Riga Travel Guide

Introduction

Riga, the capital and largest city of Latvia, is situated on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the River Daugava. Founded in 1201, it is a city rich in history and architectural diversity. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, Art Nouveau architecture, and cobblestone streets. Notable landmarks include the Riga Cathedral, the House of the Blackheads, and St. Peter's Church. As Latvia's cultural, educational, and economic hub, Riga offers numerous museums, such as the Latvian National Museum of Art and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. The city is divided into two parts by the Daugava River and is home to several parks and green spaces, including Bastejkalna Park and Mežaparks. Riga's Central Market, housed in converted Zeppelin hangars, is one of Europe's largest markets and a popular attraction. The city has a well-developed public transport system and serves as a major transportation hub for the Baltic region.

Interesting Facts about Riga

• Riga, the capital of Latvia, is home to nearly a third of the country's population and boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1201.
• The Historic Centre of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its exceptional Art Nouveau and medieval architecture.
• Riga was a key member of the Hanseatic League, playing a significant role in trade between Europe and Russia during the 13th to 15th centuries.
• The city hosted major international events such as the 2006 NATO Summit and the Eurovision Song Contest in 2003.
• Riga is famous for having the largest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in the world, with over 300 structures showcasing this architectural style.
• The Riga Central Market is one of Europe's largest and oldest, housed in repurposed Zeppelin hangars.
• Riga was declared the European Capital of Culture in 2014, highlighting its cultural and artistic significance.
• The city is home to the European Union's office of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC).
• Riga's Old Town features iconic landmarks like Riga Cathedral and the Three Brothers houses, reflecting its medieval heritage.
• In 2017, Riga was named the European Region of Gastronomy, celebrating its culinary traditions.

History

Founded in 1201 by German bishop Albert, the city quickly became a significant centre of trade and culture in the Baltic region. As a member of the Hanseatic League, Riga flourished as a vital port connecting Eastern and Western Europe. The city's strategic location at the mouth of the Daugava River contributed to its rapid growth and prosperity, attracting merchants from across the continent.

Throughout its history, Riga has been subject to various foreign powers, each leaving its mark on the city's architecture and culture. The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Sweden, and Russia all ruled Riga at different times, contributing to its diverse heritage. The city's Old Town, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases this eclectic history with its mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings. Particularly noteworthy is Riga's collection of Art Nouveau architecture, considered one of the finest in Europe, with over 800 buildings adorned in this distinctive early 20th-century style.

Riga played a crucial role in Latvia's path to independence in the 20th century. After a brief period of independence following World War I, the city endured Soviet and Nazi occupations during World War II, followed by nearly five decades of Soviet rule. The late 1980s saw Riga at the forefront of the movement for Latvian independence, culminating in the restoration of Latvia's sovereignty in 1991. Since then, Riga has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing its historical roots while emerging as a modern European capital. Today, visitors to Riga can explore its medieval Old Town, admire its stunning Art Nouveau district, and experience a vibrant cultural scene that reflects both its rich past and dynamic present.

Main Attractions

Old Town (Vecrīga)

Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historical heart of the city. Its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture offer a glimpse into Latvia's rich past. The area is compact and easily walkable, with numerous landmarks, restaurants, and shops within close proximity. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys, admire the well-preserved buildings, and soak in the atmosphere of centuries past.

The Old Town is particularly charming in the evening when the streets are illuminated, and the cafes and bars come to life. Many guided tours are available, offering insights into the area's history and architecture. During summer, the squares often host outdoor concerts and markets, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Dome Square (Doma laukums)

Dome Square is the largest square in Old Town and serves as a central meeting point. It's surrounded by seven streets and is home to several architectural treasures, including golden-roofed churches. The square takes its name from the nearby Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms).

Throughout the year, Dome Square hosts various events and markets. During Christmas, it's the site of a popular holiday market featuring local crafts and traditional foods. In summer, outdoor cafes and restaurants set up terraces in the square, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere while dining al fresco.

Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms)

Riga Cathedral is the largest medieval church in the Baltic states, dating back to the 13th century. It features a blend of Romanesque, early Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles. The cathedral's interior is notable for its pipe organ, one of the largest in Europe, which was installed in 1884.

The cathedral hosts both religious services and concerts, particularly organ recitals. Visitors can explore the cathedral's cloisters, which house a museum detailing the building's history. The cathedral's spire offers panoramic views of the Old Town, though access may be restricted during renovations.

