European history “.

Much of it is pedestrianised and easily explorable on foot.

The Old City is full of different styles of architecture. I love exploring its narrow cobbled streets .

Immaculately preserved wooden buildings are nestled between colourful medieval houses .

You’ll also see grand Gothic and modernist civic buildings and some of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the world.

A few of the highlights (which are visited on most walking tours – see above ) include:

• the medieval Swedish Gate  – one of the main entrances to Riga through the historical city walls.
• the Three Brothers – these three colourful buildings are the oldest houses still standing in Riga, the oldest of which was built in 1490.  Today, they house the Latvian Museum of Architecture.
• the Cat House – a large yellow Art Nouveau building with statues of cats sitting on its rooftops.  A famous landmark and one of the (slightly bizarre) symbols of the city.

You’ll find many restaurants , bars and cafes lining the streets and squares of the Old Town, as well as art galleries and independent shops .

It’s true, parts of Vecrīga are becoming a little touristy. But the overall lack of visitor numbers means it doesn’t feel spoiled or overrun. For now.

3. House Of The Blackheads & Riga Town Hall Square

In the heart of the Old City, the iconic House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju Nams) stands proudly overlooking Riga’s Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums).

The original House was built to be a public meeting place .  Later on, it became home to the  Brotherhood of Blackheads , an association of foreign (mostly German) merchants and traders.

Meetings, banquets, and other celebrations have been held here for hundreds of years.

This is one of Latvia’s most famous historical monuments .  However, the current building is actually a reconstruction that was only finished in the 1990s.

Riga was bombed heavily in the Second World War, and the original building , which dated back to 1334 , was sadly destroyed.  The basement vaults are the only original parts that survived.

The building’s original entrance contained a carving, saying:  “ Should I ever crumble to dust, rebuild my walls you must… ”.

Amazingly, this actually happened, the House was restored to its former glory and re-opened in 1999.

You can visit the building’s ornate interior, as well as the original medieval cellars, on a guided tour.

Fun fact :  Riga claims to be the home of the first-ever Christmas tree, which was supposedly decorated by the Brotherhood of Blackheads on this spot in 1510.  Though Tallinn, in neighbouring Estonia, also stakes a similar claim…  

( See my guide to Tallinn here !)

4. Central Market (Centrāltirgus)

The Central Market (Centrāltirgus)  is one of the most unique and iconic places in the city.

Five old German zeppelin hangers (originally built in the 1920s) today house the largest market and bazaar in Europe .  It’s really huge, spreading over 72,000 square metres, with more than 3,000 traders.

Up to 100,000 people come here every day to shop for their groceries, fresh produce, hardware, and even clothes.

Within the market, there are charming cafes and quaint eateries offering a variety of delights. Indulge in a cup of coffee, a refreshing juice, or savour local delicacies.

Don’t miss the diverse selection of fish – cured, smoked, or fresh, alongside meats, cheeses, and Latvia’s renowned rye bread.

Exploring this place is one of my favourite things to do in Riga.  Don’t miss it!

5. Panorama Riga Observation Deck

To enjoy one of the best views in Riga, head to the Latvian Academy of Sciences .

For a few Euros, you can visit the open-air balcony (called “ Panorama Riga “) on the 17th floor.  The observation deck offers fantastic 360-degree panoramic views over the whole city.

This skyscraper was built between 1953-61 and stands at a proud height of 107 metres.

Locally known as “ Stalin’s birthday cake ”, it’s one of the best examples of Stalinist architecture outside Russia.

The tower has over 700 rooms , today many of which are used by scientists, researchers and historians.  There’s even a concert hall on the ground floor.

Although the majority of the building is not open to the public, it’s worth having a little nose around between the 15th floor (where the elevator stops) and the 17th floor (where you access the viewing balcony).

The building feels like a time warp.

It’s the old Soviet-era memorabilia, furniture, posters, noticeboards, hammer and sickle decorations, and that indescribable “old” musty smell that I’ve only ever experienced in old buildings in the former USSR.

