13 Best Things To Do In Riga, Latvia
What To Do And See In Riga
Are you looking for the best things to do in Riga, Latvia? As someone who’s explored many of Europe’s most stunning capitals from Rome and Paris to Athens and Lisbon, I can confidently say that Riga stands among the most beautiful cities on the continent.
During our action-packed 3-day adventure in Latvia’s capital, we dove deep into the city’s main attractions, and I’m excited to share our experiences with you.
From the haunting history preserved in the KGB Museum to the vibrant atmosphere of the Riga Central Market, this Baltic capital offers an incredible mix of experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or architecture enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love in Riga.
Let me walk you through the most memorable attractions that make this city truly special.
I promise to answer the question of whether Riga Is Worth Visiting.
Find out where to stay in Riga before you book your hotel.
Let’s begin!
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Map Of The Best Things To Do In Riga
1. Explore Riga Old Town
When I stepped into Riga’s Old Town, it felt like I was in a scene from “The Grand Budapest Hotel.”
Akin to walking through an architectural museum.
The colours, architecture and atmosphere were so energising. It made total sense when I heard that the Old Town is a UNESCO site.
These unique buildings stand side by side along with medieval churches and merchant houses, which have become synonymous with Riga.
My biggest tip for first-time visitors is to take a free walking tour.
Our tour guide, Liga, had such depth of knowledge about the city that we felt like we knew exactly where everything was and understood the history behind it.
It was like a crash course on Riga’s past.
While we were disappointed that the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, next to the House of the Blackheads, was closed during our visit, the magnificent facade of this restored merchant meeting house more than made up for it.
Some places to watch out for:
- The House of the Blackheads
- The Cat House
- The Swedish Gate
- Riga Cathedral
- Three Brothers
- St. Peter’s Church
- Town Hall Square
Pros:
- Guides provide informative tours about Riga’s history and culture
- Small and easily walkable old town
- Every street has something interesting to view
Cons:
- Very busy in high season -June to August (we went in March)
- Some attractions have limited hours open
- With no guide, it’s hard to know what to look for
Price: Free (although the free walking tours normally operate on a tip basis)
Best For: Architecture lovers, history lovers, photographers, and couples
Location: Vecrīga, Riga, Latvia
Explore My 3 Days In Riga Iinerary To Plan Your Trip Flawlessly
🤩 I loved our 2-hour walking tour of Old Town Riga for its perfect mix of historical insights and architectural attractions!
2. Visit Freedom Monument
The Freedom Monument in Riga is 42 meters tall, and I instantly felt the importance of this place when I arrived.
This monument is a symbol of Latvia’s independence after the War of Independence from 1918 to 1920. Honestly, when we visited, I couldn’t believe how tall and impressive it looked from up close.
Built in 1935, it symbolises the country’s indomitable spirit after years of occupation. It stands as a powerful testament to Latvia’s regained independence.
Standing at the bottom, I could see a statue at the top holding three stars. These stars represent Latvia’s different regions.
The statue, which depicts a woman, reaches toward the sky in an act of hope.
This gave me goosebumps.
Pros:
- Great place to walk around
- Experience a symbolic display
- Reflect on Riga’s history
Cons:
- It can get very busy in the morning
- Don’t split up – you may get lost
- Some merchants speak only Latvian or Russian
Price: Free (bring cash for eating)
Best For: Food lovers and anyone who wants to see local life
Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia
3. Discover Riga Central Market
Riga Central Market was one of my favourite places and definitely one of the best things to do in Riga.
Why, you may ask? Well, walking through this place is like stepping into a giant food heaven!
Interestingly, the market is inside what were once five large Zeppelin hangars that held military airships. When I visited, I said to myself, It’s pretty amazing to shop for groceries in such a historic place.
It goes without question that you must try some of the food. My favourite things to eat here were the pickled cucumbers – they’re tangy and super tasty! You need to try this for yourself.
It’s great because you can find anything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat and other local foods. I tried to buy something with a lovely Latvian woman, but because I didn’t speak Latvian or Russian, we couldn’t really understand each other. But we got there in the end!
Additionally, there’s also an outdoor area where you can shop for clothes and get a great view of the nearby bridge over the river.
You’re guaranteed to enjoy exploring the Central Market!
I made a 2-day itinerary for Riga, if you need some help planning a trip!
Pros:
- Tons of different foods to try and buy
- Really interesting buildings to explore
- Better prices than regular stores
Cons:
- Can get very busy in the morning
- Don’t split up – you may get lost
- Some merchants speak only Latvian or Russian
Price: Free (bring cash for eating)
Best For: Food lovers and anyone who wants to see local life
Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this trusted food tour because you get to taste the best local foods with a friendly guide who knows all the good spots!
