2025 Riga Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

The colorful, fairy-tale-like buildings kept my camera busy 📸💛 Right next to the old town is a forest of modern skyscrapers 🏙️ → The contrasting charm is truly fascinating! At the center stands St. Peter’s Church ⛪. You can climb the spire for a panoramic view of the city 🏙️, but I found strolling through the alleys and seeing things up close even more beautiful 🌸. The House of the Blackheads ⚜️ is Riga's landmark! This Gothic-style building, with 700 years of history, was destroyed by the Soviets and restored in 2000. Its sharp, striking presence in real life is truly impressive 👀. Every alley features local markets 🛍️, picturesque restaurant facades 🍷, and even the Bremen Town Musicians statue 🐴🐱🐓🐶 — every little detail adds to Riga's unique charm. Thanks to the superstition that touching their noses brings good luck, the animals' noses are shiny from all the rubbing 😂✨. As you walk around 🎨, you'll find picture-perfect window frames, 🏠 the Three Brothers buildings showcasing different architectural styles, and casually placed installations — each spot is a photo zone 📷.

#northerneurope Riga is the capital of Latvia and can be best accessed through the main international airport. It has a great charm and one of the best things is the architecture of the buildings which is an attraction. The Art Nouveau part of the city is where most of the buildings are and they are free to view 24 hours a day. There are many parks within the city that separate the old and new parts and there are multiple restaurants, bars and cafes on most streets. Some attractions to visit include the old town to look for monuments such as the cats proposing to one another or the two cats on the roof. There are also multiple churches and the opportunity to go up to the top of one cathedral. Hotel options in the city include hostels and range to five star hotels and there are many different types of restaurants that are open from around 9am until midnight. The ambiance in the city is very sleek and modern

#favouriteitinerary Riga the capital of Latvia, is a gateway to the Baltics. Once you visit Riga don't forget to walk to the old town as Riga's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions must be on the list: 1. Monument 1905 The Fighters✅ 2. View of Railway Bridge River✅ 3. House of Blackheads✅ 4. Dome Square ✅ 5. Livu Laukums ✅ 6. Freedom Monument ✅ 7. Riga castle ✅ 8. Riga central Market ✅ 9. Riga Sign ✅

#2024mapped Riga, not exactly a populous city, yet houses quite a few Michelin-guide restaurants. Riviera is among the recommended. 📍Address:Dzirnavu iela 31, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia 🕰️Business Hours: 12pm-11pm 💰Damage: €25 (€20 without drink) 💞Reasons to Recommend: No matter what one ordered, it is first served with two kinds of bread, one being typical focaccia and the other being rye bread. I particularly enjoyed the green and black olives on the side, which was packed with umami. Then I was presented another complimentary appetizer, which consisted of Gorgonzola cheese, crisps, crumbles and berries. This type of savory-sweet combination and textural variation are creative and interesting. Next was the seafood risotto I ordered. I have to say the prawn bisque was the most intense I’ve ever tried. The seafood portion was generous too that almost every bite was accompanied by some pieces of seafood. That said, I personally might prefer lesser cheese sprinkled on top to have more of seafood flavor in the spotlight. The only complaint I have is the 100% varlhona chocolate, which was too dilute. It costed €5; without it, the whole meal would have costed only €19.45!! And I was told we are allowed to only order a main course. I went for lunch without a reservation but was seated right away. But according to the internet, a reservation is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. It is a place I’d definitely revisit and recommend to people who visit Riviera.

Visiting the House of the Black Heads in Riga was an unforgettable experience, as this is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular buildings I’ve ever seen. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this architectural gem boasts an ornate façade adorned with intricate decorations, showcasing its grandeur and historical significance. Originally built in the 14th century as a guild house for the Brotherhood of Black Heads, it stands as a symbol of Riga's rich past and resilience, having been beautifully restored after World War II. Stepping inside, I was amazed by the lavish interiors, with grand halls, elegant chandeliers, and fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the building and its role in Riga’s history. What made the visit even better was the surprisingly affordable entrance ticket, offering incredible value for such an enriching experience. For anyone visiting Riga, this is truly a must-see attraction that leaves a lasting impression.

#cityscape #100waysoftravel #latvia #riga #stpeter On a hot summer afternoon, I visited the St. Peter's Church viewing platform to enjoy the 360-degree panoramic cityscape of Riga. Though it’s not free—adults pay 9 euros—the experience is worth every cent, offering the best view of the city. From the North-West side, the colorful, boxy buildings seem to be scattered haphazardly along the river Daugava, creating a unique urban landscape. Looking South, Riga Central Market and the TV tower dominate the skyline, while to the East, the Freedom Monument and the striking Nativity Cathedral come into view, showcasing the city’s blend of history and modernity from every angle.