The Three Brothers (Trīs brāļi)

The Three Brothers are a trio of ancient buildings that demonstrate the evolution of Riga's architectural styles over centuries. The oldest dates back to the 15th century, while the others are from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Each building represents a different architectural period: the oldest showcases Gothic features, the middle one Renaissance elements, and the newest Baroque characteristics. Today, the buildings house the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the State Inspection for Heritage Protection.

St. Jacob's Catholic Cathderal (Sv. Jēkaba katedrāle)

St. Jacob's Church is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church's cardinal in Latvia. The church dates back to 1225, making it one of the oldest buildings in Riga. Its tower, with a distinctive copper spire, is a notable part of Riga's skyline.

The church interior features beautiful stained glass windows and a mix of Gothic and Baroque elements. Regular masses are held here, and the church is also used for concerts due to its excellent acoustics.

Riga Castle (Rīgas pils)

Dating back to the 14th century, Riga Castle now serves as the official residence of the President of Latvia. It has undergone numerous reconstructions, blending various architectural styles. The castle is situated on the banks of the Daugava River, offering picturesque views.

While the interior is not generally open to the public, visitors can admire the exterior and the changing of the guard ceremony. The castle also houses several museums, including the National History Museum of Latvia. The area around the castle, known as the Citadel, offers pleasant walks with views of the river.

Livu Square (Līvu laukums)

Livu Square is a popular gathering place surrounded by colourful buildings and outdoor cafes. It's a vibrant area, particularly in summer when the cafes set up outdoor seating. The square is home to several notable buildings, including the Great Guild Hall and the Small Guild Hall.

Street performers often entertain visitors in the square, and it's a common starting point for walking tours of the Old Town. During winter, the square hosts part of Riga's Christmas market. The Cat House (Kaķu nams), a building famous for its cat sculptures, is located nearby.

Rozena Street (Rozena iela)

Rozena Street is the narrowest street in Riga, where visitors can touch opposite walls simultaneously. It's only about two metres wide at its narrowest point. The street offers a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into medieval urban planning.

Despite its narrow width, the street is home to several cafes and shops. It connects two larger streets in the Old Town and is often included in walking tours of the area.

House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams)

Originally built in the 14th century and reconstructed after World War II, the House of the Blackheads showcases Riga's architectural heritage. It was once a meeting place for unmarried merchants, known as the Brotherhood of Blackheads.

The building's facade is richly decorated with sculptures and reliefs. Inside, visitors can explore recreated historical interiors and learn about the building's history through exhibitions. The square in front of the building often hosts concerts and events, particularly during summer.

Swedish Gate (Zviedru vārti)

The Swedish Gate is the only remaining gate from the old city walls, built in 1698 during Swedish rule. It's located in the old city wall between two houses and was part of the city's fortifications. According to legend, a superstition held that passing under the gate would bring good luck.

The gate offers a picturesque archway and is a popular spot for photos. The surrounding area includes several restaurants and cafes, making it a pleasant place to pause during a walk through the Old Town.

St. Peter's Church (Sv. Pētera baznīca)

St. Peter's Church is a 13th-century Gothic church with a 123-metre-high tower. Visitors can ascend to the viewing platform via elevator for panoramic views of Riga. The church has been rebuilt several times, with the current tower dating from 1973.

Inside, the church hosts art exhibitions and concerts. The altar and pulpit are notable examples of Baroque wood carving. Tickets to ascend the tower cost around 9 euros, and it's advisable to check opening times as they can vary seasonally.

Powder Tower (Pulvertornis)

The Powder Tower is the sole remaining tower from Riga's original city walls. It now houses part of the Latvian War Museum. The tower dates back to the 14th century and was used to store gunpowder, hence its name.

Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for views over the city. The museum inside offers exhibits on Latvia's military history. The area around the tower includes a small park and is connected to the Swedish Gate by a section of the old city wall.

Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis)

The Freedom Monument is a 42.7-metre tall granite and copper monument symbolising Latvia's struggle for independence. It depicts a woman holding three stars representing unity, independence, and freedom. The monument was unveiled in 1935 and has been a focal point for national gatherings and commemorations ever since.

