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Riga, Latvia, is one of those underrated European city breaks that gets overlooked for some of the more well-known counterparts. But it is well worth putting it on your radar, as it is truly a gem of a city. But what to do in Riga?
I visited over a weekend, as a solo traveller, and found it to be the perfect break. Lots to see, but totally manageable over three relaxing days. Here is what to do in Riga for the best mini break.
How to get to Riga
By Plane
Flights to Riga are very reasonable, and there are multiple flights a day from UK airports. Check Skyscanner for the best prices.
You can get from Riga Airport to the city centre by bus (route 22), taxi or Uber. Public transport is the cheapest option, with a single ticket costing €1.81 and can be purchased from the driver with a bank card.
By Bus
Alternatively, Riga makes a perfect middle destination in a European city tour. Starting in Tallinn, getting the bus to Riga, and then finishing in Vilnius. This was in fact my plan in autumn 2021; however, Latvia tightened up its travel restrictions the day before I was due to fly. So instead, I ended up in Helsinki.
The bus from Tallinn takes 4 hours and 45 minutes, and there are multiple departures each day, with prices starting from as little as €7.
From Vilnius, it is around 4 hours and 30 minutes, with on average 4 buses a day, and prices starting from €10.
What to do in Riga
When planning what to do in Riga, a lot of the highlights are in the Old Town. And this is definitely worth spending some time in. But I have also added some extra parts of the city that you need to explore to make the most of your time in the Latvian capital.
Old Town Highlights – What to do in Riga
The heart of the city, and it looks exactly like what you would imagine any fairytale city to look like. With cobbled streets, pastel houses and little nooks to find, it is hard not to fall in love. Don’t miss these best things to do in the Old Town.
Wander the Old Town
It would be impossible to start discussing what to do in Riga without the first point being to wander the beautiful, cobbled streets of the Old Town. Packed full of gorgeous buildings and those picture-perfect views that make this city so charming. There are tons of cosy pubs, cute cafes and lots of restaurants to break up the day!
One of the best ways to see it is with a free guided walking tour of the Old Town, which should take around 2 hours. It gives you a good basis to understand the history and find some of the best spots in the city.
Visit the Town Hall Square & House of the Blackheads
Right in the heart of Riga’s Old Town is the Town Hall Square. This is a great place to start your exploration of the Old Town. Vibrant and historic, this is a place that gives a real insight into the city’s rich cultural past. In the centre of the Square is the Town Hall, which once served as the City’s administrative centre.
Just around the corner is the impressive and iconic House of the Blackheads, which was painstakingly reconstructed in the 1990s after being destroyed in World War II. It is a Gothic building, originally built as a guild hall for unmarried merchants.
Walk through the Swedish Gate (Zviedru Vārti)
If you are a romantic, then don’t miss the Swedish Gate in the Old Town. Legend has it that a young Latvian girl fell in love with a Swedish soldier during their occupation. One night, she attempted to sneak through the gate to meet him and was caught. As a punishment, she was sealed within the city walls themselves. Apparently, if you hear her sing as you walk through, you are in love!
The Swedes built the gate in 1698, when the city was under Swedish rule, and it was once part of the city’s defensive walls. Just beyond are the old barracks that housed the Swedish Army.
Head up St Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church is the tallest building in the city, and no structure can be built taller than it to preserve the skyline.
The tower you can now ascend is actually the fourth to be built. The first was a wooden tower that fell in a storm in 1666. This was then rebuilt and burnt down a year later after being struck by lightning. It was then rebuilt in a Gothic style and survived nearly two centuries before being destroyed in World War II. The current tower was built in 1972.
It costs €9 to head up the tower, and it’s a must-do in Riga, as the views from the top are incredible. You can visit the church inside, and then take the lift up the bell tower for 360º views from the top.
Take a photo of the Three Brothers
The Three Brothers is one of the most famous sites in Riga, and actually one of my favourite spots! The three houses side by side represent different architectural styles in the city over the ages. Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, all telling their part of what makes up the fabric of this city.