It’s very cool.

6. Freedom Monument

In the very centre of Riga, the Freedom Monument is an important national memorial dedicated to the Latvians who died fighting for their country’s independence between 1918-20.

It features a statue of a woman holding three golden stars above her head, symbolising Latvian independence, national unity, and freedom.

The granite base is decorated with images and representations celebrating Latvian culture and history.

Latvia has been occupied by several different foreign powers throughout history – including by Sweden, Nazi Germany, and the Soviet Union.

It suffered considerably throughout these periods, especially during the twentieth century.

As a result, the celebration of freedom and independence is particularly important here.

7. Albert Street & Art Nouveau Architecture

Riga has one of the highest concentrations of Art Nouveau architecture of any city in the world.  By some counts, up to a third of all of the buildings in the city centre feature this distinct style.

Art Nouveau is an elaborate artistic style, common between 1890 and 1910, that is characterised by the blending of images of nature, mythology, curves and flowing lines.

Some of the best examples can be found on Albert Street (Alberta Iela) – north of the Old Town, a short walk from Kronvalda Park.

Here you’ll also find the Riga Art Nouveau Museum (Riga Jugendstila Centrs).

This museum showcases a range of furniture, artwork, clothing and interior design all in the Art Nouveau style.

It’s housed inside the former apartment of Konstantīns Pēkšēns – one of the most famous Latvian architects. The building’s beautiful grand staircase is exquisite.

8. Parks & Gardens

There are many lush green parks and gardens in Riga.  These are great places to stop and relax during a long day of sightseeing.

Bring a book, nap under a tree, or just sit in the sunshine and watch the world go by.

Bastejkalna Park borders the eastern edge of the Old Town.

The Riga city canal (Pilsētas kanāls) snakes its way through the park, under ornamental bridges, and past the towering Freedom Monument.

Its banks are beautifully landscaped and decorated with flowers, shrubs, trees, and little man-made waterfalls.

The canal itself is actually part of the city’s old moat.  Bastejkalna Park’s highest point – called Bastion Hill – used to be the site of Riga’s medieval fortifications.

Nearby Kronvalda Park is the oldest park in the city.  The canal also runs through this park, and here you’ll find various species of rare, exotic and local plants and trees.

Several sculptures commemorate important Latvian historical figures and famous former residents.

The park regularly hosts open-air art exhibitions and showcases .  Some of these can be a bit strange…

Across the river

Head over to the other side of the river to visit Victory Park (Uzvaras Parks ), in the quieter Āgenskalns district.

This enormous green space is full of wildflowers, has a couple of small lakes, and various areas for outdoor activities.  There’s even an area for cross-country skiing in the wintertime.

During the warmer months, it’s a perfect place for a picnic.

In the centre of the park is the Victory Memorial (AKA, the “ Monument to the Liberators of Soviet Latvia and Riga from the German Fascist Invaders “).

Built in 1985, it’s dedicated to the soldiers of the Soviet Army who liberated Riga from the Nazis.

This impressive structure features a 79-metre tall obelisk with five Soviet stars and various sculptures.

9. Museum Of The Occupation Of Latvia

Latvia was occupied for more than half of the 20th century , from 1940 until 1991.  During this dark period, the country suffered greatly at the hands of both the Nazis and the Soviets.

Located next to the House of the Blackheads, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is a sobering memorial to the victims of the Holocaust in Latvia and the subsequent Soviet repression.

Housed inside a large modern black building, this excellent museum educates visitors about Latvia’s painful recent history – and the terrible crimes which were inflicted upon vast numbers of people in this corner of Europe.

It has a large collection of witness testimonials, audio recordings, videos, and thousands of objects collected during the long periods of occupation.

It’s shocking and at times disturbing, but I think everybody should visit this museum.

10. KGB Building

Inside an attractive Art Nouveau building called the Corner House (Stura Maja) , on Brivibas Street, is the Latvian former headquarters of the KGB , the feared Soviet secret police.

