Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Lauren Allen
Heading to the Latvian capital and wondering is Riga worth visiting? In this post, I’m going to give you a full low-down on the city and why you absolutely MUST add it to your European bucket list!
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Is Riga worth visiting?
There are so many amazing reasons to visit Riga. Despite being one of the lesser-visited cities in Europe, it’s also one of the most beautiful. With plenty of jaw-dropping art nouveau buildings, free activities and fantastic nightlife, more and more people are starting to visit the Latvian capital.
After spending just a few days in the city recently, I fell in love with its unique charm. It’s truly a city like no other and in my opinion, it’s hugely underrated! Here are 12 reasons why Riga is absolutely worth visiting this year.
Riga is the birthplace of the world’s first decorated Christmas Tree
Although there seems to be some disagreement between the baltic states, legend has it, the world’s first decorated Christmas tree was in Riga in 1510. Nowadays, a beautifully decorated tree is placed in Riga Town Hall Square every year and the city is a popular place to visit during the festive period. Riga comes alive with Christmas markets, decorations and an amazing atmosphere that offers festive cheer!
Beautiful art nouveau architecture
If you love architecture, Riga is absolutely worth visiting! In fact, I’ll go as far as to say that Riga is one of the best places to see in the world to admire beautiful buildings.
One of the most prominent architectural styles is art nouveau. While you will see these buildings scattered all across the city (especially in the old town), a number of these impressive buildings are located on the same street – Alberta Iela Street. Here you will see exteriors adorned with sculptures, unique windows and statues.
This area of Riga is also home to the Art Nouveau building – a museum showcasing the stunning interiors of one of these homes. For just €5, you’ll get an incredible insight into art nouveau architecture in Riga. As well as sharing more information about popular buildings in the city, you’ll get to wander around the apartment which exhibits stunning interiors in this world-famous style. In my opinion, this is definitely one of the best things to do in Riga!
A charming old town
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Riga is worth visiting for its old town alone. Back in 1997, the city’s old town gained world heritage status due to its unique display of art nouveau architecture. With so many incredible buildings and beautiful churches, it isn’t hard to see why.
It’s home to the largest market in Europe
Located a 10 (ish) minute walk from the old town, Riga Central Market is a must-do. Not only is it a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat, but it’s also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its history
As the largest market in Europe, travellers and locals alike visit to purchase local goods, try Latvian food or buy ingredients for cooking. Across the market, you can buy things such as Latvian amber jewellery, craft beers and locally made spices.
It’s a very budget-friendly city
If you are hoping to travel cheaply, you’re in luck! Riga (and Latvia as a whole) is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe. While you can definitely spend a lot more, you can easily spend a weekend in Riga for approximately £150. That even includes flights and two nights’ accommodation (if you don’t mind staying in a hostel). Just keep an eye out on Skyscanner for cheap flights or do regular searches on Ryanair!
Riga is very safe
Travelling solo? Don’t fret! Riga is one of the safest cities in Europe. Crime rates against tourists and locals are rather low, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t remain vigilant. Saying that, I travelled alone as a woman and there was no point in Riga that I felt unsafe. Even when I was walking alone late at night. As always, just use your common sense and there is no need to worry.
Read more: Solo travel pros and cons you NEED to consider
It’s easy to get around
Most of the popular tourist attractions in Riga are situated within walking distance of each other. This means you can easily get around on foot without spending a penny on public transport. If you’re travelling on a budget, that’s obviously super helpful! It’s also ideal if you want to squeeze in as much sightseeing as possible because you don’t need to rely on transportation.
An amazing nightlife
Like many cities in Europe, the Latvian capital boasts fantastic nightlife. With many great bars in Riga, travellers from far and wide hit up the pubs and clubs to enjoy cheap beer, live music and delicious cocktails.
There is something for everyone be that cheap student bars, karaoke bars or more high-end establishments. It just depends on what kind of night out you are looking for!
If you enjoy trying local drinks while travelling, you’ll want to test out some Black Balsam. This traditional Latvian liquor has a unique taste and can be enjoyed either on its own or in a cocktail. Personally, I opted for a couple of Black Balsam cocktails at a well-loved bar. Black Magic in Riga’s Old Town is one of the city’s most unique bars and 100% worth a visit while you’re in the area!
The city is full of art
Lovers of art will be in their element in Riga. Not only is the city bursting with impressive buildings, but it is also home to a number of great art galleries. Some of the most visited include the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design and Riga Bourse. A lot of these fantastic art museums are situated within walking distance of each other, making it super easy to have a day filled with art if that’s what you enjoy!
There are great options for day trips
There are a number of amazing day trips from Riga which means you can easily check out more destinations in Latvia during your visit. This is especially true if your trip is for three days or more.
If you’re visiting during Summer (or at least shoulder season), it’s easy to visit Jurmala Beach. It takes less than an hour to get there from Riga’s Old Town via public transport. Here you can spend a day soaking up the sun, enjoying the white sandy beaches and relaxing with a cocktail or two.
Another popular day trip amongst travellers is the town of Cesis. This medieval town is known for its historical castle which dates all the way back to 1214. Additionally, other highly rated things to do in Cesis include Cesis History and Art Museum and Gauja National Park.
The journey duration to Cesis varies, but typically it will be between 90 minutes and two and a half hours depending on your chosen method of transportation.
Travelling to Cesis on a tour is also a fantastic option if you want to explore the area with minimal planning. Some of the very best Cesis day trip tours include:
It’s full of beautiful parks
Parks are wonderful places to take a break, do some people-watching or go for a stroll. Riga boasts some beautiful parks which are 100% a must-see for nature lovers. The centrally located Bastejkalna Park is easy to visit, especially if you are staying near the Freedom Monument in the old town. During the colder months, the park turns into a winter wonderland often covered in a layer of snow. How cute!
Spa days are very popular in Riga
Looking to relax during your city break? Then Riga is well worth visiting! The city is known for its spa days, offering visitors treatments and access to dreamy facilities. Across the city centre and beyond, there are a number of highly-rated spas such as Taka Spa, ESPA Riga and Elisange Spa. Prices vary greatly depending on the types of treatments you’re looking to enjoy, but many of the spas offer package deals.
FAQs about visiting Riga, Latvia:
Is Riga a beautiful city?
Oh, absolutely! The array of colourful buildings and green spaces in Riga makes it stand out when compared to other European cities!
Is Riga a good city break?
With so many amazing city break options in Europe, it’s often difficult to decide where to head. This means that Riga often flies under the radar in favour of more popular spots like Paris, London or Milan.
However, the Latvian capital is an amazing place for a city break! Riga boasts culture, unique history and A LOT of charm. Not only that, but as I’ve mentioned already, it’s possible to explore Riga on a budget. You’ll spend a lot less in Riga compared to many of the top cities across the continent.
How many days in Riga is enough?
For most people, two or three days in Riga will be enough to check out the city’s hot spots, experience the nightlife and get a feel for the city. However, if you’d like to head out on some day trips, stay a little longer.
To conclude, is Riga worth visiting?
Riga is 100% worth visiting for at least a few days. Especially if you enjoy budget travel, have a passion for art or want to admire the incredible architecture. If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall in love with Riga the moment you arrive. It’s totally worth the journey!
So, is Riga worth visiting in your opinion? Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Mauriece Graham
Love Riga – met my wife of almost 25 years there in February 1999. We visit almost every year as we still have family in Riga.
Lauren Allen
Mauriece GrahamAwww I love this so much – what a lovely comment! Thank you for sharing 🙂