Riga

Introduction

You will find Riga situated on the Gulf of Riga at the mouth of the Daugava river where it meets the Baltic Sea. Located on a flat and sandy plain, the capital city sits just above sea level.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by noting that while Latvian is the official language, you will find that most residents in the city speak both Latvian and Russian. You can also communicate in English, which is widely spoken by younger people and those in the tourism industry, or in German, which is commonly used by tour guides.

When navigating the city, keep these points in mind:

• The old town and major thoroughfares are considered very safe for your travels.
• Exercise caution in certain western parts of the city and avoid poorer areas with significant Russian populations after dark.
• Be mindful of your surroundings in bars, as high alcohol consumption can lead to common bar fights; remain level-headed and do not escalate any situations.

Getting there

Upon arriving at Riga International Airport, you can reach the old town by taking bus route 22, which operates throughout the day and into the early morning hours. Alternatively, you can choose between several taxi services or use a carsharing app to navigate toward the city center. For those arriving by international bus, frequent connections are available from various European cities, including nearby capitals in Estonia and Lithuania. If traveling by train, you can reach Riga from neighboring countries via regional networks, with the central station providing convenient access to different parts of the city.

If you arrive by car, you will find good road connections across the region, though be mindful of parking fees within the city center. For those arriving by water, both Andrejosta Marina and City Yacht Club provide berths near the old town area, offering convenient access to local attractions.

Getting around

Exploring Vecrīga is best done on foot, but be mindful of the rounded cobblestone streets which can be difficult to navigate without proper footwear. While most roads outside this area are paved with asphalt, some smaller streets remain unpaved and sidewalks are predominantly concrete. During heavy downpours, be aware that the drainage system may cause streets in Vecrīga to flood.

The city-owned Rigas Satiksme company operates a network of trams, buses, and trolleybuses using a unified e-ticket system. Trams are generally the fastest option and typically have the right of way. You can use the Mobilly app to purchase tickets, which are valid for 90 minutes across all transport modes. For those preferring two wheels, self-service bicycles are available at stands across the city through SIXT Latvia, though the cobblestone streets in the downtown area can make for a bumpy ride. Electric scooters are also abundant from April to September as a way to cover short distances. If you choose to use a taxi, booking through mobile apps like Bolt, Panda Taxi, or Red Cab allows you to see rates and destinations in advance; hailing a random taxi on the street may result in less direct routes and higher costs.

Where to stay

You will find the highest concentration of accommodations within the walkable Centra rajons district, which encompasses both the historic Vecrīga old town and the modern-day business district of Centrs. While most major attractions are located here, you can explore outer districts if you prefer to venture beyond the city center.

Your choice of lodging depends on your preferred atmosphere and budget:

• Stay in the eastern half of the old town or near the railway station for budget-friendly options.
• Choose the core of Vecrīga or the area surrounding Esplanade Park in Centrs for upscale hotels.

Food & drink

You can experience a wide range of culinary options in the capital, from hearty Latvian staples featuring beef, pork, fish, and plenty of potato and cabbage to international favorites like sushi. For the most extensive selection of dining establishments, head to the central districts of Vecriga and Centrs. While you can find local restaurant chains throughout the city—such as Lido for traditional meals or Čili Pica for pizza—be cautious when dining in Vecriga, where some tourist-oriented spots may serve smaller portions than advertised.

Your coffee experience will depend on your preference; traditional Latvian black coffee is served strong and unfiltered in small cups, while "white coffee" with milk or cream is an alternative for those used to filtered varieties. If you head out for a drink, the city is a major nightlife destination where bars often stay open later than in other European cities. You can sample Riga Balsam, a local specialty liquor with a unique character, or enjoy the atmosphere of various clubs that differ in style between Latvian and Russian influences.

What to see and do

Explore the historic charm of Vecrīga, a UNESCO-listed Old Town where you can visit the 13th-century House of Blackheads, the reconstructed Town Hall, and the Riga Cathedral. This area also houses several important museums, including the National History Museum of Latvia located in Riga Castle and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. For a look at different architectural styles, head to the modern-day downtown (Centrs) to see the dense cluster of Art Nouveau row houses on Alberta iela or visit the National Museum of Art. If you prefer a different atmosphere, the well-preserved urban districts of Agenskalns and Tornakalns offer a quieter experience, while the peripheral residential areas provide insight into local life through their Soviet-style apartment blocks.

Experience the city's culture by attending performances at the National Opera or the Koncertzāle Ave Sol. You can also enjoy nature in various parks, such as those near the city canal or Mežaparks, which features old villas and a zoo. For a different perspective on the landscape, take a boat ride along the Daugava river or explore the city's Jewish legacy at sites like the Jews in Latvia museum and the Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust museum. If you seek more adventure, the region offers various activities including bobsledding, kayaking, and off-road driving.

• House of Blackheads
• Riga Cathedral
• National History Museum of Latvia
• Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
• Art Nouveau row houses on Alberta iela
• Latvian Academy of Sciences
• Spilve Airport

When to go

You can experience Riga across a variety of seasonal conditions influenced by its coastal location. During the deep winter, you should prepare for cold temperatures and frequent snow cover. As the seasons transition into summer, you will encounter mild weather characterized by regular rainfall.

If you visit during the autumn months, your experience will be shaped by the proximity to the sea, which brings frequent rain and fog to the region.

Three days in Riga

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring Vecrīga. You can navigate the city using local transport options such as trams or choose to travel via a taxi service.

Day two, you can head toward the water to visit Andrejosta Marina or spend time at the City Yacht Club while enjoying the views of the Daugava and the nearby Gulf.

Day three, you can continue your exploration of the city. If you prefer to move around on your own, you can utilize various transportation methods available throughout the area.