Things to do in Riga

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St. Peter\'s Church featuring a city and landscape views
Old Town showing markets, street scenes and heritage architecture
Photo provided by Latvian Tourism / Leons Balodis
Photo provided by Latvian Tourism / nars Plinta
Photo provided by Latvian Tourism / Vita Balckare

Riga Attractions

As the capital of Latvia, Riga is the largest city in the Baltic states and home to roughly one-third of the nation's entire population. The city developed as an important trading center in the Middle Ages and has become renowned for its unique mix of architecture, which ranges from medieval wooden structures to stunning Art Nouveau buildings. You'll find traces of the city's centuries of history around every corner, and you can also absorb its vibrant modern culture as you stroll around the city center and stop at lively markets, pubs, restaurants, and museums. As you explore this still relatively undiscovered gem of Europe, there's no shortage of things to see and do.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Riga

Like many ancient European cities, Riga was constructed on the water. Its UNESCO-listed Historic Centre lies on the eastern side of the Daugava River and can be easily explored on foot. The Old Town and Art Nouveau District showcase Riga's most beautiful architecture, and the bustling Central Market offers a slice of the Latvian traditions still alive today.

Old Town

The Old Town is—not surprisingly—the oldest section of Riga, and portions of the medieval walls that once surrounded it remain. Its narrow cobblestone streets are dotted with architectural gems from different eras, the most grandiose of which are the Riga Cathedral and Riga Castle, both dating to the Middle Ages. Among the historic buildings, the area's open squares are filled with sidewalk cafes, beer gardens, and craft markets.

Art Nouveau District

Riga's Art Nouveau District sprang up in the early 20th century, when the city expanded rapidly and hundreds of structures were built in the ornamental Art Nouveau style. Stunningly detailed houses, mansions, and multistoried apartment buildings make up the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. The neighborhood is also home to the city's first public garden—Vermanes Garden—and the Riga Circus, one of the oldest circuses in Europe.

Central Market

The youngest UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city, the Central Market is no less impressive than the city's more ancient landmarks. Constructed using repurposed German Zeppelin hangars, this massive indoor bazaar represents the largest market in Europe. More than 3,000 stalls tempt shoppers with fresh produce, meat, herbs, seafood, Latvian delicacies, and traditional crafts.

Things to See in Riga

Riga contains a rich mix of original architecture, beautifully restored landmarks, and fascinating museums to uncover. In Old Town, admire the opulent facade of the House of the Blackheads, an impeccably crafted replica of the residence that housed the German merchants who dominated the city during the 14th century. Among the area's original medieval landmarks are the 13th-century St. Peter's Church and the Powder Tower, which stands as the sole remaining tower in Riga's defensive fortifications. Nearby, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia tells the story of the troubled, 51-year period in the country's history when it was successively occupied by Nazi Germany and the USSR. In the center of the city, the Freedom Monument, dedicated to the fallen soldiers in the Latvian War of Independence, rises to the sky as a symbol of national unity and freedom. For an eye-opening look at Latvia's cultural heritage, visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum on the shores of Jugla Lake. Here, a showcase of traditional homesteads and household items gathered from different regions paint a picture of rural life through the centuries.

Sightseeing in Riga

Round out your sightseeing with a variety of things to do in Riga. Treat your taste buds to a sumptuous multicourse dinner of authentic local dishes, or sip on Latvian liquors and beers on a guided pub crawl around Old Town. With a hop-on hop-off bus pass, you can enjoy convenient access to all the city's top landmarks and attractions, from the renowned Latvian National Opera to the Kalnciema Quarter, which is known for its beautifully restored wooden architecture and Saturday farmers' market. If you're eager to discover Latvia's treasures beyond Riga, choose from guided day trips to enchanting destinations in the surrounding countryside. To the northeast, Gauja National Park encompasses a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and crumbling castles. On the shores of the Baltic Sea, the resort town of Jurmala offers expansive white-sand beaches, charming shops, and elegant summer houses to discover.


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What to do in Riga

Free Things to Do in Riga

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Riga. The following won't cost a cent.

Occupation Museum - Take the entire family and set off on an adventure through history together.

Vansu Bridge - If you like modern-day design and architecture, add this attraction to your to-do list.

Powder Tower - If you're fascinated by bygone times, this is one attraction you ought not to miss.

Andrejosta - Stop for a while in this thriving destination and imagine life as a local resident.

Pilsetas kanals - There's something soothing about being around water, so be sure to spend a while here.

Riga Christmas Market - If you're eager to check out a few of the more important or unique places in the community, it's worth visiting this place.

St. Peter's Church - Take a moment for some prayer or meditation at this respected place of worship.

Bastion Hill - Organize a picnic and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the gorgeous plant life.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Riga

Like many ancient European cities, Riga was constructed on the water. Its UNESCO-listed Historic Centre lies on the eastern side of the Daugava River and can be easily explored on foot. The Old Town and Art Nouveau District showcase Riga's most beautiful architecture, and the bustling Central Market offers a slice of the Latvian traditions still alive today.