On the ground floor, there is a museum detailing the (oppressive and brutal) history and activities of the KGB in Latvia.  You can also take guided tours of the chilling basement prison cells , which are grim, to say the least.

It’s another very sobering place, but important to visit to get a deeper understanding of Latvia’s difficult recent history.

11. Churches & Cathedrals

There are several beautiful churches and cathedrals in Riga, both Lutheran and Eastern Orthodox.

You’ll notice that many of them have roosters at the top of their spires, rather than crosses.  According to Latvian tradition, roosters were placed there to scare away the devil.

Riga Cathedral , in the heart of the Old Town, is one of the oldest religious buildings in the Baltic region.  Built in 1211, it is the seat of the Archbishop of the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church.

It’s been modified and renovated several times over the past 800 years, and today is made up of an interesting mixture of Baroque, Gothic, Romanesque and Art Nouveau architecture.

The cathedral’s elaborate organ is stunning – and massive – with 6,718 pipes.  It was the most advanced piece of technology in the world at the time it was completed in 1883.

The nearby St. Peter’s Church , built in 1209, has an observation deck built into its tower.  From here, you get great views out over the city, especially of the winding cobbled streets of the Old Town.

It’s relatively accessible – an elevator runs up the centre of the tower – and is located near the city centre, making this an easy stop on your city tour.

(Although I personally prefer the view from (and lack of people at) the “ Panorama Riga” Observation Deck – above.)

Eastern Orthodox

Just northeast of the Old Town, the Nativity of Christ Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Riga.

With sparkling golden domes and a colourful ornate interior, this lavishly designed Neo-Byzantine cathedral is very different in look and feel from the other churches in the city.

During the Soviet era, the cathedral was forced to close, and was converted into a planetarium , called the Republic House of Knowledge.

In the years following Latvian independence, it was restored and is now once again an Orthodox church.

12. Jūrmala

An easy 30-minute train ride from Riga takes you to the sandy beaches of Jūrmala .

Latvia’s most famous seaside resort has over 30 kilometres of golden sandy beaches , with clear waters, lush pine forests, and beautifully fresh Baltic air.

Jūrmala feels like a world away from the buzz of Riga.

You can swim in the sea (in summer), tackle one of the cross-country skiing trails (in winter), or  hire a bike and cycle along the stunning coastline.

Alternatively, explore the  Dzintari Forest Park , indulge in a spa treatment surrounded by nature, or visit one of the many restaurants and wine bars .

It’s a fantastic spot, popular with people from Riga and further afield.  If you have the time, I’d definitely recommend checking it out during your stay in Riga.

Practical Information & Tips for Visiting Riga

Here’s some additional information and tips to help you plan a trip to Riga.

Best time to visit Riga

Riga is an amazing city to visit at  any time of year .

Summer (June-August) is when the weather is most pleasant – expect daytime temperatures between 20-30°C.

These are also the busiest months, especially at the weekends, although it’s still nowhere near as crowded as other better-known European cities.

Spring and Autumn (April-May / September-October) are also great times to visit, with fewer tourists, although the evenings can get quite cold.

Winters in the Baltic region can be very  cold.  Warm clothes are a must. On the upside, you’ll be one of the only tourists in the city, and accommodation is often cheaper.  You can also ski!

How to get to Riga

For most people, the easiest and fastest way to get to Riga is to fly.

Riga airport is a regional hub, and several major airlines fly here, including Air Baltic, Ryanair and British Airways.

Due to the competition, you can often get cheap flights to Riga from all over Europe (especially from cities like London ).

To get from the airport to the centre of the city, I recommend taking a Bolt taxi .  (Similar to Uber, but cheaper and – in my experience – better.)

If you’re already in the Baltic region , Riga is connected to the other major cities (e.g. Tallinn and Tartu in Estonia, or  Vilnius and Klaipeda in Lithuania) by regular bus services .

There are also trains , although these tend to be slower and often require you to change trains mid-journey.

