Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a charming and vibrant city that offers visitors a plethora of exciting things to see and do. From its stunning architecture to its rich cultural heritage, Riga has a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring the medieval Old Town, sampling delicious Latvian cuisine, or admiring the city’s beautiful art nouveau buildings, there’s something for everyone in Riga. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best attractions and things to do in Riga, so you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful city.

The 9 Best Things You Must Do In Riga

1. Riga 15 Hour Latvian Wine Tasting Experience
2. Riga 2 Hour Central Market Secrets Tour
3. Riga Half Day Jewish History Tour
4. Art Nouveau Walking Tour in Riga
5. Riga 1 Hour Sightseeing by Canal Boat
6. Private Tour of Riga
7. Riga Self Guided Mobile Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour
8. Riga Murder Mystery City Exploration Game
9. Riga Hop on Hop Off Tour

The 9 Best Things You Must Do In Riga

1. Riga 15 Hour Latvian Wine Tasting Experience

Explore the hidden gems of Latvian wines with this 15-hour wine-tasting experience in Riga. You’ll visit a medieval dungeon in the heart of Riga where local monks will reveal the secrets of Latvian wine production. Learn about the traditional wine production process in Latvia and discover the local products used in wine-making. In this tour, you’ll get to taste six authentic Latvian wines paired with local snacks. Get ready for an extraordinary experience that will excite your taste buds and leave you with a new appreciation for this unique beverage. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women.

2. Riga 2 Hour Central Market Secrets Tour

Discover the secrets of Riga Central Market with a 2-hour guided tour. Listen to interesting stories and legends from your professional guide while exploring the market’s historical attractions. Learn about the market’s rise to becoming the biggest market in Europe and its uses during the 20th century. Sample various Latvian foods, including salads, sandwiches, fresh juices, and more, as well as unexpected product combinations. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the market and explore interesting cellars and places around it. Your tour includes the expertise of a professional local guide and tasting fees for foods and drinks during the tour. Don’t miss out on this exciting excursion and explore the hidden treasures of Riga Central Market today!

3. Riga Half Day Jewish History Tour

Discover Riga’s rich Jewish heritage on this half-day tour of the city’s key landmarks. Your old town walking tour will take you to the Riga Synagogue, the only synagogue to survive the Nazi period and still in use today. Here you can learn about the fascinating history of how the Torah scrolls were saved. You’ll also visit the Great Choral Synagogue and the Rumbula Memorial. The tour takes you beyond the old town to the Maskavas suburb with its unique wooden houses, providing a glimpse into the history of the Jewish community here. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in exploring Riga’s Jewish history and heritage.

4. Art Nouveau Walking Tour in Riga

Discover some of Europe’s most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings on a guided walking tour through Riga’s elegant neighborhoods. Admire the city’s stunning architecture as you stroll through central Riga with an expert tour guide. Learn about Riga’s peak of economic prosperity in the late-19th century, a time when the Art Nouveau architectural style quickly became popular. Today, there are about 800 Art Nouveau buildings still standing in Riga. Walk down the city’s most ornate and impressive streets, the stunning Alberta and Elizabetes streets. Join this tour and explore the city’s architectural history in a new light.

5. Riga 1 Hour Sightseeing by Canal Boat

Climb aboard an eco-friendly canal boat to cruise along the Daugava River and see the different attractions of Riga’s historical center from a unique point of view. Departing from the pier by the Freedom Monument at the Triangula Bastion (Bastejkalns), you will sail along the river and under historic bridges, passing by popular sites like the Latvian National Opera and Riga Central Market.

Take a moment to appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage monuments in the Spīķeri Quarter before cruising towards the Riga Passenger Terminal and Yacht Club Andrejosta for some great views of the Vecrīga district (Old Riga). As you return back to the starting point, enjoy the stunning landscapes of Kronvalda Park and the Latvian countryside. With the flexibility to use your ticket at your convenience, you won’t miss out on an unforgettable and immersive 1-hour tour experience.