City Views and Scenic Walks – What to do in Riga
What to do in Riga that is outside of the Old Town? There is so much more that this city has to offer, with some incredible views and beautiful walks to explore.
Take in the view from the National Library
Cross over the river and head to the National Library. A modern building that stands out against Riga’s skyline, Iit absolutely beautiful inside – and a book lover’s paradise. With a glass atrium and shelves of beautifully arranged books.
But even more impressively, head up to the top floor for one of the best panoramic views of the city. From here, you can look out across the Daugava River towards the Old Town, with its church spires and red rooftops stretching out before you.
Go to the top of the Latvian Academy of Sciences
Another must-see view in this post on what to do in Riga, but this one might be the best yet! Despite how random it might feel, both getting there and when you arrive! The Latvian Academy of Sciences is an imposing Stalinist-style building, often nicknamed “Stalin’s birthday cake” or “the wedding cake” by locals because of its ornate, tiered design. It is located in a much more industrial neighbourhood, and that feeling continues as you enter and take the lift to the 17th floor.
But from there you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view over the entire city. I think this is the best view, as you can see all of the Old Town spires, including the tallest St Peter’s Church, which you obviously miss when you are up it. As well as views of the Daugava River, and even out towards the suburbs beyond. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Walk around the Canals
The medieval city of Riga used to be surrounded by a defensive moat, with these walls being demolished in 1857. Since then, the area has been transformed into a lovely park, Bastejkalna Park, with the canal at its centre. It runs through the city, acting as a separation between the Old Town and the New Town.
It is now a wonderful place to stroll along the banks, enjoy a picnic, or take a boat tour for a different perspective of the city.
Freedom Monument
In the centre of Riga stands the Freedom Monument. An incredibly significant spot, remembering part of the country’s history. It symbolises Latvian national unity, independent statehood and freedom.
It was erected in 1935 and commemorates those who lost their lives during Latvia’s War of Independence. The monument depicts a graceful female figure, known as Milda, holding three golden stars high above her head. Each represents the three historical regions of Latvia: Kurzeme, Vidzeme, and Latgale.
Architecture and Culture – what to do in Riga
Riga is thriving with stunning architecture and interesting culture to explore. When thinking about what to do in Riga, you need to make sure these are on your list!
Visit the Museum of Occupation
Even if you are not usually a museum person, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is an incredibly important place to visit. It gives you a powerful insight into the country’s complex and often painful 20th-century history, helping you understand Riga and Latvia on a much deeper level. As well as being incredibly moving.
Nativity Cathedral
The Nativity Cathedral is the largest and most ornate Orthodox Church in Riga. It was built in 1884 and is a Neo-Byzantine monument. During the Soviet period, it was actually turned into a planetarium before being restored to its original purpose in the 1990s. It takes around 20 minutes to walk to the church from the Old Town. Visitors are allowed inside, but you can’t take photographs, and women have to wear head scarves.
Wander the Art Nouveau District
Potentially a surprising part of the city, but it definitely needs to be on your list of what to do in Riga. The city has the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world, and so a wander around the Art Nouveau District is a must! Most of the architecture dates from 1904 – 1914, when the city was flourishing.
Head towards Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela, where some of the most stunning examples can be found, around a 20-minute walk from the Old Town. While you are there, make sure not to miss the Riga Art Nouveau Museum, even just for the beautiful entrance hall.
Top Tip: If you want to make sure you see all the best Art Nouveau Architecture, why not try this walking tour, which adds a layer of local knowledge!
View the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church
The Holy Trinity Orthodox Church is a little further out from the Old Town; it will take around half an hour to walk there, but it is one of Riga’s hidden gems. It was consecrated in 1895 and is one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches in Riga. Approximately 40% of Riga’s population is Russian, and largely the groups don’t mix. Separate schools, jobs and shops, and churches such as this one.
Where to eat in Riga
Riga has a fantastic food scene, offering cosy brunch spots, cafes and plenty of places to eat local food. Don’t miss these spots.
Traditional Food
For some traditional Latvian food, make sure to check out these places.