You can also reach Riga from Russia and/or Belarus , either by coach or train.  However, if you’re pressed for time, it’s much quicker to fly.

Getting around Riga

Riga is a fairly compact city and the Old Town is largely pedestrianised.  Many of the best things to see in Riga are within easy walking distance of each other.  This makes it a perfect place to explore on foot .

The city has a network of Soviet-era trams if you feel like venturing further afield (or just fancy a ride on one).  There are also various different buses and trolleybuses.

Useful links:

• Timetables and info for Riga’s bus, tram, and trolleybus network
• Bike rental in Riga

Latvia is in the Schengen Area.  Many nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.

If you require a visa, I recommend using iVisa.com .  Their online visa processing service is quick, secure, and easy to use.

Final Thoughts

Riga is a perfect destination for an alternative European city break.

It’s a vibrant, youthful place, with a long and fascinating history, unique architecture, lush green parks, an amazing food and drink scene, and a general quirkiness that I love.

Still a relatively undiscovered destination, Riga is much less crowded than many other European cities.  As a result, you can explore and enjoy this amazing medieval city almost entirely to yourself.

You should visit Riga – it’s awesome.

If you’re looking for other alternative city break destinations, check out some of my other posts, including:

• Naples, Italy
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Split, Croatia
• Almaty, Kazakhstan  ( &  Day Trips from Almaty )
• Kolkata, India

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Related posts.

• Basic Latvian Phrases For Travel
• New Year, New Adventures: 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Latvia in 2024
• New Year, New Adventures: 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Estonia in 2024
• Exploring Tallinn's Old Town: Estonia's Beautiful Medieval Capital (2024)
• Basic Estonian Phrases For Travel

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31 Amazing Things To Do in Riga, Latvia on Holiday

If you’re looking for an amazing, out-of-the-box destination for your next holiday, look no further.

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a lowkey city that is located along the Baltic Sea. When you visit this pretty city, you’ll never run out of interesting activities to fill your day.

Climb aboard as we make our way through a list of the 31 best things to do in Riga.

Fun Attractions and Activities in Riga, Latvia

As an explorer and adventurer, you’re probably looking for a holiday destination that is unique and exciting.

You could go visit the Eiffel Tower and Trevi Fountain like millions of other tourists, or you could make your way up to Northern Europe and explore the medieval town of Riga.

Latvia’s capital is teeming with rich culture and history. Every corner tells a story.

Today, we’re bringing you the best things to do in Riga so that you can easily plan the holiday of your dreams. Explore our list of the most amazing attractions in Riga!

Ready to take off to Riga? Start by booking your flight!

1. Explore the Corner House

Riga’s Corner House is the perfect attraction for those who want to learn a little more about the Soviets.

This attraction used to serve as a KGB living quarters. It is a permanent exhibit in the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.

Guided tours cost 10 euros for adults. The museum offers discounted tickets for students at only 4 euros.

2. Make a Pit Stop at the Very Old Oak Tree

Riga has faced a bit of turmoil throughout its history. Independence has come and gone, but one thing has stood the test of time: Riga’s Very Old Oak Tree.

For thousands and thousands of years, a giant oak tree has remained in Riga as a symbol of Latvia’s strength and resilience against the foreign powers that have conquered their lands throughout time.

The tree no longer stands on its own but lies on the cobblestone street beside the Town Hall Building. The Very Old Oak Tree is slowly fossilizing.

The Very Old Oak Tree is such an interesting icon of Latvian history.

3. Take Photos in Front of the Three Brothers

Looking for an instagrammable stop in Riga? Look no further. The Three Brothers are iconic Lavian houses that are the perfect backdrop for your photos.

The Three Brothers are not homes. They are actually part of the Latvian Museum of Architecture.

The design of the Three Brothers is set up to portray different phases of development in Latvian home designs.

4. Shop at Riga Central Market

Riga Central Market is the best place in the city to buy meat, produce and other goods. Since Riga is right on the sea, the fish is particularly fresh.