6. Private Tour of Riga

Explore the historic capital of Latvia on a private 2-hour walking tour of Riga, perfect for first-time visitors seeking a personalized sightseeing experience. Discover the 800-year-old history of the Old City Riga (Vecriga) and tick off top attractions such as St. Peter’s Church, Riga Dome Cathedral, and the Gunpowder Tower. Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, and choose from a morning or afternoon departure time. With a local guide and private tour, you’ll receive undivided attention throughout your journey. Admission fees, food, and drinks are not included, so make sure to confirm the start time and communicate any other details with the local provider in advance.

7. Riga Self Guided Mobile Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour

Get ready to discover the charming city of Riga in a fun and interactive way with a self-guided mobile scavenger hunt and walking tour. This tour allows you to explore the city at your own pace while solving riddles, interacting with its most important attractions, and uncovering interesting facts and legends. Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, groups, families, and children, this tour can also serve as an exciting team-building activity. With the mobile app and login credentials provided, you’ll have everything you need to embark on this adventure. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the tour while practicing social distancing, making it a safe and enjoyable experience. So, put on your walking shoes, grab your phone, and let the scavenger hunt begin! Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Entrance fees and transportation are not included.

8. Riga Murder Mystery City Exploration Game

Discover the inner city of Riga in a fun way with the Riga Murder Mystery City Exploration Game. Compete in teams of 2-6 participants as you solve riddles, clues, and crack the case to become the best detectives. Test your skills in solving murder mysteries while enjoying a fun day together. ClueBreak is a big outdoor event that takes place centrally in cities around the world, including Riga. Visit famous places like Raiņa piemineklis, The Freedom Monument, Rigas Doms, and other famous city center locations while searching for witnesses, finding clues, and testing your knowledge. One ticket is valid for up to six people, and you will receive an exclusive code and further information to log in to the app and start your adventure. With a map of marked places and witnesses, visit the designated witnesses and answer their questions to progress in the game. Get ready to uncover the mystery in the heart of Riga with the Murder Mystery City Exploration Game.

9. Riga Hop on Hop Off Tour

Explore the city of Riga at the hop-on and hop-off tour bus. Drive around the Old Town and the beautiful Art Nouveau District while enjoying the view from the double-decker bus. Go to the harbor and see the Riga Ferry Terminal, stop off at quaint restaurants and stores in the old city center, and see beautiful baroque buildings.

The tour starts at Town Hall Square and has 11 main stops and around 16 additional stops along the routes. In this package deal, two tours are included, allowing you to make the most of the hop-on-hop-off tour style within a 2 day period. The tour runs through three districts, starting with Pardaugava, an area which overlooks ancient cathedrals on the left bank of the river Daugava. Across the Stone Bridge you will see the majestic panorama of the Old City – the “City of the Golden Cockerels”. The bus then travels toward the city center where many of the city’s main attractions are located.

FAQs about Riga

Are you planning a trip to Riga? Or have you already booked your tickets, but still have some questions about the city? No worries, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will address some of the most frequent questions that tourists have about Riga.

1. When is the best time to visit Riga?

The best time to visit Riga is during the summer months from June to August, when you can enjoy the warm weather and many outdoor activities. However, if you don’t mind the cold, winter in Riga can be magical with its Christmas markets and snow-covered streets.

2. What is the currency in Riga?

The official currency in Riga is the Euro. There are plenty of ATMs and exchange offices throughout the city, so it’s easy to get cash whenever you need it.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Riga?

Some of the top must-visit attractions in Riga include the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Art Nouveau District, the Central Market, St. Peter’s Church, the National Museum of Art, and the Museum of Occupation.

4. How can I get around Riga?

Riga has a very convenient public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro line. You can purchase tickets at any newsstand or ticket machine. Alternatively, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber.

5. What are some traditional Latvian dishes I should try in Riga?

Latvian cuisine is not very well-known internationally, but there are some delicious dishes that you should definitely try during your visit. Some of these include:

• Rupjmaize: This is a traditional Latvian dark rye bread, which is often served with butter or cheese.
• Rasols: This is a cold salad made with boiled potatoes, carrots, pickles, and mayonnaise.
• Zupa: This is a Latvian-style soup, which usually includes meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
• Pīrāgi: These are small baked pastries filled with bacon, onions, or cottage cheese.

6. Is Riga safe?

Riga is generally a very safe city to visit. However, like any other big city, there are some areas that are safer than others. It’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.

