Riga is the capital and largest city of Latvia, with a population of around 600,000, making it home to nearly a third of the country’s total population. This gives you an idea of just how compact and manageable Latvia is as a travel destination. Below, I share the top 6 things to do in Riga to inspire your next adventure!
Latvia receives approximately 2 million international tourists annually, whereas the city of Paris attracts around 30–40 million visitors per year. While Riga may not be one of Europe’s heavy hitters like France, Italy, or Spain, it offers plenty for travelers seeking a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path experience.
A Brief Look at Latvia’s History
Latvia has a long and turbulent history of occupation and struggle for independence. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by Sweden, Poland, and—most notably—Russia. After gaining independence following World War I in 1918, Latvia was annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940, then occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II, and subsequently re-annexed by the Soviets in 1944.
Latvia remained under Soviet control until the peaceful Singing Revolution (yes singing), a series of demonstrations across the Baltic states that led to Latvia’s full independence in 1991. That wasn’t so long ago! In 2004, Latvia joined both NATO and the European Union, and it has since continued to thrive as an independent, peaceful nation.
Cultural Fun Fact
One of Latvia’s current cultural highlights is the animated film “Flow”, which won an Oscar in 2024. The film was inspired by Riga’s famous cat statues and the city’s fondness for cats in general, which can be spotted throughout its streets and architecture.
Local Insights
According to a local Latvian tour guide, you might find that Latvians are not quick to smile at strangers. In Latvian culture, smiling at people you don’t know can seem odd or confusing, as it’s reserved more for personal interactions. So don’t take it personally—Latvia may not be outwardly friendly in the way some other cultures are, but it more than makes up for it with natural beauty, rich history, and quiet charm.
1. Free Walking Tour
One of the best ways to get to know a city’s history and culture is through a free walking tour. These tours are typically led by passionate local guides who offer authentic insights into the place they call home.
Riga has its own local Free Walking Tours, separate from larger platforms like GuruWalk. You can choose from a variety of themed options depending on your interests—explore the charming Old Town, delve into the gritty past of Soviet Riga, hop on a bike tour, or experience the city’s darker side with a ghost tour. A great way to get oriented, learn something new, and support local guides—all for a tip-based price.
2. Walk around Medieval Old Town
The heart of Riga is its Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of charm and character. Wander the cobblestone streets, surrounded by centuries of history—colorful facades, medieval architecture, and hidden courtyards that you can explore. Today, the area is vibrant and lively, filled with cozy cafés, unique shops, local restaurants, and impressive landmarks like the House of the Blackheads and St. Peter’s Church.
Also within this historic setting is also a modern three-story shopping mall, offering a blend of old-world atmosphere and contemporary convenience.
3. Go to Riga Central Market
Just a short walk from Old Town—literally across the street and through a tunnel—you’ll find the Riga Central Market, one of the most impressive and largest markets in the Baltic region. Housed in massive converted Zeppelin hangars, this UNESCO-listed site is both an architectural and cultural highlight.
Inside, you’ll discover hundreds of vendors selling everything from fresh produce, local meats, and seafood to clothing, handmade gifts, and street food. There’s also a food hall area where you can grab a bite and soak up the atmosphere. This is where locals come to do their everyday shopping, making it a great place to observe Riga’s daily life. On a sunny day, it’s a lively, authentic experience that offers much more than just shopping.
4. Eat Traditional Latvian Food
Latvian food just like the rest of the Baltic countries has some very unique food that reflects the produce that was able to grow in the region.
Some of the highlights are:
- Grey peas, the national dish of Latvia. Traditionally served on Christmas, but you can find them at restaurants across the city.
- Pelmeni, they are of Russian origin, although they are found all over Latvia and have become a staple. They are a variety of dumpling that can be filled with meat, fish, or mushrooms, served with sour cream and vinegar on the side.
- Smoked fish, this comes at no surprise since Latvia borders the Baltic Sea, fish are found through the region and is a fixed menu item. You can also find it prepared in different methods like pickled, but smoked is my personal favorite.
- Cold beet soup, this iconic soup can be found all over the Baltics. Lithuania claims it a bit more, but Latvia’s version is just as traditional and delicious! Made from fermented milk, beets, dill, cucumber, and topped with a boiled egg.
- Rye bread, this is a emblematic of this region. Usually served as a side or with most meals. It is heartier and denser than regular bread, while also being more nutritious.
5. Walk Along the Daugava River
Take a break from the city and walk along the Daugava River, which runs through the heart of Riga, Latvia. This scenic riverside offers a peaceful escape with wide pedestrian paths, leafy parks, and views of the Old Town’s bridges. In the spring/summer it is gorgeous. Whether you’re catching the sunrise shimmering on the water or enjoying an evening stroll as the city lights reflect on the surface, the Daugava River walk is a perfect blend of nature and urban charm. Benches, cafes, and historical monuments along the way invite you to linger and soak in the atmosphere.
6. Museum Hop
Riga has some great museums where you can dive deeper into the history that happened here. From the Ghetto Museum, which tells the poignant stories of the city’s Jewish community during World War II, to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, which offers a powerful look at life under Soviet and Nazi regimes, each site provides a vivid window into the city’s complex past.
The Latvian War Museum explores the nation’s military history, while the Riga Art Nouveau Museum showcases the city’s unique architectural heritage. If you’re interested in political history, culture, or art, Riga’s museums offer compelling insights into the events and people that have shaped Latvia.
These were my top 6 things to do in Riga, Latvia from my experience. Would you add anything else?
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