At the base of the monument are sculptural groups representing Latvian culture and history. An honour guard stands at the monument during daylight hours, with a changing of the guard ceremony every hour. The surrounding area, known as Brīvības bulvāris, is a popular meeting place and starting point for exploring the city.

Art Nouveau District

Riga boasts a significant collection of Art Nouveau buildings, particularly along Albert Street (Alberta iela). The city has over 800 Art Nouveau buildings, making it one of the world's capitals of this architectural style. The buildings feature ornate facades with floral designs, mythological creatures, and geometric patterns.

Notable examples include buildings designed by Mikhail Eisenstein at Alberta iela 2a, 4, and 6. The Riga Art Nouveau Museum, located in an apartment where a local architect once lived, offers insights into the lifestyle of the early 20th century. Guided tours of the district are available, providing detailed information about the buildings and their history.

Top Museums

Latvian National Museum of Art

The Latvian National Museum of Art, located in a stunning building designed by Wilhelm Neumann in 1905, houses the largest collection of national art in Latvia. With over 52,000 works spanning from the mid-18th century to the present day, it offers a comprehensive look at the development of Latvian art.

Collections and Exhibitions

The museum features several permanent exhibitions that showcase:

• Works from prominent Latvian artists across various movements
• A special focus on art from the Soviet era
• Temporary exhibitions highlighting both historical and contemporary art from Latvia and abroad

The museum underwent a major reconstruction between 2010 and 2015, during which the total size of the building was doubled. This expansion has allowed for more exhibition space and improved facilities for visitors.

Notable Works

Some of the museum's most famous pieces include:

• "Young Gypsy Woman" by Kārlis Hūns (1870)
• "After Church" by Janis Rozentāls (1894)
• "Princess with a Monkey" by Janis Rozentāls (1913)
• "Refugees" by Jēkabs Kazaks (1917)

The museum also engages in research projects focusing on themes such as sound art, visual studies, and female artists in Latvian history. It offers workshops, lectures, and guided tours aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of artistic practices.

Riga Motor Museum

The Riga Motor Museum, established in 1989, is the largest antique vehicle museum in the Baltics. Located just outside Riga, it offers an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and unique exhibits that celebrate the evolution of transportation and engineering.

Museum Layout

The museum is spread across three floors, covering over 4,000 square metres. It showcases more than 100 unique cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, presented as an interactive story about significant events in automotive history.

Key Exhibits

Visitors can explore:

• Soviet Classics: Rare vehicles from the Soviet era, including limousines once used by top officials
• Luxury and Sports Cars: Vintage Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bugattis that showcase the pinnacle of design and performance
• Unique Vehicles: Experimental cars and prototypes that highlight engineering ingenuity

The museum underwent a major renovation in 2016, combining modern design with interactive exhibits to create an engaging visitor experience. The building itself is a striking example of contemporary architecture, blending innovative design with functional exhibition spaces.

Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

One of the oldest open-air museums in Europe, the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum is situated on the banks of Lake Jugla, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Riga. Established before World War II, many of its exhibition objects are in very good condition.

Museum Layout

The museum features 118 historical buildings from all four of Latvia's provinces – Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale, and Latgale. These structures range in age from the 17th century up to the 1930s.

Key Attractions

Visitors can:

• Explore traditional farmsteads and dwelling houses of farmers, craftsmen, and fishermen
• View everyday objects used during different historical periods
• See how people historically decorated their properties and made a living
• Get acquainted with the farmsteads of the Russian Old Believers in Latgale and the coastal fishing villages of the Liivs in Kurzeme
• View historical churches of various faiths present in Latvia

Interactive Experiences

The museum offers:

• Demonstrations by traditional craftsmen
• Opportunities to try molding pottery, weaving baskets, making honey, or forging coins
• Participation in traditional Latvian games
• Annual festivals celebrating Latvian traditions
• A playground for children
• Cross-country skiing and sled rides in winter

Art Museum Riga Bourse

Housed in a magnificent Venetian Renaissance-style building, the Art Museum Riga Bourse holds the largest collection of foreign art in the Baltic States. The building, designed by Harald Julius von Bosse, was constructed from 1852 to 1855 and is an architectural monument of national importance.

Museum Layout

After extensive reconstruction, the museum now features six floors housing modern exhibition halls, various expositions, a "Small School" for children, seminar and conference rooms, a museum shop, and a café.

