Riga is the vibrant Baltic capital known for its extraordinary collection of Art Nouveau architecture and a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town. It is best visited between May and September when the city’s parks are in bloom and the outdoor cafe culture is in full swing.
Top Things to Do in Riga
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Getting Around Riga
From the Airport
Bus. Bus route 22 runs frequently between Riga International Airport and the city center, taking about 30-40 minutes and costing approximately 1.50 EUR. Rideshare. The Bolt app is the most popular and reliable way to book a private car from the airport directly to your hotel.
Once You're There
Walking. The historic center and the Art Nouveau district are highly walkable, and most major sights are within a 20-minute walk of each other. Tram and Bus. Riga has an extensive network of trams and buses; use the 'E-talons' card or contactless payment for convenient travel. Rideshare. Bolt is the standard rideshare app used throughout the city for quick and affordable point-to-point travel.
Where to Stay in Riga
Hotel picks for Riga are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Riga
Mio★ 4.7 (1,504)Blaumaņa iela 15, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, LatviaA charming and intimate spot in the Art Nouveau district, perfect for enjoying creative European dishes in a boutique, art-filled setting.
Vincents★ 4.7 (347)Elizabetes iela 19, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, LatviaRenowned as the city's finest dining destination, it offers a sophisticated seasonal menu that frequently hosts international celebrities and dignitaries.
Barents★ 4.7 (317)Smilšu iela 3, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaSpecializing in the freshest cold-water seafood from the Baltic and North Seas, this is the premier choice for sophisticated fish dishes.
Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs★ 4.6 (9,616)Peldu iela 19, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaThis atmospheric underground tavern is the place to try traditional Latvian snacks like garlic bread and a wide selection of local craft beers.
Ala Bar★ 4.6 (9,616)Peldu iela 19, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaA lively spot that pairs hearty, affordable Latvian fare with nightly traditional music performances.
Biblioteka No. 1★ 4.6 (2,471)Mūkusalas iela 3, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1048, LatviaSet in a beautiful park-side location, this upscale restaurant is celebrated for its elegant presentation and refined wine pairings.
Restaurant 3★ 4.6 (1,381)Jēkaba kazarmas, Torņa iela 4, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaFocusing on Nordic-Baltic forest-to-table cuisine, this spot is famous for its innovative use of wild herbs and seasonal game.
Lido Atputas Centrs★ 4.5 (29,134)Krasta iela 76, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1019, LatviaThis massive wooden complex provides an accessible, high-volume buffet of classic Latvian comfort foods like potato pancakes and pork roast.
Rozengrāls★ 4.5 (5,154)Rozena iela 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaLocated in a medieval cellar, this restaurant recreates a 13th-century dining experience with candlelit tables and authentic historical recipes.
Valtera Restorāns★ 4.5 (1,270)Torņa iela 4-1a, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, LatviaThis cozy venue is dedicated to supporting local farmers, serving high-quality Latvian ingredients transformed into modern, soulful plates.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Riga
Medieval Heart of the Old Town
Morning. Start your journey in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Old Town at the iconic House of the Blackheads, admiring its intricate Dutch Renaissance facade. Wander just a few steps over to the nearby Riga Cathedral, the largest medieval church in the Baltics, to hear the massive pipe organ if you are lucky enough to catch a midday recital. Spend time exploring the narrow, winding cobblestone streets that radiate from the central square. Before heading further, climb the tower of St. Peter's Church for the most breathtaking panoramic view of the red-tiled roofs and the Daugava River. Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe to recharge before walking toward the historic Swedish Gate, the last remaining city gate of the old fortification wall.
Afternoon. After a morning of history, head over to the Three Brothers, a complex of three houses that represent the evolution of Riga’s domestic architecture from the 15th to the 17th century. Spend some time browsing the small boutiques tucked away in the surrounding alleys before making your way toward the Freedom Monument. This towering sculpture serves as a symbol of Latvia’s independence and is a constant site of respectful activity. Take a leisurely stroll through the adjacent Bastejkalna Park, where you can admire the beautifully landscaped canals and flower beds. It is the perfect place to sit on a bench and people-watch while soaking in the transition between the old city and the newer boulevards.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head back into the Old Town to find a cozy spot for dinner. The atmosphere in the narrow alleys changes as the lights come on, highlighting the medieval textures of the stone buildings. Make your way to a traditional tavern to sample local Latvian honey beer or a hearty plate of grey peas with bacon. After dinner, take a walk along the riverbanks to see the city lights reflecting off the water. It is a magical way to end your first day in this atmospheric Baltic capital.
Art Nouveau & Grand Boulevards
Morning. Today is dedicated to the world-famous Art Nouveau district, a must-see for any architecture enthusiast. Begin your walk on Alberta iela, where you will find the most spectacular concentration of ornate, decorative facades in the city. Many of these buildings were designed by Mikhail Eisenstein, and you should spend time looking for the iconic gargoyles, sphinxes, and floral motifs. Stop by the Riga Art Nouveau Centre to get a glimpse of what the interiors looked like in the early 20th century. Afterward, walk toward the nearby Latvian National Museum of Art to admire its grand neoclassical architecture and impressive collection of national masterpieces.
Afternoon. For lunch, enjoy a stylish meal in the Quiet Centre, which is filled with elegant embassies and upscale cafes. Afterward, head toward the Esplanade park to see the stunning Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral with its gold-plated domes. Spend the rest of the afternoon walking along the grand boulevards that encircle the city center, admiring the mix of 19th-century eclectic buildings. If you have time, visit the Vermane Garden, the city's oldest public park, to relax under the shade of mature trees. It is a quieter, more refined side of the city that contrasts beautifully with the dense medieval core.
Evening. Conclude your second day by experiencing the modern culinary scene in the city center. Choose a restaurant that focuses on modern Baltic ingredients, showcasing how Latvian chefs are redefining traditional flavors. After your meal, consider visiting a cocktail bar in the city center to see the more contemporary, nightlife-focused side of Riga. The city comes alive with a sophisticated energy that makes for a great night out. End the evening with a walk back through the illuminated streets, noticing the architectural details you might have missed during the day.
Market Life & Riverside Views
Morning. Start your final day at the Riga Central Market, one of the largest and most impressive markets in Europe, housed in massive former Zeppelin hangars. Spend the morning wandering through the various pavilions, each dedicated to different goods like fresh fish, dairy, meats, and local vegetables. It is a sensory overload in the best way possible, and a great place to pick up some local honey or rye bread as a souvenir. After exploring the market, walk toward the nearby Latvian Academy of Sciences building to see the 'Stalinist skyscraper' architecture. You can take the elevator to the observation deck for a unique vantage point of the city that most tourists miss.
Afternoon. For lunch, grab some fresh market produce or a quick bite at one of the market's small stalls. Afterward, head toward the riverfront and walk across the Akmens tilts bridge to get a great perspective of the Old Town skyline from the left bank. Explore the Agenskalns neighborhood, known for its charming wooden architecture and laid-back atmosphere. It feels like a completely different city compared to the bustling center. If you are feeling adventurous, visit the National Library of Latvia, a striking modern building known as the 'Castle of Light,' which offers great views back toward the Old Town.
Evening. Spend your final evening enjoying a high-end seafood dinner near the river to celebrate your trip. Reflect on the blend of medieval, Art Nouveau, and modern history you have encountered over the past three days. If you still have energy, find a riverside bar to enjoy a final drink while watching the sunset over the Daugava. It is the perfect, peaceful conclusion to your Riga adventure. Before you leave, make one last walk through the quiet streets to soak in the unique character of this Baltic gem.