Riga, an ancient city on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, is the heart and soul of Latvia🏙️💖. As an important member of the Hanseatic League, Riga not only carries a rich historical and cultural heritage, but also attracts tourists from all over the world to explore with its unique architectural style and strong artistic atmosphere. Walking on the streets of Riga, it seems to travel back to medieval Europe. In the old town (Vecrīga) paved with cobblestones, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau-style buildings are scattered, and each building tells its own story🏰🎨. The towering church spires point to the sky, and the colorful houses shine in the sun, making people involuntarily slow down and taste this historical precipitation and beauty. Speaking of Riga, it is necessary to mention its famous canal system. The Riga Canal is like a silver ribbon, passing through the city, closely connecting the old city and the new city. Taking a cruise on the canal, the picturesque scenery on both sides unfolds, ancient buildings, busy docks, and leisurely citizens, forming a vivid city scroll🛥️🖼️. In addition to history and culture, Riga is also a vibrant modern city. In the new city, modern high-rise buildings rise from the ground, shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, etc. are available, providing tourists with a wealth of shopping and entertainment options🛍️☕️. Riga's artistic atmosphere is also very strong, from street graffiti to art gallery exhibitions, from concerts to drama performances, every corner exudes the charm of art🎵🎭. In addition, Riga is a paradise for food. There are traditional Latvian dishes such as stewed meat and sauerkraut, as well as gourmet dishes from all over the world. In Riga's restaurant, you can taste authentic European flavors, and you can also try some novel and unique creative dishes🍲🍴. Riga is a charming city. It has both ancient historical and cultural heritage and modern urban style; it has both a strong artistic atmosphere and a rich food experience. Here, you can feel the enthusiasm and hospitality of the Latvian people, and you can also appreciate the unique charm and style of this city🌍✨.

It was our second time to Riga, Latvia. During our time in Riga, we explored this charming city and discovered some fantastic places to visit. We visited the House of the Black Heads and were amazed by its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. The entrance fee is required , but it's worth every cent. 📍Rātslaukums 7 💰€6 We then took a stroll through the Old Town. We explored the narrow cobblestone streets, and every corner seemed to have a new surprise, from quaint shops to beautiful churches. Don’t miss the St. Peter's Church. We went up the tower and enjoy panoramic views of Riga. 📍Skārņu iela 19 💰€9 We also went to Lido Alus Seta for lunch. We had a hearty Latvian lunch here, including traditional dishes like grey peas with bacon 🥓 and pork schnitzel. The prices are reasonable and worth to try! 💰 €10-15 per person 📍Tirgonu iela 6 We also visited the Riga Central Market. One of Europe's largest and most vibrant markets. We loved exploring the various sections – from fresh produce to local crafts. It's a great place to try some smoked fish or pick up local cheeses 🧀 📍Nēģu iela 7 We also have our dinner at 3 Pavāru Restorāns. We had a fantastic meal here. I would recommend you to try Baltic herring tartare and the venison fillet 🥰 💰€20-35 per person. 📍Torņa iela 4 We also went to Latvian National Museum of Art 🖼️ We found the collection of Latvian art to be fascinating, especially the pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. 💰 €6 📍Jaņa Rozentāla laukums 1 We also took a walk in Esplanade Park and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. We visited the nearby Nativity of Christ Cathedral, a stunning Orthodox church with beautiful interiors. 📍Brīvības bulvāris 23 We also took a day trip to Jūrmala, a beautiful seaside resort town just 30 minutes from Riga by train (tickets cost around €2). We spent a relaxing morning on the beach and explored the charming wooden houses along Jomas Street. Then we headed back to Riga and visit Riga Castle 🏰, the residence of the Latvian President. While we couldn't enter, we enjoyed walking around the beautiful grounds. 📍Pils laukums 3 Last but not least, I would recommend you to visit Bibliotēka No1 Restorān. We found the setting elegant and the food exceptional. Try their duck breast with cherry sauce and wild mushroom risotto. 💰€30-50 📍Terbatas iela 2 #europetrip #trip #Vacation

