Riga Travel Guide (Riga region/Latvia/Baltic states/Europe)

Introduction to Riga

Welcome to Riga, the capital city of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltic states. Located on the banks of the Daugava River in the Riga region, Riga is a city rich in history and culture, with a vibrant food and drink scene and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. The medieval Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

List of Places to Visit in Riga

No trip to Riga would be complete without visiting the following top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Latvian National Museum of Art: Featuring a collection of Latvian art from the 18th century to the present day.
The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia: Depicting the country’s tumultuous history, particularly during the Soviet occupation from 1940-1991.
The Riga Castle: Formerly the residence of the president of Latvia, now housing the National History Museum of Latvia.

Natural Attractions of Riga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Jurmala Beach: Located just outside of Riga is the golden sand beach of Jurmala, offering stunning sunset views.
Mezaparks: A large park in Riga perfect for hiking and biking, with a lake and plenty of picnic spots.
Kemeri National Park: A stunning national park home to large saltwater marshes, perfect for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Riga

For those interested in hiking or biking, Riga offers plenty of options, including:

Latvian Nature Trails: Offering over 200km of hiking and biking trails throughout Latvia, with a focus on natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Riga Riverside: Biking tour: A guided tour of the riverfront bike paths in Riga, offering stunning views of the city from a different perspective.
Gauja National Park Hike: A guided hike through Gauja National Park, admiring the stunning landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Riga: Activities and Tours

In addition to the top attractions and outdoor adventures, Riga has plenty of unique tours and activities to offer:

The Riga Beer Bike Tour: A fun and unique way to tour the city, with a pedaling bike that offers cold beer on tap.
The Riga Black Balsam Experience: Learn about the history and production of Riga’s famous herbal liqueur, with tastings included.
The Riga Central Market Culinary Tour: A guided tour of the largest market in Europe, showcasing local produce and cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Riga

If you’re planning to spend a week in Riga, consider the following itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Explore the Old Town, including the Dome Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church
2	Visit the Art Nouveau district and the Latvian National Museum of Art
3	Take a day trip to Jurmala Beach
4	Hike or bike in Mezaparks or Kemeri National Park
5	Learn about the occupation of Latvia at the Occupation Museum
6	Take a culinary tour of the Central Market
7	Visit the Riga Castle and National History Museum of Latvia

Food and Drink Scene of Riga

Riga’s food and drink scene is a mix of traditional Latvian cuisine and modern culinary trends, with plenty of options for foodies. Must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

Grey Peas and Bacon: A traditional Latvian dish made with grey peas and diced bacon, typically served with a fried egg.
Janis’ Cheese: A unique local cheese made with caraway seeds and served with honey and nuts.
Rye Bread: A staple of Latvian cuisine, with many variations including sweet and savory.

Local Beverages

Riga Black Balsam: A traditional herbal liqueur made with a secret blend of herbs and spices, typically served neat or in cocktails.
Beer: Latvia boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with many local microbreweries offering unique and flavorful beers.
Birch Juice: A refreshing and healthy beverage made from the sap of birch trees, typically enjoyed in the spring.

Where to Stay in Riga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Riga offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets, including:

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga: A luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town.
Tree House Hostel: A cozy hostel nestled in the charming Old Town, offering affordable dormitory-style accommodations.
Guesthouse Jakob Lenz: A charming guesthouse housed in a historic building, located just a few minutes from the city center.

What to Buy in Riga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, consider the following:

Amber Jewelry: Latvia is known for its high-quality amber, with many shops offering unique handmade jewelry.
Linen Products: Latvia is also known for its high-quality linen products, including tablecloths, napkins, and clothing.
Riga Black Balsam: A bottle of this famous herbal liqueur makes a great gift or souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Riga

Latvia has a rich cultural history, with many traditions still alive today. Some customs to be aware of include:

Midsummer Celebrations: One of the biggest celebrations in Latvia, Midsummer is celebrated on the summer solstice with bonfires, flower wreaths, and traditional foods.
Song and Dance Festival: Held every five years, this festival showcases Latvian music, dance, and folk traditions, with thousands of performers participating.
Sauna Culture: Sauna culture is an important part of Latvian life, with many locals frequenting public saunas or “pirtis” for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Best Time to Visit Riga

The best time to visit Riga is during the summer months of June through August, when temperatures are mild and the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor events. However, spring and fall can also be enjoyable, with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Riga

To make the most of your trip to Riga, consider these do’s and don’ts:

Do:

Do try local beers and Latvian cuisine.
Do take a stroll through the Old Town.
Do visit the Art Nouveau district for stunning architecture.

Don’t:

Don’t drink tap water, as it is not recommended for tourists.
Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.
Don’t miss out on a chance to try the famous Riga Black Balsam.

Safety and Health

Riga is a safe and healthy city for tourists, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Safety in Riga

Use caution when using ATMs or exchanging money, as there are known scams targeting tourists.
Take care when walking alone at night, particularly in unlit areas.
Keep valuables out of sight and secured when walking in crowded areas.

Health in Riga

Tap water is not recommended for tourists, so be sure to drink bottled water.
Tick-borne illnesses are a concern in rural areas, so take precautions if hiking or spending time in nature.
European Union citizens are covered by Latvia’s national health insurance, but non-EU citizens will need to purchase travel insurance.

Getting to Riga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Riga is easily accessible from many major cities in Europe, with several transportation options available:

Airports Near Riga

Riga International Airport: The largest airport in Latvia, located just outside of Riga’s city center and offering many international flights.

Bus Stations Near Riga

Riga Central Bus Station: Located in the city center and offering many bus routes to destinations throughout Latvia and Europe.

Other Options

Trains: Rail service is available to several cities in Latvia and other European countries from Riga’s central train station.
Ferries: Riga’s port offers ferry service to several destinations throughout Scandinavia and Russia.

How to Get Around in Riga

Riga offers several transportation options for getting around the city:

Public Transportation: Riga has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Riga, but be sure to confirm the price before getting in.
Bike Rental: Several bike rental companies offer a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Riga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, consider taking a day trip or longer excursion to a nearby destination:

Sigulda: A small town located about an hour outside Riga, known for its stunning natural landscapes and medieval castle ruins.
Cesis: A charming and historic town located about two hours outside Riga, featuring a stunning castle and plenty of outdoor activities.
Tallinn: The capital city of neighboring Estonia, located about three hours from Riga and known for its medieval Old Town and vibrant food and drink scene.

Conclusion

Riga is a hidden gem in Europe, offering stunning architecture, rich history and culture, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you can plan your trip with confidence and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.