Top 10 Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

Set on the wide banks of the Daugava River, Riga is the historic capital of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltics. The city has long played an important role in the region, and although much of the city was destroyed during World War II before suffering again under the Soviet occupation of Latvia, in recent decades Riga has undergone a renaissance and has bloomed into a burgeoning tourist destination.

The Old Town, rebuilt in the 1990s, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a glorious selection of Art Nouveau architecture and grandiose buildings that reflect the city’s long heritage. There are wonderful art galleries, intriguing museums and plenty of cultural spots to explore in the city.

To inspire you to book a holiday in Latvia, and travel to the capital city, here are our top 10 things to do in Riga.

1. Walk Through the Historic Streets of the Old Town

The highlight of any Riga city break is the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. The city can trace its origins back centuries and, over time, influences from across the Baltics, Scandinavia, Germany and Russia have all merged to create the unique cityscape you find today.

Although the Old Town was ruined by the conflicts of the 20^th century, since Latvian independence in the 1990s it’s seen a huge resurgence and rebuilding process that has brought the colourful and unique streets back to life.

The best way to explore is on foot, strolling through the narrow cobbled alleyways and across the wide squares. Admire the wonderful architecture, the historic castle and churches, and stop off in one of the many local cafes or restaurants to enjoy some great Latvian cuisine.

2. Visit the Iconic House of the Blackheads

The House of the Blackheads is the most iconic and easily recognisable building in Riga. Found in the Old Town, it dates far back to the medieval era and is believed to have first been constructed in the 14^th century by rich and successful merchants.

The building is built in a distinctive style, with many beautiful sculptures and decorations found on the outside. Unfortunately, the House of the Blackheads was destroyed in World War II, but the current reconstruction is faithful to the original and a must-visit sight in Riga.

3. Admire the Art Nouveau Architecture

In the early 1900s, Art Nouveau architecture became all the range in Riga, and today many of the most beautiful buildings in the city are built in this unique style. Using intricate designs, classical sculptures, colourful facades and even gargoyles, the style spread across the city as Riga grew and expanded.

The best street to discover Art Nouveau and to begin to understand why it became so popular is Albert Street. Just outside the Old Town, this grand road embellishes the architectural techniques of the style to an unprecedented level.

4. Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

The Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation is the best place in the city to get further acquainted with the compelling history of the Latvian capital.

This excellent museum actually dates back to the 18^th century and is the oldest such establishment in the country.

Inside, you can find a historic curation of exhibits that tell the tale of the city through the ages.

5. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Another intriguing, although somewhat sombre, museum to visit in Riga is the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. Established after independence in 1993, this humbling exhibition will help you to understand the modern Latvian character, as it takes visitors through the series of somewhat brutal occupations the country endured in the 20^th century.

Displays, exhibits, and first-hand accounts show how Latvia was first occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940 and was then invaded by Nazi Germany in 1941, before being again occupied by the Soviet Union from 1944 until 1991.

6. Latvian National Museum of Art

The impressive Latvian National Museum of Art is a great place to explore for anyone with even a fleeting interest in learning more about the nation’s cultural side.

The museum is home to thousands of pieces of artwork from across the Baltics, spread across several galleries and exhibitions that take visitors through the last few centuries of cultural developments in the region.

7. Explore Riga’s Cathedrals and Churches

Riga is home to countless impressive cathedrals and churches, and you can see spires and belfries dominating the skyline across the city. The imposing Riga Cathedral is one of the most dramatic, found in the heart of the Old Town. Dating back centuries, it’s one of the oldest churches in Europe.

You can also find the golden designs and domes of Russian Orthodox Cathedrals, while St Peter’s Church, with its unique and towering spires, is certainly worth calling into as well.

8. Shop at the Riga Central Market

The vast Riga Central Market is one of the city’s most popular local attractions. Immerse yourself in the huge array of stalls and shops within this enormous marketplace.

Try the local delicacies, sample some unique Latvian snacks, or purchase a few great souvenirs to take home with you.

9. Enjoy a Performance at the Latvian National Opera

Culture lovers will certainly want to enjoy a performance at the Latvian National Opera while they are visiting Riga. Housed in a neoclassical, 19^th century building the opera hosts hundreds of performances throughout the year.

Enjoy a fine evening of refined entertainment at the most historic national opera in the Baltics, but make sure to secure your tickets in advance, as it’s one of the most popular things to do in Riga.

10. The Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

Escape the city centre and head out into the countryside to visit the peaceful surroundings of the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum. Found just a thirty-minute drive away from Riga, this excellent outdoor museum is located on the shores of the beautiful Lake Jugla.

The museum takes you through the cultural history of Latvia, as you can explore houses and homesteads that were used by people through different centuries and in different regions across the country.

If you’re inspired to visit Riga, the historic capital of Latvia, then contact Baltic Travel Company to find out more about our great city breaks.