#myhiddengems I’ll share with you my spots for perfect pictures in Riga, the capital of Latvia. It is definitely worth to visit during summer time to get great weather and don’t spend much money 1. GO BUCK WILD IN OLD TOWN Out of all the picturesque things to do in Riga, walking around in Old Town takes the cake. Everywhere you turn, there are colorful shop fronts, intricate architecture and tiny streets. It's picture perfect overload, and overwhelment is inevitable. Prepare accordingly. 2. RIDE TO THE TOP OF ST. PETER'S CHURCH Not gonna lie, this is probably going to be your most expensive pic of the trip. It costs €9 to ride the elevator to the top of St. Peter's Church but it's a small price to pay for having the best photo on your friends' feeds and the best view of the city (but who cares about the latter.. am I right?). Circle around the tower for a 360° view of Riga and see everything from the Freedom Tower to the Central Market and of course, Old Town. PRO TIP: Visit just before the sun goes down for the the best light and hopefully a beautiful sunset backdrop. 3. WALK DOWN ALBERTA IELA Riga is known to have the finest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in the world. To get the most bang for your buck, head to Albert Street 4. TAKE A STROLL THROUGH VERMANES GARDEN I'm not usually the type to seek out parks when I travel but Vermanes Garden was especially beautiful. You can sit on the dock, walk along tree-lined paths, or even rent a small boat. 5. GET COZY AT ASPARA TEA HOUSE Apsara Tea House has the right ingredients for a perfect Instagram picture: 1. tea/coffee 2. floor pillows 3. a chandelier. The tea house also has floor to ceiling windows and is located right on the river which gives you a great backdrop.

#myhiddengems During my summer vacation, I had a fantastic time at the Riga Motor Museum in Riga, Latvia. Located a bit outside the city center, the museum is easy to reach and well worth the trip. The entrance fee was around 15 EUR, which was a great deal considering the extensive collection and the high quality of the exhibits. The museum features an impressive array of vintage cars, including rare and unique models from the early 20th century. I was particularly impressed by the Soviet-era vehicles, which offered a fascinating glimpse into automotive history from a different perspective. The exhibits are well-organized, and the interactive displays make it fun for visitors of all ages. Nearby, you can visit the beautiful Mežaparks area or explore the picturesque surroundings of the city’s parks. The museum itself has a nice café where you can relax after exploring the exhibits. Overall, the Riga Motor Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It’s a well-curated museum that provides an engaging look into the evolution of automobiles. #trip #RigaMotorMuseum #VintageCars #LatviaTravel #AutomotiveHistory #CulturalExperience

It was a trip to Latvia during the weekend. Upon arrival we explored around the Old Town Riga (Vecrīga).The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. I would recommend you to visit house of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church. 📍Riga, Latvia We then walked around the Art Nouveau District. Riga boasts one of the world's largest collections of Art Nouveau buildings. If you only have limited time. The “must see” one would be Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela. We also visited the famous restaurant, Vincents. A fine dining with a modern twist on Latvian cuisine. We had the Tasting menu, featuring local and seasonal ingredients. I just love it so much 😍😍😍 💰€50-100 per person 📍 Elizabetes iela 19, Riga, LV-1010, Latvia We also visited the Sigulda Medieval Castle. It was built in the early 13th century, the castle offers a glimpse into medieval Latvian history. 📍Address: Pils iela 18, Sigulda, LV-2150, Latvia We also spend sometimes to explore around the Gauja National Park. If you are there, you can do activities like hiking, exploring Gutmanis Cave and Bobsleigh track. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📍Sigulda, Latvia We also explored the Cēsis Castle. A well-preserved medieval castle dating back to the 13th century 🏰 📍Pils iela 9, Cēsis, LV-4101, Latvia If you have extra time, I would the you to visit Hotel Cēsis Restaurant. It is a traditional Latvian and European cuisine. We ordered the Latvian pork ribs, Cabbage rolls which were very delicious ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💰€15-25 per person 📍Vienības laukums 1, Cēsis, LV-4101, Latvia We also walked around Cēsis Old Town. Walking through the historic streets, visiting St. John’s Church. 📍CCēsis, Latvia #weekendgetaways #trip #vacation

These are the cute doors I found in the Old Town of Riga, a World Heritage Site in Latvia 🇱🇻 After joining the Hanseatic League in the 13th century, the city developed through trade with the Baltic Sea region and northern Germany. The medieval living space and historical buildings are so beautiful that it's easy to see why it's called the "Pearl of the Baltic Sea" ✨ I had planned to go to the observation deck in the city that day, but unfortunately it was cloudy, so I quickly changed my plans to go door-to-door 🚪 Each door had a really cute design, so I ended up going around the whole old town even though I had intended to just take a quick walk. —————————————Spot information📍Location: Riga Old Town🚗Access: 30 minutes by bus (280 yen) or 20 minutes by taxi (2200 yen) from Riga International Airport💡Recommendation: If you take the bus, you can get a cheaper ticket by buying it from the ticket machine near the bus stop or at the convenience store in the airport. If you take a taxi, you can avoid being ripped off by using the taxi counter in the airport or the Bolt taxi app. #Latvia #RigaOldTown #EuropeTrip #OverseasTrip #TravelWithMe #IStartedMoments #PhotogenicSpots #HowToTakePhotos #TravelInspiration