The market was created with the intent of stimulating the local economy and promoting tourism. You can check out their full set of goals and mission statements on their site .

5. Read a Book in the Castle of Light

The Castle of Light, which is a nickname for the National Library of Latvia , is a great place to step away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The library is loaded with thousands of wonderful books and cute little spaces to read the day away.

Admission to the library is 1 euro for the first hour and 0,65 euro for each hour after that.

6. Take a Stroll Through Vermanes Garden

Take a walk over to the city centre to enjoy the Vermanes Garden .

The Vermanes Garden is known as the second oldest park in Latvia’s capital. It is always full of tourists and locals who are out to see the beauty of the park.

In Vermanes Garden, you’ll find an abundance of statues, artwork, plants and an open air entertainment stage. There is always something going on in this busy park!

7. See the Taxidermied Two-Headed Dog

• Stradins Museum for History of Medicine is the place to be for anybody who is fascinated by medicine and science.

This unbelievably cheap museum is the home of the taxidermied two-headed dog. This freakish pup was created by a scientist who was exploring the world of organ transplants. The dog experiment was conducted by merging two canine circulatory systems.

8. Admire the Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau , which is known as “Jugendstil” by the Germans, is a style of architecture that graces the streets of Riga.

To see this unique style of architecture, you can head on over to Centrs neighborhood. You don’t want to miss it!

9. Step into the Nativity of Christ Cathedral

Want to catch a Sunday service, say a quick prayer or simply enjoy some killer art? The Nativity of Christ Cathedral is the place for you.

This cathedral pridefully holds the title of the oldest orthodox church in all of Riga. This magnificent dome is its most prominent feature.

10. Taste the Flavors of Riga

Snacking your way through a new city is always a safe bet, especially when the city has a cuisine as magnificent as Riga.

When you’re in Riga, you’ve got to have some rye bread. No questions asked. This brown bread is paired with nearly every meal.

In addition to the famous Baltic bread, you’ll find that many traditional Latvian dishes include soups, pork, mushrooms, fish and potatoes.

Don’t worry about bland food. Latvians love their dill. This subtle spice will add a bit of flavor to many of the dishes you’ll enjoy in Riga.

You probably won’t want to do much cooking in Riga since your days will be filled with adventure and exploration, so let the chefs are some of the most delicious restaurants take the reins.

Grab a bite at some of Riga’s most delicious restaurants.

Best Restaurants in Riga

• Rozengrals : Have you ever considered having dinner in a medieval wine cellar? If not, you should! Rozengrals is the best place to eat if you’re looking for some medieval vibes.
• Koya : Looking for some finer dining? Stop by Koya for a fancier dinner.
• Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs : This restaurant is the perfect place for traditional Latvian flavors. You can expect hearty meat and potato dishes at this restaurant.
• Palgams : Palgams is open from breakfast to dinner. It is the perfect spot for good food, good vibes and good times.

11. Check Out Riga’s Black Cats

Riga has two famous cats that guard the house across the street from the Great Guild Hall. The house that they perch upon is over 100 years old.

The cats were placed in the direction of the Great Guild Hall for reasons that are a bit unclear. Legend has it that it has to do with an issue between the homeowner and the guild.

A court order demanded that the cats be moved to point a different way.

Stop by and take a picture of these creepy kitties.

12. Have a Drink with the Locals

Looking for a fun way to spend your evening? Let loose, have a drink and unwind with the Latvians!

Latvia is full of cool bars. Whether you’re looking for a classy venue to sip wine or a laid back bar to chug a beer, you’ll find what you like in Latvia.

Pick the bars that are best for you and make a marathon of it! Pub crawls are a fan favorite in Riga.

Explore some of the best places to drink in Riga!

5 Best Bars in Riga

• Garage Wine Bar
• Skyline Bar

13. Zoom Over to the Riga Aviation Museum

Are you ready to take flight at the Riga Aviation Museum ?

Learn about a multitude of aircrafts at this soarin’ museum. You’ll see helicopters, gliders, fighter jets and more!

