2-Hours Old Town Walking Tour in Riga, Latvia
Exploring the Old Town in Riga can be one of the most thrilling experiences you can have in the beautiful Baltic City. The cities of the Baltic were once under the ownership of Germany, Sweden, and even the Soviet Union, but the beauty and culture of the city remain. A 2-hours walking tour of Old Town Riga will bring you ancient architecture, stunning churches, and culturally enriched curious squares.
Planning Your Tour
When arranging your walking tour of Old Town, it is important to note that Riga City center is quite big. So, when booking a guided tour, make sure to check to see if it is a full 2-hours, as some tours may opt to take a shortened version of the experience.
The best way to ensure you get a great tour of the Old Town is through a reputable tourist booking agency. Such agencies can be found online, with reviews and ratings that potential customers can peruse to find one that suits both their budget and their plans.
For example, Get Your Guide is one such agency which provides tours of the Riga Old Town. GetYourGuide provide a 2 hours walking tour for a reasonable fee of €18 ($21 USD) per person. The guides are professional and friendly, and the service also allows users to book easily and quickly online.
What You Will See in Your Tour
When doing a 2-hours tour, you should expect to see some historic highlights. Starting from the Town Hall Square, you can explore the 13th century guild before heading to the House of Blackheads, the Riga Cathedral and the Powder Tower. All these monuments offer stunning architecture and intricate carvings that represent Riga’s grand, yet troubled past.
On this tour, you will also find a visit to either St. John’s Church or St. Peter’s Church and also get to explore St Jacobīs street – one of the oldest streets in Riga and also see plenty of beautiful houses, palaces, churches and cathedrals that line the street. This tour is offered by GetYourGuide year-round and is available in both English and Latvian.
Personal Opinion
Personally, I find walking tours like this one a great way to get to know a city. They provide insight into what the city has to offer and allow tourists to actually feel like they are experienced a place, instead of being just another bystander. I highly recommend this guided tour to anyone looking for a quality exploration experience in Riga.
At €18 ($21 USD) per person, this two-hour tour is an incredibly cost-effective way to discover the beauty and rich culture of Old Town Riga. Your guide will be professional and friendly and will provide insights into the history of this beautiful city – something that cannot be found in books or by simply walking down the streets alone!
For an unforgettable experience in the heart of European culture, I highly recommend taking the 2-hours Old Town Walking Tour in Riga with GetYourGuide.
The guided tour includes:
- Town Hall Square
- House of Blackheads
- Riga Cathedral
- Powder Tower
- St Jacobīs street
- St. John’s Church or St. Peter’s Church
The Price: €18 ($ 21 USD).
Time: 2 Hours.
Book with:
Insider’s Guide to Exploring Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital city of Latvia, is a charming blend of old and new architecture, cultural experiences, and delicious food. This beautiful Baltic city is known for its cobblestoned streets, gothic architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Here is an insider’s guide to exploring Riga, Latvia in just 2 hours.
Old Town Walking Tour
Start your journey with a walking tour of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin at the House of the Blackheads, an architectural marvel built in the 14th century. Make your way to the Dome Cathedral, which is one of the oldest churches in the Baltics. Don’t forget to climb the tower for some breathtaking views of the city.
From there, wander through the streets of the Old Town, soaking in the charming atmosphere filled with colorful buildings and various architectural styles. Take a stroll along the canal and admire the beautiful bridges and statues along the way.
Cultural Experiences
If you have extra time, pay a visit to Latvian National Museum of Art, which houses a vast collection of paintings and sculptures by Latvian artists. Alternatively, check out the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, which showcases local and international productions throughout the year.
Culinary Delights
Both traditional Latvian cuisine and international cuisine are available in Riga. Traditional dishes include grey peas with bacon, smoked fish, and black rye bread with butter. You can find these dishes at restaurants like Lido and Rozengrāls, where you can also enjoy a medieval atmosphere. Alternatively, try international cuisine at places like Vincents and Bergs.
Off the Beaten Path
Escape the city and head to the nearby coastal town of Jūrmala, known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and quaint wooden houses. Take in the beauty of the Baltic Sea and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere. Another off-the-beaten-path option is the nearby Sigulda, where you can explore the stunning Gauja National Park, see medieval castles and enjoy hiking and skiing in the winter.
Local History
Riga has a rich and diverse history that is worth exploring. The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia showcases the history of the Soviet and Nazi occupations in Latvia. Alternatively, head to the Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum, which is located in the heart of the Old Town and explores the history of the Jewish community in Riga during World War II.
Conclusion
Riga, Latvia, has a lot to offer in just two hours. Whether you are interested in exploring the Old Town, sampling delicious cuisine, or experiencing Latvian culture and history, this charming city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Riga!
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