I took a walk in the Old Town of Riga, a World Heritage Site in Latvia 🇱🇻 The medieval streets, also known as the pearl of the Baltic Sea, are very beautiful, and just walking on the exotic cobblestones made me feel wonderful. It was like a world view from Kiki's Delivery Service 🐈⬛ I have summarized some famous spots below. It is a compact and cute city, so you can walk around as you like in half a day ✨ ———————————Spot information 📍Location: Old Town of Riga 🚗Access: 30 minutes by bus (280 yen) from Riga International Airport, 20 minutes by taxi (2200 yen) 💡Recommendation: If you take the bus, you can get a cheaper ticket by buying a ticket at the ticket machine near the bus stop or at the convenience store in the airport, and if you take a taxi, you can avoid being ripped off by using the taxi counter in the airport or the taxi app called Bolt. 📸Each photo spot has a history and story, so the more you know about it, the more interesting it becomes to walk around. It is an attractive city. 1st photo: Observation space of St. Peter's Church 2nd photo: Riga Cathedral seen from Dome Square 3rd photo: Church of Our Lady of Sorrows seen from Pils Street 4th photo: House of the Blackheads 5th photo: Powder Tower #Latvia #Old Town of Riga #Overseas travel #Recommended hidden spots for travel lovers #Travel inspiration #Travel with me #I started Moments #Europe travel #Photogenic spots

The Riga central market is a must visit for local Latvian delicacies and food. It is Europe's largest market by space and was built in 1930, making it nearly a century old! Inside you will find lots of vendors selling snacks and drinks, and the hangars are divided by food type, fish, meats, and gastronomy. It is a convenient location, situated next to the Riga bus station. #timetotravel #riga

This time the second stop of the three small Baltic countries comes to Latvia There is one of the largest markets in Europe next to the bus transfer station. It looks like a Zeppelin flying boat. There are five of them in total. It is really huge. The fruits here are also super cheap. Oh, and there are many tours. You can buy super beautiful flowers that are super fresh, so it’s perfect to spend a morning browsing.

Latvia, the country located in the center of the sandwich of the three small Baltic countries, is the same as Lithuania and Estonia. It has been ruled by many countries in history, forming a multi-ethnic fusion country today. Riga, the capital of Latvia, is the largest city among the three small countries. Although the reputation of the three small countries is not as loud as other European countries, you know that Riga's historical buildings are not inferior to Western European countries! Especially under the blue sky and white clouds in summer, people were deeply attracted by the scenery of Riga. Sites worth to visit The Freedom Monument: at the top of the monument is a Statue of Liberty facing west. The name of the goddess is Milda, the goddess of love in Lithuanian mythology. The goddess holds three golden stars in her hands, representing the three historical regions of Latvia, Kurzeme, Vidzeme and Latgale. St. Peter’s Church, Riga: There are quite a number of churches in Riga and their shapes are diverse. The most difficult to miss are the three churches with the towers of the Riga skyline, namely St. Peter's Church, Riga Cathedral and St. James' Cathedral. In the medieval map It is easy to see the pictures of the three of them. Riga Town Hall Square – Rātslaukums: Today's City Hall Square has become a must-see attraction for sightseeing. In addition to the famous Blackhead Palace, City Hall and Roland Statue, the square is also a place full of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. There are also streets on the square from time to time. Artists perform, it is worth spending more time to stop and enjoy the good times in the square. #境外遊 #riga

Let me start by just saying : wow ! What a beating town. Riga is a small town and it’s possible to just keep on walking all day long and just stop and watch all the beautiful building all day long! If you get cold you can stop and have a glas of Balsam - the local drink from Latvia. If will make you warm in no time ! They have many cozy pubs and restaurants- and the price is great. For under 20euro you can have a drink and food for the night. We choose to do a free walking tour and on the tour we learn so much about the city. For example the story about the cat in the roof and why it’s facing the Opera. Make sure to put Riga on your next weekend trip away.