Tickets for this museum run at only 7 euro.

14. Take a Free Walking Tour of Riga

Free walking tours offer a cool way to get to know a new place. You get to see the whole city from the perspective of your choice. There are options that focus on art or culture or something super random!

Many cities encourage the young locals to become tour guides. This is a productive activity that keeps the youth out of trouble.

Be sure to leave your guide a small tip to the volunteer guides! After all, they have to make a living, too.

15. Have a Shopping Spree at Bergs Bazaar

Bergs Bazaar is a lovely place to spend your evening in Riga. This shopping center is filled with high end stores that sell everything from clothing to fine wines.

There are also several dining options at Bergs Bazaar. One of the most delicious is Cydonia, a gastropub.

16. Take a Day Trip to Sigulda

Sigulda is a historic town in Latvia that is just about an hour drive from the capital, which makes it the perfect destination for a day trip when you’re staying in the capital.

Sigulda is full of magnificent castles and amazing landscapes. It is the perfect place to escape the busyness of the city.

17. Learn About Latvian Culture at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum

Latvia’s Open Air Ethnographic Museum is a wonderful spot to dive into the history of this little country.

This museum provides representation of the agricultural history of all four of Latvia’s provinces. It also showcases different religious beliefs that have been celebrated across the country.

The Open Air Ethnographic Museum is considered to be the best of its kind across all of Europe. You can’t miss the opportunity to check it out.

18. See the House of the Blackheads

Are you ready for a fancy photo op? Stroll on over to the House of the Blackheads .

The outside of this elaborate palace is absolutely gorgeous and the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post.

House of the Blackheads’ inside is open to guests and tours. It drips in elegance and royalty. You cannot miss this beautiful attraction.

19. Be Wowed by the Artwork at the Latvian National Museum of Art

Hey, art lovers. We’ve got the perfect spot for you!

The Latvian National Museum of Art is one of Northern Europe’s coolest art galleries. This museum covers everything from more traditional Latvian art to bright modern art.

This museum is also great for those who have a thing for architecture. Riga’s architecture is quite unique, so it is showcased in this museum, as well.

20. Overlook Riga from St. Peter Cathedral

Here at Hekla, we can appreciate a good observation deck. Riga’s best overlook is form the St. Peter Cathedral .

This Lutheran church is one of the oldest buildings in all of Latvia. It’s tower marks the highest point in Riga which is why it offers a view so magical.

Check out St. Peter’s events calendar so that you can plan your tour accordingly!

21. Make Some Furry Friends at Riga Zoo

If zoos are up your alley, you will not be disappointed by Riga Zoo .

The most interesting furry friends at the Riga Zoo include the poodle donkey, homes yak, rock duck and kiang. You’ll find many species that are native to places both near and far.

The zoo is pretty special because it has a mission of species conservation and species reintroduction. It aims to keep rare species alive and well with the hopes of increasing their populations in their native lands.

Admission to the zoo is 7 euro for adults and 5 euro for seniors, students and children. Bring the whole family!

22. Check Out Hats from Around the World

World of Hat is one of Riga’s most unique museums. As its name suggests, it features hats from around the world.

This museum is great for those who are interested in collections of random things. It’s also great for those who are interested in learning about different cultures through hats.

23. See the Marker of the First Public Christmas Tree

Riga is supposedly the home of one of Europe’s first Christmas trees. There is a marker downtown that signifies the location of this historic tree.

If you love the Yuletide as much as we do, you’ve got to check out this neat landmark.

24.Spend the Afternoon in Old Town Riga

Old Town Riga is the historical hotspot of this small capital. It is one of the most happening places around town.

You’ll find the best restaurants and bars in Old Town Riga. It’s cobblestone streets and historic buildings are also particularly Instagrammable.

25. Catch a Show at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet

The National Opera and Ballet is one of Riga’s finer establishments.

This opera house remains loyal to the romantic and classical genres. From time to time, you’ll find more modern work being showcased on these fine stages.

