Riga, the capital city of Latvia, is known for its historic landmarks, cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. With its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere, Riga is a fantastic destination for those who love to explore the city after the sun goes down. And what better way to experience the city’s nightlife than by joining a pub crawl? From traditional Latvian pubs to trendy cocktail bars, Riga has a lot to offer for those looking for a memorable pub crawl experience. In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the best pub crawls in Riga that you should check out during your next visit to the city.
Table of Contents
The 3 Best Pub Crawls in Riga
- Pub Crawl in Riga
- Pub Crawl- Your best night out in Riga with our local guide!
- Riga Public Pub Crawl
The 3 Best Pub Crawls in Riga
1. Pub Crawl in Riga
Get to know Riga through its nightlife and meet new people at the same time with this popular pub crawl that visits three different bars and a dance club in the center of Riga. You’ll enjoy a beer or a shot at each venue, and the reasonably priced drinks deals will make your money go further. The carefully selected range of bars with karaoke and live music will introduce you to lively and friendly places in Riga that you’ll want to revisit. The meeting point is an easy-to-find locale in the old town, and the tour lasts for approximately three and a half hours. Just note that there is a chance of cancellation if less than four people are booked. Join this fun night out for anyone new in town who wants to visit the places where locals like to go. Alcoholic beverages and snacks are included in the tour.
2. Pub Crawl- Your best night out in Riga with our local guide!
If you’re looking for a wild night out in Riga, then this pub crawl is for you! This private tour will take you to three of the best local bars/pubs in town as well as a cool nightclub. You’ll get free entry into the club and four welcome shots to start the night off right. Along the way, you’ll see two more great spots that the locals love.
The meeting point is at St. Peter’s Church in Old Town at 9:00 PM. From there, your local guide will lead you to the best party spots in the city. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Please note that confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time or make changes within 24 hours, you will not receive a refund.
Get ready for an unforgettable night out in Riga with this fun and exciting pub crawl!
3. Riga Public Pub Crawl
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Riga with a 3-hour Public Pub Crawl tour. An English-speaking guide will lead you to the best bars in town where you can enjoy a drink and meet new people. The tour includes a welcome drink and can either start from a meeting point or with a pickup from your hotel. The tour operates from Monday to Sunday with opening hours from 12 PM to 7 PM. The activity ends back at the meeting point. This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers and is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation will be received upon booking. This tour can accommodate up to 15 travelers. Please note that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. Join us for an exciting night out in Riga’s pub scene!
Visiting Riga, Latvia: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a trip to Riga, Latvia, you likely have some questions about what to do and see in the city. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
1. What is the best time to visit Riga?
Riga is a beautiful city year-round, but the best time to visit may depend on what you’re interested in. Summer is a popular time for tourists, as the weather is warm and many outdoor events are taking place. If you prefer cooler weather, travel in the spring or fall. Winter can be magical in Riga, with Christmas markets and other seasonal events. However, it can also be very cold and snowy.
2. What are the must-see attractions in Riga?
Riga has many wonderful sights to see, including:
- The Old Town, with its winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and historic monuments like St. Peter’s Church and the House of the Blackheads.
- The Art Nouveau district, with its stunning architecture and ornate facades.
- The Central Market, housed in restored zeppelin hangars and offering a wide variety of local food and products.
- The National Museum of Art, featuring Latvian and international artworks from the 18th century to the present day.
- The Latvia Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, showcasing rural life and architecture from different regions of Latvia.
- The Freedom Monument, a symbol of Latvia’s independence and a popular meeting place.
3. What is the best way to get around Riga?
Riga has a convenient and affordable public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trolleybuses. You can purchase tickets from vending machines, kiosks, or directly from the driver. There are also taxi services available, although they can be more expensive. Walking or cycling is a great way to explore the city center.
4. What are some traditional Latvian dishes to try?
Latvian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, featuring locally sourced ingredients like dairy, mushrooms, and berries. Some popular dishes to try are:
- Grey peas with bacon, a traditional Latvian comfort food made with dried peas and bacon.
- Smoked fish, such as herring or whitefish, served with potatoes and sour cream.
- Latvian sausage, a smoked sausage made from beef, pork, and bacon.
- Sour cabbage soup, a savory soup made with sauerkraut, potatoes, and meat.
- Latvian rye bread, a hearty and flavorful bread made with rye flour.
5. What is the local language and do people speak English?
The official language of Latvia is Latvian, a Baltic language related to Lithuanian. However, many people in Riga also speak Russian and English. In tourist areas and hotels, English is commonly spoken and you should be able to get by without knowing any Latvian.
6. What are some tips for staying safe in Riga?
Like any big city, Riga has its share of pickpockets and scams. Here are some tips for staying safe:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and markets.
- Avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry, cameras, or phones.
- Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
- Only use licensed taxis and agree on the price beforehand.
7. What souvenirs should I buy in Riga?
Riga offers a range of unique and traditional souvenirs. Some ideas include:
- Amber jewelry, made from the fossilized resin of ancient trees and found along the Baltic coast.
- Latvian honey, made from locally sourced flowers and prized for its quality and taste.
- Handmade woolens, such as mittens, scarves, or socks, featuring traditional Latvian patterns and motifs.
- Riga Black Balsam, a herbal liqueur distilled from more than 20 different plants and popular for its medicinal properties.
- Wooden toys or crafts, showcasing the rich history of Latvian woodworking and craftsmanship.
Whether you’re visiting Riga for the first time or returning for another visit, there is plenty to see and do in this vibrant city. With these tips and answers to your most frequently asked questions, you’ll be well-prepared to explore all that Riga has to offer.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Riga
Riga is the capital city of Latvia and is full of rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural events. As a tourist, it can be overwhelming to decide which activities to do and sights to see. To ensure you have an unforgettable time in Riga, we have put together a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Riga.
1. Visit the Old Town
The Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of beautiful art nouveau buildings, historic churches, and quaint streets. Start your exploration at the Town Hall Square and make your way down the cobblestone streets. Be sure to see the famous Three Brothers houses, which are the oldest medieval dwellings in Riga that date back to the 15th century. Take a walk along the Daugava River and admire the views of the city skyline. The Old Town is also home to many shops and restaurants that offer traditional Latvian cuisine.
2. Tour the Art Nouveau District
Riga is famous for its art nouveau architecture, and the Art Nouveau district is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. The district is located in the central part of Riga and features elaborate facades with intricate decorations, sculptures, and geometric shapes. The most famous example is the building on Alberta Street named after its architect Mikhail Eisenstein. The Art Nouveau Museum is also located in this district, offering visitors the chance to learn about the history and design of this unique architectural style.
3. Check out the Central Market
The Central Market is one of the largest open-air markets in Europe and is a great place to experience the local way of life. It’s located in the heart of Riga and consists of five pavilions that sell fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and fish. It’s also the perfect spot to try Latvian street food like smoked sprats, rye bread, and sausage.
4. Visit the Riga Castle
The Riga Castle is located on the banks of the river Daugava and is the official residence of the Latvian president. Its historical significance dates back to the 14th century, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout the centuries. The castle offers guided tours, providing visitors with a glimpse into the nation’s past.
5. Take a Relaxing Stroll in the City Park
The City Park offers a peaceful getaway from the busy streets of Riga, located on the edge of the city’s center. The park is home to the famous Freedom Monument, which is the symbol of Latvia’s independence. Visitors can also enjoy walking through the many flower gardens, art installations, and fountains. In the winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating on the pond, while in the summer, paddleboats are available.
6. Attend a Cultural Event
Riga hosts many cultural events throughout the year, such as music festivals, theater performances, and art exhibitions. One of the biggest events is the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, which takes place every five years and involves thousands of locals singing and dancing in traditional Latvian costumes. Other notable events include the Riga Opera Festival, Jazz Festival, and the Christmas Market.
7. Eat Latvian Cuisine
Latvian cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and influenced by neighboring countries like Russia, Germany, and Scandinavia. Some of the must-try dishes include ‘risotto’ with mushrooms, sourdough bread with smoked fish, and ‘piragi’ which is a traditional Latvian pastry filled with bacon and onions. Many restaurants in Riga serve traditional Latvian cuisine, such as Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs, Lido, and Milda.
8. Explore the Riga Art Museum
The Riga Art Museum is home to an impressive collection of Latvian art, including paintings, sculptures, and prints from the 18th century to the present day. The museum also has an extensive collection of international art and regular temporary exhibitions. The building itself is a beautiful 1905 art nouveau masterpiece and is located in the center of Riga.
9. Take a Day Trip to Jurmala
Jurmala is a beautiful seaside resort located just 25 km away from Riga, offering visitors pristine beaches, fresh air, and a unique atmosphere. The town is famous for its wooden architecture, which dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, take a walk along the boardwalk, and sample local seafood in one of the many restaurants.
10. Experience Riga’s Nightlife
Riga is known for its vibrant nightlife, offering visitors an array of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The most popular areas for nightlife are the Old Town, the Art Nouveau district, and the Kalnciema Quarter. If you want to experience Latvian music, head to places like Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs or Piens clubs, while for live music you can visit the Palladium concert hall.In conclusion, Riga has a lot to offer tourists, from a beautiful Old Town and unique architecture to cultural events and vibrant nightlife. By following this guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Latvian capital. Don’t forget to explore outside of the city center, try some traditional Latvian food, and attend at least one cultural event.
