Outer East Bank Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get to Outer East Bank in Riga, Latvia. Learn about the local culture, food, and customs while staying safe and healthy on your trip.


Introduction to Outer East Bank

Outer East Bank is a district located in the eastern part of Riga, the capital city of Latvia in the Baltic states of Europe. This picturesque area is known for its green spaces, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture. The district is home to many museums, parks, and markets, making it a popular tourist destination.

Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities will love Outer East Bank. The district is surrounded by beautiful forests, lakes, and rivers, and offers many opportunities for hiking and biking. Visitors will also enjoy exploring the local food and drink scene, which features traditional Latvian dishes and locally brewed beers.

List of Places to Visit in Outer East Bank

There are many places to see and things to do in Outer East Bank. Here is a comprehensive list of the most popular attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum
  • Riga Motor Museum
  • Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
  • Art Museum Riga Bourse
  • Kipsala International Exhibition Centre

Natural Attractions of Outer East Bank: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mezaparks
  • Baltezers Lake
  • Jugla Lake Nature Trails
  • Riga Zoo
  • Riga Botanical Garden

Hiking/Biking Routes of Outer East Bank

Outer East Bank offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, including several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Jugla Lake Nature Trails
  • Mezaparks Trails
  • Ziedondarzs Forest Trail
  • Riga Sea Shore Nature Trail

Best Things to Do in Outer East Bank: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
  • Visit the Riga Central Market
  • Take a Boat Tour on the Daugava River
  • Explore the Local Breweries with a Beer Tour
  • Take a Segway Tour of the District

Week-Long Itinerary for Outer East Bank

A week-long itinerary for Outer East Bank might look something like this:

  • Day 1 - Explore Mezaparks and Riga Zoo
  • Day 2 - Visit the Riga Motor Museum and Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum
  • Day 3 - Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Riga
  • Day 4 - Bike the Jugla Lake Nature Trails and Ziedondarzs Forest Trail
  • Day 5 - Take a Boat Tour on the Daugava River
  • Day 6 - Visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum and the Art Museum Riga Bourse
  • Day 7 - Visit the Riga Central Market and relax in one of the local parks

Food and Drink Scene of Outer East Bank

Latvian cuisine is characterized by hearty meat dishes, such as pork and beef, along with hearty soups and stews. Here are some of the must-try dishes when visiting Outer East Bank:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grey Peas and Bacon
  • Latvian Pork or Beef Stew
  • Sklandrausis (a traditional Latvian pie)
  • Cepelini (potato dumplings filled with meat or cheese)
  • Black Bread

Local Beverages

  • Latvian Beer
  • Riga Black Balsam (a traditional herbal liqueur)
  • Riga Sprats (smoked Baltic herring)

Where to Stay in Outer East Bank: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Some of the best places to stay in Outer East Bank include:

  • SemaraH Hotel Lielupe Spa & Conferences
  • Rixwell Elefant Hotel
  • Riga Islande Hotel
  • Rixwell Irina Hotel
  • Tudor Hotel

What to Buy in Outer East Bank: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Outer East Bank, consider purchasing some of the following souvenirs and local products:

  • Amber Jewellery
  • Linen Products
  • Traditional Woven Mittens
  • Handmade Riga Black Balsam
  • Woodcrafts

Local Culture and Customs of Outer East Bank

Latvians are known for their love of music and dance, which is reflected in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Visitors to Outer East Bank should also be aware of the country’s traditional pagan customs, many of which are celebrated during the summer solstice.

Best Time to Visit Outer East Bank

The best time to visit Outer East Bank is during the summer months, between June and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the many parks and outdoor attractions are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Outer East Bank

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Outer East Bank:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try traditional Latvian dishes and drinks
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities in the district’s many parks and forests

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places
  • Ignore signs or rules posted in public places
  • Rely solely on public transportation

Safety and Health

When visiting Outer East Bank, it’s important to take certain precautions to stay safe and healthy:

Safety in Outer East Bank

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you
  • Be aware of pickpockets and other types of petty crime in crowded areas
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • Follow rules and regulations in public places to avoid accidents or injury

Health in Outer East Bank

  • Drink bottled water to avoid stomach problems
  • Use insect repellent to avoid tick bites during outdoor activities
  • Bring any necessary medication with you
  • Be aware of the potential for air pollution and take necessary precautions

Getting to Outer East Bank: Transportation Options and Logistics

Outer East Bank is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options:

Airports Near Outer East Bank

  • Riga International Airport

Bus Stations Near Outer East Bank

  • Riga Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxi
  • Car rental

How to Get Around in Outer East Bank

The best way to get around Outer East Bank is by public transportation, such as buses and trams. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Outer East Bank: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Latvia and the surrounding area, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Sigulda
  • Jurmala
  • Saulkrasti
  • Cesis

Conclusion

Outer East Bank is a beautiful and vibrant district of Riga, Latvia that offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, there’s something for everyone in Outer East Bank.

Buildings at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum Buildings at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum The twin watertowers The twin watertowers The Catholic St. Francis church The Catholic St. Francis church A home game of Dinamo Riga at the Arena Riga A home game of Dinamo Riga at the Arena Riga Villas in Mežaparks Villas in Mežaparks