What sort of show would you like to see in Riga?

26. Visit Big Christopher

Big Christopher is a wonderful icon in Riga that merges religion and folklore.

This big guy is known to have carried the weight of Jesus Christ on his shoulder. He is also known to have carried the bulk of the people’s sins.

This statue was created in 1997, but the myth dates back to the third century.

Today, you can find Big Christopher in the Museum of Riga.

27. Rev Your Engines at the Riga Motormuseum

If you like new cars, old cars, cool cars and hot cars, you’ve got to zoom on over the the Riga Motormuseum .

This museum has a large collection of antique cars. It also has a super cool driving simulator, which is a favorite of the tiniest of visitors.

This museum is full of great fun for any family who loves cars!

28. Admire the Wooden Houses at Kalnciems

Wooden architecture is a big deal in Riga. The Wooden Houses in the neighborhood Kalnciems, which represent this wonderful building style, are absolutely adorable.

Riga continued to build wooden houses long after the rest of Europe resorted to building with more modern materials.

29. Visit the Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument is one of the most important attractions in all of Riga. As the name suggests, it represents the nation’s liberty.

After a long fight for its freedom, Latvian independence is surely something to be celebrated.

This granite sculpture is protected by an honorary guard who represents the fight for freedom.

30. Stop by the Stonehead of Salaspils

What’s more interesting than a stone head that sort of looks like a troll and is likely 500 years old?

The Stonehead of Salaspils is an ancient art piece that is recognized as a magnificent attraction not only in Riga but in all of Europe.

Visit this interesting artwork and learn more of its exciting history!

31. Grab a Coffee in Riga

You can’t go wrong with a coffee break in Riga. Cute coffee shops and cafes are the perfect place to step away from the craziness of your day of touring and exploring.

Coffee shops are also great spots for digital nomads who are always exploring new cities but still have work to get done.

In this city, you’re going to have to check out some of the local spots because there is no Starbucks to be found. To be honest, you’re probably going to have a more memorable experience at a little hole in the wall than you would at Starbucks anyway.

Take a look at the cutest coffee shops in Riga. Which will you stop by for a cup o’ joe?

Best Coffee Shops in Riga

• MiiT : Looking for some specialty coffee to go with your veggie lunch? MiiT is the perfect spot for you!
• Cafe M : If you live a zero waste lifestyle or if you’re interested in going green, Cafe M will be your cup of tea. This coffee shop prides itself on its zero waste operations.
• Rocket Bean Roastery : Rocket Bean Roastery features amazing coffee blends from some of the best coffee growing spots from around the world.
• https://starscoffee.co/ Stars Coffee: This cute little spot is known for its minimalistic vibes and delicious baked goods that go perfectly with their house roasted coffee.

Visit Riga with Hekla

Since Latvia is such a small country, our tours that stop in Riga visit other countries, as well. We do this so that our guests get the most out of their holiday in Northern Europe.

Our three tours that make stops in Riga are the Baltic Highlights Light , Baltic Lifestyle and Baltic Impressions .

These wonderful tours will give you the perfect taste of Riga!

Explore Northern Europe

When you’re visiting Northern Europe, it would be a shame to limit yourself to one destination.

Over here a Hekla, we love all of Northern Europe. In our decades of traveling this beautiful corner of the earth, we’ve become familiar with many cities, countries and attractions.

Explore some of our travel guides where we give you the scoop on what to do and what not to do in coolest cities on earth. Grab a pen and paper because you’re about to read about some of Northern Europe’s best kept secrets and hidden gems.

• 50 Amazing Things to Do in Estonia
• Blue Lagoon: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• Top 10 Natural Hot Springs in Iceland
• 30 Best Things to Do in Norway on Holiday
• Northern Lights in Iceland

Where will your Northern European adventures take you?

Are You Ready for Riga?

Doesn’t Riga sound like a blast? This lowkey capital is perfect for those who want to take an enjoyable holiday.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or you’d like to bring the whole family, you can’t go wrong with Riga.

