Riga

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Riga, Latvia

Introduction

Welcome to Riga, the stunning capital city of Latvia! Known for its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Riga is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and all the essential information you need to make your trip an unforgettable one.

Places to Visit

Old Town (Vecrīga)

  • Must-see attractions:
    • The House of the Blackheads (now a museum)
    • Riga Cathedral
    • St. Peter’s Church
    • The Swedish Gate (Swedish House)
  • Walking tour: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and alleys of Old Town, taking in the stunning architecture and quaint shops.

Central Market (Centrāltirgus)

  • Fresh produce and souvenirs:
    • Fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and seafood
    • Traditional Latvian crafts and souvenirs

Art Nouveau District (Jaunkalku iela, Alberta iela, Strēlnieku iela)

  • Must-see attractions:
    • The House of Three Suns (now a museum)
    • The House of the Architect
    • The House with the Sunflowers

Bastei Park and Riverfront

  • Scenic views and activities:
    • Stroll along the banks of the Daugava River
    • Take in the stunning views of the city skyline
    • Rent a boat or take a guided tour

Activities

Day Trips

  • Must-visit destinations: Gauja National Park, Sigulda Castle, and Kemeri National Park
  • Guided tours: Book a guided tour to explore these natural wonders with an expert guide

Cultural Events

  • Music festivals:
    • The Baltic Way Music Festival (summer)
    • The Riga Summer Music Festival (summer)
  • Food and drink events:
    • The Latvian Beer Festival (spring)
    • The Art Nouveau Café Festival (summer)

Outdoor Activities

  • Boat tours: Rent a boat or take a guided tour to explore the Daugava River
  • Walking tours: Join a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and learn about the city’s history

Where to Eat

Traditional Latvian Cuisine

  • Must-try dishes:
    • Aukstā kāja (Latvian potato pancake)
    • Skābeņu zupa (sour soup with meat or fish)
    • Kļava (Latvian rye bread)

International Cuisine

  • Must-visit restaurants:
    • The Grand Hotel’s restaurant (fine dining)
    • The Riga Central Market’s food stalls (fresh produce and traditional snacks)
    • The Old Town’s bars and cafes (wide selection of international cuisine)

Where to Stay

Luxury Accommodations

  • Must-visit hotels:
    • The Grand Hotel (5-star hotel in the heart of Old Town)
    • The Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel (5-star hotel with stunning views)
    • The Pullman Riga Old Town Centre (5-star hotel with modern amenities)

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostels and guesthouses:
    • The Old Town’s hostels and guesthouses (affordable options for backpackers)
    • The Central Market’s guesthouses (budget-friendly options near the market)

Transportation

Getting Around

  • Public transportation:
    • Bus routes covering the entire city
    • Tram lines connecting major attractions
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services:
    • Available throughout the city
    • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services for a safe and reliable journey

Airport Transfers

  • Getting to and from Riga International Airport (RIX):
    • Bus transfers available to and from the airport
    • Taxi services available 24/7

Tips and Essentials

Language

  • Must-know phrases:
    • Hello: Sveiki (pronounced “svey-ki”)
    • Thank you: Paldies (pronounced “paw-dees”)
    • Excuse me: Atvainojieties (pronounced “ah-t-vay-noh-yet-eets”)

Currency

  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Payment methods:
    • Credit cards widely accepted
    • Cash and mobile payments also available

Weather

  • Seasonal weather patterns:
    • Summer: Warm temperatures (up to 25°C) and long days
    • Winter: Cold temperatures (down to -10°C) and short days
    • Spring and autumn: Mild temperatures (around 15-20°C) and moderate rainfall

Safety

  • Must-know safety tips:
    • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas
    • Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit streets
    • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services

Bonus Tips and Secrets

Hidden Gems

  • Discover the city’s hidden gems:
    • Visit the Cat House (a quirky museum for cat lovers)
    • Explore the abandoned buildings of Old Town (a photographer’s paradise)

Local Favorites

  • Must-visit local favorites:
    • The Riga Central Market’s food stalls (fresh produce and traditional snacks)
    • The Art Nouveau Café Festival (summer event featuring live music and delicious food)

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you discover the beauty and charm of Riga, Latvia. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Riga is a must-visit destination for any traveler.