4. Enter The KGB Museum (The Corner House)
A scary but important thing to do in Riga is to visit the infamous KGB Museum.
Also known as the “Corner House,” this place reveals the horrific past that many Latvians endured under the influence of the Soviet Union.
One word describes this place – chilling.
The Corner House used to be the KGB headquarters. Today, it has been preserved extraordinarily well. The systematic repression and torture that went on within its walls and beyond are clearly visible.
When I visited, I entered the interrogation rooms, the cells, and even an execution chamber, which was surreal to see firsthand.
You can watch the video I made below on the KGB Museum to get a deeper insight. What really shocked me were the testimonials from hundreds, if not thousands, of Latvians who felt the power of the Soviet KGB.
During our visit, walking through the basement cells was eerie. Our guide told us horrid stories of those who were imprisoned here left an indelible impression.
However, I found it to be truly enlightening on a topic that I previously knew little about. It was very hard for me to hear and see what this museum showcases.
Additionally, the prisoner’s writings are still visible today on the cell walls, which I found to be particularly sad.
Pros:
- Learn about what happened in Riga
- Read detailed exhibits in English
- Sad but powerful experience
Cons:
- Unquestionably sensitive
- Parts are hard to access for people with mobility issues
- A guided tour is a must
Price: €15.00 for guided tours (required for full access)
Best For: History lovers, people interested in Soviet history, and those interested in human rights
Location: Brīvības iela 61, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this fascinating KGB Museum guided tour to book Museum of Genocide Victims tickets in advance to save time
5. Visit The Latvian Academy of Sciences
Visiting the Latvian Academy of Sciences was a brilliant thing to do in Riga.
The architecture hits you in the face a mile away. This pure Stalin design is known throughout the former Soviet Union. Honestly, I loved it. It dominates the skyline and grabs your attention fast.
Some people call it a “Stalin Birthday Cake” design for the way it’s shaped. The views from the observation deck are fantastic.
During our visit, we were mightily impressed by the 360-degree vistas of the Old Town’s spires, the winding Daugava River, and the modern city beyond.
It’s on the 17th floor, and you get there by using a combination of elevator and stairs. Walking up the stairs was a struggle but the views at the top were worth it all.
During our visit, we were mightily impressed by the 360-degree vistas of the Old Town’s spires, the winding Daugava River, and the modern city beyond.
It’s on the 17th floor, and you get there by using a combination of elevator and stairs. Walking up the stairs was a struggle, but the views at the top were worth it all.
We were pleasantly surprised to discover an art exhibition in the ground-floor lobby showcasing local Latvian artists. But there are no guarantees that there will be an art exhibition once you arrive in Riga. We just got lucky.
Pros:
- Located right beside Riga Central Market
- Easy to reach
- Affordable price – €6.00
Cons:
- Only requires a short visit
- The weather can affect the experience
- Limited information was provided about the building
Price: €6.00 for observation deck access
Best For: Architecture enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for the best views of Riga
Location: Akademijas laukums 1, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this excellent Riga Central Market AND Latvian Academy of Sciences Observation Deck Tour because it combines a visit to the Academy with the Central Market
6. Explore St. Peter’s Church
I loved visiting St. Peter’s Church.
It’s a beautifully designed Gothic church from the 15th century that stands more than 130 meters tall.
I promise you’ll find an outstanding view of the city from the viewing platform.
When we visited, we took the elevator up, and once the door opened, it was special. I was amazed to learn that the tower had collapsed in 1666. The church had to be rebuilt after World War II.
Twenty-four years after its collapse, a new tower was built in the Baroque style, featuring several domes and galleries, becoming the highest wooden construction in the world at that time.
When we walked into the church, it was immediately clear how beautiful this place is. Red bricks fill the walls, and light streams through the windows. To be fair, it’s stunning.
It was easy for us to get to the top. Happily, we spent an hour there just looking around and taking photos. Choosing where we would visit next from such a vantage point was plenty of fun.
Pros:
- Brilliant 360-degree views of the city
- The church’s interior is incredible
- Impressive red brick design and well-lit inside
Cons:
- Bad weather may affect opening hours of tower
- Expect crowds during peak hours
- Separate fees required for church entry and tower access
Price: €9.00 for tower access, €3.00 for church entry
Best For: Photography enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone looking for great city views
Location: Reformācijas Laukums 1, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this excellently rated Private Riga Tour which includes St. Peters Church which includes entry to St. Peter’s Church and its tower!
7. Discover The Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto in Riga is a sobering experience and one which highlights the dark side of Latvia.
I found this to be very emotionally difficult. Ultimately, it is a memorial to the Jewish community that lived in Riga and fell victim to the Holocaust.
