Things to Do in Riga, Latvija

Riga, the captivating capital of Latvia, stands as one of Northern Europe's most enchanting cities, where medieval charm seamlessly blends with Art Nouveau elegance. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town (Vecrīga) boasts cobblestone streets lined with Gothic churches, merchant houses, and the iconic House of the Blackheads, while the city center showcases the world's finest collection of Art Nouveau architecture with over 800 buildings displaying intricate facades and ornate details. Beyond its architectural treasures, Riga pulses with vibrant cultural life, from world-class museums and galleries to bustling markets and a thriving nightlife scene. The Daugava River gracefully winds through the city, offering scenic waterfront promenades and connecting historic districts with modern developments. With its affordable prices, warm hospitality, and rich Baltic heritage, Riga provides an authentic European experience without the crowds of more touristy destinations.

Top Things to Do in Riga

Old Town Walking Tour

Explore Riga's UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town with its winding cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and historic landmarks including St. Peter's Church, Riga Cathedral, and the House of the Blackheads. The compact area is perfect for discovering hidden courtyards, medieval guild halls, and charming cafes tucked away in ancient buildings.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours operate daily year-round (tip-based, €5-10 suggested). Book private guided tours for €80-120 for 2-3 hours. Best times are morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture golden hour photography.

Art Nouveau Architecture Tour

Discover Riga's world-renowned Art Nouveau district, featuring the planet's highest concentration of these ornate early 20th-century buildings. Alberta Street and surrounding areas showcase masterpieces by Mikhail Eisenstein and other renowned architects, with elaborate facades, mythical creatures, and flowing organic forms.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours cost €3-5 with mobile apps, while guided tours run €15-25 per person. Visit the Art Nouveau Museum (€7 entry) for context. Best photographed in soft morning light between 9-11 AM.

Central Market Experience

Immerse yourself in Europe's largest market housed in five converted Zeppelin hangars, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sample local delicacies like smoked fish, rye bread, honey, and seasonal produce while experiencing authentic Latvian daily life and culture.

Booking Tip: Free to enter, budget €10-20 for tastings and small purchases. Food tours including the market cost €35-50. Visit Tuesday-Saturday mornings (8-11 AM) for the freshest selection and most active atmosphere.

Daugava River Cruise

Enjoy scenic views of Riga's skyline and historic waterfront from the Daugava River, passing medieval towers, modern bridges, and Soviet-era monuments. Evening cruises offer spectacular sunset views and illuminated Old Town reflections on the water.

Booking Tip: Standard 1-hour cruises cost €12-18, dinner cruises €35-55. Book online for 10-15% discounts. Best times are late afternoon for golden hour views or evening for romantic illuminated cityscape photography.

Day Trip to Jurmala Beach

Escape to the nearby Baltic Sea resort town of Jurmala, famous for its pristine white sand beaches, charming wooden architecture, and spa culture. The 33-kilometer coastline offers swimming, sunbathing, and peaceful forest walks just 25 minutes from Riga.

Booking Tip: Train tickets cost €2-4 each way, running every 30 minutes. Beach access is free, but budget €5-10 for resort fees in some areas. Visit May-September for swimming, year-round for architecture and nature walks.

Getting There

Riga International Airport (RIX) serves as the main gateway, located just 10 kilometers from the city center with direct flights from major European cities and seasonal connections to North America. The Airport Express bus (€2) runs every 20-30 minutes to the city center, while taxis cost €15-25. Alternatively, Riga is well-connected by bus and train to other Baltic capitals, with comfortable coaches from Tallinn (4.5 hours) and Vilnius (4 hours), plus ferry connections from Stockholm arriving at the nearby port.

Getting Around

Riga's compact city center is highly walkable, with most attractions within a 15-minute walk of each other. The efficient public transport system includes trams, buses, and trolleybuses operating from 5:30 AM to midnight, with single tickets costing €1.15 or day passes for €5. Taxis are affordable (€3-8 for most city trips) and ride-sharing apps like Bolt are widely available. Bicycle rentals (€10-15/day) offer a pleasant way to explore the city's flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Vecrīga)

City Center (Art Nouveau District)

Quiet Center

Torņakalns

Āgenskalns

Near Central Station

Food & Dining

Riga's culinary scene beautifully balances traditional Latvian cuisine with modern international flavors and innovative Nordic-inspired restaurants. Sample hearty local dishes like grey peas with bacon, smoked fish, and rye bread at traditional taverns, or explore the growing fine dining scene with restaurants earning international recognition. The Central Market offers the best introduction to local ingredients and street food, while the Old Town provides atmospheric dining in medieval cellars and courtyards. Don't miss trying Riga Black Balsam, the city's famous herbal liqueur, and locally brewed craft beers that have gained popularity throughout the Baltics.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Riga is from May to September when temperatures are mild (15-23°C), days are long, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summer brings the famous White Nights with nearly 19 hours of daylight, perfect for sightseeing and photography. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors, though weather can be unpredictable. Winter visits (December-February) provide a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and snow-covered medieval streets, but expect short days and temperatures around -5°C.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Riga Card (€25-35) for free public transport and museum discounts, but calculate if it's worthwhile based on your planned activities

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner (3-6 PM), so plan meal times accordingly or seek out cafes that stay open

Learn a few Latvian phrases - locals appreciate the effort and English isn't as widely spoken as in other Baltic capitals, especially among older generations

Things to Do in Riga