7. What is the legal drinking age in Riga?

The legal drinking age in Riga is 18 years old. However, it’s worth noting that alcohol is widely available and it’s not uncommon for younger people to consume it.

8. Can I use my credit card in Riga?

Most restaurants, shops, and hotels in Riga accept credit cards, especially the major ones like Visa and Mastercard. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you as well, just in case.

9. What are some popular day trips from Riga?

If you have some extra time in Riga, there are plenty of day trips that you can take to explore the surrounding areas. Some popular options include the seaside town of Jūrmala, the medieval town of Cēsis, the Gauja National Park, and the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum.

10. What is the language spoken in Riga?

The official language spoken in Riga is Latvian. However, most people in the city also speak English, especially those who work in the hospitality industry. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Latvian phrases to show respect for the local culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Riga

Riga is the capital city of Latvia, known for its rich heritage, Art Nouveau architecture, and vibrant nightlife. If you are planning a trip to Riga, there are many things to see and do. In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary on how to spend your time as a tourist in Riga.

Day 1: Old Town, Art Nouveau, and the Central Market

1. Old Town

Begin your trip by exploring the Old Town of Riga, which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Old Town is located on the east side of the Daugava River and is the historic center of Riga, with many medieval buildings, churches, and squares. Don’t miss the following sights when exploring the Old Town:

• St. Peter’s Church – Climb to the top of the tower for a great view of the city.
• The House of the Blackheads – A beautiful Gothic-style building.
• The Three Brothers – A group of medieval houses.
• The Dome Cathedral – One of the oldest churches in Riga.

2. Art Nouveau

Riga is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, and many of the buildings in the city have this style. Take a walk along Albert Street, which is considered one of the best Art Nouveau streets in the world. Don’t miss the following sights:

• Art Nouveau Museum – Learn more about the Art Nouveau style and its history.
• The Riga Art Nouveau Center – Check out the Art Nouveau collection and exhibitions.

3. Central Market

Riga’s Central Market is considered to be one of the largest and most diverse markets in Europe. There are five pavilions, each with its own specialty, including food, clothing, and handicrafts. Don’t miss the following pavilions:

• Vegetable Pavilion – Fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Fish Pavilion – Fresh fish and seafood.
• Meat Pavilion – Local meats and sausages.

Day 2: Art Museums, Parks, and Nightlife

1. Art Museums

Riga has a rich history of art, and there are many art museums throughout the city. Don’t miss these two popular museums:

• National Museum of Art – One of the oldest and largest museums in the country, featuring Latvian and international art.
• Arsenāls – Contemporary art exhibitions and historical collections.

2. Parks

Riga is known for its beautiful parks, and there are many to choose from. Spend some time relaxing in the following parks:

• Bastejkalns Park – A beautiful park in the heart of the city, featuring a canal and gardens.
• Mezaparks – A large park with many walking paths and a lake.

3. Nightlife

Riga has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Don’t miss these popular establishments:

• Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs – An underground beer cellar with live music.
• Pulkvedim Neviens Neraksta – A popular bar with great cocktails.
• Studio 69 – A popular club with different music genres.

Day 3: Beach Day and Jurmala

1. Beach Day

Riga has several beaches on the outskirts of the city, including Vecaki Beach, which is the most popular. Spend some time relaxing on the beach and swimming in the Baltic Sea.

2. Jurmala

Jurmala is a popular resort town located 25 kilometers from Riga. Take the train from the Riga Central Station and spend the day exploring Jurmala’s beautiful beaches, cafes, and restaurants.

Day 4: Daugavpils Fortress and Latgale Region

1. Daugavpils Fortress

Daugavpils Fortress is a historic military fortress located in the Latgale region of Latvia, and it is considered to be one of the best preserved fortresses in Northern Europe. Spend some time exploring the fortress and learning about its history.

2. Latgale Region

Latgale is a region in eastern Latvia known for its beautiful countryside and traditional culture. Don’t miss these sights:

• Aglona Basilica – An important Catholic pilgrimage site.
• Lake Razna – A beautiful lake with many outdoor activities.

Book Your Tour Now

Riga has something for everyone, whether you enjoy history, architecture, art, nature, or nightlife. We hope this guide has provided you with a detailed itinerary for your trip to Riga. Remember to use this guide as a starting point for your own exploration and to discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city.