Book your flight and get planning. Your road leads to Riga!

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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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8 Latvian Dishes You Should Try in Riga

At the crossroads of Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, the Baltic state of Latvia has an intriguing culinary scene that's influenced by neighboring countries but also shaped by longtime traditions and native ingredients. Expect menus in Riga to feature hearty dumplings and smoked herring served alongside bowls of borscht. In addition to the traditional foods, you'll also find a growing number of contemporary restaurants.

Riga is home to Europe's biggest food market, housed in five former Zeppelin hangars. Latvian cuisine is one of the top reasons to visit this city, so you won't want to leave without trying the local specialties.

Pickles and Sauerkraut

At Riga's epic Central Market , you'll find the whole airship hangar lined with stalls selling fruit and vegetables and a vast selection of pickles. The stallholders let you help yourself to mounds of crunchy sauerkraut and you'll find all sorts of pickled items like carrots, tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, green beans, cauliflower, and cucumbers flavored with different herbs and spices. Sauerkraut is a Latvian staple and features in side dishes, dumplings, and soups. 

Rye Bread Pudding

A popular way to finish a meal in Latvia is by tucking into a pot of maizes zupa (rye bread pudding), a soupy dessert made from sweetened rye bread, apples, cinnamon, raisins, plums, cranberries, and whipped cream. The dark rye bread is dried out in the oven before being boiled which gives the pudding a thick, comforting texture.

This healthy and hearty national dish is typically served at Christmas as Latvians believe that eating peas brings luck and money, but you'll see them on menus throughout the year as well. They're served as a side dish or a bar snack and made from dried peas (similar to chickpeas) cooked with fried onions and fatty smoked bacon. Dig into a bowl at one of the city's Lido restaurants, a traditional Latvian chain known for cheap and wholesome, family-friendly dining.

Dark Rye Bread

It's said that the average Latvian consumes around 50 kilograms of rye bread per year. Tradition dictates that if the bread is accidentally dropped, it must be picked up immediately and kissed. Rupjmaize (dark rye bread) is a dense loaf that's served as an accompaniment to most meals alongside herb-flavored butter. Fried sticks of rye bread are often served as bar snacks to be enjoyed with a garlicky dip, too.

Black Balsam

Kerry Kubilius

It's not a dish, per se, but you can't leave Riga without knocking back a shot of Latvia's national spirit. Said to aid digestion, Black Balsam is a vodka-based liqueur made with a range of herbs including pepper, ginger, linden flower, raspberry, and bilberry. This legendary spirit was reputedly first brewed to cure Catherine the Great of a stomach illness when she spent time in Riga. Latvians still enjoy its health-giving properties today. It's both bitter and sweet and something of an acquired taste. For a more palatable introduction to this gutsy spirit, try it mixed in a cocktail.

This rich potato salad is made of several layers of meat or fish (typically herring), hard-boiled eggs, and vegetables, all held together with mayonnaise and sour cream. It's similar to a traditional 19th-century Russian Olivier salad but you'll find different variations served up across town. You might see ingredients like chopped apple, beetroot, spring onion, and dill make an appearance, too.

Pelmeni Dumplings

Although they might not have originated in Latvia, pelmeni are eaten throughout Riga and are definitely worth trying. A cross between Polish pierogi and Italian tortellini, these small dumplings are made with unleavened dough and filled with minced meat, vegetables, or cheese. They can be served in a broth or fried and always come with a dollop of sour cream. Head to Pelmenu Sturitis, a small family-run stall at the Central Market for a bowl of made-to-order dumplings for around €3. The Pelmeni XL restaurant chain serves pelmeni until 4 a.m. every Friday and Saturday for late-night snacking.

BURCU ATALAY TANKUT/Getty Images

Pork features heavily on Latvian menus and karbonade is one of the country's most popular dishes. Much like a schnitzel, the pork is pounded flat and then fried in breadcrumbs. It's typically served with a heap of creamy mushrooms on top and with some dill-seasoned potatoes on the side. 

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