Top 10 Things to See and Do in Riga

Last updated on March 5th, 2024

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Riga, Latvia

House of Black Heads, Riga Old Town by Makalu @ Pixabay

House of Black Heads by Makalu @ Pixabay

Here are the top 10 things to see and do in Riga, Latvia:

1. Old Town (Vecrīga): Explore the charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture of Riga’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include the iconic Riga Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church and the House of the Black Heads at Town Hall Square. The House of the Black Heads was flattened in WWII bombing and was recreated in 1996.

2. Art Nouveau District: Wander through the Art Nouveau district, particularly Alberta Street and 10a & 10b on Elizabetes Street. Admire the ornate facades and intricate details of the city’s Art Nouveau buildings.

3. Central Market (Centrāltirgus): Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Riga’s Central Market, which is one of the largest and most vibrant marketplaces in Europe. Browse stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

4. Freedom Monument: Pay homage to Latvia’s independence at the Freedom Monument, a striking memorial located in the heart of the city. The monument symbolizes the country’s struggle for freedom.

5. Riga Castle: Visit Riga Castle, the official residence of the President of Latvia. Explore the castle’s museum and admire its architectural grandeur.

Riga Canal Cruise, snichiporenko @ Pixabay

6. Latvian National Museum of Art: Delve into Latvia’s artistic heritage at the Latvian National Museum of Art. See its extensive collection of Latvian and international artwork.

7. Riga Central Market Food Tour: Take a guided food tour of Riga Central Market. Sample traditional Latvian cuisine, including smoked fish, rye bread, cheeses, and locally produced honey and berries.

8. St. Peter’s Church Tower: Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church Tower for panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond.

9. Riga Art Space: Experience contemporary art and cultural exhibitions by local and international artists at Riga Art Space.

10. Boat Cruise on the Daugava River: Take a scenic boat cruise along the Daugava River. Board the boat at the pier next to the Freedom Monument. Enjoy picturesque views while relaxing on the river.

From historic landmarks and architectural marvels to vibrant markets and cultural experiences, Riga offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that showcase the city’s rich heritage and modern vitality.

More Things to See and Do in Riga

In the Old Town: Three Brothers, Swedish Gate, Small & Great Guild Halls, Cat House on Meistaruiela at Zirgu iela, Jacob’s Barracks & Powder House, Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation, Town Musicians of Bremen Statue.

Near the Old Town: Latvian National Opera and Ballet, Museum of the Occupation, Nativity of Christ Cathedral, Bastejkalna Park, Vermanes Garden, Art Nouveau Center Museum, National Library, Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum, Riga Great Choral Synagogue Holocaust Monument, Synagogue Peitav Shul. Holy Trinity Church with its beautiful Russian Orthodox spires is a 7 minute cab ride across the river from the Old Town.

Near to Riga: Riga Motor Museum, Ethnographic Open Air Museum, Jurmala Beach

Buy: Riga Black Balsam Liqueur

Visit Latvia – Riga

Riga Old Town, rainhard2 @ Pixabay

Riga, the capital city of Latvia, captivates visitors with its timeless charm, rich history, and dynamic cultural scene. Situated on the banks of the Daugava River, Riga is renowned for its stunning architecture, particularly its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, cobblestone streets wind past centuries-old buildings adorned with intricate facades and spires, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Beyond its historic core, Riga boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with bustling markets, lively cafes, and art galleries showcasing the works of local talents. Visitors can delve into the city’s past at museums like the Latvian National Museum of Art and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, or experience the pulsating nightlife in the trendy neighborhood of Miera iela. With its blend of old-world elegance and modern vitality, Riga offers a captivating glimpse into Latvia’s cultural heritage and contemporary identity.

Best Time to Visit Latvia

The summer months of June, July and August are the best time to visit Latvia, because it is located so far north.

Getting to Old Town Riga, Latvia

By Cruise Ship: Cruise ships dock on the Daugava River right at the Old Town. Just walk off and you are there!

By Air: Catch a cab or bus #22 from Riga International Airport to the Old Town. The #22 bus takes credit cards. The bus takes about 45 minutes and only costs a few Euros.

By Train: Riga Central Station is located right adjacent to the Old Town.

Riga Public Transit

Buy inexpensive transit tickets at Riga Transport offices, public ticket machines, Narvesen stores and Rimi supermarkets. Sorry, no tap credit cards yet.

Latvia Currency

Latvia uses the Euro for its currency, which simplifies money matters.

Latvia – Visa Requirements

Latvia participates in the Schengen Zone and Schengen Visa requirements. There are no border inspections by rail, vehicle or ferry when traveling from Latvia to Estonia, Lithuania, Finland or Sweden.

Some countries that are not members of the Schengen Zone require a Schengen Visa to enter Europe. Exemptions include citizens of Australia, Canada, Mexico, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. Check your specific country at VisaHQ. For a list of exempt countries, visit Project Visa.

Visit Latvia – Electrical Adapters

The Europlug Type C electrical adapter is what you will need to keep your phones and cameras charged when you Visit Latvia. Your electrical adapter for Latvia. will work in most European countries.

Visit Latvia – Background

Located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, Latvia is a country known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant urban centers. Latvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, and Belarus to the southeast. The country of Latvia boasts a diverse geography that includes dense forests, pristine beaches along the Baltic Sea coastline, and picturesque lakes and rivers. The country’s capital city, Riga, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval Old Town. Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and impressive Gothic architecture. Beyond Riga, Latvia offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from hiking and cycling in the Gauja National Park to exploring the charming coastal towns of Jurmala and Liepaja.

Latvia’s cultural scene is as diverse as its landscapes, with a rich tapestry of traditions, festivals, and artistic expression. The country has a long history shaped by various influences, including German, Swedish, Russian, and Soviet occupations. These influences have left their mark on its culture, cuisine, and architecture. Visitors to Latvia can immerse themselves in the vibrant folk traditions of the countryside. You can sample delicious Latvian cuisine featuring hearty dishes like rye bread, smoked fish, and potato pancakes. Visitors can also attend cultural events such as the Song and Dance Celebration, a UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage event. The Song and Dance Celebration showcases Latvia’s traditional music, dance, and craftsmanship. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance, Latvia offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers seeking to explore the hidden gem of the Baltic region.