Riga

Latvia, Europe

Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historic Old Town with cobblestone streets and medieval structures. Visitors are drawn to its lively atmosphere, rich cultural scene, and bustling markets. Don’t miss the iconic Freedom Monument, the breathtaking views from St. Peter's Church, and the unique Central Market. With a blend of history, arts, and modernity, Riga is a captivating destination for young travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Tallinn

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Riga

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Old Town

Wander through charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the House of Blackheads

Admire this stunning Gothic building and its history.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb St. Peter's Church

Get panoramic views of Riga from the tower.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Jurmala Beach

Soak up the sun on Latvia's premier seaside beach.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Central Market

Taste local foods and shop at this vibrant market.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Art Nouveau District

Stroll through streets filled with ornate Art Nouveau architecture.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art

Explore a vast collection of Latvian art and exhibitions.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a River Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Daugava River.

No booking required
9

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Freedom Monument

Pay respects at this iconic symbol of Latvian independence.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Tour the KGB Museum

Learn about Latvia's Soviet past in this historical museum.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience Riga's nightlife

Enjoy vibrant bars and clubs in the city.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

Explore Latvia's cultural heritage in an outdoor setting.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Latvian National Opera

Attend a performance at this stunning opera house.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-1 (#58 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Latvian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pelēkie Zirņi Ar Speķi

Gray peas with bacon, a hearty dish. (National dish)

Rupjmaize

VE

Rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine.

Sklandrausis

V

Sweet rye pastry with carrot filling.

Piragi

Savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables.

Aukstā Zupa

VE

Cold beet soup, refreshing and colorful.

Phrases to learn

English

Latvian

Hello

Sveiki

(Sveh-kee)

Yes/No

Ja / Ne

(Yah / Neh)

Thank you

Paldies

(Pahl-dyehs)

Excuse me

Atvainojiet

(Aht-vai-noh-yeht)

How much?

Cik maksā?

(Tseek mak-sah)