It’s not an easy experience. However, it is a very important place to go to understand Latvians and the region more broadly.
I have to admit, walking through the homes of the victims was more challenging than I thought it would be.
The staff were excellent.
They provided detailed insight into the museum’s exhibits and guided us through the preserved homes. Inside the houses were newspapers, clothes, shoes and other items that you would expect to find in people’s homes.
Even though it was emotionally challenging to process, I would urge any visitor to Riga to visit.
It’s a powerful way to learn about Riga’s history and Europe’s past.
Pros:
- Deep look at life as a Jew in Riga before the war
- Large collection of exhibits with detailed information
- Well-maintained artefacts and interesting displays
Cons:
- Very difficult emotionally
- Can overwhelm visitors
- Makes you feel sad for the remainder of the day
Price: €5.00 for the Holocaust Museum Riga
Location: Maskavas iela 14a, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this informative Jewish Heritage Tour for its thorough exploration of Jewish history in Riga with expert guides!
8. The Nativity Cathedral
A beautiful place to visit in Riga is the Nativity Cathedral.
It is the most beautiful Orthodox church in the city, in my view.
What impressed me the most was the brilliant Neo-Byzantine architecture and shining golden domes that I could see from the street outside.
Once you get inside, you can see all the iconography, paintings and decorations, which make it a peaceful place to visit and one of the best things to do in Riga.
Thankfully, we were fortunate enough to attend a mass inside the Nativity Cathedral. While I don’t often go to mass, it was a unique experience to attend.
I was impressed with the singing of the choir. It was truly brilliant to sit and listen and smell the incense. The priest even came out and blessed people during his service. We felt entirely welcome, even though people knew we were not locals.
The altar was fabulous, but while I can’t show you images as no photos were allowed inside, you can visit and see for yourself.
Pros:
- Amazing interior and exterior to photograph
- Free to enter
- Easy to reach
Cons:
- No photos allowed inside
- Opening hours are limited during mass
- Must cover knees and shoulders
Price: Free entry
Best For: Architecture enthusiasts, cultural travellers, and those interested in religious history
Location: Brīvības bulvāris 23, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this comprehensive Riga Old Town walking tour, which includes a visit to the magnificent Nativity Cathedral!
9. Holy Trinity Church
Another inspiring place to visit in Riga is the Holy Trinity Church.
This church features another Orthodox design in the city.
The first thing I noticed was the three domes on the roof. Not to mention the walls were pink. This was certainly a first for me. Some people find it ugly, while I found it amazingly interesting from a colour perspective.
Once inside, you can see some stunning paintings which are typically found in an Orthodox church. For me, the best part was simply sitting outside and looking up.
When we visited the Holy Trinity Church, I was struck by how the trees frame the entrance. It looks like an almost mystical approach to the church.
It’s true that a half-hour walk from Old Town isn’t ideal; still, I found it to be a nice journey (though cold, we went in March) that allowed me to see more of Riga.
We sat on the wooden benches outside the church as they gave us perfect spots for sitting and admiring the church for a while.
Pros:
- Unique church design even in Riga
- Located in a natural setting with nature around it
- Can sit in silence outside
Cons:
- Half hour walk from the Old Town
- Not always open
- Less things around than the Old Town
Price: Free entry (donations welcome)
Location: Krisjana Barona iela 26, Riga, Latvia
11.Bastejkalna Park
Bastejkalna Park is a charming green area in the heart of Riga – even when we visited in winter.
What I loved about this park was its atmosphere and raw nature contrasted against the cityscape in the background.
Throughout the park, you can see the small canal. It zigzags right through the middle of the park, adding another layer of depth to the already picture-perfect city.
Apart from walking through the grounds, you can watch people go about their daily lives, whether locals or tourists. It was great to hear the laughter of the children and the chatter from groups of friends all around.
The best part for me was the liveliness found all around the park. We even saw joggers moving through the park in the cold weather.
Another cool thing to do is get a boat tour through the canals. There are nice flower beds and bridges, so it looks well-maintained and is a pleasant experience.
It is a very nice place to pass through and one of the best things to do in Riga I think.
Pros:
- Nice park right in the city to explore
- Wont take too much time to see it all
- Free to enter
Cons:
- Expect big crowds when the weather is good and on weekends
- Hard to find a seat during peak hours
- Some people may find it boring
Price: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, families, and anyone needing a peaceful break from sightseeing.
Location: Bastejkalns, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this excellent Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat, which includes a guided walk through the beautiful Bastejkalna Park!
12. The National Library of Latvia
The National Library of Latvia is a modern building with epic views across the city.
Also called the Castle of Light, it’s really unique compared to the other tall buildings found in the city.