Key Collections

The museum's collections include:

• Western European Paintings: The 4th floor Painting Gallery showcases classical exhibitions of Western European art, with a focus on Dutch, Flemish, German, French, and Italian works.
• Porcelain Collection: The Western Gallery features an impressive collection of Western European porcelain from the 18th-20th centuries.
• Oriental Art: The 3rd floor houses a major collection of art from the Far East and Middle East, including traditional art from Japan, China, India, and Indonesia.
• Ancient Egyptian Art: The museum boasts the only Egyptian mummy in a wooden sarcophagus in Latvia.

The museum offers audio guide services in Latvian, English, and Russian, as well as guided tours in multiple languages.

Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

As one of the oldest museums in Europe, the Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation offers a comprehensive overview of Riga's past. Located in the Riga Dome complex, a noteworthy 13th-20th century architectural monument, the museum's collection originated from the personal collection of Riga doctor Nikolas von Himzel in the 18th century.

Exhibitions

The museum's exhibitions showcase the development of Riga from:

• Ancient villages to the ancient port in the 12th-13th centuries
• The period of the Hansa League in the 13th-16th centuries
• Polish and Swedish rule in the 16th-17th centuries
• Life during the first period of Latvian independence from 1918-1940

Collections

The museum houses an extensive collection including:

• Ancient engravings with views of Riga
• Maps and plans
• Silver and porcelain items
• Ship models and navigational instruments
• Objects for everyday use, clothing, and decorative items

In total, the museum's collections comprise over half a million items, providing a rich tapestry of Riga's history from the earliest times to the present day.

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Established in 1993, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia focuses on Latvia's history during the periods of Soviet and Nazi occupations from 1940 to 1991. Located in central Riga, the museum aims to identify, research, and commemorate the wrongdoings committed by foreign occupation powers against the state and people of Latvia.

Key Themes

The museum's exhibits cover:

• Personal stories from Estonians affected by these occupations
• The journey towards independence following decades of foreign rule
• Interactive displays that encourage visitors to reflect on themes such as freedom and justice

Collections

The museum's collection includes:

• Documents and photos
• Written and oral material evidence
• Artefacts and keepsakes
• An Audio-Visual Archive containing testimonies about the occupation period

The museum has also produced nine documentaries based on eyewitness stories, which can be purchased or ordered through their online shop.

Pauls Stradins Museum of the History of Medicine

One of the largest medical museums in the world, the Pauls Stradins Museum of the History of Medicine presents the development of medicine and pharmacology from ancient times to the present. The museum is housed in a building designed in 1875 in neo-Renaissance style and contains over 203,000 exhibits.

Key Exhibits

Visitors can explore:

• A medieval monastery hospital and pharmacy
• A medieval town designed by Professor Pauls Stradiņš
• Exhibits on common diseases and their treatments throughout history
• A collection of objects by microbiologist and Nobel Prize winner Ilya Mechnikov
• The result of a Soviet doctor's transplantation experiment - the "two-headed dog"

The museum offers a journey through various stages of medical history, allowing visitors to learn about the progression of healthcare practices up to the mid-20th century.

Latvian National Museum of Natural History

The Latvian National Museum of Natural History houses various natural history collections containing 183,000 specimens related to the nature of Latvia and other regions of the world. The museum operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment and features six exposition units, a collections unit, an exhibitions and information unit, a taxidermy lab, a library, and a photography lab.

Key Features

The museum offers:

• Modern and interactive displays
• A vast range of educational programmes
• Diverse exhibitions and environmental education events for families, schoolchildren, and the general public

Notable Exhibits

Visitors can see:

• 360 million-year-old armoured fish fossils and dinosaur eggs
• An earthquake simulation
• Exhibits showcasing the value of Latvian clay
• A magnified diamond
• Record-breaking insects and marine life specimens
• Latvia's largest mammal and the world's smallest armadillo
• Mushroom models and bird collections

The museum aims to raise awareness about the need to protect nature and use its resources responsibly.

Local Cuisine

Visitors can savour hearty dishes that reflect Latvia's agricultural roots and coastal influences. A must-try local specialty is Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, a traditional stew made with grey peas and bacon, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. Seafood enthusiasts will relish the smoked fish, a popular delicacy in this Baltic city. For a comforting meal, indulge in Frikadeļu zupa, a warming meatball soup perfect for chilly days. Don't miss the chance to taste Sklandrausis, a unique Latvian tart filled with a mixture of vegetables, fruit, and cream. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try Rupjmaizes kārtojums, a layered dessert made with rye bread, whipped cream, and jam. Wash it all down with a sip of Riga Black Balsam, the national liquor with a distinctive herbal flavour. With its blend of traditional fare and modern culinary innovations, Riga's food scene offers a delightful journey through Latvian flavours.

