Things to Do in Riga
Plan your days in Riga, your way
Riga suits the traveller who wants a bit of everything without needing a thesis.
One morning in the old town covers the famous spires, the Blackheads' house, and a coffee in a medieval square.
An hour on Alberta iela shows you the Art Nouveau streets everyone mentions, no expertise required.
Central Market is half sightseeing, half lunch — wander the hangars, eat whatever looks busy.
The canal parks offer a slow afternoon walk that requires nothing but mild curiosity.
Cross the river for the wide view back at the skyline, the one that finally makes the map click.
Try grey peas or a pork cutlet at a tavern with a translated menu and no performance about it.
If there's energy left, Miera iela's bars do a relaxed evening among locals.
Nothing is extreme, nothing is far, and nothing costs much.
Riga is the rare city where a casual plan turns out exactly right.
Top attractions and places to eat in Riga
Vecrīga
Charming maze of narrow, crooked cobblestone streets with a mixture of Nordic, Gothic, Renaissance, baroque and Jugendstil architecture.
neighborhood · 4.6 rating
St. Peter's Church
A historic medieval Lutheran church in Riga's Old Town, famous for its tall spire and observation platform offering panoramic city views. Travelers visit for the architecture and the elevated vistas.
church · 4.4 rating · €9
House of the Black Heads
An ornate reconstructed Gothic guildhall in Riga's Old Town, one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Travelers visit for its striking facade and historic interiors.
attraction · 4.4 rating
Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
A museum documenting Latvia's occupations under Soviet and Nazi regimes during the 20th century. A significant stop for travelers seeking to understand the country's modern history.
attraction · 4.2 rating · €8
Musee Art Nouveau
Museum showcasing Art Nouveau interior design with an ornate spiral staircase.
museum · 4.4 rating
The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia
A large open-air museum on the shores of Lake Jugla displaying historic Latvian farmsteads, churches, and buildings across a forested park. Travelers explore traditional rural architecture and folk culture.
attraction · 4.4 rating
Nativity of Christ Cathedral
Russian Orthodox church built around 1876, notable for its golden domes.
church · 4.5 rating
Riga Motormuseum
Largest and most diverse vintage motor vehicle collection in the Baltics.
museum · 4.7 rating · €12
Andante | Vinyl Bar Riga
A vinyl-focused bar in Riga playing records in an intimate, music-oriented setting. A choice for travelers who enjoy drinks paired with curated music.
bar
Arts center NOASS
A floating art center on a pontoon on the Daugava River in Riga, hosting exhibitions, film, and cultural events. A distinctive venue for travelers interested in alternative art and river views.
attraction
Andalūzijas Suns
A bohemian bar and cafe in central Riga with a relaxed, artsy atmosphere. A popular casual spot for drinks and light meals.
cafe
Aussie Backpackers Pub
A backpacker-oriented pub in Riga with a casual, social atmosphere popular among travelers. A gathering point for budget travelers and nightlife.
bar
B Bārs Restorāns
A bar and restaurant in Riga offering meals and drinks in a relaxed setting. A choice for casual dining and evening drinks.
bar
Bārs Revolution
A lively bar in Riga popular for cocktails and nightlife. Travelers come for an energetic evening out.
bar
427 gallery
A contemporary art gallery in Riga showcasing rotating exhibitions of modern and experimental work. Appeals to travelers interested in the local art scene.
gallery