Why visit Riga?
Riga demands attention for its uncompromising Art Nouveau district, where the facade of Alberta iela serves as a dizzying masterclass in ornate, grotesque masonry. Navigate the winding cobblestones of Vecrīga to find the Swedish Gate, an 18th-century relic that once functioned as a passage for soldiers, now leading into a quiet maze of medieval merchant houses. The city’s pulse shifts dramatically at the Riga Central Market, housed within repurposed Zeppelin hangars, where the scent of smoked sprats and pickled forest mushrooms permeates the air. It is a place that feels physically tethered to its complex Baltic past, yet remains unpretentious and strikingly tactile.
Culinary exploration here centers on grounding, hearty fare. Visit Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs to pair local dark rye bread and Latvian honey beer with a plate of pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, the signature dish of grey peas and fried bacon. For a lighter touch, seek out a slice of Sklandrausis, a carrot-filled rye pastry that honors regional heritage. Spend an afternoon at the National Library of Latvia, a modern monolith standing in sharp relief against the historic skyline, before capping the evening at a darkened bar in the Miera iela neighborhood, where the local devotion to craft spirits is absolute.
Plan your Riga trip with Tony AI
Tony AI creates personalized day-by-day itineraries based on your budget, travel style and interests. No more hours of research — get your perfect Riga plan in seconds.
Book your Riga trip
Everything for your Riga trip
Book flights, stays, tours and more — all in one place
More options: Kiwi.com · Oojo · seats.aero · Arangrant · eSky · lastminute.com · Megabon · QEEQ · AutoEurope · Hertz · GetTransfer · Suntransfers · Saily · Yesim · GigSky · Klook · EF Ultimate Break · EF Adventures · AirHelp Plus · CruiseDirect · Travelpro
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Popular experiences in Riga
The things travellers book most here. You pay the same price as booking direct.
Top tours & activities in Riga
Rent a car in Riga
Compare rental cars from local and international companies, with free cancellation on most bookings.
Compare car rentals in Riga