7 days in Riga, Latvia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Allow me to introduce you to Riga, the intriguing capital of Latvia. This fascinating gem on the Baltic coast boasts a rich history seen in its well-preserved medieval Old Town, filled with winding cobblestone streets, architectural marvels, and vibrant terrace cafes. The city is a cultural melting pot where you can get lost in the beauty of the Art Nouveau district or celebrate life with the locals during their exciting annual festivals. From friendly people to the hearty Latvian cuisine, Riga is a destination that shouldn’t be missed.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Riga
Affordable Prices: Your wallet will love Riga as it is comparatively affordable compared to other European capitals.
UNESCO Heritage site: Riga is an architectural paradise with its Old Town being a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Language Barrier: Not everyone speaks English, but most young people and those in the service industry do.
People who love historic architecture, vibrant atmospheres, and those who are budget-conscious travelers will particularly enjoy the charm of Riga.
What to Bring with You
When packing for Riga, make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella for occasional rain, and layers for unpredictable weather. Also, a universal plug adaptor and a backup power source for your gadgets will come in handy.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Riga
The ideal time to visit Riga would be from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the days are long – perfect for soaking in the city’s beauty. However, if you’re looking for a magical winter wonderland experience, Riga’s Christmas markets in December are a must-see.
How to Get into Riga
1. By Air: Riga International Airport (RIX) is the main point of entry. It’s well connected with numerous European cities through both budget and non-budget airlines. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public bus to reach the city center.
2. By Bus: Several bus operators like Lux Express and Ecolines connect Riga to neighboring countries such as Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland. Buses arrive at Riga International Coach Terminal, which is a short walk from the Old Town.
3. By Train: International trains connect Riga to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Minsk. Riga Central Railway Station is situated close to the Old Town and is easily accessible by public transport or on foot.
7 day city guide trip to Riga, Latvia
Day 1 – Exploring the Old Town
Start your trip by exploring the charming Old Town of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the iconic House of Blackheads, St. Peter’s Church, and the impressive Riga Cathedral. For lunch, head to Lido, a local chain restaurant with authentic Latvian cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Latvian National Opera or take a stroll along the Daugava river.
Day 2 – Art and Culture
Visit the Art Nouveau district to witness the stunning architecture, then head to the Latvian National Museum of Art to explore the country’s art history. In the evening, attend a traditional Latvian folk dance show at the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum.
Day 3 – Day trip to Jurmala
Take a break from the city and head to the charming seaside resort town of Jurmala. Stroll along the stunning white sand beaches, admire the wooden architecture, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants.
Day 4 – Central Market and Riga Motor Museum
Start your day by exploring Riga Central Market, one of the largest markets in Europe. Browse the stalls selling fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the Riga Motor Museum to see the impressive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.
Day 5 – Day trip to Sigulda
Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Sigulda, located in the Gauja National Park. Admire the stunning views from the Turaida Castle, ride the cable car over the Gauja River, and try the famous bobsleigh track.
Day 6 – Parks and Gardens
Visit the impressive Vermanes Garden, a green oasis in the center of the city. Then head to the nearby Kronvalda Park, where you can rent a paddleboat and enjoy the lake. Finish your day with a sunset picnic in the stunning Bastejkalna Park.
Day 7 – Latvian Food and Drink
Spend your last day indulging in the local cuisine and drinks. Visit the Riga Black Balsam Museum and learn about the famous Latvian herbal liqueur, then head to Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs for a traditional Latvian meal and live music.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Riga
If you have more time to explore Latvia, head to the medieval town of Cesis, located about 90 minutes away by car or bus. Admire the Cesis Castle and explore the charming cobbled streets. Alternatively, head to Liepaja, a coastal town with beautiful beaches and a unique Soviet-era military town. Take a tour of the Karosta prison or visit the stunning Holy Trinity Church. Both towns can be reached by bus or car, or you can join a guided tour.