Central Market
The choice here is endless! Central Market is located on the edge of the Old Town, next to the Riga Bus Station and the Central Railway Station, and is housed in five former Zeppelin aircraft hangars. It is the best place to sample local flavours and get a feel for everyday life in the city. Wander between stalls piled high with smoked fish, pickles, rye bread, cheeses, and sweet pastries. It’s the perfect spot for a snack or a casual lunch, and a great way to taste a little bit of everything Latvia has to offer.
Lido
A Latvian institution! And an absolute must on your trip. There are multiple spots around the city, each serving up hearty, traditional food in a canteen style. Think dumplings, pork, potatoes, sauerkraut, and plenty of comforting flavours. It’s affordable, quick, and delicious. You pick up a tray, walk along the options and then pay for what you pick at the end.
Cafes and Brunch Spots – What to do in Riga
If you are in the mood for a relaxed day of food, there are plenty of places to check out.
Kafe Teeka
Known as the romantic cafe in Riga. And yes, I did visit solo! The most delicious chocolate cake, and a tasty chai latte in a cosy and welcoming spot.
Art Sienna Cafe
While you are checking out the Art Nouveau architecture, make sure to pop into this cafe. Beautifully designed and full of charm, Art Sienna combines elegant interiors with great coffee and a lovely menu of light meals and desserts. It’s a brilliant choice if you want something a little special or somewhere to take a break between sightseeing stops.
Herbary
Who doesn’t love a rooftop spot? Herbary can be found at the top of the Galleria Riga, a shopping centre in the city. Modern, bright, and stylish. Expect fresh, creative dishes with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options, as well as a cocktail menu. Perfect for a relaxed brunch or dinner with a bit of flair.
Quick Bites
For some quick food on the go!
Big Bad Bagels
Oh wow, these bagels. The first place I visited in Riga and it definitely got my trip off to a good start! Big Bad Bagels. They serve freshly made bagels stuffed with all kinds of delicious combinations. I highly recommend the Perfect for breakfast on the go or a casual lunch between exploring.
Where to stay in Riga
I stayed at Rixwell Old Palace, which offered good value and was in a great location for exploring the Old Town. And while it was clean, the rooms were quite dated and tired.
Riga offers a vast variety of accommodations. I would suggest looking at:
HOTELS IN RIGA:
Budget: Naughty Squirrel Backpackers – A fabulously located hostel with lots of activity options.
Mid-Range: Forum’s Boutique Hotel – Minutes walking distance from the main sights, comfortable and locally run.
Luxury: The Dome Hotel – Found in a 400-year-old building, this hotel offers real personality and attention to detail.
Practical tips for visiting Riga
When is the best time to visit?
Riga really is a year-round destination, but depending on what you want from your trip should inform when you visit.
Spring: (April to June) has longer days, green parks, and milder weather. Although it can still be chilly, so bring a layer! This is the perfect time of year for exploring on foot.
Summer (July to August) is the most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures, open-air festivals, and the outdoor European city vibe, with buzzing café terraces.
Autumn (September to October) offers fewer crowds and beautiful golden colours along the canals and in Bastejkalna Park.
Winter (November to February) can be cold, but the city looks magical, dusted in snow, and the Christmas markets add a cosy charm. This is when it most looks like a fairytale.
How to get around Riga
Particularly if you want to mainly explore the Old Town, Riga is incredibly easy to get around on foot, making it a very walkable city break.
To travel a bit further out, the public transport system is easy and affordable, with trams, trolleybuses, and regular buses connecting the city. Tickets can be bought via the Rīgas satiksme app or from kiosks and cost just a few euros for unlimited rides within an hour.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are widely available and reasonably priced, perfect for getting back from dinner or crossing the river.
If you enjoy cycling, Riga also has a bike-sharing scheme that’s great for exploring the parks and riverfront
Is Riga good for solo travellers?
Yes! Riga was one of my favourite cities that I explored solo. It was very easy to get around, it was quiet and felt safe. All the things I value in a solo city break. You also only need 2-3 days to see the best of the city, making it the perfect mini solo escape.
Riga – the perfect city break! If this post on what to do in Riga helped, please pin it for later!
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