Location: Riga, capital city of Latvia. Getting there: Fly to Riga from most European cities. Or you can take the fast bus from Tallin or Vilnius as part of a Baltic state tour. Riga is the biggest city in the Baltic countries. Highlights include the old town. The old town has stunning soviet style architecture...especially House of the Blackheads. Also, go for a walk along the river to enjoy the cathedral spires peering over the water. #riga #latvia

A walk of a new world and life too a city of unknown, Best for traveling in a road made of stones. Its beauty wasnt only in place but by their people. Appreciate a life who lives into peace and God worship. 🇱🇻😊😍

Latvia🇱🇻Attractions-Riga Cathedral This is one of the most famous attractions in Riga The church is in Gothic style The entire interior is painted white, which is a simple style The most famous thing in this cathedral is this pipe organ At that time, this was the largest pipe organ in the world. Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Cathedral This is one of the most famous sights in Riga church in gothic style The whole interior is painted white, which is a minimalist style The most famous thing in this cathedral is this pipe organ This was the largest pipe organ in the world at the time. #New YearGood Place

Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions-Riga Old City Wall & Old Camp Along the Powder Tower is a very eye-catching red brick wall The yellow building on the other side of the wall was the camp at that time. There is no defense anymore. Part of the camp has been transformed into a restaurant and a creative shop. This is the only remaining Swedish gate in the old city wall. Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Old City Wall & Old Camp Along the Gunpowder Tower is a very eye-catching red brick city wall The yellow building on the other side of the wall was the camp area at that time There is no longer any defense Part of the camp has been turned into a restaurant, cultural and creative shop There is also the only remaining Swedish gate in the old city wall. #NewYearGoodDestinations

Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Livu Square There are several special buildings in this square They are the Big and Little Guilt House, and the Cat House They have some interesting stories According to legend, the Great Guild Chamber of Commerce was founded by wealthy German businessmen at that time The owner of the Cat House refused to join the club Therefore, two cats were installed on the roof to face the chamber of commerce as a vent It went to court But in the end there was a settlement that shifted the position of the cat #New Year's Good Place

Latvia🇱🇻Attractions-Riga Blackhead Palace I think this is the most beautiful building in Riga This is a chamber of commerce established by the early Black Head Brotherhood. He went through each era and transformed different architectural styles. Destroyed during World War II It was not until the end of the 20th century that the reconstruction was completed Let me see my original beauty again Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Black Palace This is the most beautiful building in Riga in my opinion It's a chamber of commerce founded by the early blackhead fraternities He has remodeled different architectural styles in each era bombed during WWII Reconstruction was not completed until the end of the 20th century Let me regain my original beauty #New YearGood Place

Latvia🇱🇻Attractions-Riga Parking Point Share a free and very good parking spot in Riga Right on the banks of the Daugava River, opposite the Old Town of Riga The location is on this small island near the Riga TV Tower There is a large space for parking at the other end of the TV tower Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Parking Spots Share a free location in Riga very good car parking location Right on the banks of the Daugava River, facing the old town of Riga The location is on this small island of the Riga TV Tower There is a large space at the other end of the TV tower for parking #New YearGood Place

Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Powder Tower This is a military museum From feudal times to modern times after World War II There are detailed introductions to the military development on the Latvian side. Military fans must not miss this attraction This is also the only place in Riga with free toilets😅 Hurry up and take notes, next time you don't have to look for the toilet Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Riga Powder Tower This is sort of a military museum From feudal times to modern times after World War II There are detailed introductions to the military development on the Latvian side. Military fans must not miss this attraction This is also the only place in Riga with free toilets😅 Hurry up and take notes, next time you don't have to look for the toilet #New Year's good place

Riga Airport located west side of city.You can go airport very easily by bus number 22. Tickets are affordable,same with full ticket price for public transport.It departs from city center,central bus station.Approximately arrives to airport in 45 minutes. Riga Airport is not very small.There are too many gates and biggest airport in country. Additional information- If you arrive to airport,after security check,if you want to drink wster for free or fill your empty bottles,you can go B7 gate and there is a filter. Thank you for reading! #tripblazers

In Riga parks are very important for people.They love to walk,meet and bring their children to play in parks.There are so many beautiful places with fresh oxygen surrounded by trees ,playgrounds for children and especially nature animals. I took the picture of ducks,they are swimming confidently in the river.There are 3 bridges in the park,it means you can take nice pictures on it. #tripblazers

Riga is very famous with shopping center in the Region.You can find everything to buy and there are more than 6 huge shopping centers in the city. One of them is located in the middle of the city center. It is very old as you can see since 1937 Galerija Centrs open for people. I like the style of building and inside is very modern. My favorite shopping mall was Riga Plaza.#tripblazers