Old Town

The Old Town is—not surprisingly—the oldest section of Riga, and portions of the medieval walls that once surrounded it remain. Its narrow cobblestone streets are dotted with architectural gems from different eras, the most grandiose of which are the Riga Cathedral and Riga Castle, both dating to the Middle Ages. Among the historic buildings, the area's open squares are filled with sidewalk cafes, beer gardens, and craft markets.

Art Nouveau District

Riga's Art Nouveau District sprang up in the early 20th century, when the city expanded rapidly and hundreds of structures were built in the ornamental Art Nouveau style. Stunningly detailed houses, mansions, and multistoried apartment buildings make up the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. The neighborhood is also home to the city's first public garden—Vermanes Garden—and the Riga Circus, one of the oldest circuses in Europe.

Central Market

The youngest UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city, the Central Market is no less impressive than the city's more ancient landmarks. Constructed using repurposed German Zeppelin hangars, this massive indoor bazaar represents the largest market in Europe. More than 3,000 stalls tempt shoppers with fresh produce, meat, herbs, seafood, Latvian delicacies, and traditional crafts.

Things to See in Riga

Riga contains a rich mix of original architecture, beautifully restored landmarks, and fascinating museums to uncover. In Old Town, admire the opulent facade of the House of the Blackheads, an impeccably crafted replica of the residence that housed the German merchants who dominated the city during the 14th century. Among the area's original medieval landmarks are the 13th-century St. Peter's Church and the Powder Tower, which stands as the sole remaining tower in Riga's defensive fortifications. Nearby, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia tells the story of the troubled, 51-year period in the country's history when it was successively occupied by Nazi Germany and the USSR. In the center of the city, the Freedom Monument, dedicated to the fallen soldiers in the Latvian War of Independence, rises to the sky as a symbol of national unity and freedom. For an eye-opening look at Latvia's cultural heritage, visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum on the shores of Jugla Lake. Here, a showcase of traditional homesteads and household items gathered from different regions paint a picture of rural life through the centuries.

Sightseeing in Riga

Round out your sightseeing with a variety of things to do in Riga. Treat your taste buds to a sumptuous multicourse dinner of authentic local dishes, or sip on Latvian liquors and beers on a guided pub crawl around Old Town. With a hop-on hop-off bus pass, you can enjoy convenient access to all the city's top landmarks and attractions, from the renowned Latvian National Opera to the Kalnciema Quarter, which is known for its beautifully restored wooden architecture and Saturday farmers' market. If you're eager to discover Latvia's treasures beyond Riga, choose from guided day trips to enchanting destinations in the surrounding countryside. To the northeast, Gauja National Park encompasses a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and crumbling castles. On the shores of the Baltic Sea, the resort town of Jurmala offers expansive white-sand beaches, charming shops, and elegant summer houses to discover.

Things to Do in Riga with Kids

There are plenty of memorable experiences in Riga that the whole gang will love. Here are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences around.


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Riga

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Riga

Old Town showing heritage architecture and street scenes

Old Town Riga

4.5/5(158 area reviews)

Ancient churches, a presidential home and the remains of a medieval defensive wall make a stroll through the historical center of Riga a stimulating adventure.

Old Town Riga
Latvian Art Museum which includes a statue or sculpture

Centrs

4.5/5(91 area reviews)

Centrs is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Cathedral of Christ's Nativity and Galleria Riga Shopping Center while in the area.

Centrs
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Avoti

Visitors to Avoti appreciate its historic sites. A visit to Galleria Riga Shopping Center and Cathedral of Christ's Nativity might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.

Avoti
Low prospective of the railway bridge in Riga, capitol of Latvia. Shooted during the sunrise, the river was frozen and colours of the sky are reflecting on the snow

#riga
#latvia
#longexposure
#travelphotography

Zemgale Suburb

4/5(13 area reviews)

Unique features of Zemgale Suburb include the historic sites and river views. Make a stop by National Library of Latvia or SPICE while you're exploring the area.

Zemgale Suburb
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Agenskalns

4/5(12 area reviews)

Unique features of Agenskalns include the river views and historic sites. Make a stop by Golden Bowling Center or Uzvaras Park while you're exploring the area.

Agenskalns
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Skanste

Travelers like the shopping in Skanste, and Arena Riga is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Skanste

 

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Popular day trips from Riga

Frequently asked questions

Is Riga worth visiting?
Providing a blend of dining and culture, there are many things to do in Riga. When you're here, check out Jurmala Beach, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Riga?
Jurmala Beach and Riga Castle are two great places to start your vacation adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Riga while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Riga?
The top tourist attraction in Riga is Jurmala Beach, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Riga?
Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city sights, including Riga Cathedral, Riga Castle and Cathedral of Christ's Nativity. The average stay in Riga is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Jurmala isn't far away.
Is Riga a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Riga, such as Riga Cathedral and Riga Castle, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.1 miles from the city center of Riga is Old Town Riga and Centrs is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Riga with kids?
Planning what to do in Riga with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Riga for adults?
Arena Riga and Alberta Iela are just a couple of the things to do in Riga. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Riga?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Riga is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Riga Cathedral is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.