Riga is the capital of Latvia, a Baltic country in Northern Europe. The Daugava River splits the city in two, and much of what you’ll want to see is on the river’s eastern banks. Go to the Old Town and explore the medieval streets of this World Heritage Site. At its core is Ratslaukums, the Town Hall Square. The area’s twisting lanes lead to main city attractions, including the House of Blackheads and the Museum of the Occupation. At St. Peter’s Church, ride the elevator to the top of the tower for spectacular views of the city. Admire the baroque and Gothic buildings at Dome Square, where you can enjoy a meal or drink at outdoor cafés and bars. From Dome Square, it’s a short walk to Livu Square, which comes alive in summer as the host to a beer garden and live outdoor entertainment. In winter, kids will love the ice skating rink here. Continue to Bastejkalns Park, a tranquil green space with a canal running through it. It also has the Freedom Monument, which commemorates the soldiers that fought during the Latvian War of Independence. Music plays a key role in Riga’s arts scene. Don’t miss an opera or ballet performance at the Latvian National Opera. The RITMI Festival is an annual jazz festival, with previous performers including Bobby Darin and Robert Glasper. Riga’s cuisine is influenced by German, Polish and Russian flavors. Sample big plates of piragi, the East European dumpling, or pork, cabbage and potato-inspired dishes. At the Central Market you‘ll find cheap fruit and vegetables, and local delicacies such as smoked eel. The market opened in 1930 and takes place in converted Zeppelin aircraft hangars.The city is ideal for walking as the streets are flat. There is also a cheap public transport system, with trams, buses and trolleys stopping close to all the major sights.
Riga
Where to stay in Riga
Old Town Riga
Old Town Riga is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Cathedral Square or Riga Cathedral.
Centrs
Centrs is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Galleria Riga Shopping Center and Freedom Monument while in the area.
Latgale Suburb
Latgale Suburb is noteworthy for its churches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Riga Central Market and Latvian Academy of Sciences.
Zemgale Suburb
Unique features of Zemgale Suburb include the historic sites and river views. Make a stop by Golden Bowling Center or SPICE while you're exploring the area.
Maskavas Forstate
Historic sites, bars, and shopping highlight some of the noteworthy features of Maskavas Forstate. Make a stop by Riga Central Market or Latvian Academy of Sciences while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Avoti
Visitors to Avoti appreciate its historic sites. A visit to Galleria Riga Shopping Center and Origo Shopping Centre might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.
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Reviewed on May 31, 2023
Popular places to visit
Riga Central Market
See why this huge market is affectionately known as Riga's belly when you browse hundreds of stalls for fresh produce and Latvian specialties.
House of the Blackheads
Learn about the local history of Riga with a stop at House of the Blackheads. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.
St. Peter's Church
Riga's tallest church is dedicated to the city’s patron saint and is where you can see new artworks, watch a concert and enjoy great views of the Latvian capital.
Riga Cathedral
Learn about the local history of Riga when you take a trip to Riga Cathedral. Discover the acclaimed art scene and shops in this culturally rich area.
Three Brothers
You can learn about the history of Riga with a visit to Three Brothers. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.
Freedom Monument
This large historic monument near Riga’s Old Town is a national shrine of great importance where public ceremonies are held.
Things to do
Riga: 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Grand Bus Tour
Taste Riga - Private Tour of Latvian Flavour
Riga Self-Guided Audio Tour
Guided Riga Main Sight Tour on a BMW ///M5
2 Hours Walking Tour in Legends and Secret of Riga's Old Town
The tour of Riga - one step outside the Old Town
Reviews of Riga
4/5 - Good
Old town is an interesting place to see museums, churches, shops, cobble streets etc.
4/5 - Good
Cheap city to visit. It still retains some of its old medievil charm as well as some soviet feel. The food market near the city is HUGE. I want to come back and stay a few months when i retire.
5/5 - Excellent
Go to Uncle Vanyas for dinner.Everything was within walking distance.Christmas Market as well as the general market,were great to visit.So much to see and a week is not enough.We loved Latvia.Europes best kept secret!
5/5 - Excellent
Fabulous old town; definitely a gem of Europe.
5/5 - Excellent
Friendly, but during weekends there are a lot of people from Russia. All were friendly.
5/5 - Excellent
This is my second trip to Riga this year and I love Latvia & her people. The city is lovely, great food, lovely parks, opera, museums and spas.
Other places like Riga
- Riga Central Market
- House of the Blackheads
- Riga Castle
- St. Peter's Church
- Riga Cathedral
- Latvian National Opera
- Riga Christmas Market
- Three Brothers
- University of Latvia Botanical Garden
- Freedom Monument
- Galleria Riga Shopping Center
- Riga Zoo
- Arena Riga
- Town Hall
- Origo Shopping Centre
- SPICE
- Golden Bowling Center
- National Library of Latvia
- St John's Church
- Latvian Art Museum
- Mezapark
- Cathedral Square
- Latvian Academy of Sciences
- Powder Tower
- Great Guild Hall
- Riga Plaza Shopping Center
- Alberta Iela
- Latvian National Theatre
- Domina Shopping Center
- Skonto Stadium