It is packed full of glass. Its design is very modern and unique. Believe it or not, it looks like a mountain of books piled up on top of one another. Now that is creative!
When we visited the library, there were so many people inside. Students and others were spread throughout the building, occupying many levels where they focused on their studies.
Inside, the main room is bright and has a premium feel.
Although when we made our way to the viewing platform at the top, hoping to see the city spread out below us, the clouds really ruined what would have been a breathtaking view.
This means we will have to revisit another day to see the views.
The building itself is quite special.
The library is so open and spacious inside, it’s truly impressive.
Pros:
- Beautiful modern design inside and out
- Free to enter and explore
- Central location near Old Town
Cons:
- Views depend heavily on weather
- Can be quite busy during study hours
- Some areas restricted to library card holders
Price: Free
Best For: Architecture lovers, photographers, and anyone interested in modern design
Location: Mūkusalas iela 3, Riga, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this fantastic Old Town Walking Tour & Canal Boat Experience. Good reviews and places to see.
13. Explore Riga’s Art Nouveau Architecture
Lastly, what I think Riga is famous for, and rightfully so, is the Art Nouveau architecture along Alberta iela.
These streets of Riga highlight the brilliant 20th-century architectural design found throughout the city.
The most impressive of these streets, located at Alberta iela 12, Centra rajons, is home to some of the most beautiful examples of this style in Europe.
During our visit, we found ourselves constantly looking up and around to see new colours and interesting features of the buildings.
Honestly, every corner we turned showed us something new and fresh. We took many pictures along the way and recommend you do the same.
I’m talking about bright oranges, blues, and whites that contrast brilliantly with each other.
It feels like an open-air museum, and I think it’s easily one of the best things to do in Riga.
Pros:
- Loads of cool architecture in one street
- Free to walk around on your own
- Well-maintained buildings
Cons:
- Can get crowded with photography enthusiasts
- Most buildings are private residences and can’t be entered
- Best viewed during daylight hours
Price: Free
Best For: Architecture enthusiasts, photographers, and history lovers
Location: Alberta iela 12, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia
🤩 I recommend this fantastic Riga Old Town Centre & Art Nouveau Tour, it is highly rated and includes some amazing places to visit.
Where To Stay In Riga?
When it comes to accommodation in Riga, the Old Town is undoubtedly the best choice for both couples and solo travellers.
This UNESCO World Heritage site not only puts you in the heart of the action but also offers the most enjoyable stay in the city.
Couples (like we did) will fall in love with the romantic cobblestone streets and charming medieval architecture right outside their doorstep, while solo travelers will appreciate the area’s safety, central location, and proximity to major attractions.
Though slightly pricier than other districts, the convenience and charm of staying in the Old Town make it worth every euro.
You’ll find everything from boutique hotels housed in historic buildings to modern apartments with stunning views of the city’s spires.
Final Thoughts
After spending several days exploring Riga, I can confidently say this Baltic capital exceeded all my expectations.
Before visiting, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from Latvia’s capital city. Would it be just another European city? But Riga surprised me in the best possible way.
It has magnificent Art Nouveau architecture and a historic Old Town. Its markets are full of life, and the city also has interesting museums.
What impressed me most was how affordable everything remained while still maintaining high quality, whether it’s the restaurants, accommodations, or activities.
For solo travellers, you’ll find Riga incredibly safe and easy to navigate. Couples will love the romantic atmosphere, especially during sunset walks along the canal or through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
The city’s petite size means you can explore most attractions on foot.
🎥 Want to see all these amazing attractions in action? Check out my detailed YouTube video guide to Riga, where I take you through all these locations and more, giving you a real feel for what to expect. Trust me, seeing these places in motion will make you want to book your tickets right away!
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQS
Is Riga Worth Visiting?
Yes, Riga is totally worth visiting! I had an amazing, action-packed 3 days in the city. The Art Nouveau architecture, the history, and the food are just a few reasons why so many people love to visit. The Old Town centre holds many of the best things to do in Riga, so visitors can easily walk from one attraction to the next. A few more attractions are located outside the Old Town, but this makes for a little more adventure.
How Much Is A Pint Of Beer In Riga, Latvia?
In the Old Town, a pint of beer costs between €4-8. While this may be considered expensive, it would be a shame not to try the domestic beer while in Latvia. Aldaris, Cēsu Alus, and Lāčplēsis are some local beers to consider. I also recommend trying Black Balsam, the national drink of Latvia.
What Is Riga Famous For?
Riga is famous for its colorful Art Nouveau architecture, Soviet history, and wooden architecture. Did you know Riga’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997? Along with Sweden, it was the European Capital of Culture in 2014. Exploring the amazing architecture is one of the best things to do in Riga.
🤩 Check out my 3-Day Itinerary For Riga
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