Shopping

The city centre houses several large shopping malls, including Galleria Riga, Origo Shopping Center, and Galerija Centrs, offering a mix of international and local brands. For a more authentic experience, the Central Market, housed in former zeppelin hangars, provides fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs. The Old Town features artisan shops selling Latvian handicrafts, amber jewellery, and traditional textiles. Luxury shoppers can explore high-end boutiques along streets like Terbatas and Valņu. For unique finds, the Kalnciema fair, held every Saturday, showcases products from local artists and craftsmen. Shopping hours typically run from 09:00 to 17:00, with many larger stores and supermarkets open until 21:00 or 22:00. Visitors should note that prices for global brands in Riga may be higher than in other European cities.

Riga Central Market (Centrāltirgus)

Riga Central Market is one of Europe's largest markets, housed in old German Zeppelin hangars. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and local specialities. The market consists of five pavilions and an outdoor area, covering a total of 72,300 square metres.

Each pavilion specialises in different products: one for meat, another for dairy, others for fish, vegetables, and groceries. The market is not just a place to shop but also a cultural experience, offering insights into local culinary traditions. It's busiest in the mornings and on weekends, with over 80,000 visitors daily.

Nature in and around Riga

Riga and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of natural attractions for visitors to explore. Within the city, Kronvalda Park provides a green oasis with its gardens and walking paths. Just 40 minutes from Riga, Kemeri National Park boasts diverse landscapes including beaches, forests, and the Great Kemeri Bog, accessible via wooden boardwalks. The nearby Gauja National Park, often called "Latvia's Switzerland", features stunning scenery with forests, sandstone cliffs, and medieval castles. Nature enthusiasts can visit Slitere National Park for its pristine hiking trails and the historic Šlītere Lighthouse. Closer to the city, the Nature Park Piejura offers trails showcasing unique ecosystems, including the Gauja River, beaches, and coastal lakes. For water activities, the Daugava River flows through Riga, while the Baltic Sea coast is easily accessible from the city. These natural spaces provide ample opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and experiencing Latvia's diverse flora and fauna.

Riga Zoo (Rīgas Zooloģiskais dārzs)

Riga Zoo is the oldest zoo in the Baltic States, home to about 400 species and 3,000 animals. It's located in the Mežaparks district, about 5 km from the city centre. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, participating in several breeding programs for endangered species.

Notable exhibits include the Tropical House, the Giraffe House, and the Hippo House. The zoo also features a children's area with domesticated animals. It's open year-round, with seasonal variations in opening hours and activities.

Vērmane Garden (Vērmanes dārzs)

Vērmane Garden is the oldest public garden in Riga, offering a peaceful retreat in the city centre. The park was established in 1817 and is named after Anna Gertrud Wöhrmann, who donated the land to the city.

The garden features various sculptures, fountains, and a bandstand where concerts are held during summer. It's a popular spot for locals to relax, play chess, or enjoy outdoor cafes. The park is particularly beautiful in spring when its many flower beds are in bloom.

Getting There & Around

Riga is easily accessible from various locations, particularly through its main gateway, Riga International Airport. The airport is located just 10 kilometres from the city centre and offers several transport options for visitors. The most economical choice is Bus No. 22, which runs frequently and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the Old Town area, with tickets available for purchase from the driver or at kiosks for a reduced price. For a quicker and more convenient transfer, taxis are readily available at the airport, providing door-to-door service to the city centre in around 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares typically ranging from €18 to €35. Additionally, long-distance buses connect Riga to other European cities, making it easy for travellers to explore the region. Once in Riga, the city's compact layout allows for easy exploration on foot or by using its efficient public transport system.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Riga is during the summer months, from June to August, when the city enjoys pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C. This period offers long days with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for exploring Riga's historic sites and enjoying outdoor events like open-air concerts and festivals. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, which means higher prices for accommodations and flights. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October are excellent alternatives. These periods provide decent weather with fewer crowds and lower costs, making them perfect for appreciating Riga's cultural and natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of peak season.